Buenos Noche Mis Amigos

Hola Everyone...

So.. I have landed in Madrid.. it is quite an amazing place... but before I get to that, let me fill you in on a few incredible things..

Versaille...

Oh my goodness... the "backyard" view of Versaille is absolutely amazing - breathtaking... I mean seriously, it is a painting. I was mesmorized for at least a solid hour especially with the sun setting over the water, trees and fountains... WOW. Also, in Versaille, I managed to sneak my way into this closed building, that was unique in itself, once inside, I stumbled upon this small orchrestra playing violins, chellos, percussion, etc... as well as singing this amazing french opera like tune. I couldn´t believe my ears...

Bordeaux

Ok.. I am hooked on Bordeaux wine... delicious red wine! And I learned quite alot from Martin, my british wine conosouir. The sweetest wines are from Barsac and Sauternes, the southern part of the left bank and the plummier wines are from the right bank, such as Canon Fronsac and Saint Emilion. Also, for you wine lovers, Bordeaux Merlot and Cabernet Franc is from the Right Bank and Cabernet Sauvignon is from the left bank, but all Bordeaux are a mix of either one or two of them and they are named from their Chateau, not the grape used. My favorite was a toss up between the Chateau Mongravey from Margaux which is the upper left bank, and this is the kind of wine you let sit in your cellar for years and years! Also, the Grand Cure Classe - Chateau Berliquet was also amazing, from Saint Emilion. And apparently it famous throughout. By the way, Mom...Martin swears by Ranch Shaffer Chardonnay (Red Chill de Ranch)...

Madrid

Ok, first let me tell you that I took the night train. Very interesting and actually quite comfortable. I mean, it´s no 1st Class Virgin Atlantic, but still quite nice. I was in the top bunk of 3 tier bunk next to another 3 tier bunk in one smally room... it was quite cozy.. I met a lovely, quiet guy from Bolgaria and the other roommies we picked up along the way.

Madrid itself is pretty cool... Thanks to Fernando, a lovely gentelman from Peru that is living here getting his masters in Forgein Affairs, i managed to see alot of Madrid. We went to the Jardines de Sabatini (Gardens of Sabatini), Palace del King, Museo de Prado, Parque del Retiro which is MUY BONITA!! There is this amazing lake in the middle with little cafes surrounding it and paddle boats. Not to mention the scenerary throughout. But wow.. HACE FRIO!! COLD here and rainy! We also took in the lovely sights of Puerta del Sol (center of Madrid) and Plaza Mayor. Plaza Mayor has very cool. Has little street vendors throughout the square and they were selling American money for 5 times the price... Hysterical! And there was an amazing boycott today. The Spanish Union protesting against companies to be treated better with more money, etc. Even little kids were waving flags. Amazing...

And on a friendly note... I met my friend Pam here in Madrid... so much fun to see a friendly face. We enjoyed and delicious lunch today at the Ritz Hotel and are heading off to see a Bull Fight tonight. (I hope I can handle it, I think they actually kill the bull at these ones... oh boy)

Anywho... hope all is well you all... Miss you!