by Debbee | Sep 7, 2018 | Iceland
Exploring the magnificent north’s Diamond Circle to see a width breadth of nature’s masterpieces, during our 10-day Iceland Journey.
North Iceland is a wonderland of volcanic activity, snow-capped peaks, quaint harbors, beautiful fjords, bays populated by whales and puffins — and yes, even more epic waterfalls to amaze!
When I left you in Glaciers and Icebergs, we had headed deep into Iceland’s Wilderness on an off-road adventure. The next morning we drove north to rejoin the main Ring Road.
Our intention was to refuel, grab breakfast to go, and provisions for a picnic lunch. But, between the rain and distraction, we totally missed Eglilsstardir, the only town our way to Dettitoss Waterfall. We should have turned back once we realized our mistake. It was a long day on empty stomachs, but plenty of delicious meals were to come.
A geologist’s dream Iceland Journey lay ahead, with one amazing sight and experience after another!
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by Debbee | Aug 28, 2018 | Iceland
Continuing on our Iceland vacation, spending two days exploring the Southeast and it’s otherworldly glaciers and blue ice-filled lagoons.
Oh, and more wondrous waterfalls and cascades too numerous to count! There’s also stark deltas of grey glacial sand, coastal vistas, sheep and horses grazing on both sides of the road, and cloud-cloaked mountains.
Civilization and towns are far and few between. Beds here are in great demand and require booking far in advance.
But, there are an amazing array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and a smorgasbord of tour offerings. Destinations are so numerous, you simply can’t do it all. Be sure to do your research, constructing and pacing an Iceland vacation itinerary.
Start with the driving time between accommodations, map sites along the way, allow necessary time to enjoy activities and excursions, and include time for provisioning and eating. Then, add some buffer into your schedule for spontaneous discoveries. You’ll need to book popular excursions in advance and work them into the itinerary. Weather (rain) and driving conditions may cause delays, so always have a plan B.
Our itinerary included must-do’s and short lists of optional stops, activities and places to eat. Bundle up and put on your hiking boots.
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by Debbee | Aug 17, 2018 | Iceland
I’m really excited to share our recent family vacation — an incredible 10-day adventure to the land of the midnight sun. While most of the planet was in the grip of a summer heatwave, we were pretty cool and comfortable on an Iceland trip.
In Alice in Wonderland, Unbirthday Party, I explained that my husband and I were both celebrating big-0 birthdays this year. Later this fall, we will also mark a big-5 wedding anniversary.To honor these milestones, our sons arranged a 10-day family vacation. They presented the surprise Iceland trip, transportation details, travel route and accommodations to us in the late spring. That allowed plenty of time to plan and eagerly anticipate the journey using a gift package of maps and books.
And, believe you me, traveling over 900 miles around the entire country of Iceland takes lots of pre-planning.
Come along now, on the first couple of days on our incredible Iceland trip, We start our exploration of the land of fire and ice in the Golden Circle, and continue along the Southwestern Coast.
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by Debbee | May 7, 2018 | Seville, Spain
Today I’m taking you with me back to seductive Seville, the capital of southern Spain ‘s Andalusian region.
Last fall, my husband and I had a fabulous two-day stay there during See Spectacular Spain in September. I had originally planned to highlight each town or city we visited. So far, however, I’ve only gotten around to posting, Remarkable Ronda Gorge.
Seville is known for its rich history, fabulous architecture and authentic culture that includes tapas tasting and Flamenco dancing. In additional to Seville’s historical core, are charming neighborhoods, bars, markets, and a riverfront to explore. Must-sees include the cathedral, the Plaza de Espana, and the Real (royal) Alcazar palace and gardens.
Recent Exotic Peacock Tablescape and Pretty Peacock Invitation posts, reminded me of seeing the birds strolling those Arabic Gardens.
Before we can visit the Real Alcazar, I have to introduce you to seductive Seville in the way our visit there enfolded.
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by Debbee | Mar 19, 2018 | Easter, Pittsburgh
It was depressingly cold outside, when I saw the feature in Sunday’s newspaper on the start of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens spring flower show.
Hubby was game, and suggested we go out to eat too. So after dragging ourselves to the gym, we came home, showered and headed downtown for a lovely brunch and afternoon among flowers.
As a holiday present to ourselves, we recently joined Phipps as members. As I discussed in Christmas Card from Old Quebec City, Mr. Buzz and I decided to give each other experiences rather than things this year.
Our first visit as members was just prior to New Years, taking you with us in the post, Magical Phipps Winter Flower & Light Show. In retrospect, it was a lot colder, actually frigid then.
Come with us on an impromptu, lovely way to ward off the winter blues. (more…)
by Debbee | Feb 23, 2018 | Ronda
Ronda is a mountaintop city in Spain set dramatically above the El Tajo gorge. An incredible stone bridge spans the deep ravine. separating Ronda’s 15th-century ‘new’ town from its old Moorish section.
I had never heard of Ronda until reading through the itinerary for Tauck’s Week in Spain tour. A trip we took this past fall. I briefly described Ronda in an overview of our ten-day Iberian vacation in, See Spectacular Spain in September.
Ronda is built astride a huge gash in the mountains carved out by the Río Guadalevín. It is one of the oldest towns in Spain. Built on two separate cliffs, Ronda is connected by the most famous bridge in Spain. Even though it was built in the 18th century, it is known as “The New Bridge.” Old is really, old in Ronda. Think Caesar old!
Often appearing on lists of not-to-be-missed Spanish towns, Ronda is described as one of the most beautiful and visited cities in all of Andalucía. And, despite arriving with high expectations, Ronda did not disappoint. The views took my breath away. And the strong breeze nearly took my hat too! (more…)
