Mother-Daughter Inspirations: Stonehenge Secrets and Spain Spirits
We budgeted and planned for our next trip to England and Spain.
The Christmas vacation provides both my daughter and me with a long break, and after spending the holiday with my husband, we leave him happily at home with football and the dog.
We face a new travel challenge: visiting two countries within a 10-day itinerary.
The most exciting part of travel is experiencing the first introduction to a city or country, as we realized during our previous trip to England. The challenge, especially with curious high schoolers, is never having enough time or budget to explore everything at once.
England called us back after two years. While perfect for middle and high school students getting their first taste of international travel, it’s also a place that rewards return visits.
Our familiarity with London now gave us the confidence to dig deeper, venture further.
Our theme has evolved from ancient stones to royal residences.
Lucy Worsley, the quirky historian, had captured our imagination with her whimsical tales of royal palaces and the stories within their walls. We trace a path from London’s grand palaces to the mysterious Stonehenge.
Why Spain?
Barcelona and Madrid are classic picks for first-time travelers to Spain.
Barcelona brings a Mediterranean vibe, while Madrid showcases the heart of the country as its capital. While both cities offer their unique attractions, they each contribute to Spain’s rich tapestry of history, art, and culture.
Since it was our first time in Spain, we chose to work with a local travel agency listed among Zicasso’s recommended agents, allowing us to have a customized tour plan tailored to our interests.
For high schoolers with a few years of Spanish under their belt, Spain offers a golden opportunity to transform classroom learning into real-world confidence.
My daughter’s years of Spanish immersion gave her a head start, but any high school Spanish student can find their voice here.
It’s rewarding watching your child light up when they successfully navigate their first real Spanish conversation or solve a problem using their language skills.
Exploring Majesty, Innovation, and Ancient Wonders
We are staying in the Kensington area of London.
It’s our arrival day and we have most of the afternoon and early evening to get going.
The location puts us close to Kensington Palace and Gardens and the Science Museum.
London is a great walking city, where residents and tourists alike are kept aware of its heritage through Blue Plaques. This long-standing historical tradition, run by English Heritage, as their website states, “celebrates the links between notable figures of the past and the buildings in which they lived and worked.”
Hunting for Blue Plaques becomes a natural treasure hunt as you explore the city with your daughter, turning each discovery into a moment of historical connection. You might stumble upon John Lennon’s former home in central London, or search English Heritage’s records to track down a favorite author, artist, or person of historical significance.
A few doors down from our hotel is a Blue Plaque for the actress Dame Ellen Terry.
Not everyone will “oh and ah.” Certainly not my daughter. A polite shrug.
Maybe just me and other theater history buffs. Dame Terry was the greatest actress of her time in the early 20th century.
The Ampersand Hotel Science Afternoon Tea
Our Science Afternoon Tea is just perfect for our London arrival.
It’s fun and delicious.
A prelude to our Science Museum venture a block away. Beautiful Christmas lights and atmosphere is everywhere.
The Science Museum in London, with its imposing Edwardian architecture, stands as a testament to Britain’s enduring respect for scientific achievement.
While tickets are free, I strongly suggest reserving an entry time. Even with our late-afternoon slot, the museum was crowded, though viewing remained manageable. The constantly changing exhibits span galleries dedicated to engineering, flight, mathematics, energy and more.
It was my daughter’s pick, and with something to interest everyone, including IMAX movies, an ideal place to explore and learn together.
Because we had arrived that day and were tired, we didn’t spend as much time as we could have. For the budding scientist daughter allow at least 2 hours.
Day 2 – London
And as with everything in London at Christmas time, the palace too looks spectacular.
Stepping into Kensington Palace feels like entering two worlds—one where modern royals live in their private apartments within the palace complex, and another where centuries of royal history come alive for visitors.
A lot of what many of us know about the monarchy comes from television and film. From The Crown to Victoria and various historical dramas, these portrayals offer a captivating glimpse into royal life, reminding us that entertainment can be a valuable way to engage with and understand history.
It’s a great way to introduce your daughter to the historical background before a trip, as these series not only captivate with their storytelling but also provide context that enriches her understanding of the places and events you’ll encounter.”
The palace always features a rotating exhibition. During our visit, we had the chance to see an iconic collection of Princess Diana’s wardrobe, showcasing some of her most memorable outfits.
It was fascinating to see how her style evolved to reflect her role as both a royal and a global icon, bridging fashion and history.
A highlight was exploring Queen Victoria’s childhood rooms beautifully recreated to show her life before becoming queen. Seeing how she lived as a young girl, growing up in the palace under the weight of royal expectations, added a personal layer to her story.
We arrived early. While it wasn’t overly crowded, it was mesmerizing to wander through these grand rooms, each one elegant and steeped in history.
We didn’t take a guided tour, as each room was filled with an abundance of explanatory information. Additionally, the influence of Lucy Worsley’s fame as a historian can be seen in the next generation of young female historians, who served as informative guides in the rooms.
A bonus of Christmas travel is that in the magnificent Cupola Room, we hear Christmas music from the Victorian era.
Spend at least an hour and a half at the Palace, which felt just right to take it all in without rushing. There’s an entry fee. Tickets can be purchased ahead.
After Kensington Palace, we strolled around to fully embrace the history and charm of the Kensington area. With vibrant streets, delightful shops, and world-class museums—all within walking distance—we were excited to explore!
Without everything planned down to the minute, we discovered a newfound benefit in spontaneity. One of the highlights of strolling through the Kensington area is the abundance of free museums, particularly the Victoria and Albert Museum—a true gem for art and design lovers.
Entering the grand foyer, we were captivated by its stunning architecture and impressive range of exhibits.
While special exhibits may require an entry fee and timed tickets, we were grateful to explore the main galleries at no cost. We enjoyed wandering through, marveling at everything from intricate fashion pieces and exquisite ceramics to stunning sculptures and historical artifacts.
Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend quality time, the Victoria and Albert Museum is a must-visit.
We stop for a light lunch at the V&A’s exquisite Garden Café. Aside from its beautifully designed 19th-century period room, it’s historical significance is the first restaurant opened in a museum.
Just like visitors over the centuries, my daughter and I discuss what we’ve seen and enjoyed during our morning Kensington tour. I love hearing her perspective.
The British Museum is one of those places that feels almost impossible to see in one visit. With over 8 million artifacts spanning thousands of years, exhibitions, and interactive experiences, it’s a treasure trove of human history. But since time was limited, we focused on a few highlights that aligned with my daughter’s interests in languages, myths, and history.
We started with the iconic Rosetta Stone. Standing in front of it, surrounded by a curious crowd, it was amazing to think how this single artifact unlocked the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.
My daughter was fascinated by the idea that one stone could bridge such a massive gap in understanding between civilizations.
From there, we headed into the Egyptian galleries, where myths and mummies bring the ancient world to life.
One display drew a particularly large crowd—a mummy with the nameplate Cleopatra. Naturally, the name caught everyone’s attention, but this wasn’t the Cleopatra VII, the famous queen whose burial site remains a mystery. This Cleopatra was a woman from Roman Egypt, living centuries later.
Still, seeing an actual mummy and imagining her life added a human connection to a culture often viewed as distant or mysterious.
Next, we moved on to the Greek galleries. The sculptures from the Parthenon immediately pulled us in. Athena, Poseidon, and other figures seemed to leap out from the marble, frozen in the middle of their myths.
For my daughter, it was a chance to connect stories she already knew—like the adventures of Hercules or Athena’s wisdom—to the actual artifacts that inspired them.
The craftsmanship was breathtaking, and it was incredible to see how these ancient stories are still so vivid today.
Of course, no museum visit is complete without a trip to the gift shop, and the British Museum’s shop is one of our favorites we’ve visited. With its unique collection and excellent selection of books, it feels like an extension of the museum itself.
My daughter loved browsing items that tied directly to what we’d just explored, from mythology books to Egyptian-inspired jewelry.
Even after two hours, we had only scratched the surface of what the museum has to offer.
For my daughter and any student, it is a chance to experience artifacts and stories that capture far more than any history textbook ever could.
We know we’ll be back one day to discover more.
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of those landmarks you can’t miss—literally. Its massive dome is a fixture in the London skyline, and the interior is equally magnificent.
Daily tours walk you through the cathedral’s history and stunning design, but for something a little more personal and immersive, try attending one of their ecumenical worship services.
It’s a peaceful way to soak in the beauty and spirit of the space, even if you’re not particularly religious.
We attended the 5:00 p.m. Evensong service, a beautiful tradition featuring choral music inspired by the Book of Common Prayer. Whether it’s the world-class St. Paul’s Choir, the boys’ choir, or soloists, their voices fill the cathedral with moving renditions of prayers, psalms, and canticles.
The service lasts about 45 minutes, and if you’re planning to attend, it’s thoughtful to bring some cash for the exit offering.
Day 3
Stonehenge: Our Big England Experience
During our planning for the second trip to England, Stonehenge became the centerpiece of our adventure. This iconic site represented not just a destination but a chance to delve into its ancient mysteries and uncover its eternal ‘whys’ and ‘how’s.’
Months in advance of our Christmas trip, we prioritized looking for Stonehenge tours and discovered the perfect early access option. We also received a recommendation for a driver who would pick us up in London at 4:30 a.m. to ensure a smooth journey to this remarkable site.”
Our early morning special access tour began in the dark car park, where our guide greeted us and introduced his special guest, an archaeoastronomer whose passion for the site’s cosmic significance set the tone for the morning. With a flashlight to light our way, we joined a small group of 20 on the quiet path toward the stones.
As the sun slowly rose, the outlines of a nearby field of sheep came into view, adding to the serene atmosphere. We were allowed to step right up to the stones—an experience off-limits to regular visitors—and listen as our guide shared the site’s fascinating history and its celestial alignments. He also led us to other parts of the surrounding fields, areas normally closed to the public, giving us a broader sense of the landscape’s significance.
We had private access to the site and its surrounding area for over two hours. By the time we returned to the now-open visitor center, the tour buses had arrived, and swaths of tourists were lining up to walk past the stones we had just stood beside in quiet reflection.
I had visited Stonehenge years before, but it wasn’t until this special visit that I truly grasped the depth of its mystery and significance.
My daughter’s curiosity and desire to understand the site on a deeper level inspired me to plan and budget for this unique experience.
Watching and listening to her questions evolve throughout our travels highlights the joy of exploring the world together.
Her one-on-one conversation with the archaeoastronomer, made the trip truly priceless. It became more than just seeing the stones; it was about sharing in her journey of discovery and wonder.
Those moments of exploration are what make traveling with my daughter so exciting and rewarding.
After our time at Stonehenge, we loaded into a van to continue exploring the surrounding area. Our guide took us to nearby sites with their own historical significance—places where ancient stones still stood and hinted at the mysteries of life thousands of years ago.
We were lucky enough to join the final tour of our particular guide, a figure well-known in both the academic and local Stonehenge community after 35 years of sharing his expertise and passion.
If you’re planning your own visit, I encourage you to search for early morning access tours for an unforgettable experience. Of course, there are multiple ways to explore Stonehenge, even without a 6 a.m. start!
Just a short ride from Stonehenge, Salisbury offers a glimpse into England’s rich history while thriving as a vibrant modern town. By late morning, our van drops most of us off in the heart of this charming town.
Salisbury is the perfect blend of quintessential English charm and a gateway to history, with its medieval streets, bustling markets, and the stunning Salisbury Cathedral housing the Magna Carta.
Although we had seen one of the four original Magna Carta documents in Washington, D.C., we were eager to view another of the four surviving originals at Salisbury Cathedral. Unfortunately, during our visit, we discovered that the display case had been vandalized, and the document was temporarily unavailable for viewing.
The Magna Carta at Salisbury Cathedral has been beautifully restored and is now safely displayed once again, a testament to its enduring significance and careful preservation.
Conveniently, Salisbury’s railway station provides an easy return to London, making it an ideal stop on any journey through southern England.
One of the best things about staying in the Kensington area is that Harrods and their fantastic food hall is close.
I am a cake fanatic. Love it. And Harrod’s has some of the best cake slice varieties I’ve ever had.
My daughter is not keen on cake. But she lovingly allows my conscience to buy double slices for us. She isn’t going to have a slice but gets a great looking cookie.
Our day ends with a take-out dinner items and cake.
Day 4
Our early access tour of the Tower of London began in the crisp morning light, gathering with a small group led by a London historian. The historian gives an informative and thorough background of the palace and tower.
Once through the gates the experience kicked off with an entertaining and lively talk by one of the Tower’s iconic Yeoman Warders, or “Beefeaters.” With their striking uniforms and centuries of tradition, these ceremonial guards are an integral part of the Tower’s character.
The Yeoman Warder’s humor and commanding presence set the tone for a fascinating exploration of this historic landmark.
One of the highlights was seeing the Royal Crown Jewels up close. We had an easier viewing experience thanks to the early access, and this is the true showstopper of the tour. Patience is key to fully enjoying this remarkable exhibit.
The dazzling display of these national treasures, with their intricate craftsmanship and sheer opulence, felt almost surreal. For most of us, this is the closest we’ll ever come to such grandeur, even if they are protected behind impenetrable glass.
Meanwhile, my daughter found herself captivated by the Tower’s resident ravens, their eerie presence steeped in legend. It’s said that if the ravens ever leave, the Tower—and the kingdom—will fall. This mix of grandeur and myth made the experience entertaining.
I highly recommend any early access tours with guides when visiting the Tower. Not only do they help you avoid the crowds, but they also offer invaluable insights into the Tower’s rich history and intricate details that you might miss otherwise. A guide brings the stories to life, adding depth and context that truly enhance the experience.
After our visit to the Tower of London, we made our way across the Thames for an afternoon tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. The tour offered a fascinating look into the history and workings of this iconic space and is especially great for teens who love theater, as the behind-the-scenes truly bring the experience to life.
Just a few blocks away is London’s oldest market, Borough Market. It was quite crowded and overwhelming, not just with tourists but also with Londoners working in nearby offices.
I wish I had researched which stalls or places to prioritize. We settled on some delicious seafood wraps, but the wait in line was long. It’s still worth the visit.
In the evening, we returned to the Globe for a performance of Macbeth. The production was captivating, drawing us into the dark and tragic world of the Scottish play.
Apparently, the winter and summer theater setups, with hard, small, and cramped seating, was designed to evoke the experience of an Elizabethan audience. While the seating wasn’t exactly comfortable, it added an unforgettable layer to the evening.
On our gift shop scale of 1 to 5, the Globe’s shop earns a solid 5. It’s packed with unique Shakespearean treasures, from books and memorabilia to quirky souvenirs, making it a must-visit for theater enthusiasts.
Mother -Daughter Barcelona Journey
Day 5 – Barcelona
Fresh off our flight and eager to dive into Barcelona, we jumped into our first planned activity: a guided bike ride through the city and along the harbor. It was a suggestion from our travel agency that seemed perfect on paper—an easy, breezy way to get our bearings and soak up the sights.
The reality? A little less dreamy.
The harbor concourse was jam-packed with tourists, mostly from the flotilla of cruise ships docked nearby. What was meant to be a scenic ride quickly turned into an obstacle course as we dodged crowds at every turn. The rental bikes didn’t help—they wobbled and creaked like they’d seen better days, adding to the challenge.
Things took a turn when a group of German tourists suddenly blocked my daughter’s path. She shouted for them to move, but the language barrier left them oblivious. Unable to swerve in time and not wanting to hit anyone, she went down hard.
Our guide, far ahead and seemingly absorbed in her own ride, had no idea what had happened. We managed to get my daughter to a pharmacy, where we picked up ice packs and wraps for her ankle. With the massive crowds making every step (and pedal) feel like a challenge, we decided to call it a day and cut the bike tour short. And any further touring with the guide.
After a much-needed rest at the hotel following our eventful bike ride, my daughter managed to hobble her way to the Picasso Museum. Thankfully, it was open until 7 p.m., a reminder of how museums and activities in Spain tend to start later and stay open later than we’re used to in the U.S. or even England.
The museum is small but captivating, showcasing an extensive collection of Picasso’s early works, some dating back to his childhood. It’s fascinating to see the progression of his talent, from his beginnings as a prodigious young artist to the revolutionary figure he became. Barcelona played a pivotal role in shaping Picasso’s identity as an artist, and this connection is palpable throughout the exhibits.
Visiting the museum felt like a fitting way to end our day, surrounded by the legacy of one of Spain’s most celebrated artistic son.
If you find yourself in Barcelona, the Picasso Museum is absolutely worth your time for its intimate and insightful look into the evolution of one of Spain’s most iconic artists, all within the charm of the historic Gothic Quarter.
Day 6 – Barcelona Agriculture Zone and Montserrat
Puerta Del So & Masia Can Viver – Olive Farm
A Surprising Gem: Montserrat and Olive Oil Tastings
One of the joys of travel is stumbling into the unexpected—a hidden gem or a memorable experience you didn’t even know to anticipate.
That’s exactly how we felt heading to Montserrat and an “olive oil tasting” listed on our itinerary. We weren’t entirely sure what to expect, but it was on the schedule, so off we went.
Our guide for the day was Nancy, an American expat and the owner of the travel agency that helped organize our Spain trip. Surprisingly, it was Nancy’s first visit to our olive farm destination.
When we arrived, we were greeted by the charming husband-and-wife owners, the Vivers, of the 9 centuries-old olive farm. Their warmth and hospitality instantly made us feel welcome as they shared the story of their historic home and the surrounding olive groves.
The setting was as picturesque as it was rich with history—an authentic slice of rural Spain.
The Vivers had prepared a lunch for us that was nothing short of extraordinary—some of the best food I’ve ever eaten.
Embarrassingly, I indulged a little too much at the start, not realizing there were multiple courses ahead. It turns out, I was about to experience the Spanish tradition of a long, lingering lunch, where meals are as much about savoring the company and conversation as they are the food.
Adding to the magic of the moment, it was New Year’s Eve afternoon, giving the entire experience a festive and celebratory feel.
When we were lucky enough to visit, the Vivers were still in the early stages of putting together their plans to become part of the growing olive oil tourism scene. They had only hosted a handful of visitors before us, which made the experience feel all the more personal and special.
For my daughter and me, it’s an experience we’ll always remember—spending time with this welcoming family in such a beautiful, historic setting. Their English was limited, but it gave my daughter a chance to put her Spanish to use, which added a fun and meaningful connection to the visit.
I highly recommend adding this experience to your Barcelona itinerary Traveling just outside the city limits to the more rural olive tree countryside offers a refreshing change of pace and a deeper connection to the region’s culture and traditions. It’s a memorable way to see a different side of Spain and savor its natural beauty.
Montserrat and the Black Madonna: A Path of Spiritual and Cultural Significance
After our leisurely lunch at the olive farm, we made our way to Montserrat, a mountain that’s home to one of Catalonia’s most iconic landmarks: the Montserrat Monastery. Perched high on the serrated peaks that give the mountain its name, this centuries-old monastery is a place of profound spirituality and stunning natural beauty.
Known as a place of pilgrimage, Montserrat houses the revered Black Madonna, or La Moreneta.The Black Madonna is tucked inside the basilica, high above the altar in a small alcove that visitors can access by climbing a staircase.
To truly connect with the heart of Catalonia, Montserrat is a journey worth taking. Walking the same path as the countless pilgrims who have come here over the centuries to kneel before the Black Madonna offers not only a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage but also a deeper understanding of the enduring devotion that continues to define this remarkable place.
We were returned to our hotel after a full 10-hour day, tired but fulfilled. The lunch with the Vivers—their warmth, hospitality, and the stories shared around the table—will stay with us forever.
Day 7 – A Gaudi Day: From Awe Inspiring to Overrated
The day begins with our new guide taking us to visit La Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s most iconic masterpiece and a true symbol of Barcelona. While Gaudí’s vision and design laid the foundation for this monumental basilica, its story stretches far beyond his lifetime, intertwining history, devotion, and architectural innovation.
With only a fraction completed at the time of his death in 1926, the basilica continues to evolve, its construction still guided by Gaudí’s meticulous plans. Every part of the architecture, down to the smallest detail, has meaning—each carving, column, and stained-glass window telling a piece of a larger story.
Our guide believed we wanted to hear about every one of them.
After three hours of overwhelming detail, I had to call it. My daughter was fading, and it was time for lunch. Even the most captivating masterpiece needs to be experienced in manageable doses!
We rushed to a nearby Starbucks to grab some sandwiches while our guide joined a long taxi line. After what felt like ages, she finally secured a cab, and we headed to our next Gaudí-themed stop: Park Güell.
Through Barcelona traffic the guide fretted the entire way about us missing our reserved entry time. Not our fault, I wanted to say. She got us admitted anyway.
As we entered the park, I gently let her know we’d manage just fine on our own. It was time for a little breathing room. With a polite Ciao, Adiós, we parted ways, finally free to explore Park Güell at our own pace.
Unfortunately, the park itself didn’t redeem the fuss about it. It felt crowded, underwhelming, and far less magical than its reputation suggests. The colorful mosaics and playful designs are iconic, but after all the effort it was a letdown. Some places look better in postcards than in person.
Day 8 – Madrid the Capital Experience
After a smooth and reasonably pleasant train journey from Barcelona to Madrid, we arrived with a mix of anticipation and curiosity.
The scenery outside the window had been a calming medley of Spain’s diverse landscapes—rolling hills, golden fields, and clusters of small, charming villages. It was a reminder of the country’s quieter, less hurried side, in contrast to the buzz of city life.
Madrid is a bustling blend of history, culture, and modernity. After settling in, we found our way one of the city’s most iconic treasures: El Retiro Park.
El Retiro Park welcomed us like an urban oasis. Its wide, tree-lined paths, ornate fountains, and picturesque lake were an inviting introduction to Madrid’s charm. We strolled through its expansive grounds, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and appreciating the park’s beauty.
A friend, knowing my love for cake and pastries, suggested we visit the bakery La Mallorquina.
As we made our way there, we passed through the bustling Del Sol Square, full of activity.
I wasn’t prepared for the aggressive throngs of people at La Mallorquina; it felt reminiscent of my childhood when my mother would drag me through the chaotic Filene’s Basement sales in Boston, with customers pushing in and out.
We saw some stairs and just followed them up to the café, not surprisingly it was packed. A waiter gestured for us to sit, but there was no pretense of waitstaff service here.
In broken English, he pointed at the menu and simply said “no” to most items; they were out. However, we ordered remaining items of a ham and cheese croissant, a tomato tart, and, of course, slices of vanilla cream and chocolate cakes.
The noise of the café buzzed around us. Our food arrived quickly. The bill slapped down. It would have been too bad if we wanted anything else. But we didn’t Despite the chaos, the lunch was delicious.
As we descended the stairs, I noticed a waiting line for seating and realized we had made an error in judgment by not waiting. Oh well!
Luckily, our hotel was just a half-mile from the bakery, and I returned every morning for our breakfast pastries. This time, I could actually see the beautiful pastries in the display cases. Although there were morning customers, it was nothing compared to the crowd we encountered before.
Little did I know on our first visit it was Epiphany Eve, and many locals were simply trying to get their festive cakes, adding to the earlier crush of tourists. You don’t have to just like cake to love this bakery. Just time your arrival.
Day 9 – Museums and More: A Day in Madrid
With our guide expertly maneuvering us through the Prado Museum, we cover a lot in just a couple of hours.
Our day with the guide ends at Madrid’s oldest chocolatier, San Ginés Chocolate Shop, where we enjoy scrumptious cups of thick hot chocolate and churros, their house specialty. Once a local favorite, it now seems to cater more to tourists—but the chocolate is undeniably delicious.
Although our guide was knowledgeable about Madrid, she wasn’t the friendliest personal guide we’ve ever encountered. It was also the first time I sensed a negative sentiment towards Americans, which was a surprising and somewhat disheartening experience.
Later in the afternoon, we return to explore the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofía.
At the Reina Sofía, I find myself standing in front of Picasso’s Guernica, awestruck by the genius in his depiction of horror and devastation. It’s a moment that stays with you.
No museum visit feels complete without a stop at the gift shop, and the Reina Sofía’s shop is one of the best we’ve ever visited. The structure itself is stunning, and the merchandise is beautifully curated. I pick out a blue-and-white striped Picasso signature shirt that has quickly become a favorite—I wear it constantly.
Day 10 – Madrid last day we explore on our own.
By now, we’ve gotten the hang of the city and can easily find our way around. Our first stop is the Royal Palace.
The Royal Palace of Madrid is a stunning symbol of Spain’s former power. With its grand architecture and luxurious interiors, the palace shows the wealth and artistry of the Spanish Empire. Built in the 18th century, it served as the official home of the Spanish monarchy, highlighting their importance in ruling a vast empire. Today, the palace stands as a reminder of Spain’s status as a major global power in the past.
From there, we head to the Plaza de España, home to the famous Don Quixote statue.
Next we explored Madrid’s vibrant culinary scene by visiting the Mercado de San Miguel.
Established in 1916, this historic market has become a bustling hub of Spanish delicacies. It was fascinating to see all that the market had to offer, bustling with a mix of locals and tourists.
We bought a sample of various sandwiches, and as with everywhere in Spain, the ham was simply scrumptious—even for someone who doesn’t usually eat ham. It’s hard to resist in Spain!
No trip to Spain would be complete without experiencing flamenco, one of the nation’s most treasured traditions.
We secured a coveted table at Corral de la Morería, Madrid’s most legendary tablao, where the enchanting dance and haunting vocals come alive nightly. Unlike typical dinner-show venues, their Restaurante Tablao elevates the experience with genuinely exceptional cuisine.
We had a gourmet menu that defied the usual tourist-show fare, proving this venerable institution takes its food as seriously as its flamenco.
Stonehenge to Picasso: Exploring the Best of England and Spain
As with all trips, there are moments when expectations don’t quite align with reality—like a guide who didn’t measure up or plans that didn’t go as smoothly as hoped. But then there are the exceptional experiences that stand out: the magic of early morning access to Stonehenge, or the unforgettable New Year’s Eve lunch at an olive farm outside Barcelona.
It’s my daughter I’ve shared these moments with. I know she’ll always carry the memories of our adventures together, just as I will.
Our trips are always carefully budgeted for, but the experiences we share together are truly priceless.
Itinerary for Stonehenge Secrets and Spain Spirits
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