Year to Best: Act #22 - Oh, The Places I Go

I love to travel.  I especially love to travel somewhere NEW.  Perhaps it's my personality, or perhaps it's a generational thing, but the world feels like my playground.  Most any location seems easily open to exploration and experience, and I can think of very few places I wouldn't like to see at least once.

I know lots of people feel this way, but sometimes life gets in the way.  Money needs to be spent on home, cars, kids, life.  C'est la vie.  

But this year, I knew I was feeling stagnant and needed to get back to traveling and experiencing new places.  I committed to saving the funds.  I decided that I'd go alone if that worked out best, and this time, that was the best plan.  I booked my tour.  I was totally excited.

And my excitement was merited - I had a fabulous trip.  Spain had been calling my name for quite a few years.  I had no idea why.  I was able to see some of the big Spanish cities, and some of the small ones as well.  The big plus was that I also got to visit Portugal...and it turns out, I think I like Portugal better than Spain!  It's not quite as showy, but the people are nice, they speak better English, food is delish, towns are lovely.  I would certainly go back.

The major interesting things in Spain are (to me):
1. The amazing history
2. The unique culture

In terms of history, they have dated settlements in Spain back to the Neolithic age (we're talking cave paintings here!), through the Roman empire, Visigoths, Catholic conquerors, Medieval period, and so many other eras.  To be in places with that much old energy is strange and beautiful.

And as for culture...well, the Spanish might be the most laid-back people I've ever seen.  They are boisterous and social.  They seem more physically affectionate and emotional and romantic than Americans, in general.  They eat outside more often than they eat inside, so most every restaurant has patio seating.  They take their time.  They really do observe siesta time, when everything closes for a couple of hours in the afternoon.  They don't believe in very expensive wine, because even good wines have low prices there.  Are there negatives to this?  Sure - restaurant service can be slow, and evenings can be loud on busy streets.  People might not be as motivated or ambitious (I'm really not sure, that's only a guess). Regardless, it's a lovely culture, with some great towns - especially for retirement!

One other note - some people prefer to visit a new country and simply explore on their own.  I typically prefer to maximize my time and money and travel with a tour group.  Cosmos was the company I used, and it was pretty terrific.  Once booked, I didn't have to worry about airfare, hotels, transportation, entrance fees to some of the sites, and about half my meals - all taken care of.  Being on the tour also meant the chance to meet new people and a great guide to answer questions and help with the occasional translation and provide good tips/directions.  It turned out great, and I will likely travel with them again on one of their many trips.

So, did this trip contribute to my overall well-being?  Absolutely, in many ways, but mostly mental and emotional, for sure.  Well worth it!  Next time, maybe some of you can join me?