Basking with the Basques...

Bilbao

 San Sebastian

Well readers, as you are more than likely aware, I have been somewhat "off the air" for a few weeks. What with a few technical difficulties and a desire to just put my feet up for a while, I have been more than remiss with keeping you up to date with my movements.  I have in fact, been sunning myself and indeed spoiling myself terribly in the Basque country. Let there be no mistake, the Basques are unique...from the language to libations...and from entertainment to cultural pursuits there is a distinct tradition to this 'part' of Spain that is unlike any other.  I was charmed by the shady beauty and strong personality of Bilbao and the sheer beauty and delight of the Guggenheim, but I am totally overwhelmed by the...all...of San Sebastian. And it has it all in abundance: sweeping city beaches, sultry and svelte night life and the most remarkable food to be found anywhere.  The chefs of San Sebastian have taken the once humble pintxo (the Basque version of tapas) to an extreme art form and all are displayed within easy reach...one's taste buds will never be the same.


It is said that the old quarter or Parte Vieja has more bars per square metre than anywhere else.  There is certainly no shortage of choice for a location for my evening tipple...one overlooking Bahia de la Concha I think best serves my purpose.  What better way to start the evening than with a perfect view of the beach in an evening glow and a deliciously dusty 1995 La Rioja Alta Rioja Gran Reserva 904 in hand. Life is indeed grand.

Valencia...much more than freshly squeezed orange juice.

Life has indeed thrown me an interesting diversion...well, a ticket to sunny Spain actually.   It is not without unreserved glee that I have emerged in stunningly majestic Valencia. Long suffering in reputation as the poor cousin of bully boy Madrid and 'tres chic' Barcelona, Valencia is more than worth a fleeting visit.  Beautiful tree lined avenues and plazas, an aesthetically atmospheric and historic city centre and two most passable city beaches accessible in the time it takes to apply a tanning lotion. What more could one ask for?  Valencia has quickly become one of my 'must visit again and stay longer' cities.  Of course, one can not survive on sites, sun and sand alone, there are the all important evening victuals to consider. On each street corner and in every leafy plaza is a restaurant, bar or small cafe that is more than happy to welcome you with the delights of their kitchens. Tapas and a relaxing tipple is the perfect siesta breaker in the early evening and is almost obligatory amongst the local population. Not wanting to break with tradition, I have smoothed away the remenants of my light afternoon nap and have settled into a comfortable chair on a shady corner for some tasty tapas and a delightfully fruity, locally spiced Sangria.  Mmmmm! A long evening ahead I feel.