Arrival and Day 1

I´m finally here! I arrived at 7am (Spain time) and met my hosts, Julio and Maria Fernandez.
Then we went to a different terminal to pick up their daughter, Nuria, who left from VA at a later time than I did.

Because I arrived in the nick of time at the correct JFK gate for my flight, my checked luggage was put on the next flight. We have waited all day for them to drop it off at our hotel, but it looks like we´ll have to pick it up ourselves tomorrow.

Today we visited Madrid. We saw the Palacio Real, and the Plaza Mayor with all the streets and shops around it. Many statues, fountains (and pigeons), beautiful classical architecture, and wrought iron balconies.

 It was hot today (mid 90s, I think), but it was breezy. In the afternoon we stopped for a sandwich and later some frozen yogurt - very different from ours - and did a little shopping. Then we relaxed at the hotel via a nap in our rooms and another nap by the pool.

We finished our buffet-style, delicious dinner, and then sat outside on patio furniture surrounded by glowing rocks. It was quite something. The weather was perfect by then, too.

Another exciting day tomorrow! Some more Madrid (majoring on gardens/parks) and then we will travel to our hotel near Segovia. Sunday we will spend the day in Segovia, and drive back to Vitoria that evening.

I love and miss you all! Buenas noches!

Katlyn