La Sagrada Familia Basilica, Barcelona

Antoni Gaudí, 1852-1926, was the Spanish architect of the world's longest currently running architectural projects. Gaudí evokes, through advanced engineering & design elements, the feeling of a quiet forest with light streaming in, and using geometric organic elements, such as the spiral of a snail shell, the hexagonal pattern of a bee hive, and the straight line on a curved leaf, the spiritual beauty of Nature. Estimated completion 2026.

N Portugal: Porto to border of Espanha

From historical Porto with lots of "Port" tasting opportunities to the hills and mountains on way to Spain, northern Portugal has castles, monasteries, pilgrimage sites and even ancient Roman Roads to explore.

Coimbra, medieval capital & university

Arriving during graduation week meant all-night music from the partying at the University in Coimbra, one of Portugal's most distinguished. It's a historic city with the tomb of the first King of Portugal from 12th c. Almost missed the tomb just resting in the back of the musty but famous Santa Cruz Monastery. In the 1940s, the dictator Salazar apparently plowed over a large part of the town for expanding the university causing some controversy with its grand buildings and statues. However, now it's an important institution for Portugal's future leaders and professionals. 

Sintra wonderful day hike & sightseeing

Hike a loop trip leaving up the stairs to the left of town's tourist information office (TI) through the lush temperate gardens of Peña up to the Peña Palace on the top of the hill then, on nearly hidden trails, traverse to the old Moorish Castle nearby. Leave the tour buses behind. Buy combo ticket ahead of time at the TI.