Day 16: Madrid Bajaras Airport
On our way home!
When I left Ireland, I couldn’t even abide the thought of coming to the airport in a skirt. It had been rainy there, and cold. Pleasantly so, but not cozy enough for leg-baring clothes. This moment, I am sitting with Sierra at an airport cafe waiting for our flight, in a lightweight black dress, having had my fill of sun-drenched Spain.
Just one of the contrasts of Ireland and Spain. I’m glad we went to these countries. The combination was more diverse and interesting.
Of course, there’s the language, even though when they talk at a fast clip, I have a hard time understanding the Irish. In Spain, it was fun to have to stretch and communicate in a different language. I’ve even peppered my speech with palabras, words, en Espanol.
Ireland is green and cool. Spain is hot and dry.
Ireland has its share of touristy places, but nothing as crazy as Spain, especially Barcelona.
The Irish lead quiet lives, mostly indoors. They have their Guinness and bars, but for the most part, they close down things at 9 or 10. That’s just the beginning of the Spaniards’ evening.
Ireland has more natural attractions (which has appealed to our family) and cool castle ruins. Spain has palaces and loads of history, set in tree-lined parks, but they don’t have a lot of natural attractions.
I love both places in different ways.
I love Ireland’s green rolling hills, their charming bed and breakfasts and helpful people. I love that they have a lot of open spaces and rural way of life.
I love Spain’s vibrant street life and culture. I love its history and the romance of its palaces.
Ireland and Spain had my sister. 🙂
Joy says we should return soon. I hope we can, and make side trips of other places like Greece (Sierra’s vote).
It’s been way fun, but now…I’m looking forward to home.
Specifically..boiled white rice. (Hopefully) sleeping in. Lighter fare. My own kitchen. No more suitcases and mini-rations of shampoo. My husband. Our family together. Finishing my writing projects. Using my laptop and office. Tending my flowers and yard.
Also, I plan to pick a photo/s from our trip, blow it up and put them on my office wall. I can’t wait to walk in every day and have the wonderful memories return.
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