Madrid: Palacio Real. Very nice. Like Buckingham Palace but in Spain. No corgis.

Málaga: The Madrid Express. Built for speed (like myself) and with a oversized nose (hmmm).

Madrid

I am off to see my friend/intercambio Juan in Madrid this lunchtime. The only other times I have visited Madrid before have been on a drinking weekend (J.C.) and a 2 hour shopping trip so I haven't really experienced the delights of this big city. I will only be staying for one night so will need to get busy this afternoon with some sightseeing. Top of the list is the Museo del Prado and a good walk por el centro. Photos will be posted. Barnacles out.

Lake Viñuela: What an unexpected jewel to find! Lots of great walking around this man-made lake and it is easy to get to from our apartment. Also good flora and fauna for the naturist (not nudey).

Nerja: Parkes and Granny B celebrate finding the best paella in town. Chiringuito El Breine serves up fine fare although you may have to wait a while to receive it.

Nerja: Granny B tucking into paella.

January - first day of term

Beth went back to school today, parkes back to the gym and Strings back to the kitchen.

Cómpeta: Panorama.

Córdoba

Today is our last day in the city and we have had a great time. The hotel has been fine (if a little warm) and the weather has just about held fair. We visited the Mezquita today and I found it slightly disappointing. The Moors had built this beautiful Mosque which had subsequently been defaced by Spanish Catholics. Still, it was worth he entry fee. We also visited the Alcazaba gardens which were pretty. Tomorrow we venture back to Nerja via somewhere for lunch - probably Antequera. And then Parkes and I have a hotel night out in the mountains.

Córdoba: Alcazaba 1

Córdoba: Alcazaba 2

Córdoba: Mezquita 1

Córdoba: Mezquita 2

Córdoba: Mezquita 3

Córdoba: Concentration.

Nerja: Freshly made crisps hand-made on the Balcon. Keeping Nerja's population happy and chunky.

Nerja: Beth, Parkes and Granny B queue up to deliver Beth's letter to the three Kings in the hope she will receive gifts on 6th Jan. I think she probably will...

Beth the builder

Nerja: La iglesia de San Salvidor.

New Years Eve

Making robots