tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90026549649768570702024-03-14T15:20:09.127+08:00The Travel Bugmonlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-79593759760175530892019-06-27T19:33:00.002+08:002019-06-27T19:33:49.093+08:00Travel tips and debunking myths about Spain<b>Getting Around</b><br />
<br />
Spain was one of the rare countries we visited where we didn't take the metro at all. For one, many of the places we visited were walking distance from the hotel and if we needed to go further afield like to the train station or airport, it meant we had our luggage, so taking a taxi was easier. Taxis are not expensive in Spain, and considering there were three of us, it was just slightly more expensive (and a lot more convenient) than taking the metro.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqbgNUkbNJvnGwqqoeF1reIdf5GiR3yVJNnB1q8P_IjJyGodUbYss0sgBoJWrahyphenhyphenckr-Ova56p2ZVNAjeXkTUd3i-95ewu5x4sdNSnmk_WErs2b6y0onL9cs65yPQcpyyLEzEB57hQ-W0_/s1600/20190615_203348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqbgNUkbNJvnGwqqoeF1reIdf5GiR3yVJNnB1q8P_IjJyGodUbYss0sgBoJWrahyphenhyphenckr-Ova56p2ZVNAjeXkTUd3i-95ewu5x4sdNSnmk_WErs2b6y0onL9cs65yPQcpyyLEzEB57hQ-W0_/s400/20190615_203348.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Also, as I've mentioned, you can try Cabify or Uber to get around. Cabify is like Grab and frequently has €3 discount codes. What I like is that you don't have to attempt to explain to the cab driver (who may not speak English) where you're trying to get to, since you just key in your destination. You also pay a fixed amount and don't have to worry about traffic bumping up your fare (which can happen if you're right smack in the Sol area in Madrid where traffic can come to a standstill).<br />
<br />
However, something to note about Cabify: sometimes, your driver can take a long time to get to you, so you need to buffer in that time. We've had instances where our driver was 18 minutes away and had to travel a longer distance to get to us than to where we were going!<br />
<br />
We also relied on Google maps a lot. No more getting lost with this failsafe app. Andre was the navigator for most of the trip, guiding us to attractions and restaurants. Gone are the days of wandering helplessly down wrong alleys and through mazes trying to find the right place. <br />
<br />
<b>Transportation</b><br />
<br />
We travelled from city to city on three types of transport: plane, fast train and bus. The AVE fast train is our favourite, as it's very comfortable. But as I've mentioned, they're very popular, especially during
summer when it's the holiday peak season, so you should book your
tickets as early as possible. Renfe is the main rail company in Spain
and they don't release the tickets in any set order - sometimes 2 months
before, sometimes a month. I booked the train tickets the day they went on sale and a week
later, the tickets were already 25% higher. You can book via the <a href="http://www.renfe.com/?cmpid=SEMgoogle2019junio&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=sem2019&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkITb39_g4gIV0qiaCh1IkwGrEAAYASAAEgLnFPD_BwE" target="_blank">official Renfe site</a>, but it's all in Spanish, so I booked from the <a href="https://www.thetrainline.com/trains/spain" target="_blank">Trainline site</a> instead. The prices are similar and at least you can read what you're booking! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RX7VEef4ZCX1GYN_GOE64799tp0PwEL_jdNY4YV45JSiRX6ZU18VlPv1ArmuD0TqucyDmDwJgS2z_PpzAQtehvcxF6N3Ty3PlpBknSwrS1ivfcUf_vRX8DBrSwtUHlWQMzcTyuWAItAp/s1600/DSC04458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6RX7VEef4ZCX1GYN_GOE64799tp0PwEL_jdNY4YV45JSiRX6ZU18VlPv1ArmuD0TqucyDmDwJgS2z_PpzAQtehvcxF6N3Ty3PlpBknSwrS1ivfcUf_vRX8DBrSwtUHlWQMzcTyuWAItAp/s400/DSC04458.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The domestic flight we took was with Vueling. It's fast and hassle-free, though the plane is pretty basic. But it got us from Barcelona to Seville in 1.5 hours, a journey that would have taken 6 hours on the fast train (and a lot more expensive), so it's definitely a good option.<br />
<br />
The inter-city bus we took was Alsa and it's also super comfortable, with a toilet on the bus, so no worries needing to take a leak on long journeys.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5Ea7XpCyH-smSFKu4Rd_10t3ooiHhczaKxmm08cV0eigj_9wdOkPW-EoRWNOffnOf7caylahmLacvtwC1gbf03VqMLcAzitxu9A8c8PvenVzBXlzflHMOnANC7meE2jsrQ5LxKrIX5kd/s1600/20190617_135255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5Ea7XpCyH-smSFKu4Rd_10t3ooiHhczaKxmm08cV0eigj_9wdOkPW-EoRWNOffnOf7caylahmLacvtwC1gbf03VqMLcAzitxu9A8c8PvenVzBXlzflHMOnANC7meE2jsrQ5LxKrIX5kd/s400/20190617_135255.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We've all heard the stereotype about Spanish transportation being laid back and unreliable, but I can debunk this right now. All three types of transport that we took were impeccably efficient and organised. Even the bus left and arrived to the MINUTE that it was scheduled for. The airport, train stations and bus stations are large, modern and clean. The check in processes are fast and smooth. Mark me impressed. Unless you're unlucky enough to be there during a strike, you shouldn't have to worry about unreliability.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_57l56vyoDOVX8WkpnQgNganF7m4NcMFY2RkU7m31EFjNkS3rq6XMVx1KTnLkSXgX2H4r4URD3Wd5IEFh9nc28piGkEN938hwp0v9g-5wI6X5524sSR9JwfrOLfTvMKx9hbhpsb-ouOw/s1600/DSC06410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_57l56vyoDOVX8WkpnQgNganF7m4NcMFY2RkU7m31EFjNkS3rq6XMVx1KTnLkSXgX2H4r4URD3Wd5IEFh9nc28piGkEN938hwp0v9g-5wI6X5524sSR9JwfrOLfTvMKx9hbhpsb-ouOw/s400/DSC06410.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Language</b><br />
<br />
Spanish words are relatively easy to say because they're pronounced they way they are spelt, much like Malay. Just two exceptions: 1) 'j' is pronounced 'h', eg. jamon (ham) is pronounced "hah-mon".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1plm9_q37ayYPiJHkIf_7LFmxrkHV4PTWmTA04G0r0nO0TfZySajTefWoI6K3OrwGhHaKKDi1fD7lTzrQBiUaPIS7qGxb2Pwu-GbEhWw8n1RRAa2sZ48bJ17qCGPeyTDUq9VBuSkAkgTY/s1600/20190615_161210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1plm9_q37ayYPiJHkIf_7LFmxrkHV4PTWmTA04G0r0nO0TfZySajTefWoI6K3OrwGhHaKKDi1fD7lTzrQBiUaPIS7qGxb2Pwu-GbEhWw8n1RRAa2sZ48bJ17qCGPeyTDUq9VBuSkAkgTY/s400/20190615_161210.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
2) Double 'l' is pronounced 'y'. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqXiwF7QsZrKLjXD6M6e7uMYPLnhR-ZTazi4NbgAlq-fjvH5DmjionfB3YD0M3lYp8uJdLbKixlCftlwFsx81niqq1I_n4_IV9CZ1_4DgHSPssVmy02DfM8a8CTgYN8tbZFYLgz5jXXsy/s1600/20190618_230123+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="954" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqXiwF7QsZrKLjXD6M6e7uMYPLnhR-ZTazi4NbgAlq-fjvH5DmjionfB3YD0M3lYp8uJdLbKixlCftlwFsx81niqq1I_n4_IV9CZ1_4DgHSPssVmy02DfM8a8CTgYN8tbZFYLgz5jXXsy/s320/20190618_230123+ed.jpg" width="189" /></a>For example, you know the popular yoghurt brand Llao Llao? Well, the reason it starts with a double 'l' is because it's a Spanish brand. And it's not pronounced "lao lao" or "ee-lao ee-lao" but "yao yao". So now you know!<br />
<br />
In the larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona, most of the Spanish at least know a smattering of English, and restaurants in the tourist areas usually have an English menu.<br />
<br />
<b>Eating</b><br />
<br />
The Spanish have, what is to us, very odd meal times. Breakfast is usually a pastry and coffee, lunch is only from 1.30pm, and dinner from 8pm. Making a dinner reservation at a restaurant for 10pm is more common than for 7pm!<br />
<br />
This totally doesn't gel with our meal times, but in reality, this worked for us more than against us. Unlike Spain in the past where restaurants would close for a siesta and open only for dinner, most restaurants nowadays, especially in the city, open throughout. So if you're like us and wander into a restaurant at 6pm, chances are you not only won't have to wait for a table, you'll have the restaurant all to yourself. And you'll get the most fantastic service cos they're not harried!<br />
<br />
A common misconception is that service is slow, that's why meals in Spain take such a long time. We found this to be completely untrue. The waiters are efficient and our food was generally served quickly, we didn't encounter any noticeable waits. We're usually out of a restaurant within an hour. Another misconception is that Spanish waiters are rude. That's also not true. Not every waiter was super friendly, but I wouldn't call them rude, more matter-of-fact. They're direct and their aim is to get you what you want, not make small talk (which suits us just fine!) If you ask them for recommendations, they're usually happy to oblige.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCOi62CpyHdAUqUAesHQiAau83-Gilv3g4f_e0EipAb8YASaxHe0ZtkieNBpUPXarTe0psVN3ke60evCa8dMOzVVHVmivjMpe0t-n4l7o2nl-4d0xuYBmIQoF7yZw1bz4_Thbg3vbIweM/s1600/DSC05413+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzCOi62CpyHdAUqUAesHQiAau83-Gilv3g4f_e0EipAb8YASaxHe0ZtkieNBpUPXarTe0psVN3ke60evCa8dMOzVVHVmivjMpe0t-n4l7o2nl-4d0xuYBmIQoF7yZw1bz4_Thbg3vbIweM/s400/DSC05413+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In terms of choice, you're in food haven in Spain. Especially nowadays with TripAdvisor and Google, you really have no excuse for eating bad food, since you can search ratings before you go to a restaurant. And compared to Singapore, eating at restaurants is very much more affordable in Spain, especially with regards to the quality of food. I won't go into detail about the food here since I've already raved endlessly about it in my posts (plus I'll start drooling on my computer). Just umm...a few pics.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8uwLQq3CWbs3nrIfmXw8J3TNGuEfPCQVShwXIdcUg8bDNOfoqpLza7zGNQlseDQvapn5SqZLhVOr6ia9rLLI3kRL7w-tLKh6J-oxgh-_aQiIzch4P1NShDG4zovH6nsp8aIg6ea8KcXS/s1600/DSC04378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8uwLQq3CWbs3nrIfmXw8J3TNGuEfPCQVShwXIdcUg8bDNOfoqpLza7zGNQlseDQvapn5SqZLhVOr6ia9rLLI3kRL7w-tLKh6J-oxgh-_aQiIzch4P1NShDG4zovH6nsp8aIg6ea8KcXS/s400/DSC04378.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkE9nlgUqzihi2-l-dmRk2taa_W_X-zR-oWnAKCjfhTUHJLRUstRQV6-yjkCjDDK8F39P8ZB3VM2XU7EIyESnB1wUJN02NR3tscUgMMEI3J8ZBoXyMW0PuUi9UripzXoEaAxggfb23YXPf/s1600/DSC05225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkE9nlgUqzihi2-l-dmRk2taa_W_X-zR-oWnAKCjfhTUHJLRUstRQV6-yjkCjDDK8F39P8ZB3VM2XU7EIyESnB1wUJN02NR3tscUgMMEI3J8ZBoXyMW0PuUi9UripzXoEaAxggfb23YXPf/s400/DSC05225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJhEUzU95QwumLKFUYfu2fXHkZ-4H9HchsV3jlMhyphenhyphenJoWl1zUeQGsHTr1m97KcYSz0376nSkINzEU5iDTZTtsU6iv0k0VH_-TvrmEyix1CWkT89WUDcJrY4C3XLlO3qMglky2lsWij_ab0/s1600/DSC06107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJhEUzU95QwumLKFUYfu2fXHkZ-4H9HchsV3jlMhyphenhyphenJoWl1zUeQGsHTr1m97KcYSz0376nSkINzEU5iDTZTtsU6iv0k0VH_-TvrmEyix1CWkT89WUDcJrY4C3XLlO3qMglky2lsWij_ab0/s400/DSC06107.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHftMPPBdjFYNfou-3EmBcm4m6lH3RoyDPf2rsgNCryaHjUw76kiJHJYlA1HDiHBTV-0Y8PqktVVxlQwnzlQCOhulxowlVrqF7McPW5fnD_gvuvR7LBv8Hafurefi1wkeLGI1yj0gRo13/s1600/DSC06423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikHftMPPBdjFYNfou-3EmBcm4m6lH3RoyDPf2rsgNCryaHjUw76kiJHJYlA1HDiHBTV-0Y8PqktVVxlQwnzlQCOhulxowlVrqF7McPW5fnD_gvuvR7LBv8Hafurefi1wkeLGI1yj0gRo13/s400/DSC06423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheruuiNUWHmuJT4SFFCPyp2yb9onBCkwyLPcaLYFssScOKqCxxdb8b30WPWtBw21DKNXnjDXird3RRdaDYXKOXZhsRXrv4QZAjEwfN3Yl3UFC9HMnK2h-XwTKwlDxraOfr4PtCdlcsoFMV/s1600/DSC06389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheruuiNUWHmuJT4SFFCPyp2yb9onBCkwyLPcaLYFssScOKqCxxdb8b30WPWtBw21DKNXnjDXird3RRdaDYXKOXZhsRXrv4QZAjEwfN3Yl3UFC9HMnK2h-XwTKwlDxraOfr4PtCdlcsoFMV/s400/DSC06389.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Pickpockets </b><br />
<br />
Before we left for the trip, we were warned by many people about pickpockets in Spain, especially Barcelona and in summer. I personally have friends who have been pickpocket victims. If you read all the encounters online, it's enough to make you think everyone in Spain is out to grab your belongings.<br />
<br />
After having gone there, let me say this: be vigilant but don't be paranoid, especially to the point where the anxiety spoils your holiday mood. Similar to our experience in Paris, we found that our fears were unfounded and we never felt unsafe at any point.<br />
<br />
Yes, pickpockets exist and we did have a close encounter on our last day in Madrid, but that's because we had let our guards down and were a little complacent. In general, it's safe and if you carry your bags in front of you, you should be fine. Don't do stupid things like leave your bag unattended or next to you when you're on your phone or distracted, that's just asking for trouble.<br />
<br />
When we walked into a McDonald's in Barcelona to check out their chocolate doughnuts (yes, they have chocolate doughnuts in Spain's Golden Arches!), the restaurant manager came up to us and asked, "English?" When we said yes, she told us, "There are pickpockets in the restaurant, be careful." I thought was great of her to warn us. Soon after, we saw two police officers in the restaurant, she had probably called them. So the locals too, are on the lookout for potential crime, and there is heavy police presence in all the tourist areas we went to in Spain.<br />
<br />
<b>Shopping</b><br />
<br />
If fashion is your thing, you're in for a treat in Spain. There are lots of mid-priced and budget labels sporting the trendiest styles. You have your famous Spanish labels like Desigual, Mango, Zara, and all the Zara-owned labels like Lefties, Pull & Bear and Bershka. There's also a giant five-storey Primark in Gran Via in Madrid. Primark is Irish, not Spanish but it's very popular because of its low price point. Very affordable and so much choice you'll wish you had a bigger wardrobe and more time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdW4ZaYQbfetiWRHhTUrNDFdYT3uVbJQrbTlMcs-dYqf0k6roasLNYJB8QrOSYY0m-LPK18NDl8FIdUWDnqnqHJ6r1MOb9Ih1qOuc6pbXNhsXA-cacnjKypev7kk2SzkagKk01jpoX2d1/s1600/20190614_210033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdW4ZaYQbfetiWRHhTUrNDFdYT3uVbJQrbTlMcs-dYqf0k6roasLNYJB8QrOSYY0m-LPK18NDl8FIdUWDnqnqHJ6r1MOb9Ih1qOuc6pbXNhsXA-cacnjKypev7kk2SzkagKk01jpoX2d1/s400/20190614_210033.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're petite, you'll rejoice even more because Spanish women are surprisingly short. I had no trouble finding clothes that fit me. Even Lesley-Anne who's even shorter than I am and has trouble finding pants or jeans of the right length in Singapore, could go on a shopping spree there. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
xxx</div>
<br />
In conclusion, we enjoyed our trip to Spain very, very much. Even more than we thought we would, if that's possible. The country is simply beautiful with many picture-perfect spots. Heritage, art, culture, and modern cityscape - there's just so much to see, do and enjoy. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbb4cj2Td0-TjkpNbR9jc-JjRGOlqTyG9P9_23rpXJoIvCL9suWkqNNAOCN-DYZqEfy3rrdvopm36AtkDB3KCTitA9rxpoStR4vCbjraILx5l0vjbun_VxreMq4fDxiAqlzjYicI31Dhm/s1600/DSC05884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbb4cj2Td0-TjkpNbR9jc-JjRGOlqTyG9P9_23rpXJoIvCL9suWkqNNAOCN-DYZqEfy3rrdvopm36AtkDB3KCTitA9rxpoStR4vCbjraILx5l0vjbun_VxreMq4fDxiAqlzjYicI31Dhm/s400/DSC05884.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The culture is relaxed but without compromising on efficiency. The
people can be a little err...expressive, but for the most part, we found
them warm, friendly and helpful.<br />
<br />
If I had to give one-liners to the three Spanish cities we visited, I would say that
Seville has the best sights, Madrid has the best shopping, and Barcelona
has the best food. And since the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, this makes Spain a very satisfying holiday destination indeed.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-59151230357991919412019-06-21T20:30:00.000+08:002019-06-21T20:41:47.748+08:00A walk in the park and dining at the oldest restaurant in the world<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 11 (Wed, 19 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
This was our last day in Madrid and we had a close encounter with pickpockets. We were shopping along the crowded Gran Via in the morning, when Andre felt someone step on his shoe. Realising that the person must have been very close to him, he was immediately on his guard and slowed down to let the person pass him. That's when he saw two girls trying to unzip Kenneth's backpack from behind. The moment he looked at them, they immediately vanished into the crowd.<br />
<br />
Thank God for Andre's instincts! It was a close shave. Tip: always carry your bag in front of you, not at the back. We've been quite vigilant, but it just takes one moment of distraction and a large crowd for something to happen. According to Andre, one of the girls was carrying a selfie stick, which meant that she was pretending to be a tourist. Sneaky.<br />
<br />
Anyway, we're none the worse for it, thankfully. We went for lunch at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d7204621-Reviews-Rosi_La_Loca_Taberna-Madrid.html" target="_blank">Rosi La Loca</a>, a restaurant recommended by Lesley-Anne's housemate. It's a delightfully kitschy place, with loud decor and a vibrant interior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1tnteLPSMtMqecT_HL3MgKU8N0Aszr7fCe8Z2G4bGL24raQ7Mfox9Izv6eJJAlYgeyYzTUHoc0Ch8jz9v1Znu5taxFd2jBiBy_I7J-Stej4YbFPLDF5ls9bHWBR4EHbAOIM41KCAx3Ak/s1600/DSC06468+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1tnteLPSMtMqecT_HL3MgKU8N0Aszr7fCe8Z2G4bGL24raQ7Mfox9Izv6eJJAlYgeyYzTUHoc0Ch8jz9v1Znu5taxFd2jBiBy_I7J-Stej4YbFPLDF5ls9bHWBR4EHbAOIM41KCAx3Ak/s400/DSC06468+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWf_l7Gg07tPYFe9WFASaJqMjfkhschtT-gAJr-49JMavEL5mLxnE02z-QuaFmavuWLHUjD8_D7HrTSk4AYCGLdZ_aKieD9qy-xELAvJgMyv11DnS-iBurVVqG7jyh8NpoZc3YZr-22zV/s1600/DSC06470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWf_l7Gg07tPYFe9WFASaJqMjfkhschtT-gAJr-49JMavEL5mLxnE02z-QuaFmavuWLHUjD8_D7HrTSk4AYCGLdZ_aKieD9qy-xELAvJgMyv11DnS-iBurVVqG7jyh8NpoZc3YZr-22zV/s400/DSC06470.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Funk seems to be hallmark of this place. We saw dishes served in bull-shaped bowls and in platters with glass covers. The paella is served in a pan the diameter of a wok. When the waiter brought us the burrata, he used a large syringe to inject pesto sauce into it! (It was so quick we weren't prepared for photos).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFj7xk0EGO-Xdp2zxz89MdtnDH7zgDcvUtWn6v7CoKiMs01i_7EmcGQ_4wGJvAjPXFvIQJkmgvjy8pUXW3TFO8LglH6GEY3FOa4G2VXQqjoWgiAuTV3I0Rg93JuWLG8tn2WpxMoHZjmDI/s1600/DSC06460+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFj7xk0EGO-Xdp2zxz89MdtnDH7zgDcvUtWn6v7CoKiMs01i_7EmcGQ_4wGJvAjPXFvIQJkmgvjy8pUXW3TFO8LglH6GEY3FOa4G2VXQqjoWgiAuTV3I0Rg93JuWLG8tn2WpxMoHZjmDI/s400/DSC06460+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pesto-stuffed burrata </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-yuO4qnxhryr64Yr__yO7tboiQXB5BB-veKUjMYSwg_ULNtCJiXZKgKTH181woGAyIaEcBZtHT4lZuv9d3SYCpLqNXViQ9R0VSKWNA_N9thgx29FCfh60kp4VBTPy3ipT-Zl2aUUxJ9u/s1600/DSC06461+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1026" data-original-width="1600" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB-yuO4qnxhryr64Yr__yO7tboiQXB5BB-veKUjMYSwg_ULNtCJiXZKgKTH181woGAyIaEcBZtHT4lZuv9d3SYCpLqNXViQ9R0VSKWNA_N9thgx29FCfh60kp4VBTPy3ipT-Zl2aUUxJ9u/s400/DSC06461+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eggplant chips with honey</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_XzRbxaHpfnfZl4gUwVWeyEFeM9LunC1FQk945U7aMoaASpMpPEFbd5DJvHncuUuLDkzht6_wKRWi6mjPAei_Xuf9qtIaZh0GSJZzwSQy7chgxJNQGLioe1c45Cc6XP2Chmn6YwxtSs5/s1600/20190619_193649+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1600" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA_XzRbxaHpfnfZl4gUwVWeyEFeM9LunC1FQk945U7aMoaASpMpPEFbd5DJvHncuUuLDkzht6_wKRWi6mjPAei_Xuf9qtIaZh0GSJZzwSQy7chgxJNQGLioe1c45Cc6XP2Chmn6YwxtSs5/s400/20190619_193649+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork loin and tuna tataki</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The tuna tataki was served in a boat with dry ice. But gimmicks aside, the food was sensational. I don't usually like pork, but that pork loin was so tender and flavourful that we ordered a second serving. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VamN9uJ4AswV0mJz_AOACmqO2jwmUlm7eNo7N-4jn5yTtlsayYy9iMO8wa10SFO3H7n8O58PitlBHm_dTjgNN-rVRdzvcwKNf7fBuqQmemR1wNIyugHoGQfMSFpZsstVi9HsmXQRdruD/s1600/20190619_193130+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2VamN9uJ4AswV0mJz_AOACmqO2jwmUlm7eNo7N-4jn5yTtlsayYy9iMO8wa10SFO3H7n8O58PitlBHm_dTjgNN-rVRdzvcwKNf7fBuqQmemR1wNIyugHoGQfMSFpZsstVi9HsmXQRdruD/s400/20190619_193130+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After our meal, they gave us three complementary test tubes of some peach slush.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH5yVpdrDiXfsgwr9kOiT-ah7fRf270hQWAjjSBh-oQxRLsJXsfrymRxiAyFY5Ba4EzX3F4TYz9veKNrkB2dAiZHPkG6dgrLOKmb3umZh_MAnlw6HOwvi46hmttXosPRCcGEZ_k_eMFLy/s1600/DSC06478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH5yVpdrDiXfsgwr9kOiT-ah7fRf270hQWAjjSBh-oQxRLsJXsfrymRxiAyFY5Ba4EzX3F4TYz9veKNrkB2dAiZHPkG6dgrLOKmb3umZh_MAnlw6HOwvi46hmttXosPRCcGEZ_k_eMFLy/s400/DSC06478.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
If we had more time in Madrid, we would come back here for sure. This was hands-down the best meal we had in Madrid.<br />
<br />
We had originally planned to visit <a href="https://www.museodelprado.es/en" target="_blank">Prado Museum</a> in the afternoon. Madrid has three museums in the area they call the Golden Triangle of Art. Prado Museum has the biggest collection of Spanish art in the world, featuring Spanish painters like Goya, Velazquez, Rubens. However, we were feeling the after effects of many days of walking and the thought of walking two hours around a museum made us even more lethargic.<br />
<br />
So we decided to give it a miss and just go to <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/parque-del-retiro" target="_blank">Retiro Park</a>. Happily, Lesley-Anne could join us after her lessons in the afternoon. Retiro Park is a fantastic green lung right in the city, and is very pretty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DaYcE5g6zg_FcZKtdB2e0HVe7GejtQue2_2WQo5l8gOLceP4yZKhMjgN6boBSOoN5ePH20sGpfyJ-nHWUrv4bn_AzWVpJhnMoO3THofggoGX5BABD3lXRGM9OwBLhMtWd9wQC12ANLY-/s1600/DSC06500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DaYcE5g6zg_FcZKtdB2e0HVe7GejtQue2_2WQo5l8gOLceP4yZKhMjgN6boBSOoN5ePH20sGpfyJ-nHWUrv4bn_AzWVpJhnMoO3THofggoGX5BABD3lXRGM9OwBLhMtWd9wQC12ANLY-/s400/DSC06500.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYRijmBk4szcFL6bNWy3vYOS8q-pUEniVvAuZpiSLFVi2f9qgVcKTDuqXquGLG6b40XzaUWI2scTu2k3_flyyktmCJ6fEBQIwrq9owDFUZ8RcXEKebzTz6_UxbDp-5F3mOcHyMFebrOIY/s1600/DSC06505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYRijmBk4szcFL6bNWy3vYOS8q-pUEniVvAuZpiSLFVi2f9qgVcKTDuqXquGLG6b40XzaUWI2scTu2k3_flyyktmCJ6fEBQIwrq9owDFUZ8RcXEKebzTz6_UxbDp-5F3mOcHyMFebrOIY/s400/DSC06505.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's such a restful and beautiful place. Sitting on a park bench under the shade is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. As long as you stay out of the summer heat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisp7yurl4Y_7pk1GMI1oYioifHi3diSG_Ri8siL16g5lgUH0XTuzH6G6gD78x8QHdwfJqm-mdB81y0ssS-VI6tsXw2QLAIewFXLcxPwwLFLWF8Bim6alXcvHzSzyZYJl29cvpl9l3ySCs/s1600/DSC06578.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhisp7yurl4Y_7pk1GMI1oYioifHi3diSG_Ri8siL16g5lgUH0XTuzH6G6gD78x8QHdwfJqm-mdB81y0ssS-VI6tsXw2QLAIewFXLcxPwwLFLWF8Bim6alXcvHzSzyZYJl29cvpl9l3ySCs/s400/DSC06578.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wd8Fj9evJTr9FU7Y3_TgxQSWPEr-767rvLOutoxU7gOoX9BphKZ3CTXC3r03Jn8HfG9STCZZeYSiT0yEer9oHtH_PqPpea1wUzvuvaTVdcXX_qqNc1ln_-2MMVXnkESgXD7fOhzelOk9/s1600/DSC06584.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wd8Fj9evJTr9FU7Y3_TgxQSWPEr-767rvLOutoxU7gOoX9BphKZ3CTXC3r03Jn8HfG9STCZZeYSiT0yEer9oHtH_PqPpea1wUzvuvaTVdcXX_qqNc1ln_-2MMVXnkESgXD7fOhzelOk9/s400/DSC06584.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the park's main attractions is the Crystal Palace, which sits in the middle of the sprawling park. It was originally meant to be a greenhouse when it was built in 1887 but is used as an exhibition hall today. There was a temporary exhibition going on when we visited it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLoNq0sUpoZyUwWekisMMeqTDCogydE7lvVUacLyTJoVEPj2EpQmwa04634DOTLgh5t58vb11wtuSzWwmLMj2oqYceFEYYWXltjBFARVUYZka3EmlUHShn6fwWvi9qtxd-FmN2wx-EDvrH/s1600/DSC06521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLoNq0sUpoZyUwWekisMMeqTDCogydE7lvVUacLyTJoVEPj2EpQmwa04634DOTLgh5t58vb11wtuSzWwmLMj2oqYceFEYYWXltjBFARVUYZka3EmlUHShn6fwWvi9qtxd-FmN2wx-EDvrH/s400/DSC06521.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UPich_OEnQh9dmvFLpVENxPq45eAOY8xEwDdd1JmVno3bTPU8Q9G1zczXg0vdt1qtF3Un8esnSOtatfTLzC_mHby3CBeI1BzOiciokpTVNYEfqwrnc-xIdz-FW9yGjZs8PmHET415eQs/s1600/DSC06529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0UPich_OEnQh9dmvFLpVENxPq45eAOY8xEwDdd1JmVno3bTPU8Q9G1zczXg0vdt1qtF3Un8esnSOtatfTLzC_mHby3CBeI1BzOiciokpTVNYEfqwrnc-xIdz-FW9yGjZs8PmHET415eQs/s400/DSC06529.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULwHQE6xpwuGRyY9EYCDoxpiTFFadQ6cZB0tVqUdmzOr_oRSg_u-YfvvL5lsf9qoXmtcj7uMEaE2LhlmnkfyQokwGV37QV0NKqu8RHGFn6ennQqNR70d0iXoGRmfroe0-8LTb6FgIAKuZ/s1600/DSC06539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULwHQE6xpwuGRyY9EYCDoxpiTFFadQ6cZB0tVqUdmzOr_oRSg_u-YfvvL5lsf9qoXmtcj7uMEaE2LhlmnkfyQokwGV37QV0NKqu8RHGFn6ennQqNR70d0iXoGRmfroe0-8LTb6FgIAKuZ/s400/DSC06539.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's very elegant but we saw how it could have been used as a greenhouse because we felt the greenhouse effect. It was sweltering inside - as if all the sun's rays were laser beamed into our skin. Probably better to go in the morning!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpdSnJ4VxJsN_rm2q-7r81mD4Pxsgv1qdNRANgyaxYff9H2-XoX33hD0ucxFIVDFRKMKXRrcW4RvP2lphKFIBUAUUshHDgxzITGIbnSD_LuF6RhHGPzDnB7rGMEgFbq7DL6kQ4qZZe68C/s1600/DSC06545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMpdSnJ4VxJsN_rm2q-7r81mD4Pxsgv1qdNRANgyaxYff9H2-XoX33hD0ucxFIVDFRKMKXRrcW4RvP2lphKFIBUAUUshHDgxzITGIbnSD_LuF6RhHGPzDnB7rGMEgFbq7DL6kQ4qZZe68C/s400/DSC06545.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Next, we visited the rose garden. This is another gorgeous place. The roses were in full bloom in a multitude of hues. I'm sure couples come here to get married - it's such a romantic setting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7B-GYWbjTQM24Dn33V461lHUeanme5U95qsbmjUWTOmVDzFOAzOMZCygA3-RjnGwadvS4nG3q8cQMlJtKjgX1VDpfM53eiwk4BbJJbFRGf0ejUpt1oWpNXElqTrFNdf4zAjWOOmnsRlXq/s1600/DSC06587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7B-GYWbjTQM24Dn33V461lHUeanme5U95qsbmjUWTOmVDzFOAzOMZCygA3-RjnGwadvS4nG3q8cQMlJtKjgX1VDpfM53eiwk4BbJJbFRGf0ejUpt1oWpNXElqTrFNdf4zAjWOOmnsRlXq/s400/DSC06587.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtQ39QyqiE0hmv0ARPYZ7pzDS8ZiCl3LSNf1bY8Az1lNG3RgMauYIConrHEKua9WtOnUBF6e3LM01W3O5RBUp_feCgMg2bs1EHSXSi8TQvn8B3BgX5T8pXWRllt6VcLk8K_XgVrQknqjB/s1600/DSC06588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqtQ39QyqiE0hmv0ARPYZ7pzDS8ZiCl3LSNf1bY8Az1lNG3RgMauYIConrHEKua9WtOnUBF6e3LM01W3O5RBUp_feCgMg2bs1EHSXSi8TQvn8B3BgX5T8pXWRllt6VcLk8K_XgVrQknqjB/s400/DSC06588.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVHUYRfS0mupQwSbLcBU82uWtmj7pRP_m3k9_AySKYfKRgLz7x-RgIa-1A9jHKIao0n30jp1PMUOdIEPE9auEcPwufI_Dp-RA_v5yay5qRXu9lho8z6wd0zpX0CWtJ4Y8mnrjT_oBmm90/s1600/DSC06602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVHUYRfS0mupQwSbLcBU82uWtmj7pRP_m3k9_AySKYfKRgLz7x-RgIa-1A9jHKIao0n30jp1PMUOdIEPE9auEcPwufI_Dp-RA_v5yay5qRXu9lho8z6wd0zpX0CWtJ4Y8mnrjT_oBmm90/s400/DSC06602.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3XU5k5ayuikm5Hhj2dMfpwAhpsm8LvQ-B_tsL74tHY3uF4Z8_YEat5sActhC3Q7DPJQln_f8wcxBDVLM4r6dwM6zz_bm2QEb4YDOxJm1Fdl9COpgFTrQNpL2qDd__pHxSzJNOuS-1PST/s1600/DSC06610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3XU5k5ayuikm5Hhj2dMfpwAhpsm8LvQ-B_tsL74tHY3uF4Z8_YEat5sActhC3Q7DPJQln_f8wcxBDVLM4r6dwM6zz_bm2QEb4YDOxJm1Fdl9COpgFTrQNpL2qDd__pHxSzJNOuS-1PST/s400/DSC06610.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_67aTQWIhNyJsIPjNi1n4lRbwaQIHivw-DwK9ClyV6VK6rsh5jaL3m9BnvuJFPAXDcMbE9FImsYd1bOPuV01HFuM11XQ-2MVyEpOeUsHQX0wx_eQJ6lLvhjYxqA8SsfLOnIUspd69disk/s1600/DSC06616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_67aTQWIhNyJsIPjNi1n4lRbwaQIHivw-DwK9ClyV6VK6rsh5jaL3m9BnvuJFPAXDcMbE9FImsYd1bOPuV01HFuM11XQ-2MVyEpOeUsHQX0wx_eQJ6lLvhjYxqA8SsfLOnIUspd69disk/s400/DSC06616.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zZannlytQf8y6n00757R138MU6WV0rZz5ufxKfjQ8OR_lGkq21CGrIRIUb5yIX2ZNELayK28CZwc0nlfu-GrWZjjWKe0A898re1KQUvTs8bTct5oEmRbgBdj6HLAUxghXu7J2PQIrtlZ/s1600/DSC06623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zZannlytQf8y6n00757R138MU6WV0rZz5ufxKfjQ8OR_lGkq21CGrIRIUb5yIX2ZNELayK28CZwc0nlfu-GrWZjjWKe0A898re1KQUvTs8bTct5oEmRbgBdj6HLAUxghXu7J2PQIrtlZ/s400/DSC06623.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ahn5sQpqlTKpIeIBSkPOwsRRaPWQNOF09UhOdrrdENIXJlRtEDNombYl2ZoSR1tYooIyZvt6wv9cVhvyEHxUZCfBnsOr32GP6IHErty68A5vMlXwmn-GdYhNFf5qF9vMA6K0bGZdsDNC/s1600/DSC06629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ahn5sQpqlTKpIeIBSkPOwsRRaPWQNOF09UhOdrrdENIXJlRtEDNombYl2ZoSR1tYooIyZvt6wv9cVhvyEHxUZCfBnsOr32GP6IHErty68A5vMlXwmn-GdYhNFf5qF9vMA6K0bGZdsDNC/s400/DSC06629.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
On the way back to the hotel, we stopped for gelato. We've had very good ice-cream in Spain, but this little parlour called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d12716318-Reviews-Giolatto_Madrid_Atocha-Madrid.html" target="_blank">Giolatto</a> has the best ones we've tried. So many flavours, how to choose??<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRhikAKJ3ZKsGa2k_U8Hc6yMTBuUkElr8AyYPvZ8gl08zUt0Btuge64bDl0BknfxUWNZvn4Aou6r88xHIr7EIB4aqgB4Yh0nhWA2Wco7dE6nJ3gOgN8wENberlPhwwvIuIPS864XyBi-o/s1600/DSC06643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIRhikAKJ3ZKsGa2k_U8Hc6yMTBuUkElr8AyYPvZ8gl08zUt0Btuge64bDl0BknfxUWNZvn4Aou6r88xHIr7EIB4aqgB4Yh0nhWA2Wco7dE6nJ3gOgN8wENberlPhwwvIuIPS864XyBi-o/s400/DSC06643.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yP-llfKdcTaZb0uunWA7GoIh5GXXzIg8D3PRralfRbfYQQbMWBqbH9G5nqW6attz-_j1o-035UFmbylKIzJrFJ4XBBt9rXiQaNkF5jvtEWqUCYJtcHGkxZKcsj8-s6JhZ_M-4yo6VNyw/s1600/DSC06646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yP-llfKdcTaZb0uunWA7GoIh5GXXzIg8D3PRralfRbfYQQbMWBqbH9G5nqW6attz-_j1o-035UFmbylKIzJrFJ4XBBt9rXiQaNkF5jvtEWqUCYJtcHGkxZKcsj8-s6JhZ_M-4yo6VNyw/s400/DSC06646.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNygt6MjBCPhEAzth9xDb9tPpIOCVlvDlfZT-oLwEH2x7S0YNImqTidCXLTaKCKfwO6fp26JdWG2qAClusouJRfrwieNWlfYpe6y7wYDx9fU1n6FvZt7rykYQjsvY5VERPOMJK-D-P7QdH/s1600/DSC06647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNygt6MjBCPhEAzth9xDb9tPpIOCVlvDlfZT-oLwEH2x7S0YNImqTidCXLTaKCKfwO6fp26JdWG2qAClusouJRfrwieNWlfYpe6y7wYDx9fU1n6FvZt7rykYQjsvY5VERPOMJK-D-P7QdH/s400/DSC06647.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktl1DxWso022DmZC8zXAk1b6Y4Aje1IS5oYw0t6Qn9nbnjvaahc2GBEC0f41WjluT7sv_38BLCdzwhizzuNOJ9VRFHfpFNDZW3a6pKC6OVP08j9NPySBOdXrUtzZuU3sSXM8rRR24jpmo/s1600/20190619_173234+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjktl1DxWso022DmZC8zXAk1b6Y4Aje1IS5oYw0t6Qn9nbnjvaahc2GBEC0f41WjluT7sv_38BLCdzwhizzuNOJ9VRFHfpFNDZW3a6pKC6OVP08j9NPySBOdXrUtzZuU3sSXM8rRR24jpmo/s400/20190619_173234+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
And finally, dinner. Ice-cream was only the appetiser, of course! This dinner was special because it was a belated Father's Day celebration for Kenneth. We'd made reservations at <a href="http://www.botin.es/en" target="_blank">Botin</a>, which is the oldest restaurant in the WORLD. Yup, you read right! Founded in 1725, this restaurant is almost 300 years old. They still use some of the original ovens!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOZWG4cb7m9ozMBD2Kj5w9AOh9sbsXuWR4-ehuxoTfAk_v4TXd1AimmYFrZ0X6MYRrfG7GABfBsSAKpYFiNDcSA6uQO7HcqT6uHFyg2O8zl2cfLaPRYYmYRy8FFDZ7TPIeBqU9DTePlzF/s1600/DSC06651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUOZWG4cb7m9ozMBD2Kj5w9AOh9sbsXuWR4-ehuxoTfAk_v4TXd1AimmYFrZ0X6MYRrfG7GABfBsSAKpYFiNDcSA6uQO7HcqT6uHFyg2O8zl2cfLaPRYYmYRy8FFDZ7TPIeBqU9DTePlzF/s400/DSC06651.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The restaurant is best known for its cochinillo (suckling pig) and roast lamb. We ordered a portion of each and a couple of other dishes:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhVFJGFNKWqDXwaT2r_sdkNoteO6NZQVLIzl4eGrbmIcbmp5HQA-MjdIYtw1OYFUU_lJFuVstvs9lDpno4O89qmX7GIU8_n77PbUwEB5ua2uEUPKd-nPO7vbrQIL4rGloCS7kEFcU5oLJ/s1600/DSC06666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbhVFJGFNKWqDXwaT2r_sdkNoteO6NZQVLIzl4eGrbmIcbmp5HQA-MjdIYtw1OYFUU_lJFuVstvs9lDpno4O89qmX7GIU8_n77PbUwEB5ua2uEUPKd-nPO7vbrQIL4rGloCS7kEFcU5oLJ/s400/DSC06666.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimps in garlic sauce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MLrQYFkl7gCTJLlljdc2IofdAh2FmvYbqb0O-LboDhTd65go697t4VToF8Ur8ecRAa-nA1Rz7YCSvnvyHsJTAEcx3SRApTOS4iOG-XGFhp74cOYr1n1Mi640QyS98pjZFp3L6TCdvyjc/s1600/DSC06672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MLrQYFkl7gCTJLlljdc2IofdAh2FmvYbqb0O-LboDhTd65go697t4VToF8Ur8ecRAa-nA1Rz7YCSvnvyHsJTAEcx3SRApTOS4iOG-XGFhp74cOYr1n1Mi640QyS98pjZFp3L6TCdvyjc/s400/DSC06672.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garlic soup with egg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kGi4Gwt__UQWnI2kpr9wQLrymYbDf3I474bsluexK-rpu7sgIIlPI1la8szTgBoi7Vnj4mmTkzbCLw9Q09op2DmD0Yx1Zmc50bIghmpQi7xexWUwtl1CtBka1qvoMMdnpXhs4Xs_Fsu5/s1600/DSC06689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kGi4Gwt__UQWnI2kpr9wQLrymYbDf3I474bsluexK-rpu7sgIIlPI1la8szTgBoi7Vnj4mmTkzbCLw9Q09op2DmD0Yx1Zmc50bIghmpQi7xexWUwtl1CtBka1qvoMMdnpXhs4Xs_Fsu5/s400/DSC06689.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork and lamb with potatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_6OdqN4TGyvKo5PBApj0WPZl1l95juLfc54YNln6ycHuIAXGJ2CWDNowaAbk6wDtb0pIVWsYjl4tudNa6oLqvfVx8HIrwbPyEjanbVgezApXIqEFiMNQRc8fOkzR8Ma-nysI0yh5Uogb/s1600/DSC06692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_6OdqN4TGyvKo5PBApj0WPZl1l95juLfc54YNln6ycHuIAXGJ2CWDNowaAbk6wDtb0pIVWsYjl4tudNa6oLqvfVx8HIrwbPyEjanbVgezApXIqEFiMNQRc8fOkzR8Ma-nysI0yh5Uogb/s400/DSC06692.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Even though we only ordered one portion each of the pork and lamb, the waiters divided them into four portions, with a piece of lamb and a piece of pork on each plate, so all of us would get to try it. That was nice. And that suckling pig was very good indeed. But if you want our honest opinion, this was not one of the more memorable meals, taste-wise, and it's very expensive. Basically, you're paying to eat at a historic institution.<br />
<br />
Nonetheless, it was a special occasion and a remarkable place. Happy Father's Day!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZSlZQtSX_mJ3dDLpbDIWVTXC1WJAbAvxneM25ZXahXW-83M1GC4f2eeUI7tiJ9LH3eOJ_DwWrwYEzgfDyc42CM_EEKvRiBUlqvZWoyY-rC01-SP3PnUf8-GRmSMzfRyWRseGK5xUos1Y/s1600/DSC06674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZSlZQtSX_mJ3dDLpbDIWVTXC1WJAbAvxneM25ZXahXW-83M1GC4f2eeUI7tiJ9LH3eOJ_DwWrwYEzgfDyc42CM_EEKvRiBUlqvZWoyY-rC01-SP3PnUf8-GRmSMzfRyWRseGK5xUos1Y/s400/DSC06674.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
And that wraps up our adventures in Spain. We had a grand ole time - fantastic sights, friendly people and of course, the phenomenal food. I think I will miss that most of all. We're so making our own tinto de verano when we get home. Cheers!<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-41486144058065524482019-06-20T06:18:00.000+08:002019-06-20T06:18:13.140+08:00Summer days and nights in Madrid<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 10 (Tue, 18 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
Time to head back to Madrid! But first, we had brunch in Seville. We wandered down the main street and came to a bunch of restaurants. A quick check on Tripadvisor showed that Gusto had the best reviews, so we settled on that.<br />
<br />
Breakfast menus aren't very extensive or exciting in Spain, but the croque monsieurs and American breakfast we had at Gusto were pretty credible. I also had the best coffee in Spain so far. Coffee in Spain tends to be of the very acidic quality, which isn't what I like. I enjoyed the cappuccino at Gusto so much that I ordered a second cup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6XFluxVkAyoWWYGH9z25wkimLkBarmJfduD7021uJigxs_SaAehwYQbY83Qrw8Aa5R_biU9eM8wQ9jnRkg4_5NwgbJh5_S3zTK5t5dqnARzVJ0HCRccgrY9INXjwpphyphenhyphenESX7MiWuU9k9/s1600/DSC06395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA6XFluxVkAyoWWYGH9z25wkimLkBarmJfduD7021uJigxs_SaAehwYQbY83Qrw8Aa5R_biU9eM8wQ9jnRkg4_5NwgbJh5_S3zTK5t5dqnARzVJ0HCRccgrY9INXjwpphyphenhyphenESX7MiWuU9k9/s400/DSC06395.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa7VyslyqS85pgVcIijkbPlQC2NwLH9PKRPMJIJdwruE4chX_iajLcM9a-KjDItZgLJsyPHVNu_LFNYdeOv3UDadXazRWPweYlJOpj4B3HqFVXRBBdcDKaXykE7SCGpaeVbHGyhlcfDAf/s1600/DSC06397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa7VyslyqS85pgVcIijkbPlQC2NwLH9PKRPMJIJdwruE4chX_iajLcM9a-KjDItZgLJsyPHVNu_LFNYdeOv3UDadXazRWPweYlJOpj4B3HqFVXRBBdcDKaXykE7SCGpaeVbHGyhlcfDAf/s400/DSC06397.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We caught the Renfe fast train from Seville's Santa Justa station, and the ride from Seville to Madrid took 3 hours.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsr0la9uZkKmRqXRVx8AfFCqupNnEAd-7b8dVltfwyvwYHTMpOkvGG_T6R1wR6slY1c0zFVUO2mcjnUuiFO5jiwDdJ-pd9Km1nhP6AM6AYgRUbjeuxqIUEtjK5z2wExVfRilJz9mZMe85k/s1600/DSC06405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsr0la9uZkKmRqXRVx8AfFCqupNnEAd-7b8dVltfwyvwYHTMpOkvGG_T6R1wR6slY1c0zFVUO2mcjnUuiFO5jiwDdJ-pd9Km1nhP6AM6AYgRUbjeuxqIUEtjK5z2wExVfRilJz9mZMe85k/s400/DSC06405.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKdtJjDooucM-8XDLelifZ6FV6Rkp8wkXGS01S6EqFFYKfvmTWr3iefWgYouCEyUrJw60ms3K9_cmyv9rUeGJhoNERuPX9ZfXlJbDXMi6nxht2RkuxT6hGGMswqTUOfeekVfb2lZg7URu/s1600/DSC06414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKdtJjDooucM-8XDLelifZ6FV6Rkp8wkXGS01S6EqFFYKfvmTWr3iefWgYouCEyUrJw60ms3K9_cmyv9rUeGJhoNERuPX9ZfXlJbDXMi6nxht2RkuxT6hGGMswqTUOfeekVfb2lZg7URu/s400/DSC06414.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIubkQ2BcUP5PWMsuYsBOYr-jEVm5yhkL7jC6E5ihOwoUSHpD6jSkTIIs3Zwete6nwS8sJagH2_7QV8ETLzK9SUKG4MAqmdwqbXNbBxMB0wGrnMuVGqenBYSQFZgLn4B_NuZPXnsZ7PaeT/s1600/20190618_121902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIubkQ2BcUP5PWMsuYsBOYr-jEVm5yhkL7jC6E5ihOwoUSHpD6jSkTIIs3Zwete6nwS8sJagH2_7QV8ETLzK9SUKG4MAqmdwqbXNbBxMB0wGrnMuVGqenBYSQFZgLn4B_NuZPXnsZ7PaeT/s400/20190618_121902.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Back in Madrid, we met up with Lesley-Anne at our hotel (Petit Palace Puerta del Sol again) and it was great to see her. We've missed travelling with her! She's enjoying her time in Madrid and she walks 1.6 km to and from campus every day. Fighting fit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl03J8_WInEQ54717yalBQ-oJyd6g05m1xZPJZp2awJOqi_NilPPHsv6HA1SWWEAS7ntPmCPFOBK2ixJKXyvprwHkMrKbMGZGFm3IS8t8EGUsyaMrR_tVVESZbbFf25MjXSYvPmlPeNDeY/s1600/20190618_224407+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1082" data-original-width="1600" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl03J8_WInEQ54717yalBQ-oJyd6g05m1xZPJZp2awJOqi_NilPPHsv6HA1SWWEAS7ntPmCPFOBK2ixJKXyvprwHkMrKbMGZGFm3IS8t8EGUsyaMrR_tVVESZbbFf25MjXSYvPmlPeNDeY/s400/20190618_224407+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
For dinner, we went to <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d990632-Reviews-Venta_El_Buscon-Madrid.html" target="_blank">Venta El Buscon</a>, a nearby eatery.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTQnryIn2ifTyn8yHy1boCOnno2mam5I4QknhC4n9yyioSYcVw6ee0zf0yiNUNLjEIkf3prRheQABozvFjzoVqFROtAS2gw9wX8DVKadPGs9HgrVpBDcfp4MZQQSUSeSpJQu99zjUS1xB/s1600/DSC06434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTQnryIn2ifTyn8yHy1boCOnno2mam5I4QknhC4n9yyioSYcVw6ee0zf0yiNUNLjEIkf3prRheQABozvFjzoVqFROtAS2gw9wX8DVKadPGs9HgrVpBDcfp4MZQQSUSeSpJQu99zjUS1xB/s400/DSC06434.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The restaurant is known for its generous portions. When we ordered two glasses of tinto de verano, they served us a complimentary plate of paella! Believe it or not, this was the first paella we'd eaten on this trip. It was quite underwhelming though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegDBXsuSyA9yvKUeDMUZGJX6W-SYMyighiOiV9w62EZnjGC1l4F5dHo4ddxhBs88Gl0q-Up3KQ0ZTsQVDfIUkEWsAcKR9dPr2-n0szydIas9mNuMB14mAEBHfYizkdpvqWCSfUaY5TWgK/s1600/DSC06419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegDBXsuSyA9yvKUeDMUZGJX6W-SYMyighiOiV9w62EZnjGC1l4F5dHo4ddxhBs88Gl0q-Up3KQ0ZTsQVDfIUkEWsAcKR9dPr2-n0szydIas9mNuMB14mAEBHfYizkdpvqWCSfUaY5TWgK/s400/DSC06419.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij30vhJ_RYdfPJTZNiXLAsfSprjiY45LVxmHFQkJsM56yTG0CCL1BDMJg45iPgTWa_IFvLewudXCqEccRBDR5KY8iSTNAOXF4M_bS4eBBZ9JTTtyEPNaXbP9zyyQaTjbjkGOZmW47HeOBa/s1600/DSC06422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij30vhJ_RYdfPJTZNiXLAsfSprjiY45LVxmHFQkJsM56yTG0CCL1BDMJg45iPgTWa_IFvLewudXCqEccRBDR5KY8iSTNAOXF4M_bS4eBBZ9JTTtyEPNaXbP9zyyQaTjbjkGOZmW47HeOBa/s400/DSC06422.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled octopus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfScQwmzHA-kMyOS2at9YErk21JWAe-2kqUltQ9rPPna4PcjaIY68BMczqTlIgIh4iNedj6iSCX3UGaCGj3pYSmzkKfUiENPDQgkkCtbMF1ay26Pd6XEwW0tH10MkP_4TG7wj3l7t_75k/s1600/DSC06426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBfScQwmzHA-kMyOS2at9YErk21JWAe-2kqUltQ9rPPna4PcjaIY68BMczqTlIgIh4iNedj6iSCX3UGaCGj3pYSmzkKfUiENPDQgkkCtbMF1ay26Pd6XEwW0tH10MkP_4TG7wj3l7t_75k/s400/DSC06426.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef entrecote</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwYXjEPW110pWxKHxjAe8b_qRlL_XihqKnneNSDJSt-Vpw4fKxAI2aYpYgvjgBlfIC6XUIxI9IuzuybVw4uoFkHQeFgqezAd_QKodbYzXjd_JJ2br37dbdc2ex8qPdXvLcJnZW_sRpV-dg/s1600/DSC06427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwYXjEPW110pWxKHxjAe8b_qRlL_XihqKnneNSDJSt-Vpw4fKxAI2aYpYgvjgBlfIC6XUIxI9IuzuybVw4uoFkHQeFgqezAd_QKodbYzXjd_JJ2br37dbdc2ex8qPdXvLcJnZW_sRpV-dg/s400/DSC06427.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cod steak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2PuNSig7t85fqEcjnWz_yL52QFpq0KnWQ5pjGRe6YY1je1-GQsxqPq0j64XYSV8Pgn5H-CUIlSVmRJGAy3GxuVHgEguENd5WPNmeoPCPK19-P0rFGebGjEVlS700UpDuKIstXHWksaYA/s1600/DSC06432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ2PuNSig7t85fqEcjnWz_yL52QFpq0KnWQ5pjGRe6YY1je1-GQsxqPq0j64XYSV8Pgn5H-CUIlSVmRJGAy3GxuVHgEguENd5WPNmeoPCPK19-P0rFGebGjEVlS700UpDuKIstXHWksaYA/s400/DSC06432.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The portions are indeed generous and prices very reasonable. However, though the beef was quite excellent, I think we'd been so spoilt by the exceptional quality of food in Barcelona that this meal didn't stand out for us.<br />
<br />
After dinner, we did a spot of shopping, then wandered around the Puerta del Sol area. It's a hive of activity and very happening.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9lmRNtTeDKZSWwprk2og-2ymwkewdfjEYNvy31VuGs8jb9WzP-uDeZChcAWWSdT6_n-C3FYYDg9oZRA2Q6vhvqGSv48T7qjJ06HREaXJ0aAaVJrEucA-FooL3fb8vGNDmFW_PQVb90i5/s1600/DSC04299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9lmRNtTeDKZSWwprk2og-2ymwkewdfjEYNvy31VuGs8jb9WzP-uDeZChcAWWSdT6_n-C3FYYDg9oZRA2Q6vhvqGSv48T7qjJ06HREaXJ0aAaVJrEucA-FooL3fb8vGNDmFW_PQVb90i5/s400/DSC04299.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There were performance artists galore...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVNUZ2WoHu9oCN-gYGhRaCm1zaHuOu9gPZ8zNgudo8XXaQNU_t8K1gCCH2KKQDepRF8Y7marwGaf-ufe_Yf5ToJInj_PoPzMJwSLgsV15iZ1ArlDxDMkdvktVfD15Ex9Zty3rR-oH6DLA/s1600/20190610_185859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxVNUZ2WoHu9oCN-gYGhRaCm1zaHuOu9gPZ8zNgudo8XXaQNU_t8K1gCCH2KKQDepRF8Y7marwGaf-ufe_Yf5ToJInj_PoPzMJwSLgsV15iZ1ArlDxDMkdvktVfD15Ex9Zty3rR-oH6DLA/s400/20190610_185859.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
And even a lively Mariachi band in the centre of the plaza.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_abJVm6NZHEl4UiG-EdgxB40d6WplxuHzV118FHJ37nqDFlWLuDxQYGjlDZaQgelO6DY1jfFFy2QGcVTUy8U_MEoAMQCbnsLiLFkvIPC8NBQEEix9sBS7nVYDxGbfim4IdK9SR9Rl88L/s1600/DSC06452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_abJVm6NZHEl4UiG-EdgxB40d6WplxuHzV118FHJ37nqDFlWLuDxQYGjlDZaQgelO6DY1jfFFy2QGcVTUy8U_MEoAMQCbnsLiLFkvIPC8NBQEEix9sBS7nVYDxGbfim4IdK9SR9Rl88L/s400/DSC06452.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Couldn't resist getting gelato cones for dessert.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4JMQZx9kPrGwuoAjOshX-upYZmYrOsvZonKvEgh70n7mMFNPVZjZsdpGWLH6NEwN3E4it6LuTzuIsazp_hLIr6TCwhrQNhKW0g45-EzilTw38L0QjLkvQApMv7F9uL8s4vHAWUiBPRdI/s1600/20190618_202345+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="1600" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4JMQZx9kPrGwuoAjOshX-upYZmYrOsvZonKvEgh70n7mMFNPVZjZsdpGWLH6NEwN3E4it6LuTzuIsazp_hLIr6TCwhrQNhKW0g45-EzilTw38L0QjLkvQApMv7F9uL8s4vHAWUiBPRdI/s400/20190618_202345+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Since it's summer, the sun sets at around 9pm, and it gets dark only after 10pm. But the activity never ends. As Hemingway said in <i>Death in the Afternoon</i>, "Nobody goes to bed in Madrid until they have killed the night."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyr5EKsCA25KkdrJjG9WdsPzvSbmnctM1OEw7ST8lHJzrQwVQaYS0XyPTKbHXSy_F4KM4trNtIvloWoGwuKFXHxENcbQvOatz1gDeK09p9hHkx5kMgdPkFLNZvUt_Wo8-UYp6SyyoZEqa2/s1600/DSC06695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyr5EKsCA25KkdrJjG9WdsPzvSbmnctM1OEw7ST8lHJzrQwVQaYS0XyPTKbHXSy_F4KM4trNtIvloWoGwuKFXHxENcbQvOatz1gDeK09p9hHkx5kMgdPkFLNZvUt_Wo8-UYp6SyyoZEqa2/s400/DSC06695.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rOt9Dw296YdsLtfNwi3oEm57LhjohOzx1S8L64z5RIhYgJ6rS9yGgLEZ-ZxdVO5UeiTlytCOQ6ZGh1-7od6qJ-vGRkocHuHA0dBP77osPny_ykeeudXxh3sq34vWiDJmYhsz3qy3wmqT/s1600/DSC06707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rOt9Dw296YdsLtfNwi3oEm57LhjohOzx1S8L64z5RIhYgJ6rS9yGgLEZ-ZxdVO5UeiTlytCOQ6ZGh1-7od6qJ-vGRkocHuHA0dBP77osPny_ykeeudXxh3sq34vWiDJmYhsz3qy3wmqT/s400/DSC06707.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some roller blading action going on</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuoCTIoPTEWBC6c-WhrKIB7durK8lHsW4si084fr-uPcsNdKISGwjKotbZywO7qwKMwyhFeCPYjEwen6vEvk0m-p-h0HChOM1Nz7Lx0mjJ-SAkp1eNaLOgNy1ildO3Th9FpPTkOlqzjwy/s1600/DSC06702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBuoCTIoPTEWBC6c-WhrKIB7durK8lHsW4si084fr-uPcsNdKISGwjKotbZywO7qwKMwyhFeCPYjEwen6vEvk0m-p-h0HChOM1Nz7Lx0mjJ-SAkp1eNaLOgNy1ildO3Th9FpPTkOlqzjwy/s400/DSC06702.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0O17YPkoA88GBd5VQdmXMvPGgUeHbVkD8dBrpG6EsuD3evTIEhpx1QG5Zpxcrnaso9ycceis43DLBudgWwRIgqDgYefEXRBCF47aMsq1nXUdYgvkaZzM4-Rq6SxnJm0Lw1rtNsQjIXos7/s1600/DSC06709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0O17YPkoA88GBd5VQdmXMvPGgUeHbVkD8dBrpG6EsuD3evTIEhpx1QG5Zpxcrnaso9ycceis43DLBudgWwRIgqDgYefEXRBCF47aMsq1nXUdYgvkaZzM4-Rq6SxnJm0Lw1rtNsQjIXos7/s400/DSC06709.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-70375954189468004042019-06-19T07:39:00.000+08:002019-06-21T21:18:16.252+08:00Memories of the Alhambra (the real deal, not the K-drama version)<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 9 (Mon, 17 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
Today was a full-day trip to Granada for one reason - to visit the magnificent <a href="https://www.alhambradegranada.org/en/" target="_blank">Alhambra</a>! Granada is a 3-hour bus ride away from Seville. We'd booked our Alsa bus tickets online and got to the bus station bright and early.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IgGUxMbQiBg2KJkLiZbaxJu4-7HgTtExrQIvubDK-F2tAIEnK887M2mVdbZrykneJpGIhYmA3IFY2Ax56nbunjPkSuC_0AhMbTbkTQqf41pwetNX6ZcQFc4sQMIzi3-Id4FOISRnZdKZ/s1600/20190617_135255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IgGUxMbQiBg2KJkLiZbaxJu4-7HgTtExrQIvubDK-F2tAIEnK887M2mVdbZrykneJpGIhYmA3IFY2Ax56nbunjPkSuC_0AhMbTbkTQqf41pwetNX6ZcQFc4sQMIzi3-Id4FOISRnZdKZ/s400/20190617_135255.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The bus ride was smooth and comfortable. The bus left on the dot at 8.15am and was expected to arrive in Granada at 11.15am. Would you believe it, as the clock on the bus turned 11.15am, the bus rolled into Granada bus station! And you thought Japan was the only country that kept perfect schedules. I'm beyond impressed.<br />
<br />
From Granada bus station, we took a cab to Alhambra. It's a 15-minute ride through narrow alleyways and uphill. One tip: from the ticketing office, it's a 15 to 20 minute walk to the main entrance of the palaces. If you want to save yourself the walk, you can ask the taxi to drop you right outside the entrance of the Palace of Charles V.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTOJXVFxs6T7t1RX3Jv-EhBKx47O_-fQOn6GlxCqWq85amWTN3yT1reSiyt-jjvKFrGQQ6j7KhrQV1CeiXgoa2psSTWYbexIt59xjjQppgsBDOfx__HRG_XxJhC0ojSWv2fDiVJUcjz3X/s1600/DSC06205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTOJXVFxs6T7t1RX3Jv-EhBKx47O_-fQOn6GlxCqWq85amWTN3yT1reSiyt-jjvKFrGQQ6j7KhrQV1CeiXgoa2psSTWYbexIt59xjjQppgsBDOfx__HRG_XxJhC0ojSWv2fDiVJUcjz3X/s400/DSC06205.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A little about Alhambra: it's a palace, fortress and self-contained city all rolled into one, originally built in the 13th century by the Islamic Nasrid emirs of Granada. Similar to Seville, it was made Christian in the 15th century when the Catholics conquered Granada. It's a UNESCO world heritage site.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
First, we went to see the alcazaba or the citadel. This served as the lookout and fortress to defend the city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53VlnQPX7bAUGwUBU3UEXh8uKGDwzFy5B_5WMuAAZKJBHY2E94grLosPaC-eFTdrKKEQByarPtx4x2nmAbgsoReXIGmHWcCDlJzWmGExi6ZCvQtVqb3WD_JY8wBhTCs04h30TIiUosyzB/s1600/DSC06164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh53VlnQPX7bAUGwUBU3UEXh8uKGDwzFy5B_5WMuAAZKJBHY2E94grLosPaC-eFTdrKKEQByarPtx4x2nmAbgsoReXIGmHWcCDlJzWmGExi6ZCvQtVqb3WD_JY8wBhTCs04h30TIiUosyzB/s400/DSC06164.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJWW1s6SGnpRzQAqdqAjbuipK-mG4dn14PfWv_gc6NJx6eKZDj9XuKRkXB4oG-MuvTOKm6sJ6EfwKvIVAw6iGmj-wkquyr5oqmjkW5fPsECi1pdD0J_L6Qe_WVGnDHHYZ1r_t-HCr4hzb/s1600/DSC06176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJWW1s6SGnpRzQAqdqAjbuipK-mG4dn14PfWv_gc6NJx6eKZDj9XuKRkXB4oG-MuvTOKm6sJ6EfwKvIVAw6iGmj-wkquyr5oqmjkW5fPsECi1pdD0J_L6Qe_WVGnDHHYZ1r_t-HCr4hzb/s400/DSC06176.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dOF5bQahcg-RwGoHt5COSOgBrg433ofLBfUhZqBH0TFd_jh-Arxip-uTIFgzNbhxn2q6qxJnnbCHkz0owSngoRf9WiXZTSEoddw6edWLhSpe5-VQo-gydF3IJUdZh6iFZ3n6aQjJ9kUW/s1600/DSC06183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5dOF5bQahcg-RwGoHt5COSOgBrg433ofLBfUhZqBH0TFd_jh-Arxip-uTIFgzNbhxn2q6qxJnnbCHkz0owSngoRf9WiXZTSEoddw6edWLhSpe5-VQo-gydF3IJUdZh6iFZ3n6aQjJ9kUW/s400/DSC06183.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvVJgjcJ5-8rAFOoBCK30FPNZwS5B021RwSZvcC_Q5zB2rxwyfDzlsUF37Mx3A1NOkoN4umIVC2jGOP-v9gm3Ake2p-eoNU8v4nc2_jKO4rQDRQWqlEg1qGnxPCmSUZREIkG27WKCwzwP/s1600/DSC06186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDvVJgjcJ5-8rAFOoBCK30FPNZwS5B021RwSZvcC_Q5zB2rxwyfDzlsUF37Mx3A1NOkoN4umIVC2jGOP-v9gm3Ake2p-eoNU8v4nc2_jKO4rQDRQWqlEg1qGnxPCmSUZREIkG27WKCwzwP/s400/DSC06186.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
From the main watchtower, you can see the entire city of Granada.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4ry5Qcmh-konkUyk89vwqCcWktcFFMD1rD522X2hNAaliFD3sivg2V4WiG2xLvkC95oa3kB4uIkUccvI8YCKFYHghPZpIEMqmnfJZwey-39WrbOkAMQhCLsSvG_i3DhytiHCYHcOaja/s1600/DSC06195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4ry5Qcmh-konkUyk89vwqCcWktcFFMD1rD522X2hNAaliFD3sivg2V4WiG2xLvkC95oa3kB4uIkUccvI8YCKFYHghPZpIEMqmnfJZwey-39WrbOkAMQhCLsSvG_i3DhytiHCYHcOaja/s400/DSC06195.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzbyJj9q7EIjS3UKAevwJ35V-kfBBTAk2sbqfugA79kHvH0A_l6sERwaaNF0VmpBCcgpdJUJhs6_5c0VgsU1MCQoVHlL245tEiIXMZAM0aGYQNujZe8efBZjk3id9t_M_WNi3inkjodcc/s1600/DSC06187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIzbyJj9q7EIjS3UKAevwJ35V-kfBBTAk2sbqfugA79kHvH0A_l6sERwaaNF0VmpBCcgpdJUJhs6_5c0VgsU1MCQoVHlL245tEiIXMZAM0aGYQNujZe8efBZjk3id9t_M_WNi3inkjodcc/s400/DSC06187.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The main attractions of Alhambra are the Nasrid palaces. Like most tourist attractions in Spain, you need to book in advance and in half hour slots to enter palaces. This sounds very stressful because you can't be late or they won't let you enter, and once you've booked the timeslot, you can't change it. But I guess it allows them to control the crowds. We saw tourists being turned away because they were late. They begged, saying they had travelled all the way from Germany and ran all the way in, but the gatekeepers to Alhambra attractions are as unmoving as the Spanish Inquisition. I suggest giving yourself lots of time to get there. If you book the 2pm timeslot, for example, they will usually let you in from 1.50-2.30pm.<br />
<br />
There are three main sections to the palaces, built at different times by successive emirs. Alhambra has been the setting and inspiration for many movies, such as 2016 Assassin's Creed. There's even a popular 2018 korean drama called Memories of the Alhambra based in Granada.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEmbXqaKbOKLJH_7gVhdIAp4RpDfPiVV4Q5lOj-eHA7xviMZJOvYm1L3ECsisVzA_OoiHqHytUvVeU50SQNQFaXOw_kPEGlk1JbK2fnq8PteFsRJE6oBjBuu0RqbUfAYcm4pdcyzdkVI7G/s1600/DSC06216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEmbXqaKbOKLJH_7gVhdIAp4RpDfPiVV4Q5lOj-eHA7xviMZJOvYm1L3ECsisVzA_OoiHqHytUvVeU50SQNQFaXOw_kPEGlk1JbK2fnq8PteFsRJE6oBjBuu0RqbUfAYcm4pdcyzdkVI7G/s400/DSC06216.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsf6EFqORwraMGVHXTncRf1aKXTWSy4jOAj4SMtWiD-RkHBhGqC03jrEUVEz6Mh03lOE9-TVZRuWB2i5A-YCdNWSRF9AkJpLMEG-GcgOfxAFQ5Te9EkPiZ5GADr1h5oBTEiLVQz7nQvg0/s1600/DSC06232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigsf6EFqORwraMGVHXTncRf1aKXTWSy4jOAj4SMtWiD-RkHBhGqC03jrEUVEz6Mh03lOE9-TVZRuWB2i5A-YCdNWSRF9AkJpLMEG-GcgOfxAFQ5Te9EkPiZ5GADr1h5oBTEiLVQz7nQvg0/s400/DSC06232.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It reminded us a lot of the Alcazar in Seville. The design is distinctly Muslim.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG9BD_G0uo0G7mB4lbLyzNIWqujo2HNyc0_icRelmzzoVlpBBiSDtJtOzUQ0B86UDAerUVqjd3frC-LNFcTajKRaLgmQ-Qvo9VcvL-YKfnzzCXGYDPB-14-ZiXfVbD-D34scTv3NFrkh7/s1600/DSC06225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPG9BD_G0uo0G7mB4lbLyzNIWqujo2HNyc0_icRelmzzoVlpBBiSDtJtOzUQ0B86UDAerUVqjd3frC-LNFcTajKRaLgmQ-Qvo9VcvL-YKfnzzCXGYDPB-14-ZiXfVbD-D34scTv3NFrkh7/s400/DSC06225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjP8TJzzxqZ1ECCsirnXioHKwi7yfj3ZO_788ATPeJ2SThDnU1BYDDOZpHNQVAcedX12e4mIOIAx00APuRWVAOLw44Ou-6GwkjDP9Z0RfLE5Fs_PwWUcfcOnglObgwBNqTiRNF3TJVdWNk/s1600/DSC06262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjP8TJzzxqZ1ECCsirnXioHKwi7yfj3ZO_788ATPeJ2SThDnU1BYDDOZpHNQVAcedX12e4mIOIAx00APuRWVAOLw44Ou-6GwkjDP9Z0RfLE5Fs_PwWUcfcOnglObgwBNqTiRNF3TJVdWNk/s400/DSC06262.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hESODgalVCLFIiyHxlxI1R7RWeZ7mVmY0yFsi4TBaAKpeo9TVwJfylFne36CcZnbpPbCJu1jLxxbla5VZB2xbEMkt5r7EVKKyEGpzs6QkXwWq1cHzTnO_GQ1EX5rw4VWubMpDa6nJzdp/s1600/DSC06271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hESODgalVCLFIiyHxlxI1R7RWeZ7mVmY0yFsi4TBaAKpeo9TVwJfylFne36CcZnbpPbCJu1jLxxbla5VZB2xbEMkt5r7EVKKyEGpzs6QkXwWq1cHzTnO_GQ1EX5rw4VWubMpDa6nJzdp/s400/DSC06271.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the Court of the Lions, which is possibly the most iconic area of the Nasrid Palaces.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFp96DbZYU0aNQgFIZ0Ix1eza-IgNXW2LbrDppYKvfaA8UXHPJfFyFa4U-Rvl5OU_pxvxU_niWbYLNA861I0rWQu2JmVgTtKFfvz8r6ivuvGeZvsqA2WunbTrlU-CgWzFnBdiIFpn-xa9/s1600/DSC06244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFp96DbZYU0aNQgFIZ0Ix1eza-IgNXW2LbrDppYKvfaA8UXHPJfFyFa4U-Rvl5OU_pxvxU_niWbYLNA861I0rWQu2JmVgTtKFfvz8r6ivuvGeZvsqA2WunbTrlU-CgWzFnBdiIFpn-xa9/s400/DSC06244.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxf9AfeM0JbpVw4_hDVdR90FCgDRO3yZH_NZIJkoNiOQt9l2YTxqSPoHSjIZh9iEEMBA1szPz3wWnfZuQyI0RlmYn7AfZuW-AvPWl-f92DI3P2XCU8zsp8-xHoowDHbFF8aNb9vLDVmAT/s1600/DSC06249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxf9AfeM0JbpVw4_hDVdR90FCgDRO3yZH_NZIJkoNiOQt9l2YTxqSPoHSjIZh9iEEMBA1szPz3wWnfZuQyI0RlmYn7AfZuW-AvPWl-f92DI3P2XCU8zsp8-xHoowDHbFF8aNb9vLDVmAT/s400/DSC06249.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12 marble lions symbolise power and sovereignty </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDGh6l-WKR9Lou4dpu1IYvY1InGYjSJ96PwdQprMgjECFj_JHmfCGR96rT0cl9kSDbdVC53dWu0kz9Byoi8eqOGptu8Y5J7CO4GazHVzA6iGgy3FTsCVUsFvVWmpVOr8dE0xkrx0cWZwT/s1600/DSC06252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDGh6l-WKR9Lou4dpu1IYvY1InGYjSJ96PwdQprMgjECFj_JHmfCGR96rT0cl9kSDbdVC53dWu0kz9Byoi8eqOGptu8Y5J7CO4GazHVzA6iGgy3FTsCVUsFvVWmpVOr8dE0xkrx0cWZwT/s400/DSC06252.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Nasrid Palaces open out onto a very pretty courtyard and garden.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3hqWb7BHsGBuSxA9tyenNGLFAQYEcDduQDAZ6qKpdf61JDhtuMPROxiR-d55zEaaYENiRLzrLX_t1IEqI0TsmlAyHzkQlyydVn3S4HV7EFnAVp8N5BAG_jzQGWm_HHmh8XuEocfs96er/s1600/DSC06301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV3hqWb7BHsGBuSxA9tyenNGLFAQYEcDduQDAZ6qKpdf61JDhtuMPROxiR-d55zEaaYENiRLzrLX_t1IEqI0TsmlAyHzkQlyydVn3S4HV7EFnAVp8N5BAG_jzQGWm_HHmh8XuEocfs96er/s400/DSC06301.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFZ1LGmdDWlld4U0SdzYjBlxFlr2CZftsdVbzsN7nf8Ri6KjZKKqfHVnZfNN_sQ_RitGE1xS1xoD-1mpRqKw7s-nMb-2zQscwMbxrDNimDOYb2bK0EOgVebJMmklg3DP8RDrNteu5hA-0/s1600/DSC06303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilFZ1LGmdDWlld4U0SdzYjBlxFlr2CZftsdVbzsN7nf8Ri6KjZKKqfHVnZfNN_sQ_RitGE1xS1xoD-1mpRqKw7s-nMb-2zQscwMbxrDNimDOYb2bK0EOgVebJMmklg3DP8RDrNteu5hA-0/s400/DSC06303.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51_O_sbMxsGCKM_mYE6RRSm_iAy430TahS04bSwoCQzdWfj5HrE3Hl6LowmaxIdtxHtn7Kr0KdQ5ydxK5o_38JYAPt7TKfm6yeOnCE_khoMUj84M-a_08w5Cm8vyhsXHfvD4RFqo96DNR/s1600/DSC06304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj51_O_sbMxsGCKM_mYE6RRSm_iAy430TahS04bSwoCQzdWfj5HrE3Hl6LowmaxIdtxHtn7Kr0KdQ5ydxK5o_38JYAPt7TKfm6yeOnCE_khoMUj84M-a_08w5Cm8vyhsXHfvD4RFqo96DNR/s400/DSC06304.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxs801lBk58qGS4azAv256YcE2GJpUP9hUBSJiPY-GFqV_pX-yiV0ehcguKnI5_zsaPPIQLK8jKYlwuARYl4bIZD25gUqYTaBSCehzZUjz9tFoq643Q34LOCJKjgr8NZ0SPDxfownsqTKU/s1600/DSC06306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxs801lBk58qGS4azAv256YcE2GJpUP9hUBSJiPY-GFqV_pX-yiV0ehcguKnI5_zsaPPIQLK8jKYlwuARYl4bIZD25gUqYTaBSCehzZUjz9tFoq643Q34LOCJKjgr8NZ0SPDxfownsqTKU/s400/DSC06306.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After the Nasrid Palaces, we walked towards the Generalife ("Architect's Garden"). This used to be the summer palaces of the emirs, and includes a vast stretch of beautifully landscaped gardens with water features.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLy440xXIZZpgXNZJbZfBc7H-o_Ksu77Z5G-ZZTZVIoKtz0uVqdtxDWxIQRhJr9JT2ul7WlTMDg028Z6FPWqeg0KA8mZVtlVEcKRK4bM6DqDG_4-zZO2xF3icaUqlun6dtTfxD8XrsoRvh/s1600/DSC06312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLy440xXIZZpgXNZJbZfBc7H-o_Ksu77Z5G-ZZTZVIoKtz0uVqdtxDWxIQRhJr9JT2ul7WlTMDg028Z6FPWqeg0KA8mZVtlVEcKRK4bM6DqDG_4-zZO2xF3icaUqlun6dtTfxD8XrsoRvh/s400/DSC06312.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-6tl_1ku_00uJ9ZS_3bNX7L84qqZoBL0jwYQuHbWYXv8sP2rHZqEqSfoZdEWrj4vEIDhbjjO9DJG37sZ7iUePkwD046M1PnF4wgreC3McJ-v9MUzH1XV4YMYXp_WJDDCdudwuv_JER6Q/s1600/DSC06327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-6tl_1ku_00uJ9ZS_3bNX7L84qqZoBL0jwYQuHbWYXv8sP2rHZqEqSfoZdEWrj4vEIDhbjjO9DJG37sZ7iUePkwD046M1PnF4wgreC3McJ-v9MUzH1XV4YMYXp_WJDDCdudwuv_JER6Q/s400/DSC06327.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQP9RVRI8sF2m4i1842xW2wAgKCeQejD_WW-lK_003OrXaSJzUu7o6XwHbxfl9X3YlJ6jIchJicdlRnoIzPqDmWa1IJOVXO_4F9nVo-zv_b9b_I9RKn_UhPhlZqfg1uvcwjV8y4F9YY1Tp/s1600/DSC06337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQP9RVRI8sF2m4i1842xW2wAgKCeQejD_WW-lK_003OrXaSJzUu7o6XwHbxfl9X3YlJ6jIchJicdlRnoIzPqDmWa1IJOVXO_4F9nVo-zv_b9b_I9RKn_UhPhlZqfg1uvcwjV8y4F9YY1Tp/s400/DSC06337.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiP7AmLAlZXelx6bL6YoW6Khwpbr4xSZfassIpgeAYX1E0N04Q8YPuliNErYqCrDFr7uAlucCCNgHUkQA8V-ovSyjuzpAp4ncv_aoZF0Dn2cZ9B4O4O5-bJFW9rqWi7k4QiVcawCzXHinE/s1600/DSC06355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiP7AmLAlZXelx6bL6YoW6Khwpbr4xSZfassIpgeAYX1E0N04Q8YPuliNErYqCrDFr7uAlucCCNgHUkQA8V-ovSyjuzpAp4ncv_aoZF0Dn2cZ9B4O4O5-bJFW9rqWi7k4QiVcawCzXHinE/s400/DSC06355.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbnixHTvn2Rnhp2NqNSxEd-atRnqeBIJyWrIDp-fJ4f8dqOUfanjNmWTW0js60cOTJl4TjDCrvv4rX8E3TVxaGsWSmjPUXZKiXn7Jdi9HNZeE6-NXqlw5CPnOkN69DSDk8roi_1gCgLSm/s1600/DSC06364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbnixHTvn2Rnhp2NqNSxEd-atRnqeBIJyWrIDp-fJ4f8dqOUfanjNmWTW0js60cOTJl4TjDCrvv4rX8E3TVxaGsWSmjPUXZKiXn7Jdi9HNZeE6-NXqlw5CPnOkN69DSDk8roi_1gCgLSm/s400/DSC06364.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDInQxjKll2AMPy4K3mpjjZRkHGJ5LYX9X6ymetJx2P-zLd1fwtEje-EbrXsUfiDVvkfjuQqg7W2qoxgPdtGOCh20_QmhBYXduYmZYLLPlG-yPzN_Sb0bnijxWB2_zCICvmBiUpKElez7I/s1600/DSC06375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDInQxjKll2AMPy4K3mpjjZRkHGJ5LYX9X6ymetJx2P-zLd1fwtEje-EbrXsUfiDVvkfjuQqg7W2qoxgPdtGOCh20_QmhBYXduYmZYLLPlG-yPzN_Sb0bnijxWB2_zCICvmBiUpKElez7I/s400/DSC06375.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1AlxXnu3Cu2jznBwqWwIAchLLKxQe6GlLVEtpRreKSIRxzxZopNyw3tTrsiv5dqKslTsy3-AM9F9gMoF5GuMPO6R_Kq6EJPr_OFWLRxLDLaFOWb5Aesgi1UPAY2lTBDkIOzQ4bQMoUZB/s1600/DSC06368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1AlxXnu3Cu2jznBwqWwIAchLLKxQe6GlLVEtpRreKSIRxzxZopNyw3tTrsiv5dqKslTsy3-AM9F9gMoF5GuMPO6R_Kq6EJPr_OFWLRxLDLaFOWb5Aesgi1UPAY2lTBDkIOzQ4bQMoUZB/s400/DSC06368.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I'm getting me an orange!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The entire visit took us about 4 hours. We were too early for our bus back to Seville, so we decided to have dinner at a restaurant just outside Alhambra...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2u7f4ugfS6CPtBoj0ZTxXrmEgiAjWSiqEo9htCEC6OH_Lfr_iDXvW28rARGYEMfnqzbXvdT0Kjl2v-nuK8CEQoYQ5hSo1KzsH1z3vyGZrdXdKKPu8OTMfHKaHA0Bk7KfSey4B11Graau/s1600/20190617_231547+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="950" data-original-width="1600" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2u7f4ugfS6CPtBoj0ZTxXrmEgiAjWSiqEo9htCEC6OH_Lfr_iDXvW28rARGYEMfnqzbXvdT0Kjl2v-nuK8CEQoYQ5hSo1KzsH1z3vyGZrdXdKKPu8OTMfHKaHA0Bk7KfSey4B11Graau/s400/20190617_231547+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoRp3Ax44mr2AtFKA9EDDQ1l8N9jkiUYafOfCwZeMFw6WPccTAC7qZz6UhLZIA_yFmqu1sNt-Exv70ZVHu4RQgiQ5YfmmYLXSRnmNUvf-S8jhRMriSpTW4LUi0bIOp5Pgl2FVF3oZTryQ/s1600/DSC06386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoRp3Ax44mr2AtFKA9EDDQ1l8N9jkiUYafOfCwZeMFw6WPccTAC7qZz6UhLZIA_yFmqu1sNt-Exv70ZVHu4RQgiQ5YfmmYLXSRnmNUvf-S8jhRMriSpTW4LUi0bIOp5Pgl2FVF3oZTryQ/s400/DSC06386.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5tv5BO8f-XOO4fKCdfgpcw2r_CPR0GYJanllLhXP4MSNsuYcaxR5oLjUlzJAqt3bPVMRC-ht15_VYevIHW599hd3JVkW0ieTaB96JvkUfVIRzKGptQV_Yr9RJXkG56ZCePJtryRU8y3H/s1600/DSC06387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit5tv5BO8f-XOO4fKCdfgpcw2r_CPR0GYJanllLhXP4MSNsuYcaxR5oLjUlzJAqt3bPVMRC-ht15_VYevIHW599hd3JVkW0ieTaB96JvkUfVIRzKGptQV_Yr9RJXkG56ZCePJtryRU8y3H/s400/DSC06387.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3mKpL3_yJ5hq7lOP3aXqruy-MEYNPuR-gVkfETw4egt_Ojp8PXHvLJJj8K3E14dH4_B5Uzxo0Lbi96TQmvFHaiy7HQxANNkdI0QkiLmgQes3ii4fes7bqs0EpYOWBCsYLN0dkOm7xXUU/s1600/DSC06388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil3mKpL3_yJ5hq7lOP3aXqruy-MEYNPuR-gVkfETw4egt_Ojp8PXHvLJJj8K3E14dH4_B5Uzxo0Lbi96TQmvFHaiy7HQxANNkdI0QkiLmgQes3ii4fes7bqs0EpYOWBCsYLN0dkOm7xXUU/s400/DSC06388.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
...with the now customary glass of tinto de verano. Wine glasses are de rigueur on the dining table in Spain. From what I've seen, the Spanish drink alcohol at almost every meal and who can blame them? It's ridiculously cheap here and restaurants don't serve water for free. A glass of wine or tinto de verano costs about €3 versus a soft drink or mineral water which is usually around €2.60! We've seen bottles of wine sold at the supermarket for €2.50 each (about S$3.75). It's unbelievable. Once we return to Singapore, I'll never be able to buy our S$20 bottles of wine without wincing.<br />
<br />
Finally, we took a cab back to Granada bus station to catch our 6.30pm return bus to Seville. In case you're wondering, Granada bus station is large, modern and with all the conveniences you need - a cafeteria, clean toilets and so on. We've been very impressed by the Spanish transportation system.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVNUPiENRe80aemRlAQgJlhot8wwAXwM21xmQmUk1iXY52ASeFYpnedyJ-WhNiX3OVsrYFIiElZLxbhG17IdI_Vt8mYNbu2x8_qio8ErD6dNT007EXlHw80IPDMRTMmnnbE7KC3JzuhvL/s1600/20190617_234358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsVNUPiENRe80aemRlAQgJlhot8wwAXwM21xmQmUk1iXY52ASeFYpnedyJ-WhNiX3OVsrYFIiElZLxbhG17IdI_Vt8mYNbu2x8_qio8ErD6dNT007EXlHw80IPDMRTMmnnbE7KC3JzuhvL/s400/20190617_234358.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It was another three-hour trip back to Seville, which went without a hitch. I would say that Alhambra is truly a great cultural experience and well worth a visit. If you don't want to stay overnight in Granada, making it a day trip from Seville is very manageable.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-47952923522875796502019-06-18T19:25:00.000+08:002019-06-18T19:25:03.177+08:00A park of monumental proportions and some horse play<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 8 (Sun, 16 June 2019) Part 2</span><br />
<br />
I felt that the second half of the day warranted a post of its own because we visited the most spectacular park we've ever seen. This is <a href="http://www.andalucia.org/en/cultural-tourism/visits/sevilla/other-visits/parque-de-maria-luisa/" target="_blank">Parque de Maria Luisa</a>, It's a 15-minute walk from our hotel and even though we'd seen pictures of it online, we still weren't prepared for its grandeur.<br />
<br />
From the entrance of the park, you're immediately greeted by the Plaza de Espana which consists of buildings arranged in an expansive semi-circle formation, constructed for the Ibero-American Exposition in 1929. Gorgeous structures, pretty bridges and a man-made lake where boaters (aka tourists) attempt to have a leisurely row. It had a serene, Venice-like vibe about it. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqk1FPLKYMxaQfDsJTEZrpBZQOgHy79PXAFWY0Czhs4HwSDErDE0SjyahZKrRJFiz-9bX2tdpcPOPmPIyJOVwsYXXPUf0L57ME2x7F3CmO4EhP6ROaUhosa6y5AOx3YNRAZTgTDKn-IOY/s1600/DSC05786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioqk1FPLKYMxaQfDsJTEZrpBZQOgHy79PXAFWY0Czhs4HwSDErDE0SjyahZKrRJFiz-9bX2tdpcPOPmPIyJOVwsYXXPUf0L57ME2x7F3CmO4EhP6ROaUhosa6y5AOx3YNRAZTgTDKn-IOY/s400/DSC05786.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSn3Bmc1sOlERYE_gAYAhaj3lFTQ-sgbOFtAHqntdXyWrBOWu-xgipul4e8PU2kazTCouZMI6k6Ar-VgzmRCF8jyuhwP8Y7pRz0Hd19z2nugmKb3tOE4O63ejD1GEjYAHcr4ep_dqXMSWX/s1600/DSC05789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSn3Bmc1sOlERYE_gAYAhaj3lFTQ-sgbOFtAHqntdXyWrBOWu-xgipul4e8PU2kazTCouZMI6k6Ar-VgzmRCF8jyuhwP8Y7pRz0Hd19z2nugmKb3tOE4O63ejD1GEjYAHcr4ep_dqXMSWX/s400/DSC05789.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrmZHj7241LBGkofG748T3cW8wI6gvBlSbnr98AYLD3GZFdkXCgvD3itCe_VwpFM4nRfglkWvc3_JhNp8vzWHpkyFEv5bJgmfqU4NzVQbzV8Cft8OsU_9KKKXrGT2y8SbPeYedz_8StCB/s1600/DSC05840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJrmZHj7241LBGkofG748T3cW8wI6gvBlSbnr98AYLD3GZFdkXCgvD3itCe_VwpFM4nRfglkWvc3_JhNp8vzWHpkyFEv5bJgmfqU4NzVQbzV8Cft8OsU_9KKKXrGT2y8SbPeYedz_8StCB/s400/DSC05840.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSosDJM7O844T36OkgmUBGa2AjrNB4gUXHTBvjfrRW26x6jAYk3QpZsSSUbvLQry_WzPmmDUo0yb7E_En6n_ZlQy71d51-EdD1xsAL5mvsozKPD-MW510bCjwKJKxICgmIo_R-oSk01STS/s1600/DSC05796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSosDJM7O844T36OkgmUBGa2AjrNB4gUXHTBvjfrRW26x6jAYk3QpZsSSUbvLQry_WzPmmDUo0yb7E_En6n_ZlQy71d51-EdD1xsAL5mvsozKPD-MW510bCjwKJKxICgmIo_R-oSk01STS/s400/DSC05796.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In all my years of travel, I've never seen a park like this one. It looks more like a palace! So, so captivating.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMII9FnHO3OR219dKdOy3WV04iQmOJlKhO3_h2Y7sXoL3ZSn6HABxd6CF94s8LVwErGQU5lKxgFshwqzVu8mLHjxmZ8dEECso8eTU1dAc-dySXLXnA_TwCTaAy8FgL23AhKvRDJnffJPS7/s1600/DSC05813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMII9FnHO3OR219dKdOy3WV04iQmOJlKhO3_h2Y7sXoL3ZSn6HABxd6CF94s8LVwErGQU5lKxgFshwqzVu8mLHjxmZ8dEECso8eTU1dAc-dySXLXnA_TwCTaAy8FgL23AhKvRDJnffJPS7/s400/DSC05813.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1avYqa4ebo27YFQVHGCGPN3rqv6FbUGFfkD1jGd5bccrJDHRNFCecS-0AtYWhruzyg_o9qDbmH9leVz8aoT8e10EGd1RRUQsdWAoq1Dp3Vyte_gRg4iNBK-gYdrPasBUUWHeVLQns4i8D/s1600/DSC05814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1avYqa4ebo27YFQVHGCGPN3rqv6FbUGFfkD1jGd5bccrJDHRNFCecS-0AtYWhruzyg_o9qDbmH9leVz8aoT8e10EGd1RRUQsdWAoq1Dp3Vyte_gRg4iNBK-gYdrPasBUUWHeVLQns4i8D/s400/DSC05814.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrd_XXfFDy9TwEpCQZvBzmJhKkLbmbvubz10FFSN2JfSXFdJRUw3Y2sgithKpT45urZYwKppSDc_Y4QitG7A3Yux2xqix9oTp-XuYSlK5oNpvTgw7fU3TGVgxi5Th-rAZzZanQ3Ch1am8/s1600/DSC05823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrd_XXfFDy9TwEpCQZvBzmJhKkLbmbvubz10FFSN2JfSXFdJRUw3Y2sgithKpT45urZYwKppSDc_Y4QitG7A3Yux2xqix9oTp-XuYSlK5oNpvTgw7fU3TGVgxi5Th-rAZzZanQ3Ch1am8/s400/DSC05823.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Once again, the decor and details reflect the Moorish (Muslim) influence in Seville. Intricately painted ceramic tiles, commonly in cool shades of blue, are the preferred design.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ym4ruRKC6B4IPsSnkbfMLwarzMpp94-cnhngZM-7tbpEAYCXd9zxxKFq46H9PGkO1k45fk2_CzBIcST8wujOiVZLbe5JdvCukneSkE8wMw78g1DQBxdHu8Aii3cf0OxWfM8rbYCchp8z/s1600/DSC05860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ym4ruRKC6B4IPsSnkbfMLwarzMpp94-cnhngZM-7tbpEAYCXd9zxxKFq46H9PGkO1k45fk2_CzBIcST8wujOiVZLbe5JdvCukneSkE8wMw78g1DQBxdHu8Aii3cf0OxWfM8rbYCchp8z/s400/DSC05860.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJT6CO2pVcJ8j0wkyQS9DZbiGEmwaRnB7o7QObHE4sp44Hkj8pJXAYlLQgYQS9e-rRcYhD6tzWlmQkNeK071aRH8ARhjq5D2GweAEEK_mZHPAIoxSrS2ADNMTLBQsMSe3bs7N64196pzF/s1600/DSC05862+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJT6CO2pVcJ8j0wkyQS9DZbiGEmwaRnB7o7QObHE4sp44Hkj8pJXAYlLQgYQS9e-rRcYhD6tzWlmQkNeK071aRH8ARhjq5D2GweAEEK_mZHPAIoxSrS2ADNMTLBQsMSe3bs7N64196pzF/s400/DSC05862+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRcfRTkiGnxEX33y1akw6UlcrQtga4BOz6lSgE4GUlaiFvdmfc12ZZt_EguYRyaDmotxvRWfmcOVTfxYpP4Ew-TCLIJlpIfXXgVVTdDZDccVMM67CSiD_Oc79P8QJQf8LZsTSv2mOuTt8/s1600/DSC05856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvRcfRTkiGnxEX33y1akw6UlcrQtga4BOz6lSgE4GUlaiFvdmfc12ZZt_EguYRyaDmotxvRWfmcOVTfxYpP4Ew-TCLIJlpIfXXgVVTdDZDccVMM67CSiD_Oc79P8QJQf8LZsTSv2mOuTt8/s400/DSC05856.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The park has pockets of scenic greenery, thoughtfully arranged to give postcard-quality photos. I could spend all day here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMB5phQz4-scaTjt3PU6YsIVbvrKegn4y9irmo2Jk6I56tnc7V1B4sxZsPR5W1zH0B67jqNr47CTRD5FKZeH9U4kR1oCPObPkWG_aCEA13LBcD7iOWLD6F6csBodvZ6Qpwn9P_u8amDhRs/s1600/DSC05870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMB5phQz4-scaTjt3PU6YsIVbvrKegn4y9irmo2Jk6I56tnc7V1B4sxZsPR5W1zH0B67jqNr47CTRD5FKZeH9U4kR1oCPObPkWG_aCEA13LBcD7iOWLD6F6csBodvZ6Qpwn9P_u8amDhRs/s400/DSC05870.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We walked to another part of the park - Plaza de America, also created for the 1929 expo. More gaping and jaw dropping. It looks like a set for Aladdin, the movie. Can you picture Princess Jasmine strolling through the gardens with her tiger? I can.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0UX5I65aNYd3RUVsXCOUyxqi9l0PhB5oFcfxqwcMU6-yhRiqOrcVPrsb0FrApxFURk7LApcOZVDMUzTtmSVYSQs6G2b4kFTNTAez5NV8_rkeENFsWqCIgZ-67XNHN9GWXSJ9jC-iozcm/s1600/DSC05884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0UX5I65aNYd3RUVsXCOUyxqi9l0PhB5oFcfxqwcMU6-yhRiqOrcVPrsb0FrApxFURk7LApcOZVDMUzTtmSVYSQs6G2b4kFTNTAez5NV8_rkeENFsWqCIgZ-67XNHN9GWXSJ9jC-iozcm/s400/DSC05884.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq22gzveBtj4zhxyLkKFkbYcQWi8nbgfy668ECSbNh1s3427eudX0-acpILCANWcOf_WdmgHBa-1z5Qy5kM8nZ-wrAQZAxa6CssMdInkBLZvX0Nl8VgHPAYr0DrZknMAJ6d7c1rjh49gE3/s1600/DSC05891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq22gzveBtj4zhxyLkKFkbYcQWi8nbgfy668ECSbNh1s3427eudX0-acpILCANWcOf_WdmgHBa-1z5Qy5kM8nZ-wrAQZAxa6CssMdInkBLZvX0Nl8VgHPAYr0DrZknMAJ6d7c1rjh49gE3/s400/DSC05891.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuGs0Kjp_uZ-F9MPsYOrVEaOHwcJq6vGIW6G2enYkaz1fE8k3ERO4W_QuA11HaNKfHO7jwPJjpE51h9NRf0rpzgAfjvZdEN9XgBdh1oPAVnCGa5zMf5SD1VRyAeJt69cOOtXZJ6k6531y/s1600/DSC05873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuGs0Kjp_uZ-F9MPsYOrVEaOHwcJq6vGIW6G2enYkaz1fE8k3ERO4W_QuA11HaNKfHO7jwPJjpE51h9NRf0rpzgAfjvZdEN9XgBdh1oPAVnCGa5zMf5SD1VRyAeJt69cOOtXZJ6k6531y/s400/DSC05873.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Best. Park. Ever.<br />
<br />
By the late afternoon, we were getting pretty tired as we'd had a long day and walked a lot. Walking back to the hotel would take at least half an hour or so (we were deep inside the park), and the thought of it was pretty daunting. At first, we thought we would cab back to the hotel, then we saw an elegant horse and carriage parked under a shady spot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEnuObSM6TDxhpLcIHL3GrAN3XRe1DbqME4Frt1yyh5ylY9SJ9QpYriRkTernd-iX95tHDedQuGSMYttlNHI74Zfk3ZQ72rGl0bGJUiBNaxNKrJnIj10WY7BlRoVQE1HCr0Mda2p6IwIr/s1600/DSC05895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEnuObSM6TDxhpLcIHL3GrAN3XRe1DbqME4Frt1yyh5ylY9SJ9QpYriRkTernd-iX95tHDedQuGSMYttlNHI74Zfk3ZQ72rGl0bGJUiBNaxNKrJnIj10WY7BlRoVQE1HCr0Mda2p6IwIr/s400/DSC05895.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Side note: Seville has one unique feature and that's the horse and carriage. You find them around all the major tourist attractions, such as at the cathedral in this photo:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_RdmBCXZSw7hcm5m02b_-mMbSdv_h7qrj5ZoVrAut-Kta5EbZj_TMKOymJ5dS0tRO6LFOhD10ZKHeVlEhwO21csxsqVFc1n5Zqf938Jh_kP57aaIYTXehzd809nWYXzTFB5gbQh_gbPb/s1600/DSC05776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_RdmBCXZSw7hcm5m02b_-mMbSdv_h7qrj5ZoVrAut-Kta5EbZj_TMKOymJ5dS0tRO6LFOhD10ZKHeVlEhwO21csxsqVFc1n5Zqf938Jh_kP57aaIYTXehzd809nWYXzTFB5gbQh_gbPb/s400/DSC05776.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We spoke to the driver and arranged to be brought all the way back to the cathedral area. By the way, the horses here don't just travel on pavements - they go right onto the roads and trot next to traffic. (They don't always obey traffic lights, though!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACXVshzYDSJdnFw6xHpQNynTWFzrnCT_lejfyad-LHlFA11tYVBRPYnJ4KFqOq2xEiDdTJcZRDVDPmaRYqC1_lOEl5hgM9UK4IFyCv0WEjkRt7uytfyL3-o80nA7rfAcO-wcD0Guz5Okm/s1600/DSC05905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgACXVshzYDSJdnFw6xHpQNynTWFzrnCT_lejfyad-LHlFA11tYVBRPYnJ4KFqOq2xEiDdTJcZRDVDPmaRYqC1_lOEl5hgM9UK4IFyCv0WEjkRt7uytfyL3-o80nA7rfAcO-wcD0Guz5Okm/s400/DSC05905.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We dubbed our horse the Fast and Furious racehorse because it overtook a couple of others, much to the amusement of the other carriage drivers. I'm quite impressed that the horses don't get spooked by loud vehicles zooming past them on narrow roads.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57-NxLjwGhRyIH0ENVZKNSQ6heZ0A8KAo4BipUnqg5RkrFUHTOaEOsyYfiSwETKqXenUWlHrpjsVviBuw49RUCOALFknR1yOsvG9LRVYY-IDhIzLxwxrL-25tbC1Ji8Ye2c5Bu7kVox89/s1600/DSC05899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57-NxLjwGhRyIH0ENVZKNSQ6heZ0A8KAo4BipUnqg5RkrFUHTOaEOsyYfiSwETKqXenUWlHrpjsVviBuw49RUCOALFknR1yOsvG9LRVYY-IDhIzLxwxrL-25tbC1Ji8Ye2c5Bu7kVox89/s400/DSC05899.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTpZrtFCzqHpQTd4jwKOKruQgo9HKUFi82fbyBQrhQYtbzsMKx4mw71nInGgk0jt5s934jAY91rnqwK15ZeqWe8f8J27RKazDcgrnBrD-f8fvE08egqzbBDqh6R5siXEtkMQHv59tI6DY/s1600/DSC05909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTpZrtFCzqHpQTd4jwKOKruQgo9HKUFi82fbyBQrhQYtbzsMKx4mw71nInGgk0jt5s934jAY91rnqwK15ZeqWe8f8J27RKazDcgrnBrD-f8fvE08egqzbBDqh6R5siXEtkMQHv59tI6DY/s400/DSC05909.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
More pricey than taking a cab, but oh, so worth it. It was a unique experience and we enjoyed it a heck of a lot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWLSjJ56lFWLj7FpYS8hfFtIhz-TU98CqLoF-_VurLT4y-j0Io_gz-bcjGVEUGAmEfwayqwgVzzjskZ3yQ3wdGtVuof_St1tA41A2_OcjyXkq_pd_ps19Ns8qNEtMgE1nHzatr-b7sUlJ/s1600/DSC05923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWLSjJ56lFWLj7FpYS8hfFtIhz-TU98CqLoF-_VurLT4y-j0Io_gz-bcjGVEUGAmEfwayqwgVzzjskZ3yQ3wdGtVuof_St1tA41A2_OcjyXkq_pd_ps19Ns8qNEtMgE1nHzatr-b7sUlJ/s400/DSC05923.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5qFbmWAh6f_4jM3-OvEnNUQOGQjqsCh20PMVhmWkVEvIAaGJJJKI-i3kh9-lcHXa_lb4ebpt0lGCta0EH__zhY_WUt943kPJ7i9ae3FkUPV5AiHJsvaS8fZWqH37BqwkSHN0WuTAjlWS/s1600/DSC05928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN5qFbmWAh6f_4jM3-OvEnNUQOGQjqsCh20PMVhmWkVEvIAaGJJJKI-i3kh9-lcHXa_lb4ebpt0lGCta0EH__zhY_WUt943kPJ7i9ae3FkUPV5AiHJsvaS8fZWqH37BqwkSHN0WuTAjlWS/s400/DSC05928.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After that long day, we didn't want to have to think too hard about dinner, so we simply returned to La Azotea. We ordered a couple of different items from yesterday. All were perfectly delicious.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBDMtNMbie1wdWj9ARCuG1KKPhsuDAMS1wi27Kmuyt5xj_76yNus2nrZjDww-0zDRDqOUhtRI3QJG2fET4HhyphenhyphenT8umo_J-yCWqp5AGFpUFyExAaqJuhTq6_UDQzubdGpRGoPoA_vzGKiBV/s1600/DSC06103+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1057" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnBDMtNMbie1wdWj9ARCuG1KKPhsuDAMS1wi27Kmuyt5xj_76yNus2nrZjDww-0zDRDqOUhtRI3QJG2fET4HhyphenhyphenT8umo_J-yCWqp5AGFpUFyExAaqJuhTq6_UDQzubdGpRGoPoA_vzGKiBV/s400/DSC06103+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mushroom and cheese risotto</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jB8v-Q678HZ_qk58hfqyX3kvZ_oAl9BNV80Q4etmEE22KVufjHv2T59dduakeL4tYMj6jR_3ZLl6OBR4GcojIIhBvFswKkLbVyyKAfBL7a9F1If2xg6ro7-Oyie8VEyjmtAnOVImrrvd/s1600/DSC06107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7jB8v-Q678HZ_qk58hfqyX3kvZ_oAl9BNV80Q4etmEE22KVufjHv2T59dduakeL4tYMj6jR_3ZLl6OBR4GcojIIhBvFswKkLbVyyKAfBL7a9F1If2xg6ro7-Oyie8VEyjmtAnOVImrrvd/s400/DSC06107.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork cheeks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoKgcKM5aiV8IC6yuPDhECmcxHuOmvzB0koFMvPAILhU0qKFXwvuz5hbPMlYtKXrl6PeFbGeB0pQrqr8-9iy9f22Af85_lIQwhrawQudwEErdC4naBSo58NAt5V-vylzTiSB8HvYUSVsC/s1600/DSC06109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoKgcKM5aiV8IC6yuPDhECmcxHuOmvzB0koFMvPAILhU0qKFXwvuz5hbPMlYtKXrl6PeFbGeB0pQrqr8-9iy9f22Af85_lIQwhrawQudwEErdC4naBSo58NAt5V-vylzTiSB8HvYUSVsC/s400/DSC06109.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oxtail meatballs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bkKtXc7kEGTbE3V-Cbo1OXIjNaKgain7fu0lOyCj4NRkTtwF365XxJFLzYLGMWuj_-D3-JJHjZPNK9atvICtMzA5_kBku8f-j_Uh4pCwGZOiGtpxTkjsCKlPBUY4YJiJ_xfS0KSySBqc/s1600/DSC06111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1bkKtXc7kEGTbE3V-Cbo1OXIjNaKgain7fu0lOyCj4NRkTtwF365XxJFLzYLGMWuj_-D3-JJHjZPNK9atvICtMzA5_kBku8f-j_Uh4pCwGZOiGtpxTkjsCKlPBUY4YJiJ_xfS0KSySBqc/s400/DSC06111.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate coulant with vanilla ice cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Without doubt, Spain has some of the best cuisines we've ever tasted. It's a haven for foodies.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-9266859392593901112019-06-18T07:08:00.000+08:002019-06-21T21:11:45.801+08:00Church and state - Cathedral and Royal Alcazar <span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 8 (Sun, 16 June 2019) Part 1</span><br />
<br />
Today was an attractions-heavy day with so many great photos that I thought it best to split the post into two, so as not to cause any loading problems.<br />
<br />
We'd decided to join a free walking tour, as recommended by our hotel reception, as they do a pickup at our hotel. Free walking tours are terrific - basically the organisers lead you around the city, and at the end, you decide how much you want to tip the guide. These guides are usually students or enthusiastic citizens, and you can feel their passion as they share their knowledge about their beloved city. The one we joined was the purple umbrella group.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjiBS2vk2RqpX06dXE_TtV9d81QXhUsO4IAQhHtdPIksakGzadRgjRkkbXsyNoyvPYu7hvpcyrKlQK8OX9PMCc8veZ_EcSRfqJdPIe2GzfBJ_mNVqyh8Q4HcaRT9M9vAYt4Tbvs9fRkgA/s1600/DSC05684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcjiBS2vk2RqpX06dXE_TtV9d81QXhUsO4IAQhHtdPIksakGzadRgjRkkbXsyNoyvPYu7hvpcyrKlQK8OX9PMCc8veZ_EcSRfqJdPIe2GzfBJ_mNVqyh8Q4HcaRT9M9vAYt4Tbvs9fRkgA/s400/DSC05684.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We joined the tour only for the Seville cathedral. A fascinating piece of info from our guide, Manu, was that the cathedral (as well as the adjacent Alcazar), was originally a mosque! It was built by the Muslims who occupied Seville in the 12th century. However, when Ferdinand III invaded Seville, he was so astonished by the splendour of the cathedral that he didn't destroy it, as was typical of conquerers back then (thank goodness!) Recognising it as a gorgeous piece of architecture, he merely put crosses everywhere and commissioned statues and paintings of saints to "christianise" the structure and turn it into a cathedral. LOL.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo38b89hFq5mgvMchKZzxa7dCysUVSUSBPSgZRbtXGHwn6y7vQ83dogWIffN9DA3SHg2IkEV26emVzR42FikVVumd8uT9Bc3Xs6GtgRNSH1xbBZyhHPkCy0arorNuE-PQCeUfJb6qc2A27/s1600/DSC05657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo38b89hFq5mgvMchKZzxa7dCysUVSUSBPSgZRbtXGHwn6y7vQ83dogWIffN9DA3SHg2IkEV26emVzR42FikVVumd8uT9Bc3Xs6GtgRNSH1xbBZyhHPkCy0arorNuE-PQCeUfJb6qc2A27/s400/DSC05657.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iXezxwBjZLfALUPJzqo4DKYG1pva8_k3Wgq_r9deoH8v7lPp6CKOYIX57vF8P3c6dmUxeXeFBlexs5gO11Jh2LAZLyz6csevKqUv7KlfRzmGYehbdG-LxXpUgY4FK8wQVt5LVPWknPJq/s1600/DSC05714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_iXezxwBjZLfALUPJzqo4DKYG1pva8_k3Wgq_r9deoH8v7lPp6CKOYIX57vF8P3c6dmUxeXeFBlexs5gO11Jh2LAZLyz6csevKqUv7KlfRzmGYehbdG-LxXpUgY4FK8wQVt5LVPWknPJq/s400/DSC05714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUFfkqoMHwXPRUlyrsDOMlQqP-lv2ILlZ-aunQ-VgBdANQTUw6YM8vsBDNe6nJ6T73GsGu0AFxoT_fCXSeXHRJHv3EFEjo6LY32320RKfrtElB_Rmr75qS69r-YSBfg3iw5yFVUCtsfTpV/s1600/DSC05700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUFfkqoMHwXPRUlyrsDOMlQqP-lv2ILlZ-aunQ-VgBdANQTUw6YM8vsBDNe6nJ6T73GsGu0AFxoT_fCXSeXHRJHv3EFEjo6LY32320RKfrtElB_Rmr75qS69r-YSBfg3iw5yFVUCtsfTpV/s400/DSC05700.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It explains why a lot of the design details look Middle Eastern. It's a gorgeous cathedral - the third largest in the world (the largest is Saint Peter's in Rome). The bell tower, called Giralda, was previously the minaret of the mosque. Carved at the top are the words "Proverb 18", which state that "The name of the Lord is a fortified tower". It was believed that the bell tower was so high that one could speak to God up there.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg470eijUZdu6xrdawTH1GRjccbG6yLXqW-n6x8yQogi3Twkyn7b5Ehz8OqiZuim7eNCn4n2J9tWsnKQCT0Pjk-zrmSpGzNVazusKAW98IlPisQk9nJyBtcy-xrzd4Uhk4T9InF9KYVRto/s1600/DSC05708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg470eijUZdu6xrdawTH1GRjccbG6yLXqW-n6x8yQogi3Twkyn7b5Ehz8OqiZuim7eNCn4n2J9tWsnKQCT0Pjk-zrmSpGzNVazusKAW98IlPisQk9nJyBtcy-xrzd4Uhk4T9InF9KYVRto/s400/DSC05708.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
After the visit to the cathedral, we went to <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187443-d3200604-Reviews-La_Brunilda-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html" target="_blank">La Brunilda</a> for a spot of lunch. Andre did most of the food research for this trip and this was one of the must-go to places on his list. It's a tapas restaurant and only opens from 1-4pm on Sundays. We arrived just before 1pm and there was already a line!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wY0OgmvaE5tbpJEwzkWGKuccmBjWoww2L5ZlGZWEBJ81k_bgNIMMp7uOTJxZHRk5MLoD80Mg0t_HS9gjIt6qGjRzbAjf3C1Wsg8sAx2ghJJr384x9dkwEPYZYiA0rne4oEF6X3QpQUk4/s1600/DSC05741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wY0OgmvaE5tbpJEwzkWGKuccmBjWoww2L5ZlGZWEBJ81k_bgNIMMp7uOTJxZHRk5MLoD80Mg0t_HS9gjIt6qGjRzbAjf3C1Wsg8sAx2ghJJr384x9dkwEPYZYiA0rne4oEF6X3QpQUk4/s400/DSC05741.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Luckily we managed to get a table and here's what we ordered:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxaNGb4OywCa1_d2cNFBWiv0VH9tFx3fYpTZ6lN0QSv6rRYtI6kxfcyuivNWE3UwqwdBfevflytxnm-p9Wl_Enp_mKkIMgX43XRYoynIcpc148zg0ZOXSYZG0Bup0d7qo7X91p_si7oPX/s1600/20190616_131935+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="1600" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpxaNGb4OywCa1_d2cNFBWiv0VH9tFx3fYpTZ6lN0QSv6rRYtI6kxfcyuivNWE3UwqwdBfevflytxnm-p9Wl_Enp_mKkIMgX43XRYoynIcpc148zg0ZOXSYZG0Bup0d7qo7X91p_si7oPX/s400/20190616_131935+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squid and egg with breadcrumbs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik3ED4qv3ql9kyMTnSqfx_pg5JEdV_wpBF63V0F_kB9GEq_52Ou7kqLLaFM6Nmqn9sP0iR8DOkLeXdHxMk3rLXCZoit3P0uLP2n64K3OgtOv68KUSkS3e-Ewo_mWugnO2e1FEuQ-UISaEz/s1600/DSC05758+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="1600" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik3ED4qv3ql9kyMTnSqfx_pg5JEdV_wpBF63V0F_kB9GEq_52Ou7kqLLaFM6Nmqn9sP0iR8DOkLeXdHxMk3rLXCZoit3P0uLP2n64K3OgtOv68KUSkS3e-Ewo_mWugnO2e1FEuQ-UISaEz/s400/DSC05758+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini burger with soy chips</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hRLIlkyeaSJDgL53ezELPHz3sfHSwDBC6ygxrRPpzX2bvfOhyphenhypheno7X4sNlpa75vRsLmhWP-yHjPY2l9y7QytxnpmmNzrs0SJVQ6zK6q9-4LMLYKLrMd5RYsG3EuVRrGIrido7ESyCK76HH/s1600/DSC05763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hRLIlkyeaSJDgL53ezELPHz3sfHSwDBC6ygxrRPpzX2bvfOhyphenhypheno7X4sNlpa75vRsLmhWP-yHjPY2l9y7QytxnpmmNzrs0SJVQ6zK6q9-4LMLYKLrMd5RYsG3EuVRrGIrido7ESyCK76HH/s400/DSC05763.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tenderloin and potatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8TdAYFxGiw7x61VRB3C-K2c6SU5nGAFPY4yxJzp7Hy8ukggBAyOHskm6olVElGCjH0MK4v_0nA-zdVGx5-DqkqOfpmtcVtnrFsyX0_CgpxnhEenpV_svrN1waYpZBYcXWOt-685WMwgm/s1600/DSC05769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8TdAYFxGiw7x61VRB3C-K2c6SU5nGAFPY4yxJzp7Hy8ukggBAyOHskm6olVElGCjH0MK4v_0nA-zdVGx5-DqkqOfpmtcVtnrFsyX0_CgpxnhEenpV_svrN1waYpZBYcXWOt-685WMwgm/s400/DSC05769.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hake with spinach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnho7LcW4fhPq7NpdwwgBhjW-paW3gBsGkLsVPf1iA2As6hn-T8Y525vkBKbWYh09SJ3bB2eDl9EUlp1eXZhuqSbb6DRUC24kWpyQw5UYBADMlJXqJ0LhGEyFNSB9iIZzkGwv2Bq1fMB6/s1600/DSC05751+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1600" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnho7LcW4fhPq7NpdwwgBhjW-paW3gBsGkLsVPf1iA2As6hn-T8Y525vkBKbWYh09SJ3bB2eDl9EUlp1eXZhuqSbb6DRUC24kWpyQw5UYBADMlJXqJ0LhGEyFNSB9iIZzkGwv2Bq1fMB6/s400/DSC05751+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duck confit with carrot puree</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There were some misses (the burger was unmemorable and the squid dish a little flat, but the hits were right out of the ballpark. That duck confit was exceptional and that hake! I think I've found my favourite white fish. Their portions are crazy generous - apart from the duck confit, the others were all tapas sizes. No wonder the restaurant is so popular (we saw many Asian tourists there, some even dragging their luggage to the restaurant!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnYT1XQlhyphenhyphenxn3DmKgFRP07OXuLss9T-no_LbtbyPNsrrVwHdkEYsIOf5em8nK8PSrhAYtBfYSOpCFuiTmOx2tLvK1mF_3u70iYs58wHu5MUocarGswzi6U0uf_qdSlByY4VmYBAbYFV8_/s1600/20190616_132705+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnYT1XQlhyphenhyphenxn3DmKgFRP07OXuLss9T-no_LbtbyPNsrrVwHdkEYsIOf5em8nK8PSrhAYtBfYSOpCFuiTmOx2tLvK1mF_3u70iYs58wHu5MUocarGswzi6U0uf_qdSlByY4VmYBAbYFV8_/s400/20190616_132705+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After lunch, we paid a visit to the Royal Alcazar, which is right next to the cathedral. It's the royal palace of Seville, again original built by the Muslims, and is the oldest palace in the Western world still being used. This is the official residence of the Spanish royal family when they're in Seville.<br />
<br />
It's truly magnificent. It's very middle eastern in style, with open courtyards, fountains and palm trees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUOhZl-oJJjAm5j8BZ5e2ELFIFwvtuBhWVY_oHLPeRR82dO9qnApV0H_mctG-_VRoKBYeOIU5oJEYS7Ol0MQPtmoAjlVO94UqTgW7BjWYaMG01WAr_hkQW2N4euRxpE6Gm1WKv3hw8nRR/s1600/DSC05961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUOhZl-oJJjAm5j8BZ5e2ELFIFwvtuBhWVY_oHLPeRR82dO9qnApV0H_mctG-_VRoKBYeOIU5oJEYS7Ol0MQPtmoAjlVO94UqTgW7BjWYaMG01WAr_hkQW2N4euRxpE6Gm1WKv3hw8nRR/s400/DSC05961.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVp1G34kNa1mpPDoxqxeVkGMWr1LfuV9c4VfNa8weLKDtgfq4PDQuB3gevhEDx9vtt_Wws3aZsME97oKyba6BU6J9KYe5SveTrd7KDN1FBI_Q93hbQSqcA7bjhr9HDQjFXbAHO-bgVUAS/s1600/DSC05969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVp1G34kNa1mpPDoxqxeVkGMWr1LfuV9c4VfNa8weLKDtgfq4PDQuB3gevhEDx9vtt_Wws3aZsME97oKyba6BU6J9KYe5SveTrd7KDN1FBI_Q93hbQSqcA7bjhr9HDQjFXbAHO-bgVUAS/s400/DSC05969.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The decor is exquisite - with intricate carvings and vibrant tiles. Utterly breath-taking.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pAQYqdWWDj_qxRjuTOZT8Y5x6zfHLz6xJdXkLl2uS2H_xEdWGUpt4i49A_9Sbixho2Th7bfjqhSl5ZXjoUlu9FfAuh0ACu7VzWjnz5nA9s9OZyxrYzSHheMdQWroOFDGr_wEyHpDTHqF/s1600/DSC05978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pAQYqdWWDj_qxRjuTOZT8Y5x6zfHLz6xJdXkLl2uS2H_xEdWGUpt4i49A_9Sbixho2Th7bfjqhSl5ZXjoUlu9FfAuh0ACu7VzWjnz5nA9s9OZyxrYzSHheMdQWroOFDGr_wEyHpDTHqF/s400/DSC05978.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BK3v-SWUBq5fAr4z8uAkXKKKDI9i5gZuK4iZNJCscQoeZ5Cs0R_R348GuFKy5jbRU4uWvRuzmvZbKDha9dvxsXn52hgz9RFtOSqVat1igabSyWqWJoz7-vVtBIM2O3WAZ8IesUVE8h_F/s1600/DSC05993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BK3v-SWUBq5fAr4z8uAkXKKKDI9i5gZuK4iZNJCscQoeZ5Cs0R_R348GuFKy5jbRU4uWvRuzmvZbKDha9dvxsXn52hgz9RFtOSqVat1igabSyWqWJoz7-vVtBIM2O3WAZ8IesUVE8h_F/s400/DSC05993.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzENR_kO4nWhhn52VfuABwImKdfItvPmoo9joXCy7sIH8asfwUGMbA3ZNU2iHkhbYRJdNEE2g9oPuX8lKBQF0vKNICFb4a9TiROQjDTfp8xqiPDrY9WcRJAiNqq9bUEm52mu_A1oe2qHN/s1600/DSC05998.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtzENR_kO4nWhhn52VfuABwImKdfItvPmoo9joXCy7sIH8asfwUGMbA3ZNU2iHkhbYRJdNEE2g9oPuX8lKBQF0vKNICFb4a9TiROQjDTfp8xqiPDrY9WcRJAiNqq9bUEm52mu_A1oe2qHN/s400/DSC05998.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-Rn9ycNof61f8icRl3R5YKJLVn0KvWQ2IlOLRI86SejCGEVoqlBJfSjGQH2rN4m-2ARD8wwjAe95xTtfjN_nPV4mVaMUMNOJsEOBMgd1pKLTnVOT29c2ktcqS2qZEUKzPKpnh521M26Y/s1600/DSC05954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0-Rn9ycNof61f8icRl3R5YKJLVn0KvWQ2IlOLRI86SejCGEVoqlBJfSjGQH2rN4m-2ARD8wwjAe95xTtfjN_nPV4mVaMUMNOJsEOBMgd1pKLTnVOT29c2ktcqS2qZEUKzPKpnh521M26Y/s400/DSC05954.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbSs8iHueAquQ-m0Jr5jvLewcZ7v5aCL576IgT2uKvRJN_E1ZYrKllwa5HWcPX67zIbwgX-RQ_Dk0NHqS55Fly-zILaE8YORUHQBXsbzV28mSTK_EqNB4WhDhNPyutq4P7S-AZ5rgbz2e/s1600/DSC06023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipbSs8iHueAquQ-m0Jr5jvLewcZ7v5aCL576IgT2uKvRJN_E1ZYrKllwa5HWcPX67zIbwgX-RQ_Dk0NHqS55Fly-zILaE8YORUHQBXsbzV28mSTK_EqNB4WhDhNPyutq4P7S-AZ5rgbz2e/s400/DSC06023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The gardens within the Alcazar are gorgeous as well. If you find the Alcazar familiar, it may be because you recognise it from the many movies and tv series it has been featured as a setting, including Game of Thrones (as the House of Martell in Dorne in season 5).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-hc3SWDvdsveO3hZ8a9n4V0DAELVjP8JJHuVg7Vjg8Kq8jWrW4AdXquT9uGB_wIYlJNSb1qY6tnpO1dk3TZvSypJPZwO2BEt_-LrvJzzm2_X0YaHpUW4Hr0qTaeF0kOvGz_K5FUfmv_u/s1600/DSC06037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-hc3SWDvdsveO3hZ8a9n4V0DAELVjP8JJHuVg7Vjg8Kq8jWrW4AdXquT9uGB_wIYlJNSb1qY6tnpO1dk3TZvSypJPZwO2BEt_-LrvJzzm2_X0YaHpUW4Hr0qTaeF0kOvGz_K5FUfmv_u/s400/DSC06037.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdQKhLraCS6srhHd8P-q5b_jq7zJsKvkCfA1Pq7bhXPy2Fb4YThgYGD1GpMzUEoIwyGu__CGHtfFfGJYcBc8KdcnB9oBAB4Qz7zBHkUvKBEqiBjWRM6PDcsymcmcz5jCbQVO4xfJNBWrd/s1600/DSC06046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdQKhLraCS6srhHd8P-q5b_jq7zJsKvkCfA1Pq7bhXPy2Fb4YThgYGD1GpMzUEoIwyGu__CGHtfFfGJYcBc8KdcnB9oBAB4Qz7zBHkUvKBEqiBjWRM6PDcsymcmcz5jCbQVO4xfJNBWrd/s400/DSC06046.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraPuaPXh05gjDjCiPjkj-kVqk0Nr8ip21kxhnlsk3ojyHx8AqS5CqM1D6TcAwBGGsF3LSIBXaxMCXappgUts6ucjRvPLwRU3NjbZloGVHd9YLqwVLgnB7-H03xgDj-Kud0SYstVJ60kDW/s1600/DSC06059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraPuaPXh05gjDjCiPjkj-kVqk0Nr8ip21kxhnlsk3ojyHx8AqS5CqM1D6TcAwBGGsF3LSIBXaxMCXappgUts6ucjRvPLwRU3NjbZloGVHd9YLqwVLgnB7-H03xgDj-Kud0SYstVJ60kDW/s400/DSC06059.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Part 2 to be continued!<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-62671734651719782442019-06-17T04:32:00.000+08:002019-06-21T21:15:05.488+08:00Seville - home of the bullfight and flamenco<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 7 (Sat, 15 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iA8wJUnK6rPru8676cXLZ9Jx_Qx8UrEDzRr4b1Fs4SwHEgxD80XnbPfWfz6czepOL37hI4M4AFwF_wYxEY1_aZ7zu_rTj5GjeBQi1x1ag5rWCZtPo_nS7z3pdy_xIOrYWZ0eHkZpDGqi/s1600/20190615_110658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8iA8wJUnK6rPru8676cXLZ9Jx_Qx8UrEDzRr4b1Fs4SwHEgxD80XnbPfWfz6czepOL37hI4M4AFwF_wYxEY1_aZ7zu_rTj5GjeBQi1x1ag5rWCZtPo_nS7z3pdy_xIOrYWZ0eHkZpDGqi/s200/20190615_110658.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
We're off to Seville! Seville is in the south of Spain and Barcelona in the north, so we made the decision to take a domestic flight via <a href="https://www.vueling.com/en/?ef_id=EAIaIQobChMI57Crv8i44gIVDCUrCh05fgyOEAAYASAAEgKMv_D_BwE:G:s&cadw=GLO&mkwid=s060VNXQS_dc|pcrid|187243409936|pkw|vueling|pmt|e|slid||pgrid|1939773128|ptaid|kwd-582525849&SBR=SBR4026&utm_medium=Branded_Search&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI57Crv8i44gIVDCUrCh05fgyOEAAYASAAEgKMv_D_BwE" target="_blank">Vueling</a>, a Spanish airline. Fast trains are expensive in Spain, and taking a domestic flight is often cheaper. In addition, it's faster - the flight took just 1.5 hours vs a 6-hour train ride.<br />
<br />
We'd booked ourselves into another Petit Palace, this time in <a href="https://en.petitpalacemarquessantaana.com/" target="_blank">Petit Palace Marques Santa Ana</a>. We'd taken a cab from the airport to our hotel and were astonished when the taxi turned into this very narrow road to reach our hotel!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYingfN-LPJG8hPAktZSNOUepvYCTyJ9lA1EdV6ZWRmkfPWPWawFfhU7rWAG6W-ITQG1XXq6r1W6R0yaQujhrvVEDeQpYTr5Ob7B2hD0oX-QINFN1MOcltZO4VZ3xpsODy2aklKgwhdys/s1600/20190616_005828+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYingfN-LPJG8hPAktZSNOUepvYCTyJ9lA1EdV6ZWRmkfPWPWawFfhU7rWAG6W-ITQG1XXq6r1W6R0yaQujhrvVEDeQpYTr5Ob7B2hD0oX-QINFN1MOcltZO4VZ3xpsODy2aklKgwhdys/s320/20190616_005828+ed.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
I'd mentioned that in Spain, the roads for vehicles and pavements for pedestrians often blend into one, but I think this has reached an art form in Seville. Cars squeeze into the most impossible alleyways and pedestrians scramble to get out of the way.<br />
<br />
Our hotel opens up onto that narrow road itself, but it's absolutely fabulous. Right in the centre of the city and just around the corner (250 metres or so) from the cathedral.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Fv70VUbuPhjDxSZY__HNaNNblwJN4WjwrpnN98bN5cZ0ZRwxSn_XOmSKqSSxgML2niSGd-YcoPIhxE_D8zxwCdHw7-4qsq5G-OjF5g6ZrEzyMvIjVJQXTSm7pPAGU8gXVIQXx3PoNxHf/s1600/DSC05640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Fv70VUbuPhjDxSZY__HNaNNblwJN4WjwrpnN98bN5cZ0ZRwxSn_XOmSKqSSxgML2niSGd-YcoPIhxE_D8zxwCdHw7-4qsq5G-OjF5g6ZrEzyMvIjVJQXTSm7pPAGU8gXVIQXx3PoNxHf/s400/DSC05640.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdTRuW4Eouli957Dme81kGqzgMDFoS86eFVUZ8En0ivC0BLRB4aGmkrv7Yxafsh1-gVVNubS7OJ4aEKFP8K-otaaJ7XtOlHIgh92_BxrZMQct2SLsty1Xc4gWBbW5l0SDqo4rdfVs0iTE/s1600/DSC05645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqdTRuW4Eouli957Dme81kGqzgMDFoS86eFVUZ8En0ivC0BLRB4aGmkrv7Yxafsh1-gVVNubS7OJ4aEKFP8K-otaaJ7XtOlHIgh92_BxrZMQct2SLsty1Xc4gWBbW5l0SDqo4rdfVs0iTE/s400/DSC05645.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The room is similar to the one we had in Madrid, even slightly larger. The bathroom is enormous! It even has a bidet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mfGKAmollpOfjdxik4_3PdYz-d-U-kTgVxsBN09Ozqn_V8SenNg_wUC0oC_T9x0rphIXkEYApBUiPeEcswfkdXbX09Ley1rPKAzrdH6NhbZRg_ieoB089Pe8GnQcRE0T_sw1MhaA-o8h/s1600/DSC05526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mfGKAmollpOfjdxik4_3PdYz-d-U-kTgVxsBN09Ozqn_V8SenNg_wUC0oC_T9x0rphIXkEYApBUiPeEcswfkdXbX09Ley1rPKAzrdH6NhbZRg_ieoB089Pe8GnQcRE0T_sw1MhaA-o8h/s400/DSC05526.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6PqTB3yUYb4h0Nag7K0UfX2p3gvipiyZlCiKETVuUHKZeiHIfU5NPjHMa-mHW704kYHGt6OnBQaEfUWHecX4k3U4EAuSrgOV8khmb8_MtfvbmnROg5gBRP8Jz5sCGWc-l0mV-Fy8rGGx/s1600/DSC05533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA6PqTB3yUYb4h0Nag7K0UfX2p3gvipiyZlCiKETVuUHKZeiHIfU5NPjHMa-mHW704kYHGt6OnBQaEfUWHecX4k3U4EAuSrgOV8khmb8_MtfvbmnROg5gBRP8Jz5sCGWc-l0mV-Fy8rGGx/s400/DSC05533.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Seville is a very small city compared to Madrid and Barcelona. Everything is within walking distance. I don't know if it's because we were here over the weekend, but the city centre was jam packed with tourists. They spilled out onto walkways, swarmed the tourist attractions, and packed almost every restaurant we walked by.<br />
<br />
We decided to take a stroll around the coastal area of Seville. On the way, we passed by Plaza de Toros, which is the bullring. Seville is, of course, home to bull fighting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqE012Vln3QO64ggjQNMn3uLmFScYD3hGeuEmhFUYPJnMb1QLFivplSaAzmCpPdea_-kkdAWL84cudIbY6GLctOmqqjbQeHYbRHxBjQXqs2Combt3Epcdr5f-DPtcyZS7iCPK7D-72XEC/s1600/DSC05538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqE012Vln3QO64ggjQNMn3uLmFScYD3hGeuEmhFUYPJnMb1QLFivplSaAzmCpPdea_-kkdAWL84cudIbY6GLctOmqqjbQeHYbRHxBjQXqs2Combt3Epcdr5f-DPtcyZS7iCPK7D-72XEC/s400/DSC05538.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vfY_h3yaB-SI-WgGFf0se8Z7jIi4b3fl6Tn0ggRj_aSKgLCyYMokqdJsJ9yb5b_aXewWG4DTa8ZxX06aY-Bwl0ssq-lPQIWfaI7fDZLrzoynZEpACBN_T8Gr9QHWG98mG_QV-5MKz3B_/s1600/DSC05546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vfY_h3yaB-SI-WgGFf0se8Z7jIi4b3fl6Tn0ggRj_aSKgLCyYMokqdJsJ9yb5b_aXewWG4DTa8ZxX06aY-Bwl0ssq-lPQIWfaI7fDZLrzoynZEpACBN_T8Gr9QHWG98mG_QV-5MKz3B_/s400/DSC05546.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEClV3aRtT1OmZjnInOLi3lkfXofqZM-BVJiG_2mfaJNw7gp1Ji5lBKjUTpc8XqlYML241Lc394mvwERLl917wrnfCRp8F9QokT7__Fg-3dDOvhzmegeG77i3s77F8EtFfU97a8GtxcZ1U/s1600/DSC05584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEClV3aRtT1OmZjnInOLi3lkfXofqZM-BVJiG_2mfaJNw7gp1Ji5lBKjUTpc8XqlYML241Lc394mvwERLl917wrnfCRp8F9QokT7__Fg-3dDOvhzmegeG77i3s77F8EtFfU97a8GtxcZ1U/s400/DSC05584.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we made our way down the riverfront. It was HOT. 32 degrees celcius and according to locals, it usually goes up to around 40 degrees this time of the year. When you're in the shade, it feels cool and the breeze is lovely, since humidity is low. But the minute you walk out into the sun, the heat sears into your skin and the light is blinding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJlsOAoUnm-3worEWX-wRFJMqKpMLgzDJ8A7s4XU__3GRkmxsmzNd38txwS4Cbjpb2HitMqIdReqOJqPg7EbBPZ2_7R79IAO_ZCvkuao3m2zod_vNEPYtH79FfxDeabQrdp0TySy0yZ2A/s1600/20190615_155934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFJlsOAoUnm-3worEWX-wRFJMqKpMLgzDJ8A7s4XU__3GRkmxsmzNd38txwS4Cbjpb2HitMqIdReqOJqPg7EbBPZ2_7R79IAO_ZCvkuao3m2zod_vNEPYtH79FfxDeabQrdp0TySy0yZ2A/s400/20190615_155934.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We visited Torre del Oro or the gold tower. This was Seville's watchtower constructed in the 13th century to defend the city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70rZKu5swE9OX4XbC__TWAV52pHMLyeiU-kkxrmmcIX78uoUmmok5-Z0ihI41nOmTO5YYJDgT2F4XaYRVdl4vkyfScEVH32xZszxkEGhn-W5bZothrAYku8wJ1LsrKr1wCkf0K_NKZ4sK/s1600/DSC05566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg70rZKu5swE9OX4XbC__TWAV52pHMLyeiU-kkxrmmcIX78uoUmmok5-Z0ihI41nOmTO5YYJDgT2F4XaYRVdl4vkyfScEVH32xZszxkEGhn-W5bZothrAYku8wJ1LsrKr1wCkf0K_NKZ4sK/s400/DSC05566.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihO1b2r7NPjncmUcAsZS5hZS5EyFGE3Ffihz87EGNqsWnRGdzz9GTYayWyLrQRVnBWMdGr-3ru9OHfWNWbcLY4YBxfRJLCS18nVjYiPwPQ_qGNCyeny0bTiTWuVxdJUuLEGyybMFPFqBE5/s1600/DSC05571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihO1b2r7NPjncmUcAsZS5hZS5EyFGE3Ffihz87EGNqsWnRGdzz9GTYayWyLrQRVnBWMdGr-3ru9OHfWNWbcLY4YBxfRJLCS18nVjYiPwPQ_qGNCyeny0bTiTWuVxdJUuLEGyybMFPFqBE5/s400/DSC05571.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHnu6bxwwGbOqEwY2O9OTQzG6-bXMX86Joj7WHXETnvZ68EC_EsR3p40abLQgiiVTQA6XJnLCDW_H4RR_C3Q7YjX6jEI7BpDANz6CdPwx_U0I2MTeFPCmaSXvb1Q8fk9wVkIlg6f4id6k/s1600/DSC05576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHnu6bxwwGbOqEwY2O9OTQzG6-bXMX86Joj7WHXETnvZ68EC_EsR3p40abLQgiiVTQA6XJnLCDW_H4RR_C3Q7YjX6jEI7BpDANz6CdPwx_U0I2MTeFPCmaSXvb1Q8fk9wVkIlg6f4id6k/s400/DSC05576.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we strolled along the esplanade to the very picturesque Triana Bridge, where you can get fantastic views of the riverbanks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTof7AXypOqzzMGaO8jPLpW-QIJZrBRGJoo1X1kB8urnVF6f4HDolgOi4FVclUSutq_6yMqz_eW530cAfyU_i3J5K1T6iEnsvOCjL2SdEEsz281LHGaZZ0e3kEDtGk3LONZYCUc-w_qEk8/s1600/DSC05614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTof7AXypOqzzMGaO8jPLpW-QIJZrBRGJoo1X1kB8urnVF6f4HDolgOi4FVclUSutq_6yMqz_eW530cAfyU_i3J5K1T6iEnsvOCjL2SdEEsz281LHGaZZ0e3kEDtGk3LONZYCUc-w_qEk8/s400/DSC05614.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD7QIlVzAZcATyaliRmiuj81zbwxCzzrqBVeK4FvhcnwUuUnrHKqSw_8vXYThAHUAnvaxbOh_70T5i-smrD3zjdW2m8nFj33gKpcxrAZMEjJDcWeuEMbMbUFBlZ2zApOM3N7s76rJaqcx/s1600/DSC05591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD7QIlVzAZcATyaliRmiuj81zbwxCzzrqBVeK4FvhcnwUuUnrHKqSw_8vXYThAHUAnvaxbOh_70T5i-smrD3zjdW2m8nFj33gKpcxrAZMEjJDcWeuEMbMbUFBlZ2zApOM3N7s76rJaqcx/s400/DSC05591.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbU9dYu_PTbhCMrAfzyFqgrllrGxBK6HAXmJB65HRkciKIpd-c7CZVOx67DuRIbuK-GSeOfwOpeqP2PcS9-TuDAgYIGnO80MINlSsgRKi2o8XniLEAhODA4pRcku8fvabuy7o5Lroia0ER/s1600/DSC05604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbU9dYu_PTbhCMrAfzyFqgrllrGxBK6HAXmJB65HRkciKIpd-c7CZVOx67DuRIbuK-GSeOfwOpeqP2PcS9-TuDAgYIGnO80MINlSsgRKi2o8XniLEAhODA4pRcku8fvabuy7o5Lroia0ER/s400/DSC05604.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a leisurely afternoon and we returned back to the city centre for early dinner at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187443-d5308824-Reviews-La_Azotea_Santa_Cruz-Seville_Province_of_Seville_Andalucia.html" target="_blank">La Azotea</a>. Andre had done most of the food research for this trip and this was one in Seville with great reviews. La Azotea has a branch with a Michelin star, but we went to the one in Santa Cruz, near our hotel. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipnkUdYAC2DL9mGXNA-S5OJE7ZlfYmSMwBIugmj-okPyeKXpiCAyyztsIkej9Gg6gVNnRZ5Bx1dMRVImDAJ8v9hDJpOXqCfyvuXwK7B8hczqzutArLco-UxvmWebYbWjay5Jej3deFKl1T/s1600/DSC05629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipnkUdYAC2DL9mGXNA-S5OJE7ZlfYmSMwBIugmj-okPyeKXpiCAyyztsIkej9Gg6gVNnRZ5Bx1dMRVImDAJ8v9hDJpOXqCfyvuXwK7B8hczqzutArLco-UxvmWebYbWjay5Jej3deFKl1T/s400/DSC05629.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZS5t4mRhanLdCkYNfnpKq_qothyPatPy7E69OMonw7EoFKUKsTkdS04oCGHpyC-2qFLD5uSWCE3rb0EmYlgVmx2F95ZPWCsKG7k8L9IrQigOfQrzcaiIBW3kX9ASvrOpdSty0pDb4Xw6/s1600/DSC05617+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1167" data-original-width="1600" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZS5t4mRhanLdCkYNfnpKq_qothyPatPy7E69OMonw7EoFKUKsTkdS04oCGHpyC-2qFLD5uSWCE3rb0EmYlgVmx2F95ZPWCsKG7k8L9IrQigOfQrzcaiIBW3kX9ASvrOpdSty0pDb4Xw6/s400/DSC05617+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmon tartare and two glasses of tinto de verano</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_7CwzyOU104f-uZHSNW9K6mDbAl9bSqf_t7DpUYTlQF06PeKsxxCIkjaoYdJo88s57LQ0HA6I_ZbGST0fkSBdeCUW8_neBbp8VTfh3KKxee8zX3fHUyjpmBsNMwg6LMmAWAtTmeUAF9R/s1600/DSC05620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_7CwzyOU104f-uZHSNW9K6mDbAl9bSqf_t7DpUYTlQF06PeKsxxCIkjaoYdJo88s57LQ0HA6I_ZbGST0fkSBdeCUW8_neBbp8VTfh3KKxee8zX3fHUyjpmBsNMwg6LMmAWAtTmeUAF9R/s400/DSC05620.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salmorejo (a cold tomato soup with ham and quail's eggs)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQtohLWGceUrL8isD7SOXIhFl3jm7Wf_anJU9slLO8FNFEwD3hkPUZShm4DnAShgforwbk1v_E_H4B_x83lhxwAu9nOVxWf_hrv87o6Y2-N5gKx6aQvL-jwyDkaUfxpAzR4U83tyopdg0/s1600/DSC05623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQtohLWGceUrL8isD7SOXIhFl3jm7Wf_anJU9slLO8FNFEwD3hkPUZShm4DnAShgforwbk1v_E_H4B_x83lhxwAu9nOVxWf_hrv87o6Y2-N5gKx6aQvL-jwyDkaUfxpAzR4U83tyopdg0/s400/DSC05623.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hake with vegetables</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94zxCF_g0INeOJ4KPpi1xqaCbbpMJP1WRs7Kswm_okOTgbXWGu5UL2ercQh2G9Ssf-PP9NYMuog59zTGLsp4pJ4oS8XfYrTmTQi0JvH1eaQEZ5qNVgU_IyJHPmwneR4cKZCDhfyfjYx_w/s1600/DSC05627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94zxCF_g0INeOJ4KPpi1xqaCbbpMJP1WRs7Kswm_okOTgbXWGu5UL2ercQh2G9Ssf-PP9NYMuog59zTGLsp4pJ4oS8XfYrTmTQi0JvH1eaQEZ5qNVgU_IyJHPmwneR4cKZCDhfyfjYx_w/s400/DSC05627.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork cheeks and potatoes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The reviews were not wrong. The food was scrumptious. We'd never tried hake before, which is a white fish, and it was a delightful surprise. It was poached in paper with the vegetables and the result was a flaky, tender and glorious dish. The pork cheeks were melt-in-your mouth quality - my two pork-loving boys enjoyed this dish tremendously. We're loving Spanish cuisine so very much.<br />
<br />
The portions were very generous and prices extremely reasonably. We're also hooked on tinto de verano, which we now order with our meal every dinner. We're going to be so fat when we return to Singapore.<br />
<br />
Funny incident: At one point, we wanted to cross the plaza just
outside the cathedral to the other side, but we found that it was
blocked by hordes of people and paparazzi.We figured maybe there was
some event being organised, and had to walk around the cathedral
instead. Later, we heard church bells and we asked a waiter at La Azotea what they
were for. Apparently, that day was the mega wedding of Sergio Ramos, the
Spanish footballer and Real Madrid captain! He's such a big name that
the centre of Seville was cordoned off for him. <br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-29635976823002429712019-06-16T05:08:00.000+08:002019-06-16T05:08:02.548+08:00Exploring the city of Barcelona, and more feasting!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 6 (Fri, 14 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
Today would be our last day in Barcelona and we dedicated it to viewing the sights in the city. First up was <a href="https://www.palaumusica.cat/en" target="_blank">Palau de la Musica Catalana</a>, a concert hall designed in the catalan modernista style. It's a UNESCO heritage site.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyt_ZmYJVZRbRdpICsZz33JbueAYg-WLUZmzLGsII4C1q1ObLGht5fmkHO1f3q8m2q2Hi9gf5ngG6aXSsT5TXzc2S04PZNRcvJpMbC35dbTxglovj9bItk0k9FsUlnarqiRlY_SzYeD1X_/s1600/DSC05270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyt_ZmYJVZRbRdpICsZz33JbueAYg-WLUZmzLGsII4C1q1ObLGht5fmkHO1f3q8m2q2Hi9gf5ngG6aXSsT5TXzc2S04PZNRcvJpMbC35dbTxglovj9bItk0k9FsUlnarqiRlY_SzYeD1X_/s400/DSC05270.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYk-wySXXyllf09NK5X60fZ12xu1rFEju4LsmXHUxCMgpnP4uyiMy3IVSorrFdtiunywqwtcp3AokO2FoUF9YAA8xdZn0FnNl0_2UMEF9JajoBdnBpJkVa9wEprb7T_QW8Zl2_M8KUZj5/s1600/DSC05264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfYk-wySXXyllf09NK5X60fZ12xu1rFEju4LsmXHUxCMgpnP4uyiMy3IVSorrFdtiunywqwtcp3AokO2FoUF9YAA8xdZn0FnNl0_2UMEF9JajoBdnBpJkVa9wEprb7T_QW8Zl2_M8KUZj5/s400/DSC05264.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
A look at the upcoming programmes on signboards within the hall showed an impressive lineup featuring world renowned musicians, including Simon Rattle, Ann Sophie Mutter, Lang Lang and Cecilia Bartoli. Would have loved to attend a concert here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE-k52vKG7fEWabKhtoaaYPsoitX12WjbeCgoN-Dv3ouG_h7US8W8XQyAcflRk2timB317qrDfSSzYa-hpMtUpE3EFpuCr4WaCnBeePxjRqeXFTJDrZ5c2qTR1LFhxw7DUzLlfQeADwkg/s1600/DSC05254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqE-k52vKG7fEWabKhtoaaYPsoitX12WjbeCgoN-Dv3ouG_h7US8W8XQyAcflRk2timB317qrDfSSzYa-hpMtUpE3EFpuCr4WaCnBeePxjRqeXFTJDrZ5c2qTR1LFhxw7DUzLlfQeADwkg/s400/DSC05254.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A short walk later, we arrived at the <a href="https://catedralbcn.org/index.php?lang=en" target="_blank">Catedral of Barcelona</a>. It's a classic Gothic cathedral typical of European cathedrals constructed from the 13th to 15th centuries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQKqJVvtyzVo9q_2NE-8tYWlPhf7dJAPuZnYj71pj8KLo64NzVEWdBRa0iSbXLXDBdC7HXTzghOOdtur6IAlr_aV8sOsEY_cJlQaqni0KyeO4C6am24B-sDmxR_pEGn65V8NZGpNnX_Iz/s1600/DSC05295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQKqJVvtyzVo9q_2NE-8tYWlPhf7dJAPuZnYj71pj8KLo64NzVEWdBRa0iSbXLXDBdC7HXTzghOOdtur6IAlr_aV8sOsEY_cJlQaqni0KyeO4C6am24B-sDmxR_pEGn65V8NZGpNnX_Iz/s400/DSC05295.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYzmyQnM3RRlidEd034d51F42bQnkMAg_asC6b0buAvn5vfXfx8DFodSQZ8VcbZmFJrE5XgKyMHJ4DZutdxyB0NleCjH9UGezuMXm838QwXD0ZYw-r80wk-HpaEauZ5OSjXng4KmgOJ4T/s1600/DSC05299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWYzmyQnM3RRlidEd034d51F42bQnkMAg_asC6b0buAvn5vfXfx8DFodSQZ8VcbZmFJrE5XgKyMHJ4DZutdxyB0NleCjH9UGezuMXm838QwXD0ZYw-r80wk-HpaEauZ5OSjXng4KmgOJ4T/s400/DSC05299.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It always amazes me how people constructed these massive cathedrals at a time without modern machinery (which is why they often took hundreds of years to complete!) Even today, the scale of these cathedrals is awe-inspiring. Photos can't capture the sheer wonder you feel when seeing these structures in person.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfsRhN3yQ4AinI5jg4yMWoozKckxA9PlB6ROpWc1fyAan6lLQ9T0hqeb7oCx2LoTmWavfGq5-OplnqBwOefi4DZqa8Ywl1NIJ7YOagg3tBH3UAnpHrtsI_15EcBV_Yn1sV6Yio_O2GIvN/s1600/DSC05315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRfsRhN3yQ4AinI5jg4yMWoozKckxA9PlB6ROpWc1fyAan6lLQ9T0hqeb7oCx2LoTmWavfGq5-OplnqBwOefi4DZqa8Ywl1NIJ7YOagg3tBH3UAnpHrtsI_15EcBV_Yn1sV6Yio_O2GIvN/s400/DSC05315.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Z75F2F-Xqpn0oiQSp_GUtwL_TJDo6HXdhVXOo4F3cW2w-vSU-302mjfaAolLHaJ9Y1hv1HroHyRHJREeYgFa290JBfwBSeci7bUNpVEzbqAcPzaVEbKRlI4RJfK2UNtuSLGyyfrg_YJB/s1600/DSC05313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Z75F2F-Xqpn0oiQSp_GUtwL_TJDo6HXdhVXOo4F3cW2w-vSU-302mjfaAolLHaJ9Y1hv1HroHyRHJREeYgFa290JBfwBSeci7bUNpVEzbqAcPzaVEbKRlI4RJfK2UNtuSLGyyfrg_YJB/s400/DSC05313.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Massive organ within the cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYas3FP1kFhTfXJjPfX4wLhBcE_-Y3ViDsZmqF4UwYM9-H25z5rw5Xbtk4XZ3_Rpff4b3OEGt8OmgDcQbyHs93I-wnPLRChRAClu1AMlNkd7l2sIDGXV20-x0c4csjrQXnQp_c3netnh9/s1600/DSC05326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYas3FP1kFhTfXJjPfX4wLhBcE_-Y3ViDsZmqF4UwYM9-H25z5rw5Xbtk4XZ3_Rpff4b3OEGt8OmgDcQbyHs93I-wnPLRChRAClu1AMlNkd7l2sIDGXV20-x0c4csjrQXnQp_c3netnh9/s400/DSC05326.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgF1Pdgfq-M4xNQpzqFrBn7i75oxQCbdeTjRvrtAyVCgBpoVeRVsuik7vHpnZKsyYMhxBrLCmKtX344qt3RyA7mqeR0PfHMylcX7VmmTwplZdEzgxAYqHdMmaj9ftJz8oZXiQH2HPAmkF/s1600/DSC05334+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgF1Pdgfq-M4xNQpzqFrBn7i75oxQCbdeTjRvrtAyVCgBpoVeRVsuik7vHpnZKsyYMhxBrLCmKtX344qt3RyA7mqeR0PfHMylcX7VmmTwplZdEzgxAYqHdMmaj9ftJz8oZXiQH2HPAmkF/s400/DSC05334+ed.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
On the cathedral grounds was a penned compound full of geese. They looked really serene and well fed. Hope they're not being bred for their livers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuJ8yT5vFqhyphenhyphenLYSjzAK1HYIQ48RAuRlQjT0S_uunm7aSv1iSm8w9iCDrZnceYjy_LAnXAuHQMcOISB4OVsW3heIvijc0DLfSGh-JkYv7vif6pjoL7pzxtAItziLtczRplFyayRY0vuBvt/s1600/DSC05340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuJ8yT5vFqhyphenhyphenLYSjzAK1HYIQ48RAuRlQjT0S_uunm7aSv1iSm8w9iCDrZnceYjy_LAnXAuHQMcOISB4OVsW3heIvijc0DLfSGh-JkYv7vif6pjoL7pzxtAItziLtczRplFyayRY0vuBvt/s400/DSC05340.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The area next to the cathedral is the Gothic quarter, which has remnants of its Roman past, like the one we saw in Girona. There are many charming details in the narrow alleyways. Simply beautiful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDcNpdhXLt4ZYAIxZVKUhUmOBniP390FLtKsZMo4TcVDjFKdlfet2hy46uZ9NrXt4pQxH4blH92aZO9m-MTupGbCxLTo0G8TClKY_EJXqxMRqSbwXQ-XucyQoiPxw4JmZRwjilyWmzss3/s1600/DSC05364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDcNpdhXLt4ZYAIxZVKUhUmOBniP390FLtKsZMo4TcVDjFKdlfet2hy46uZ9NrXt4pQxH4blH92aZO9m-MTupGbCxLTo0G8TClKY_EJXqxMRqSbwXQ-XucyQoiPxw4JmZRwjilyWmzss3/s400/DSC05364.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZVJfbbrSlO-ApYSsIV82CLXiBQRS6MI-kP4dW03j8AcIik00hZ7YBbXEMz8BiYfNia3N9raiNEQfOTc8zR_J_0o4YDz66YDehn0foB1PmkQMEFVhj3KZL4daYAeDx8ntH1TDOgfCzMiu/s1600/DSC05368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZVJfbbrSlO-ApYSsIV82CLXiBQRS6MI-kP4dW03j8AcIik00hZ7YBbXEMz8BiYfNia3N9raiNEQfOTc8zR_J_0o4YDz66YDehn0foB1PmkQMEFVhj3KZL4daYAeDx8ntH1TDOgfCzMiu/s400/DSC05368.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPRQDWDZxVT5WQYQ8ttwFetsw0EOT7L-4peL8zPqfF0lf2SNfAcbJftpfVO4q0rb13UnCtxEMNgZ5BPnZsV2aJJ2dttfEX9CMouRru9h4PWNpotTZhv-phBXvrPjkifbH31PCza0NixWP/s1600/DSC05369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDPRQDWDZxVT5WQYQ8ttwFetsw0EOT7L-4peL8zPqfF0lf2SNfAcbJftpfVO4q0rb13UnCtxEMNgZ5BPnZsV2aJJ2dttfEX9CMouRru9h4PWNpotTZhv-phBXvrPjkifbH31PCza0NixWP/s400/DSC05369.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDbcqnVXlTqzsQmHs5aLJizi7L1MA1lULALshkxSeKPeV4DRHpi0QBPEYxfVp-1NUbT9IchK53BZ2BMn6FrSF8F0e25PsvZ3fMRuKB2MPN474NK3UIn9G-OgOFVDKC2UEd-uFJNitiXSX/s1600/DSC05375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJDbcqnVXlTqzsQmHs5aLJizi7L1MA1lULALshkxSeKPeV4DRHpi0QBPEYxfVp-1NUbT9IchK53BZ2BMn6FrSF8F0e25PsvZ3fMRuKB2MPN474NK3UIn9G-OgOFVDKC2UEd-uFJNitiXSX/s400/DSC05375.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4o-EEjGuXhjXX7m8MutpyD8UWQqve1ASmtMg1L_g4RxjEKm4sptmtDEihcPlQ9pMn0ShzwBs6-l1Nql-T5d9OH2bg29B16Zg6quPqsDClZJs-TJ8qKt4Etgiznmz3lweKanAJITKVBgd/s1600/DSC05372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4o-EEjGuXhjXX7m8MutpyD8UWQqve1ASmtMg1L_g4RxjEKm4sptmtDEihcPlQ9pMn0ShzwBs6-l1Nql-T5d9OH2bg29B16Zg6quPqsDClZJs-TJ8qKt4Etgiznmz3lweKanAJITKVBgd/s400/DSC05372.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then we walked on to Boqueria Market, which we missed out on a few days ago. On the way, we passed by the Generalitat of Catalunya building, which is the seat of the Catalan government. There was a protest going on and the press were gathering. Yellow ribbons were hung everywhere, which mean something quite different from in Singapore. Here, they're a symbol to free the Catalan political prisoners. We saw yellow ribbons all over in Girona too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwswZ7cMLhPUbRu_jCOdbAiLfVjVr5_OnWDgl5REpSmu8-iSfk3UD4jV-RYwxnj3mFK-qfGiBTlnHmMurAW2cDV5CeOWj9wMoz26VuTEa0N-VickS0XRZQ3AGZ3wj5_xuVkOyGd2-Z29Ud/s1600/DSC05389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwswZ7cMLhPUbRu_jCOdbAiLfVjVr5_OnWDgl5REpSmu8-iSfk3UD4jV-RYwxnj3mFK-qfGiBTlnHmMurAW2cDV5CeOWj9wMoz26VuTEa0N-VickS0XRZQ3AGZ3wj5_xuVkOyGd2-Z29Ud/s400/DSC05389.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0V3HewdNkGEsQmB2Lf6a0Ie8haUW0FClOovzU_DAqKnSedLyROzmRfwTEcOY9ozWorIWodh76mH_18sd7sviUtH3Mj8l-uJb-_QuaISgm6YRZjYWzBtZqNKEjPjwpucwuMUtfYvP6xxx/s1600/DSC05381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0V3HewdNkGEsQmB2Lf6a0Ie8haUW0FClOovzU_DAqKnSedLyROzmRfwTEcOY9ozWorIWodh76mH_18sd7sviUtH3Mj8l-uJb-_QuaISgm6YRZjYWzBtZqNKEjPjwpucwuMUtfYvP6xxx/s400/DSC05381.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
But back to Boqueria. It's a super popular tourist haunt and was crazy crowded. When I mentioned to a few friends that I was going to Barcelona, they all told me to go to Pinotxo Bar. It only has a few seats at the bar, so we were very fortunate that a few people were just leaving as we'd arrived.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcx7zekGDQmL0fGsC9oaDouEhjhLy9yw15-YbwWdElYUJTSUDl6zgDaQs3f6JYLnAC0OuZ_aoNhDWCVzqR1J2ks3_7cZWyxwY7eFgVzkWZnkHG8epmQwFPo8aBF8dTWtt_6zQiW9fHLQb/s1600/DSC05413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcx7zekGDQmL0fGsC9oaDouEhjhLy9yw15-YbwWdElYUJTSUDl6zgDaQs3f6JYLnAC0OuZ_aoNhDWCVzqR1J2ks3_7cZWyxwY7eFgVzkWZnkHG8epmQwFPo8aBF8dTWtt_6zQiW9fHLQb/s400/DSC05413.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I asked the waiter (the one waving to the camera) if he had an English menu and he replied, "I'm the English menu!" LOL. Ordering here is a little tricky because the board is entirely in Spanish. We asked the waiter what he recommended and he rattled off a few things - squid, shrimp, octopus, clams, croquettes. We basically ordered blind, taking our chances.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZyHiG4TxzRA7hjbGF_DSTgHUOC2nvRP1cNw__O-dgtYVTxKe9hrgKtLKaTm2zo7bVwGKDPUI66gI2G7bRZUpTbZ-eH2w2tJ0y1jgUz_5GkFEn-gpJk-encEgWXZfjhNkXfrnwueOXwOu/s1600/DSC05416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZyHiG4TxzRA7hjbGF_DSTgHUOC2nvRP1cNw__O-dgtYVTxKe9hrgKtLKaTm2zo7bVwGKDPUI66gI2G7bRZUpTbZ-eH2w2tJ0y1jgUz_5GkFEn-gpJk-encEgWXZfjhNkXfrnwueOXwOu/s400/DSC05416.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squid in balsamic vinegar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnneSTs920GmSeMX0kocVgsw_rmA7u2pkHchQSKxdm2hO9x89jUE21o1nuyU0knlcejbzthNOrKW4VgC1T5DFtqFyU4X1pzvVgEXwuXyHcaYg10m-umFuiRiAYGLvFrJdFFt1TFQ7HTqd/s1600/DSC05421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnneSTs920GmSeMX0kocVgsw_rmA7u2pkHchQSKxdm2hO9x89jUE21o1nuyU0knlcejbzthNOrKW4VgC1T5DFtqFyU4X1pzvVgEXwuXyHcaYg10m-umFuiRiAYGLvFrJdFFt1TFQ7HTqd/s400/DSC05421.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled shrimp</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRUf-lAc0YhDynBSUjqbV-GK4lqv8FFjspEd0FGhDQPuzxu2fWk0r6ccBXT1QHRDeEpbrbqs-5oP38Rwu9ZaIc-qcYe9ttd8pXiha4JFrKWGYnvQQle3zCX0gJIew-YpGvKzlUowwAac_O/s1600/DSC05423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRUf-lAc0YhDynBSUjqbV-GK4lqv8FFjspEd0FGhDQPuzxu2fWk0r6ccBXT1QHRDeEpbrbqs-5oP38Rwu9ZaIc-qcYe9ttd8pXiha4JFrKWGYnvQQle3zCX0gJIew-YpGvKzlUowwAac_O/s400/DSC05423.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach croquettes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaMxy2e6wT7WXQCDpdlRCVaOYyVFO769kHDmLKQdeTmBVYoaT1oTyubjNg_fYQwGKkI0o0dMY9oetT-euY6jjm-qnWMflSW7dAzqQWz7wNlRIDkvTXR8gF2BjUuUeRhpMTo-O80zB5KpI/s1600/DSC05425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxaMxy2e6wT7WXQCDpdlRCVaOYyVFO769kHDmLKQdeTmBVYoaT1oTyubjNg_fYQwGKkI0o0dMY9oetT-euY6jjm-qnWMflSW7dAzqQWz7wNlRIDkvTXR8gF2BjUuUeRhpMTo-O80zB5KpI/s400/DSC05425.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Razor clams</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPawdCuttKho_9v1cQCNowxWfz1Rm_fYZPNRrGsOj4oTn9y39Ws9FbE7owSx5oOCz0WWbUdCYjmehGt9wsmP6kpLiX-sRheenejEEOeafOcPHfXUaClwaNEwsoHW4qGimYc6mj6SBIGKX/s1600/DSC05428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpPawdCuttKho_9v1cQCNowxWfz1Rm_fYZPNRrGsOj4oTn9y39Ws9FbE7owSx5oOCz0WWbUdCYjmehGt9wsmP6kpLiX-sRheenejEEOeafOcPHfXUaClwaNEwsoHW4qGimYc6mj6SBIGKX/s400/DSC05428.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stewed rabbit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The food was delicious. We've never tasted anything like the rabbit and the squid, they were pretty special. We loved the spinach croquettes so much that we ordered another 6, on top of the original 3. However, it was a very expensive meal, IMO. Because we had to order the food without knowing the prices, we had a bit of a sticker shock when presented with the bill. It came up to €63, which I thought was pricey since we didn't order all that much.<br />
<br />
The rest of Boqueria comprises tons of stalls selling everything from takeaway food to jamon (ham) and fresh seafood to ice cream. It's an explosion of colours and smells.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4CrHpda9KOZ1Dys0LycJgBrUUb8tqZHFfGg-pwkm6NQm1-bvoP8rQJahdqMPOAhERZ5BlLPQrmx6kNRpzM_k84TAUZgoECthcZsAzyLiEdlSYs39BQzqviOVQNpzy8RDKum1QkvWKrEB/s1600/DSC05432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4CrHpda9KOZ1Dys0LycJgBrUUb8tqZHFfGg-pwkm6NQm1-bvoP8rQJahdqMPOAhERZ5BlLPQrmx6kNRpzM_k84TAUZgoECthcZsAzyLiEdlSYs39BQzqviOVQNpzy8RDKum1QkvWKrEB/s400/DSC05432.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHdzczG1IX3_UBnC56zYZJhb4HeHGWnIdzqCkveoVz4v5hTO7gchbPRbllGzwnTQscco7bkk56nko86TnfnsOannLrZ887Ia5igmLDrl6chZmMl4BGAOn6tLvzCHkv68bVq0gR3yUC0mE/s1600/DSC05438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHdzczG1IX3_UBnC56zYZJhb4HeHGWnIdzqCkveoVz4v5hTO7gchbPRbllGzwnTQscco7bkk56nko86TnfnsOannLrZ887Ia5igmLDrl6chZmMl4BGAOn6tLvzCHkv68bVq0gR3yUC0mE/s400/DSC05438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1qUOYP99iU0CDuiF8inONFAXmoXciJdhU1eTHD_KqSxwap2HmV-T0MZsk60WCrcLZ4pnEP_jlFzHVrvYSZIcjQJG3ki7g8xKq5a44FHfxo8THDyQfVMbD_Uk66wqDIypv5EVTMkysEN7/s1600/DSC05440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU1qUOYP99iU0CDuiF8inONFAXmoXciJdhU1eTHD_KqSxwap2HmV-T0MZsk60WCrcLZ4pnEP_jlFzHVrvYSZIcjQJG3ki7g8xKq5a44FHfxo8THDyQfVMbD_Uk66wqDIypv5EVTMkysEN7/s400/DSC05440.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqvstjgnfAUVKD7cstx3RTANHbhbIlcq7kq0JUFrmMGBu7EcEDQLOPXagSphux_31N20M62ZYuqu5xuXWcQYx589qzVjhwgZsXE7pqG8am7vfOt2CCXT5mDCk3eOFUmh4De2Qf-DfJBEW/s1600/DSC05445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqvstjgnfAUVKD7cstx3RTANHbhbIlcq7kq0JUFrmMGBu7EcEDQLOPXagSphux_31N20M62ZYuqu5xuXWcQYx589qzVjhwgZsXE7pqG8am7vfOt2CCXT5mDCk3eOFUmh4De2Qf-DfJBEW/s400/DSC05445.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhR-L4_A2ldVLxNO6DX9lxa7XTw2JN1qnSJVJwHXGvoqiG9hYThG_YBLAL0dnv9LGMIGLT_hbjWJMDrYCmDtWjUDPGLKWqfnLyaMRuwFEHw7vUP2mA2n1_35NTxXftUur8lDsqKvNw0laz/s1600/DSC05449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhR-L4_A2ldVLxNO6DX9lxa7XTw2JN1qnSJVJwHXGvoqiG9hYThG_YBLAL0dnv9LGMIGLT_hbjWJMDrYCmDtWjUDPGLKWqfnLyaMRuwFEHw7vUP2mA2n1_35NTxXftUur8lDsqKvNw0laz/s400/DSC05449.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56cw10Qj4nngojHTTywdM2asvhoVFLE-LRzU6Yv_kNhvdmdte4AEXdF_1qQa9Fv1aJ_QD_cf4hWAXjpc_c-IBWZ0gC5Cvs6OZsHqPZGpjCnuKZvy-kZW-U4dTaZBb1yFCjOSIp9445MdJ/s1600/DSC05464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh56cw10Qj4nngojHTTywdM2asvhoVFLE-LRzU6Yv_kNhvdmdte4AEXdF_1qQa9Fv1aJ_QD_cf4hWAXjpc_c-IBWZ0gC5Cvs6OZsHqPZGpjCnuKZvy-kZW-U4dTaZBb1yFCjOSIp9445MdJ/s400/DSC05464.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
What really caught our eye though, was the fantastic array of fruit. They all look fresh, luscious and very cheap. We bought a large punnet of bright red strawberries for only €2! They were incredibly sweet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpg4Kk-BPsmbTWNSWpuIjkaSF7qUogKIhV3Vh9pJ8nO8orMnhF_daRxg7T47JEXxo0gyoj_a_4V2Vw38qaVc6TUfSQ7_6U6xtnCQYoLllA-G_nbyKTFoLCo6fLCMH26opfRR9QBqIvAMg/s1600/DSC05430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpg4Kk-BPsmbTWNSWpuIjkaSF7qUogKIhV3Vh9pJ8nO8orMnhF_daRxg7T47JEXxo0gyoj_a_4V2Vw38qaVc6TUfSQ7_6U6xtnCQYoLllA-G_nbyKTFoLCo6fLCMH26opfRR9QBqIvAMg/s400/DSC05430.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlC9cSJvzIGO76v81QgKcQzoRXB4Hb8KbWYogbwj1hLcIUp-e3TSKMJ1a1YcAfm7pknrj9Fx0JNL6uRa2v0Exci6vMmAItQ_QAnGDIsF8amv_m4BgdOBW-F5u9QJq00MifwnMlY7t4rwi/s1600/DSC05456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlC9cSJvzIGO76v81QgKcQzoRXB4Hb8KbWYogbwj1hLcIUp-e3TSKMJ1a1YcAfm7pknrj9Fx0JNL6uRa2v0Exci6vMmAItQ_QAnGDIsF8amv_m4BgdOBW-F5u9QJq00MifwnMlY7t4rwi/s400/DSC05456.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Walking back to the hotel from Boqueria was a pleasant stroll along Las Ramblas, the major tourist walkway. It was teeming with people.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheJW-9OroN2C8lvdu5uL6p4Cjc6EgSA1UO3GxgJ-VI7DX-g-w2VQbco5flI-7ept5Jx0pICf_Z6IQQa8w2zEN8O36E_-AqlprIwKNR_iS2AOxs1x5GZfB6a33syn6UcfQeKD-r2KABjd6/s1600/DSC05469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjheJW-9OroN2C8lvdu5uL6p4Cjc6EgSA1UO3GxgJ-VI7DX-g-w2VQbco5flI-7ept5Jx0pICf_Z6IQQa8w2zEN8O36E_-AqlprIwKNR_iS2AOxs1x5GZfB6a33syn6UcfQeKD-r2KABjd6/s400/DSC05469.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We passed by Placa Catalunya, the main square, which was inundated by pigeons, kind of like Trafalgar Square in London.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IacrYrjwPYDUzwhVu0h2r4FZkLTIPTCgcPNmk17c_gDTwTbsrPfWMhVIYfZk1Gr8mkpRT42Far19WFy_GUykSBZ-8k3mC-3fhAxyeC4QEAIwtYvfZ3GPGOxYkBeFuQBDloZ77O_qzOm5/s1600/DSC05483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5IacrYrjwPYDUzwhVu0h2r4FZkLTIPTCgcPNmk17c_gDTwTbsrPfWMhVIYfZk1Gr8mkpRT42Far19WFy_GUykSBZ-8k3mC-3fhAxyeC4QEAIwtYvfZ3GPGOxYkBeFuQBDloZ77O_qzOm5/s400/DSC05483.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAhZT8oM2t2AvV6Oa3rNxauZexCGrDeQ7lcQwHXcntP3VWflKCW2cT5uC_Z1_WJ0vg064M9DycYG4uJkRv0DFiUNT4gaJY2BLmpXUnilTbOSyn92wx8u29ZobNKimTvgdgQZ1MDvFN6e9/s1600/DSC05486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVAhZT8oM2t2AvV6Oa3rNxauZexCGrDeQ7lcQwHXcntP3VWflKCW2cT5uC_Z1_WJ0vg064M9DycYG4uJkRv0DFiUNT4gaJY2BLmpXUnilTbOSyn92wx8u29ZobNKimTvgdgQZ1MDvFN6e9/s400/DSC05486.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
We had a lazy afternoon and headed back out for an early dinner to Ciudad Condal, because we enjoyed our first dinner in Barcelona there so very much. Ciudad Condal has a standard menu but they also have a tapas menu that changes daily. It's like a surprise present waiting to be opened.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6CWUzPw0oT8bLLEwUVUFBKZAdYuaTYMP2lV08WXp2wM8ieM2SgQchkceARHV1Ff6dqJ0vKhqGuMIeEuX0FWmTiO5TqeGXQGIQlS7bvVdyhajFAdQzvtz66lllx886NUF1MEvyZ_bHGpC/s1600/DSC05494.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6CWUzPw0oT8bLLEwUVUFBKZAdYuaTYMP2lV08WXp2wM8ieM2SgQchkceARHV1Ff6dqJ0vKhqGuMIeEuX0FWmTiO5TqeGXQGIQlS7bvVdyhajFAdQzvtz66lllx886NUF1MEvyZ_bHGpC/s400/DSC05494.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anchovies montadito and two glasses of tinto de verano</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJM57oAYPtyM3_rEXbApXgTsIZ8OLDnncC_9V1xrGG-EX3LTnCJvzgpdKU2mhUkJMESX25NkIV-ezi3Y8M5rj6P1hxbvR0BEwvAcxwkhQgH0jiVZulSY_bJGq3GbW1_zEd0zIt4ExkQo-/s1600/DSC05504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJM57oAYPtyM3_rEXbApXgTsIZ8OLDnncC_9V1xrGG-EX3LTnCJvzgpdKU2mhUkJMESX25NkIV-ezi3Y8M5rj6P1hxbvR0BEwvAcxwkhQgH0jiVZulSY_bJGq3GbW1_zEd0zIt4ExkQo-/s400/DSC05504.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A variety of tapas </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVimWrIKAovjgZoz02CJXid5cZZl971P0a8gYryiEdf_MseX-fN9bdqL8A6NsSoicTqLWdiHr0oTxqpYvNtRCdLJ6yq5mSCbfOTEKQmSxfaEfgMQjH2qyE4Z3TKfffah8XKyCL1qBEfXeO/s1600/DSC05510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVimWrIKAovjgZoz02CJXid5cZZl971P0a8gYryiEdf_MseX-fN9bdqL8A6NsSoicTqLWdiHr0oTxqpYvNtRCdLJ6yq5mSCbfOTEKQmSxfaEfgMQjH2qyE4Z3TKfffah8XKyCL1qBEfXeO/s400/DSC05510.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried squid and lobster rice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Every dish was exceptional, such a treat for us foodies. That lobster rice was out of this world and even something as simple as fried calamari was done so beautifully. We enjoyed the food so much we ordered three desserts: a creme Catalana, a torrija (a Spanish French toast or bread pudding with custard) and a sponge cake soaked in whiskey.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kChPK819gPIFOaTJ01w99DeeoztY1MOKmcqdOFg0gIAC-KpaoK2-mJD-pKN-84RkIfjhI7uHLVcoebh0DQ3r5fs049Rud5R_6aPvU1Wr6c7z9TCO5X9deXpc2bw85YKjSTBreVPvUcge/s1600/DSC05518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kChPK819gPIFOaTJ01w99DeeoztY1MOKmcqdOFg0gIAC-KpaoK2-mJD-pKN-84RkIfjhI7uHLVcoebh0DQ3r5fs049Rud5R_6aPvU1Wr6c7z9TCO5X9deXpc2bw85YKjSTBreVPvUcge/s400/DSC05518.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyKEX1GoJfXpilOoHgf4VG4TomtsAR7StMRFOEjTG8R0KXPw1PKK3vtXHxzvRY_VirPBiMXSQQJpK4UGoDRxeSqVjistUpNmNmyz6fYsGINVp9RUBeTZxAjLDifa5Qo4IPhXyEq3J2Y6L/s1600/DSC05522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyKEX1GoJfXpilOoHgf4VG4TomtsAR7StMRFOEjTG8R0KXPw1PKK3vtXHxzvRY_VirPBiMXSQQJpK4UGoDRxeSqVjistUpNmNmyz6fYsGINVp9RUBeTZxAjLDifa5Qo4IPhXyEq3J2Y6L/s400/DSC05522.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
All three desserts were worth the gazillion calories. I don't know how they make their custard but it's delectable. Every bite was heaven in a mouthful. We were astonished when we received the bill - it was only €59 for that quality and quantity of food that left us stuffed. Unbelievable value. So, so happy that this was our last dinner in Barcelona.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HJ_m4oj9DuiCet1RIkEjxalmWhpphmZxYOkqCKyl2Z2AfjA9hWWDEMDbkMwc6Lbn0ALaAMvDZC7pl2CrAh5LjEAfK2_k7LDHhXtqS0M2UmB-KQb0fhPtFzWQ4GrFGeUyB2kV_6N6cD4u/s1600/DSC05501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HJ_m4oj9DuiCet1RIkEjxalmWhpphmZxYOkqCKyl2Z2AfjA9hWWDEMDbkMwc6Lbn0ALaAMvDZC7pl2CrAh5LjEAfK2_k7LDHhXtqS0M2UmB-KQb0fhPtFzWQ4GrFGeUyB2kV_6N6cD4u/s400/DSC05501.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-87803100086736639722019-06-15T04:20:00.000+08:002019-06-15T04:20:54.809+08:00Girona, land of Game of Thrones, and some Dali-ghtful art<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 5 (Thu, 13 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
Today, we had booked a <a href="https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/13558-girona-figueres-dali-museum-day-tour-barcelona/?krt=s22&krid=25594ce7-fa6f-4779-6561-ab0c2c2f551c" target="_blank">full day tour of Girona and Figueres</a>. First stop: Girona. Girona is a city about one hour from Barcelona, best known for being one of the main shooting sites for HBO's Game of Thrones (not that we knew this fact before we booked the tour!)<br />
<br />
Before Game of Thrones, Girona was a quiet city, not that popular with tourists, so the show raise tourism in this quaint place significantly. There's a main river which you can cross via several bridges.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG6MQFGvmOkXcsrCLc-zyYz5BfxiBus9-2NP-baRIiN6wZSNlFhR9b2p-Kcm_HY4_eFKuGVybcNvv9xSMPrjohyZXapvkGSXYhB7j4s19ZzGDgZN7fIYsUu0D_Pq0AWC7f3wQuMm5RPl6/s1600/DSC05129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGG6MQFGvmOkXcsrCLc-zyYz5BfxiBus9-2NP-baRIiN6wZSNlFhR9b2p-Kcm_HY4_eFKuGVybcNvv9xSMPrjohyZXapvkGSXYhB7j4s19ZzGDgZN7fIYsUu0D_Pq0AWC7f3wQuMm5RPl6/s400/DSC05129.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4842lxOPSDH8-GIdEG9ljiQ50OuhQl-1XDmNQWOHgBrsWPtrbw78CyLM76dKX6m3DjSJiTjkk8PsuNV-CLSsvhiFFSIg2eM4zE-EJHjqHhvGtRHI67ifhbKQ_IHeyI9-87vD2-smblLi/s1600/DSC05136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf4842lxOPSDH8-GIdEG9ljiQ50OuhQl-1XDmNQWOHgBrsWPtrbw78CyLM76dKX6m3DjSJiTjkk8PsuNV-CLSsvhiFFSIg2eM4zE-EJHjqHhvGtRHI67ifhbKQ_IHeyI9-87vD2-smblLi/s400/DSC05136.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMf-BfoYEiDVOyXcupDG6d2SWmPK1KbkL-qcxPJhniMRK7wYsUQ6m6qx8LtaSLbh3eAbl_lEB-rkhKrNz8SP7_0istzEYSeiZYSlSjh8whjfVFptgy8NHqgYPwQzcAjp1l5g_WKyinIDH/s1600/DSC05137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDMf-BfoYEiDVOyXcupDG6d2SWmPK1KbkL-qcxPJhniMRK7wYsUQ6m6qx8LtaSLbh3eAbl_lEB-rkhKrNz8SP7_0istzEYSeiZYSlSjh8whjfVFptgy8NHqgYPwQzcAjp1l5g_WKyinIDH/s400/DSC05137.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This one was built by Eiffel - that's right, the same guy who designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmj8OexFzCG_IKEhryH3L1STaTOL8vQew4GJMaea7IYlW44RsoN7PJFauBqFejk_iZrpMshigT-Io9SiLA7m3HXuO8p8BG81yMST9bscfqbL9-xoBpqfVkf_PU4g0iX3y4-BeN0o51Qiw/s1600/DSC05146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmj8OexFzCG_IKEhryH3L1STaTOL8vQew4GJMaea7IYlW44RsoN7PJFauBqFejk_iZrpMshigT-Io9SiLA7m3HXuO8p8BG81yMST9bscfqbL9-xoBpqfVkf_PU4g0iX3y4-BeN0o51Qiw/s400/DSC05146.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP6ubnJM00Rb3XB0ObUrgnLhlELBHW8S6P7cBocYCZKclmxvkcZKzxhXXYeNJH4B5Sn44_Rw_N8KJiI_LAEMLZ4AVtS2oYhR4lX4gZyNadMdpQUedekSkVraebez0v4-OxcHBmvl9Fj5R/s1600/DSC05155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP6ubnJM00Rb3XB0ObUrgnLhlELBHW8S6P7cBocYCZKclmxvkcZKzxhXXYeNJH4B5Sn44_Rw_N8KJiI_LAEMLZ4AVtS2oYhR4lX4gZyNadMdpQUedekSkVraebez0v4-OxcHBmvl9Fj5R/s400/DSC05155.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Historically, Girona is fascinating. The Romans took over Girona because it was in the middle of the road leading from Rome to Gibraltar, an important trade route. Hence, they wanted Girona just so they could protect the road. The road still exists today! According to the guide, if you follow the road 1,000 miles north, you'll reach Rome. All roads do lead to Rome, after all?<br />
<br />
Cars still travel on this road. In Spain, I find that roads for cars and pavements for pedestrians tend to blend into each other, they're all the same colour. And the cars seem to be able to navigate into the narrowest of spaces!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4PhGJWlcerdgWTg7qQIpjDFk9x_kkP0zrHmC7uN3hN2BzOZ0Kx1iXfbvQ3aokC46quSKcctyP_xcIDTiTzkyVPV3gmtZ-lP9cbj_C3qJA_4wxBr2ZWmAvF1gMWvK9AtEbkxHXqMKHtlq/s1600/DSC05073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4PhGJWlcerdgWTg7qQIpjDFk9x_kkP0zrHmC7uN3hN2BzOZ0Kx1iXfbvQ3aokC46quSKcctyP_xcIDTiTzkyVPV3gmtZ-lP9cbj_C3qJA_4wxBr2ZWmAvF1gMWvK9AtEbkxHXqMKHtlq/s400/DSC05073.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road to Rome</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Girona was the setting for King's Landing and Bravos in Game of Thrones. One of the locations was this church:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGk6exPGxVJyi6bXf-nNZY_cS0ZNFLlUw2hw3NBHEqycjR-CouPdEvtWZbxLos1zMmHW3QQfgrNu4XA71Oh9TG4AKJ0XN-i-tD6bJ0HyjiRqjqXnMLJn4HF3LdnFmgf16mga-BUjW-ArS/s1600/DSC05072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGk6exPGxVJyi6bXf-nNZY_cS0ZNFLlUw2hw3NBHEqycjR-CouPdEvtWZbxLos1zMmHW3QQfgrNu4XA71Oh9TG4AKJ0XN-i-tD6bJ0HyjiRqjqXnMLJn4HF3LdnFmgf16mga-BUjW-ArS/s400/DSC05072.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The other was the main cathedral of Girona. Jaime Lannister was filmed riding up these steps on a white horse. But the scene where Cersei had to do the walk of shame naked was not shot here because the church felt it would be disrespectful.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ng5-a2ALRXxKJ6t0eSdHP4QPt-WxXgdd6a4AIt9aSh2N4Lwknb8yVLnk2dsUONkqR9EMzNwq9PIuIKRsqxfChIUJTp8eAM7dNCcIUT3pDDqlLo7tihVCgbnJComNmUGve3524x0k4OYc/s1600/DSC05084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Ng5-a2ALRXxKJ6t0eSdHP4QPt-WxXgdd6a4AIt9aSh2N4Lwknb8yVLnk2dsUONkqR9EMzNwq9PIuIKRsqxfChIUJTp8eAM7dNCcIUT3pDDqlLo7tihVCgbnJComNmUGve3524x0k4OYc/s400/DSC05084.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
The cathedral faces a wall but in the tv series, they green screened an ocean on it. In real life, the cathedral is pretty interesting. The facade reads 1733 which was when the cathedral was completed. However, construction began some 400 years earlier in the 1300s! Apparently cathedrals were built from the back to front, so the interior was Gothic architecture and by the cathedral was completed, fashion had changed and the facade is in Baroque style.<br />
<br />
A cute legend the guide told us about Girona: in 1285, the French besieged Girona and desecrated the tomb of Sant Narcis, the patron saint of Girona. When they stole the rings off his fingers, the corpse sat up and sent an army of magical flies that attacked the French soldiers, who started dropping dead like...err...flies, upon which they retreated. That's why flies feature quite abundantly in Catalan art, including those of Salvador Dali.<br />
<br />
For lunch, we stopped at a very inviting cafe with a seemingly endless array of sandwiches and pastries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhmfWysmzHTs7xU6nc1oBlPwr1KUJ6ewvf9AKKXEWuBkgARXb0vQvIxp0TxIOCGh9veIP29sUqpnYMxYR1pYk3NBORno9xvQpwtY8OoSsu3do0pQ__hqT04OKAV_OilXl00J47Afe94mH/s1600/DSC05107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhmfWysmzHTs7xU6nc1oBlPwr1KUJ6ewvf9AKKXEWuBkgARXb0vQvIxp0TxIOCGh9veIP29sUqpnYMxYR1pYk3NBORno9xvQpwtY8OoSsu3do0pQ__hqT04OKAV_OilXl00J47Afe94mH/s400/DSC05107.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGMnYo7U3AG14q-KOpOXtateIRklKYPOajKVTSg4X6r6jqNHlM7RR46KUeRJDZ8l1Q4BKZgHkQNCuHxheYDTUnnjintA4srJ4VQc04Zny4m9sJ1WBjtKqjQUuZMkD6q6JfI26vlvOYqgk/s1600/DSC05111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGMnYo7U3AG14q-KOpOXtateIRklKYPOajKVTSg4X6r6jqNHlM7RR46KUeRJDZ8l1Q4BKZgHkQNCuHxheYDTUnnjintA4srJ4VQc04Zny4m9sJ1WBjtKqjQUuZMkD6q6JfI26vlvOYqgk/s400/DSC05111.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We ordered two different jamon sandwiches, one hot, one cold. We can't get enough of these. Shouldn't be that spectacular - a ham sandwich but somehow, Iberian ham is tasty without being overly salty and is always paired with the most delicious cheese.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbqXNtOtAJRVFEMVZrgU0p46yFas5GHm-hg7ctMo369pEwNzRADh04sI9qWMA4Gyw9obILFc4d3N_IM0Os4uM9-VJhuyGdEHe7DwPJTuaOC3T6hCnO7pbXmfHf257Q28cVoB_tbuiaEFX/s1600/DSC05109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAbqXNtOtAJRVFEMVZrgU0p46yFas5GHm-hg7ctMo369pEwNzRADh04sI9qWMA4Gyw9obILFc4d3N_IM0Os4uM9-VJhuyGdEHe7DwPJTuaOC3T6hCnO7pbXmfHf257Q28cVoB_tbuiaEFX/s400/DSC05109.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Andre loved it so much he ordered a second sandwich immediately after. And it's cheap too, just €10 for 3 quality jamon sandwiches and coffee!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorH2SR7swQJaYIAwY1vggR8YTQwzpSxTksXzUnKDvo9LH2IAS9BnnkyuT7qLKYV2-0eARUcEbZ8Plu60GJ4iP9PDaKoogA0A_sxKo_EkKQRvieJMQHPBUO4HUUQSgahXpFn7iAkXamLdB/s1600/20190613_180201+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorH2SR7swQJaYIAwY1vggR8YTQwzpSxTksXzUnKDvo9LH2IAS9BnnkyuT7qLKYV2-0eARUcEbZ8Plu60GJ4iP9PDaKoogA0A_sxKo_EkKQRvieJMQHPBUO4HUUQSgahXpFn7iAkXamLdB/s400/20190613_180201+ed.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
And gelato to finish the meal. This ice cream shop was opened by Raco, a 3 Michelin star chef, so if you can't afford to eat at the restaurant, you can at least get a cone.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDN7WQQkT3yxWfoqLEb_xhwlU1VpoTI7sG28vzR4qsjARcQo4y78o7ck7pEY5DhMS8jIlntj7tSeFmZyVxXK98mb1C956iyPl7wYuuiouubTW0pp_vuWjVIoAoXPcAZh8Y2zvVTzJHMBl/s1600/DSC05114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGDN7WQQkT3yxWfoqLEb_xhwlU1VpoTI7sG28vzR4qsjARcQo4y78o7ck7pEY5DhMS8jIlntj7tSeFmZyVxXK98mb1C956iyPl7wYuuiouubTW0pp_vuWjVIoAoXPcAZh8Y2zvVTzJHMBl/s400/DSC05114.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedO13oVoHz_eLP8CGUnD3rTzsF_ORI3A0fLwBxe5rtZQ4X5jPmzf9wVV-843yZZeJsO38JQAaAgd0X_IXrFnsnNTHupoPyo0jrf3sn-JFs1WigiuM5HXvpVNjNIE2GccPpy1eMBFwfR0J/s1600/DSC05118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiedO13oVoHz_eLP8CGUnD3rTzsF_ORI3A0fLwBxe5rtZQ4X5jPmzf9wVV-843yZZeJsO38JQAaAgd0X_IXrFnsnNTHupoPyo0jrf3sn-JFs1WigiuM5HXvpVNjNIE2GccPpy1eMBFwfR0J/s400/DSC05118.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
We've had very good ice cream in Spain. The flavours are unusual and the texture super creamy. Here, we're having baked apple (really tastes like apple crumble!) and a Mandarin, passionfruit and orange blossom mix.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rDwbJUSYiqDhl2do2aigv9ea4efOnobuWarcZV-QwNTFFRzXmjfN6vXTxLgtrOEBIlj-KsyfLdlSSI-T1150-pDtWnQfilNHO9-6UdLJTX-129bjsV0hEU3zC11OG1bOOshMf2YsARHU/s1600/20190613_183754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1600" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1rDwbJUSYiqDhl2do2aigv9ea4efOnobuWarcZV-QwNTFFRzXmjfN6vXTxLgtrOEBIlj-KsyfLdlSSI-T1150-pDtWnQfilNHO9-6UdLJTX-129bjsV0hEU3zC11OG1bOOshMf2YsARHU/s400/20190613_183754.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
For the second part of the day tour, we went to Figueres, 45 mins from Girona. Figueres is known for one main attraction - the Dali Theatre-Museum. Dali was born in and stayed in Figueres until he was 18. Even though he later went to Madrid, Paris and New York, he remained attached to his homeland and settled here in his later years until his death.<br />
<br />
This museum is special because it belonged to him - he bought the land and designed the building himself, which explains why it's so quirky. When he was alive, it served as a theatre and arts venue, and was only turned it into a museum later. He's buried in a crypt in the museum. The facade of the building has two recurring items on the roof: the egg, which symbolised creation to Dali, and the Oscar statuette, except Dali's version is a woman because he was a feminist :D<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltTtvDPGfmVWh_SD5bHX9CT7pP3kd-dmd2g4O-0qahIKzDOvuhjFRSjgMfuk8LUQShTFJsk15nTNN-PNsb-1Dgb11I5hi4FTicJlLaf65aRb_LwcChU535_xx_v1VlwxEFrkpT1pFr7KS/s1600/DSC05221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiltTtvDPGfmVWh_SD5bHX9CT7pP3kd-dmd2g4O-0qahIKzDOvuhjFRSjgMfuk8LUQShTFJsk15nTNN-PNsb-1Dgb11I5hi4FTicJlLaf65aRb_LwcChU535_xx_v1VlwxEFrkpT1pFr7KS/s400/DSC05221.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Most of Dali's famous paintings are in the US, since this one houses mostly his private collection, but there are a few notable ones. Right at the main entrance is a huge art installation of Dali and his wife in the back seat of an actual New York cab, driven by Al Capone (that's why the cab has a shattered window). Inside the cab are sprinklers and if you insert a €1 coin in the slot, it rains in the cab. (It's said Dali once waited 1 hour in the rain for a cab in New York and was drenched, hence the inspiration!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj-Pekco7rR2ntQyccT5XBfcujJ1UCS9y3eGSpeElz5BUDwnOfAaYVfloGpk9bscGE8XCn2kO6JGSy3yGs7Ta1lr9iVtEWBvYuslbvaGpRJBUbLFbTUk5SuwMh43A7_tInDk3oQNMcAwK/s1600/DSC05179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmj-Pekco7rR2ntQyccT5XBfcujJ1UCS9y3eGSpeElz5BUDwnOfAaYVfloGpk9bscGE8XCn2kO6JGSy3yGs7Ta1lr9iVtEWBvYuslbvaGpRJBUbLFbTUk5SuwMh43A7_tInDk3oQNMcAwK/s400/DSC05179.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTqUVXaKu9v9vSHuQWmTIb-BWkUI3_svF2S8er7rYc4tAFVnGrZxOraCu70qIYvotBbPFWSpD5xP4AnNCDFUTCP8FYfgYF-jCJ3bGrd5YoAFc4q6SAE46OD5WTfbOQeMfaGFOW9qQUdLb/s1600/DSC05178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigTqUVXaKu9v9vSHuQWmTIb-BWkUI3_svF2S8er7rYc4tAFVnGrZxOraCu70qIYvotBbPFWSpD5xP4AnNCDFUTCP8FYfgYF-jCJ3bGrd5YoAFc4q6SAE46OD5WTfbOQeMfaGFOW9qQUdLb/s400/DSC05178.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The museum is full of surprises. There's this painting in the main hall which looks like a women in the nude, but when I looked through my camera to take a picture, I was completely taken aback to see Abe Lincoln looking back at me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcekZDM2aecDJkfcDgzeg7NwYlMCG2rjBjvEbsmBb9ZjxWPembNzc5DHA0TLNAvmXC25md-3vCN7_4gq5uPgzmiO3dIroSoWBkCK4mvX6hVFg1r-NXNEzkfZTnxM-ieHqCsat-uhyphenhyphenj0IJ/s1600/DSC05195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipcekZDM2aecDJkfcDgzeg7NwYlMCG2rjBjvEbsmBb9ZjxWPembNzc5DHA0TLNAvmXC25md-3vCN7_4gq5uPgzmiO3dIroSoWBkCK4mvX6hVFg1r-NXNEzkfZTnxM-ieHqCsat-uhyphenhyphenj0IJ/s400/DSC05195.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I can't show you what I saw because through the lens, you can only see Abe Lincoln, but when you see the painting in person, it looks completely different. I tried zooming in as much as possible so you might have an idea:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSHnc5ehKvFRMQipaJ3sY56SV8Z_MiBhjkRA95vUyhBpItou2Kl2n-nqAINOl9GG8GGVo6k0XXLLJzd3kQrWbP3xhvHQBK7BGGmJBSdl-Zc79Wf-u0IduM1BfUWAtS0s11DNgef9P6pkP/s1600/DSC05207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaSHnc5ehKvFRMQipaJ3sY56SV8Z_MiBhjkRA95vUyhBpItou2Kl2n-nqAINOl9GG8GGVo6k0XXLLJzd3kQrWbP3xhvHQBK7BGGmJBSdl-Zc79Wf-u0IduM1BfUWAtS0s11DNgef9P6pkP/s400/DSC05207.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Such was the genius of Dali, that in the day when no one knew about pixelated art, he produced this masterpiece.<br />
<br />
In another room, there's an arrangement of what looks like furniture...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Uh4gEqlc5qt8g4AhvGkktbfn1vhmUf_0tKyihWmmWxt5InzkLlIH-Wg0syqkdu6D66WhgdYUQxEpdHs1N0kfYP3mu_fsyoJogG40PglQDm6QbLmtRirw3yVMoFpmzxV-DVaoYp0oGLA8/s1600/DSC05196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Uh4gEqlc5qt8g4AhvGkktbfn1vhmUf_0tKyihWmmWxt5InzkLlIH-Wg0syqkdu6D66WhgdYUQxEpdHs1N0kfYP3mu_fsyoJogG40PglQDm6QbLmtRirw3yVMoFpmzxV-DVaoYp0oGLA8/s400/DSC05196.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But when you go up a flight of stairs and look through a special lens, you see a portrait of Mae West:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbPn1iEZ9_-BkrtTiNmnS5ceLsENClljWhlYHSShjrZlxltkv2jinOmjsgqSsZ-RMYBEgW0KJJ0Co_xyTKO5WEzOIF_H4EIoqE7MAGiYDN9ZqiFYZXXm2ZXlg8sKfUVVE2E3r6rSvVpPt/s1600/DSC05198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZbPn1iEZ9_-BkrtTiNmnS5ceLsENClljWhlYHSShjrZlxltkv2jinOmjsgqSsZ-RMYBEgW0KJJ0Co_xyTKO5WEzOIF_H4EIoqE7MAGiYDN9ZqiFYZXXm2ZXlg8sKfUVVE2E3r6rSvVpPt/s400/DSC05198.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
There were so many whimsical aspects to the museum - we enjoyed it a lot more than we thought we would. Dali had wanted visitors to feel like they're in a theatrical dream, and he succeeded for sure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6j9CklBv_r6j2-evIgzlpgvPWOqhf8v6zka4hHDIcyz87HT0JcBdvyT7qhcE7tc2QPCMnbSBi8Hg2K0sjFGdCYDGJbeQcO5g22Xk2_0Plo3uWRrWn6qrzAyJ42LU5cmAN5DN-Qxr4A7Hs/s1600/DSC05202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6j9CklBv_r6j2-evIgzlpgvPWOqhf8v6zka4hHDIcyz87HT0JcBdvyT7qhcE7tc2QPCMnbSBi8Hg2K0sjFGdCYDGJbeQcO5g22Xk2_0Plo3uWRrWn6qrzAyJ42LU5cmAN5DN-Qxr4A7Hs/s400/DSC05202.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhEYSYqRa9NXKH0lPn713vvNv-m3jBBeu2tHFSqvcDYS0f3Hn_AToUgHyaYyK_fo2iWRue7S0Wo0Bk2Kw5WuE7KdMHBKjdGVUtOwKE8LdEGGmqxT0hs_ojuUUWlyokJA_WzC5bFfCcZiw/s1600/DSC05203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhEYSYqRa9NXKH0lPn713vvNv-m3jBBeu2tHFSqvcDYS0f3Hn_AToUgHyaYyK_fo2iWRue7S0Wo0Bk2Kw5WuE7KdMHBKjdGVUtOwKE8LdEGGmqxT0hs_ojuUUWlyokJA_WzC5bFfCcZiw/s400/DSC05203.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Xb518AgR8YLNCR-zkyqeeZ9pUSmr19aGbA1rBl1HH2z7DHWDM7nZkWS7C8jDNrVKEqDDRCpUKgCaOBlMtBHYGSKMsLc60-gfkTnHKtNUnEJ2LtFGZUJiJcnC3OSYx1Qt9WgIUV7vzv5s/s1600/DSC05204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Xb518AgR8YLNCR-zkyqeeZ9pUSmr19aGbA1rBl1HH2z7DHWDM7nZkWS7C8jDNrVKEqDDRCpUKgCaOBlMtBHYGSKMsLc60-gfkTnHKtNUnEJ2LtFGZUJiJcnC3OSYx1Qt9WgIUV7vzv5s/s400/DSC05204.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwNhc_NavB7E-QfT8TJZTInx_V17Luo5ieWtsNhJjTHcWcilC8OJ2Psn15TfHvvUBdCdCwsOppox566549nVEEaP4G9bY-M_8_BMm7yIxnYqy8npmniZlgsQvkGt9Mm2hkU6dnJb8otRI/s1600/DSC05210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwNhc_NavB7E-QfT8TJZTInx_V17Luo5ieWtsNhJjTHcWcilC8OJ2Psn15TfHvvUBdCdCwsOppox566549nVEEaP4G9bY-M_8_BMm7yIxnYqy8npmniZlgsQvkGt9Mm2hkU6dnJb8otRI/s400/DSC05210.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXABRP1jKy0J_4ZH6M_zR2tsQYX2rdt7MsLtkho5TYCwqyBZRkO9cIP2cMzqz6YJWmblc66lN9F-OIa6r_AlJDtJv3gNcp1qzeMDA6rhgNuKGhqT2GSJ9mzZZ1tqpdyxlgPiNQI9CCbnGD/s1600/DSC05213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXABRP1jKy0J_4ZH6M_zR2tsQYX2rdt7MsLtkho5TYCwqyBZRkO9cIP2cMzqz6YJWmblc66lN9F-OIa6r_AlJDtJv3gNcp1qzeMDA6rhgNuKGhqT2GSJ9mzZZ1tqpdyxlgPiNQI9CCbnGD/s400/DSC05213.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, it was a two-hour bus ride back to Barcelona and for dinner, we decided to go back to Crudo Bar, since Kenneth couldn't join us there the other night and didn't have a chance to try the delectable octopus.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjFwfkdx_1aB48bJwiyEq4btSZmj_fKDLZmvlOC63SzAYUnW_FsILqVnEdTW3wwDf55H5gAOneUDpqf1S7ES9XbLHnTESpVxLRA2D4wczSy5gOHZHonLdA6FBnB2DCDBjTWKLY7PCMMvG/s1600/DSC05240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjFwfkdx_1aB48bJwiyEq4btSZmj_fKDLZmvlOC63SzAYUnW_FsILqVnEdTW3wwDf55H5gAOneUDpqf1S7ES9XbLHnTESpVxLRA2D4wczSy5gOHZHonLdA6FBnB2DCDBjTWKLY7PCMMvG/s400/DSC05240.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled octopus with purple potato</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFfmxTH1K3CRylBhmUbYiNAQApvJ2zBDRnv4X5rtT-Lf66rPtlCmrwRp-cAY32El443OlBx-nnVznfDjO47hH4rV8lLWFwn6XyM5cioboIkPxw5JOj-78BZ-TJM-JYRh3o8uysiqQyD77/s1600/DSC05225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLFfmxTH1K3CRylBhmUbYiNAQApvJ2zBDRnv4X5rtT-Lf66rPtlCmrwRp-cAY32El443OlBx-nnVznfDjO47hH4rV8lLWFwn6XyM5cioboIkPxw5JOj-78BZ-TJM-JYRh3o8uysiqQyD77/s400/DSC05225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scallops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxEhww5FVgEJAfoRbiKFol24pKP6Pmni2wzJ6Pn8U0DGDBhMcpAwqLmatAJ7B_yh-Com888yL3M2LwErm46FIRNa_G3PuL3vbBghNhJhhWr0xrKslOA-Ya_6Z4SP0-A_jHmJpRmEAqbEB/s1600/DSC05228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxEhww5FVgEJAfoRbiKFol24pKP6Pmni2wzJ6Pn8U0DGDBhMcpAwqLmatAJ7B_yh-Com888yL3M2LwErm46FIRNa_G3PuL3vbBghNhJhhWr0xrKslOA-Ya_6Z4SP0-A_jHmJpRmEAqbEB/s400/DSC05228.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corvina fish cerviche</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mXVEK6nWLDjm1XIQafpC6hZM04Uh3vtzeG2Rd8-yBx31W4H83Io8NUfJCHE24MPmSHpiOOm4PC_64PaPJJRvrGA_c1rhpaBojR9v_gcHbkTXYqKI83p32dEzIBnhI5ezwRlVoUIizVDp/s1600/DSC05236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0mXVEK6nWLDjm1XIQafpC6hZM04Uh3vtzeG2Rd8-yBx31W4H83Io8NUfJCHE24MPmSHpiOOm4PC_64PaPJJRvrGA_c1rhpaBojR9v_gcHbkTXYqKI83p32dEzIBnhI5ezwRlVoUIizVDp/s400/DSC05236.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corvina fish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFNWx3pqHhqc1O-zsY8Cs7hQsyLpWb-dgAdG7BgQWKkRok6F6Qo8xD-hBpcEwPL71mguYnheq5MVWTUwvpUZVqQeR3oKnn-PFyXp2NzHYPs4Ls8_9BSNGi9XHKKQKz1-NnA1Fp06pZMz0/s1600/DSC05239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIFNWx3pqHhqc1O-zsY8Cs7hQsyLpWb-dgAdG7BgQWKkRok6F6Qo8xD-hBpcEwPL71mguYnheq5MVWTUwvpUZVqQeR3oKnn-PFyXp2NzHYPs4Ls8_9BSNGi9XHKKQKz1-NnA1Fp06pZMz0/s400/DSC05239.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimps with basil batter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgc8_Z7ocTnRdzxLCuxCzYJ4_2scXHARGnEF7gqs4yaHW3oaNQ3c1aWzpeq1II6Lzr3KmACdlcN0T7D1eQRiFWnYENFLPL-gxtpK8tdTa-Bi_8TPvTglf82P3qUEd2iq4GSt4ctAz5Sg__/s1600/DSC05233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgc8_Z7ocTnRdzxLCuxCzYJ4_2scXHARGnEF7gqs4yaHW3oaNQ3c1aWzpeq1II6Lzr3KmACdlcN0T7D1eQRiFWnYENFLPL-gxtpK8tdTa-Bi_8TPvTglf82P3qUEd2iq4GSt4ctAz5Sg__/s400/DSC05233.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mojito</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Crudo Bar is a little pricey but the food is great. Coincidentally, we were served by the same very friendly waiter we had two days ago, and she was delighted to see us. She even gave me a hug when we left! The Spanish waiters can be curt but when you meet a nice one, they're so sunshine-y they make your day.<br />
<br />
monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-11667957232730966732019-06-14T06:40:00.000+08:002019-06-14T14:43:44.971+08:00The best of Barcelona - Gaudi and tapas<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 4 (Wed, 12 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
Perhaps it's jetlag, or there's something about being on holiday that makes me wake up earlier than usual. I was up by 6am which, if you know me, practically never happens. Anyway, glorious day - the rain had melted away and I woke up to pure sunshine!<br />
<br />
This morning's tourist visit was to <a href="https://parkguell.barcelona/en/home-en" target="_blank">Parc Guell</a>, created by Gaudi. If you don't know, Antoni Gaudi was a Spanish architect whose unique and quirky designs have come to symbolise Catalan Modernism. (Side note: Catalania is the province in Spain that includes Barcelona. Even though its part of Spain, it has its own distinct culture. The people in Barcelona are proudly Catalanian and even have their own spelling and language!) Gaudi's architecture is revered in the architectural world, and can be seen throughout Barcelona.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYfI0580Yt_SZ4aXF13PSdZO81u4j0uR25pM2BHEsDgEs5-LpxvNRkyUoE5655Basg9yzfaaZY6jD0UWQTox1Gd-BE1wJEwFPtoPMEKXMlcBKu1GrsUO9VV27pkP2JienNq4MQ8Rzvvzp/s1600/DSC04780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYfI0580Yt_SZ4aXF13PSdZO81u4j0uR25pM2BHEsDgEs5-LpxvNRkyUoE5655Basg9yzfaaZY6jD0UWQTox1Gd-BE1wJEwFPtoPMEKXMlcBKu1GrsUO9VV27pkP2JienNq4MQ8Rzvvzp/s400/DSC04780.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's advisable to book tickets to Parc Guell beforehand so you don't have to queue. This is a common practice with Spanish attractions - the tickets have specific timings in half hour slots. I guess that's how they control the crowds. We had tickets for 10am but we arrived slightly earlier and they let us in anyway.<br />
<br />
It's whimsical Gaudi-style, with massive structures down to the little trimmings. It's a little like being in fairy tale land.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sTORBChw4RddzYKwTQZphKaNJSiHiXpIxSFWkWZ4Sec8k6IDXqLvQMxdkA-dtqEFNenQB34I65RAZargPq1xDOlYzInI1rxS8tX3xlCKCSPEH4CB8iiAww4fGT6x5r7Vyyy6NDikBuLH/s1600/DSC04701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6sTORBChw4RddzYKwTQZphKaNJSiHiXpIxSFWkWZ4Sec8k6IDXqLvQMxdkA-dtqEFNenQB34I65RAZargPq1xDOlYzInI1rxS8tX3xlCKCSPEH4CB8iiAww4fGT6x5r7Vyyy6NDikBuLH/s400/DSC04701.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOAj0MmtzSbiMVmEqG7pIOlHkArkLMJEtlWGgYD9RSzpG1CovCLBEfV5t4RDZWRPfx8wcK_SOdi3FLpLwMxRJWgOLCzgfDQrH4pqIbqgWeGev1Y0DzawkiS4XJ4F7V_w8TJIMfF5qCTzJ-/s1600/DSC04706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOAj0MmtzSbiMVmEqG7pIOlHkArkLMJEtlWGgYD9RSzpG1CovCLBEfV5t4RDZWRPfx8wcK_SOdi3FLpLwMxRJWgOLCzgfDQrH4pqIbqgWeGev1Y0DzawkiS4XJ4F7V_w8TJIMfF5qCTzJ-/s400/DSC04706.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQp0VATCrdPqbTqltMyxfMKwCv_Qrw4kgyBn2Ey2ZEWkwSMIHWT-Y5dcQJFaA8G1UJ9IdnJBCStNzg1UA0MoJ00_hXP2Idv44SCAt1p9wAYoY4LAPDU7j1u4QUtbCxqnXRBwCoxgMmfUe/s1600/DSC04756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQp0VATCrdPqbTqltMyxfMKwCv_Qrw4kgyBn2Ey2ZEWkwSMIHWT-Y5dcQJFaA8G1UJ9IdnJBCStNzg1UA0MoJ00_hXP2Idv44SCAt1p9wAYoY4LAPDU7j1u4QUtbCxqnXRBwCoxgMmfUe/s400/DSC04756.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRT34NtKeol7gvl0BDbTXYh43tKxBLGCfc3TNwILJ0QoghjA-01H2OM_Att0O219GpXHxDccs7lghARCcJuBiM0H76XkWz913cJ0LYSfwZvy-L7SLwe1BCE1-TadrM331LD8iqhhGKIGn6/s1600/DSC04742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRT34NtKeol7gvl0BDbTXYh43tKxBLGCfc3TNwILJ0QoghjA-01H2OM_Att0O219GpXHxDccs7lghARCcJuBiM0H76XkWz913cJ0LYSfwZvy-L7SLwe1BCE1-TadrM331LD8iqhhGKIGn6/s400/DSC04742.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This one reminded me so much of a gingerbread house!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvMV6Xtt7hFlKyGqkRXqmRTk3zt61HCRWUmj6odVGzABSVh8V8hSkWiCb04i_FqA42aVHgoDqeoVXpRAWMbbZNjjcZj1i5jIjmP7p01T1M5N5K_ACrWEqHMno_63lBRvyXAlrZ1hz5We1/s1600/DSC04723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZvMV6Xtt7hFlKyGqkRXqmRTk3zt61HCRWUmj6odVGzABSVh8V8hSkWiCb04i_FqA42aVHgoDqeoVXpRAWMbbZNjjcZj1i5jIjmP7p01T1M5N5K_ACrWEqHMno_63lBRvyXAlrZ1hz5We1/s400/DSC04723.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9eBlaorj-3MYlJQr_-VPsYwaWc7ta8ug-7c-s9O6y7loK-k2MRo5HsYca2C42kuFm1ujj6OaTW0E3KUKw7vNLa7I7ed8XvROuoTyGm3iqnSe0GtS635F2s02GKGaFmgK-UwgK1oi26b5/s1600/DSC04766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9eBlaorj-3MYlJQr_-VPsYwaWc7ta8ug-7c-s9O6y7loK-k2MRo5HsYca2C42kuFm1ujj6OaTW0E3KUKw7vNLa7I7ed8XvROuoTyGm3iqnSe0GtS635F2s02GKGaFmgK-UwgK1oi26b5/s400/DSC04766.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The park was a lot smaller than we expected though. Although we weren't anticipating Disneyland proportions, this still came across as a little underwhelming. In 45 mins, we had walked the entire park and even dawdled at some spots. There really isn't that much to see, apart from the few main structures.<br />
<br />
Ah well.<br />
<br />
We searched for a nearby lunch spot and walked down the short road to <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187497-d4057864-Reviews-Terra_Mia-Barcelona_Catalonia.html" target="_blank">Terra Mia</a>. It's sort of fusion (Italian, Spanish, Mediterranean) with good reviews for their pastas and seafood. We ordered a tuna steak, a seafood pasta and tomato bread. We can't seem to get enough of the tomato bread in Spain. Each place makes it a little differently but they're all incredibly comforting and delicious. I think it's the way tomatoes are done here. Not my usual favourite veg (fruit?), but here, I love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3NF2n59iSxlLlv6fTHWgdTsPKWfy2SJG-mmLzVDfxJ0lU9lmRgMkOY8f-CMNWOsRss_3pLuzP3ogyGwlQLzPKBZJNMGoTEqviP792b1o1lKgaaU1xYv0aPhySUlkxcUxv1KEk0u2i_tT/s1600/DSC04801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW3NF2n59iSxlLlv6fTHWgdTsPKWfy2SJG-mmLzVDfxJ0lU9lmRgMkOY8f-CMNWOsRss_3pLuzP3ogyGwlQLzPKBZJNMGoTEqviP792b1o1lKgaaU1xYv0aPhySUlkxcUxv1KEk0u2i_tT/s400/DSC04801.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8M89TS0_N-_4_ajzvDmRxdHGXxtGQLexVGnNRqmj6hQt7I9oolXX0j9D2mfcnNtp5EDbqHK6wIkSevXLBVBhWugQ32jQL-YnV76Rc0SoD5Mq5ig4QbJuYiieNP_cfzYE7QCXj3ImIF4B3/s1600/DSC04804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8M89TS0_N-_4_ajzvDmRxdHGXxtGQLexVGnNRqmj6hQt7I9oolXX0j9D2mfcnNtp5EDbqHK6wIkSevXLBVBhWugQ32jQL-YnV76Rc0SoD5Mq5ig4QbJuYiieNP_cfzYE7QCXj3ImIF4B3/s400/DSC04804.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In the afternoon, we paid a visit to <a href="https://sagradafamilia.org/en/home" target="_blank">Sagrada Familia</a> to complete our Gaudi experience. This unfinished Roman Catholic church is arguably Gaudi's most famous work and is a UNESCO heritage site. We don't have many jaw-drop moments but this was one of them. From the time the taxi rolled up to the massive structure, it was WOW.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaeVOouA2An_7lbbyqy7X5W_dnr7U5uG7YM_dvxkhyphenhyphenGUq1qNPVdHyJsmNul3k0rXfYUTDcNULcsJFDrFQIIllm9j56AF5uuKqLRzE1s7Dw4jypFpF23jh9tsuQwtz-YCYdjUmzYPXi7-g/s1600/DSC04807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEaeVOouA2An_7lbbyqy7X5W_dnr7U5uG7YM_dvxkhyphenhyphenGUq1qNPVdHyJsmNul3k0rXfYUTDcNULcsJFDrFQIIllm9j56AF5uuKqLRzE1s7Dw4jypFpF23jh9tsuQwtz-YCYdjUmzYPXi7-g/s400/DSC04807.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_6-0aNNq3TPQNI_UXw7ZhtSKtvqeRrsTJSCSkIKA4icCxWBpJ46Ktpboc2JLNhMB1BWT6vhdO5C4VJcxKjPKWg1QTSh-TmNlKEy6ZU0qaAHF0wFIkg2vdTfjWb_KQ2V2BahARuB6yfOx_/s1600/DSC04815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_6-0aNNq3TPQNI_UXw7ZhtSKtvqeRrsTJSCSkIKA4icCxWBpJ46Ktpboc2JLNhMB1BWT6vhdO5C4VJcxKjPKWg1QTSh-TmNlKEy6ZU0qaAHF0wFIkg2vdTfjWb_KQ2V2BahARuB6yfOx_/s400/DSC04815.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
It's almost like your eyes don't know where to look - it's imposing, quirky and different in every direction, yet strangely harmonious in a seemingly random manner. There are intricate details at every turn, in every structure, so we ended up gaping like little kids.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8phRyceat2pfOhZV5OfFiFAVQVDVXskA97Zc6ZvDOK9d4oAhwf2_TskUH9miwciX5E3h_zLWhq1lCHytAb9AGsh8HVBDnLwI8VRIhQN6m_JXT8Fd8sYoz2etHtH5I4IZ0GPN8DTc-bjGz/s1600/DSC04829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8phRyceat2pfOhZV5OfFiFAVQVDVXskA97Zc6ZvDOK9d4oAhwf2_TskUH9miwciX5E3h_zLWhq1lCHytAb9AGsh8HVBDnLwI8VRIhQN6m_JXT8Fd8sYoz2etHtH5I4IZ0GPN8DTc-bjGz/s400/DSC04829.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then you enter the basilica and more staring ensues. The pillars look like tree trunks shooting up towards the ceiling because Gaudi loved nature and wanted the inside of the cathedral to look like a forest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZhGP9kR3T4Ox4Qrd8xCS3jBNh4B7_udnwqgDQqB61_c28bGvCRvPC0h22QUohDxdHNS5-P9sLdX9nA360gXWJPgCjEeReRz0Pnj_x9cn-6yzv7hSYuAXy6ZxPnaMpBIY0f4WRAbjvU8x/s1600/DSC04860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZhGP9kR3T4Ox4Qrd8xCS3jBNh4B7_udnwqgDQqB61_c28bGvCRvPC0h22QUohDxdHNS5-P9sLdX9nA360gXWJPgCjEeReRz0Pnj_x9cn-6yzv7hSYuAXy6ZxPnaMpBIY0f4WRAbjvU8x/s400/DSC04860.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
His love of nature also explains why unlike other Gothic cathedrals in Europe which feature gargoyles and angels, Sagrada Familia has unusual carvings like animals and fruit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMXihXpkW05pKqXTK5e-_OB1EgDvtZZukgvZbWPUOX7knbjLDa7pZAicyXEhM-8P5vYkqXkvtl5q3lRipLdC_JEoqrlcSsA6s3vJNbCbNJihkYJm__9eX59AZNDIMZEyP4rfbuvQX93tt/s1600/DSC04881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGMXihXpkW05pKqXTK5e-_OB1EgDvtZZukgvZbWPUOX7knbjLDa7pZAicyXEhM-8P5vYkqXkvtl5q3lRipLdC_JEoqrlcSsA6s3vJNbCbNJihkYJm__9eX59AZNDIMZEyP4rfbuvQX93tt/s400/DSC04881.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
Also unlike most Gothic cathedrals in Europe which are dark and sombre, like Notre Dame in Paris, Sagrada Familia is bright and dazzling. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-1GdY4FhjEL829zuW1LImItPk0ekbHhUV7suXZUAO4t_T9kfY1Z5Gueb7hWd9qkbXfALr4c-adYzgUI8sHF-GTkLNprVRqxpeGPeBWkn2dzRQ-vYNla5hUy8xfLF6l0jRWYrw-tqJr-w/s1600/DSC04864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-1GdY4FhjEL829zuW1LImItPk0ekbHhUV7suXZUAO4t_T9kfY1Z5Gueb7hWd9qkbXfALr4c-adYzgUI8sHF-GTkLNprVRqxpeGPeBWkn2dzRQ-vYNla5hUy8xfLF6l0jRWYrw-tqJr-w/s400/DSC04864.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Gaudi designed Sagrada Familia to be a "temple of harmonious light" to lift the spirit, and he masterfully created a very unusual basilica where light poured in through the magnificent stained glass windows, in a rainbow hue of colours. The left side of the cathedral featured stained glass in cool shades of blues and greens...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2A8jCEzGI8JwYJi3GY0khLRPF0cCxQqrOnbmLYZDXTBRliI3xHEpH1tyKWpzd8DUHX8jKbbr9Ap5Zm0gY6kuG9DdANkZsLBI4ZvokjJ4JX3TosBA5draaBe3wdy0f5_isgl1dTvaMwj4/s1600/DSC04842+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz2A8jCEzGI8JwYJi3GY0khLRPF0cCxQqrOnbmLYZDXTBRliI3xHEpH1tyKWpzd8DUHX8jKbbr9Ap5Zm0gY6kuG9DdANkZsLBI4ZvokjJ4JX3TosBA5draaBe3wdy0f5_isgl1dTvaMwj4/s400/DSC04842+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
...while the right side, my favourite, was like a fiery sunset in its intense variances of vibrant red and orange. Instead of gloom and pomp, this cathedral seems to celebrate life and vigour. I absolutely love it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudGWvkRieoiRV_NcxaE5nRPiE1wXKsuCtztIDSOPeDaJIFsotJEEibDwmzIGCxUXM9ccYsm5lqbIgN5bbOmh3RDE4hpuLWQQ_4proVDlzsjbpg4UhE1l4sQQOj629c7VtMqCftBHkMvih/s1600/DSC04846+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgudGWvkRieoiRV_NcxaE5nRPiE1wXKsuCtztIDSOPeDaJIFsotJEEibDwmzIGCxUXM9ccYsm5lqbIgN5bbOmh3RDE4hpuLWQQ_4proVDlzsjbpg4UhE1l4sQQOj629c7VtMqCftBHkMvih/s400/DSC04846+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
In the Sagrada Familia museum, there's an explanation of how the colours were selected for the stained glass to create the reflective effect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVu6FBFeTLUug8hfedjnTw6o8S1ly1s2VvTzdpCAcTr5xy2uKhZaCJr0PQWp2KL_xLJniH4e1EVwpJ59tFpHMnig0456Szaixm8hSbZBhiE5JVWtWRVQ3-QvHCkaOpiOARGjjDneLGr-eK/s1600/DSC04978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVu6FBFeTLUug8hfedjnTw6o8S1ly1s2VvTzdpCAcTr5xy2uKhZaCJr0PQWp2KL_xLJniH4e1EVwpJ59tFpHMnig0456Szaixm8hSbZBhiE5JVWtWRVQ3-QvHCkaOpiOARGjjDneLGr-eK/s400/DSC04978.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had booked tickets to the Nativity facade, which features the life of Christ. (Here's a small section of it - you can see Mary and Joseph, Herod's killing of the babies and Jesus as a boy).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Yhm9Qkt6wG08TJC4uBIYzd7atOP-txg02suVv4JHo_0gjScGyj1O1e7O97tRe-PTRv4bVrgLDhsKr9chcywf0ISeMyX0lDKfp8WKT1LtGutEXY-AVgJqG5Vw43iJ8oAUYVd6b3tJLxkN/s1600/DSC04937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Yhm9Qkt6wG08TJC4uBIYzd7atOP-txg02suVv4JHo_0gjScGyj1O1e7O97tRe-PTRv4bVrgLDhsKr9chcywf0ISeMyX0lDKfp8WKT1LtGutEXY-AVgJqG5Vw43iJ8oAUYVd6b3tJLxkN/s400/DSC04937.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
To go up the tower, you take a lift up 50 metres, then walk down a winding staircase of 400 steps. I thought perhaps there was a landing where you could see the statues, but no, it's just a short bridge and on the way down, you catch glimpses of different parts of the cathedral through windows or small lookouts. It was still pretty cool though, and from certain places, you can see a panoramic view of the city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKAETZ4R1Je3IO8-HMpcrIDcMLJW59s6nuFY2iEOzEeRbxsctlk0JF-_rph1g5TgyZHGKk0vN5sHQeVxTmXl6SZrvZ0lZEhN3lXQbxtfF5XchLZ7EItIi9o-FgsrU0hyphenhyphenh2m5MlhMgYFta/s1600/DSC04893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKAETZ4R1Je3IO8-HMpcrIDcMLJW59s6nuFY2iEOzEeRbxsctlk0JF-_rph1g5TgyZHGKk0vN5sHQeVxTmXl6SZrvZ0lZEhN3lXQbxtfF5XchLZ7EItIi9o-FgsrU0hyphenhyphenh2m5MlhMgYFta/s400/DSC04893.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODipDaO_ZB0NZ8yIiRMPWR0ozEKRARh2Cg1QgGexxBLafF361VSJPAy59nbO9cYQXRojPdH0-PNoiMlmw0jHvgQ4aaS7Bqob8FDGlIC33YrBSibJgp6jLR0slMtH0DZPEwamZzLScIHth/s1600/DSC04903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgODipDaO_ZB0NZ8yIiRMPWR0ozEKRARh2Cg1QgGexxBLafF361VSJPAy59nbO9cYQXRojPdH0-PNoiMlmw0jHvgQ4aaS7Bqob8FDGlIC33YrBSibJgp6jLR0slMtH0DZPEwamZzLScIHth/s400/DSC04903.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wqSd1kxQzgK3PVbC9e9-7_i7S2_gOZPLQOvAASyeRFC8YxY0n273jBs2VTdITnltMMLVFVYxWUB-MIZe917msWamro8q6fR3eIQEPbipBMS9CbzZ1DrwHWyLOxebMGsxHzq1BbkjTg5z/s1600/DSC04923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wqSd1kxQzgK3PVbC9e9-7_i7S2_gOZPLQOvAASyeRFC8YxY0n273jBs2VTdITnltMMLVFVYxWUB-MIZe917msWamro8q6fR3eIQEPbipBMS9CbzZ1DrwHWyLOxebMGsxHzq1BbkjTg5z/s400/DSC04923.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We thought Sagrada Familia would be the highlight of the day, but we hadn't had dinner yet. Curious story: a few days before I left for this trip, I had interviewed D, a church member, for an article I was writing for my church magazine. When he heard that I was going to be in Barcelona, he insisted I ate at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187497-d3353672-Reviews-Blavis-Barcelona_Catalonia.html" target="_blank">Blavis Raco Gastronomic</a> and even offered to help me make reservations. I said ok, but until I googled the restaurant, I didn't realise what a big deal it was that he could secure a spot for me. It has a wait list of up to 3 months and is ranked #19 out of more than 9,000 restaurants in Barcelona!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCN6v60zkRr7T0xRHZhBp1zX8jDb5gbO4Oze_LM9NokcsWzalSb5Yru6g7D6OLXzaS5hyphenhyphen0a_Z7Y4SozZu1qXE2t6RCHeQk6bcHMvKGS0WZUxIRM_1CRzLB_Ynyivt-9wvnxgj9xkzA9zEM/s1600/20190613_033917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCN6v60zkRr7T0xRHZhBp1zX8jDb5gbO4Oze_LM9NokcsWzalSb5Yru6g7D6OLXzaS5hyphenhyphen0a_Z7Y4SozZu1qXE2t6RCHeQk6bcHMvKGS0WZUxIRM_1CRzLB_Ynyivt-9wvnxgj9xkzA9zEM/s400/20190613_033917.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So now, curiosity piqued, we were very much looking forward to this meal. The restaurant is very small - just 6 tables and maybe 18 seats. It's run by just two guys - Paco who manages the front of house and Marc who does the cooking.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_rtYymsZM-MdBJrlq6GPmVzqh7UK4A0VrLvknL7AN4VPXaCQKnvAzxgPf_q4M_0ovNaGcqDv47A3w7390FoG0a5hyphenhyphenK_tb5NIv5XuoXOb8999LBv_wn-_wNcj2TyOySyrs4GH9HNc2GZy/s1600/20190613_012121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB_rtYymsZM-MdBJrlq6GPmVzqh7UK4A0VrLvknL7AN4VPXaCQKnvAzxgPf_q4M_0ovNaGcqDv47A3w7390FoG0a5hyphenhyphenK_tb5NIv5XuoXOb8999LBv_wn-_wNcj2TyOySyrs4GH9HNc2GZy/s400/20190613_012121.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
When I entered the restaurant, Paco asked, "You're Monica, D's friend?" Wah, I felt like an honoured guest! Even more so when I found out that since Marc was the only one cooking and he prepares each dish meticulously as it's ordered, they never accepted a full house at any one time in order to properly attend to each group. Throughout the evening, eager diners kept coming through the doors and had to be turned away because they didn't have reservations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YxcnDanZwMZnkTu_NTq2u3fakSpIKxjBz_qoLeefdhOxXrPiol864aT1tfxb-yKFe3fM108IucWnFfbu_Qn2AJYrgD2N6x-Er_B6Q1tnFMnj0p6EicL7DCw91OWmlcvx7NkB5xvdSCRV/s1600/DSC05008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1253" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YxcnDanZwMZnkTu_NTq2u3fakSpIKxjBz_qoLeefdhOxXrPiol864aT1tfxb-yKFe3fM108IucWnFfbu_Qn2AJYrgD2N6x-Er_B6Q1tnFMnj0p6EicL7DCw91OWmlcvx7NkB5xvdSCRV/s320/DSC05008.JPG" width="250" /></a>Paco ran through the menu with us, describing each item with detail. We asked him for his recommendations, and ordered 6 tapas and a side of tomato bread.<br />
<br />
We also ordered two glasses of tinto de verano. We've become addicted to this alcoholic drink ever since Lesley-Anne introduced us to it. I'm afraid Andre is liking it a little too much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzHKA1iOf1wBRuHSlJ1jj5NQC5c7Xo37uFvBwR0l7R8Fx53kf_W8dIthTYpbTanMGgrWTNXM6FCC6YKlRlIitO6xWuS2bghmy3F4wE2C2tiZt-RgHXQeRUsIPoM5Wzi6HOsDwMNx5oLPbo/s1600/DSC05030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzHKA1iOf1wBRuHSlJ1jj5NQC5c7Xo37uFvBwR0l7R8Fx53kf_W8dIthTYpbTanMGgrWTNXM6FCC6YKlRlIitO6xWuS2bghmy3F4wE2C2tiZt-RgHXQeRUsIPoM5Wzi6HOsDwMNx5oLPbo/s400/DSC05030.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Instead of being like a usual tapas meal where most of the dishes are served at once, it was more like a degustation meal. Each dish was served one at a time and in a deliberate order. Our first dish was eggplant carpaccio. One bite and we were staggered. It was an explosion of flavours and textures. This is eggplant? Good grief!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-0JRDeMLHoH2qv4KspkIT9VVsFeDbP3KVXqGcbhTp6z5mAZfZ4IcB9pLK4VOx-t-JpMbgZYQ0lT2-GCUtfKO3_8x5RqBPiNzghQwo8_20fXHASqyB_zZclH0XB23WKORDv6B6M_xyXXh/s1600/DSC05024+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="883" data-original-width="1600" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-0JRDeMLHoH2qv4KspkIT9VVsFeDbP3KVXqGcbhTp6z5mAZfZ4IcB9pLK4VOx-t-JpMbgZYQ0lT2-GCUtfKO3_8x5RqBPiNzghQwo8_20fXHASqyB_zZclH0XB23WKORDv6B6M_xyXXh/s400/DSC05024+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The second was asparagus with Romesco sauce. It didn't look very special but golly, that sauce. How can anyone do such magic with ordinary vegetables? I think right then, it dawned on us that we were in the midst of a culinary experience like no other, and we were going to want to savour this moment,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJS8kbRAyiXO1BAmecZ0M9MTnmwYCkrpZtrGuG3oR9x7dc2thxJM9PF55812Kc6gQLQu-Y4bON6G0iZ3Yl2hxpeEtzQ5zn4ufP9VkgAbep2Drabjx916FN9gFeVXsngwW1YQ2epiJNbHO/s1600/DSC05027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJS8kbRAyiXO1BAmecZ0M9MTnmwYCkrpZtrGuG3oR9x7dc2thxJM9PF55812Kc6gQLQu-Y4bON6G0iZ3Yl2hxpeEtzQ5zn4ufP9VkgAbep2Drabjx916FN9gFeVXsngwW1YQ2epiJNbHO/s400/DSC05027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And then the salmon tataki was served. I always feel like I can't be a food blogger because I don't have the words to do good food justice. Just one word: Heaven. This must be what they eat in heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZR2IFC1TrNKgtgcjKhjl7qV7GUTYIpfQFTVsuatmy8wwHBdHaudH1DesneWUtbw3ChRWDxGsfucj5NyTaZiiQl2AL1MnQ37LGJR4c711JZl9n0Qa9F70NE8oHDUOIpY1jWWGVifHecbqe/s1600/DSC05031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZR2IFC1TrNKgtgcjKhjl7qV7GUTYIpfQFTVsuatmy8wwHBdHaudH1DesneWUtbw3ChRWDxGsfucj5NyTaZiiQl2AL1MnQ37LGJR4c711JZl9n0Qa9F70NE8oHDUOIpY1jWWGVifHecbqe/s400/DSC05031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next, cod omelette. After the previous out-of-this-world dishes, I wasn't blown away by this one, but Kenneth loved it tremendously. He said it was an extremely comforting dish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GIfJ-PaWpoQcA8vQFyWlypHyvIU94LdDdTvCfAaQCFlW58wL0ZE16G8UjxxeUFrZ1ApgGNAleqs86HugdBjTq5Ru0lhbxA5K7c8ykf8ui2g7PK3TDnpux-chtrcI5W_rB94BzRT9pGOk/s1600/DSC05036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0GIfJ-PaWpoQcA8vQFyWlypHyvIU94LdDdTvCfAaQCFlW58wL0ZE16G8UjxxeUFrZ1ApgGNAleqs86HugdBjTq5Ru0lhbxA5K7c8ykf8ui2g7PK3TDnpux-chtrcI5W_rB94BzRT9pGOk/s400/DSC05036.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then, grilled beef with teriyaki. The beef was tender and melt-in-your-mouth. It's not our favourite dish because it has Asian seasoning, which we're too familiar with, but still very, very good.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoP2YG-FwqawEyXImLl_VzxDAd_VK41DK-xrh1MwtoiwK0MdMNTxPcIyOBlSKa5DVyzjnaN0SgaNSeGU5clYD615xQ_wdCBDoE54J5or6gIJ9MNJHOkEctvazDofKtojaFZ4vU6Ff5iONf/s1600/DSC05043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoP2YG-FwqawEyXImLl_VzxDAd_VK41DK-xrh1MwtoiwK0MdMNTxPcIyOBlSKa5DVyzjnaN0SgaNSeGU5clYD615xQ_wdCBDoE54J5or6gIJ9MNJHOkEctvazDofKtojaFZ4vU6Ff5iONf/s400/DSC05043.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, rice with cuttlefish. OMG. I think Blavis deliberately gives their dishes such ordinary names so that you're stunned when the flavours hit you. Words fail me. It's rich, salty, moist, seafood-y and utterly, utterly brilliant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVf2H30IgqZEVvKJdlqenHiWHs3g3WbfgGLUfiN6ioWcFavZhpVLNJRw58QzWhWW2qN9KT3f5U0UUJeSB0WHvA9t7IDTXfngBbPDadgv7iJ-Fcilx9mnnPDT8o2VrFU8DAl0wLJObMbVM/s1600/DSC05046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCVf2H30IgqZEVvKJdlqenHiWHs3g3WbfgGLUfiN6ioWcFavZhpVLNJRw58QzWhWW2qN9KT3f5U0UUJeSB0WHvA9t7IDTXfngBbPDadgv7iJ-Fcilx9mnnPDT8o2VrFU8DAl0wLJObMbVM/s400/DSC05046.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
By then, the dinner had lasted almost two hours, but we didn't want the experience to end, so we ordered dessert just to make it last. Two actually - lemon pie and violet ice cream.<br />
<br />
The lemon pie was a twist on the standard lemon meringue pie, with deliciously tart custard and a crispy crumble. But the dessert that took the cake was the violet ice cream, which Paco had described as using flowers that tasted like berries. The fragrance from that purple cream was floral with sweet berry notes, and the texture of the ice cream was a luscious gooey cream. Andre declared it the "best dish of the evening" which said A LOT.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIZX8R6KBZcXSRkGyclAY1qjS4EUOnzJKodHhwh_ax_FpPlIkEuwKD3PCoS2qPznhmP4gCO6BLoBbZn4jG3bsor4futQp8teZ8UzVjsOYfnZ_eLx_3oYXwsKxr9NrjcxA1l9DQXbPs45w/s1600/DSC05052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIZX8R6KBZcXSRkGyclAY1qjS4EUOnzJKodHhwh_ax_FpPlIkEuwKD3PCoS2qPznhmP4gCO6BLoBbZn4jG3bsor4futQp8teZ8UzVjsOYfnZ_eLx_3oYXwsKxr9NrjcxA1l9DQXbPs45w/s400/DSC05052.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This was one of, possibly even the best meal I've ever had. I tried to remember when I last had a meal this spectacularly memorable and couldn't. Every dish had so much love and care poured into it. The service was impeccable from start to finish. To top it off, we only paid €83 - for 6 exquisite dishes, 2 desserts and 2 drinks. What a gem. We loved it so much that we asked Paco if we could come back on Friday night, our last night in Barcelona. Alas, they were fully booked. Of course.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37ymCWTtKPKZ_lg_mMl1JCUBv2AiPJtomx4L_3OEKxR89Xl1mfNgPkEa-27ON3VGK8g_qIqhK611kdFhQrcCl2l4c5OTsfzcyUllAfH9VqAIWPQRMe2oDlRGZvN5k0izkjooH1ze708uA/s1600/20190613_032334+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1164" data-original-width="1600" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37ymCWTtKPKZ_lg_mMl1JCUBv2AiPJtomx4L_3OEKxR89Xl1mfNgPkEa-27ON3VGK8g_qIqhK611kdFhQrcCl2l4c5OTsfzcyUllAfH9VqAIWPQRMe2oDlRGZvN5k0izkjooH1ze708uA/s400/20190613_032334+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Blavis, you have completely redefined a gastronomic experience, in my books. Thank you and thank you, D!<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-17799077812113096672019-06-12T06:06:00.000+08:002019-06-12T06:06:22.692+08:00The mystical mountains of Montserrat<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 3 (Tue, 11 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
You know how sometimes the best of plans can go to pot? Today was one of those days. We had it all worked out. We were going to go to the famous Boqueria Market for a leisurely brunch, before going for our <a href="https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/3370-montserrat-half-day-tour-barcelona/?krt=s22&krid=0a1d9441-61d1-430f-48be-5b8bd227d59d" target="_blank">half day trip to Montserrat</a> which we had booked with Klook. Simple enough, what could go wrong?<br />
<br />
First, we woke up to rain. This may not sound extraordinary, but as our Montserrat tour guide told us, it almost never rains in Barcelona, especially at this time of the year. The temperature plunged from a balmy 22 degrees celcius yesterday to a chilly 15 degrees today. When we packed for Spain, the weather forecast was hot, hot, hot, so we hadn't bothered with any warm clothing. I didn't even have a jacket of any kind, only a shawl!<br />
<br />
We tried to get a cab via Cabify to go to Boqueria but was unable to. Seems like all of Barcelona was taking cabs, since they were all caught unprepared by the weather. As I stood shivering by the pavement waiting to see if I could get a cab, I realised that going up to Montserrat in the MOUNTAINS dressed only in my tee and jeans was a terrible idea.<br />
<br />
Abandoning our Boqueria plans, we decided to do a spot of impromptu shopping instead. Before we left Madrid, Lesley-Anne had told us about Lefties which is by Zara but at Cotton On prices. I googled and found a Lefties outlet near us and we headed out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbbQiZ9EGR2hRft8qyZYPBf2p3_nHNtjUucTWC42HePfRQP8tLBU3lxOQFMj6prBi_O3vTjQ6PgHTCqn7pepWe2G1tU1HXNUmPvTRYL8RV5m54NDK3jnDevUHIaNSE7TdEcx_tFim74ss/s1600/20190611_162507+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbbQiZ9EGR2hRft8qyZYPBf2p3_nHNtjUucTWC42HePfRQP8tLBU3lxOQFMj6prBi_O3vTjQ6PgHTCqn7pepWe2G1tU1HXNUmPvTRYL8RV5m54NDK3jnDevUHIaNSE7TdEcx_tFim74ss/s400/20190611_162507+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKQTrrAGgXcOizhW2GavqyANmS4Mp8zyEI0YAJyXTdqbfoVgkdNs5fUTTLA5fQ4neC8RbzTlHc4eVTHBqz4xX7jSFzzsJ-BvpqZXn7GqjTXhGBwpfhH5yndC1KJAHNxZnxoSVouYjFWAP/s1600/20190611_171223+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGKQTrrAGgXcOizhW2GavqyANmS4Mp8zyEI0YAJyXTdqbfoVgkdNs5fUTTLA5fQ4neC8RbzTlHc4eVTHBqz4xX7jSFzzsJ-BvpqZXn7GqjTXhGBwpfhH5yndC1KJAHNxZnxoSVouYjFWAP/s320/20190611_171223+ed.jpg" width="213" /></a>Funny how back home, people talk about shopping at Zara, Mango, Desigual etc in Spain, but nobody talks about Lefties. It's absolutely brilliant! I got this beautiful faux leather jacket for only €18 (I saw a similar one at H&M selling for €49.99).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Feeling much less nervous about Montserrat now, we decided to have a spot of brunch. We passed by a restaurant called La Tramoia that looked very cosy and inviting, so took a chance on it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMlQ8DVF61Rskx0JrtsYcft8F16DmFzriupb9ZAsDbd_gRPRYj2ZgNcFRjmKckaJ7oYl2ek9m2Lzci67rjCW4A-dz5QFTXR8Ja5MPp_Xt-xFpiitMNdOszNAFBofhEe31VeZdNDStzk0/s1600/DSC04584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMlQ8DVF61Rskx0JrtsYcft8F16DmFzriupb9ZAsDbd_gRPRYj2ZgNcFRjmKckaJ7oYl2ek9m2Lzci67rjCW4A-dz5QFTXR8Ja5MPp_Xt-xFpiitMNdOszNAFBofhEe31VeZdNDStzk0/s400/DSC04584.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It serves very good value breakfast sets and happily, the food turned out better than we expected, especially on a cold, drippy morning. The sandwiches don't look like much in the picture, but one of them was Iberico ham with a thick slice of brie that ran throughout the length of the baguette. The soft melty cheese complemented the salty ham perfectly, and the baguette was crisp and light. The English breakfast was tastier and less greasy than any I ever had in England, which is pretty ironic.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJK3VOLsDILrfjxZFb70UhKBnvU23Bt712rNAppU1yDyOuahCPh3_6vr4EunRbppXJsBDF321HdxJJWjyAfc422_cgYhk_yIYF_S0W3OUt9uRfoxG2ENazqMlYbYBpu6GnVESVYq5xcvo/s1600/DSC04579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoJK3VOLsDILrfjxZFb70UhKBnvU23Bt712rNAppU1yDyOuahCPh3_6vr4EunRbppXJsBDF321HdxJJWjyAfc422_cgYhk_yIYF_S0W3OUt9uRfoxG2ENazqMlYbYBpu6GnVESVYq5xcvo/s400/DSC04579.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then it was off to Montserrat! Montserrat is a monastery in the mountains, about an hour's drive away from Barcelona. As you approach the mountains, you can see the monastery along the range, which is breath-taking....so we heard. Unfortunately, since it was raining, the whole area was covered with fog. You can go all the way up by coach but our trip included a ride on the funicular.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gotldv9CrOSL5KiE55ijvLGWM2vxRdzEj3Cp1orJb0BJA34gTCIuiH3QZACGj0OQJcaJnm8Td-Lx2eMiFcU7-dLQ11kCR4GloVQMB5UdFzfDpotn0xfOMn82qmADxuS-0QFS8MoH-Lj7/s1600/DSC04590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gotldv9CrOSL5KiE55ijvLGWM2vxRdzEj3Cp1orJb0BJA34gTCIuiH3QZACGj0OQJcaJnm8Td-Lx2eMiFcU7-dLQ11kCR4GloVQMB5UdFzfDpotn0xfOMn82qmADxuS-0QFS8MoH-Lj7/s400/DSC04590.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC401Lc1O3XzD1yGJleIrDYkWhLfvlTuCQgn84rSbemwVImu8zfezslb2TyL2PmTtv_PdpTJlydLqazkZ6lj8AgvbQsxblrUbRPQa87sDtvsrUkPbR6GfFr_NNJBGrk7UHAZ11ycyyhml9/s1600/20190611_221800+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC401Lc1O3XzD1yGJleIrDYkWhLfvlTuCQgn84rSbemwVImu8zfezslb2TyL2PmTtv_PdpTJlydLqazkZ6lj8AgvbQsxblrUbRPQa87sDtvsrUkPbR6GfFr_NNJBGrk7UHAZ11ycyyhml9/s400/20190611_221800+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Montserrat was established in 1025 by the San Benedict monks. That's right, more than 1,000 years ago!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSK2H6PmdMEAp-Hivg-zStU4hZGMSJAwsBiLNQBsQw-DTRGvCcsVyoZd5f2SV3BFRDwY9S9akM2KiX6jLj8a9UuIYiDtX4O6ZSga5FASdOHGlA4R1GkS0yS9SsB5gXqu25NnZd_948N9C/s1600/DSC04607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSK2H6PmdMEAp-Hivg-zStU4hZGMSJAwsBiLNQBsQw-DTRGvCcsVyoZd5f2SV3BFRDwY9S9akM2KiX6jLj8a9UuIYiDtX4O6ZSga5FASdOHGlA4R1GkS0yS9SsB5gXqu25NnZd_948N9C/s400/DSC04607.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqsfUZeC3B4ezVYXYRpyCPWY2MvWFsxHzB1LAJs6rmDf0NiB45a7M3IaBj13Q7_D9MGzPKdFDZjH6FVqVQfxuRZ3XlHMOrFbxCIQFTOSsjMseoKAjA45qelD89lDUTN0n8S9qZl-fDDrW/s1600/20190612_000910+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqsfUZeC3B4ezVYXYRpyCPWY2MvWFsxHzB1LAJs6rmDf0NiB45a7M3IaBj13Q7_D9MGzPKdFDZjH6FVqVQfxuRZ3XlHMOrFbxCIQFTOSsjMseoKAjA45qelD89lDUTN0n8S9qZl-fDDrW/s400/20190612_000910+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsr8PivNLFZvvDRtLAPRhffusx7LCCbxs0HQfOWT48Mj-HmJoVHXI3e_mGihK2_oY5RKa7onvzmCRd_yZ3YhrFj4nNkorSytWEy6T9jhapT6f2ZC8mdYF3MGIoFwd8bcDbXCv-5YqQ4BY5/s1600/20190611_223126+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsr8PivNLFZvvDRtLAPRhffusx7LCCbxs0HQfOWT48Mj-HmJoVHXI3e_mGihK2_oY5RKa7onvzmCRd_yZ3YhrFj4nNkorSytWEy6T9jhapT6f2ZC8mdYF3MGIoFwd8bcDbXCv-5YqQ4BY5/s400/20190611_223126+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The main attraction of Montserrat is the basilica. The external facade is beautiful but certainly didn't look 1,000 years old, until our tour guide explained that the dastardly Napolean had burned down the basilica in the 1800s, and it had to be rebuilt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulTCPS5mwJKUphyphenhyphenXVE8ePgXO_T-Fip6NwA4yHtAv9FC3jsWoChknwucdkQgn3A6fx6-Mt1rt4AkA2fGIWODmXgWp6Kev0IpkEHr5c5ZV5DD2R7ms74Q8GIufsH9Dam7-c_CywACJCZWIf/s1600/DSC04613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulTCPS5mwJKUphyphenhyphenXVE8ePgXO_T-Fip6NwA4yHtAv9FC3jsWoChknwucdkQgn3A6fx6-Mt1rt4AkA2fGIWODmXgWp6Kev0IpkEHr5c5ZV5DD2R7ms74Q8GIufsH9Dam7-c_CywACJCZWIf/s400/DSC04613.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The facade was rebuilt using the stones from the Montserrat mountains. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oaX9cb-Y00ZLgoQewyofJW_GSwPHwFtvyFYdwA7Rtfn0BVBsyDL-HQmFuXFLqAwA_GbxU-ptTk3QrOdCeiRo3tVGrAz-xpmk-QHiHSYTmUgM8QcOWFwN-vh7NUpb6w-Fn07_f7pyCLEE/s1600/DSC04623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oaX9cb-Y00ZLgoQewyofJW_GSwPHwFtvyFYdwA7Rtfn0BVBsyDL-HQmFuXFLqAwA_GbxU-ptTk3QrOdCeiRo3tVGrAz-xpmk-QHiHSYTmUgM8QcOWFwN-vh7NUpb6w-Fn07_f7pyCLEE/s400/DSC04623.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Can I tell you how glad I was to have the jacket? It was still cold with it, but would have been unbearable otherwise. It was about 14 degrees up there AND raining AND windy. Brr.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkEVV4Y7DAQ8caPRidp7Nhyec8uYi0DmyjdG3vmb5NtZJCfI8qg9ORCz9PLjf0lQ6-5F_HzFRDSrVgV9inZMVy4xa86Mvl_S09mDAJasAaHlPv6D3I7fUG3WbcZXxbgStxuKNzm66I_gD/s1600/DSC04619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkEVV4Y7DAQ8caPRidp7Nhyec8uYi0DmyjdG3vmb5NtZJCfI8qg9ORCz9PLjf0lQ6-5F_HzFRDSrVgV9inZMVy4xa86Mvl_S09mDAJasAaHlPv6D3I7fUG3WbcZXxbgStxuKNzm66I_gD/s400/DSC04619.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
Along the inside wall of the basilica, there are statues of Jesus and the 12 apostles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07Z0nuimgdi40_GJ4AiQXKxlxjB68hAjD0Rv_wFINGs1mLuHYakvGkmUmaAqZZ8a-_gGUxH4_SDI5ATkchXs_278SxUGWF5xqdqtHeHi8cpBjU-H_y-KqEShlND_bCVEUxCDIbqCNq38o/s1600/DSC04629+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07Z0nuimgdi40_GJ4AiQXKxlxjB68hAjD0Rv_wFINGs1mLuHYakvGkmUmaAqZZ8a-_gGUxH4_SDI5ATkchXs_278SxUGWF5xqdqtHeHi8cpBjU-H_y-KqEShlND_bCVEUxCDIbqCNq38o/s400/DSC04629+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9u5h5sjuFTQAs2VL1iHyEnD8KvPV1ov3Q4Gr4D1yv3AncrNxvA4H0twzoRfnnF5MXeVyrHkLwwMwsEgbRhrYF1EGirdBoJLbkXHjsh6yG8QojWVOnxGTwD1PlfnJjnpYHClZCsfabfadM/s1600/DSC04659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9u5h5sjuFTQAs2VL1iHyEnD8KvPV1ov3Q4Gr4D1yv3AncrNxvA4H0twzoRfnnF5MXeVyrHkLwwMwsEgbRhrYF1EGirdBoJLbkXHjsh6yG8QojWVOnxGTwD1PlfnJjnpYHClZCsfabfadM/s400/DSC04659.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The interior of the basilica is stunning. Stained glass, carved ceilings and intricate paintings. According to our guide, 17 monks stay here, looking after the basilica and the monastery grounds.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJImKSwH4mup08alj7HknLuGECm6cH_kb3s72FIx1Omfdj7HRvV2PEw2e4tKTQrbBnYjkIMe2uCf9lKyCz9GHlwmwDFIknsJvAiLuV-nlwI9Ax1b9_1P_g0UHAuLMG-h8-q6lJlU3Xn7t/s1600/DSC04645+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJImKSwH4mup08alj7HknLuGECm6cH_kb3s72FIx1Omfdj7HRvV2PEw2e4tKTQrbBnYjkIMe2uCf9lKyCz9GHlwmwDFIknsJvAiLuV-nlwI9Ax1b9_1P_g0UHAuLMG-h8-q6lJlU3Xn7t/s400/DSC04645+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-WHTS24BKj5mpifJIi88Knq9b8GkxxBPAARN_Qx7ldlYKAYAS5tMGfbNWEykFMBpk2YeFv-Wdnc0f0Abisd_zZVQT-beBMZuoORuQ03C0K43P7yfjMTvFqnCquIe3fNjoBY4Fc3VJ46L/s1600/DSC04646+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-WHTS24BKj5mpifJIi88Knq9b8GkxxBPAARN_Qx7ldlYKAYAS5tMGfbNWEykFMBpk2YeFv-Wdnc0f0Abisd_zZVQT-beBMZuoORuQ03C0K43P7yfjMTvFqnCquIe3fNjoBY4Fc3VJ46L/s400/DSC04646+ed.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPJCkfe3HXgK8pDdsngdx5TrXeQjqCN1pv3VRfNQ-YAKtbay5Bu_DbmkZ9F8hQk3x1bVuMvd0dtKf6OnPUK1ogKbmYOtWDH3bV9vdBa0YsUIKbTjSMQVsdmD-EugkF7SE7n5bQkcOnHk4/s1600/DSC04658+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPJCkfe3HXgK8pDdsngdx5TrXeQjqCN1pv3VRfNQ-YAKtbay5Bu_DbmkZ9F8hQk3x1bVuMvd0dtKf6OnPUK1ogKbmYOtWDH3bV9vdBa0YsUIKbTjSMQVsdmD-EugkF7SE7n5bQkcOnHk4/s400/DSC04658+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Outside, we were playing hide and seek with the fog. It rolled in and out, so at times, we would see the mountains for about 2 minutes and then without warning, the entire basilica would disappear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZa0JWL3QCTx2E60Du3VbtvapmOWSh5b0sVzWbjjj8fP6H3-chfO-xXXF-0W_La2G3KwZD8bSows1977SGrw5cJ3eH8yOo6_wT2vzOlN4sRoalkbrSMy3Wq2VQlDpZJGBB0s99vR4y1tW/s1600/DSC04661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZa0JWL3QCTx2E60Du3VbtvapmOWSh5b0sVzWbjjj8fP6H3-chfO-xXXF-0W_La2G3KwZD8bSows1977SGrw5cJ3eH8yOo6_wT2vzOlN4sRoalkbrSMy3Wq2VQlDpZJGBB0s99vR4y1tW/s400/DSC04661.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It would have been funny if it wasn't so frustrating. I sent Lesley-Anne this pic via WhatsApp:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAVlpaJyNg-iZmrZ7APIrIfB7j7__35TUQeU03Gg1tzCCFkw9mqiNxu8-9JMNwhXeBbW3bqY7rkE1CBSXCweA71MC-Pxso-9VNt-A1fTEtruXfybl5l13QwoxLumS42EyYJOdMSUsTxfP/s1600/20190612_000436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAVlpaJyNg-iZmrZ7APIrIfB7j7__35TUQeU03Gg1tzCCFkw9mqiNxu8-9JMNwhXeBbW3bqY7rkE1CBSXCweA71MC-Pxso-9VNt-A1fTEtruXfybl5l13QwoxLumS42EyYJOdMSUsTxfP/s400/20190612_000436.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"See the gorgeous mountains"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And she replied with this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTTZGFjCVnFsFLa124DEEsg7cu04FWVY8jKZME1sfTu7-zCnXAQU8bGFZeMcVItt_Y-9tfVFWh2hyxG72w3tDPQDavp7Ifus8XAo3zRwWhpsH3dk8PngUXyIwqSJmun9HePamcPpnRi8e/s1600/IMG-20190612-WA0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTTZGFjCVnFsFLa124DEEsg7cu04FWVY8jKZME1sfTu7-zCnXAQU8bGFZeMcVItt_Y-9tfVFWh2hyxG72w3tDPQDavp7Ifus8XAo3zRwWhpsH3dk8PngUXyIwqSJmun9HePamcPpnRi8e/s400/IMG-20190612-WA0003.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Nothing a lil editing can't fix. There it is."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
LOL. I have such corny kids.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4pZnA3omtrzE7BLuc4CXtgHDAboCj4bf4j14TuND3P2TZNymG_ivK44x8b7KRf4nk0JvcJtjfMpP90imSBrtWpe9PwqwaGNvUYoWg-2BIJwRJLiuCtxvI-0QTM2ByuGBpuh5cuget_Z9/s1600/20190611_235045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4pZnA3omtrzE7BLuc4CXtgHDAboCj4bf4j14TuND3P2TZNymG_ivK44x8b7KRf4nk0JvcJtjfMpP90imSBrtWpe9PwqwaGNvUYoWg-2BIJwRJLiuCtxvI-0QTM2ByuGBpuh5cuget_Z9/s400/20190611_235045.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Then it was back to Barcelona, and it was STILL raining. Bah. We had made reservations for dinner at a restaurant called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187497-d12070921-Reviews-Crudo_Bar-Barcelona_Catalonia.html" target="_blank">Crudo Bar</a>, but Kenneth wasn't feeling well, so he stayed back at the hotel and it was a dinner date for just me and Andre.<br />
<br />
Crudo Bar is known for their octopus, so of course, we had to order that. We also ordered a portion of tomato toast and a prawn dish.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFALm_LBwNnN-KFKoAtkPcJaGC-ToXGDXTOLcBlyl1Y-HqqIutxpDoC-7VvXSqxyrTKO8EosZKTzHo9zhe7wTZvR1_YwJ_VwlJmh9c2Z8lGT9tIK-hgrbhyphenhyphenTKgPDQ3ok6_xH36ZOlAtRr/s1600/DSC04667+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1600" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFALm_LBwNnN-KFKoAtkPcJaGC-ToXGDXTOLcBlyl1Y-HqqIutxpDoC-7VvXSqxyrTKO8EosZKTzHo9zhe7wTZvR1_YwJ_VwlJmh9c2Z8lGT9tIK-hgrbhyphenhyphenTKgPDQ3ok6_xH36ZOlAtRr/s400/DSC04667+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato toast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3nQOKNsLd9MqWvrNNy0d7WpxxbV0IvS83tVjXB7TJdwGQ8iaWyzmVnmbgXZ7KeMWienoAb4HshUeFUMotDk70NKfMAQ5lgKToS0gjJbgdSBhwvmpJ1moalEb8490hwOVg6hyphenhyphenRjHOz6jr/s1600/DSC04670+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1600" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX3nQOKNsLd9MqWvrNNy0d7WpxxbV0IvS83tVjXB7TJdwGQ8iaWyzmVnmbgXZ7KeMWienoAb4HshUeFUMotDk70NKfMAQ5lgKToS0gjJbgdSBhwvmpJ1moalEb8490hwOVg6hyphenhyphenRjHOz6jr/s400/DSC04670+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shrimps in basil batter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzid5N4_BIPvh_nyWnDjiNnUnuf7upbGRol-LHetF0LlWwC0Xh0UNklte80gknexzx33CUNIwuSP-Hq-nSQvYPtPskTmCuHLCnycPNe-W-HrFyudoFC5gTOxHQKL72GkDfTAnlOu62Z6vw/s1600/DSC04673+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzid5N4_BIPvh_nyWnDjiNnUnuf7upbGRol-LHetF0LlWwC0Xh0UNklte80gknexzx33CUNIwuSP-Hq-nSQvYPtPskTmCuHLCnycPNe-W-HrFyudoFC5gTOxHQKL72GkDfTAnlOu62Z6vw/s400/DSC04673+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The star of the show - grilled octopus with purple potato parmentier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The octopus was out of this world. Seriously, how do you cook octopus so that it's so tender and juicy? I have been an octopus convert ever since coming to Spain. Unexpectedly, the standout of the prawn dish was not the prawns but the salad! It was so delicious Andre and I gobbled it down in no time at all.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCWjebmwdZATRb0Ftm6vVHVIe7Vp334IUoBSzKIZoDAu4aYMwY9H3Djf6MFkLqMZcLn1GKhVBrOewZI-Vu95b6Bptyx6xIPmaRri47aXNjcQoLF8BKzRsbi8uh7cQmubbKrCWsVY1uIre/s1600/DSC04664+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCWjebmwdZATRb0Ftm6vVHVIe7Vp334IUoBSzKIZoDAu4aYMwY9H3Djf6MFkLqMZcLn1GKhVBrOewZI-Vu95b6Bptyx6xIPmaRri47aXNjcQoLF8BKzRsbi8uh7cQmubbKrCWsVY1uIre/s400/DSC04664+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
And finally, a glass of Sangria. Just cos we're in Spain.<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-77590089918600834372019-06-11T05:52:00.000+08:002019-06-12T20:53:28.547+08:00The magic of Barcelona flavours and scents<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 2 (Mon, 10 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
We didn't have anything planned for this morning as we had anticipated some pretty bad jetlag. It's wonderful not to have to rush around when on holiday. We woke up at leisure, and decided to have a light breakfast at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d1027419-Reviews-Chocolateria_San_Gines-Madrid.html" target="_blank">Chocolateria San Gines</a> which is very close to our hotel. One of the quintessential Spanish breakfasts is hot chocolate and churros, and this cafe is probably the most well known. Well, certainly Madrid's oldest chocolateria, having been around since 1894. It's in every tourist guidebook so yes, we know it's probably as overhyped as Tian Tian Chicken Rice in Singapore, but what to do? Have to try it once lah.<br />
<br />
There was already a queue at 9am (though it wasn't as long as when we left the restaurant). We got a table pretty quickly though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPiN5HxxgtSHvVyMNtI10QI0fa5rqTjdO1Uy54s6SJfvb9ZyhIEkSlWlVRvY1TtJxEkdkE6U6RNwGvTKBRp4iQ_Kl1bW1xy9Me5JN67ziepZd6EIfPIio6t7eVxE2AbLRq1MD3LLAceN5/s1600/DSC04401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPiN5HxxgtSHvVyMNtI10QI0fa5rqTjdO1Uy54s6SJfvb9ZyhIEkSlWlVRvY1TtJxEkdkE6U6RNwGvTKBRp4iQ_Kl1bW1xy9Me5JN67ziepZd6EIfPIio6t7eVxE2AbLRq1MD3LLAceN5/s400/DSC04401.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
We ordered one set of 6 churros and hot chocolate for €4.30, a cappuccino and a glass of orange juice. It was just a tasting portion since we were going to have early lunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsnPJN4I-qh7YGCV1-T0tt0NXcRDiqYhyphenhyphenIgwqVHzHVvJg4slqmKCdOyCsI4PrN1t0EpqkT3rLWjeN2n-PG1pvEVdH26ydzIbShS1_uKUxZ78cnf4Ea1lkCIFgvnPZT4vvA-OjN8KIL00d/s1600/DSC04409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtsnPJN4I-qh7YGCV1-T0tt0NXcRDiqYhyphenhyphenIgwqVHzHVvJg4slqmKCdOyCsI4PrN1t0EpqkT3rLWjeN2n-PG1pvEVdH26ydzIbShS1_uKUxZ78cnf4Ea1lkCIFgvnPZT4vvA-OjN8KIL00d/s400/DSC04409.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6t3Cr9-w1rCPymjjnkz7JYYw0efDRvTtCPL0Lc-fuwBUAUk6z6v_A4egMJfzvEFVXHmWBTKt6WUdwqJi4lzplCAREWKo3fuqmHyVs2eZo-wWBe_9JPXlLePR2J_vcTJUTkC6eLpGP0O1D/s1600/20190610_153336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6t3Cr9-w1rCPymjjnkz7JYYw0efDRvTtCPL0Lc-fuwBUAUk6z6v_A4egMJfzvEFVXHmWBTKt6WUdwqJi4lzplCAREWKo3fuqmHyVs2eZo-wWBe_9JPXlLePR2J_vcTJUTkC6eLpGP0O1D/s400/20190610_153336.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Verdict? The churros is light and crisp, not the thick doughy you tiao we were expecting. The chocolate is pretty darn good too. It's dark chocolate that's thick enough to coat the churros, yet not so cloying that you can't slurp the rest down. The coffee was disappointing light and sour though, so I poured the remaining chocolate into it, which improved it markedly, haha.<br />
<br />
After breakfast, we returned to the hotel to pack, because we were leaving for Barcelona that afternoon. Then it was lunch proper at a nearby tapas restaurant that Andre had found during his research (he was in charge of finding food spots for this holiday) - <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187514-d1907082-Reviews-Casa_Toni-Madrid.html" target="_blank">Casa Toni</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVf227OPytSXsDdP9teTzjv2ufbLGZGJBItnGv3jMnMH8XPhkHBzAFTJj7xDcPzbQ8jXJ2X7CGwWlUHmn16gk7ARyev3MLM3VVXSsenRFdFd9BLZUaMzT3bAQji0WAdelHJ1hIckTj1WN/s1600/DSC04425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwVf227OPytSXsDdP9teTzjv2ufbLGZGJBItnGv3jMnMH8XPhkHBzAFTJj7xDcPzbQ8jXJ2X7CGwWlUHmn16gk7ARyev3MLM3VVXSsenRFdFd9BLZUaMzT3bAQji0WAdelHJ1hIckTj1WN/s400/DSC04425.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZKRfbUAe-OqBLVmjohNU9RF3tK7UI-6aWwufk3Hhg4uD2kwfqg9uL5iSuqrCPdfVRHAuMd7JSwiJF8aE7s4sbdsxXb9BgU5xd1aRlrBj5mPkHVDuYQE1DBljKblCfFg5Y8iGeUAbfzM4/s1600/DSC04427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAZKRfbUAe-OqBLVmjohNU9RF3tK7UI-6aWwufk3Hhg4uD2kwfqg9uL5iSuqrCPdfVRHAuMd7JSwiJF8aE7s4sbdsxXb9BgU5xd1aRlrBj5mPkHVDuYQE1DBljKblCfFg5Y8iGeUAbfzM4/s400/DSC04427.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a small restaurant run by people who spoke only a smattering of English, so with some gesturing, pointing and hopeful smiles, we ordered what they were well known for:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEplGyNv3IYQyjktrTPblLUG9W3YLQoHN30pCTuFVBgifF31dLlHVZHKQmVck3MEzTpZKHO87JJ2RD179oz5Vns2OXmihyphenhyphenH1cNsyxiVyZKCZY4VtmJFbpHArqHAF91gsq5Pm0ajB_ROeS/s1600/DSC04438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBEplGyNv3IYQyjktrTPblLUG9W3YLQoHN30pCTuFVBgifF31dLlHVZHKQmVck3MEzTpZKHO87JJ2RD179oz5Vns2OXmihyphenhyphenH1cNsyxiVyZKCZY4VtmJFbpHArqHAF91gsq5Pm0ajB_ROeS/s400/DSC04438.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lamb sweetbreads</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmOzB_9Pz9oKEMEj0nL3Lz7L95FrFuwSVTPdnjq39BoKU8VqAJSHmG5QK5GaxxCa3UfhArip2l2NWxi0d5YxuPsjn4iLGfD7Fgy5nr3LE05wQgVnLYeIYb_W_m3Xyu6OTEm16I6XWq3-u/s1600/DSC04440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxmOzB_9Pz9oKEMEj0nL3Lz7L95FrFuwSVTPdnjq39BoKU8VqAJSHmG5QK5GaxxCa3UfhArip2l2NWxi0d5YxuPsjn4iLGfD7Fgy5nr3LE05wQgVnLYeIYb_W_m3Xyu6OTEm16I6XWq3-u/s400/DSC04440.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pig's ears, patatas bravas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrNkVsWvsT0zMs3DSvTHXoL4jfzJ7l5We7qgOcZ-W7VWLnLcA07G9Vp9I8sUaMww26_sz4firvzFtn-gR6IQOhO6EgHC3PZU8OdjZGlr9VPyl6fR7Gq23rrjGPEfvUhrhWU4Ey3Ggh6Jl/s1600/DSC04443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUrNkVsWvsT0zMs3DSvTHXoL4jfzJ7l5We7qgOcZ-W7VWLnLcA07G9Vp9I8sUaMww26_sz4firvzFtn-gR6IQOhO6EgHC3PZU8OdjZGlr9VPyl6fR7Gq23rrjGPEfvUhrhWU4Ey3Ggh6Jl/s400/DSC04443.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iberian pork and grilled peppers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We were supposed to be able to order tapas portions, but with the language barrier, we ended up with racione (mid-sized) portions, which meant that we couldn't finish everything we ordered and had to cancel one dish. The sweetbreads (nothing to do with bread, it's pancreas) was AMAZING. It had the texture of liver but with a milder, smoky taste that was addictive. I ate, and ate, and couldn't stop eating. The pig's ears were...interesting. A little too chewy for me. Maybe it's because I'm not a big fan of pork, so the last dish didn't appeal to me, but the boys liked it.<br />
<br />
After lunch, we took a cab to Atocha train station to catch our Renfe AVE fast train to Barcelona. By "we", I mean our family sans Lesley-Anne, since she had to stay in Madrid for classes. A tip: If you're a family of three or four, it's often more worthwhile to take a cab instead of the metro. I especially recommend downloading Cabify, which is like Grab. I was given a discount code of €3 for my first three trips, so our trip from Puerta del Sol to Atocha was the grand total of €2.15!<br />
<br />
Another tip: the AVE fast trains are very popular, especially during summer when it's the holiday peak season, so you should book your tickets as early as possible. Renfe is the main rail company in Spain and they release the tickets rather haphazardly - sometimes 2 months before, sometimes a month. I was monitoring the site every day and the day the ticket went on sale (three weeks before), I bought them. A week later, the tickets were already 25% higher. You can book via the <a href="http://www.renfe.com/?cmpid=SEMgoogle2019junio&utm_source=Google&utm_campaign=sem2019&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIkITb39_g4gIV0qiaCh1IkwGrEAAYASAAEgLnFPD_BwE" target="_blank">official Renfe site</a>, but it's all in Spanish, so I booked from the <a href="https://www.thetrainline.com/trains/spain" target="_blank">Trainline site</a> instead. The prices are similar and at least you can read what you're booking!<br />
<br />
Atocha is Madrid's main station and it's HUGE, so give yourself plenty of time to find your way. You have to go through a baggage check but the process is general hassle-free.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQhriTjSMnOraE4BFbU8qVmFcAVSHy4CmMrCeXmC7kK0jn5T_QgTAfnPEj1wpIla320-m6CF-SlHZ0CAF9-4W-DYp1wODSnaD2Cg-SQ0kotnYONHtYtpcXaVH2ndj8gQ9ETpQMir-a0x8/s1600/DSC04446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQhriTjSMnOraE4BFbU8qVmFcAVSHy4CmMrCeXmC7kK0jn5T_QgTAfnPEj1wpIla320-m6CF-SlHZ0CAF9-4W-DYp1wODSnaD2Cg-SQ0kotnYONHtYtpcXaVH2ndj8gQ9ETpQMir-a0x8/s400/DSC04446.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIXCVP4_CeOD-BwXm5vforpAW0YjkRJDm8ABS-QznNW02A9G9Z3WJiDi2lxQ0ISWJmOVkrIY841aW3ExBRnSNGHJeWpJWBUngGCOZ9qUs9SVDhgkpvRJaairsvI3laJQBDlm2oggpyWmI/s1600/20190610_201155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIXCVP4_CeOD-BwXm5vforpAW0YjkRJDm8ABS-QznNW02A9G9Z3WJiDi2lxQ0ISWJmOVkrIY841aW3ExBRnSNGHJeWpJWBUngGCOZ9qUs9SVDhgkpvRJaairsvI3laJQBDlm2oggpyWmI/s400/20190610_201155.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The train left exactly on time and the ride was fast and smooth. I'm a big fan of trains. More so than planes, for sure! From Barcelona Sants, we used Cabify again to get to our hotel - <a href="https://www.hotelpraktikessens.com/en#_ga=2.57990378.1996912236.1558847715-1604768801.1557647501" target="_blank">Praktik Essens</a>. How we booked this hotel is a funny story. My friend had recommended Praktik Rambla, and I wanted to book it, but I was too late to book the triple room - someone had beaten me to it...by one day. Other similar level hotels were either more expensive or less accessible and I was quite miffed when a couple of days later, a sister hotel suddenly popped up in my feed - Praktik Essens. It's right at Passeig de Gracia, a very central area, and is brand new. As of now, it's only into its third month. So even though it didn't hadn't even opened yet, I booked it in a hurry as I didn't want to miss the opportunity again.<br />
<br />
Its location is easily missed. Along Passeig de Gracia, there's a narrow alleyway that leads to El Nacional, the high end collection of restaurants. Located modestly on the side is Praktik Essens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpni0Bfzos6DEzoYjQgcUh5efs9SbRozt7YNwqrkKKI4-Hf7fFc0dKAqpLh8tRsDfrCXuf2w0QblYHTLKDv8E8bwlBHKDAPbsBEeG9I0k26APfDfaepZ3au1w8fdzPPHl5-hnS8INq-sD/s1600/DSC04543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpni0Bfzos6DEzoYjQgcUh5efs9SbRozt7YNwqrkKKI4-Hf7fFc0dKAqpLh8tRsDfrCXuf2w0QblYHTLKDv8E8bwlBHKDAPbsBEeG9I0k26APfDfaepZ3au1w8fdzPPHl5-hnS8INq-sD/s400/DSC04543.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Upon entering the lobby, you'll see a large collection of scents. That's the specialty of the hotel, and you even get to pick your toiletries based on your favourite scent - herbs, floral or the sea. We chose the sea, which is a fresh citrusy scent. They gave us two packs, each containing bottles of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion and a bar of soap. So very pretty and elegant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXS9nxlpKnE6s5YBjF61MbN4vTmMEqBGTmKiH_G7udsbDymKDw7ZBl7Y9Uur_0dxi2lDCsF4icDYxTHkWMmpWbaKMUcsbyYxJnM5eF5kZFPnG617jknmAtASgFrrLfzMe2RxWZZjl4fNE/s1600/20190611_000712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXS9nxlpKnE6s5YBjF61MbN4vTmMEqBGTmKiH_G7udsbDymKDw7ZBl7Y9Uur_0dxi2lDCsF4icDYxTHkWMmpWbaKMUcsbyYxJnM5eF5kZFPnG617jknmAtASgFrrLfzMe2RxWZZjl4fNE/s400/20190611_000712.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSK5tH2OiAFwPo8J6o30L_EZNT-4kt7h2QxGArRlZ_pe4pTznZkvWXlAQvpN1NKb9iOs2nffgE1aaAXMMosFemOF54yCgdonrspEpa1Si1XLBCtzCwOAr64DRo53EcStauXe0lNDDhhnS/s1600/DSC04498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSK5tH2OiAFwPo8J6o30L_EZNT-4kt7h2QxGArRlZ_pe4pTznZkvWXlAQvpN1NKb9iOs2nffgE1aaAXMMosFemOF54yCgdonrspEpa1Si1XLBCtzCwOAr64DRo53EcStauXe0lNDDhhnS/s400/DSC04498.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Whenever we enter a new hotel room, it's always with bated breath. Will it do justice to its pictures? Or would it be more accurately described as false advertising? Well, when we entered our room in Praktik Essens, Andre gasped and said, "This is the best hotel room we've ever had!"<br />
<br />
Possibly an exaggeration but this self-declared "two star hotel" certainly went beyond all our expectations. It's impeccably furnished with a generous king bed and a twin. It's large, with even space for a small table and writing area. There's a separate WC room, a generous shower stall and two sinks. There's no kettle but it has a capsule coffee maker. No fridge though, but we don't care. We love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbCuuaPLoPazDgJV97H2aj7WS9Cc0MArtj7OATyjEdiEyYIDBOOq7_LGNvZm8ZbY51NvSfU4m7KN8ELWA2sUmMUC2K5a8N5jFh04jaddYG58nWKIb6GWWEhQk5LLPJ5BrY8cNndP_jxqDj/s1600/DSC04573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbCuuaPLoPazDgJV97H2aj7WS9Cc0MArtj7OATyjEdiEyYIDBOOq7_LGNvZm8ZbY51NvSfU4m7KN8ELWA2sUmMUC2K5a8N5jFh04jaddYG58nWKIb6GWWEhQk5LLPJ5BrY8cNndP_jxqDj/s400/DSC04573.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShPt2-7wX_C4IAREosrZ-0PCnbPSC0UNJaCedeusuqq4rPf3dQm6MHwac2Xfni7U-JuoJMQPvsCSZoDn6-7_5q7foZveRo9MJgKK0wjiGj2vcslMIy2rCFviaUustU9FWjwQ5N7cd2iqI/s1600/DSC04481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShPt2-7wX_C4IAREosrZ-0PCnbPSC0UNJaCedeusuqq4rPf3dQm6MHwac2Xfni7U-JuoJMQPvsCSZoDn6-7_5q7foZveRo9MJgKK0wjiGj2vcslMIy2rCFviaUustU9FWjwQ5N7cd2iqI/s400/DSC04481.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4DAr_WFGqphURZVgaBbpOrgn7qAdzimP-F5odP8a5TMqfOtTxH2o9HgBhQVFMxNSIdbXBi5Wzv0waAjdeV2TXdcQmvMCF3Gk_0lZBPlJpUKvHNnXuxslW_yn5u-OI0ZcF8NentnrIdDZ/s1600/DSC04491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy4DAr_WFGqphURZVgaBbpOrgn7qAdzimP-F5odP8a5TMqfOtTxH2o9HgBhQVFMxNSIdbXBi5Wzv0waAjdeV2TXdcQmvMCF3Gk_0lZBPlJpUKvHNnXuxslW_yn5u-OI0ZcF8NentnrIdDZ/s400/DSC04491.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
On the first floor foyer, there's a lounge with free coffee and tea, and an outdoor terrace. What a find! Missing out on Praktik Rambla turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I whole-heartedly recommend this hotel to everyone coming to Barcelona.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZqDrJhcRlH1oV_O6k0lUrReVtIa4XLCHLL4jc0vpf5j2u7qYeGneHxQ3IhqtsODYSjCFNJ0t7e295cTrqoSPbfU26tYEWsWNLuu1RmT7gYr_JOazZkXl2N0fKOWC_v4mbDYCOPxngL-w/s1600/DSC04562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZqDrJhcRlH1oV_O6k0lUrReVtIa4XLCHLL4jc0vpf5j2u7qYeGneHxQ3IhqtsODYSjCFNJ0t7e295cTrqoSPbfU26tYEWsWNLuu1RmT7gYr_JOazZkXl2N0fKOWC_v4mbDYCOPxngL-w/s400/DSC04562.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7r5E4qirfCH6eRQfLAnl-xxdsytgmtY7RQ-D0Yx-yrYd-LM-eNuZ23BXIX5aeaqIoUbV4iritHHrzXqdMD-VvjnFAAqxBqQN9dzIGeVkEICxPdJsi5GLk-7YiLkMZSX8gg2THzOW3eQ7/s1600/DSC04568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7r5E4qirfCH6eRQfLAnl-xxdsytgmtY7RQ-D0Yx-yrYd-LM-eNuZ23BXIX5aeaqIoUbV4iritHHrzXqdMD-VvjnFAAqxBqQN9dzIGeVkEICxPdJsi5GLk-7YiLkMZSX8gg2THzOW3eQ7/s400/DSC04568.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Nothing left to do for the rest of the day except go for our first dinner in Barcelona. That had to be at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g187497-d1059712-Reviews-Ciudad_Condal-Barcelona_Catalonia.html" target="_blank">Ciudad Condal</a>, which was highly recommended by my friend. Some diners online call this the "best tapas place in Barcelona". It's a 4-minute walk from our hotel and we thought we were early reaching there at 6.30pm but already there was a line. We only had to wait 15 minutes though and actually, the wait was good because it gave us time to study the menu, which was quite confusing. We were really at a loss as to what to order, and ended up peering over at the bar area trying to figure out which tapas in the display windows looked good (and then playing match the items on the menu!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTw4Z3mgb6AvQEa596wpGa3zuz0U4fNVC1WU37WDsGpZ3f1fXdsFrbZfKW4CgTCCYfz3g9MALjRki6rl-HI1hJRVTn-7KgJZ46nlZ5C5Niq75BnoL3r2X3G2HEwCkH_ivuYNriNKpYQf52/s1600/DSC04504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTw4Z3mgb6AvQEa596wpGa3zuz0U4fNVC1WU37WDsGpZ3f1fXdsFrbZfKW4CgTCCYfz3g9MALjRki6rl-HI1hJRVTn-7KgJZ46nlZ5C5Niq75BnoL3r2X3G2HEwCkH_ivuYNriNKpYQf52/s400/DSC04504.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In the end, this was what we ordered:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHR3MNwEd9E7p-pM48Z7pD8eMgfL7rKZtAPD2zVheog7IPAeTRDM5RtJsRNxLAEnCK2Al8wAao0L1MXX9nHVhTSNMvB7VDNOYoMrnQmFcvSyQ253LxYEHw8_GGI_thgVzSTYXhb4MH9wxR/s1600/DSC04511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHR3MNwEd9E7p-pM48Z7pD8eMgfL7rKZtAPD2zVheog7IPAeTRDM5RtJsRNxLAEnCK2Al8wAao0L1MXX9nHVhTSNMvB7VDNOYoMrnQmFcvSyQ253LxYEHw8_GGI_thgVzSTYXhb4MH9wxR/s400/DSC04511.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato bread, prawn and guacamole skewer, pear and gorgonzola, Iberian ham</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwva_KzWInCqdR0Lb94uoIOQ1DXTgrqR-3WN_k0MftLiFxeP0h-bI3IbqVgms5Zy8HgI9jnOH9JQDMzXCQZ3eAo2u11TWhf-yq7PATit7vJyF1GM4Ydq7akQnYry38WJbyXs2UhQBMybjv/s1600/DSC04517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwva_KzWInCqdR0Lb94uoIOQ1DXTgrqR-3WN_k0MftLiFxeP0h-bI3IbqVgms5Zy8HgI9jnOH9JQDMzXCQZ3eAo2u11TWhf-yq7PATit7vJyF1GM4Ydq7akQnYry38WJbyXs2UhQBMybjv/s400/DSC04517.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sirloin with foie sauce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDKTmpEz6N9sQUwpIvtNZfTt967I0yWbuxYQuXjqdqc4xS0gZ8vMKOsFPYun9acdH3WYULuWlmdu2cKJeVACaQDMJpQR4F4JHPYe7SA24ScG11M6utijg5bVnfLj_kG5zTM3mjAiG3Gmc/s1600/DSC04518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheDKTmpEz6N9sQUwpIvtNZfTt967I0yWbuxYQuXjqdqc4xS0gZ8vMKOsFPYun9acdH3WYULuWlmdu2cKJeVACaQDMJpQR4F4JHPYe7SA24ScG11M6utijg5bVnfLj_kG5zTM3mjAiG3Gmc/s400/DSC04518.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Octopus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-7eUIRUNCeIKWSagOlyy3-Q-yxnZz5fcYviI3siEIr6rzNN9rDq37sC3B_qu2Qu2qTTeuIEXNoNUGyZp7LvdgPWigOmGdD31DG8rDGCuMM2gSoSr1KggUOI8hlW1Rs1_DtYoPmn3vNoQ/s1600/DSC04520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7-7eUIRUNCeIKWSagOlyy3-Q-yxnZz5fcYviI3siEIr6rzNN9rDq37sC3B_qu2Qu2qTTeuIEXNoNUGyZp7LvdgPWigOmGdD31DG8rDGCuMM2gSoSr1KggUOI8hlW1Rs1_DtYoPmn3vNoQ/s400/DSC04520.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cod with ham </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4QH117VSqYvjQ9Qek96Dpe5R-qZa7-qjzltPEcPdfGR2iRBEI6Yyyx3LkiI-PsmY7tBHf4hKShlJ0uciUh1DUYYs3aW4iMufgR4YBX3jWl44ROtSUcBll1z-BOeIVp_TaEzhEsA1qKqf/s1600/DSC04522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4QH117VSqYvjQ9Qek96Dpe5R-qZa7-qjzltPEcPdfGR2iRBEI6Yyyx3LkiI-PsmY7tBHf4hKShlJ0uciUh1DUYYs3aW4iMufgR4YBX3jWl44ROtSUcBll1z-BOeIVp_TaEzhEsA1qKqf/s400/DSC04522.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled squid</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Apart from the tomato bread which the waiter recommended as a good pairing with the ham, everything else was an anyhow order by us. Either we really lucked out in our order or everything they serve there is good, because I'm not kidding when I say every single item we ordered was mind-blowing. (A couple at the next table leaned over and told us we "ordered very good items", then proceeded to order some of what we did, lol!) My friend had warned me about the curt service but we had a very friendly waiter who made us feel really welcome.<br />
<br />
Words do no justice to the flavours. How can octopus taste so utterly delicious? Simple tomatoes on bread? It's just unfathomable. The pear and gorgonzola tapas didn't look like much but it was so magnificent that we ordered another one. Simply culinary magic. We'll be back. (By the way, the signs on the restaurant read Cuitat Comtal but the name cards inside the restaurant are printed Cuidad Comdal. Spanish mystery.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYCIu3o8WnQG3-bHMAXlHx9kxHXoKxHu49W7EEr7l77k42UypOjlQslAwhsRFnt4NvAiT7DT88gT5R02jG282TBCopSV4KFd-36rwuf7qg_vDKPVfD_KD8YJFn4-wdaI8o3bf7cnsy4GX/s1600/20190610_195716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYCIu3o8WnQG3-bHMAXlHx9kxHXoKxHu49W7EEr7l77k42UypOjlQslAwhsRFnt4NvAiT7DT88gT5R02jG282TBCopSV4KFd-36rwuf7qg_vDKPVfD_KD8YJFn4-wdaI8o3bf7cnsy4GX/s400/20190610_195716.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Before we popped back into our hotel, we dropped by El Nacional. Not to eat, of course. We were stuffed, plus it's too atas a place for us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72Jn9vj9pcRVx7tZcoM4PrFtMtMnl5TqwjBBq4wuneMg1CuGrS2fou5S-et4K3KqUpsTGvQ4p03LfIggoNcu2v08jZ0eTCGNzRakRDs29ia9EJhZyndUGQ_lWhT8_gCxEBEQ05L44Nxd2/s1600/DSC04549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72Jn9vj9pcRVx7tZcoM4PrFtMtMnl5TqwjBBq4wuneMg1CuGrS2fou5S-et4K3KqUpsTGvQ4p03LfIggoNcu2v08jZ0eTCGNzRakRDs29ia9EJhZyndUGQ_lWhT8_gCxEBEQ05L44Nxd2/s400/DSC04549.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But we did get an ice-cream cone - a mix of pistachio and dulce de leche (very, very good!) Because it's always nice to end the day on a sweet note.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmvKB9bw1ir-5o11T3IZWg75INPKeQ7CqQyimj7Tjhuvbt4kx6B6ajAT6GO978To_MGSYEPHIpna9o1bPx4uLe4Qql9WV52LXfkP1YLYGMHuTOilwbV0n10EKn2J5BejSgmLqfAtj2Io4/s1600/DSC04554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmvKB9bw1ir-5o11T3IZWg75INPKeQ7CqQyimj7Tjhuvbt4kx6B6ajAT6GO978To_MGSYEPHIpna9o1bPx4uLe4Qql9WV52LXfkP1YLYGMHuTOilwbV0n10EKn2J5BejSgmLqfAtj2Io4/s400/DSC04554.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenXzQKTVhSlWmCwmQIWpH9ttdMmXP6Xejv56dMqXIVpbG8VzG-nKjLwraNZmbh6YId2YiVW8l4becMLm1IF8r3kgV0g5svNefJuwuu4cy53l3aDawOoh2jydUf6ROpycOMXz88vQ1eADy/s1600/DSC04555+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenXzQKTVhSlWmCwmQIWpH9ttdMmXP6Xejv56dMqXIVpbG8VzG-nKjLwraNZmbh6YId2YiVW8l4becMLm1IF8r3kgV0g5svNefJuwuu4cy53l3aDawOoh2jydUf6ROpycOMXz88vQ1eADy/s400/DSC04555+ed.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-65921027937634898022019-06-10T17:20:00.000+08:002019-06-12T20:53:28.528+08:00Hola Espana!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 1 (Sun, 9 June 2019)</span><br />
<br />
The Tans are off to Spain! Background: Lesley-Anne has been learning Spanish in university for the past two years, and is currently in Madrid for a summer language programme. So we thought: "Aha! Perfect opportunity to have a holiday in Spain!"<br />
<br />
Two flights later, including a transit stop at Dubai Airport and an excruciating 2-hour delay on a plane, we're here, sore backs and all! (Long flights just don't agree with stiff, ageing bodies). Our Madrid hotel is <a href="https://www.petitpalace.com/en/hotels/madrid-centre/puerta-del-sol/" target="_blank">Petit Palace Puerta del Sol</a>. This chain was recommended by a friend, and it's fantastic. Small but clean and the beds are super comfortable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6USGdyYSKTZYCCWSD6alAx1pwxHkUiIo3ztdJ9uEhONt-5iduH_GSFK-wsJCGzHzWjQjmWeNncKZbhpxWICT6eOEPNJJo__NAQMq8cwD7uA6UsNPqa1kiCVke9BK3HS2Q1xDtCoQmKFE2/s1600/DSC04288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6USGdyYSKTZYCCWSD6alAx1pwxHkUiIo3ztdJ9uEhONt-5iduH_GSFK-wsJCGzHzWjQjmWeNncKZbhpxWICT6eOEPNJJo__NAQMq8cwD7uA6UsNPqa1kiCVke9BK3HS2Q1xDtCoQmKFE2/s400/DSC04288.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGv5PywutP1CEyfLCx029XQ758KyaqW7-CJiDaDHZYy827w06ARdUHcHw2B1eztQTXkVTGbkNwYHX5ENXzi4tCSabi6GgVQEkqMQAFS886m0yGKQRVTOtNdIkXUHEDs6rOwNmTkF_enAzn/s1600/DSC04289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGv5PywutP1CEyfLCx029XQ758KyaqW7-CJiDaDHZYy827w06ARdUHcHw2B1eztQTXkVTGbkNwYHX5ENXzi4tCSabi6GgVQEkqMQAFS886m0yGKQRVTOtNdIkXUHEDs6rOwNmTkF_enAzn/s400/DSC04289.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhap5hblSdOoKGEiYkOhi0WR_cKuNhx1wt3ZE-Tm9h9aJgrb3NI7lGQC7HGgTfqGz80u9Mui6gw9wfhWZyYwsSZvs4v4hdtwRNyQ4kemxXiOFJ8ygIykAuRntp24-BQo-YWy41Gvq2_pnf/s1600/DSC04291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhap5hblSdOoKGEiYkOhi0WR_cKuNhx1wt3ZE-Tm9h9aJgrb3NI7lGQC7HGgTfqGz80u9Mui6gw9wfhWZyYwsSZvs4v4hdtwRNyQ4kemxXiOFJ8ygIykAuRntp24-BQo-YWy41Gvq2_pnf/s400/DSC04291.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsS5YxmseLt6-5a3LioNZsAgQ630c-Vhv81eIkfVSPR2vOAnka3g3igTsTqvR41Fbe-0vfDIHWKDvr9Bw6fPowOV_PanUGzIAC2uAk0mAVeiXPVVbKA5gGiMygqcjk6-Nh8ny9pDTbG_M/s1600/DSC04421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVsS5YxmseLt6-5a3LioNZsAgQ630c-Vhv81eIkfVSPR2vOAnka3g3igTsTqvR41Fbe-0vfDIHWKDvr9Bw6fPowOV_PanUGzIAC2uAk0mAVeiXPVVbKA5gGiMygqcjk6-Nh8ny9pDTbG_M/s400/DSC04421.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
What's great is that it's right in the heart of the city centre, above Sol metro station. Puerta del Sol is known as km zero, because it's right smack in the middle of Madrid as well as in Spain. Very happening in the main atrium on a Sunday. Last week during the Champions League final, this entire area was turned into a bustling football pitch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9I4MZXXlRRS4SCTr-w3ps723E8JStjWhb7LAy5WOl1K5FQvO1xUmYdhoU6qa3rtRJsbsOCGtgNzkFpkl6wRIumZ87QBnOl_LH1yKNJepVuqPT2YAPsCELVsvUwdL8wHx_TT5zaDndVcp/s1600/DSC04299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9I4MZXXlRRS4SCTr-w3ps723E8JStjWhb7LAy5WOl1K5FQvO1xUmYdhoU6qa3rtRJsbsOCGtgNzkFpkl6wRIumZ87QBnOl_LH1yKNJepVuqPT2YAPsCELVsvUwdL8wHx_TT5zaDndVcp/s400/DSC04299.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But best of all, we were reunited with Lesley-Anne! We hadn't seen her for three weeks, so it was a real delight.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPWnd0cFIwR670L7yrkjMf0uWC-anKmHTekpSRyFmwt6lR-juIajhK_-_CD7thNE1-0t5Yi7CNBJUUQ9YWCks4TbT-78ceW6jNjN69P6Wyk7e2V_Vw_CvbQKV29aRbOnFtePTqobFRiSQ/s1600/20190609_232338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPWnd0cFIwR670L7yrkjMf0uWC-anKmHTekpSRyFmwt6lR-juIajhK_-_CD7thNE1-0t5Yi7CNBJUUQ9YWCks4TbT-78ceW6jNjN69P6Wyk7e2V_Vw_CvbQKV29aRbOnFtePTqobFRiSQ/s400/20190609_232338.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWbZYQBVaLuTO-TckymN03BrOKzGwDuk3zhoOHG6_KRYtlKP7C8rK4VAv9drQG7lShcOH0nSR0_URDY5Umg5Q9fwcR3G1k6qn_uGHEQd3LlL_-goMnpXdMKVsgcgqemN-Fbi0xJs5sS7S/s1600/DSC04302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSWbZYQBVaLuTO-TckymN03BrOKzGwDuk3zhoOHG6_KRYtlKP7C8rK4VAv9drQG7lShcOH0nSR0_URDY5Umg5Q9fwcR3G1k6qn_uGHEQd3LlL_-goMnpXdMKVsgcgqemN-Fbi0xJs5sS7S/s400/DSC04302.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
She was our tour guide for the day and brought us to Plaza Mayor, which is the main square of Madrid, just a five-minute walk away. On Sundays, you see a variety of mascots traversing the square, including Mario, Mickey Mouse and those from Sesame Street.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WGeBE_6imuqY-9euW_j_fejWFSlgiLIdRJiwzNeE8V1_lXvTCY-xo_u-yJfJl0z7y2wJXy-08X5s1TDVVaB-f6cUXQ2dDdczckyC9Q-K6lbc0FnFNeTUwxuTvwg5ih02PP5L2Tgj1zjg/s1600/DSC04311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8WGeBE_6imuqY-9euW_j_fejWFSlgiLIdRJiwzNeE8V1_lXvTCY-xo_u-yJfJl0z7y2wJXy-08X5s1TDVVaB-f6cUXQ2dDdczckyC9Q-K6lbc0FnFNeTUwxuTvwg5ih02PP5L2Tgj1zjg/s400/DSC04311.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpW0JZcz6_yS0u97rh887V3MC0AhvdCLY0_cfmpd0OCd7dM6XW3VaDqXX2UT4CvJssgIDck9Mn8mYdz1V80OpNlvQcEhL0As9_PlPXUunF7ODCzS6RTrOzOdsvBvLqxeiOQ1DhdHmMWMuY/s1600/DSC04331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpW0JZcz6_yS0u97rh887V3MC0AhvdCLY0_cfmpd0OCd7dM6XW3VaDqXX2UT4CvJssgIDck9Mn8mYdz1V80OpNlvQcEhL0As9_PlPXUunF7ODCzS6RTrOzOdsvBvLqxeiOQ1DhdHmMWMuY/s400/DSC04331.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first restaurant Lesley-Anne brought us to was Takos Al Pastor near Plaza Mayor. This is a place that's frequented by locals because everything was in Spanish. There was a long line when we were there at 6pm which is pretty unusual because the Spanish typically eat late, dinner after 8.30pm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJCRAR3-8GY61R9QHayP-Wloi-b9KLkmo0h05efcML1017Jeqr4OusOmo_ewmeCngSUE3zNejCzajgbBoI_ZXa-EapJfzBUsixUCiCYtKWRYLWYirFY7tw4u7DyvK02a8a0h-Wvehoabr/s1600/DSC04308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJCRAR3-8GY61R9QHayP-Wloi-b9KLkmo0h05efcML1017Jeqr4OusOmo_ewmeCngSUE3zNejCzajgbBoI_ZXa-EapJfzBUsixUCiCYtKWRYLWYirFY7tw4u7DyvK02a8a0h-Wvehoabr/s400/DSC04308.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Prices are ridiculously cheap - €1 (about S$1.50) per piece or €1.50 for the premium one.
<span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuGehpvQZfARvSASytf-Joof98xTBAsr1vyOIPdWvwNdK4w0F5EoD64KD0Z5ePogxNW40eGtNAhtAnfNZ6RObm49dtCdhCxdaqSuLILnc1cSk__nUQUejzODH4U7dPGa6DdCcAeCs1Mm3/s1600/DSC04314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuGehpvQZfARvSASytf-Joof98xTBAsr1vyOIPdWvwNdK4w0F5EoD64KD0Z5ePogxNW40eGtNAhtAnfNZ6RObm49dtCdhCxdaqSuLILnc1cSk__nUQUejzODH4U7dPGa6DdCcAeCs1Mm3/s400/DSC04314.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It was quite amusing hearing Lesley-Anne order everything in Spanish. Like a pro!
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz3B7Qd0FMxUJtekM-iZruQTUfhTSwl5mHVykW8MtNyy90TxaMfzm6yoZKGUnBQIlfheVEJMC0CXN4UczZJWA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Apart from the tacos, Lesley-Anne also ordered two pints of tinto de verona, which is a refreshing summer alcoholic drink, a lighter version of Sangria.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJBq1dj_iATUeevIck91I702r5l1q_vAIanoPuE_07Dekg2uY6Gc3dHqun6fC9ROqElS70x6brNcpjWI0ks10jEzpiCGg6fyi5qWtXWM1g9ta5phQWkWjw6CIu_tN-sN5dEyD7-JUPUWp/s1600/DSC04315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJBq1dj_iATUeevIck91I702r5l1q_vAIanoPuE_07Dekg2uY6Gc3dHqun6fC9ROqElS70x6brNcpjWI0ks10jEzpiCGg6fyi5qWtXWM1g9ta5phQWkWjw6CIu_tN-sN5dEyD7-JUPUWp/s400/DSC04315.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tBfC_v-UKaclP4cMrCopNn2ndYkZ7kufLO422nL8dTcBaVhSV5DzarT84ugWJNvO_OGxODALx7vochMGhLro_KRtpOQnVQT5QX4YPiFszA1VnkFrRVTHsEVCanfRPjJUM0G1CH8niV4f/s1600/DSC04320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_tBfC_v-UKaclP4cMrCopNn2ndYkZ7kufLO422nL8dTcBaVhSV5DzarT84ugWJNvO_OGxODALx7vochMGhLro_KRtpOQnVQT5QX4YPiFszA1VnkFrRVTHsEVCanfRPjJUM0G1CH8niV4f/s400/DSC04320.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
All that for €16! Seriously, the best tacos I've ever tasted. That was, of course, just an appetiser for dinner, which was a sampling of all that's great in Spain. The Spanish eat a lot of tapas (meaning "small plates") which suits us very well, since we like trying lots of things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5dFMMNnwpoo5GWHoxjPnkflsLd4B83jQtxDyEc2n9ZiXKSXAEzBTK3SXrHmPPiXHUeZktSqG9_iX_fsXCXvduNkrVn1vjSPg0SC8Sy3MDD8RRGKQBTBKsTfG1ONsY0pNXcQgX1wuNXfk/s1600/DSC04321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5dFMMNnwpoo5GWHoxjPnkflsLd4B83jQtxDyEc2n9ZiXKSXAEzBTK3SXrHmPPiXHUeZktSqG9_iX_fsXCXvduNkrVn1vjSPg0SC8Sy3MDD8RRGKQBTBKsTfG1ONsY0pNXcQgX1wuNXfk/s400/DSC04321.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next on the list was bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich), a popular snack/lunch in Spain. It literally is what it sounds like - a generous mountain of deep fried calamari on bread. We got this one from one of the more famous shops - La Campana. The winning formula has to be the batter - it's so well-flavoured and the calamari is crispy, not chewy. But we don't really get the calamari and bread combination. Because there's no sauce, it's a dry meal and the bread is pretty substantial. We ended up eating most of the calamari on its own. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzF1CRalcIh7Mw9IjeJiB2q6s-VDZDUMhWjfkcV4bHjLHaQjJA_UqmQSmQG3-54GIKCrD6qdIogaWdEfnCuqPqJeyxMXUgoDLZxBrMMiWjD7914ozH-xF4hjsRQzzzn_m4Y5Qc5KJJBIj2/s1600/DSC04322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzF1CRalcIh7Mw9IjeJiB2q6s-VDZDUMhWjfkcV4bHjLHaQjJA_UqmQSmQG3-54GIKCrD6qdIogaWdEfnCuqPqJeyxMXUgoDLZxBrMMiWjD7914ozH-xF4hjsRQzzzn_m4Y5Qc5KJJBIj2/s400/DSC04322.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5k91nq4nXwqimVYP03YtEHAcT_Pl0zcn-pqYkc3oBjUeNXXifKhYV8JHEBkro7qZAl9bAabpkbBuYWcYn51z4XR9HHJ0QGBHBjU9rXWfxWE7LFxFtRgljJ3ncWeS7X_Lh_G2NzbLdqzF/s1600/DSC04329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5k91nq4nXwqimVYP03YtEHAcT_Pl0zcn-pqYkc3oBjUeNXXifKhYV8JHEBkro7qZAl9bAabpkbBuYWcYn51z4XR9HHJ0QGBHBjU9rXWfxWE7LFxFtRgljJ3ncWeS7X_Lh_G2NzbLdqzF/s400/DSC04329.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next on the list was <a href="http://mercadodesanmiguel.es/" target="_blank">Mercado San Miguel</a> (San Miguel Market). It's probably the most popular markets in Madrid, rebuilt from a 13th century church that was burned down. It's very crowded and very touristy, but must see lah. It's super pretty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTvtNho1HhmFImhyphenhyphenZpzx_7nE0ggriKb-WMWWdYdBzQhQERvi2aMZLVY9KRfFOUktZh_Ei9xxLcjGRe3TtfrStGhEcLYDlulNUYtqvaOR90SMmiof3yyb0mEEPtcxY2QXsm86Dyh7EXgQQ/s1600/DSC04356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXTvtNho1HhmFImhyphenhyphenZpzx_7nE0ggriKb-WMWWdYdBzQhQERvi2aMZLVY9KRfFOUktZh_Ei9xxLcjGRe3TtfrStGhEcLYDlulNUYtqvaOR90SMmiof3yyb0mEEPtcxY2QXsm86Dyh7EXgQQ/s400/DSC04356.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There are 33 stalls in the market, each specialising in a specific type of cuisine, mostly tapas style. The displays all look extremely pretty and can get very overwhelming trying to decide what to order.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Dt4P0wKfJx__oHWTlL6RdC74eHBOXt7Jos2zAZ1BNCxkmuNjTIFTFw5_ZHr787JAxPPcSOhi6mu7mc-Q4zqnIvRK8IhBXkfoWW1reJjxq6S_YfUE8VMPTp92bdoafXMuoPUGju6HwXtJ/s1600/DSC04367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Dt4P0wKfJx__oHWTlL6RdC74eHBOXt7Jos2zAZ1BNCxkmuNjTIFTFw5_ZHr787JAxPPcSOhi6mu7mc-Q4zqnIvRK8IhBXkfoWW1reJjxq6S_YfUE8VMPTp92bdoafXMuoPUGju6HwXtJ/s400/DSC04367.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmS7lOjWdNDZQ6_tnCEFxTHnj49qzdCVhgnbzIbE4KLRMH_sv1vsLWXRuIg0Rr-eIQpK5FDv_G6WdP0Tuco4CGHskXdbXn_weVhVdM-o_D6a5cuewrui1qXPpfYEfPTSWvPN4D5yNy_YaB/s1600/DSC04373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmS7lOjWdNDZQ6_tnCEFxTHnj49qzdCVhgnbzIbE4KLRMH_sv1vsLWXRuIg0Rr-eIQpK5FDv_G6WdP0Tuco4CGHskXdbXn_weVhVdM-o_D6a5cuewrui1qXPpfYEfPTSWvPN4D5yNy_YaB/s400/DSC04373.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd7ZppIL0QmaseXL26jonOhB1HOegbznKnTl85GWwcXzeLdvwTVZ7hSvyo0na12PbX0L2_lpgSl-KwplHWu0ElVys7EbS8mpOestvvNUQeNgv2Nt8D0rIECdBdIYwILrN9BOd6LXDPKho/s1600/DSC04381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd7ZppIL0QmaseXL26jonOhB1HOegbznKnTl85GWwcXzeLdvwTVZ7hSvyo0na12PbX0L2_lpgSl-KwplHWu0ElVys7EbS8mpOestvvNUQeNgv2Nt8D0rIECdBdIYwILrN9BOd6LXDPKho/s400/DSC04381.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cMjK5YUlRh0_h3eX3d021hLH8762vRE_dJwJAfWg1suEPVEpQ0Qf_jE9avy4Uz2nqDuLAaO1UxrAxrLJyzbJyrHKH71xO1WVT5-P8_aGDYYPYXO9BSRFFzA4PRg7LmADclr5UjECzUb2/s1600/DSC04388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7cMjK5YUlRh0_h3eX3d021hLH8762vRE_dJwJAfWg1suEPVEpQ0Qf_jE9avy4Uz2nqDuLAaO1UxrAxrLJyzbJyrHKH71xO1WVT5-P8_aGDYYPYXO9BSRFFzA4PRg7LmADclr5UjECzUb2/s400/DSC04388.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLnkFkb1IFJ95shmsiBxbCgPd3qIC1eZsbfif5MaH7uZYQFGgKt7N2HvnDf1a0fxGJ64Snk1yIogzBzsnQ_tcfR8fsDrjLsDy6v5MTE7ZHgO9MgRTs_CVqhEfqezvgfIYssYE5mPjm2vW/s1600/DSC04394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLnkFkb1IFJ95shmsiBxbCgPd3qIC1eZsbfif5MaH7uZYQFGgKt7N2HvnDf1a0fxGJ64Snk1yIogzBzsnQ_tcfR8fsDrjLsDy6v5MTE7ZHgO9MgRTs_CVqhEfqezvgfIYssYE5mPjm2vW/s400/DSC04394.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We tried a whole bunch of stuff, including burrata, empanadas (like a Spanish curry puff), ham and cod croquettes, gelato. Very happy campers, we are.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcRIYQKDYsRmzENhouvvJ6vSpPAkVyyP0l6Rb_A0rOOab1RksiYeYFGRKqCvz0LSUS3Z4DAtPuvOLN_nsfN1C1KXDclyRiC7OgplN2Bya4mgCSueRUVd_eq6hke7OnZCMWtfbD7QTQhQu9/s1600/DSC04375.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcRIYQKDYsRmzENhouvvJ6vSpPAkVyyP0l6Rb_A0rOOab1RksiYeYFGRKqCvz0LSUS3Z4DAtPuvOLN_nsfN1C1KXDclyRiC7OgplN2Bya4mgCSueRUVd_eq6hke7OnZCMWtfbD7QTQhQu9/s400/DSC04375.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm-drGjHuMQQ0tO9iIzyh7KZd91sLDyWzOgBLC5MW4YyIX3LhdSLxO1mnCZVswVURQFVY1sXblOQ37kyY0ufh1e4DIOdWSucpLrIb9-EXHtzRU5yKSuHziyUyKaqc0xqLCv3Vf3ekjoLY/s1600/DSC04378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGm-drGjHuMQQ0tO9iIzyh7KZd91sLDyWzOgBLC5MW4YyIX3LhdSLxO1mnCZVswVURQFVY1sXblOQ37kyY0ufh1e4DIOdWSucpLrIb9-EXHtzRU5yKSuHziyUyKaqc0xqLCv3Vf3ekjoLY/s400/DSC04378.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpsVwmONX5RFUDcnR59Uklk8YpLuKHug7CygRIcNn5Rrr0cRXVe3QQS4hMUJa_1LdJjB0A8G6mmrTZBL3hyz1aIAayKsPUJGlF6-qQRmIJ6YWVtEqvJeO38dnTU-0Fif6NCxPuQo9B4NY/s1600/DSC04398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpsVwmONX5RFUDcnR59Uklk8YpLuKHug7CygRIcNn5Rrr0cRXVe3QQS4hMUJa_1LdJjB0A8G6mmrTZBL3hyz1aIAayKsPUJGlF6-qQRmIJ6YWVtEqvJeO38dnTU-0Fif6NCxPuQo9B4NY/s400/DSC04398.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-57201769468529654722018-12-25T16:15:00.000+08:002018-12-25T18:04:36.773+08:00Fried chicken and polar bears at Osu<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 5 (Sat, 22 December 2018)</span><br />
<br />
After last night's adventure, we planned to have a leisurely day by going to the <a href="http://inbound.nagoya-osu.com/en/" target="_blank">Osu area</a>. This is a market area of sorts, similar to Nishiki Market in Kyoto. Various vendors sell food, clothes and other knick knacks in little shops that line the alleys. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TJgFaY15_pFnfZtAiySlkcoTOLwdixB_9N2J4rBJv2C4SUW5MxPnaHPQ7lIo3ni0SBQdDUaiB3cP_poI9WgWBnM_F2j9KX22JwJiVWYQBq1LJeTehPyGZABEANoOMw9I11-XqfVb8Ivy/s1600/DSC03657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-TJgFaY15_pFnfZtAiySlkcoTOLwdixB_9N2J4rBJv2C4SUW5MxPnaHPQ7lIo3ni0SBQdDUaiB3cP_poI9WgWBnM_F2j9KX22JwJiVWYQBq1LJeTehPyGZABEANoOMw9I11-XqfVb8Ivy/s400/DSC03657.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
The first thing we did was zoom in on Gaburichicken. Why is this shop so special? It sells karaage or Japanese fried chicken, and has won the Best Fried Chicken gold medal six years in a row. Who organises this competition and how do they decide on the winning entry? We have absolutely no idea. It's just the kitschy kind of trivia that appeals to us. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkm5LkE4jvra_APX-2myJ25j_-sQu7zkVd681eZ553jDGOlC-MoD-RNCMPwU2IpcMQk0uKUhlMB-Yc7SAWuhuGR46J230BDmSJQAzyn-ZfL7cTE6WOC8nM7gBsXgd_IJEQgfM0aE-Ndy1w/s1600/DSC03683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkm5LkE4jvra_APX-2myJ25j_-sQu7zkVd681eZ553jDGOlC-MoD-RNCMPwU2IpcMQk0uKUhlMB-Yc7SAWuhuGR46J230BDmSJQAzyn-ZfL7cTE6WOC8nM7gBsXgd_IJEQgfM0aE-Ndy1w/s400/DSC03683.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In case you want to know how to find it, it's right next to the giant waving cat. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuZlqAzRWmBkqrLzWupinNbDMMDxaU8EtRbqR-jYNCPZGzbkz1F5-Y0xXFxJ6DO53oJbqF2S2iIGFBLHv0Z3pYyi9I3mxAl6-Jbh9XqQrEO7bEP1uYOb8-m5ll-aNojTdwVdzWlB9d-g5/s1600/DSC03668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIuZlqAzRWmBkqrLzWupinNbDMMDxaU8EtRbqR-jYNCPZGzbkz1F5-Y0xXFxJ6DO53oJbqF2S2iIGFBLHv0Z3pYyi9I3mxAl6-Jbh9XqQrEO7bEP1uYOb8-m5ll-aNojTdwVdzWlB9d-g5/s400/DSC03668.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
You can eat at the restaurant but if you take the fried chicken to go, it comes in a cup. There are six varieties - one plain and the others with different sauces. We ordered one plain and one with tartar sauce. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrDalrRC68ED_oxvMLefkwthlDB5MNn9frZMfbBSU4oD4b5WipC_G3hDjnH-zupqXIC8uzsgT-MpJhk2xeUOp0GK0c3ljXQrLZGoz7K9oJfwFc5zqWh12ueqVqSyArOm7Xulio3-pM8m0/s1600/DSC03724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrDalrRC68ED_oxvMLefkwthlDB5MNn9frZMfbBSU4oD4b5WipC_G3hDjnH-zupqXIC8uzsgT-MpJhk2xeUOp0GK0c3ljXQrLZGoz7K9oJfwFc5zqWh12ueqVqSyArOm7Xulio3-pM8m0/s400/DSC03724.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
It was very good. I mean, it's hard to go wrong with fried chicken, but we find Japanese karaage especially delicious, with its crispy skin and juicy thigh chunks. Andre loves Japanese tartar sauce - it's made with egg pieces and goes with everything, not just fish. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1HsAzuFjTQ__TscbxDj9oWOSoqx0gBGz8qogXv7H0lse4wZO4sGNldHEScfhT_m3eWkmxCN4GM3KP3BR1aGogpQ1_HISwr935b-BIb4rchs8c_rxk1QIm5FpLzmkT3D0mHvRc-2Yr-xh/s1600/DSC03733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL1HsAzuFjTQ__TscbxDj9oWOSoqx0gBGz8qogXv7H0lse4wZO4sGNldHEScfhT_m3eWkmxCN4GM3KP3BR1aGogpQ1_HISwr935b-BIb4rchs8c_rxk1QIm5FpLzmkT3D0mHvRc-2Yr-xh/s400/DSC03733.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Next item on our food scavenger hunt was tenmusu. This is a speciality of Nagoya and is a piece of prawn tempura wrapped in a rice ball. Tenmusu is a snack food and can be found in many takeaway stalls at train stations, but the best one is supposedly at a shop called Senju, found in the Osu area. Andre did most of the food research for this trip, and he led us to the restaurant. Which turned out to be great because there's no way we would have found it if he didn't know what the front of the restaurant looked like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CITvVG2uss_LaI-5k_h6J1Bb626jGRxpJZYvNaqkUy-j62leURosuVDr1zKWI6Dhss_xVoM2WrGiAnWY1qS6PqJE1QS7cc6_tytD3RbXFHzb8VxQcNScb8lCpA2FDOOXBz5EijkkIS8Y/s1600/DSC03692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1CITvVG2uss_LaI-5k_h6J1Bb626jGRxpJZYvNaqkUy-j62leURosuVDr1zKWI6Dhss_xVoM2WrGiAnWY1qS6PqJE1QS7cc6_tytD3RbXFHzb8VxQcNScb8lCpA2FDOOXBz5EijkkIS8Y/s400/DSC03692.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's tucked away in a nondescript row of buildings, and there are not English signs or pictures outside. Inside, a little old lady handles the orders while three others prepare the tenmusu in the kitchen. That's all they sell. As we sat and waited for our order to be served, locals popped in to take away boxes of tenmusu. We're obviously the oddities here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcL1NJIljrXG4yDG3ap_Bnigi5P2S2ufddTmJCwplM6KbZJ2DlBQwkGdZTt9fgZhHSk4dKbGA4QdflSiAZehw28icxw82SlWQqYjncY53gG4CfgSmL7WUBo03FCWanAAJCjzZNgfgWBq8/s1600/DSC03695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOcL1NJIljrXG4yDG3ap_Bnigi5P2S2ufddTmJCwplM6KbZJ2DlBQwkGdZTt9fgZhHSk4dKbGA4QdflSiAZehw28icxw82SlWQqYjncY53gG4CfgSmL7WUBo03FCWanAAJCjzZNgfgWBq8/s400/DSC03695.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A perfectly fried piece of prawn tempura, wrapped in rice and seaweed, served with hot green tea.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhnI3GdY9rqucpl9IrhyMCt1sCv3rfF0tMJ_uDDK84OeNYfRXeJcWSPVtzzo228n4-PAwRp77fukIge4XyrDw4KOEdqejoMTuoW48z04fw643-GFxug4aFkK1hCbFrDGqccD8bC6Isavy/s1600/DSC03710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhnI3GdY9rqucpl9IrhyMCt1sCv3rfF0tMJ_uDDK84OeNYfRXeJcWSPVtzzo228n4-PAwRp77fukIge4XyrDw4KOEdqejoMTuoW48z04fw643-GFxug4aFkK1hCbFrDGqccD8bC6Isavy/s320/DSC03710.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKm2SAyAmv_3mihSh6dZBjDa67jXj0vxp5_6Lh0NtSj8SCJ-idH8sfy240LS-5sMYJU8YXbg3hs5sXytZa0XKy2BbIpWLEE3TwFs9uNpygpRjDgxLAXwXD3qvDn4Yyfv9Wri-hcGY5FsF/s1600/DSC03703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKm2SAyAmv_3mihSh6dZBjDa67jXj0vxp5_6Lh0NtSj8SCJ-idH8sfy240LS-5sMYJU8YXbg3hs5sXytZa0XKy2BbIpWLEE3TwFs9uNpygpRjDgxLAXwXD3qvDn4Yyfv9Wri-hcGY5FsF/s400/DSC03703.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next snack: one of our favourite Japanese desserts - red bean fish! We had some a couple of days ago at the Toyota Museum train station, but it wasn't very good. So we were delighted when we spotted this shop, which is the same one that we enjoyed tremendously in Osaka.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPcmkItPHvEhbAtMSb7OoRePUB3jgCjj82vXO9m1xWVOI72A5y0HpsB4BC4MiDB67lfiwB-j4DKSEN4mPajWbaVimKy5Du4-bLn-wcnPvFbhQmw-Hm-hlFTC1qa7Qou3eXB6aWycWU84m/s1600/DSC03754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPcmkItPHvEhbAtMSb7OoRePUB3jgCjj82vXO9m1xWVOI72A5y0HpsB4BC4MiDB67lfiwB-j4DKSEN4mPajWbaVimKy5Du4-bLn-wcnPvFbhQmw-Hm-hlFTC1qa7Qou3eXB6aWycWU84m/s400/DSC03754.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The batter is light and the red bean filling has a perfect consistency. Yumz.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyD_YQA_fEh7FP3FaBs1qg2cobfHFI8IFqMAfIQGZNyXZxaXnI06LfT8GiTYG2i1vNfEZbJXElv4uYnK0CtCpcNV6GsbD-GxaF4qW590wfi_aoFQVPllRaX4B8NSti1x-YQTWE0x1To4x/s1600/DSC03762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyD_YQA_fEh7FP3FaBs1qg2cobfHFI8IFqMAfIQGZNyXZxaXnI06LfT8GiTYG2i1vNfEZbJXElv4uYnK0CtCpcNV6GsbD-GxaF4qW590wfi_aoFQVPllRaX4B8NSti1x-YQTWE0x1To4x/s400/DSC03762.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
More Nagoya food - some form of mochi with soya sauce brushed over it. The seller perked up when he heard we were Singaporeans, as he had visited Singapore on his honeymoon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicy-WzeUSCoq5LoqBHkVBJy51l4_GPIveD41431NBIytpCjGDEo2HMKozZ97xzMlrxo81fNMXQR_-7LaFBO7iaYYgPks01ShKgAI_GuYcOHbjnvrQQfcw-rKalBkweSLh1z4Xx5FB7Q1PB/s400/DSC03792.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<br />
A little Osu church in the midst of the shops.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJo1BwOVYlhVLjaqOsWS69lpVBVaMZsKzvzqTDgWIFhN0_Wqb1QT5fMbF26efXq1_nhsLlIdM_U7gL80WW-9tb3PPkb2GjX7zKrO77jN94iLZn-fmozrupPueeRwa0lUHSI1iIs111C_50/s1600/DSC03780.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJo1BwOVYlhVLjaqOsWS69lpVBVaMZsKzvzqTDgWIFhN0_Wqb1QT5fMbF26efXq1_nhsLlIdM_U7gL80WW-9tb3PPkb2GjX7zKrO77jN94iLZn-fmozrupPueeRwa0lUHSI1iIs111C_50/s320/DSC03780.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
And one of the main attractions at Osu - Osu temple.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvy7UFbl5usjj7TaSnYpSgFWWLf5ISOkt6_0zxMQaJNje3GaQtY2kiqNPq5c1TnLtz85ZCKvLccr9C01JBz-Z6qsdcH-lN9y5vEp8DRT0UcbtiZNHSafwRvQNm4SRwm-jBUvUoirX_T-b-/s1600/DSC03802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvy7UFbl5usjj7TaSnYpSgFWWLf5ISOkt6_0zxMQaJNje3GaQtY2kiqNPq5c1TnLtz85ZCKvLccr9C01JBz-Z6qsdcH-lN9y5vEp8DRT0UcbtiZNHSafwRvQNm4SRwm-jBUvUoirX_T-b-/s400/DSC03802.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67_8Bj8Ajjsx6Chk3FjCuUmjucnhvF0sQVdEdKIL8CiRGSmKOBqO2-iflg3Kzf84vmftXowSrJ1kbTDzuDk-P4EvXzsCUTwjK-bIKEvEbJm1qP3RoayFxDu3TrUouIzWJ3RuJLGg7o7DY/s1600/DSC03839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67_8Bj8Ajjsx6Chk3FjCuUmjucnhvF0sQVdEdKIL8CiRGSmKOBqO2-iflg3Kzf84vmftXowSrJ1kbTDzuDk-P4EvXzsCUTwjK-bIKEvEbJm1qP3RoayFxDu3TrUouIzWJ3RuJLGg7o7DY/s400/DSC03839.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Where we spotted an unlikely character. That's right, your eyes deceive you not - it's a polar bear, looking at his phone, no less.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0jKr6FzSAIeYyX3rC2J79FwyrlW4IyVs53SS6tLG_mRkFRyJ45gD8vPAUNFIxt2BwW24ruYuMmapszQp40r1k1ZJRfrJuaNqpRTc5Gh0Zi1OkmYRx0HDT-M2IM2KDKJNKFQbZM42pIfT/s1600/DSC03832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0jKr6FzSAIeYyX3rC2J79FwyrlW4IyVs53SS6tLG_mRkFRyJ45gD8vPAUNFIxt2BwW24ruYuMmapszQp40r1k1ZJRfrJuaNqpRTc5Gh0Zi1OkmYRx0HDT-M2IM2KDKJNKFQbZM42pIfT/s400/DSC03832.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Andre couldn't resist and approached it for a selfie.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlsCg3j3ep9lS1X_cOmcvHpMrHCf-NMyyBzmzejtIna0MOMTdKRuufGwOloKwQh3NzKYuwnUS5AEdQxzEm2FDq59m_schZzu5YfZ3cl1vZqDpyQCIipo4OBp89l5YIBzCrzY-94cuHp-dN/s1600/DSC03856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlsCg3j3ep9lS1X_cOmcvHpMrHCf-NMyyBzmzejtIna0MOMTdKRuufGwOloKwQh3NzKYuwnUS5AEdQxzEm2FDq59m_schZzu5YfZ3cl1vZqDpyQCIipo4OBp89l5YIBzCrzY-94cuHp-dN/s400/DSC03856.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
It even tipped its hat to Andre after.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGS4uUn8SIofkhFEG4JQXJ499x5WLI81KoC5JcpjRasODMJzbSYkrclCTtNWyK51FTWql3MVO5Lcb4aVuUXj32sSP2y3JsSkYKQxH8Evo_WkjONi10S46_6PZhAO5xSE_fk7Qw6A9GMpA/s1600/DSC03858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGS4uUn8SIofkhFEG4JQXJ499x5WLI81KoC5JcpjRasODMJzbSYkrclCTtNWyK51FTWql3MVO5Lcb4aVuUXj32sSP2y3JsSkYKQxH8Evo_WkjONi10S46_6PZhAO5xSE_fk7Qw6A9GMpA/s400/DSC03858.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A beary polite fellow indeed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqd58VO43ZZVq2w9NAiTk0qxTh0YbbHxNaW_1rTB4x1myXPDsx3HvOqbMdztIptk_334E-LauJ-FfCHYnrwU0fp1Dz2PEDJtfNP2_lgWm_p68awOrnmEFxyUNYX2MRq08GhjavEcQjtK6/s1600/DSC03861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzqd58VO43ZZVq2w9NAiTk0qxTh0YbbHxNaW_1rTB4x1myXPDsx3HvOqbMdztIptk_334E-LauJ-FfCHYnrwU0fp1Dz2PEDJtfNP2_lgWm_p68awOrnmEFxyUNYX2MRq08GhjavEcQjtK6/s400/DSC03861.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-57966077213681021882018-12-23T21:30:00.000+08:002018-12-23T21:39:57.617+08:00Winter Wonderland - Nabana no Sato<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 4 (Fri, 21 December 2018)</span><br />
<br />
On the cards today was Nabana no Sato, a flower garden, to see the winter illumination. From my research, it sounded something like Gardens by the Bay, but specially lit up for winter. Nabana no Sato is part of <a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3313.html" target="_blank">Nagashima Resort</a>, a long strip of land surrounded by rivers and the sea, and which also includes a theme park, onsen and Mitsui Outlet Park.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0i57a6cHxzGD6TMDAM01YORq00fiOgYZYjQ2sPDdhMNSm1J-7KXgDKyzbpL_0eVSzU2o8RBwYYk9z2IfLRgcxeF1cY4X6dPjwmEM6wPD9N4L2MET-_iiO7G7OGB1PFXfJSrDVPpcptzP/s1600/DSC03320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0i57a6cHxzGD6TMDAM01YORq00fiOgYZYjQ2sPDdhMNSm1J-7KXgDKyzbpL_0eVSzU2o8RBwYYk9z2IfLRgcxeF1cY4X6dPjwmEM6wPD9N4L2MET-_iiO7G7OGB1PFXfJSrDVPpcptzP/s200/DSC03320.JPG" width="132" /></a></div>
But first, lunch! We went to <a href="https://gurunavi.com/en/n020229/rst/?__ngt__=TT0efeac7c9009ac1e4ae071vcxgkm_F3OP6IOy2YserWz" target="_blank">Tetsuemon</a> at Nagoya station to try yet another Nagoya speciality - Cochin chicken. Most people would be familiar with oyakudon, which is a rice bowl with chicken pieces, topped with egg. Interestingly, "oyakudon" means parent and child rice bowl, giving new meaning to the puzzle: which came first, the chicken or the egg?<br />
<br />
Tetsuemon serves all types of chicken dishes. We ordered two oyakudon with the Cochin chicken which also came with fried chicken wings, one regular oyakudon (just to see what the difference was) and one karaage (fried chicken). All the sets came with a chicken meatball soup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0rXa70GvhGH4rO_SVRUhxAngr6DEpUJLs_tdwZ0eFYth8-ahMUes_9A2I5rjZqcf4Y9UBO1EBnsuT-nkV65V0XhN6jZe9nzoXviyUnqpx15DGG0rPQ3tENa-r-Moc2tgCOzXbwQ_7dep/s1600/DSC03307+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0rXa70GvhGH4rO_SVRUhxAngr6DEpUJLs_tdwZ0eFYth8-ahMUes_9A2I5rjZqcf4Y9UBO1EBnsuT-nkV65V0XhN6jZe9nzoXviyUnqpx15DGG0rPQ3tENa-r-Moc2tgCOzXbwQ_7dep/s400/DSC03307+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This was the oyakudon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRQReqX13mQu4JrKA0V4bOZd5xxxdTNNECFegkZjnaW5yKFYwxiO4Zc7wF0mBoigN7Q52G9ybilT_Y4FvlqvWVI0Kr5HbV4lZcXu7ahuAyJ-MouJ7ZcS1UqWtOktCeNOi4OVXGDQuvEaS/s1600/DSC03302+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFRQReqX13mQu4JrKA0V4bOZd5xxxdTNNECFegkZjnaW5yKFYwxiO4Zc7wF0mBoigN7Q52G9ybilT_Y4FvlqvWVI0Kr5HbV4lZcXu7ahuAyJ-MouJ7ZcS1UqWtOktCeNOi4OVXGDQuvEaS/s400/DSC03302+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our verdict? Honestly, our Philistine palates couldn't make out the difference between the Cochin and regular chicken. What wowed me was not the chicken but the egg. It's not overly runny but still slightly wobbly. A layer of sunny, creamy goodness. Andre loved the karaage, especially the tartar sauce that accompanied it.<br />
<br />
To get to Nabana no Sato, you need to first get to Nagashima onsen. Directions online were quite elusive and the official sites contained mostly Japanese instructions. As far as we know, there are two ways to get to Nagashima onsen - either via a straight bus from Meitetsu Bus Station or via train to Kuwana station, and then a bus ride to the onsen. We chose the latter because Kenneth and Lesley-Anne are not keen on long bus rides.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fMbTycTOjJTprqWm5jsZpyL3-CsbfnFFlV7tyUgO19C_UjILidYOyB8LrzpWICx3oaMfElh4nDoRvHucz8TYQoFFdtCJ16gdJpHmRWPSC_1G8PEFqIhOk1xZz4l-vK_qXWRlc5K-yVsf/s1600/DSC03322+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fMbTycTOjJTprqWm5jsZpyL3-CsbfnFFlV7tyUgO19C_UjILidYOyB8LrzpWICx3oaMfElh4nDoRvHucz8TYQoFFdtCJ16gdJpHmRWPSC_1G8PEFqIhOk1xZz4l-vK_qXWRlc5K-yVsf/s400/DSC03322+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JR line from Nagoya station to Kuwana station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2ICcDt_pWNPkA7UwHU7Bv8D2Z4wl9gdwJh5Lpok_vZVM1VmJMrdoDPGlpsh1De3Jsw1RhkjBlRriQVhxnsxpnBgLVFLO2zxpW9iKF4LpVRJjEvMCBGDFaLpeGL9XJa3nnc3yIIkB5RVb/s1600/20181221_141308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2ICcDt_pWNPkA7UwHU7Bv8D2Z4wl9gdwJh5Lpok_vZVM1VmJMrdoDPGlpsh1De3Jsw1RhkjBlRriQVhxnsxpnBgLVFLO2zxpW9iKF4LpVRJjEvMCBGDFaLpeGL9XJa3nnc3yIIkB5RVb/s200/20181221_141308.jpg" width="112" /></a>The Kuwana bus station is small and local, and it wasn't very clear where we were supposed to go, until we asked the station master. We finally sorted it out and got on the right bus to Nagashima Onsen. Given the complexity of the train-bus journey, I highly recommend you take the straight bus route instead. We opted to take the bus back (there's a direct one from Nabana no Sato all the way to Nagoya station) and it's much easier.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://bestlivingjapan.com/nabana-no-sato/" target="_blank">Nabana no Sato</a> is known for their winter night illumination. I'd seen pictures online and it has great reviews. When we entered the garden, it was still daylight and one of the first scenes that greeted us was this gorgeous autumn foliage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJu7a3KLnZU_JCxHcbrbyQo5VJudTtM2uIisXDxQshM6NhzSH8CS5IFyFTj8eWTbG1B9RFKKBlKQ2omLIe8YTSsNjol80c8gVfqgDIzF_wNRyp1AD7W9ZDstBbQEuMQe9CYxtXrt7jp_C7/s1600/DSC03349+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJu7a3KLnZU_JCxHcbrbyQo5VJudTtM2uIisXDxQshM6NhzSH8CS5IFyFTj8eWTbG1B9RFKKBlKQ2omLIe8YTSsNjol80c8gVfqgDIzF_wNRyp1AD7W9ZDstBbQEuMQe9CYxtXrt7jp_C7/s400/DSC03349+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EDRZs45G3w8QiEogROehn9vdsTUzxTuGdfSZCpq1dUG-rYCmKaSrcdTc0Je_AeAKVfroChOUgN0oSZcgYhymft0H7RHYUy0748Tv6kbZ_9wYbhzjudytCR9b8l45Tpc0HrIbzDlylZCK/s1600/DSC03371+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="1600" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EDRZs45G3w8QiEogROehn9vdsTUzxTuGdfSZCpq1dUG-rYCmKaSrcdTc0Je_AeAKVfroChOUgN0oSZcgYhymft0H7RHYUy0748Tv6kbZ_9wYbhzjudytCR9b8l45Tpc0HrIbzDlylZCK/s400/DSC03371+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRd-IF_9m2TdhyeBDk_5GwfprjmY7FDcij219sWfkHisc_g3Lk9Qk2jN6j-KnT1MYtAtD_ec6n8hGS0t9_dccVIuUeOq-alymWIMIDSv4T0d9C9g5zuzRfdpIHaxuzxpC4zOLuKxHRwFW/s1600/DSC03379+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRd-IF_9m2TdhyeBDk_5GwfprjmY7FDcij219sWfkHisc_g3Lk9Qk2jN6j-KnT1MYtAtD_ec6n8hGS0t9_dccVIuUeOq-alymWIMIDSv4T0d9C9g5zuzRfdpIHaxuzxpC4zOLuKxHRwFW/s400/DSC03379+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There's also a mirror lake which doubled the magic of the scene.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYcasLz9PYyZs50r4Xw96UmIBo6w3iADAYbzT7dc_xykYm2Es8VhwSBO3i-lCwNiEMZUgDhIH4RIj7EkxcYQhVEg8UbFP_ZwqvJA3xVVxEzM1tOLEx8p_s_5yngHoZycUHsJ440IcUnYK3/s1600/DSC03389+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYcasLz9PYyZs50r4Xw96UmIBo6w3iADAYbzT7dc_xykYm2Es8VhwSBO3i-lCwNiEMZUgDhIH4RIj7EkxcYQhVEg8UbFP_ZwqvJA3xVVxEzM1tOLEx8p_s_5yngHoZycUHsJ440IcUnYK3/s400/DSC03389+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There's a revolving platform which you can ride to have a bird's eye view of the entire gardens. It looked a little like an odd spaceship. You can't see it in the pic but there's a Mount Fuji structure on top of it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKg5Nf-VKWjrNv-fJOkZMB1sr0V58TzvNayJMLMdCpQUYRgKoqUpD12SZNqUaU4S7FtisQBVECPggMHTPwrrBcb18uMOKFOWp3C2zNV7PWdg7Lc1tGwLcGRewjEoILfZ9s-wiJUZzcx3bD/s1600/DSC03408+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKg5Nf-VKWjrNv-fJOkZMB1sr0V58TzvNayJMLMdCpQUYRgKoqUpD12SZNqUaU4S7FtisQBVECPggMHTPwrrBcb18uMOKFOWp3C2zNV7PWdg7Lc1tGwLcGRewjEoILfZ9s-wiJUZzcx3bD/s400/DSC03408+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The light up was at 5pm, since sunset in winter is 4.45pm. We followed a route which led us to one of the main attractions - a fully lit 100-metre long tunnel, literally called "Brilliant Walk". It's hard to describe and photographs don't do it justice. Imagine being surrounded by twinkling fairy lights all about you, with gentle Christmas music serenading you as you stroll along in fresh, brisk air.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DXaBT-7gUfvKfU_DnZRsx_NKpK5KKgvm4GinAcjF3Fz4LpCZTFNrHs9g1ykPz7wNkJeYDjTFcvcpgkEL2zAm8TPUpJo0yKM0rntY34KTpySQtd7D_AL71-PtMylao4Tl0c47GGxXvi30/s1600/DSC03442+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DXaBT-7gUfvKfU_DnZRsx_NKpK5KKgvm4GinAcjF3Fz4LpCZTFNrHs9g1ykPz7wNkJeYDjTFcvcpgkEL2zAm8TPUpJo0yKM0rntY34KTpySQtd7D_AL71-PtMylao4Tl0c47GGxXvi30/s400/DSC03442+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XXSdQTCIdCFVgzcfbOsZd_XMZ5jsv4McOBcHs3_B5nhCCF9_SzztrP1cjTI6vgN3B0jqe447xUQYoOx0MhFiwGzCcEoNknP1k8lptVxTS4bSPhDh4cSRdO0PWgKAEfQ5ACscCorzqRrG/s1600/DSC03438+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XXSdQTCIdCFVgzcfbOsZd_XMZ5jsv4McOBcHs3_B5nhCCF9_SzztrP1cjTI6vgN3B0jqe447xUQYoOx0MhFiwGzCcEoNknP1k8lptVxTS4bSPhDh4cSRdO0PWgKAEfQ5ACscCorzqRrG/s400/DSC03438+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEcE9iGBAQw7Oa38hU3zMdrFnTEpdshxAQzkaFEup-zvP3DNV9qN143h39dTVOXfTtPt2wZ7wWZnFWyL8aSkJnG7-izr7pyAO4wEHPDB2AGbCe_6xm2NjZX3-cyXiJkjdhsNcWl7jzPtv/s1600/DSC03450+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrEcE9iGBAQw7Oa38hU3zMdrFnTEpdshxAQzkaFEup-zvP3DNV9qN143h39dTVOXfTtPt2wZ7wWZnFWyL8aSkJnG7-izr7pyAO4wEHPDB2AGbCe_6xm2NjZX3-cyXiJkjdhsNcWl7jzPtv/s400/DSC03450+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbouSZ-Wt2s0_ZrzGe94gVkBaPqpHSt-l8f1IJbuQ-YB_YURTQSJzBbxMEeycGsCslR9smT1mihuwES9qFoSjPQGu_qvi3lj_EaJotKgllocoykpNmEMdIXsXixQHOAIgGKYKHXu70TQID/s1600/DSC03456+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbouSZ-Wt2s0_ZrzGe94gVkBaPqpHSt-l8f1IJbuQ-YB_YURTQSJzBbxMEeycGsCslR9smT1mihuwES9qFoSjPQGu_qvi3lj_EaJotKgllocoykpNmEMdIXsXixQHOAIgGKYKHXu70TQID/s400/DSC03456+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Greeting us at the end of the walk was an open field and a large screen where a light shown was being screened.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjCAX9-xSyzD9dpvGT_qKeXE6uqt23BszhaOz-2eTkwXQ6IKxt8KqorOGtZYpKt93vWvhIzPoU31tLolI6URiGi5ytsNbN5OBynKpVMCToz14qwRJS0ORE2XM7KoLDO2ds4aPixBpytwa/s1600/DSC03464+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjCAX9-xSyzD9dpvGT_qKeXE6uqt23BszhaOz-2eTkwXQ6IKxt8KqorOGtZYpKt93vWvhIzPoU31tLolI6URiGi5ytsNbN5OBynKpVMCToz14qwRJS0ORE2XM7KoLDO2ds4aPixBpytwa/s400/DSC03464+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then came another lit tunnel, this one in lavender. It was simply surreal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-mSr1UWuQ5KWnrTjVpuaCIZRZ0kXf_Jtq6waXxH16gCdYKN34uuMOIK9MyFl6ZcMnRAgxFuVx0Y2qiGKwgZE6o-iamEUsj6mr3V2yz6HFvSU3FPUvkEfPQGRDQsgT75EAqkOl2kKEXef/s1600/DSC03474+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-mSr1UWuQ5KWnrTjVpuaCIZRZ0kXf_Jtq6waXxH16gCdYKN34uuMOIK9MyFl6ZcMnRAgxFuVx0Y2qiGKwgZE6o-iamEUsj6mr3V2yz6HFvSU3FPUvkEfPQGRDQsgT75EAqkOl2kKEXef/s400/DSC03474+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQegZedoUYo2q-sFLAKmvjQkgsFCiDLyWW461wSzxX6dGWBz59KIDk2KIulEhxWbn9y89oFVtL-3EJQxp0Yq2U8TNQtzJkJzJ9sB8QKP5fTtJYP7nFgnClVFs8FjbMpXSXXTSduWZ8kdDy/s1600/DSC03483+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQegZedoUYo2q-sFLAKmvjQkgsFCiDLyWW461wSzxX6dGWBz59KIDk2KIulEhxWbn9y89oFVtL-3EJQxp0Yq2U8TNQtzJkJzJ9sB8QKP5fTtJYP7nFgnClVFs8FjbMpXSXXTSduWZ8kdDy/s400/DSC03483+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Entry to Nabana no Sato is Y2,300 each, which includes a Y1,000 coupon that can be used for souvenirs or meals. We thought we would have to settle for an overpriced and tasteless dinner, typical of theme parks, until we came across a Japanese restaurant partially hidden within the gardens. Despite its posh exterior, its meals were reasonably priced - about Y2,000 for each set. We had sashimi, clams, eel...and they were all fantastic. We were four very happy campers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNT8v8Xtm3i0qjhYapzzuaIpxZVnNSCYn7JPGKxv9QHWp4NywE_MDn4PMHb-ZgfCHpFy_NusEwUFFf1GmycRPVtNA4dTLZFJtIL0UMHk9RBCZ-CyYOEo99XC4Vp7LJoVzQVx54F4rgLXHL/s1600/DSC03519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNT8v8Xtm3i0qjhYapzzuaIpxZVnNSCYn7JPGKxv9QHWp4NywE_MDn4PMHb-ZgfCHpFy_NusEwUFFf1GmycRPVtNA4dTLZFJtIL0UMHk9RBCZ-CyYOEo99XC4Vp7LJoVzQVx54F4rgLXHL/s400/DSC03519.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9F7eBdJF3UnFVmPrfcdxRu-ArYHE_cWE85Uuajwp3JlNGQO0vO9rYQZ8yEoemf7OMbKCO4lFLDzNVSBmk1ZqpUo8jKXkdlzhqc0jycIKIuodhY5pphEkt_AWmgHAbWQj-gj7v5cPBO_j8/s1600/DSC03502.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9F7eBdJF3UnFVmPrfcdxRu-ArYHE_cWE85Uuajwp3JlNGQO0vO9rYQZ8yEoemf7OMbKCO4lFLDzNVSBmk1ZqpUo8jKXkdlzhqc0jycIKIuodhY5pphEkt_AWmgHAbWQj-gj7v5cPBO_j8/s400/DSC03502.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHj9fpHej2FDMeEJVegtsdHIanMISaqaUG5jyfIAItAEHZiN8vuEVmb9C9RaaA7SV_ZIsvjzQl8tFII3TKhZNL8bSis13KG52DJmaYuW9J8NjZAk6jFahvGoCJxgcNzwvAq1HDiFyvPmEp/s1600/DSC03513+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHj9fpHej2FDMeEJVegtsdHIanMISaqaUG5jyfIAItAEHZiN8vuEVmb9C9RaaA7SV_ZIsvjzQl8tFII3TKhZNL8bSis13KG52DJmaYuW9J8NjZAk6jFahvGoCJxgcNzwvAq1HDiFyvPmEp/s400/DSC03513+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
When we had finished dinner, it was completely dark outside. Then the real magic happened. Entire rows of trees along the bank were illuminated so their fiery shades blazed against the backdrop of a black night, with perfect reflections in the still waters. It was an ethereal sight. I could have sat and stared at it all night. Again, photos don't do it justice.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qdJngsi7hHTfp19WCQYOb2LX6hgZEZ6MhxAUxigI0RfpQfFT-lTnreexMsvWCP9fvXnOUoFb5ZQCnlFhfoJBH9OqN7wWGWVM4MH4A8BRpN_gSoIJWMbfWvTjLrb0zxNy1TIP7JO3wIp2/s1600/DSC03541+ed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8qdJngsi7hHTfp19WCQYOb2LX6hgZEZ6MhxAUxigI0RfpQfFT-lTnreexMsvWCP9fvXnOUoFb5ZQCnlFhfoJBH9OqN7wWGWVM4MH4A8BRpN_gSoIJWMbfWvTjLrb0zxNy1TIP7JO3wIp2/s400/DSC03541+ed2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3mniJMtwUEsIxn966aZf2rDFixEQ7k2rJdO7yZUZZGa85wnRTqMsKo3YfRDdgl9fcxJMlTcDafbp5lJcWBdWLpGVUl2t6wUsr4lWaE1RMXrdAU6zOC8_4S1aYBlaXCvE14JQ8Ftfcw5g/s1600/DSC03566+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb3mniJMtwUEsIxn966aZf2rDFixEQ7k2rJdO7yZUZZGa85wnRTqMsKo3YfRDdgl9fcxJMlTcDafbp5lJcWBdWLpGVUl2t6wUsr4lWaE1RMXrdAU6zOC8_4S1aYBlaXCvE14JQ8Ftfcw5g/s400/DSC03566+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiKjKNEMXKYlEdLsUDAarHgLiuxezmnAI-g4_8qudfTQh1ARfLLKeOjJw_M5MB4TLTLtqWi0HCvTsCXsfej6BiMXOE5RfqSrGYp0XSjplr5vYeXXf-0p3niEDrMEgd1mXELJoqjpgqmUm/s1600/DSC03583+ed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiKjKNEMXKYlEdLsUDAarHgLiuxezmnAI-g4_8qudfTQh1ARfLLKeOjJw_M5MB4TLTLtqWi0HCvTsCXsfej6BiMXOE5RfqSrGYp0XSjplr5vYeXXf-0p3niEDrMEgd1mXELJoqjpgqmUm/s400/DSC03583+ed2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The entire park was lit up, with changing colours dancing to music.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIIKiyJwJ8qJJrtcSCmIc7n59AZBDHpPQL_rcQ6Uo___pVBt_OczXGhEMihVKi8JpSyrhPL8hCsLMVnmgkOrLE1TfCYYZDAgL-k2m9d3bhu1jknwQ2ULn9-Gqelg8UBDMStx7m5QLCZic/s1600/DSC03573+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIIKiyJwJ8qJJrtcSCmIc7n59AZBDHpPQL_rcQ6Uo___pVBt_OczXGhEMihVKi8JpSyrhPL8hCsLMVnmgkOrLE1TfCYYZDAgL-k2m9d3bhu1jknwQ2ULn9-Gqelg8UBDMStx7m5QLCZic/s400/DSC03573+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6QLWNettn7-dAwrPrqwHr_ej1IE6AXhn6DYy7OH76FHDaF_O3Vnr-s0fXQATJcUxAA8kLkJnq554jsm7YNsQHAMuKHoWYSAV0yeGuzxRI9d3-C7MEXovoYBOiwdg90mWgerB3BaIQ2i1/s1600/DSC03597+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih6QLWNettn7-dAwrPrqwHr_ej1IE6AXhn6DYy7OH76FHDaF_O3Vnr-s0fXQATJcUxAA8kLkJnq554jsm7YNsQHAMuKHoWYSAV0yeGuzxRI9d3-C7MEXovoYBOiwdg90mWgerB3BaIQ2i1/s400/DSC03597+ed.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-uzCw4HV6P0FHYvottWf9Shq2QaGLurSM1mexb2VqcuUAT0nnPpJncFX-E2ca7zErRC7hlQ-0niIQenD6u44lbGZ_Fz4aIR-_S0RtXV5b7SPmqFEXCHwLQRc-udO4Gl7IqFWt5OFGIi7/s1600/DSC03613+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-uzCw4HV6P0FHYvottWf9Shq2QaGLurSM1mexb2VqcuUAT0nnPpJncFX-E2ca7zErRC7hlQ-0niIQenD6u44lbGZ_Fz4aIR-_S0RtXV5b7SPmqFEXCHwLQRc-udO4Gl7IqFWt5OFGIi7/s400/DSC03613+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNs-z94cVQJGojjtd2EDh-SOMNcjsQ8s-YEiZ7sFYt1gELSltfgFEsrAVkS9I20fAHe2twH2er8-zz8jbT3dxqdAv3dOGmsW1_rKUSBeTN5jvjOYqbxdqc-0uc1iEl5-MoXdpbOAcsnnC/s1600/DSC03620+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwNs-z94cVQJGojjtd2EDh-SOMNcjsQ8s-YEiZ7sFYt1gELSltfgFEsrAVkS9I20fAHe2twH2er8-zz8jbT3dxqdAv3dOGmsW1_rKUSBeTN5jvjOYqbxdqc-0uc1iEl5-MoXdpbOAcsnnC/s400/DSC03620+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've seen quite a few Christmas light-ups in my time, but this one beats them all. I wasn't sure what I was expecting to see in Nagoya, but this plus the visit to Shirakawa-go alone made the trip worthwhile.<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-52349076698406499162018-12-22T16:09:00.000+08:002018-12-22T22:25:28.969+08:00Once upon a fairy tale village - Shirakawa-Go<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 3 (Thu, 20 December 2018)</span><br />
<br />
This was one of the highlights of our trip - to visit Takayama and Shirakawa-Go village - a UNESCO world heritage site. Since the latter is quite remote and not easy to get to, we decided it would be less hassle to book a day tour instead of trying to make it there on our own. We chose <a href="https://www.klook.com/activity/2598-shirakawa-takayama-nagoya/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3e785_P73QIVUo6PCh12rwvuEAAYAiAAEgJ1X_D_BwE" target="_blank">the one by Klook</a>.<br />
<br />
The departure point was Meitetsu bus station, which is on the 4th floor of Meitetsu Shopping Centre at Nagoya station.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYTuHI39ID28ptzXfzjQ9hIPGpxvf_O_Cu440VORKgmrnt7XryJhOP353dZgWb9F_XafFweXMPqL-QqUPmQ9nDxxYzrRA2aujKCmIlp5SKq_Xw4GqsHaopFsE5rNafHjihDgZGlpQHiV7/s1600/20181220_070940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYTuHI39ID28ptzXfzjQ9hIPGpxvf_O_Cu440VORKgmrnt7XryJhOP353dZgWb9F_XafFweXMPqL-QqUPmQ9nDxxYzrRA2aujKCmIlp5SKq_Xw4GqsHaopFsE5rNafHjihDgZGlpQHiV7/s400/20181220_070940.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The first stop was Takayama, and the route was took us through the highlands. Due to an accident on the expressway which caused a jam, the driver had to take the local roads, which turned out to be a blessing, as it set us back only by 15 mins but led us through a very picturesque snowscape. Breath-taking.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbO8ttmVxJ0fWcJTe0hjbNjOpfMj6Ws16MRzZTdRjO-ueuft0xbUizSrJ_pSKcMyko7Fd9WBpcEHpYCMYBBO_AXWgsqcAm9ID-6YJVyvoIKG7hl7krazXVl4le6kgugC2LkQK0VIJTG41d/s1600/20181220_092737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbO8ttmVxJ0fWcJTe0hjbNjOpfMj6Ws16MRzZTdRjO-ueuft0xbUizSrJ_pSKcMyko7Fd9WBpcEHpYCMYBBO_AXWgsqcAm9ID-6YJVyvoIKG7hl7krazXVl4le6kgugC2LkQK0VIJTG41d/s400/20181220_092737.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHXppVj6F7fw1L1Mn3dh74vpFeQAybPxDFPB5cghLLCpD5U2MZGO8LiufNhnZ_SCxaLuD_bdbD9TtJFzlswGo_Y9jN8r6uASLu8WIg5D48tdFtmer1lPCXsA6opuDZgZWxOxTVU2XTzb_/s1600/DSC02907+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1600" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgHXppVj6F7fw1L1Mn3dh74vpFeQAybPxDFPB5cghLLCpD5U2MZGO8LiufNhnZ_SCxaLuD_bdbD9TtJFzlswGo_Y9jN8r6uASLu8WIg5D48tdFtmer1lPCXsA6opuDZgZWxOxTVU2XTzb_/s400/DSC02907+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Takayama is an old town in the mountainous Hida region. Land wise, it's larger than Tokyo, but 90% of it consists of mountains and forests. It's very pretty and quaint, reminiscent of Kyoto but less touristy.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUr2e2NezpsaeyiOp9MuoTsSnIEIxF1q1LcILCDA9RnZj8lLuhRN2CFaFO2Dljj5DbiMIqB-MGe88QnBpFfew6HGzF70vB0uhhvhhMyUMiKzAa7GeUU38AT6f4SUU_Fy-tBb5qfh_j8f6F/s1600/DSC02938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUr2e2NezpsaeyiOp9MuoTsSnIEIxF1q1LcILCDA9RnZj8lLuhRN2CFaFO2Dljj5DbiMIqB-MGe88QnBpFfew6HGzF70vB0uhhvhhMyUMiKzAa7GeUU38AT6f4SUU_Fy-tBb5qfh_j8f6F/s400/DSC02938.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK-idevLnUFuA0iRSwsQ-_FH19-FA0Eq2vjjUjlZDpm1Oihz6FyU39wO7CwBmmfDLoZSJC8ZsWFfeYdY7ObjHUd3_Tknb-oP7gAF3rC5pZKyRQ5QFWQmd7oQIrtpuXo_F9AlN-cXjv_lM/s1600/DSC02970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkK-idevLnUFuA0iRSwsQ-_FH19-FA0Eq2vjjUjlZDpm1Oihz6FyU39wO7CwBmmfDLoZSJC8ZsWFfeYdY7ObjHUd3_Tknb-oP7gAF3rC5pZKyRQ5QFWQmd7oQIrtpuXo_F9AlN-cXjv_lM/s400/DSC02970.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwuShdyUXiYenI_TYTmlYI2MyTzWePAGPiRD1IdHzJyzg-5Ko2C-xlK60F14slMcwPfCDEQ34KmarRbxF_EqTuUJUFCg2zuNv2BymftTxcPOXjKUQs8_qKVq9vA7Ak8Gy6k9AxoPfkdATA/s1600/DSC03031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwuShdyUXiYenI_TYTmlYI2MyTzWePAGPiRD1IdHzJyzg-5Ko2C-xlK60F14slMcwPfCDEQ34KmarRbxF_EqTuUJUFCg2zuNv2BymftTxcPOXjKUQs8_qKVq9vA7Ak8Gy6k9AxoPfkdATA/s400/DSC03031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Takayama has a few specialities, such as sake. This is one of the few sake shops and breweries.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9V-hNSyguJIh3p85JvQ3EZeVuUvH_EmXmuREvL-LqU7sdcMD3dMB4cwFTQkTScA_O6BzuwkSxmi12PLwgDC8UiLpPdsQJ8BZ2-pzg-Ly7Ds4VP4ea4vBsK2B8GHOByuB4QWa7n5RPHbNP/s1600/DSC02942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9V-hNSyguJIh3p85JvQ3EZeVuUvH_EmXmuREvL-LqU7sdcMD3dMB4cwFTQkTScA_O6BzuwkSxmi12PLwgDC8UiLpPdsQJ8BZ2-pzg-Ly7Ds4VP4ea4vBsK2B8GHOByuB4QWa7n5RPHbNP/s400/DSC02942.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbJyKTdnd56kN-1etNRDgWas8TZIXBvL3ghY7YOPsp0a2fLZlnEpPitEDlFsVReFgXfT_4z096pdbTqpquM_I6B7j9cDKV6bfDRKRjmsDDNXtohwEbvWEfuWAb66LNFN9bp7ENnMrKG_S/s1600/DSC02946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbJyKTdnd56kN-1etNRDgWas8TZIXBvL3ghY7YOPsp0a2fLZlnEpPitEDlFsVReFgXfT_4z096pdbTqpquM_I6B7j9cDKV6bfDRKRjmsDDNXtohwEbvWEfuWAb66LNFN9bp7ENnMrKG_S/s400/DSC02946.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, he's now old enough to drink.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Honestly, we were not prepared for the cold. We stupidly didn't realise our day trip would take us to where there was SNOW and 2-degree weather, and were dressed for 12-degree Nagoya. This aptly describes us in winter:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSFSUdRz1bb2CC3jCi4Uu-qXVHAky6isM2cJh32ZnGJ3qpkPvlrs9zqcRMWTM7DA7_ujh6Q-WCKPOgU7EcQSbRbeveHQz3A7qX5iF97q4lTzlD6UcERa3tvqY94sZgIbp_0UdjA1MbAkS/s1600/IMG-20181222-WA0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="719" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSFSUdRz1bb2CC3jCi4Uu-qXVHAky6isM2cJh32ZnGJ3qpkPvlrs9zqcRMWTM7DA7_ujh6Q-WCKPOgU7EcQSbRbeveHQz3A7qX5iF97q4lTzlD6UcERa3tvqY94sZgIbp_0UdjA1MbAkS/s400/IMG-20181222-WA0012.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
<br />
So every chance we got, we ducked into a shop to warm our hands.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGZ5tB7yS8wqBu7LYG7cDYxbcDh7NP4dYsASiNVmLluFjxXsCbVZvMs67ENT_EwTZNaiP_yxXjNNtaYCeBXeakQbmPb_YhnfeNVU4ML6JuIxtte6FHbBQdBFB3xNZI3h6w1Ld_WM4Mmln/s1600/IMG_20181220_152513+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGZ5tB7yS8wqBu7LYG7cDYxbcDh7NP4dYsASiNVmLluFjxXsCbVZvMs67ENT_EwTZNaiP_yxXjNNtaYCeBXeakQbmPb_YhnfeNVU4ML6JuIxtte6FHbBQdBFB3xNZI3h6w1Ld_WM4Mmln/s400/IMG_20181220_152513+ed.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
This was a miso shop, with free miso soup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLK1SK7zW68_SJApVn5lfpLVman8iGff6vLvtrMarVQmOY0kiVaomwFsWrqwYJujZ1A8W_Dvun6ZIA1m8Kdm3GBRg0X-HCzE5H4a1oasoyC1yzEdj9o3ug5JWBkoso_6vZalVjv7Tss6QV/s1600/DSC02966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLK1SK7zW68_SJApVn5lfpLVman8iGff6vLvtrMarVQmOY0kiVaomwFsWrqwYJujZ1A8W_Dvun6ZIA1m8Kdm3GBRg0X-HCzE5H4a1oasoyC1yzEdj9o3ug5JWBkoso_6vZalVjv7Tss6QV/s400/DSC02966.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf0zIlLjSk7qqdDH9tAQ70uGLdqWg1jxaTEqRJyEvfDmOBuNaGkwHuApf87WeuscL4-qBv0BFvXLELBSkbq3ql1OMXf8_xY10C_ZrHxY1C-KHGOH48ZEGiuB_li6g-p0nuXViS3Hd6Mg_/s1600/DSC02967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf0zIlLjSk7qqdDH9tAQ70uGLdqWg1jxaTEqRJyEvfDmOBuNaGkwHuApf87WeuscL4-qBv0BFvXLELBSkbq3ql1OMXf8_xY10C_ZrHxY1C-KHGOH48ZEGiuB_li6g-p0nuXViS3Hd6Mg_/s400/DSC02967.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
This shop sells daifuku - chilled confectionery with whole fruit in it. There were all kinds of flavours on display, from strawberry to kiwi and orange.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT1CrJ9mK4-IKTFau-oV8bsyWsJL0O_xUX_MatRRsqSpYF2YRpc60X8FQg-daq22KEHW_gaLlXEHUw8tc9eoYz654a517W-iSUqQPTeWi20CKT7ujP9g45d-q1lB2bqOeMKC7Kg9K09xJ/s1600/DSC02978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT1CrJ9mK4-IKTFau-oV8bsyWsJL0O_xUX_MatRRsqSpYF2YRpc60X8FQg-daq22KEHW_gaLlXEHUw8tc9eoYz654a517W-iSUqQPTeWi20CKT7ujP9g45d-q1lB2bqOeMKC7Kg9K09xJ/s400/DSC02978.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Another speciality - Hida beef sushi. This one attracts long queues...and after tasting it, we knew why. It's pretty darn delicious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBk_JZCIccq9mSC97PjIrW9eKTIihlSRFtx6ndsHR5U6lqNvGxvSoebgVVpZYAEHeqWcV8lweU-zjgCJiKmBJQP9jvRl8r7HeZ24x2IafTLHO4ivCLA-cxzyShy74IoQqUv_-UBmT0qZJ/s1600/DSC02991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZBk_JZCIccq9mSC97PjIrW9eKTIihlSRFtx6ndsHR5U6lqNvGxvSoebgVVpZYAEHeqWcV8lweU-zjgCJiKmBJQP9jvRl8r7HeZ24x2IafTLHO4ivCLA-cxzyShy74IoQqUv_-UBmT0qZJ/s400/DSC02991.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0Exakf3qLOZhZmyKgzdSNFpibMKq8usR_d2CLVHXQR_d0MMUsznpAkrAyGQ37gEmcGX48ENy-vqrJa_UQiCczoYJFFrUmcrd80HEczZJPBtNzBHcf4TFVlEj3EpKdZ_I8BznLe_7vq6O/s1600/DSC02993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0Exakf3qLOZhZmyKgzdSNFpibMKq8usR_d2CLVHXQR_d0MMUsznpAkrAyGQ37gEmcGX48ENy-vqrJa_UQiCczoYJFFrUmcrd80HEczZJPBtNzBHcf4TFVlEj3EpKdZ_I8BznLe_7vq6O/s400/DSC02993.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyzJyuebgaKWr5aOfN2rL7wLhg725_H70HF0uGhz3LqVia8nnPn4zRuM0c4MxCF1Cbqs7I6dPXVsM7Z3Hhh46_LfmIhE6yr5mgKCNtUurpFVW5h5jdPvek-wlJRaFHR_Rxu-1mjpg9PLe/s1600/DSC03000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyzJyuebgaKWr5aOfN2rL7wLhg725_H70HF0uGhz3LqVia8nnPn4zRuM0c4MxCF1Cbqs7I6dPXVsM7Z3Hhh46_LfmIhE6yr5mgKCNtUurpFVW5h5jdPvek-wlJRaFHR_Rxu-1mjpg9PLe/s400/DSC03000.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Served on a cracker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We didn't eat too much at Takayama as a buffet lunch at Green Hotel was provided as part of the package. It's a surprisingly generous spread from Japanese to Western and Chinese. Of course we zoomed in on the Japanese selection. There's even a chocolate fountain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinax9f1tZtt855KU3WeNcrN8bbt9NwVnl_nhzXYyg4QJyuL0_zwXIe5bmYxPRY6YBB3iuTK6pBTzJXIy248mkbFhCs3tF3pko9rZIIRCPJhidI1ZVOvWSozCjHUPqC8U_raRWTOLhMvvcl/s1600/DSC03040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinax9f1tZtt855KU3WeNcrN8bbt9NwVnl_nhzXYyg4QJyuL0_zwXIe5bmYxPRY6YBB3iuTK6pBTzJXIy248mkbFhCs3tF3pko9rZIIRCPJhidI1ZVOvWSozCjHUPqC8U_raRWTOLhMvvcl/s400/DSC03040.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxrJEzjo8eNE3zRU0mQHtc-qOGiKZJdUHj2-hCR38li1R62tqjoaIDEr0U2lBWWnyXozStdj7SYIrpWtHLp08dsVlpvhupjU8LU1zu1DdR-qp9FQ71a2Z_aNSPPVPNaruYRbbh17JcA67/s1600/DSC03045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuxrJEzjo8eNE3zRU0mQHtc-qOGiKZJdUHj2-hCR38li1R62tqjoaIDEr0U2lBWWnyXozStdj7SYIrpWtHLp08dsVlpvhupjU8LU1zu1DdR-qp9FQ71a2Z_aNSPPVPNaruYRbbh17JcA67/s400/DSC03045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, we arrived at the main attraction - Shirakawa Village. You have a cross a long suspension bridge to get to the village.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpr9ahnyb-h2BPPxaseY4TGX-ekNpKu3Bq0VBA8z5x6BJ6vYKlns9BgGytP29vcmVzK44_rYQJEX7QNSOdiS3XwGcIbv9f4d0wqGln-52P5bhtxef625H_57L11GLtGGWXG6n-HdOmn2_/s1600/DSC03227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpr9ahnyb-h2BPPxaseY4TGX-ekNpKu3Bq0VBA8z5x6BJ6vYKlns9BgGytP29vcmVzK44_rYQJEX7QNSOdiS3XwGcIbv9f4d0wqGln-52P5bhtxef625H_57L11GLtGGWXG6n-HdOmn2_/s400/DSC03227.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Because we came in winter, we were treated to snow-capped houses and a frosty scene - the things fairy tales are made of. For people who live in the tropics, this is simply mesmorising.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdo4m1fCjryZJS6VQQuZl3Ysc0shyphenhyphen3zYTGxuTQ8SA22nFNhA94C_DW1NeoEyqtgQ9Di0lNNVChk8hzZSx0NQpofLkDn8Iiowr8DmbG6gDhBHrSRglV8J61r-8toihPOJDcS8PSJtYQGZT/s1600/DSC03094+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdo4m1fCjryZJS6VQQuZl3Ysc0shyphenhyphen3zYTGxuTQ8SA22nFNhA94C_DW1NeoEyqtgQ9Di0lNNVChk8hzZSx0NQpofLkDn8Iiowr8DmbG6gDhBHrSRglV8J61r-8toihPOJDcS8PSJtYQGZT/s400/DSC03094+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEiwwV315HPfYjot2bmlbP-902hjjrkyfrT6abuQ3fzeBzwZwtNFx8rtHNf6iuQJZYoMUROIOlEbXxcjkMXHmBJD65i76F67MiwnUnzYTeK9h6R2g76vg_Hab-5A3esyO5Ry8kqA9itAi/s1600/DSC03104+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEiwwV315HPfYjot2bmlbP-902hjjrkyfrT6abuQ3fzeBzwZwtNFx8rtHNf6iuQJZYoMUROIOlEbXxcjkMXHmBJD65i76F67MiwnUnzYTeK9h6R2g76vg_Hab-5A3esyO5Ry8kqA9itAi/s400/DSC03104+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3AYhslHwqrjseq9cic-7gd6jRaUbGfdu8BPvRS5-Z8vXT_wNlXhuo69LMHFALyC_u4Bxddatu7h-V-m4v1jHW0ecSmg2brDiLyrisHrEGSzt_Yqg98gytZ9QMYdAesB_oMzrmbUlKV12/s1600/DSC03079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3AYhslHwqrjseq9cic-7gd6jRaUbGfdu8BPvRS5-Z8vXT_wNlXhuo69LMHFALyC_u4Bxddatu7h-V-m4v1jHW0ecSmg2brDiLyrisHrEGSzt_Yqg98gytZ9QMYdAesB_oMzrmbUlKV12/s400/DSC03079.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHgTrgQnYZgLHDSDsSdtINiYhF8hNOs3MrQJj3hfIj2HzXH-HjJhAEAx9PvWI08dkPmsfPVg_0xzh7eIeulI77zJ84nvB60RAHw1vlMIU7Whhg8dAeoqbntqfq1vEOmb1d_mGpQyihyphenhyphenJn/s1600/DSC03118+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHgTrgQnYZgLHDSDsSdtINiYhF8hNOs3MrQJj3hfIj2HzXH-HjJhAEAx9PvWI08dkPmsfPVg_0xzh7eIeulI77zJ84nvB60RAHw1vlMIU7Whhg8dAeoqbntqfq1vEOmb1d_mGpQyihyphenhyphenJn/s400/DSC03118+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8fI1Te_BgAMoWZiLasmcRdsycAKiQJLcKqqSd2tRtOrLVh_RrejyYOee0DWGyklv5ZkbkxWjNu75ZWZEQRGJz_FtBKKtyVvLl1I3FzQGSQ-VO1KlIc7gcZ0z4XnuHzMGn-hbGTUfxftz/s1600/DSC03123+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8fI1Te_BgAMoWZiLasmcRdsycAKiQJLcKqqSd2tRtOrLVh_RrejyYOee0DWGyklv5ZkbkxWjNu75ZWZEQRGJz_FtBKKtyVvLl1I3FzQGSQ-VO1KlIc7gcZ0z4XnuHzMGn-hbGTUfxftz/s400/DSC03123+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The traditional houses are called gassho and are made with thatched roofs. Not a single nail is used. We were given entry to one of the houses. It's dark and cold inside, with lots of beams and steeps stairs.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShklfki-8qV5afJ6XX7B91UHiivuHEwzeL02odgmgXzEeuQQmMeK8Aeeq9jyUImO9lBBKlWPHPjQqGGFjtMa7PPWw_AYra-mNRtGVCYw0KnqnQF75bXGFrkPAsbP6xW6-mg5O6UkxW6-V/s1600/DSC03149+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1164" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShklfki-8qV5afJ6XX7B91UHiivuHEwzeL02odgmgXzEeuQQmMeK8Aeeq9jyUImO9lBBKlWPHPjQqGGFjtMa7PPWw_AYra-mNRtGVCYw0KnqnQF75bXGFrkPAsbP6xW6-mg5O6UkxW6-V/s400/DSC03149+ed.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My goofy kids</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkzPYJxy1UPo7Q9XOvNHwF7zFZ7njObVb9N23g0uvdYMOu-aB-fsij_B5uRETct8sL9BrkUNz_geNES81cITCw12eTKxX_TNftywW4J5s7vvDg68wMnAoyMZJi0jb2AhZNo6ouYto8Odv/s1600/IMG_20181220_144151_HHT+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkzPYJxy1UPo7Q9XOvNHwF7zFZ7njObVb9N23g0uvdYMOu-aB-fsij_B5uRETct8sL9BrkUNz_geNES81cITCw12eTKxX_TNftywW4J5s7vvDg68wMnAoyMZJi0jb2AhZNo6ouYto8Odv/s400/IMG_20181220_144151_HHT+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swinging from a rafter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Views from the gassho.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm8On6rjVQHL46Rb328wLMynGAML50OPhYEWVQh5Fam86Ov6Ek1yjWOyV4-061iCd1CvSz0Qe3hHFr24rj1ODoaDJDEbXl3eNJRkJutMrbP-oxoecxFqaqHtshBv7zd04C-35u1dc8Mu3/s1600/DSC03173+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYm8On6rjVQHL46Rb328wLMynGAML50OPhYEWVQh5Fam86Ov6Ek1yjWOyV4-061iCd1CvSz0Qe3hHFr24rj1ODoaDJDEbXl3eNJRkJutMrbP-oxoecxFqaqHtshBv7zd04C-35u1dc8Mu3/s400/DSC03173+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwIoLC98UqcfV6VMVAEMXOURvKkTVBFvfkzc2KKI-oFmHRGu5Os6vZ_UYCp8l3qmGQeXt48xWkncpOLhFLf8obzKdZQXP4qNbhSgliv5VT_2mHjMMV8OaF-AZhxEV-qn2Nee2c_AYzamc/s1600/DSC03178+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwIoLC98UqcfV6VMVAEMXOURvKkTVBFvfkzc2KKI-oFmHRGu5Os6vZ_UYCp8l3qmGQeXt48xWkncpOLhFLf8obzKdZQXP4qNbhSgliv5VT_2mHjMMV8OaF-AZhxEV-qn2Nee2c_AYzamc/s400/DSC03178+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFKVc8kgg4XvIo5H8cR1z9vgkigFasOnCgiy-Qt69Zm11YgUj8DNu3HjQbfSY8yvMeXhOvfcpex8ok43362yrEWA7BeJtoGF__hkpmszpn6Lp7HPq8Lb0nEFB2Zmnx0wSTX5Uo3bRYqx4/s1600/DSC03192+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWFKVc8kgg4XvIo5H8cR1z9vgkigFasOnCgiy-Qt69Zm11YgUj8DNu3HjQbfSY8yvMeXhOvfcpex8ok43362yrEWA7BeJtoGF__hkpmszpn6Lp7HPq8Lb0nEFB2Zmnx0wSTX5Uo3bRYqx4/s400/DSC03192+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It was bitingly cold. Andre kept singing to himself, "I can't feel my face when I'm with you." Lesley-Anne, who's cold even in Singapore's 30-degree weather, sat herself in front of fires and drank hot green tea wherever it was available.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzG4MJGVxWrUn7koCHf6flhImz6jVFkb2Lg8yKrS1EDpRNGeFiFSn2tSmY54cO9WFdI6ZCtOYE7MfBHUzGX9rQomeG1HMOS_CAceLQJAOBd2KZTwkunuJxucMnAl-yEVbPJgWUfBS0e6p/s1600/20181220_145148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzG4MJGVxWrUn7koCHf6flhImz6jVFkb2Lg8yKrS1EDpRNGeFiFSn2tSmY54cO9WFdI6ZCtOYE7MfBHUzGX9rQomeG1HMOS_CAceLQJAOBd2KZTwkunuJxucMnAl-yEVbPJgWUfBS0e6p/s400/20181220_145148.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a long day, but Shirakawa-go is one of most picture perfect destinations I've ever visited. The landscape is enchanting, like something out of a movie set. If you have the chance, go see it in winter. I hear that it's even more beautiful in the evenings. But don't be silly like us, and wrap up!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7h_f5WySISn-FT1HcDHAQBvAvyvbB2xdD6MqD2guC57eDeIwelKfvkpE7LWG_kt9H6thCz0agpPjlOXPr2dy4PBkC59VcatcgTBRk68kgNlxeQJkqCBRwuUtzj7DTDp7JUYmVjrjCWiK0/s1600/DSC03291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7h_f5WySISn-FT1HcDHAQBvAvyvbB2xdD6MqD2guC57eDeIwelKfvkpE7LWG_kt9H6thCz0agpPjlOXPr2dy4PBkC59VcatcgTBRk68kgNlxeQJkqCBRwuUtzj7DTDp7JUYmVjrjCWiK0/s200/DSC03291.JPG" width="132" /></a></div>
It was a 3-hour bus ride back to Nagoya after that. We agreed that after a chilly day, a steaming bowl of ramen sounded wonderful, so we walked to this 24-hour Ichiran. We had Ichiran in Hong Kong and our unanimous verdict was that it had the best ramen anywhere. We'd tried others in Osaka, but none of them came close to Ichiran.<br />
<br />
In case you're not familiar, at Ichiran, you place and pay for your order at a vending machine first. (Note: their "salted egg" is the ramen egg, not the salted egg we have at home. This is a must-try).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41Sa0wVOsuSHoWmbRQxYOrYSZWkOnKlpy8IsyOcFEL63X-6MKZlw9a6gJSk-9cK0yRfrqw88Wm82Redc0TIZFpuOmvK7XYcfnMfAFVrmKTUIlfUxplEwTb2TTW2qkoSg8Pjt5_-DHYtKv/s1600/DSC03288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41Sa0wVOsuSHoWmbRQxYOrYSZWkOnKlpy8IsyOcFEL63X-6MKZlw9a6gJSk-9cK0yRfrqw88Wm82Redc0TIZFpuOmvK7XYcfnMfAFVrmKTUIlfUxplEwTb2TTW2qkoSg8Pjt5_-DHYtKv/s400/DSC03288.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Then you wait in a room for a booth to be free, and fill out a form stating your preference for richness of broth, condiments, etc. When booths free up, you're shown to yours. The bamboo curtain is up until you hand your waiter your order.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBB_PtOUwNBV1V-F8r0xMmHfEsqaGKPrVunmjBkCcCgRLAbA1In6pmBHnQEDfPuhyphenhyphen92cUcpY-O3waS2ps-Ub-_wEq7OfqPwS-IRCWhzlWhJWb5f92WrZ_9gRUyhQSy7UZOq0bJvWHnb0R/s1600/20181220_190234+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBB_PtOUwNBV1V-F8r0xMmHfEsqaGKPrVunmjBkCcCgRLAbA1In6pmBHnQEDfPuhyphenhyphen92cUcpY-O3waS2ps-Ub-_wEq7OfqPwS-IRCWhzlWhJWb5f92WrZ_9gRUyhQSy7UZOq0bJvWHnb0R/s400/20181220_190234+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
When the order is served, the waiter discretely lowers the curtain so you can enjoy your ramen in peace, alone in your booth. This is an introvert's dream.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpzlbcPmdwOIuKCIJkIlqSA0gjwTsMZoAfPhuaio_lKbikgx-8QQ-kYyKb0LlKCboHA_fnNcWyip2Xn9DUuBf6PkdGTW-KqDtDqtNRliMuxO0b28_xVjU68eq4uXW7P4wQmVrnHaOQZnd/s1600/DSC03270+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcpzlbcPmdwOIuKCIJkIlqSA0gjwTsMZoAfPhuaio_lKbikgx-8QQ-kYyKb0LlKCboHA_fnNcWyip2Xn9DUuBf6PkdGTW-KqDtDqtNRliMuxO0b28_xVjU68eq4uXW7P4wQmVrnHaOQZnd/s400/DSC03270+ed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Kenneth is not a big fan of ramen so he ordered the rice and stewed pork.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh3A6QiLri9JTqGGXyI7XIqbkOMBjCkfksb1bOUlCrBlq3DQxpeA1xp_AwbpT2zidiGLvbYiso5RbkjQUi6BB9Soo6rFfwHw9YYaWCCPokKxWTqXDdlrgtmLJvafdUh8BiClOHpIBHN4Bl/s1600/DSC03258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh3A6QiLri9JTqGGXyI7XIqbkOMBjCkfksb1bOUlCrBlq3DQxpeA1xp_AwbpT2zidiGLvbYiso5RbkjQUi6BB9Soo6rFfwHw9YYaWCCPokKxWTqXDdlrgtmLJvafdUh8BiClOHpIBHN4Bl/s400/DSC03258.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
But the rest of us were in ramen heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVM2VKkPjp0WhuHtTDzxyqbSGeZEIe81EXggfIv1eNz9_-_c1T5XB-94KRptlCNo8moQl0JjwpfFL4K8QzZie6099B6SyoMqyqye7LRT6fqTrMhqNMzHAWI0kIbyOvfpVD6E7pVmPaRfbf/s1600/20181220_192058+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVM2VKkPjp0WhuHtTDzxyqbSGeZEIe81EXggfIv1eNz9_-_c1T5XB-94KRptlCNo8moQl0JjwpfFL4K8QzZie6099B6SyoMqyqye7LRT6fqTrMhqNMzHAWI0kIbyOvfpVD6E7pVmPaRfbf/s400/20181220_192058+ed.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgj7gy_OK4GQGZpmAfs9gM_3SW-0oBMdFVRxfEKwW_vXh-CDhxG2cwaD_5Z5obhBWxOnicnXaKxrhfSPb49ryMHTbcnoM5kS3A0P8afGayBMB1bTJQ16L4ZWK4OiwbTCHNLBqsSkWQVEg/s1600/DSC03276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgj7gy_OK4GQGZpmAfs9gM_3SW-0oBMdFVRxfEKwW_vXh-CDhxG2cwaD_5Z5obhBWxOnicnXaKxrhfSPb49ryMHTbcnoM5kS3A0P8afGayBMB1bTJQ16L4ZWK4OiwbTCHNLBqsSkWQVEg/s400/DSC03276.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Good to the last drop.<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-79669308024423090872018-12-21T10:30:00.000+08:002018-12-21T10:34:34.553+08:00Car-ried away at Toyota Automobile Museum<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 2 (Wed, 19 December 2018)</span><br />
<br />
We had a leisurely start to our second day in Nagoya and went to the popular tonkatsu chain - <a href="http://english.yabaton.com/" target="_blank">Misokatsu Yabaton</a> - for brunch. Misokatsu is a Nagoya speciality - it's miso sauce poured over fried pork cutlet (tokatsu). Yabaton is very popular among locals. When we arrived before noon, there was already a line. They give you menus as you queue and seat you only when you have ordered.<br />
<br />
It was slightly stressful as people who came after us expertly place their orders and were ushered into the restaurant while we were still trying to figure out the difference among the many different cuts of pork and sauces! But eventually we got our act together (when in doubt, order the one listed as "#1 Bestseller") and got a seat. A giant jug of cold green tea was served - trust the Japanese to decide what drink you were supposed to have to complement their food.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxU3VgNMjCaBw7DfFiE_IB0DSQ13Tnk2zU5DYOpt8ivq8diUugqi1FnwSEQhhXiO2IIS8JjLqX3t-Tk7pnHVz1MD-TfQSCT3UlUkpck-1_OcCdod7reCOLsgJ3Yo1HLXZN93aCKjymNda/s1600/20181219_104919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxU3VgNMjCaBw7DfFiE_IB0DSQ13Tnk2zU5DYOpt8ivq8diUugqi1FnwSEQhhXiO2IIS8JjLqX3t-Tk7pnHVz1MD-TfQSCT3UlUkpck-1_OcCdod7reCOLsgJ3Yo1HLXZN93aCKjymNda/s400/20181219_104919.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Three of us ordered the standard misokatsu bowl set. Each set comes with a bowl of soup and a massive serving of shredded cabbage. The waitress pours the red miso sauce over the pork for you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL69w9GvrywOrK9sH9WTedU7WL7jRNQ_QT1gXcZY2synsYJ8ZKBb9h8gm9VymRttgSTmrKTnVdAgYEDTorp-vRYcTIMCvPi78eNbocBhVj2q6BcZlW-_9p0IRrel-oYBECWMQP2TXiB-q4/s1600/DSC02705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL69w9GvrywOrK9sH9WTedU7WL7jRNQ_QT1gXcZY2synsYJ8ZKBb9h8gm9VymRttgSTmrKTnVdAgYEDTorp-vRYcTIMCvPi78eNbocBhVj2q6BcZlW-_9p0IRrel-oYBECWMQP2TXiB-q4/s400/DSC02705.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Andre had the kurobuta (black pork) set.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zkZ4z4xyvMNGPciOcu3eC1cy7f2ZxFbsApCW_RjNp57sUqmXa-Ll8Icb74Cvo2SMiYk7584BeYAL9BEt38wbpPfcj1ic2p4QNgkSTU2KbcF4dJ1QTAQYM7mtwIoS0b6ITGG841lFS63x/s1600/DSC02713.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zkZ4z4xyvMNGPciOcu3eC1cy7f2ZxFbsApCW_RjNp57sUqmXa-Ll8Icb74Cvo2SMiYk7584BeYAL9BEt38wbpPfcj1ic2p4QNgkSTU2KbcF4dJ1QTAQYM7mtwIoS0b6ITGG841lFS63x/s400/DSC02713.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm not a big fan of pork, but the tonkatsu here is excellent. The pork is tender, fatty and juicy, not like some of the tough cuts we tend to get in Singapore. The cabbage and green tea are a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the pork and the sauce.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweWAmz_LL_yy61kU8KeIqAcOitO3LyNPrt1a2v5Xe9btDD6fcbif5w8ezCuiD-XFKsQ58Fygc7u4J0PMoe2ZUy0u9-gKoCXQ_iVZU3CORVVgqYkXD6C3psh3mgmYzVpQjDHChEEIPA2bw/s1600/DSC02716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjweWAmz_LL_yy61kU8KeIqAcOitO3LyNPrt1a2v5Xe9btDD6fcbif5w8ezCuiD-XFKsQ58Fygc7u4J0PMoe2ZUy0u9-gKoCXQ_iVZU3CORVVgqYkXD6C3psh3mgmYzVpQjDHChEEIPA2bw/s400/DSC02716.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O30g6hbWsgdXZnCLLnjgAmxRNWp_lFl68hM6LQpPr8LrgWuld8zuvrt0OV9MUe_M1O6iG4bTWBhCYz0GudzZE3RPISK8yVKs3h1wnxotIaJnt5xQJJVznoHkBVpRkz8k1DNLf3R_cjn5/s1600/DSC02872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3O30g6hbWsgdXZnCLLnjgAmxRNWp_lFl68hM6LQpPr8LrgWuld8zuvrt0OV9MUe_M1O6iG4bTWBhCYz0GudzZE3RPISK8yVKs3h1wnxotIaJnt5xQJJVznoHkBVpRkz8k1DNLf3R_cjn5/s320/DSC02872.JPG" width="320" /></a>On our itinerary today was a trip to the <a href="http://www.toyota.co.jp/Museum/english/" target="_blank">Toyota Automobile Museum</a>.<br />
<br />
To get there, we had to change trains at Fujigaoka subway station. The second leg was the Linimo train. Since it's a private railway, not the subway, we were expecting an older type of train, so was thoroughly impressed when it turned out to be a super modern one which looks like a souped up LRT. It looks very new and it moves so smoothly it practically glides along the rails. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23NNK9bXLqbIp1ijOTr11e2JZpHZS6sEz2dhOhXIFdQcuRykwKHfcFlCbS2X2sf_pomwhZKvGlhJ4GKpdUrXWmihDt3VfwYkOujCCMhyphenhyphenOTnWfFB_lR9xaWubNLsd6Dk3npqXnnBcoL44t/s1600/DSC02731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj23NNK9bXLqbIp1ijOTr11e2JZpHZS6sEz2dhOhXIFdQcuRykwKHfcFlCbS2X2sf_pomwhZKvGlhJ4GKpdUrXWmihDt3VfwYkOujCCMhyphenhyphenOTnWfFB_lR9xaWubNLsd6Dk3npqXnnBcoL44t/s400/DSC02731.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the Linimo train</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen35kF7Gm_AQVR5aJ_7_l9d3fAovdWXmHUfkzNSAuquEC-G3k4peYjTekkl6FGrrn-d_dBeNbDhmtZFO8ltBJYn56VDVLek26zpdfdfzhgIfgnCiWTmqjqsSh9XeQAv6oJsdhmcyK5-K6/s1600/DSC02883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen35kF7Gm_AQVR5aJ_7_l9d3fAovdWXmHUfkzNSAuquEC-G3k4peYjTekkl6FGrrn-d_dBeNbDhmtZFO8ltBJYn56VDVLek26zpdfdfzhgIfgnCiWTmqjqsSh9XeQAv6oJsdhmcyK5-K6/s400/DSC02883.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Entry to the Toyota Automobile Museum is Y1,000 per adult and Y500 for students, but at Fujigaoka station, you can pick up a discount card that gives you 20% off prices. The museum is very well organised, arranged chronologically according to the development of cars from the 1800s.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSAyB7ZFd4gcpafjXnvhblPk0pqmXLzMiJHoaO0Ri9NUqTdF8sQ8eJU9eIFa_b81yvRZI1o5-crHsKCHjDbrs2pJG0Vrf0vm5wOUcy9-OO-tYoOyywRCEMRphZikKVeRZLkA3XZOhbRYG/s1600/DSC02749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSAyB7ZFd4gcpafjXnvhblPk0pqmXLzMiJHoaO0Ri9NUqTdF8sQ8eJU9eIFa_b81yvRZI1o5-crHsKCHjDbrs2pJG0Vrf0vm5wOUcy9-OO-tYoOyywRCEMRphZikKVeRZLkA3XZOhbRYG/s400/DSC02749.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCLXML1cQtXga_-3q_gVXzgGLEqmGu-bvgpnoZtGgWNDznr9hJ_d8CvsTVuopTnK0YaFls179AcIVl7rY86X-GysVgk4YVM2hoMI7uyX8wJ8NGD-RN1TNLAhNzIGx5fkATZWnote4mHEp/s1600/DSC02868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhCLXML1cQtXga_-3q_gVXzgGLEqmGu-bvgpnoZtGgWNDznr9hJ_d8CvsTVuopTnK0YaFls179AcIVl7rY86X-GysVgk4YVM2hoMI7uyX8wJ8NGD-RN1TNLAhNzIGx5fkATZWnote4mHEp/s400/DSC02868.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPYy6g_Ze0HHpPZkpjftU-bhkm58CFB-HJxHTBCgsO30XLKSR3hN1kf0h7cni_4rlUwCbJduXrVsJNAGebMEN7tSzK9ji8vWr-bgSMg-hUQ14LV9PZGVhc2QKNJMFRbC7uElrn7t55fC2/s1600/DSC02772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPYy6g_Ze0HHpPZkpjftU-bhkm58CFB-HJxHTBCgsO30XLKSR3hN1kf0h7cni_4rlUwCbJduXrVsJNAGebMEN7tSzK9ji8vWr-bgSMg-hUQ14LV9PZGVhc2QKNJMFRbC7uElrn7t55fC2/s400/DSC02772.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is the Ford Model T, the car that changed the face of motoring, paving the way for cars to be made available to the mass market.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUS9OBwNSNkG9Tl2U6FTWI354HIKr-72y9swApsStrO0Uv-4dV4JRtyo9JmT0M32nbq2LDwoMqsBO09bNTjGq6lDoym2LdpccDIez9NwhaaAhSPmt0XQgCpGcy4D301iQ8yucUO7STgQ_/s1600/DSC02761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUS9OBwNSNkG9Tl2U6FTWI354HIKr-72y9swApsStrO0Uv-4dV4JRtyo9JmT0M32nbq2LDwoMqsBO09bNTjGq6lDoym2LdpccDIez9NwhaaAhSPmt0XQgCpGcy4D301iQ8yucUO7STgQ_/s400/DSC02761.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Kenneth loves to drive and Andre, who's now learning how to drive, has always been a motorhead. I, on the other hand, have been known not to recognise my own car, and Lesley-Anne is aligned with my non-car inclinations. As Andre went from one exhibit to another, exclaiming, "This is the Cadillac Model 30!" "Wow, a Bugatti!", Lesley-Anne and I were going, "oh look, a green car." and "that's a long one - I wonder how it parallel parks". When Andre excitedly showed us "the first car without a crank" I whispered to Lesley-Anne (whom we sometimes nickname 'Grumpy Cat'), "if you get into that car, we can change that."<br />
<br />
This was the scene eventually (that's Kenneth in the background). Check out my unbridled excitement.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujgfKZ-EioEBTWitEdmsb1PN8kny5mf6YypMJSIYPFhvZNHa9-XCTQGjyyaEDRvnT5YamyEL8h3z96QbRTsIN73TtK4LpabhRyYmQVgyJ7t6qbBG8npqo88U80nl3pQfVQmReNXtttyyY/s1600/DSC02825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjujgfKZ-EioEBTWitEdmsb1PN8kny5mf6YypMJSIYPFhvZNHa9-XCTQGjyyaEDRvnT5YamyEL8h3z96QbRTsIN73TtK4LpabhRyYmQVgyJ7t6qbBG8npqo88U80nl3pQfVQmReNXtttyyY/s400/DSC02825.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Meanwhile, Lesley-Anne, who's our official photographer, decided to adopt a more artistic approach.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AHtOcUlkj_Ibk0hamQ4vvdoaFYsr9IW3EC2sMKH3NgewVQiNrFqrZJE0r8o4GYATd2Gr35AVy7dDZ3XVtmGO_supw-c0n9bHKNKpvn_M8XPzx5M2X7aAHeep6QAsT6A0Kf0x2qKXxSsf/s1600/DSC02763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9AHtOcUlkj_Ibk0hamQ4vvdoaFYsr9IW3EC2sMKH3NgewVQiNrFqrZJE0r8o4GYATd2Gr35AVy7dDZ3XVtmGO_supw-c0n9bHKNKpvn_M8XPzx5M2X7aAHeep6QAsT6A0Kf0x2qKXxSsf/s400/DSC02763.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuGMgUhK-yjQZ08zMgmqnKag3PU0sK9aebHzjsmdC5h499JzShgQ1u6zKKWZ0mPmNMl5qXCvWPEKX-HyL2uo2Yp45Q9TrJDG9BMsr-OA3hZwi5WC9hWdIqpOZ2xaDMC2e_ucQMt5Db51k/s1600/DSC02784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuGMgUhK-yjQZ08zMgmqnKag3PU0sK9aebHzjsmdC5h499JzShgQ1u6zKKWZ0mPmNMl5qXCvWPEKX-HyL2uo2Yp45Q9TrJDG9BMsr-OA3hZwi5WC9hWdIqpOZ2xaDMC2e_ucQMt5Db51k/s400/DSC02784.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwUpLRUSEva7KsorYckfFtURklhF3AlFar1FhYVbLgkN9o9aVEOh0SljYd0yLJ-p7cLUmrYwFI7WUYi4mNpxWTmaiR55uT6J9paXhKeWIfR-RT5MkamVLS2RuWRl_OV4uQoMNLefMXkHB/s1600/DSC02793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwUpLRUSEva7KsorYckfFtURklhF3AlFar1FhYVbLgkN9o9aVEOh0SljYd0yLJ-p7cLUmrYwFI7WUYi4mNpxWTmaiR55uT6J9paXhKeWIfR-RT5MkamVLS2RuWRl_OV4uQoMNLefMXkHB/s400/DSC02793.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqySndq8PvEydBkD2GToepX5nsD7PzWWYzBLZ8lwQP0QzS5OPbMdBV_D8cBEakP5B51EO8cziw443ZCWoA9lLE_3v4ZaK6VnqPFYe7Zoa0MxyePtTKe_T-I9V5jFO0GLC__bdjO6W_z7j/s1600/DSC02805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpqySndq8PvEydBkD2GToepX5nsD7PzWWYzBLZ8lwQP0QzS5OPbMdBV_D8cBEakP5B51EO8cziw443ZCWoA9lLE_3v4ZaK6VnqPFYe7Zoa0MxyePtTKe_T-I9V5jFO0GLC__bdjO6W_z7j/s400/DSC02805.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Before long, this degenerated into the kids hamming it up.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsUZFMJ4veubKVAkblvAOcpGr4LctwBuarPnM6iBmbS2ZUdEApRdnFzvczCN14VgzASuOef48vT0X-9eXXT4gdTAx4AHNFdMYg_R_95bmRW1HtsuaiL_W94SbsQfAq-pWlqBynZ70m0B_/s1600/DSC02817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsUZFMJ4veubKVAkblvAOcpGr4LctwBuarPnM6iBmbS2ZUdEApRdnFzvczCN14VgzASuOef48vT0X-9eXXT4gdTAx4AHNFdMYg_R_95bmRW1HtsuaiL_W94SbsQfAq-pWlqBynZ70m0B_/s400/DSC02817.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The name of this car is Adorable One-Eyed Goblin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXrAaSAmmw-MKsPvv1LGW4NR9QU88Exz2RWRSvGq3Vrsvze_fHt9rY-xihPRpXeDlGLOXf8DyrTsDTDvFydKhm7UmjEmahlb17mgBn_yCPBZwAZYtv1suPUWRezRYTDkWSBB9ZuXt6tUN/s1600/DSC02844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXrAaSAmmw-MKsPvv1LGW4NR9QU88Exz2RWRSvGq3Vrsvze_fHt9rY-xihPRpXeDlGLOXf8DyrTsDTDvFydKhm7UmjEmahlb17mgBn_yCPBZwAZYtv1suPUWRezRYTDkWSBB9ZuXt6tUN/s400/DSC02844.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnG3kI-KddHI3883cY23rQTWCMYOhdBagVGW1oesXPjlKYOE8iVB4FvRig_AZhPV35i6D7a8q0d2VEKJLbUTScTXjrqVT7QmUh0XlSB8IlwUkUYtlusAPg6XKMbY-rS03dTrv5DR9iVYKt/s1600/DSC02866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnG3kI-KddHI3883cY23rQTWCMYOhdBagVGW1oesXPjlKYOE8iVB4FvRig_AZhPV35i6D7a8q0d2VEKJLbUTScTXjrqVT7QmUh0XlSB8IlwUkUYtlusAPg6XKMbY-rS03dTrv5DR9iVYKt/s400/DSC02866.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFs-W7geJ6_NFSkZxuBPMFlbkhRWcCk6dVQSonePR-bbW1jRrW4acXiYrTO7e5i4KdxXBsoopfj0z4N9IWRPwmR0oDl_kj0xkZiF9hPiPnjpCZj1XHk82U2Uy4nhLsNyiSbYqYrlBXt5q/s1600/DSC02862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZFs-W7geJ6_NFSkZxuBPMFlbkhRWcCk6dVQSonePR-bbW1jRrW4acXiYrTO7e5i4KdxXBsoopfj0z4N9IWRPwmR0oDl_kj0xkZiF9hPiPnjpCZj1XHk82U2Uy4nhLsNyiSbYqYrlBXt5q/s400/DSC02862.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a predictor of things to come.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTuHbd0mA7YyaACULJ4EQ2maeRu4LvsbaHpZNIOgYloCYwvjvbs9Js-7FtpIQiyQKyLxOBxXjxpemoqc3NLHg93V2NqX9ewbvBTXvtVnjV9v7Hgy6DGgnggXeUeXxm9ZVMMLmgik8U7Bh/s1600/DSC02830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfTuHbd0mA7YyaACULJ4EQ2maeRu4LvsbaHpZNIOgYloCYwvjvbs9Js-7FtpIQiyQKyLxOBxXjxpemoqc3NLHg93V2NqX9ewbvBTXvtVnjV9v7Hgy6DGgnggXeUeXxm9ZVMMLmgik8U7Bh/s400/DSC02830.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcxJNlZ7h5A9xRW_8pNyMxTe6ExoCY7oQb1ovq3in8yqxMyosx25DpKL_6avyV5HmADOOBmakKa3BNAS2GvKwbahzJ6umCVUwC5YjgPMsIFzMWFaIIt3d_szncCgbmdRblz9wywnmyA1U/s1600/DSC02855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcxJNlZ7h5A9xRW_8pNyMxTe6ExoCY7oQb1ovq3in8yqxMyosx25DpKL_6avyV5HmADOOBmakKa3BNAS2GvKwbahzJ6umCVUwC5YjgPMsIFzMWFaIIt3d_szncCgbmdRblz9wywnmyA1U/s400/DSC02855.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
My disinterest aside, it really is a great museum for petrolheads. Kenneth and Andre enjoyed it a lot and it's not crowded, so you can enjoy a leisurely look at each vehicle.<br />
<br />
Finally, we decided to try another Nagoya speciality for dinner - kishimen which is flat wheat noodles in soup. We went to <a href="https://travel.navitime.com/en/area/jp/spot/02301-2300465/" target="_blank">Yoshida Kishimen</a> at Nagoya station. No English name, so it took us a while to find it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMEipGbaVLIGeQJPXlV-AT-8q9etOnl2hs10y72p48dL_VcF7Z_vr3Matr8wwtdd9TVybk73bCIYfecxj3XtUr7Lsb8qQyKkHNV5w0fBe_B6SLfPsuQoqA4rBeHj9V60L7G_qlIy0uMHW/s1600/DSC02887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnMEipGbaVLIGeQJPXlV-AT-8q9etOnl2hs10y72p48dL_VcF7Z_vr3Matr8wwtdd9TVybk73bCIYfecxj3XtUr7Lsb8qQyKkHNV5w0fBe_B6SLfPsuQoqA4rBeHj9V60L7G_qlIy0uMHW/s400/DSC02887.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Kishimen tastes like udon, just that the noodles are flat. The regular broth is light and tasty. Andre ordered the one with ankake sauce, another Nagoya speciality. It's described as a sticky, spicy sauce with vinegar. It looks similar to the shark's fin soup we get at home, but milder. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvsr9mgdNMZzdENUUmnCgsGugt4C_8sXwV4AN8fGG9Nk3BMBoKLLYXYFFB0I7klgpnZrgTskrC5o_4ksy_pQHo4PKvhep_pI2NM4byGD253AXyhudDyVIKkqsHraSg9wXNQJa_r9YiZtC/s1600/DSC02896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNvsr9mgdNMZzdENUUmnCgsGugt4C_8sXwV4AN8fGG9Nk3BMBoKLLYXYFFB0I7klgpnZrgTskrC5o_4ksy_pQHo4PKvhep_pI2NM4byGD253AXyhudDyVIKkqsHraSg9wXNQJa_r9YiZtC/s400/DSC02896.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A lighter meal in contrast to the rich food we've been having, but alas, diets are thrown to the wind whenever we're on holiday. There's a Family Mart just around the corner of our hotel and Andre discovered this fabulous croquette sold there. We don't know what it is or what it's called but it has macaroni in it, so we think it's some form of mac and cheese croquette. Creamy and cheesy. He's been having this as a snack every night. Yumz.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCuAvHZVfQk8RdIt-JoeGefnNq0DtOVj29-1b0sqBi_i47ZdTBFj05Ftabt3zrFn9s7syN5dnEBFXkGfEv9b6Ut5n930z6BMkGMsVaptScGZZoStVJyeurmzl0-OyTjybkCFhXiZ064_2/s1600/20181218_132715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRCuAvHZVfQk8RdIt-JoeGefnNq0DtOVj29-1b0sqBi_i47ZdTBFj05Ftabt3zrFn9s7syN5dnEBFXkGfEv9b6Ut5n930z6BMkGMsVaptScGZZoStVJyeurmzl0-OyTjybkCFhXiZ064_2/s400/20181218_132715.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5cIMy5XMze0L0RqKOgNSy3iJbyETTuZFG1N9guhcFN5H26ZcRK8jaopoigJSqH8XlaKHtgKOc-R71Di4PEDHCBwdfdNPyRyYVr74_-H9a7-kH5940BAFWdRrFWNkgbld0ntxAYKWwLPO/s1600/20181218_133042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5cIMy5XMze0L0RqKOgNSy3iJbyETTuZFG1N9guhcFN5H26ZcRK8jaopoigJSqH8XlaKHtgKOc-R71Di4PEDHCBwdfdNPyRyYVr74_-H9a7-kH5940BAFWdRrFWNkgbld0ntxAYKWwLPO/s400/20181218_133042.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-80087071352440309152018-12-19T15:50:00.000+08:002018-12-22T20:32:33.736+08:00Nagoya - land of eel repute<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 1 (Tues, 18 December 2018)</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WkhSSZCWeNE2-_z7806X6actaq1tkuDoJ3KEDuMF_RWcXBvhHSsS8LvC-RNy-5Hxg323-yb-IFiaFYhapdrvkGcHrbwzBaVgDxCNENrBIq26D4jQYaK99K6mRMzsiReU9oAJwUSBFOGY/s1600/DSC02553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-WkhSSZCWeNE2-_z7806X6actaq1tkuDoJ3KEDuMF_RWcXBvhHSsS8LvC-RNy-5Hxg323-yb-IFiaFYhapdrvkGcHrbwzBaVgDxCNENrBIq26D4jQYaK99K6mRMzsiReU9oAJwUSBFOGY/s200/DSC02553.JPG" width="200" /></a>Our holiday destination this year is...Nagoya! To be honest, we didn't know much (anything) about Nagoya when we booked our air tickets. We wanted to go somewhere to relax and unwind, as it has been a hectic year for the whole family. And since end December, which is the super peak period, is the only period our kids' school holidays coincide, we decided to just pick a destination where the cost of air tickets didn't require us to sell our kidneys.<br />
<br />
So Nagoya, also because Japan - home of the best food anywhere.<br />
<br />
We took the SQ flight that arrived in Nagoya early in the morning at 8.20am. We were right on time to catch the Centrair Limousine which brought us to the Sakae area in 45mins, where our hotel was.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg071FtCVrReermDk2lqOPRmV7M_uxaRKcwSuFYBX0JgxyHaWvruwPcjKzDzpQuaAfuPy_zEVxSOfBvI7wyHcyueQ50HekD-h9bKgidjxZsYjroD8lmYdwU1cNH3QJ8Uxg8Yu5a1hCn4soh/s1600/IMG_20181218_081310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg071FtCVrReermDk2lqOPRmV7M_uxaRKcwSuFYBX0JgxyHaWvruwPcjKzDzpQuaAfuPy_zEVxSOfBvI7wyHcyueQ50HekD-h9bKgidjxZsYjroD8lmYdwU1cNH3QJ8Uxg8Yu5a1hCn4soh/s400/IMG_20181218_081310.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj044Rl4AaZC4zvp__T6ssFMKAB0Y6tWaj1moDgwUByOKhyphenhyphen-R_JPfTRtescxZdRw7JjuOyo89VSlaxj-Tn32PRBbEuelzthzDe9vd_DiH5P1zhiIdXO3jgDzv7IkZS1ZDaFHSwkJqsGbx6J/s1600/IMG_20181218_094135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj044Rl4AaZC4zvp__T6ssFMKAB0Y6tWaj1moDgwUByOKhyphenhyphen-R_JPfTRtescxZdRw7JjuOyo89VSlaxj-Tn32PRBbEuelzthzDe9vd_DiH5P1zhiIdXO3jgDzv7IkZS1ZDaFHSwkJqsGbx6J/s200/IMG_20181218_094135.jpg" width="150" /></a>The bus stop is on Nishiki Dori Avenue, just a short walk to our hotel, which is <a href="https://sg.hotels.com/ho360116/?q-check-out=2018-12-24&q-check-in=2018-12-18&WOE=1&WOD=2&q-room-0-children=0&tab=description&q-room-1-children=0&q-room-0-adults=2&q-room-1-adults=2&YGF=14&MGT=6&ZSX=0&SYE=3" target="_blank">HotelAPA Nagoya Nishiki</a>. Brief background: the main, most happening area in Nagoya is around Nagoya train station. But hotels near there cost a bomb during the holiday season. Then I discovered that two subway stations away is Sakae, which is Nagoya's main shopping area. Hotels there are much more reasonably priced.<br />
<br />
I wasn't sure if I would regret this choice as reviews were mixed on Tripadvisor. But in the end, we like it a lot. The rooms look like they need a makeover, but they're clean and they're larger than the twin rooms we stayed in in Osaka. The beds are comfortable, they have all the usual amenities and the shower is great (hot with great water pressure).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavHsmtlfT6AbXe-Ix8s_-t8xyEfOe5dFiqSYFoIEnFS327chvMuTCcuZ6bcIbB7QCFd-vWv-1fPbfRpvPCMaKizEvd6cRSKlpknB9SwxrwXHucuz2ssIZMf4knapw9kO9pcPV0tQ8n_A9/s1600/DSC02602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavHsmtlfT6AbXe-Ix8s_-t8xyEfOe5dFiqSYFoIEnFS327chvMuTCcuZ6bcIbB7QCFd-vWv-1fPbfRpvPCMaKizEvd6cRSKlpknB9SwxrwXHucuz2ssIZMf4knapw9kO9pcPV0tQ8n_A9/s400/DSC02602.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kbaDsKZKr9ns8abykdMLpU4NKaCo85UeoIgbj_0NNR62O69hDLLZd4L62gcIwsz9BBw4a4wsd0TWV4tPHQ_CbRTJMhrVEenW6hmsWEglPnpJlAILVg8BQeWVqLJj59P88NPyVo14cObF/s1600/DSC02603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1kbaDsKZKr9ns8abykdMLpU4NKaCo85UeoIgbj_0NNR62O69hDLLZd4L62gcIwsz9BBw4a4wsd0TWV4tPHQ_CbRTJMhrVEenW6hmsWEglPnpJlAILVg8BQeWVqLJj59P88NPyVo14cObF/s400/DSC02603.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
More importantly, the location is fantastic. A 2 min walk from Sakae subway station, and surrounded by malls, shops and eateries.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We were too early to check in, so we dropped our luggage at the hotel and headed off to Meijo Park, two subway stations away. I've always been fascinated by autumn colours, never having had the opportunity to travel during that season, and was hoping to catch some here. I was not disappointed. While most trees have already shed their foliage, there were still a few displaying their fiery hues (thank goodness for late bloomers!) They're absolutely gorgeous.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5XBJOP4hTGW6YR-SY3QP4fWTXI8wEoFw4jctUieQBcjlZTMeIRTHxBxTObQe7HKwkAAK-4gwLzLkgFKP88u59kuF63gD8eYr1jknB59JQ5UpL4pB7xd9uYtkDMFTD41JELOpu2K_772Y/s1600/DSC02478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH5XBJOP4hTGW6YR-SY3QP4fWTXI8wEoFw4jctUieQBcjlZTMeIRTHxBxTObQe7HKwkAAK-4gwLzLkgFKP88u59kuF63gD8eYr1jknB59JQ5UpL4pB7xd9uYtkDMFTD41JELOpu2K_772Y/s400/DSC02478.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-VrCTW2CUpqImlnj4Xo5wK3QmozmGVsDjszvSngt8kUcWNXBTesTtEQQw_KXzKvnaNIE0lyp3reGYfQDjPhUIzGd55YqY5FcODRiaH87mv3482LNRXHIYCRlWmGJdCtsMlX5KOH6T-XT/s1600/DSC02470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-VrCTW2CUpqImlnj4Xo5wK3QmozmGVsDjszvSngt8kUcWNXBTesTtEQQw_KXzKvnaNIE0lyp3reGYfQDjPhUIzGd55YqY5FcODRiaH87mv3482LNRXHIYCRlWmGJdCtsMlX5KOH6T-XT/s400/DSC02470.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwUseFclW89qshZLawrZgsIGFr7pgLShXxJX5h41PASiPJEjvgG3DS51lLsqagfRB9iihsdJxTQjTP2K-zL5SnxSgLDaax2loYlqUhxqaDyK7vtqBCzIERPhWfQRcmJno1_toTvCHDCTx/s1600/DSC02438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwUseFclW89qshZLawrZgsIGFr7pgLShXxJX5h41PASiPJEjvgG3DS51lLsqagfRB9iihsdJxTQjTP2K-zL5SnxSgLDaax2loYlqUhxqaDyK7vtqBCzIERPhWfQRcmJno1_toTvCHDCTx/s400/DSC02438.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKu_ThvNQzv-K3F1oRbSKXn1uaJbS1G36SBuJe7sBMh_ai0oeazJlvekR_xJRlxSRD53cqzjjO-jq-FjqBxXoohtKhP2Gf7lt83NZi__0pPUl6ddDKLpCZK8oOfinXBK8BVXb5GHVGoCAa/s1600/IMG_20181218_104040+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKu_ThvNQzv-K3F1oRbSKXn1uaJbS1G36SBuJe7sBMh_ai0oeazJlvekR_xJRlxSRD53cqzjjO-jq-FjqBxXoohtKhP2Gf7lt83NZi__0pPUl6ddDKLpCZK8oOfinXBK8BVXb5GHVGoCAa/s400/IMG_20181218_104040+ed.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBV5_q032Ne7fNtCypwtLd3AnKksbR0Zjb7IR4kJu1x3iCoA3bHrCXYixgmI4x6uXx6DykQwA2wV6EJNFsBXWYmGUlPJE6cQesJ2PnQ3KJ-aaFi71WEhrOaIyae6_02kO-tQ0fH8k_nUpc/s1600/DSC02423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBV5_q032Ne7fNtCypwtLd3AnKksbR0Zjb7IR4kJu1x3iCoA3bHrCXYixgmI4x6uXx6DykQwA2wV6EJNFsBXWYmGUlPJE6cQesJ2PnQ3KJ-aaFi71WEhrOaIyae6_02kO-tQ0fH8k_nUpc/s400/DSC02423.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMXIqLXKzv3EII9xcwjxRrYe6ZZfweMDXsxbJ6wBtOWqRSpsBvk95E5u5xWAxcYl9vrA8K4zLkBe3JZRPgHhSDoqLrHm0f1p5xByS1OrcJyauL5RtlhXXbpcmlhCOnJjCcQIs2zCFZ3Fw/s1600/DSC02491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMXIqLXKzv3EII9xcwjxRrYe6ZZfweMDXsxbJ6wBtOWqRSpsBvk95E5u5xWAxcYl9vrA8K4zLkBe3JZRPgHhSDoqLrHm0f1p5xByS1OrcJyauL5RtlhXXbpcmlhCOnJjCcQIs2zCFZ3Fw/s400/DSC02491.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMSn-bHWQLC9iZIN4DAV9MZh0QDX4NKrLwm3Xh8kr-OQ-h4kvEW6iWoG8Eg2YIRnjAXEETDUH7uEULCDp91FwZKPBpqbRSubSNBTcLTaS23kX34Dr470yAMe_zkP08QvtIGj7ZjX44ufT/s1600/DSC02413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="1600" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMSn-bHWQLC9iZIN4DAV9MZh0QDX4NKrLwm3Xh8kr-OQ-h4kvEW6iWoG8Eg2YIRnjAXEETDUH7uEULCDp91FwZKPBpqbRSubSNBTcLTaS23kX34Dr470yAMe_zkP08QvtIGj7ZjX44ufT/s400/DSC02413.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
After that stroll in the park, we went for a spot of lunch at Oasis 21 - a mall near Sakae. The weather was just a tad nippy at 12 degrees celcius.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlde4b9GrCQrfiebCrF9xIMUoimXN3QwJ34zPZYU81G_OJ4K3lVfCCUZ6akSvFH25E10Su_Qxhv43JMpzmlXkF78m5mYAy4NoYf_CuxSV1bSJLS8yCptQBTegfYq3jKqV_Du6hxKUqTpR/s1600/DSC02583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQlde4b9GrCQrfiebCrF9xIMUoimXN3QwJ34zPZYU81G_OJ4K3lVfCCUZ6akSvFH25E10Su_Qxhv43JMpzmlXkF78m5mYAy4NoYf_CuxSV1bSJLS8yCptQBTegfYq3jKqV_Du6hxKUqTpR/s400/DSC02583.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The venue was <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g298106-d6420758-Reviews-Nigiri_no_Tokube_Aeon_Chikusa-Nagoya_Aichi_Prefecture_Tokai_Chubu.html" target="_blank">Nigiri no Tokube</a> - a sushi kaiten (sushi train) restaurant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFI5nYAJPetleGKvDVnoy-8IbNAZvchNoVnw4_Tgj86OM6v_-RqhKwG983S04ViCUxb40Mrqmm-MYnKKUnH9Dmm7cj2PnudvqeSzTIKRHpe4pAm7aWDd2ciVSEVpLhGQRkI0wucRAwkda/s1600/DSC02554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaFI5nYAJPetleGKvDVnoy-8IbNAZvchNoVnw4_Tgj86OM6v_-RqhKwG983S04ViCUxb40Mrqmm-MYnKKUnH9Dmm7cj2PnudvqeSzTIKRHpe4pAm7aWDd2ciVSEVpLhGQRkI0wucRAwkda/s400/DSC02554.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_LvZOcAVy2tu73KZKW1W-GeIjsw5LXyjH5MKzkK-eKc5kZRxaWlF-LPPlZFajGhN4nd_GpWX-a6HfVTNxuE_qxtGFvK4F2aevqkoxCoO1mh-zwNatt5UZQW85OTk0CIZP6aMWMheQcl5/s1600/DSC02561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_LvZOcAVy2tu73KZKW1W-GeIjsw5LXyjH5MKzkK-eKc5kZRxaWlF-LPPlZFajGhN4nd_GpWX-a6HfVTNxuE_qxtGFvK4F2aevqkoxCoO1mh-zwNatt5UZQW85OTk0CIZP6aMWMheQcl5/s400/DSC02561.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sushi kaitens have never disappointed us in Japan. The sushi is always fresh and the price affordable. The scallops were ridiculously delicious, unlike the ones in Singapore which tend to be rather tasteless.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtpVfZguXxjj-Kol_Hr-9EYJPixKdXzvs4D9yMcEEy8_ih3GrqOMKIwwYbcdPs325E4HHeITN3TDIC_zKb5Ulgd-vDnkmOXSETAX8DJ40e5OGmh9TMQwLsUsKQ5VaALA_4rtXUVi8KkuX/s1600/DSC02565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtpVfZguXxjj-Kol_Hr-9EYJPixKdXzvs4D9yMcEEy8_ih3GrqOMKIwwYbcdPs325E4HHeITN3TDIC_zKb5Ulgd-vDnkmOXSETAX8DJ40e5OGmh9TMQwLsUsKQ5VaALA_4rtXUVi8KkuX/s400/DSC02565.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwi15mOXIWE1IX48muAQJ3GztpVlA4ol2zAOO2ActJa6VWZOaTI9vVXC-Ha3gWJSOiffwtl-EhWaXe4IYcrXDyPvTvs03wYQnM0bTpCCjbbd6ACdX8FEfCVGcdPgnRKgYqDQF-XgJHMDU/s1600/DSC02570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKwi15mOXIWE1IX48muAQJ3GztpVlA4ol2zAOO2ActJa6VWZOaTI9vVXC-Ha3gWJSOiffwtl-EhWaXe4IYcrXDyPvTvs03wYQnM0bTpCCjbbd6ACdX8FEfCVGcdPgnRKgYqDQF-XgJHMDU/s400/DSC02570.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGHsftVdr_sfl8VkBq-tFEGitkhxPPITkaxItgE6SgA5nNTz-Hg93_odJZzTvWqsP46XJ5gtY1hUQ5Acu1qqD9cP7nmaEmPrGJVM9QJdPYg4M5-0R3mgKkIRWvaAE7jDe6l3S_yvRUkBv/s1600/DSC02573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbGHsftVdr_sfl8VkBq-tFEGitkhxPPITkaxItgE6SgA5nNTz-Hg93_odJZzTvWqsP46XJ5gtY1hUQ5Acu1qqD9cP7nmaEmPrGJVM9QJdPYg4M5-0R3mgKkIRWvaAE7jDe6l3S_yvRUkBv/s400/DSC02573.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
By then, we were feeling pretty much like zombies, not having slept much on the flight over. So we went back to the hotel, checked in and took a 3-hour nap. After which, we were all refreshed and ready for...dinner!<br />
<br />
One of Nagoya's specialties is hitsumabushi or grilled eel on rice. And the one restaurant that comes up on every list featuring Nagoya's hitsumabushi is <a href="http://www.houraiken.com/" target="_blank">Atsuta Horaiken</a> - a restaurant with a 140 year history, so of course that's the one we had to try.<br />
<br />
We went to the Atsuka branch at Matsuzakaya shopping centre, about a 10 min walk from our hotel. We almost missed it - the restaurant has no food displays, menus or English signboards on the outside, just a Japanese name. We didn't even realise it was a restaurant! Guess they are that famous.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KaWvRHxmwKgVwmTnL2xoQTtnbVUbNnvHY3HKH2OlBOZd6hMSy8U6xUi04ywe3TZn47cLpKTZzwr0qV-G_6CHS1CJRNF8KpZ6pmKXelc1G0A68cd9OMVcqnCdLmVSFB7ydJrHs4DmHwnj/s1600/DSC02628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0KaWvRHxmwKgVwmTnL2xoQTtnbVUbNnvHY3HKH2OlBOZd6hMSy8U6xUi04ywe3TZn47cLpKTZzwr0qV-G_6CHS1CJRNF8KpZ6pmKXelc1G0A68cd9OMVcqnCdLmVSFB7ydJrHs4DmHwnj/s400/DSC02628.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We ordered their hitsumabushi and a serving of eel liver.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEwYJ8Whlsw2bxdH1-so0qaaC0pkak_ILngLe8ymBGxI8WPihAnAIUvp5B256ae7gi5rPb39p8MiLJGTCAUSGNnp8j-nvprFlHf2Pw5mok6vLc2Yv55iz5iJTL2CIFgFU4ssOuzESzjd0/s1600/DSC02611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEEwYJ8Whlsw2bxdH1-so0qaaC0pkak_ILngLe8ymBGxI8WPihAnAIUvp5B256ae7gi5rPb39p8MiLJGTCAUSGNnp8j-nvprFlHf2Pw5mok6vLc2Yv55iz5iJTL2CIFgFU4ssOuzESzjd0/s400/DSC02611.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKH7FXKCqQxGqPO0mxHx5jaU6V6pzflENhIjjDFPAfszc4CoZ_UAZIzmiPCpSJPkb9ixfbpAdne3G2YdgzvAfII6Mthn0Coin4hEmW24jDumphF_POq_YuA7tnUTNWa3a5K0PJ1o0DbOP/s1600/DSC02609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoKH7FXKCqQxGqPO0mxHx5jaU6V6pzflENhIjjDFPAfszc4CoZ_UAZIzmiPCpSJPkb9ixfbpAdne3G2YdgzvAfII6Mthn0Coin4hEmW24jDumphF_POq_YuA7tnUTNWa3a5K0PJ1o0DbOP/s400/DSC02609.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eel liver</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EyfN5p8VNssbvMWTXktjN5HRnVcX1UY5vOZPUQaTEbjGFCbY2DVwuXU-867V6hNF8RN_3aFgPSxIZiJwI706QHnTPvwXXf6IYwmxosAjSRZTmaeyd_znObznGq-5fI7fWmrKzrOhpBDj/s1600/DSC02613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2EyfN5p8VNssbvMWTXktjN5HRnVcX1UY5vOZPUQaTEbjGFCbY2DVwuXU-867V6hNF8RN_3aFgPSxIZiJwI706QHnTPvwXXf6IYwmxosAjSRZTmaeyd_znObznGq-5fI7fWmrKzrOhpBDj/s400/DSC02613.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-8msGVFtW7ssONbHctYwKpi299v3FvAJA-0Pr3ADtmN3sOfUHjQJFIcHd-OFI4cfuOIQPlHzud-j7i0tTRGFl6pZA_JSgW3ovfxXHnyKhuf0DcWdVDxdlUqIfREAsjPfWA82XW8duoMn/s1600/DSC02619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-8msGVFtW7ssONbHctYwKpi299v3FvAJA-0Pr3ADtmN3sOfUHjQJFIcHd-OFI4cfuOIQPlHzud-j7i0tTRGFl6pZA_JSgW3ovfxXHnyKhuf0DcWdVDxdlUqIfREAsjPfWA82XW8duoMn/s400/DSC02619.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpQ60Q1VPzXTgJPBM6wvSay4GfYkKIMFgEY97N1iVwHVSQwFLvJNOVrptsb-FqqbKMsRRXQh-4r66oWHjTQROE5u9nHIkrPLYd5kvwJzCRICFFbaJxKO5mKGTZ8pT5j5NaWgd0XajJNc4/s1600/DSC02620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPpQ60Q1VPzXTgJPBM6wvSay4GfYkKIMFgEY97N1iVwHVSQwFLvJNOVrptsb-FqqbKMsRRXQh-4r66oWHjTQROE5u9nHIkrPLYd5kvwJzCRICFFbaJxKO5mKGTZ8pT5j5NaWgd0XajJNc4/s400/DSC02620.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
You can eat it three ways: alone, with condiments (spring onions, wasabi, seaweed) or with a bouillon. It was incredibly delicious, eaten any way. Sweet and smokey, with a slightly charred taste. It's like eel claypot rice. It's so good we want to come back. Tip: the rice portion is quite large. If you don't eat that much rice, order the large bowl which gives you more eel for Y5,100 and share it among two people.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFye1ZszYL5Adh4eqMbNUzsD2aO1_QX2e-7APm_hDMZkAg9exPYOyvW3Pc-Waj2RtsDDCO85ztHIT_e0GHl9EO53DfOFTgUjJUUj31HxuWfCTK4DyQk7kcov_8q8iUi3J6YKamLOxZhQ1F/s1600/DSC02624.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFye1ZszYL5Adh4eqMbNUzsD2aO1_QX2e-7APm_hDMZkAg9exPYOyvW3Pc-Waj2RtsDDCO85ztHIT_e0GHl9EO53DfOFTgUjJUUj31HxuWfCTK4DyQk7kcov_8q8iUi3J6YKamLOxZhQ1F/s400/DSC02624.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After that scrumptious meal, we explored the area. One observation: the crowds here are nothing like Tokyo and Osaka. Considering this is the holiday season, the streets are quieter and not teeming with people, which we like a lot. There are definitely fewer tourists, and the tourists are mostly Japanese. We definitely stuck out as tourists here, and we have yet to see any Singaporeans.<br />
<br />
We're really enjoying this - it's such a nice change from other busy cities. However the downside is that many restaurants only have signs only in Japanese, and most restaurant workers don't speak any form of English, which can make communication a little tricky. Ah well, there's always Google translate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This is closest to the Glico running man in Dotonbori, Osaka - the Don Quijote building, which is at the intersection with the ferris wheel of Sunshine Sakae.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6sXeUtzsVb6G-r-JGfA0x-iAG3-sKjMI72-YD13TkN_YmqxCsG34SFLAWJjrR7NT2BgLAy2uP5kdtDUccCeVWpUcmxz5sm8Br43g5tGOBQ3az-6rqk7Z3ZJPVYEkQk5wf5ezY-2XVloy/s1600/DSC02655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6sXeUtzsVb6G-r-JGfA0x-iAG3-sKjMI72-YD13TkN_YmqxCsG34SFLAWJjrR7NT2BgLAy2uP5kdtDUccCeVWpUcmxz5sm8Br43g5tGOBQ3az-6rqk7Z3ZJPVYEkQk5wf5ezY-2XVloy/s400/DSC02655.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHM2H9vQKP1n2T8fZyDM7uOoKwJTsT70a1ySgRpN0COLES_AZQfe0-MtFcpmQGrmXkNjp6wH0GypLQFeL2pmrH6ZeLYyxr5L3Om61vkOi1ZybnX27Rgk2Wu2x4I0JXmxcYoM9NLC_3RgDA/s1600/DSC02662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHM2H9vQKP1n2T8fZyDM7uOoKwJTsT70a1ySgRpN0COLES_AZQfe0-MtFcpmQGrmXkNjp6wH0GypLQFeL2pmrH6ZeLYyxr5L3Om61vkOi1ZybnX27Rgk2Wu2x4I0JXmxcYoM9NLC_3RgDA/s400/DSC02662.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our hotel is around the corner from the Nagoya Tower, which is lit up at night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNkisQXx2eN1wCPKx_7uReIMsXmX1YuaFKx-C-9-49l11QCv3H4QMR7-XtBo1eSL9gYOIlRWLdItC_58CXUzV-ctZ0fNtaox3Sr1vPwT5zUZEdMERojA63x9dhvXybRu1Wbx9NUUzWmQQ/s1600/DSC02672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNkisQXx2eN1wCPKx_7uReIMsXmX1YuaFKx-C-9-49l11QCv3H4QMR7-XtBo1eSL9gYOIlRWLdItC_58CXUzV-ctZ0fNtaox3Sr1vPwT5zUZEdMERojA63x9dhvXybRu1Wbx9NUUzWmQQ/s400/DSC02672.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Next to it is Oasis 21, which is illuminated in Christmas colours for the season<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YaKq7rKjOx4YOrosdVuaL6IJ3Hoq7pyLEhgk5ubz8fY00mvqM7kNdArQIxkNU36pQDveeikNn2oN23bu597q9-WcuEaoOSODc7riUX_L9hp2a8MJWDxLfyGwRVl8hxGUbPVVqO3jepVV/s1600/DSC02685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YaKq7rKjOx4YOrosdVuaL6IJ3Hoq7pyLEhgk5ubz8fY00mvqM7kNdArQIxkNU36pQDveeikNn2oN23bu597q9-WcuEaoOSODc7riUX_L9hp2a8MJWDxLfyGwRVl8hxGUbPVVqO3jepVV/s400/DSC02685.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUJRsGniMJPjfc8I3XFKnuyyhRATO_dp6fB4xfg3y9duRd4repkqXwSI5f6LR62jFKmXF1uuaN5de6rtQTzz1H4Axo83eSTOMr98WjRBE6JEJfCKdBpSBmXislObxd9Uv6I8XTcz4vq-u/s1600/DSC02690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUJRsGniMJPjfc8I3XFKnuyyhRATO_dp6fB4xfg3y9duRd4repkqXwSI5f6LR62jFKmXF1uuaN5de6rtQTzz1H4Axo83eSTOMr98WjRBE6JEJfCKdBpSBmXislObxd9Uv6I8XTcz4vq-u/s400/DSC02690.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the rooftop of Oasis 21</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-64918089765649802612017-10-03T14:30:00.000+08:002017-10-03T14:47:23.136+08:00Travel tips to Osaka and Kyoto<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 8 (Sat, 30 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
It was bye bye Osaka for us, bright and early, to catch the 10.55am flight back to Singapore.<br />
<br />
Getting to Kansai Airport from Namba station is quite straightforward. Take the Nankai Line (Limited Express Rapit takes about 38mins). I recommend <a href="http://www.howto-osaka.com/en/ticket/ticket/webtoku.html" target="_blank">booking online</a> to enjoy a discounted price of Y1,130 (one way) vs the normal price of Y1,430. Don't worry, you don't need to specify the time of the train when you book, just the date. We caught the 7.30am train and arrived at Kansai at 8.11am.<br />
<br />
Nothing much to talk about on this day so I'll just share a few tips and observations on travelling in Kyoto/Osaka.<br />
<br />
<b>Trains</b><br />
<br />
Trains in Osaka and Kyoto are no different from the ones in the rest of Japan - they're fast and reliable. However, getting on the right train can be confusing, especially in larger stations like Kyoto and Namba. While getting to the correct line is usually easy, we found that their signages for the direction can be a little muddled. Sometimes, the same destination is depicted on the walls for opposing directions, which makes things somewhat confusing.<br />
<br />
The frequency of their subway trains is high but less so when it comes to rail. To compound matters, there are often multiple types of trains for one route, eg. express, special and local, with different timings and frequencies. Here's a <a href="http://www.hyperdia.com/en/" target="_blank">very useful site</a> to check train schedules and figure out the best route to your destination. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgXwxetpuv3rm96IxGj_5AdH8bXF2n1ImaTie9vcHKSA4MuYO2HxPlwXuQtPZTgNf5PrbnIqOYvOxQs-6GJgXXAOjuUsT3qZsPBsExlUNiY2L6S6Hj88HM1y3qdjnfSZUJI1Pf-lD-PvH/s1600/DSC00499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgXwxetpuv3rm96IxGj_5AdH8bXF2n1ImaTie9vcHKSA4MuYO2HxPlwXuQtPZTgNf5PrbnIqOYvOxQs-6GJgXXAOjuUsT3qZsPBsExlUNiY2L6S6Hj88HM1y3qdjnfSZUJI1Pf-lD-PvH/s400/DSC00499.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
In other words, when travelling on the trains, do give yourself ample
leeway in terms of time - at least 15 minutes extra. At times, we'd gotten lost in the station, waited at the wrong platform or gone to the wrong counter to collect tickets. Since some trains run only every half an hour or so, going early also means you have a higher chance of getting a seat.<br />
<br />
<b>Wifi</b><br />
<br />
Many places in Osaka and Kyoto offer free wifi, whether at the hotels, train stations or cafes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjInSa2Iltea4VoADalasbsoiHdpz2zdevwdDNTPFLH5l-qDWE396o3Mb22wAuMI2IXoHPUouLn0bCxKEWtmmcdfGlSYHDm6YeWQ7KA8Qxn0WVMkk1rjR28UI5ZY0bMHqaCYasEmu_7Ee/s1600/DSC00620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjInSa2Iltea4VoADalasbsoiHdpz2zdevwdDNTPFLH5l-qDWE396o3Mb22wAuMI2IXoHPUouLn0bCxKEWtmmcdfGlSYHDm6YeWQ7KA8Qxn0WVMkk1rjR28UI5ZY0bMHqaCYasEmu_7Ee/s400/DSC00620.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
However, the strength of the connection varies. Even in our five-star hotel, the connection dropped intermittently. For this reason, I highly recommend <a href="https://www.changirecommends.com/owifi.aspx?gclid=CPX4m6zW0dYCFUQeaAodu3AHOA" target="_blank">Changi Wifi</a>. At only $5 a day, you get wifi on the go for your family (it also provided incentive for my kids to stick close to me if they wanted wifi 😆). Having wifi on the go is particularly useful in areas where there are simply no road names or English names. Many a times, we couldn't find our destination using a regular map and had to resort to using google maps for walking directions. Saved us from getting lost.<br />
<br />
<b>Fruit and Veg</b><br />
<br />
I'd noted this in my Tokyo trip 9 years ago, and it's still true of Osaka/Kyoto today. Fresh fruit is a rare commodity in Japan. For those of us who are used to eating 1 or 2 servings of fruit each day, we found it very difficult to keep this up in Osaka/Kyoto. At the supermarket, the selection of fruit is puny compared to what we're used to, and ridiculously pricey. Most fruit is sold singly, even bananas, and it's hard to find anything under Y250 (about S$3).<br />
<br />
In the markets, we saw melons being sold at about S$8 a SLICE and these weren't even the premium gift melons famed in Japan, just ordinary ones. This photo was taken at Kuromon Ichiba Market. Peaches for up to Y2,500 (about S$30) each and grapes for Y1,500 (about S$18) per punnet. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYdEMDNXJlUj35guFIjwfA0rp3bXUzmuDXMQcIf8ya286f7pe_PLnCSCkXHXWjP88e8joeL5gTmz1Xsl6cOdIz83HTxkmHScrci1rVKIWt9iQFInmUiDFUpx7LYvrBc5x6m6s6bZ1c1zV/s1600/DSC01954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYdEMDNXJlUj35guFIjwfA0rp3bXUzmuDXMQcIf8ya286f7pe_PLnCSCkXHXWjP88e8joeL5gTmz1Xsl6cOdIz83HTxkmHScrci1rVKIWt9iQFInmUiDFUpx7LYvrBc5x6m6s6bZ1c1zV/s400/DSC01954.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm not sure why this is so. I tried searching on the Internet and some say it's because Japan has very strict standards on fruit - it has to be perfect before it can be sold, hence the high prices. Others say it's due to high import taxes on fruit. Whatever it is, it seems like fruit to the Japanese is a premium item like cake to us, not something you eat every day.<br />
<br />
Same goes for veggies. In meals, it's rare to see a lot of fresh veg. You tend to get only pickled veg in small quantities. On our first night back home, it was wonderful to be able to eat a huge plate of stir-fried broccoli - I think we ate more fresh veg in that one meal than in our entire trip put together.<br />
<br />
There's not much you can do about this but if you want to get your servings of fibre without spending a fortune at the supermarket, one option is to bring bags of dried fruit like raisins, prunes or apricots. <br />
<br />
<b>What to Buy</b><br />
<br />
Obviously this is up to individual preference, but go for Japanese goods (duh). Very popular among tourists are Japanese cosmetics, which are a lot cheaper in Japan than in Singapore. For instance, the Liese hair colour sells at Watson's for S$19.90, whereas in Osaka, you can get it for Y650 (about S$8). Incidentally, Japanese women go ga-ga over mascara and eyeliner - these two items hog advertising space throughout the city, even on trains. And speaking from personal experience, nothing beats Japanese brands in this department.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTbnZ-nRkyh_IOmimEJxXHGr5tL7Dvg2aJFeBIDuA5i8LfsQyRFo6TfvckyXKw20qQSTTTBxV9_l0_nDfc9XOYyn5I-BU1_rmZpcZU_JCzHlVY0JqWtvwWOmYjZ6mHg9AQGagVRllEaDW/s1600/20171002_095733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTbnZ-nRkyh_IOmimEJxXHGr5tL7Dvg2aJFeBIDuA5i8LfsQyRFo6TfvckyXKw20qQSTTTBxV9_l0_nDfc9XOYyn5I-BU1_rmZpcZU_JCzHlVY0JqWtvwWOmYjZ6mHg9AQGagVRllEaDW/s400/20171002_095733.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Furthermore, most of the discount stores offer tax-free shopping. Just bring along your passport for a waiver of the 8% tax. You can find these beauty stores all over Dotonbori. <br />
<br />
Of course, another huge shopping hit is Uniqlo. There's a large outlet at one end of Shinsaibashi. And for us foodies, surprise surprise...food! We love snacks that you can't find in Singapore. Edamame bean Pretz! Calpis sweets! Sake Kit Kat! Green tea Cream Collon! So kitschy and so fun. There's no one shop that sells everything cheaper, you'll need to compare. We went to Daikoku at Shinsaibashi which carries both food and cosmetics. The prices there are quite reasonable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuJc-Plm5oKpoEdCHl79Nkq98XBKivtjw5jtGUUOuYS-mSo6r50qqswGSEQO4cKfu9qfHYz_Q9tr8ssuIzwrj5YMYC9Y_NuM7HzkZpr0lkxzv3MRZiwqmRbycIJiWzUUQqMHrnHhOlmbR/s1600/food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiuJc-Plm5oKpoEdCHl79Nkq98XBKivtjw5jtGUUOuYS-mSo6r50qqswGSEQO4cKfu9qfHYz_Q9tr8ssuIzwrj5YMYC9Y_NuM7HzkZpr0lkxzv3MRZiwqmRbycIJiWzUUQqMHrnHhOlmbR/s400/food.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Vending Machines</b><br />
<br />
Ah, the thrill of Japanese vending machines! They sell anything from beer to hot food to umbrellas. What really amazed me though was that they can be found anywhere. Driving must be thirsty business in Japan because there was a vending machine at the entrance of virtually every carpark we passed. Once, we were waiting for the traffic light to change at a traffic junction and there, on the island in the middle of nowhere, was a vending machine. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqlbihuTy4DArRciAGydmXLi_58AqbIjpsDPgtou-fEZd5pRkardWduCom2Wy000gL9tz1w_f53Xu3OGYzokrOGMEEddq4DJ9uufuPWQEbct4n35yxKRszcHUXOW2O3EMUXTfKpiJ8Z9Z/s1600/IMG_20170927_151339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqlbihuTy4DArRciAGydmXLi_58AqbIjpsDPgtou-fEZd5pRkardWduCom2Wy000gL9tz1w_f53Xu3OGYzokrOGMEEddq4DJ9uufuPWQEbct4n35yxKRszcHUXOW2O3EMUXTfKpiJ8Z9Z/s400/IMG_20170927_151339.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_B_qJnA37oX2UwneLpvE0beiiNGMgtwycPKCyugK_FKz7UuzO42TCijBkglLbzdHzA3RdiFJ9WK4LkPQ3lPSr349p8kYJ1-HTMpH1zmpvIBU_x4zvmtwoerQ5s1bYDAOsjWW8kywBkqK/s1600/IMG_20170926_104029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_B_qJnA37oX2UwneLpvE0beiiNGMgtwycPKCyugK_FKz7UuzO42TCijBkglLbzdHzA3RdiFJ9WK4LkPQ3lPSr349p8kYJ1-HTMpH1zmpvIBU_x4zvmtwoerQ5s1bYDAOsjWW8kywBkqK/s400/IMG_20170926_104029.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Andre was very fascinated by drinks he'd never heard of before. Who knew Coke could be a health drink?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELimXmJMWQ2ykzHQVm_32OZGkjozTjMOc-PAD-D-G98Hq3c75O5uCbL_4R8ECN6_BriU8yW2bY_SdmDLDCXZi-LuNFNBaUWzBDsPjWsepPx9FKlWntcHOKwPzE6QJKbPbnIhaTPLV4994/s1600/IMG_20170926_104047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELimXmJMWQ2ykzHQVm_32OZGkjozTjMOc-PAD-D-G98Hq3c75O5uCbL_4R8ECN6_BriU8yW2bY_SdmDLDCXZi-LuNFNBaUWzBDsPjWsepPx9FKlWntcHOKwPzE6QJKbPbnIhaTPLV4994/s400/IMG_20170926_104047.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
He tried this one that quickly became a favourite - Fanta Kiwi! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpV1WBabo1_9S_OFFlDjZBIH3RO55QVFYmbhBcxelRQyWXLthJBne6aKB2xeSCoA1ZGA6bqVQwAGcuF19XcjoOPDxQoCIuBaA-WhtWy_GtMdKgyA9EuUpgjTPgIPDvljcpiC0J_IXoa-Wm/s400/DSC00937.JPG" width="265" /></div>
<br />
<b>English Signs</b><br />
<br />
Finally, Japan wouldn't be Japan without their idiosyncratic use of the English language. I was very tickled by many of their signages. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMcTjxI5dVE4qGhZKUZz3PYU75yOGXvRLiSU3JvN8ijhyphenhyphenJSjcENV7NH0bR8r4eLHj8xGXCi3m1TBsUrhf0PxPrb-DUg4FJ2EF8GVFn4EjDJEEJ_W_6cM4SUOTnsmrKewSfPBY8SkvHYIFF/s1600/20170927_213903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMcTjxI5dVE4qGhZKUZz3PYU75yOGXvRLiSU3JvN8ijhyphenhyphenJSjcENV7NH0bR8r4eLHj8xGXCi3m1TBsUrhf0PxPrb-DUg4FJ2EF8GVFn4EjDJEEJ_W_6cM4SUOTnsmrKewSfPBY8SkvHYIFF/s400/20170927_213903.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious hormone therapy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxM2uq_DSneJVI9nsSe8ctL5jK9SDQ0ThYurvz_EB2Bc_oxgs6OsybmOWp9t0qKXhZFgs7KG_rR99bCNE7AJ83Fru7kYGGOf4F5Xgu7OHMIZ1eQhmNK-hOUY1J7yMZ5ruBxMTXKH6_0yb/s1600/20170927_143954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxM2uq_DSneJVI9nsSe8ctL5jK9SDQ0ThYurvz_EB2Bc_oxgs6OsybmOWp9t0qKXhZFgs7KG_rR99bCNE7AJ83Fru7kYGGOf4F5Xgu7OHMIZ1eQhmNK-hOUY1J7yMZ5ruBxMTXKH6_0yb/s400/20170927_143954.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese lifts are very kind - they never put you down.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBM9oHLg7oOFzpOOlhaSATrZgG7iVXDKiU-_Z4KkLOVXrsNE93f5p4RLMSMaiQwq6yewqGYudXMLPDL1YDLmAygu1OP-L3HhabhqFMLO6IIGfT6fjTZ8IghWjZ2aROM5o8Q_qtZTRjviy/s1600/20170928_101216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBM9oHLg7oOFzpOOlhaSATrZgG7iVXDKiU-_Z4KkLOVXrsNE93f5p4RLMSMaiQwq6yewqGYudXMLPDL1YDLmAygu1OP-L3HhabhqFMLO6IIGfT6fjTZ8IghWjZ2aROM5o8Q_qtZTRjviy/s400/20170928_101216.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It sells clothes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGeP27eQ35OwGuL_LlvSoRcV1KzqCk9YRuX4w8oihzd0UntzDyrBOEvlPLdDGi7Y_Xu7BWpG5tRAlshMslzfyk_Ah3LAc4CBBbaEV9KIghQXAKyXkpzajoLmd3xIgTQeznqZCeeS0NGmXd/s1600/20170929_115432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGeP27eQ35OwGuL_LlvSoRcV1KzqCk9YRuX4w8oihzd0UntzDyrBOEvlPLdDGi7Y_Xu7BWpG5tRAlshMslzfyk_Ah3LAc4CBBbaEV9KIghQXAKyXkpzajoLmd3xIgTQeznqZCeeS0NGmXd/s400/20170929_115432.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There IS such a word but it probably isn't what they mean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97ESVzsPdIctXxFonhtC7ZxepauB4HxVC3s1kYauVuBm4kGaan0ow5aDOGMMPAIom5z58G_ixKIz7SUcf2uuvZKiJOCUBQEEsxYx1ZPNl7P2OlAgEKP6cfI4CxkaELD8v0sBGmFKqlk1c/s1600/20170929_190423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97ESVzsPdIctXxFonhtC7ZxepauB4HxVC3s1kYauVuBm4kGaan0ow5aDOGMMPAIom5z58G_ixKIz7SUcf2uuvZKiJOCUBQEEsxYx1ZPNl7P2OlAgEKP6cfI4CxkaELD8v0sBGmFKqlk1c/s400/20170929_190423.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okaaay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdv9DT12MMWNkdLSZLeCkK58aYnc7TkSd70IcJmS3u1E7K1BlUE2_huyQINg3Lw-KSueXXUogJLAxKpbo2R1Mn1AiPG8ZTI5lKul4g6dWaA9kcOb3UFfuIucWoUbd9-CvUfJ-OQBaC8U4/s1600/english.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdv9DT12MMWNkdLSZLeCkK58aYnc7TkSd70IcJmS3u1E7K1BlUE2_huyQINg3Lw-KSueXXUogJLAxKpbo2R1Mn1AiPG8ZTI5lKul4g6dWaA9kcOb3UFfuIucWoUbd9-CvUfJ-OQBaC8U4/s400/english.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes, it's really just gibberish.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And that's a wrap! Japan is one of my favourite holiday destinations - it's unusual and strange but in a comforting way, like a good friend with a quirky personality. It's a land of contradictions. The people are reserved but warm. The latest technological advancements co-exist easily with century-old traditions and customs. People can don kimonos one day and manga outfits the next.<br />
<br />
And of course, the food is simply to die for. If you've never visited the land of the rising sun, I recommend you do so soon.<br />
<br />
Arigato gozaimasu!<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-89215461616628267042017-10-01T10:30:00.000+08:002017-10-02T10:31:12.164+08:00Closing our gastro journey with a burp - Kuromon Ichiba and Dotonbori<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 7 (Fri, 29 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
Our last day in Osaka 😢 In the morning, we took a short walk to Kuromon Ichiba Market, right by Nippombashi station.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSXKGg5NUzbL3YN-xbPhXCkjuxUGNWzgOxTiXJjg0efm1RR3J0aYml8lh7a-9gYzNytXdfgqUdwhS3ZyZlYxudfOgPhuQ1je3oF9OFuW0SmDSlGdDA8TjDMSqJD5fA1lamCMMlMfeBjQb/s1600/IMG_20170929_093958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSXKGg5NUzbL3YN-xbPhXCkjuxUGNWzgOxTiXJjg0efm1RR3J0aYml8lh7a-9gYzNytXdfgqUdwhS3ZyZlYxudfOgPhuQ1je3oF9OFuW0SmDSlGdDA8TjDMSqJD5fA1lamCMMlMfeBjQb/s400/IMG_20170929_093958.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Kuromon Ichiba Market is a fresh food and seafood paradise - a souped up version of Nishiki Market in Kyoto. Everywhere you turn, vendors are selling trays and trays of seafood that they can cook or prepare for you on the spot. If you are a seafood lover like I am, then this is probably as close to food heaven as you can get.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxkpA-9KpbpdPogl6N9JItoQGTMZfDB9n5y6-Jba845mtfAnFHP0UkqH6hJ5FM8TLb0CtV9tsWs7VtehWmABRM85MZGJibQHnrli4bryUBqYAxajw_ttLDfYFtf_xM8IbUOjKHHGDeojF/s400/DSC01948.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxc5jKilU-I_OodOTEdS8yPBzf94ZfwLTakSKm4oZVAJv_HixlDpztVX30tiuJal0xLt1GbHXC-HhWZHr-KNk5dfwvkNhktHbqT18-0HNg_2_H-vjuVW6vniid3rFZmkraKj8jP-8X4sZ/s400/DSC01952.JPG" width="400" /><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8xMo6zBDM_Qo5Rbsg36YUymXNGa2fH97NqCQRXI4Qi4PmP7kaIbEKppHY-9QOP6pjmx999sclL9vCXYbBTfLtC8WPvRPQ_rDcyiZbE2dpswEicUDVwIFTGqcM_YTHlVOKMCd63JQPJeg/s400/DSC02017.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnrltYBH9XDPVpkMXzu2sxKZTIXIG4pimVdLwBJboW7eRYH9vXlHMr52hjnBxhw9_5viL9RcWL0bIWEP5VOaf2sSDHnVaKLVZE-Of2UgKK744aGoj3SrZ_MHV2MVpIDqZB_jNqrp4Uxllg/s400/DSC02016.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<br />
There are many stalls where you can sit down and eat the food you ordered, but we were headed specifically for <a href="http://www.kuromon-sanpei.co.jp/english/?lang=en" target="_blank">Kuromon Sanpei. </a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubqvapo_eUuHzaNGppZmrYoYmYuKhTu9Otcpno0iXIEU6YFXyA5bQK2BwRg91rrZucmOW_lGO16uTSU60iQNkmW-gslUOL3FaHIUedjSCLe-SKiQfec99k8PLd6aw1BOFPdXwHzhSPdri/s1600/IMG_20170929_100143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubqvapo_eUuHzaNGppZmrYoYmYuKhTu9Otcpno0iXIEU6YFXyA5bQK2BwRg91rrZucmOW_lGO16uTSU60iQNkmW-gslUOL3FaHIUedjSCLe-SKiQfec99k8PLd6aw1BOFPdXwHzhSPdri/s400/IMG_20170929_100143.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Kuromon Sanpei is one of the larger stalls, with quite a lot of seating inside. You can pick up one of their many trays of seafood on display or you can order one of their rice bowls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZzh15u9ZuliPJWRGZNKnf4de0gnfOixNodIHDQ2HIXdOcUVBf6_zVzxxFEK3sE9LqjrQnZLFb2RoJgzQL2YYo5IsBbqxlWCFh7X4Jz9DcLwB7H86MbwFS5zXLeVY1TpNyQNQWsGNdk-S/s1600/DSC01956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZzh15u9ZuliPJWRGZNKnf4de0gnfOixNodIHDQ2HIXdOcUVBf6_zVzxxFEK3sE9LqjrQnZLFb2RoJgzQL2YYo5IsBbqxlWCFh7X4Jz9DcLwB7H86MbwFS5zXLeVY1TpNyQNQWsGNdk-S/s400/DSC01956.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We did a combination of both. We ordered three rice bowls:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FNfQijpUNjp6Z0GnwaO35BCSny6QqZ4Cu1yTTOu5IUBsfxfdRx7x7Zu2iGgINyOtbx_-BfXjzlsIBzJE2FLYOR06KNpAo6uXmSKQElEye_MmCY6jR4oyWxGoaEF5l8I9l_dvbgqiV3tF/s1600/DSC01994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6FNfQijpUNjp6Z0GnwaO35BCSny6QqZ4Cu1yTTOu5IUBsfxfdRx7x7Zu2iGgINyOtbx_-BfXjzlsIBzJE2FLYOR06KNpAo6uXmSKQElEye_MmCY6jR4oyWxGoaEF5l8I9l_dvbgqiV3tF/s400/DSC01994.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Special seafood bowl (Y1,500)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7dIgB2p23l3cIpDzHNZB2FXUnbDuIv_Ax5ObHh0tj_s7JI_WAjEp-8LpdaLiTz7-LGN8eD3f_SFN0l-_VOXUkjySduwNc9rdPpjmVL8ojMP502e5OIgRyhToCi3pXv2dLR0sKiGbAPz_/s1600/DSC02004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY7dIgB2p23l3cIpDzHNZB2FXUnbDuIv_Ax5ObHh0tj_s7JI_WAjEp-8LpdaLiTz7-LGN8eD3f_SFN0l-_VOXUkjySduwNc9rdPpjmVL8ojMP502e5OIgRyhToCi3pXv2dLR0sKiGbAPz_/s400/DSC02004.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of today's special - featuring the catch of the day (Y3,000 each)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And a few extra items. Kenneth loves these octopus stuffed with quail's eggs. Very good value here - a pack of 3 for Y300. Other stalls sell them for at least Y200 each.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOCF48NSamQiaD3dH0J0RTQmKM6Cfk9DKXFG4wfakH3VR-JE8ANM468JKIlJJus6e7aQgSreafH_BxsEb0YcXZLiu6cCbZWUVqMFlf7ltRl4X4XjiMfoZvYC0M-RNpwCqscrcTCZYHEN-/s1600/DSC01972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdOCF48NSamQiaD3dH0J0RTQmKM6Cfk9DKXFG4wfakH3VR-JE8ANM468JKIlJJus6e7aQgSreafH_BxsEb0YcXZLiu6cCbZWUVqMFlf7ltRl4X4XjiMfoZvYC0M-RNpwCqscrcTCZYHEN-/s400/DSC01972.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
There's a guy outside the shop who grills some of the seafood for you. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iasffqzcYPGW6t__DQZgMI-rdUKzMGxZNYC3fRp2BDDmz9VLvugbna5plTm_zQ_xXFblay41fyXV6QumUvLXJa0G9gZeYF7gcAFFidJDa0oEZQEmgo-yDzarqv376DhS0eCojmDeY_iv/s1600/DSC02013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1iasffqzcYPGW6t__DQZgMI-rdUKzMGxZNYC3fRp2BDDmz9VLvugbna5plTm_zQ_xXFblay41fyXV6QumUvLXJa0G9gZeYF7gcAFFidJDa0oEZQEmgo-yDzarqv376DhS0eCojmDeY_iv/s400/DSC02013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I saw the lobster and couldn't resist - had to order one. Y1,500.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAuuXpM8XO8UI9PhfFvT1o75nQX8FTN5K3AE15MYDFvDCTx5-zsfK9KnFGaxItyx9cOaKaXrW3JyJUXS3oEGvsFcTwCclo-RhB6NPumQRSkarYfB2Ua_XrUzVm6sYoghtEssapa2uEaPO/s1600/DSC01966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAuuXpM8XO8UI9PhfFvT1o75nQX8FTN5K3AE15MYDFvDCTx5-zsfK9KnFGaxItyx9cOaKaXrW3JyJUXS3oEGvsFcTwCclo-RhB6NPumQRSkarYfB2Ua_XrUzVm6sYoghtEssapa2uEaPO/s400/DSC01966.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
And of course, we had to order their specialty - otoro or fatty tuna belly sushi (Y2,300 for a pack of 4).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzCbv_OAkN2g5UULomoxwa0gyQbtrU5FxwqSX5dxX2vzUssFUr10K_hSJrb-vYQ3kgOLU6MsZfOWzkM3z7H6jjpXa70r5sfC6pPt0i4rgJJJa-zIgFajUKeErE0uYr0AIlQ4zQez-QjdU/s1600/DSC01968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWzCbv_OAkN2g5UULomoxwa0gyQbtrU5FxwqSX5dxX2vzUssFUr10K_hSJrb-vYQ3kgOLU6MsZfOWzkM3z7H6jjpXa70r5sfC6pPt0i4rgJJJa-zIgFajUKeErE0uYr0AIlQ4zQez-QjdU/s400/DSC01968.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Just look at it! The slices of tuna are massive and completely cover the rice. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsVftUVBoMg8Qq_PkkEN0IALuwgtZNqbsK5dg1jMI4J0chOgwqb-NXDwmZCg3GpGlrF5iXtMunSKpkqntniwfG9iwhpd13nJr9SFJxvuRnybI2gokt3_bwHw_kFE1KNwhSa2LwCmO6ZjM/s1600/DSC01978.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsVftUVBoMg8Qq_PkkEN0IALuwgtZNqbsK5dg1jMI4J0chOgwqb-NXDwmZCg3GpGlrF5iXtMunSKpkqntniwfG9iwhpd13nJr9SFJxvuRnybI2gokt3_bwHw_kFE1KNwhSa2LwCmO6ZjM/s400/DSC01978.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As they like to say on Japan Hour, everything was oishii.<br />
<br />
It was a hearty brunch and we were quite full, but we gave in to the temptation to try a few more items as we walked the rest of the market.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDBaMKvgT_KCQ2LEU2a0Lw8kboW_yTnCgIufxJT4cz8zMXLQmYvjGNRTRuEsp8cXhruqAaMUC4Ud_xrwbRH5HhqLT_gSxI6VsBGQjwQItc1j3l6c4WfSg8Xkz4-LeFY0iawvaY5ewBjYZZ/s400/DSC02033.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled large prawn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhguni9yHqjVPs9M2E5ob6FLsSzAGdYAZPqRZ8N_R_vGY-09nyvMM3gpMtMXxTo5EdO7QuAJTA5tx48D9BoQ_C4EWjYWW9LAtYhFZdyqFTjTbm-rgxgjSM7k4mCu6X3pxU5CsrpgMK0J1jr/s400/DSC02045.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sardine tempura </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOufd2_5N1bA1pKYnTkvLa-Kb_zJAuM3cagHtMFUnWSPPHUEPVDbbyZblQAqhb2eOB0lhHcWXv-kLCox7H_6ZkTDOMnwbTsqBWXgjV9Mc6HJm-HkefKJbY-9mEgym2IpU-r69_ks6dJUp7/s400/DSC02048.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJEaJWECBzGSUUw55XrmqrCBGnLBk4XEy_ZbwvD0YzdxuYf4INIcEUNKgRtpVZlRVDk4uIBlxnsktxko-ngHVpV_yJZ-Uj8nl9T8UFNNvaErKpDl_UJJJJG_c_oJ3Jt1LrXq7mjxb8gKM/s400/DSC02051.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled scallops with butter and soy sauce</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQQQ0_eKHkMq-MWQw516D8OTG81l6ZR_APMYsnZMNWV7CPf66P2bhhYuWubTBThUDd2x3YBUEXIGfH6Emy5SeG9Ejly2oS5ELDiRMw0-XP88CjkoGN-Z0KSXplYhxduWEsvCDH7ZVkvG3/s400/DSC02054.JPG" width="400" /></div>
<br />
Since this was our last day in Osaka, we had dedicated the afternoon to shopping at Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori. Shinsaibashi is the main shopping street in Osaka. It's said that some 60,000 people pass through it on weekdays and double that on weekends. It stretches almost 600m end to end, with stores lining both sides of the pedestrian walkway. Orchard Road is an amateur wannabe compared to Shinsaibashi.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBRJOuNb6GOrrUJKgJoG_xpTMw7i7U-nxtq2LVZexWEYz18cA0oYoLnYUcRTYG50k-OTUJihhjp_ycObOv6dD-d_z68pjhacncbIwFxvd8Se9RVYPyQMD1Cm2COc3k6uF1Mu5CQ3LzZIK/s1600/DSC01482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBRJOuNb6GOrrUJKgJoG_xpTMw7i7U-nxtq2LVZexWEYz18cA0oYoLnYUcRTYG50k-OTUJihhjp_ycObOv6dD-d_z68pjhacncbIwFxvd8Se9RVYPyQMD1Cm2COc3k6uF1Mu5CQ3LzZIK/s400/DSC01482.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
However, most of the stores along Shinsaibashi are high end ones or commercial chain stores, eg. Forever 21, Zara, etc - nothing we were interested in. So we kind of wandered around aimlessly. The only store that caught our eye was this one:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU6sYnRFwds_AmroTiS0uNsuhH2C6sai0G_vM5yaprqn-NxSAD7uHCf7Crr9glLOFiYhd8hgsAtyTiribjPgje_DjTm7Ub00c8ueGjZIQXK8_w-RFpLnIv44FnaSfETxw77ZMwtrLrLVk/s1600/DSC02060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrU6sYnRFwds_AmroTiS0uNsuhH2C6sai0G_vM5yaprqn-NxSAD7uHCf7Crr9glLOFiYhd8hgsAtyTiribjPgje_DjTm7Ub00c8ueGjZIQXK8_w-RFpLnIv44FnaSfETxw77ZMwtrLrLVk/s400/DSC02060.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Only the Japanese can have an entire store dedicated to Calbee. You can
find a gazillion types of potato chips and snacks. There's even a sit
down area where you can eat the chips you've bought! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEj8G1ONOt-mmyxt8_Nux4ZgeaVcRGMZRO95yV9gCHf3dO2BIUQa5HuQyHdViO6MphEzVvLN9WA7ogcRMsflxMD8Z1rBrNiVtUhY4ktSCNc2uv9nfmlEvAFEHREYZVXyc7nL04757oGbs-/s1600/DSC02061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEj8G1ONOt-mmyxt8_Nux4ZgeaVcRGMZRO95yV9gCHf3dO2BIUQa5HuQyHdViO6MphEzVvLN9WA7ogcRMsflxMD8Z1rBrNiVtUhY4ktSCNc2uv9nfmlEvAFEHREYZVXyc7nL04757oGbs-/s400/DSC02061.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After a not-so-fruitful trip at Shinsaibashi, we returned to our favourite street - Dotonbori.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZudExK9QaxwUWf8yetySzdUZoSpaS6unFKUnfMiX1ysKo1tF0_wRgUKxaxGEuDVy7x72AGMOm2OF5B7qAJ_r-r2GRDRMlB8V-FzUGk0tQ3X5s-q0B2SZT9SlxJohCNf7LaKAM-hz2QBk/s1600/DSC01219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZudExK9QaxwUWf8yetySzdUZoSpaS6unFKUnfMiX1ysKo1tF0_wRgUKxaxGEuDVy7x72AGMOm2OF5B7qAJ_r-r2GRDRMlB8V-FzUGk0tQ3X5s-q0B2SZT9SlxJohCNf7LaKAM-hz2QBk/s400/DSC01219.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had already walked Dotonbori several times but I'm blogging about it all at once here. Dotonbori is a quirky, uniquely Japanese food street. Everywhere you turn, you see larger-than-life 3D installations fighting for your attention. It's almost like being in cartoon land. <br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1voOYfkAacL5SLOFF3_pzjxS1nsY_1jXQiU5I6KMCF0iMeWsuO08RY86zTfTFjm0flsW5ESjrMw98vxjMYLkJRFrhXoepnueBPROsu0Boiqz-Tx7z2k-Ht0LCrN1QXnfJ0aiCy2hdlnf/s1600/DSC01213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh1voOYfkAacL5SLOFF3_pzjxS1nsY_1jXQiU5I6KMCF0iMeWsuO08RY86zTfTFjm0flsW5ESjrMw98vxjMYLkJRFrhXoepnueBPROsu0Boiqz-Tx7z2k-Ht0LCrN1QXnfJ0aiCy2hdlnf/s400/DSC01213.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragon ramen?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJe1E8GC5yQh_pZKiQ-HGwgJKtBRkGHVAMXbklikrIdImUe52sa3CH19c_-QGzIGvtyF-flRkM_NlSde5SLeJDn1q-11B5yaZZ6tFGvviexUxXUVfX7SotNdilHYhbZOEpXR9YsGf1rB8b/s1600/DSC01215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJe1E8GC5yQh_pZKiQ-HGwgJKtBRkGHVAMXbklikrIdImUe52sa3CH19c_-QGzIGvtyF-flRkM_NlSde5SLeJDn1q-11B5yaZZ6tFGvviexUxXUVfX7SotNdilHYhbZOEpXR9YsGf1rB8b/s400/DSC01215.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Because Spiderman loves scallops too, apparently.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But it is at night that Dotonbori roars to life. There is no subtlety here - everything is bright and loud, with a carnival vibe. The ubiquitous Glico Man leads the charge with a flashing LED background. To me, the Glico Man is vitality, illusion and nostalgia all rolled into one. That seems to sum up the dreamlike quality of Dotonbori.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgNW4yR_udr35ZZwaIi448cok9wbq7kfTr8jSDQ0-EYzcc6SoXWZ4WXfMCGUGHEb3u8GpG7bTaWzgA7c6VItacCTWqQgt002qAlkpuKex1Pkcylsrjk5GDYvW2WiZhNyMhtuYnBXZQaaV/s1600/DSC01898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBgNW4yR_udr35ZZwaIi448cok9wbq7kfTr8jSDQ0-EYzcc6SoXWZ4WXfMCGUGHEb3u8GpG7bTaWzgA7c6VItacCTWqQgt002qAlkpuKex1Pkcylsrjk5GDYvW2WiZhNyMhtuYnBXZQaaV/s400/DSC01898.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBznOjfiryYcb6uV4mY86QKySgKJA9C3hKJ7SHpBiJ7C4nDG9N6ZuAII-cBH5-wteyvgIa49U5DOjxapz5VDNmDPDJhAP7339Zr-l8OxCg0BJSLVS2Jn_7Ln51B4UTJfYDz9ZiFel4cdqM/s1600/DSC01900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBznOjfiryYcb6uV4mY86QKySgKJA9C3hKJ7SHpBiJ7C4nDG9N6ZuAII-cBH5-wteyvgIa49U5DOjxapz5VDNmDPDJhAP7339Zr-l8OxCg0BJSLVS2Jn_7Ln51B4UTJfYDz9ZiFel4cdqM/s400/DSC01900.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Both sides along a canal, hordes of people gather to eat, meet and soak in the atmosphere.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82sY1wBklQbq3k1fAU2twJ9kBUWcLUoweCgFWLZj_7XZpVXEkAMRQP-TUqbm0-EThO91zVuwrMv9Oh9zfFdxt9ZjpL2nCNMSdy3FOLeft8yla-XDq8Ba7hEvJtUk0PGkSOcmVdr7UDZmG/s1600/DSC01904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi82sY1wBklQbq3k1fAU2twJ9kBUWcLUoweCgFWLZj_7XZpVXEkAMRQP-TUqbm0-EThO91zVuwrMv9Oh9zfFdxt9ZjpL2nCNMSdy3FOLeft8yla-XDq8Ba7hEvJtUk0PGkSOcmVdr7UDZmG/s400/DSC01904.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8rScx7ZHzjGZTKH8uKjEeUlBmRhXR0OFEDjspII1vt_fnfuuEokHWbrUQ5dWrZxwZEyzvdZgGzHqJPqSroBTJEmtX0EbVxobORLFtaM23rjdWsgmH09Zf9FDlz5l1nQqTdcugX4FmOWi/s1600/DSC01483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8rScx7ZHzjGZTKH8uKjEeUlBmRhXR0OFEDjspII1vt_fnfuuEokHWbrUQ5dWrZxwZEyzvdZgGzHqJPqSroBTJEmtX0EbVxobORLFtaM23rjdWsgmH09Zf9FDlz5l1nQqTdcugX4FmOWi/s400/DSC01483.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing girls advertising products in shop windows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Being in Dotonbori is a heady experience. You are bombarded by bright billboards, jingles and announcements from loudspeakers, as well as the enticing smells wafting from street vendors grilling seafood and meat. It's a sensory overload...and we love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpZili_Sx4q_2TlguD2npJyFfs6uy427xrd9lACnmdrCoCsFopYPEf6XinRtHYcBGS1TPlk9h_FDpajckbtIgUAqtPyAhs-BmK0Fi0dawQqay4_dsU0_I_mUSuvorI11NqHpJV0kwZlVw/s1600/DSC01466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimpZili_Sx4q_2TlguD2npJyFfs6uy427xrd9lACnmdrCoCsFopYPEf6XinRtHYcBGS1TPlk9h_FDpajckbtIgUAqtPyAhs-BmK0Fi0dawQqay4_dsU0_I_mUSuvorI11NqHpJV0kwZlVw/s400/DSC01466.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9UUFlA1braXAgHApyAwZzk71zEK-JM7o5RNeQrsoMNre7-zOxPTsIMYH8M6H6OZmiN_VruPgGxrdE8qFHS-LdQu4ma_ZbM6DDRO_1zM4FvxDMWnbfLH7kKYi9WPzBc1MzExx_H2247-3/s1600/DSC01534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9UUFlA1braXAgHApyAwZzk71zEK-JM7o5RNeQrsoMNre7-zOxPTsIMYH8M6H6OZmiN_VruPgGxrdE8qFHS-LdQu4ma_ZbM6DDRO_1zM4FvxDMWnbfLH7kKYi9WPzBc1MzExx_H2247-3/s400/DSC01534.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfE6NOwk-cDAi-uK2mQEc1TJ9q6gfBObeH5bN3_HahApnH0f1KiL6LPzXeWjEy77WUivTNr6hyGFcastVuK79snyYOv8Hbd3JoQ1EN91jgTbVgtMgRXyQpzaJ_TY61ixptRljmrF3eA3cd/s1600/DSC01538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfE6NOwk-cDAi-uK2mQEc1TJ9q6gfBObeH5bN3_HahApnH0f1KiL6LPzXeWjEy77WUivTNr6hyGFcastVuK79snyYOv8Hbd3JoQ1EN91jgTbVgtMgRXyQpzaJ_TY61ixptRljmrF3eA3cd/s400/DSC01538.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKWddL9JM7VTWY2VLOVSHVxLaV926Gg_HZxxl3WKhXF79WPSFSTYxdvGruP16QeElVUzCtupJkh9I5lVLqkb2vH3IgGAOFtUxWnv79hNVuYV6hmp8CDd8rEesDMAtB6iIMGkvR1lmqNSg/s1600/DSC01539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxKWddL9JM7VTWY2VLOVSHVxLaV926Gg_HZxxl3WKhXF79WPSFSTYxdvGruP16QeElVUzCtupJkh9I5lVLqkb2vH3IgGAOFtUxWnv79hNVuYV6hmp8CDd8rEesDMAtB6iIMGkvR1lmqNSg/s400/DSC01539.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfE9yaOPaSpr14djk5wkj3lLZCBuVFLGjKWstpNzW98-dQT4SCr0t2VcL3xE8qxEQJ7VFtkPoTyZBD5tXKd7CEAAlLBEBRbRfV1fd5QHfVuUN2gL3KR8QMlJKNNezfgSoJOrbyUW6yAdwA/s1600/DSC01570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfE9yaOPaSpr14djk5wkj3lLZCBuVFLGjKWstpNzW98-dQT4SCr0t2VcL3xE8qxEQJ7VFtkPoTyZBD5tXKd7CEAAlLBEBRbRfV1fd5QHfVuUN2gL3KR8QMlJKNNezfgSoJOrbyUW6yAdwA/s400/DSC01570.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the items Andre wanted to try in Dotonbori was takoyaki (octopus balls), as that's one of Osaka's most famous street foods. The most well-known takoyaki stall in Dotonbori has to be the Osaka Takoyaki Museum, where you can actually make your own takoyaki on the second floor. You can't miss the shop - there's a huge octopus above the awning, with moving tentacles.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0LLL53qhci9bKQfWyn-0CXx8Sti3eI08guM1gEfXfyzMGDxqnggZw80m6t43KdlZwlNzLqz8LDtvyornWn7c2l9lhbCAHNCosTPWq0XDQS0j2lQE6wDnSjhZrB8pIZ7WA1TmmnCt5Xue/s1600/DSC01542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0LLL53qhci9bKQfWyn-0CXx8Sti3eI08guM1gEfXfyzMGDxqnggZw80m6t43KdlZwlNzLqz8LDtvyornWn7c2l9lhbCAHNCosTPWq0XDQS0j2lQE6wDnSjhZrB8pIZ7WA1TmmnCt5Xue/s400/DSC01542.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
No, Andre didn't make his own takoyaki. He preferred to leave it to the professionals.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmodEkyKWa_mMiA6TgnHykQDhxvTww7YbR__hqDaNbj7YMhUAw9v3jM2xx26WPHYh4KE-7qOi2PpAK9ZY2oPxfEaWaScOlSvqlB7lFFtGVhq2WrUgUjGX74SsBENh9oyPdCYZdpQtMV9sv/s1600/DSC01547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmodEkyKWa_mMiA6TgnHykQDhxvTww7YbR__hqDaNbj7YMhUAw9v3jM2xx26WPHYh4KE-7qOi2PpAK9ZY2oPxfEaWaScOlSvqlB7lFFtGVhq2WrUgUjGX74SsBENh9oyPdCYZdpQtMV9sv/s400/DSC01547.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Zjy_8XPjkZ1D1Kf3Js08lEgAxNeIo8GQkJa0TYxAhGL0lo25Bs0_4ifwqemBVBMs1c8m3d4l1g7xVEJ6U9Y-jt6rh-T62XswxjuLSH2jjC91eOVh4BHwrXOW3FAfntinjM64zte64SoD/s1600/DSC01560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Zjy_8XPjkZ1D1Kf3Js08lEgAxNeIo8GQkJa0TYxAhGL0lo25Bs0_4ifwqemBVBMs1c8m3d4l1g7xVEJ6U9Y-jt6rh-T62XswxjuLSH2jjC91eOVh4BHwrXOW3FAfntinjM64zte64SoD/s400/DSC01560.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlmiTWyKA17r3VloTb-LAiHagk5gLlnuxnpY6r1ygp2jSLhS2FRHfiXPjrRowrotQJ6P6ejOwPPxtoN8Jgu6yJkGCH5E-3z7Ap-RCUpqFZYsZRcNBqgDNJz7LlfAiHF6KhHjDOOFLzVKh/s1600/DSC01561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQlmiTWyKA17r3VloTb-LAiHagk5gLlnuxnpY6r1ygp2jSLhS2FRHfiXPjrRowrotQJ6P6ejOwPPxtoN8Jgu6yJkGCH5E-3z7Ap-RCUpqFZYsZRcNBqgDNJz7LlfAiHF6KhHjDOOFLzVKh/s400/DSC01561.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sticky, gooey and delicious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KZRkNgPymcnB4hQa4hhM-vjhKg4cY311F6ew7605BH8b9nZYDdTzH_3HjI9JuGdAPYS21qBU3qt7qktwU482V-CvHVgrWxsZguRSE1_q7sjJBfk6Fm5cwO6ZYECbfaq3HN7Whp1dVLG_/s1600/DSC01563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KZRkNgPymcnB4hQa4hhM-vjhKg4cY311F6ew7605BH8b9nZYDdTzH_3HjI9JuGdAPYS21qBU3qt7qktwU482V-CvHVgrWxsZguRSE1_q7sjJBfk6Fm5cwO6ZYECbfaq3HN7Whp1dVLG_/s400/DSC01563.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, we went for our last dinner in Osaka. (Of course we had space for dinner! What do you mean?) As mentioned in my first post of this trip, I had almost all our meals planned for each day. The reason is simple - there's simply too much good food in Osaka, and only a limited number of meals. We didn't want to waste any of them eating randomly. Also as I said in the first post, we're pigs 🐖.<br />
<br />
This dinner was the only one that was not planned. We decided to try some yakitori as we had yet to eat that during this trip. In one of the alleys close to our hotel, we had come across this Izakaya (Japanese gastro pub) that looked interesting. It doesn't have an English name and we tried to look it up on Google but to no avail. (In case you're interested, it's directly opposite Ten-Ti-Jin ramen shop). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtadqKRAZeWa-FZO6cTViGxqCrDHsdFrQjzpiEeUwdYbNZ60uAWToC4jpJfCO36bCNsIad9fXVUChIbEqolojJFcZXrg7v1YawFWITj0q1LIYEVYix9d_XLr0uJcy90xcm_zw3ctr_fp7u/s1600/DSC02075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtadqKRAZeWa-FZO6cTViGxqCrDHsdFrQjzpiEeUwdYbNZ60uAWToC4jpJfCO36bCNsIad9fXVUChIbEqolojJFcZXrg7v1YawFWITj0q1LIYEVYix9d_XLr0uJcy90xcm_zw3ctr_fp7u/s400/DSC02075.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We checked out the menu on a signboard outside the restaurant and decided to try it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_-gzHckiF4AMsH853B4oQ50keuovnCrA_zNraXA2I1yREY-RBYz0WpZ0XCR8Eh6Cv18kkcf2B_JN4yZ7sghTC3JKMruSbRjk8WHq4gUNd5L6RhXEMpNtBXWBmvtZ3rbM-1gQdaavyj0t/s1600/DSC02077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_-gzHckiF4AMsH853B4oQ50keuovnCrA_zNraXA2I1yREY-RBYz0WpZ0XCR8Eh6Cv18kkcf2B_JN4yZ7sghTC3JKMruSbRjk8WHq4gUNd5L6RhXEMpNtBXWBmvtZ3rbM-1gQdaavyj0t/s400/DSC02077.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We ordered 9 sticks of yakitori and some small plates of food. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DSAB2KtRPF4TCWeKNXOn0sNXnoALWR0m57jOu7a20vErtyWYnBh2qtQiki9Wzh0qObuU6YfGqC-IUNY_LrR2eIvpQ74HN2GeCZQiLDt22I6Z0qX-dubPV6ndf-MMmqKt7P-ukVSI9B93/s1600/DSC02067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DSAB2KtRPF4TCWeKNXOn0sNXnoALWR0m57jOu7a20vErtyWYnBh2qtQiki9Wzh0qObuU6YfGqC-IUNY_LrR2eIvpQ74HN2GeCZQiLDt22I6Z0qX-dubPV6ndf-MMmqKt7P-ukVSI9B93/s400/DSC02067.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potatoes with butter, potato with cheese and karaage (fried chicken)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldHEQ5TyeF9xYw0WmGWf0DFTrKT_YoAGku3zzooUndp3WNJldxRbHVZxY73bwv43ZHg0kuXJs19sjPUCNPRdM9OCryNUP2q_ufLbUYRH0XZemRMHNXCj3uMienlRFmKhd4Sv2Vh-foffh/s1600/DSC02071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgldHEQ5TyeF9xYw0WmGWf0DFTrKT_YoAGku3zzooUndp3WNJldxRbHVZxY73bwv43ZHg0kuXJs19sjPUCNPRdM9OCryNUP2q_ufLbUYRH0XZemRMHNXCj3uMienlRFmKhd4Sv2Vh-foffh/s400/DSC02071.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fried tofu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYywOLou5kxKp_s0X-EU8jjFykQ0mqxX1meoDR295I1gs4hqiGhb6rNr09DBqERkQOXXDaTfwQaB34SpSW-3PDjFGvW0R4-8XI7MPEAYlv_gAZq9hV6hpe0rFSyf-1DyBs-aXi5xC0a1j/s1600/DSC02069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYywOLou5kxKp_s0X-EU8jjFykQ0mqxX1meoDR295I1gs4hqiGhb6rNr09DBqERkQOXXDaTfwQaB34SpSW-3PDjFGvW0R4-8XI7MPEAYlv_gAZq9hV6hpe0rFSyf-1DyBs-aXi5xC0a1j/s400/DSC02069.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beef short rib, pork rib, chicken skin, chicken gizzard, asparagus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It was a noteworthy experience. We were the only foreigners in the restaurant, most of the patrons were there to drink and snack (and smoke, unfortunately). It's really the Japanese equivalent of a pub. We got to try some things for the first time. Chicken skin was a hit - light and crispy. Gizzard, less so - it had a strong taste. Kenneth and Lesley-Anne loved the tofu. The karaage was beautifully crisp and addictive. <br />
<br />
And that marked the end of our mouth-watering culinary journey in Kyoto and Osaka. Oh, unless you count the red bean fish we bought for supper. What do you mean, how did we have room for supper? We're on holiday! 😍<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5wjl1MhDfGADGvGmNNoEJNZicOmAVkrkKcQfnUrJv5BFTq31xaZYGX5Zo2Fm82fFi0UVCPQQpcqoWL3eoX3k8YEjxVwuPH57iqz71tt3NwAY0tVbnVly0sCtj9sRPP15ilgyqHQCFSlN/s1600/DSC02082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI5wjl1MhDfGADGvGmNNoEJNZicOmAVkrkKcQfnUrJv5BFTq31xaZYGX5Zo2Fm82fFi0UVCPQQpcqoWL3eoX3k8YEjxVwuPH57iqz71tt3NwAY0tVbnVly0sCtj9sRPP15ilgyqHQCFSlN/s400/DSC02082.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-19974361926560801012017-09-29T21:30:00.000+08:002017-10-12T10:50:30.292+08:00A-Nara amazing day<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 6 (Thu, 28 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
Day trip to Nara! It's a direct train from Namba station via the Kintetsu-Nara line to Kintetsu-Nara station. The trip takes about 40 mins on the express train. The express train doesn't run as frequently as the local trains, so you might want to check the timetable.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBggb8NbA5wEfz-xa-aA-aAJ6M2C1ULi_zMqVZm02EYsbflWQ5EQQULfpX5Qv-6_4m4qRNK49t3CEN6L_HGlDrnSIR6vpNGdIhnOOQa8sU83Tpx5lSbQt7fnOnQhHbaCF7WuLcFNUzuUeT/s1600/20170928_102050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBggb8NbA5wEfz-xa-aA-aAJ6M2C1ULi_zMqVZm02EYsbflWQ5EQQULfpX5Qv-6_4m4qRNK49t3CEN6L_HGlDrnSIR6vpNGdIhnOOQa8sU83Tpx5lSbQt7fnOnQhHbaCF7WuLcFNUzuUeT/s400/20170928_102050.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We had planned to have brunch in Nara and it was a special arrangement. Initially, we wanted to have lunch at a popular eel restaurant (Edogawa Naramachi) but Andre stumbled upon this lesser-known restaurant called <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g298198-d12146891-Reviews-Terakawa-Nara_Nara_Prefecture_Kinki.html" target="_blank">Terakawa</a> on TripAdvisor that serves soba and small plates of food, tapas style. People have said that the chef goes out of his way to please and cater to individual requests, all at very reasonable prices.<br />
<br />
The restaurant opens only at noon and I had messaged the restaurant on Facebook last week to ask if there was a chance it opened earlier. Quite to my astonishment, the chef replied very quickly and said he would open the restaurant half an hour earlier and reserve a table for me. Talk about great service! He speaks English, since he's worked in Singapore for three years, so communication was easy.<br />
<br />
The restaurant can be a little tricky to find since the road it's on doesn't have any signs. What you need to do is from Kintetsu-Nara station, simply locate the 7-Eleven directly across the road. Walk along Higashimuki-Kita road next to it, right to the end (about 350m), then turn left and you should see Terakawa.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgemiHCPTlZK_Aty1V8ztbuH1pePLS0keqJY89kH5BMzygICgi0vWcl0E3Vape2wianNVMbxqzHoYTTxfh635DkvTRQci_byBxlZK48Ub_J3HC3HHkrLPyHdjeqqzx2ZyV9kgG4ANE0R5VU/s1600/DSC01604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgemiHCPTlZK_Aty1V8ztbuH1pePLS0keqJY89kH5BMzygICgi0vWcl0E3Vape2wianNVMbxqzHoYTTxfh635DkvTRQci_byBxlZK48Ub_J3HC3HHkrLPyHdjeqqzx2ZyV9kgG4ANE0R5VU/s400/DSC01604.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaxlhrYXHZLOCJbm9Rl7PUYqpxgRfh9KdKDU6muNeJFh1cwxhtaqeauVlCZ5WCFLoLAba3MrJrrp0JHXh8jQB2qMd_B_18rNYmA39AQJ-LzBC6Y_yul89OMDU5n_Gp0xX63FxYf_zRVNB/s1600/DSC01598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQaxlhrYXHZLOCJbm9Rl7PUYqpxgRfh9KdKDU6muNeJFh1cwxhtaqeauVlCZ5WCFLoLAba3MrJrrp0JHXh8jQB2qMd_B_18rNYmA39AQJ-LzBC6Y_yul89OMDU5n_Gp0xX63FxYf_zRVNB/s400/DSC01598.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Chef Fumi was there to welcome us and he's basically a one-man operation. He sets the table, waits on us and prepares the food. The settings are all colour-coordinated - so very pretty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuHmbKrVcYsHSPuH1ZJe_tb_HCwh_BM2TqQiEf3WY6S5VsNN8KubOJdUrNRZ5R2CEPSTjsY0VjE1DB_Me2wvqDmjChp4FN4ecjAA4RxarMKeqNVZE0MAKgoC3gZ9QgwAQq5JkbKscFjmR/s1600/DSC01613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnuHmbKrVcYsHSPuH1ZJe_tb_HCwh_BM2TqQiEf3WY6S5VsNN8KubOJdUrNRZ5R2CEPSTjsY0VjE1DB_Me2wvqDmjChp4FN4ecjAA4RxarMKeqNVZE0MAKgoC3gZ9QgwAQq5JkbKscFjmR/s400/DSC01613.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
You can order individual small plates of food, but we opted for the Omakase, which means you leave it to the chef to decide what to serve you, based on his expertise and the daily special. Most Omakase meals cost a bomb but at Terakawa, there are three very affordable options for only Y1,000, Y1,500 or Y2,000 (the higher the price, the better quality the ingredients and number of plates).<br />
<br />
We asked Chef Fumi how much we should order. He recommended two Omakase and two soba sets for the four of us to share. Of course we heeded his advice. He started us off with an appetiser of Edamame beans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1iRLK1mbpOiUrfGdliTGMO6RGtgIxpFs3VHQKA2xbt515hOJ8GR0FSQST8mwuEqvJGn4shCOPS8aLGzBQF9UfSW10tSOxH77fQMRyVv93HLgpX8sUB0b4mSzumS5kOdpw0lHmkLs8KZq/s1600/DSC01615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1iRLK1mbpOiUrfGdliTGMO6RGtgIxpFs3VHQKA2xbt515hOJ8GR0FSQST8mwuEqvJGn4shCOPS8aLGzBQF9UfSW10tSOxH77fQMRyVv93HLgpX8sUB0b4mSzumS5kOdpw0lHmkLs8KZq/s400/DSC01615.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then after some activity in the kitchen, he appeared with this:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGPp1MW5SuB_Jow2pecHyJoK5JkP-4zdSnQVO1nnWQSoMjVVtmjEDZO_-0cnnCXnjNPsS-DLBwU-eh0RKA1jtfjPBOYCTila5-kMLfI6Y9EUaW3RqB95QZSVz-mDOCs8meNPCm2pBQlhb/s1600/DSC01622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirGPp1MW5SuB_Jow2pecHyJoK5JkP-4zdSnQVO1nnWQSoMjVVtmjEDZO_-0cnnCXnjNPsS-DLBwU-eh0RKA1jtfjPBOYCTila5-kMLfI6Y9EUaW3RqB95QZSVz-mDOCs8meNPCm2pBQlhb/s400/DSC01622.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's so utterly gorgeous! Because we were sharing one set between two people, Chef Fumi repeated the plates. This arrangement is just one of the Y2,000 sets. Each set had double of these plates:<br />
<br />
1) Japanese cucumbers with miso paste + Japanese fish cake<br />
2) Potato salad with tiny shrimp<br />
3) Yellow tail sushi<br />
4) Home-made tofu<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijAtKvgRT4BKhy7a_Bs5zv3M0pFE9_7pAUa_pGNjCOwmCf5F7_bxsymhMQdNRv3IAISMSOC3r7tS5bn-u8ZnJzw1JUSaFR0Qo96Y-qQlQ561t-5U9iAcDeX5_GtOumyKWdO4CM7a4I1u-I/s1600/DSC01620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijAtKvgRT4BKhy7a_Bs5zv3M0pFE9_7pAUa_pGNjCOwmCf5F7_bxsymhMQdNRv3IAISMSOC3r7tS5bn-u8ZnJzw1JUSaFR0Qo96Y-qQlQ561t-5U9iAcDeX5_GtOumyKWdO4CM7a4I1u-I/s400/DSC01620.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The food was downright delicious. It was a feast for the stomach as well as the eyes. All the flavours complemented each other perfectly. I usually don't like tofu but this tofu was unlike anything I'd every tasted. It was gooey and delicate, almost like Chinese carrot cake, without that beany taste I dislike.<br />
<br />
After that, we were served the soba. When it arrived, I was taken aback by the amount. Each of us received a heaping plate of soba and a full bowl of soup. I confirmed with Chef Fumi that this was only 2 portions and he nodded, but admitted shyly, "I put a little more".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybsAs2ncIGeSyKWV04J5ttrxJc2p174fFVCFPah9ai43p2ibn9KwuRAtjPlnWCHeWqZjvaVR1DFtq50Q1NUiyfphGGtkOx3-wRwZk0tKhQe1C3IQqIst0nJWKu-DN_1h7OcOU6Pb-XvbL/s1600/DSC01629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybsAs2ncIGeSyKWV04J5ttrxJc2p174fFVCFPah9ai43p2ibn9KwuRAtjPlnWCHeWqZjvaVR1DFtq50Q1NUiyfphGGtkOx3-wRwZk0tKhQe1C3IQqIst0nJWKu-DN_1h7OcOU6Pb-XvbL/s400/DSC01629.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This man is generous beyond words. Just look at that soba! The soup that we were supposed to dip the soba in was incredibly rich, with tender pieces of chicken. Chef Fumi came by and scraped a little yuzu rind into the soup, which gave it a flavourful tang. Delicious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQP3QjZDkix-IlYmw9OUx0_UFu-VGRJTzhXRfFdloA8-HOFtJuZswhrhqQvVUsd7-Cu92qldyPaXopE9zjYIEttSE1s-zvzKZJTQ3pNl2NHVNYV9uuHToEsOIM1pkQITriARea7O3MJcA/s1600/DSC01630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTQP3QjZDkix-IlYmw9OUx0_UFu-VGRJTzhXRfFdloA8-HOFtJuZswhrhqQvVUsd7-Cu92qldyPaXopE9zjYIEttSE1s-zvzKZJTQ3pNl2NHVNYV9uuHToEsOIM1pkQITriARea7O3MJcA/s400/DSC01630.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
When we had finished the noodles, Chef Fumi asked if we wanted some rice, as it can be dunked in the remaining broth for steamy Japanese-style rice porridge. Unfortunately, we were too stuffed even though the suggestion sounded wonderful.<br />
<br />
All of us agreed that among the wonderful meals we've enjoyed in Kyoto and Osaka, this easily ranks one of the highest. And it only cost us Y5,600 (about S$70)! What a scrumptious experience. I highly recommend this to anyone who's planning on visiting Nara. Support Chef Fumi!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUdRcBU3ld8bObE2RDHI4ibOD-9HF3pBcgDH0MkcezN7whRhoUi_7ZDEmZLV2nFr9ux0bONdve_6JmzeQfndeDRjjf7cLwXRJ4JXAmGzDFpqPCH_D3gtmG2zTTely6BiI3B-kwU3Guq0/s1600/DSC01637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KUdRcBU3ld8bObE2RDHI4ibOD-9HF3pBcgDH0MkcezN7whRhoUi_7ZDEmZLV2nFr9ux0bONdve_6JmzeQfndeDRjjf7cLwXRJ4JXAmGzDFpqPCH_D3gtmG2zTTely6BiI3B-kwU3Guq0/s400/DSC01637.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Chef Fumi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="extended-address"><br /></span>
<span class="extended-address">After lunch, we staggered out the restaurant to burn off some of the calories. Very quickly, we encountered the famous Nara sacred deer. They're everywhere and there are deer crossing signs all along the main roads.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXlc0w6LqIcz7saHIPFGFRgR_bEOFzKoWW0iHVBS7hsAN5qG6D3-Tfz-Vn9s2I4YF-WKVMW6dMDQMKqjTeiNFbeVl-_1Rz_-5G8V4k9kzocbnbjQp-nwCf_saeONVGBl7e905JxgIPifw/s1600/DSC01689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAXlc0w6LqIcz7saHIPFGFRgR_bEOFzKoWW0iHVBS7hsAN5qG6D3-Tfz-Vn9s2I4YF-WKVMW6dMDQMKqjTeiNFbeVl-_1Rz_-5G8V4k9kzocbnbjQp-nwCf_saeONVGBl7e905JxgIPifw/s400/DSC01689.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyT3qAx63XLMvvbF80d157EcNqSm1Gc2namQOA9qvf23nvj2aDst3Q0ZtZBsVobyxOUHgRlzaDgt7vT1Zor1bvhozVXJ7pC0qf0qx7zTd0w2YE3GTypwjXsPrpSVGS8uITIQY-vji2Wyk/s1600/DSC01833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyT3qAx63XLMvvbF80d157EcNqSm1Gc2namQOA9qvf23nvj2aDst3Q0ZtZBsVobyxOUHgRlzaDgt7vT1Zor1bvhozVXJ7pC0qf0qx7zTd0w2YE3GTypwjXsPrpSVGS8uITIQY-vji2Wyk/s400/DSC01833.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoik9tSHnXuLLe5IrcSYpAOZ6x60JZ7ToDgGN58hFN3WhSjHiQKWxMx55yYyVDcQZo5K1Ur5lHFq31jN7Qj92w4rEo0yuQS9-OGkRoLx4doA3EEejjITm0nGlpajwVIox-TpdiYN8NJdN/s1600/IMG_20170928_130254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoik9tSHnXuLLe5IrcSYpAOZ6x60JZ7ToDgGN58hFN3WhSjHiQKWxMx55yYyVDcQZo5K1Ur5lHFq31jN7Qj92w4rEo0yuQS9-OGkRoLx4doA3EEejjITm0nGlpajwVIox-TpdiYN8NJdN/s400/IMG_20170928_130254.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxowyVaQ_JJoPak2GYLg3BuBmUeJIdTaTZnBwoMOVuh_WIvRwfL_BqpqJY7PgUGhYflAKujmyM56lSpk5vHmDrT-oblD5MxtuHhyRoxbEZHxnx7qDyuaNa4x63TOsUhNlEYBshpRsoPqi/s1600/IMG_20170928_131336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCxowyVaQ_JJoPak2GYLg3BuBmUeJIdTaTZnBwoMOVuh_WIvRwfL_BqpqJY7PgUGhYflAKujmyM56lSpk5vHmDrT-oblD5MxtuHhyRoxbEZHxnx7qDyuaNa4x63TOsUhNlEYBshpRsoPqi/s400/IMG_20170928_131336.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer selfie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRvGqxLGxOn8uPzu4U8-gxFZNL4CrKba7HB9q2BW_vwKOcGu-w2HCWskbo2wCHqKAKCDLFU1qO-agxIFd91oNsyW1gj_DZDtmrtTSXYaTeQ9sVWI5siqd8pZnvtjeh0XmvOpK-ixs9aCk/s1600/IMG_20170928_135515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1440" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRvGqxLGxOn8uPzu4U8-gxFZNL4CrKba7HB9q2BW_vwKOcGu-w2HCWskbo2wCHqKAKCDLFU1qO-agxIFd91oNsyW1gj_DZDtmrtTSXYaTeQ9sVWI5siqd8pZnvtjeh0XmvOpK-ixs9aCk/s400/IMG_20170928_135515.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer selfie 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Andre decided to buy some deer crackers to feed the deer. Know that the minute you do that, deer will start following you like bees to honey. It's quite hilarious to see some people shrieking the minute they realise that they're surrounded by hungry deer, some more aggressive than others. Running does NOT help. The deer will chew on your plastic bag or bag straps if they think you have a tasty treat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjoN18j9Hr_u0lJazNBG6FdvhOTlJXq-fOe0jHKThZMW_6YY1ixlctWm7LbwfTSkJKQ4sO5YvrhMAY2WRzWvHAa6udc0D1HNiFLfu2sm64ESI3_yhpzjMg3s1y03U7BQEwRmB1ABqBQW4/s1600/DSC01836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjoN18j9Hr_u0lJazNBG6FdvhOTlJXq-fOe0jHKThZMW_6YY1ixlctWm7LbwfTSkJKQ4sO5YvrhMAY2WRzWvHAa6udc0D1HNiFLfu2sm64ESI3_yhpzjMg3s1y03U7BQEwRmB1ABqBQW4/s400/DSC01836.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Guess what, the tales of bowing deer at Nara are true! (They head butt too). Just take a look.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='400' height='332' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxod0BFHXyvTmjoDs5JX__seQLTYxgxgr0MK6DLsv4855dm0BrsAw1rFMCKfxVcP3sooJ2nhKbVNCJEbvP6Sg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
After that en-deer-ing experience, we walked on to Todai-ji Temple. This is one of the main temples in Nara and we were blown away by the scale. This is the gate:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhys4HkiyJha3aH_tcK35dGFpm0u3N9awwWm4GNtD_mhnmmYapVN4Qj3nK4DyC4ogoOnSuwRSiAdA6ad4rMn4QdV6uKh561AZj30ujIq8yZSpK6pQ-z9w6CmDLjVduev5Bt4X2GtLQjt_pe/s1600/DSC01697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhys4HkiyJha3aH_tcK35dGFpm0u3N9awwWm4GNtD_mhnmmYapVN4Qj3nK4DyC4ogoOnSuwRSiAdA6ad4rMn4QdV6uKh561AZj30ujIq8yZSpK6pQ-z9w6CmDLjVduev5Bt4X2GtLQjt_pe/s400/DSC01697.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
And this is the entrance to the Big Buddha Hall. Note its size in comparison to the people.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyE3cgpBirfVEDtJ8mTZwLdExj-Ktr0ApHfcDpcHErTPRGj1Z9NMc_fu08FzKouLMbFT9EK65SJaqW4SjhCe3tsLfB6WG3EFpa6q8wp06iALx93fYyKnob1ugMzq_FBDgTwI9GEa4K6BmP/s1600/DSC01700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyE3cgpBirfVEDtJ8mTZwLdExj-Ktr0ApHfcDpcHErTPRGj1Z9NMc_fu08FzKouLMbFT9EK65SJaqW4SjhCe3tsLfB6WG3EFpa6q8wp06iALx93fYyKnob1ugMzq_FBDgTwI9GEa4K6BmP/s400/DSC01700.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSu9dsZyOZIuSgsIKp6MDLs9XyOxVcnF859z-6tHCW84CnBb8DIzx278BXlo8kfXqqiMH_evLjqZIsVGNzKSAK4126ghuA-GJQf3nm2P3izA55TcQZ7N4M4jiO3DB7wmWaRkTbS-QlqWdE/s1600/DSC01706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSu9dsZyOZIuSgsIKp6MDLs9XyOxVcnF859z-6tHCW84CnBb8DIzx278BXlo8kfXqqiMH_evLjqZIsVGNzKSAK4126ghuA-GJQf3nm2P3izA55TcQZ7N4M4jiO3DB7wmWaRkTbS-QlqWdE/s400/DSC01706.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzxDqea6kpx38-YDmWTRePuE8r-f6PF2KMbbVG63Nl6s97A548QlN6WCUueYOgNuZRYw-14-efGWHL6WCpk5lOBqZjG5scmw224wv3p1i1HO7Lf84s2gAGR2RBR-PxyTbw48R2AWWXR_G/s1600/DSC01719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCzxDqea6kpx38-YDmWTRePuE8r-f6PF2KMbbVG63Nl6s97A548QlN6WCUueYOgNuZRYw-14-efGWHL6WCpk5lOBqZjG5scmw224wv3p1i1HO7Lf84s2gAGR2RBR-PxyTbw48R2AWWXR_G/s400/DSC01719.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
You enter the humungous gates and the first thing you see is the Great Buddha (Daibutsu). To give you an idea of how large the statue is, the length of its hand is 2.56 metres.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG23h8rcFGSSinubIcAXYhnSwcTrpnhFNxq74A6izsYxutNtW-xgr5z7Cd26cAxd7uOV0CcSfSZdFhV5m9kNT9OaVcdZ-IXGqcQ3aSowNt6kvyKxdFdB9TTPWw6UuXqhxc1aaOinbXkry/s1600/DSC01727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG23h8rcFGSSinubIcAXYhnSwcTrpnhFNxq74A6izsYxutNtW-xgr5z7Cd26cAxd7uOV0CcSfSZdFhV5m9kNT9OaVcdZ-IXGqcQ3aSowNt6kvyKxdFdB9TTPWw6UuXqhxc1aaOinbXkry/s400/DSC01727.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCI9MKjqPutzInhldTWi1SFnfVO1o_GmzH37gDIXBcP0XJLMn2Im7GU8cr04lR0tdq9JCwH3YWIQgYwg4yP2SRgRiPqjEBYZcTZUsCyTiStwi9lmFe3S_dwoHSL05Gki1G8Kv-sbWeaTO/s1600/DSC01738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCI9MKjqPutzInhldTWi1SFnfVO1o_GmzH37gDIXBcP0XJLMn2Im7GU8cr04lR0tdq9JCwH3YWIQgYwg4yP2SRgRiPqjEBYZcTZUsCyTiStwi9lmFe3S_dwoHSL05Gki1G8Kv-sbWeaTO/s400/DSC01738.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0mLwsIALMtxBjjqHLU0Xj3z4MOUagqlH7VNK2HKloe0SdFnr01TExnI0atUxB1Uzf5ORY_cesLWBXqEuGrGe2h8tEusKiTKeZoDkI5z5SCq9JTbLbpRP9kKHfmdB2gDgl7Tn8B-wPPQU/s1600/DSC01748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0mLwsIALMtxBjjqHLU0Xj3z4MOUagqlH7VNK2HKloe0SdFnr01TExnI0atUxB1Uzf5ORY_cesLWBXqEuGrGe2h8tEusKiTKeZoDkI5z5SCq9JTbLbpRP9kKHfmdB2gDgl7Tn8B-wPPQU/s400/DSC01748.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We decided not to pay to visit the Todai-ji museum and instead, walked to the Yoshiki-en Garden. This is free for foreigners.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOHHIBSUWiBPMgpeOFM43qXSdrWyht_EStOYOn0tkaSEFbtBwMXbjtFnVIfPMIfqSH0Vwusyo5ieAnvMLD7pvPgTESBjNvvdxsD8cFKts-iBSs1-h8BlPHYHiEBDWaqTf-G03Xl3eC9At/s1600/DSC01816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOHHIBSUWiBPMgpeOFM43qXSdrWyht_EStOYOn0tkaSEFbtBwMXbjtFnVIfPMIfqSH0Vwusyo5ieAnvMLD7pvPgTESBjNvvdxsD8cFKts-iBSs1-h8BlPHYHiEBDWaqTf-G03Xl3eC9At/s400/DSC01816.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We were expecting something similar to what we saw at Nijo-jo Castle and Osaka Castle, but this was waaaaay better. There's a pond garden, a moss garden and a flower garden. The entire grounds are absolutely stunning. Every corner looked like something out of a postcard, we had to stop just to soak in the beauty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkifrzeKwgXEax3SQekYm4Yv0a6oSB7u8P1GoeHsAexRZYPPPHF6wQzWc5fC5hoggWwCZEkniWW1YCUi94t4qpByvWtXw-2LdnDIo4WN9UT2159sCFU6R2mDTw8nY-kYF3r5D4xww6gH02/s1600/DSC01776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkifrzeKwgXEax3SQekYm4Yv0a6oSB7u8P1GoeHsAexRZYPPPHF6wQzWc5fC5hoggWwCZEkniWW1YCUi94t4qpByvWtXw-2LdnDIo4WN9UT2159sCFU6R2mDTw8nY-kYF3r5D4xww6gH02/s400/DSC01776.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebflYsDdNtGbjA7Mq4EHj_QF9oPFdr2bwsoPp0QpqWZf29YJH2l71Vz8l0BZLO34-5QPs-O4niurP4giljUBx5an3O4d4QKam1OaBVEP7zGX5ofCTWHpbwfSpRLtjS_d3-uO_Tc3GP1OD/s1600/DSC01786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebflYsDdNtGbjA7Mq4EHj_QF9oPFdr2bwsoPp0QpqWZf29YJH2l71Vz8l0BZLO34-5QPs-O4niurP4giljUBx5an3O4d4QKam1OaBVEP7zGX5ofCTWHpbwfSpRLtjS_d3-uO_Tc3GP1OD/s400/DSC01786.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirR8cEquOMad0MJ5nQzYbGH-YNmuWGCNcOtaGltB3wB78tm1-DMxBkbt5-14vmACRVWL2b661OaX-M7ts2P8ywwoTGTZVcwGrn3zeQRiac-v-9uxeAcQr9UP45BCT95_9dgwTXYefcFD-l/s1600/DSC01793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirR8cEquOMad0MJ5nQzYbGH-YNmuWGCNcOtaGltB3wB78tm1-DMxBkbt5-14vmACRVWL2b661OaX-M7ts2P8ywwoTGTZVcwGrn3zeQRiac-v-9uxeAcQr9UP45BCT95_9dgwTXYefcFD-l/s400/DSC01793.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbDvxeqb8iB_dzCu7AaKRW1YgoYUU6pdMyEcjLs7pkAdXwc-vrNBmUH9hDvE-14A4IBXkO50VO_AxiBRJtxrhV28Yex99XL-fDQCGT4VoKQb_EU0NAwQVeJZEA2tiXleb3KzQ4XcP4euc/s1600/DSC01801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbDvxeqb8iB_dzCu7AaKRW1YgoYUU6pdMyEcjLs7pkAdXwc-vrNBmUH9hDvE-14A4IBXkO50VO_AxiBRJtxrhV28Yex99XL-fDQCGT4VoKQb_EU0NAwQVeJZEA2tiXleb3KzQ4XcP4euc/s400/DSC01801.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8OyAzxbPs3bGYm2CXaHuc9QA3KKmXgXy_0Hvkc3MbD4DWR8q2QMQXzOBy6NynnbBLKmG4Ni796jlIBhlLiJU8rNlsDFOuZsbNxLHFi7M9bL_HVCT8wqo283qJkepACLq04HLcE8Hxxi-8/s1600/DSC01812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8OyAzxbPs3bGYm2CXaHuc9QA3KKmXgXy_0Hvkc3MbD4DWR8q2QMQXzOBy6NynnbBLKmG4Ni796jlIBhlLiJU8rNlsDFOuZsbNxLHFi7M9bL_HVCT8wqo283qJkepACLq04HLcE8Hxxi-8/s400/DSC01812.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This was by far the most gorgeous garden we've seen on this trip, and Todai-ji Temple the most impressive temple. So Nara is definitely well worth a visit.<br />
<br />
Then it's another 40-minute ride back to Namba station where dinner awaits us at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g298566-d3752279-Reviews-Hanamaruken_Namba_Houzenji-Osaka_Osaka_Prefecture_Kinki.html" target="_blank">Hanamaruken Ramen</a>. We knew we wanted to eat ramen on this trip, and Ichiran is usually the hot favourite, but we had already eaten at Ichiran in Hong Kong, so decided to try something else. Hanamaruken came up on quite a few blogs - it's a 24-hour ramen restaurant very close to our hotel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbXgbjtkI9i9_YTY8yn5rXUsF1V-4w8XBlmiKRo8mPfXnjNOnKAS4aGoHP59rvb13Ow3nV8TEVWz3QfMkC4FoUKjNKw1SMxEbom9-1o3N3kBNa7Hc2NAsjMrCQ5MEVGmXCGNhrcT9Vra7J/s1600/DSC01882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbXgbjtkI9i9_YTY8yn5rXUsF1V-4w8XBlmiKRo8mPfXnjNOnKAS4aGoHP59rvb13Ow3nV8TEVWz3QfMkC4FoUKjNKw1SMxEbom9-1o3N3kBNa7Hc2NAsjMrCQ5MEVGmXCGNhrcT9Vra7J/s400/DSC01882.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Their specialties are the pork rib ramen and Happiness ramen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e1pVvOpwz4EVHndE8hVtvXQfaQQdPIfzEsM76TfrdEbAhcMnOLbNUH6TiyhwkauXXfoTdiLt5tYrNN545Qn1B5MGWddE9GM0TuV3OpNgHPiS-zVBrrkWvPoH1GBdfYisGd-AC1S3bmig/s1600/DSC01856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2e1pVvOpwz4EVHndE8hVtvXQfaQQdPIfzEsM76TfrdEbAhcMnOLbNUH6TiyhwkauXXfoTdiLt5tYrNN545Qn1B5MGWddE9GM0TuV3OpNgHPiS-zVBrrkWvPoH1GBdfYisGd-AC1S3bmig/s400/DSC01856.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFRO-4hgrLUhuDLSHPNGSllvZJFxLK2xVxonQ8gsF92dnozsSupqvyfVrBaNarYjgdwgCfgtTBIXAvJ-rNsEu8bzRblKz9Ec_fMoccEMDynSXPaJ0kkIgfxWo-QPF64gMN0tE_Dx3FMKX/s1600/DSC01866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVFRO-4hgrLUhuDLSHPNGSllvZJFxLK2xVxonQ8gsF92dnozsSupqvyfVrBaNarYjgdwgCfgtTBIXAvJ-rNsEu8bzRblKz9Ec_fMoccEMDynSXPaJ0kkIgfxWo-QPF64gMN0tE_Dx3FMKX/s400/DSC01866.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happiness ramen - the seaweed comes with writing!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd7f2ysii5dVj299aLQWnX91BiEIMMDWi7aTMCraMxW5yNt4ABM3eS32J43Kiel8TjwZMLrAJsKwibZrhKPrbw19icuDVLWw7fzO0KChsGL2OjTTypAWmdAo5EFVqpxOMNNAbCj8kpBuX/s1600/DSC01871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSd7f2ysii5dVj299aLQWnX91BiEIMMDWi7aTMCraMxW5yNt4ABM3eS32J43Kiel8TjwZMLrAJsKwibZrhKPrbw19icuDVLWw7fzO0KChsGL2OjTTypAWmdAo5EFVqpxOMNNAbCj8kpBuX/s400/DSC01871.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pork rib ramen with a massive rib</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our verdict? The broth and egg at Ichiran are better, but the pork rib at Hanamaruken is pretty spectacular. It's fall-off-the-bone tender and very well marinated. Kenneth, who doesn't love ramen, tried a piece of the pork rib and immediately ordered it with rice (that dish doesn't exist on the menu, by the way. The chef did it just for Kenneth!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT3ijfNi2lkqrOEy1E7AiLo7EZcfQkAo3wGD7kUiaEbVlEG02cBLG5aC8spoegL5n6InUFZfi2AsEdkUKaery54vVO_hopU7arGi4K7AGmPGEsT6CsACT9PXrz1kHKNPGIZK61FKWK4Ha/s1600/DSC01878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT3ijfNi2lkqrOEy1E7AiLo7EZcfQkAo3wGD7kUiaEbVlEG02cBLG5aC8spoegL5n6InUFZfi2AsEdkUKaery54vVO_hopU7arGi4K7AGmPGEsT6CsACT9PXrz1kHKNPGIZK61FKWK4Ha/s400/DSC01878.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally, we ended the day with dessert. We had spotted this shop a few steps away, on the same street as our hotel, which sold the ubiquitous fish waffle with red bean filling. It's a very traditional Japanese snack that you seldom see nowadays.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2Uo-ZBcnnrlkf6zY875Vb9yBk_xmmmgEKLWVDiMZcn9Oed-7BloCMX2FqlpGM-5VX9N9WM-UuIJB94o6JSXCoAYfSKZnxrF0Ry4fp6y0CLBNTLBtaJXrQPb8GIfG1QO1GzPzQzcXbfau/s1600/DSC01907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2Uo-ZBcnnrlkf6zY875Vb9yBk_xmmmgEKLWVDiMZcn9Oed-7BloCMX2FqlpGM-5VX9N9WM-UuIJB94o6JSXCoAYfSKZnxrF0Ry4fp6y0CLBNTLBtaJXrQPb8GIfG1QO1GzPzQzcXbfau/s400/DSC01907.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The guy makes it individually, expertly adding the batter and filling, and turning each waffle pan.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oU7oLqasFKZrFEVh75M5v1dTpXM1m4Y5C_fOe7QMUebP_bKB01rjfClGZAyP99g6LMbhwQuV1uXwPpyhMRE0SATLEx2o5pLAb-QhwGPH-xZJ1h4Q8hTLLwE382pAeIcWGBUOzgS8v_pC/s1600/DSC01915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oU7oLqasFKZrFEVh75M5v1dTpXM1m4Y5C_fOe7QMUebP_bKB01rjfClGZAyP99g6LMbhwQuV1uXwPpyhMRE0SATLEx2o5pLAb-QhwGPH-xZJ1h4Q8hTLLwE382pAeIcWGBUOzgS8v_pC/s400/DSC01915.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRnnsTdjVQJZWnvpEAwO5_JZaiQaCfeiyWy1Jm1zYUhPNZmI1o67ybAHrSjz4oTMATTobdbIPzcdIuT_60mVtHECnRijS4QedFCByWT79W1bUiUjUwnzrsTtyWruqsBaIYYBDhCvzFIuS/s1600/DSC01919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRnnsTdjVQJZWnvpEAwO5_JZaiQaCfeiyWy1Jm1zYUhPNZmI1o67ybAHrSjz4oTMATTobdbIPzcdIuT_60mVtHECnRijS4QedFCByWT79W1bUiUjUwnzrsTtyWruqsBaIYYBDhCvzFIuS/s400/DSC01919.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
For a mere Y180, you get a fantastically crisp snack bursting with red bean. So addictive. So satisfying.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jRgk9sziSaXHRpwiaBZ9zaWFspuBrNJHD3VSRentGXGaAVZMN0YXCNvKrP6zwMc55t38VPYMliWn9qzFOTtG5zM1xzY4bYr8k_fx3IFQRwZRa4L-FdBK-7eiLkB-QWu49-cSAqfOIlXs/s1600/DSC01934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1jRgk9sziSaXHRpwiaBZ9zaWFspuBrNJHD3VSRentGXGaAVZMN0YXCNvKrP6zwMc55t38VPYMliWn9qzFOTtG5zM1xzY4bYr8k_fx3IFQRwZRa4L-FdBK-7eiLkB-QWu49-cSAqfOIlXs/s400/DSC01934.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-31305290341677574032017-09-28T22:00:00.000+08:002017-09-30T20:24:52.517+08:00Kani, sushi, cheese tarts and oh yes, a castle too!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 5 (Wed, 27 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
Time to leave Kyoto! We travelled from <a href="https://www.kyotostation.com/traveling-from-kyoto-to-osaka/" target="_blank">Kyoto station to Osaka station</a> via the JR Kyoto Line. Remember to take the special rapid train from platform 4 or 5, as that takes only 29 minutes. No need to buy special tickets, just use your ICOCA card. From Osaka station, we changed to the subway Midosuji Line to Namba station, which is where our hotel is.<br />
<br />
I'd searched for a hotel near Namba station as it has direct transport to Kansai Airport and more importantly, it's near Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, which are the main food and shopping streets in Osaka. In the end, I booked two twin rooms at <a href="http://www.redroofplus.jp/en/" target="_blank">Red Roof Plus Namba Hotel</a>, which is a 4-minute walk from Dotonbori. Getting to the hotel is very easy. There is an underground walkway lined with shops and restaurants called Namba Walk, that stretches from Namba station to Nipponbashi station. There are exit points throughout Namba Walk and Red Roof Plus is just a few metres away from Exit 26.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBkoUPbyA17EhF79hJUInIEcX_GtX-U9O0wr0UuMpAgyVwoNzTYYEIXKLtkdxOPZIJTG4QBGfh2g0gbEq1CDhcx9az4GIdtwsGZ5itRcgkjl8d7A8_XSxHJPam3BIBACWJa5UuIhSRT9l/s1600/DSC01851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBkoUPbyA17EhF79hJUInIEcX_GtX-U9O0wr0UuMpAgyVwoNzTYYEIXKLtkdxOPZIJTG4QBGfh2g0gbEq1CDhcx9az4GIdtwsGZ5itRcgkjl8d7A8_XSxHJPam3BIBACWJa5UuIhSRT9l/s400/DSC01851.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
The hotel is a no-frills one, and its entrance is small and easily missed. However, it was recently renovated and the rooms are super modern and comfortable, with all the amenities you typically find in higher class hotels. The twin room is a very reasonable size and there's a separate shower stall and toilet. We paid S$135 per room before taxes, a very good price considering the hotel's location.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3rspfnDfBij2mbjKDs_xflAlSGV2o7lEwz3VXAf_61xLG43RhCMcOyKkeT2Q-EjosCAB5d351kZDH8VO9CUARQlrbjPfyNmF02pn8tGP4zdjfR-X1BTc3Blew1lRAOEr2k_Hh77lfZ6l/s1600/DSC01591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3rspfnDfBij2mbjKDs_xflAlSGV2o7lEwz3VXAf_61xLG43RhCMcOyKkeT2Q-EjosCAB5d351kZDH8VO9CUARQlrbjPfyNmF02pn8tGP4zdjfR-X1BTc3Blew1lRAOEr2k_Hh77lfZ6l/s400/DSC01591.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVK0phKuAW7h6-ywAKJ_NMllJG1SE-ZHTOiGqdSv7XHiPsL5E0RCfHCq7suE8r-8T8xUeLBNYZo8IkqoFTcAxo0_q56sDeNmMNNFWYpK9oD2WdKOkSDaznhgyjziyBhpxyZG6rKg1MqYv/s1600/DSC01588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVK0phKuAW7h6-ywAKJ_NMllJG1SE-ZHTOiGqdSv7XHiPsL5E0RCfHCq7suE8r-8T8xUeLBNYZo8IkqoFTcAxo0_q56sDeNmMNNFWYpK9oD2WdKOkSDaznhgyjziyBhpxyZG6rKg1MqYv/s400/DSC01588.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
I had made reservations for lunch at Dotonbori's famous crab restaurant - Kani Doraku. They have three branches along Dotonbori alone and I could only get reservations for the Higashimise (East branch), even though I tried booking more than a week before.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hbP-k6KW_lX1zttC5vSmoD7ggwN4H3NkIKC13dEItUW54aw0-MIHHm4ikBUj_r5zFpzLGKMxRDcZz3FMn7lwxbWmHHlNT-v948j0SV649OP6MSNj-FQKmiLnfmJaobkz5bCbBpVuZjBN/s1600/DSC01225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hbP-k6KW_lX1zttC5vSmoD7ggwN4H3NkIKC13dEItUW54aw0-MIHHm4ikBUj_r5zFpzLGKMxRDcZz3FMn7lwxbWmHHlNT-v948j0SV649OP6MSNj-FQKmiLnfmJaobkz5bCbBpVuZjBN/s400/DSC01225.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Kani Doraku is popular for its crab multi-course meals. They can be quite pricey but are more affordable during for lunch. We ordered two sets - the Sumire and Kikyo sets, as well as a few ala carte dishes.<br />
<br />
What we didn't realise was that the sets were served one dish at a time, which made lunch a drawn-out two hour event. The steamed crab rice in claypots was brought to the table first with a sign that said it would take 40 minutes to cook, and we were not to open the lids. Luckily we had ordered ala carte items that were served early, otherwise we might have started eating the tablecloth in hunger, since we hadn't had breakfast. These were:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorLvSxDNU6zuZkBSWdU0E9Vz42qbjRXrEJXTnZVCJ-Pm87afMF6Y3AERG-QdRWVLTaw-mH2cXQF8w6lSROxlPjW43nCjPP1meU8WMEUC_9I4vQFXTztZ9IJx7l-uVo9PKDp28jgwrBAaY/s1600/DSC01234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhorLvSxDNU6zuZkBSWdU0E9Vz42qbjRXrEJXTnZVCJ-Pm87afMF6Y3AERG-QdRWVLTaw-mH2cXQF8w6lSROxlPjW43nCjPP1meU8WMEUC_9I4vQFXTztZ9IJx7l-uVo9PKDp28jgwrBAaY/s400/DSC01234.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab croquette</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IU8PrQoRj4f6T5kFeqzifKziji4SnYwDySND6ngVe5HvzGJIfhJqruid91hiaJFnk0wedti7LEe8yOrIXUJFXGixLVb3FpBJ8X9i78a3sr4KIN5n39InPPtwYSOrxFLyJhlCId_a5XYL/s1600/DSC01238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IU8PrQoRj4f6T5kFeqzifKziji4SnYwDySND6ngVe5HvzGJIfhJqruid91hiaJFnk0wedti7LEe8yOrIXUJFXGixLVb3FpBJ8X9i78a3sr4KIN5n39InPPtwYSOrxFLyJhlCId_a5XYL/s400/DSC01238.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab sushi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvCLDUiT1UODPYDXxIleBl2FQOLQHTTyyRGZdMKzwArKkObM7TkONpNx8j9UGZlDO5m22P3udvqnp5bODz7cOuEJPk_4YZjitncBWxOUnPgcF9mpn-GClDSjfgvSvYi_4z3qPlU6LOQN/s1600/DSC01245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvCLDUiT1UODPYDXxIleBl2FQOLQHTTyyRGZdMKzwArKkObM7TkONpNx8j9UGZlDO5m22P3udvqnp5bODz7cOuEJPk_4YZjitncBWxOUnPgcF9mpn-GClDSjfgvSvYi_4z3qPlU6LOQN/s400/DSC01245.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab rice bowl</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
These were the courses served in the crab sets:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_x0QXP41jg8DDvGZsWNT7lB0CEm1gHIrYHCGcWbot5U4ytZb__GF8yGTgd2zSoAT73HBAD5dYP8OAmzrtH9ps1JMLeUiv2HgZPf2bCIW0mcmW0s7OXVw7pV-6aojkOP9R12IK1P3dYyQO/s1600/DSC01233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_x0QXP41jg8DDvGZsWNT7lB0CEm1gHIrYHCGcWbot5U4ytZb__GF8yGTgd2zSoAT73HBAD5dYP8OAmzrtH9ps1JMLeUiv2HgZPf2bCIW0mcmW0s7OXVw7pV-6aojkOP9R12IK1P3dYyQO/s400/DSC01233.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab sashimi and boiled snow crab</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78gxl7U6ch3EIOvuRTlPONOgyUsxD-G1-D1G3jMpObzzqiA_lnei07I1oofukL08S3iOx1fX4EYbuaknivQyTy0cxqT-JHWsmHq6EwDijZvb6NBXhk7DS6zyUiEHwuOIJ67Dso5DYlVsD/s1600/DSC01265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78gxl7U6ch3EIOvuRTlPONOgyUsxD-G1-D1G3jMpObzzqiA_lnei07I1oofukL08S3iOx1fX4EYbuaknivQyTy0cxqT-JHWsmHq6EwDijZvb6NBXhk7DS6zyUiEHwuOIJ67Dso5DYlVsD/s400/DSC01265.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab chawanmushi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-qLFhYgLUUHswHOSwsD5rpSVjIa1Z-ljEe78RB1QFwMJPH2BbnEQ58sQifzNdVtRAuRRnBAY4YXWQa1wsGvQNqRTfXD7isvyW-vuysNjdRAeCN2P0OrpFHavdnU7LF6JjozfrhtTbIE1g/s1600/DSC01275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-qLFhYgLUUHswHOSwsD5rpSVjIa1Z-ljEe78RB1QFwMJPH2BbnEQ58sQifzNdVtRAuRRnBAY4YXWQa1wsGvQNqRTfXD7isvyW-vuysNjdRAeCN2P0OrpFHavdnU7LF6JjozfrhtTbIE1g/s400/DSC01275.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab tempura</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeimtkw2wrM-BEWQTannZxtORTJ1Pc6Ad-PNnwcfppObdw5HbQtMCP1l0h4S06B4uIwabyKqgHPr273YXm1cb9OgWyImT3hdKPrqJ3WjhgOzk-2YJWXBoEb3klcsODQM9hWjKilmDRmfp/s1600/DSC01277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeimtkw2wrM-BEWQTannZxtORTJ1Pc6Ad-PNnwcfppObdw5HbQtMCP1l0h4S06B4uIwabyKqgHPr273YXm1cb9OgWyImT3hdKPrqJ3WjhgOzk-2YJWXBoEb3klcsODQM9hWjKilmDRmfp/s400/DSC01277.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crab gratin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg554tIUXYiKdMjBlrDx3KGgEVbw6GNhlcXW0ly5zB1YZjjOBdTVmZybNL4mYVN_DLPZ8pGexsWSmV60bmIDgMzahr0O4ikeD1Ixe3SD6HlJyy3-qTKfBm2Reb-pNpzFvTiWyvvnX3XMjzQ/s1600/DSC01278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg554tIUXYiKdMjBlrDx3KGgEVbw6GNhlcXW0ly5zB1YZjjOBdTVmZybNL4mYVN_DLPZ8pGexsWSmV60bmIDgMzahr0O4ikeD1Ixe3SD6HlJyy3-qTKfBm2Reb-pNpzFvTiWyvvnX3XMjzQ/s400/DSC01278.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Broiled crab</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Finally, the waitress opened the claypots and tadah - the crab rice! We were supposed to scrape out all the crab meat and mix it with the rice before eating.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tFDELO5EW0InMyjScQJ7kNvtSSbB1WmWYazXK1dXJMTmh2xJmWDQJhKKfcS71ColDx3FdaB9GZoaSt-tmpRAuNZuRuj9DsGKR9YaN-vFHQQd0N6A29v7pa6UBgBypWL2-OjUrVTeMqZT/s1600/DSC01284.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0tFDELO5EW0InMyjScQJ7kNvtSSbB1WmWYazXK1dXJMTmh2xJmWDQJhKKfcS71ColDx3FdaB9GZoaSt-tmpRAuNZuRuj9DsGKR9YaN-vFHQQd0N6A29v7pa6UBgBypWL2-OjUrVTeMqZT/s400/DSC01284.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This meal was a real eye-opener. I'm a seafood lover in general, and the crabs done in various ways were marvelous. The crab gratin and broiled crab were huge hits. We'd also never tasted crab sashimi before and it was so unbelievably sweet, I'm salivating as I'm writing about it now.<br />
<br />
After we polished off everything, the waitress served dessert, which was vanilla ice cream with a green tea sauce that she mixed at the table. A sweet end to a satisfying meal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1Tw_MbV9c6LCTyqyYp69DkIOM-MavaR5NxXstDtj1fgtAKmnmc2dUHJCpwnDjlo5jHjfm_zX4D9MPRJQBjrpciQToIwXu0cxdJn48vYQAr3mfO7JPbWlAkesOI7J8gEL6h5Ox6dvRegU/s1600/DSC01293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1Tw_MbV9c6LCTyqyYp69DkIOM-MavaR5NxXstDtj1fgtAKmnmc2dUHJCpwnDjlo5jHjfm_zX4D9MPRJQBjrpciQToIwXu0cxdJn48vYQAr3mfO7JPbWlAkesOI7J8gEL6h5Ox6dvRegU/s400/DSC01293.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40_SBMRB8J66l7VA52sFQXxn6C2EsRq9EiowsqF_Meb-vGWfKXrcEFQfZ3kiGBJNRrEtzkLa5Bump0pJYfxy-y8zUqmQ_uYoyDVxIqCeTuGbEv9l64zBHaEMpc93ukRMzLvgaXrdzIp9I/s1600/DSC01295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40_SBMRB8J66l7VA52sFQXxn6C2EsRq9EiowsqF_Meb-vGWfKXrcEFQfZ3kiGBJNRrEtzkLa5Bump0pJYfxy-y8zUqmQ_uYoyDVxIqCeTuGbEv9l64zBHaEMpc93ukRMzLvgaXrdzIp9I/s400/DSC01295.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After lunch and feeling a little guilty at being such pigs, we decided to walk off some of the calories by going to <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e4000.html" target="_blank">Osaka Castle</a>. It's huge compared to Nijo-jo Castle in Kyoto and it's quite impressive from the outside, with huge moats and stone walls.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3ZzgPPc4mju6kU1aXvrypqD4J-4az-riL-Nf8UfLD2p4S_FgnzXpmBavyM2XdVPBrM4gRhrWScco76UOlAKuB-D1Yx50HlZaMkZycz2jHwAL5lOJLalvBYWbdTw-8y-CgZ8J0pD1biB1/s1600/DSC01302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3ZzgPPc4mju6kU1aXvrypqD4J-4az-riL-Nf8UfLD2p4S_FgnzXpmBavyM2XdVPBrM4gRhrWScco76UOlAKuB-D1Yx50HlZaMkZycz2jHwAL5lOJLalvBYWbdTw-8y-CgZ8J0pD1biB1/s400/DSC01302.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxf19yGVWtt_eW9xyBo1FOVKumnGFPje0CumEZsyZnKGCqGCQhAU4crCblJvqJRxEKQ52SmzXd7ThSHbyUKW3xylF7fJPyVi8R2jhBTa0_6qPELXVe6tiQhJQr0GlWseaIUy0vdAPV1b2f/s1600/DSC01314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxf19yGVWtt_eW9xyBo1FOVKumnGFPje0CumEZsyZnKGCqGCQhAU4crCblJvqJRxEKQ52SmzXd7ThSHbyUKW3xylF7fJPyVi8R2jhBTa0_6qPELXVe6tiQhJQr0GlWseaIUy0vdAPV1b2f/s400/DSC01314.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Photos are not allowed within the castle. Andre was a little disappointed that the authentic interior of the castle wasn't preserved. It's now a museum with exhibits of artefacts and information about the history of the castle. There's an observatory on the 8th floor of the castle tower which gives you a panoramic view of Osaka.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nsX6vMe2eAW8XI-uOLpVK0gL4-Q0a62THiy1J1k4RftI4rOQ2VbEIzVeba9d3mi3u8ajV4NU8IFcsrIkUf37DpU3WXhRvmLgmdMWTYV1WzlP-K7alsITPiSvAgI-c9r-w8gzadTjuSDu/s1600/DSC01343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nsX6vMe2eAW8XI-uOLpVK0gL4-Q0a62THiy1J1k4RftI4rOQ2VbEIzVeba9d3mi3u8ajV4NU8IFcsrIkUf37DpU3WXhRvmLgmdMWTYV1WzlP-K7alsITPiSvAgI-c9r-w8gzadTjuSDu/s400/DSC01343.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mmIGBpnQqM7MH_Q2sjX67gmIaBkumUHzomJRLCvHw63Twjo5985b5acv9S83v4va2RBNmdBmTVw_NrfDFIGe6x-Uc_BJlim-tk5YJuozEzsUDcBOaFujOqM_I9smHkQeXHiUAxNjmaTT/s1600/DSC01361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mmIGBpnQqM7MH_Q2sjX67gmIaBkumUHzomJRLCvHw63Twjo5985b5acv9S83v4va2RBNmdBmTVw_NrfDFIGe6x-Uc_BJlim-tk5YJuozEzsUDcBOaFujOqM_I9smHkQeXHiUAxNjmaTT/s400/DSC01361.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgyoiD6K3qYScYa4Tn9f5UO0eV1Ansjf6u3pQePK7-bRXr6Ww_iKSTPpnpOuCx_LYa0OgpvfxuA06c8n00Hee7YXU-5_ZW1OC8l_EI8cstC9H6WECdYp68JkZMvx7c2Iwo-Tls9llgA3H/s1600/DSC01386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgyoiD6K3qYScYa4Tn9f5UO0eV1Ansjf6u3pQePK7-bRXr6Ww_iKSTPpnpOuCx_LYa0OgpvfxuA06c8n00Hee7YXU-5_ZW1OC8l_EI8cstC9H6WECdYp68JkZMvx7c2Iwo-Tls9llgA3H/s400/DSC01386.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
The garden is pretty too. Japanese gardens tend to be very picture-book charming, albeit a little manicured.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVPPdiT087cTsmZLJIw7rXbBtZ7p0DOzOtuFqPlfmHcvAvEmbm0QukBUxxqyIpn-uQDRYetbJA5f1DP2tgUTJwRNp_CYYjpfZBnXoi-zybSkDpdcwR547aCNh9FQA0-zKFKA6PHFdtrG1/s1600/DSC01392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVPPdiT087cTsmZLJIw7rXbBtZ7p0DOzOtuFqPlfmHcvAvEmbm0QukBUxxqyIpn-uQDRYetbJA5f1DP2tgUTJwRNp_CYYjpfZBnXoi-zybSkDpdcwR547aCNh9FQA0-zKFKA6PHFdtrG1/s400/DSC01392.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKo3tY6bKwwjYG_jQqSKEr-B9e_5zbD6TUhlKrpKFVDjOJh1PGAS93srQaeeD5BNndCYUcsp1dJvoJ3vgTfmPmuX4tga9mKfYVJWxOWAZH2JGT2NeDGs7x9m7rqpAy2znuwqsM4gthH01-/s1600/DSC01404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKo3tY6bKwwjYG_jQqSKEr-B9e_5zbD6TUhlKrpKFVDjOJh1PGAS93srQaeeD5BNndCYUcsp1dJvoJ3vgTfmPmuX4tga9mKfYVJWxOWAZH2JGT2NeDGs7x9m7rqpAy2znuwqsM4gthH01-/s400/DSC01404.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Osaka castle's grounds are sprawling and by the time we'd completed our visit and made our way out of the castle, I saw on my phone that I'd already walked about 8km that day. No wonder my back was aching.<br />
<br />
There was only one cure for tired bodies - more food, of course 😏 Off we went to <a href="http://www.endo-sushi.com/english.html" target="_blank">Endo Sushi</a>! Endo Sushi is lauded as one of the very best sushi joints in Osaka, known especially for otoro (tuna belly). Endo Sushi used to be located only at Osaka Central Fish Market, and my friends would have to wake up at some ungodly hour and brave long queues to have a taste of their otoro. However, Endo Sushi has since opened up another branch at Keihan Mall. It opens from 11am-11pm, which works much better for us.<br />
<br />
Keihan Mall is easy to locate - it's directly next to Kyobashi station. Endo Sushi is on the 5th floor. However, since there isn't an English sign, it helps to know what the shopfront looks like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNwoUwGKPaRvR22hCx5SVLisCf8Epq36ZWXZFivCCBB9OElPZSgBwyCIXy2K5AiMs2oWWWEMw9IsIvGpiFxuVGtDPbKsd56vzlHDs5spajX-n-hI_rYZdB02DyFiDGp_6Ay9Pp0Gvz0DS/s1600/DSC01460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNwoUwGKPaRvR22hCx5SVLisCf8Epq36ZWXZFivCCBB9OElPZSgBwyCIXy2K5AiMs2oWWWEMw9IsIvGpiFxuVGtDPbKsd56vzlHDs5spajX-n-hI_rYZdB02DyFiDGp_6Ay9Pp0Gvz0DS/s400/DSC01460.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
At Endo Sushi, most people order from their 5-sushi sets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKz9Aq6FcYiOK4Oxml9QXMhY7QEq86IkTxZSKBf4xsl8CbAhdmFY8js220l7_AM-fnuZohFqrky4pMSguzWM6n6vqXAP5hXRiXsFPwl7_mwO8NNeWJCuTSxczIMsx3E0RZfxec8TeBpKlY/s1600/IMG_20170927_164102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKz9Aq6FcYiOK4Oxml9QXMhY7QEq86IkTxZSKBf4xsl8CbAhdmFY8js220l7_AM-fnuZohFqrky4pMSguzWM6n6vqXAP5hXRiXsFPwl7_mwO8NNeWJCuTSxczIMsx3E0RZfxec8TeBpKlY/s400/IMG_20170927_164102.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Each plate of 5 pieces of sushi is Y1,134 (about S$14). You can swap any piece of sushi for the corresponding number in another set. For example, we all decided to order set 1 but three of us swapped out the tai (sea bream) for hotate (scallop) from Set 2. Lesley-Anne swapped out tai for ika (squid) from Set 4.<br />
<br />
Even before the sushi came, we were already impressed when we were served REAL wasabi. This is pale green with a mild, delicate flavour, unlike the overpowering bright green horseradish you get in commercial sushi restaurants in Singapore. Instead of pouring soya sauce in a condiment platter, you brush it on so it doesn't drown out your sushi.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbOTVNKfqUGiRQQR_sfgselPOt0SoAqIJ1OZIVOF5aE0Mck8myCz-yPw1GRcDFvBWplW04kvunnx-4p6szW91DOVnOO0gRVp9lZ15hd3bJmskSAavxHKdt4A1fT0tF1gMJvciYdSAEe19/s1600/DSC01443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMbOTVNKfqUGiRQQR_sfgselPOt0SoAqIJ1OZIVOF5aE0Mck8myCz-yPw1GRcDFvBWplW04kvunnx-4p6szW91DOVnOO0gRVp9lZ15hd3bJmskSAavxHKdt4A1fT0tF1gMJvciYdSAEe19/s400/DSC01443.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Then the sushi arrived.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwReWKL_1jouPaZONkQfQfd77FIffBX8GqJshDAUAd2PKWYOShNjaEOOddHGYItvs1Wt_2m3lrWvv6CC6-Gcxo8RbHUTYnNIY9lx_zlH22zAb1E12ZtOGXWLXjNRoaYNBZADZCHjyJR0n/s1600/DSC01451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwReWKL_1jouPaZONkQfQfd77FIffBX8GqJshDAUAd2PKWYOShNjaEOOddHGYItvs1Wt_2m3lrWvv6CC6-Gcxo8RbHUTYnNIY9lx_zlH22zAb1E12ZtOGXWLXjNRoaYNBZADZCHjyJR0n/s400/DSC01451.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbUESTQAeS-dfsnQdGgjJg8tbdSHfk1uzUipJeM4ZlGhsyS1Ma8oF5gk6zFs2388RN-omzZ2VZk4ibjBqXykEkH9JQX6xfgaq0GlVzMrbNSIb0HnRobNxd-A6GGtEOJFeb4VwQA56qvHT/s1600/DSC01453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDbUESTQAeS-dfsnQdGgjJg8tbdSHfk1uzUipJeM4ZlGhsyS1Ma8oF5gk6zFs2388RN-omzZ2VZk4ibjBqXykEkH9JQX6xfgaq0GlVzMrbNSIb0HnRobNxd-A6GGtEOJFeb4VwQA56qvHT/s400/DSC01453.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Our expectations were already sky high since our friends have raved about Endo Sushi, and still, we were blown away. Forgive the clickbait expression, there is no other way to describe the taste. We've eaten a lot of sushi over the years and have never tasted anything like this. It boggles my mind how something that doesn't require any cooking can taste so dramatically different. Fresh doesn't begin to describe it - every piece was sublime. The uni, the otoro, the sweet scallop...sigh. It made me want to live in Osaka just so I could eat there any time I wanted.<br />
<br />
We had initially said we would just eat one plate each since we had a big lunch, and would probably snack at Dotonbori later, but each time Andre ate a piece of sushi, his eyes widened further. When Kenneth asked him if he wanted another round, he replied, "I think another 6 platters would make me very happy." 😆 No, he didn't get 6 but we did order another round.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After that, it was back to Dotonbori to catch the night scene. Since this post is already very picture-heavy, I will blog about that experience in a later post. Meanwhile, I'll just share one thing - our dessert at <a href="http://www.pablo3.com/english.html" target="_blank">Pablo Cheese Tart</a>. Pablo Cheese Tart has made a name for itself with its oozy cheese tarts. The main branch in Dotonbori is the first with an eat-in cafe.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUFk_HLv4IK9ME7R-BNWaoGV5nHgQqIFIqjiFTyAW3oRm5PzL1dLv0ptFlzv5pDdvG8enVQXX-kdYn79KIRr1sR8My1E-PebCQshbyAZB08pQu2bolvqzMYrpK_2xOGz-tr0mY-JCMwpJ/s1600/DSC01484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUFk_HLv4IK9ME7R-BNWaoGV5nHgQqIFIqjiFTyAW3oRm5PzL1dLv0ptFlzv5pDdvG8enVQXX-kdYn79KIRr1sR8My1E-PebCQshbyAZB08pQu2bolvqzMYrpK_2xOGz-tr0mY-JCMwpJ/s400/DSC01484.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
This is what we ordered:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiissWmy_Zb7XCKTgiqkjpEuplyAY-lQgmfVEsuGlTpQraiUzkrNlS9uJKl6JeCJcFQWzkqhrExA1maYKdks4vyE4sFunH9tMF8nKygPVKAMl2S-bNco4tclJpgq9-EMBL4-yOTUnUYCARM/s1600/DSC01506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiissWmy_Zb7XCKTgiqkjpEuplyAY-lQgmfVEsuGlTpQraiUzkrNlS9uJKl6JeCJcFQWzkqhrExA1maYKdks4vyE4sFunH9tMF8nKygPVKAMl2S-bNco4tclJpgq9-EMBL4-yOTUnUYCARM/s400/DSC01506.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original cheese tart with vanilla ice cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMAxPAL1BeaE5KBJtA8_S0j8rSG7YBnpyHvM1zG1YUk6L-lgs5b9O1Oej1XjNOG2tS3UbtUQr08pR3UCOMdvsFIK3yuexfaF1_-MpU7HYEV5_y5mP8QNpLoIpwXUAfWSvQIaxlPSCL5IQ/s1600/DSC01503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwMAxPAL1BeaE5KBJtA8_S0j8rSG7YBnpyHvM1zG1YUk6L-lgs5b9O1Oej1XjNOG2tS3UbtUQr08pR3UCOMdvsFIK3yuexfaF1_-MpU7HYEV5_y5mP8QNpLoIpwXUAfWSvQIaxlPSCL5IQ/s400/DSC01503.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matcha cheese tart with azuki beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEmJnQSRCSm1LOizIE_o3EwVPFGLICWB19kquuliefa7yzgJFiIFO5fQd4VipV94dGjygG_b8ByjwtuWPAnmW8M9FJzynfl-XZn9E9D_H00ugIqZ-n8feKjfg0xzvB7ft9cVVx1a_QVHE7/s1600/DSC01510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEmJnQSRCSm1LOizIE_o3EwVPFGLICWB19kquuliefa7yzgJFiIFO5fQd4VipV94dGjygG_b8ByjwtuWPAnmW8M9FJzynfl-XZn9E9D_H00ugIqZ-n8feKjfg0xzvB7ft9cVVx1a_QVHE7/s400/DSC01510.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAol9ro5biVc9phXmf9EAMS_9yq2HTCce9K-Wjbe21L5OgWWRf28FFyMQ287aN7OrVFkhlNmI0nlJutH0K8Om4oGbObmUPgqlDCIQuoZWdLuUtNgflRdoStpFD31KKxCzRNlkpHe1gvVUg/s1600/DSC01487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAol9ro5biVc9phXmf9EAMS_9yq2HTCce9K-Wjbe21L5OgWWRf28FFyMQ287aN7OrVFkhlNmI0nlJutH0K8Om4oGbObmUPgqlDCIQuoZWdLuUtNgflRdoStpFD31KKxCzRNlkpHe1gvVUg/s400/DSC01487.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheese soft serve ice cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We thought the original cheese tart was ok but the green tea one was brilliant. Its slightly savoury custardy centre complements the sweet azuki beans perfectly. Pablo Cheese Tart has since opened a branch in Singapore, but it doesn't have the green tea version, which is a shame because that's the winner for us. As for the ice cream, I thought the cheese flavour was a little odd but my kids loved it.<br />
<br />
And that marked the end of another day of culinary adventures. We're so returning to Singapore with excess baggage.<br />
<br />monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-31107960347150338652017-09-27T23:00:00.000+08:002017-09-28T22:53:20.371+08:00Seeking zen at a bamboo forest and Fushimi-Inari shrine<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 4 (Tue, 26 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
This day, we took a day trip to Arashiyama, to see the famed bamboo forest. It's only a 15-minute train ride from Kyoto station. But first, a little about our lunch plans. In my research, I'd come across this famous beef place called <a href="http://www.steak-otsuka.com/food2" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;" target="_blank">Otsuka</a> at Arashiyama. It serves wagyu steaks as well as the legendary Murasawa beef, which is supposedly the ultimate wagyu beef named after the producer. Only 80 cows a year are produced and Otsuka serves it at prices that will not bankrupt your bank account. Some of my friends recommended yakiniku restaurants in Osaka but we prefer our beef cooked for us, so we decided that our splurge meal on Japanese beef would be on steak.<br />
<br />
Otsuka only opens for lunch from 11am to 2.30pm five days a week. I'd tried making reservations but was told they didn't have any the day we planned a visit. So we did the typical kiasu Singaporean thing when it comes to food - we strategised. When we tell people we're going to Kyoto/Osaka mainly to eat, people laugh. Why? We take our food very seriously.<br />
<br />
We arrived at Arashiyama at 10am, an hour before the restaurant opened. To get to Otsuka, exit from the south gate of the JR Saga-Arashiyama station, turn right and walk down a small lane next to the train museum. After about 5 minutes, you will reach this sign next to a small road.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHbu-omtp-JjKyjiNmxKvjEppk3cY-G7nywd0zNRZJFKML5ran3Ikpd4V2iAdBPHCyQNvSIO2_wON-zHpfVVFGgbez_6Tgf0SAxPjHIJwDIo-GKS1M4uuBcEcf7cJMsl2B7fhO5_i534C/s1600/DSC00829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHbu-omtp-JjKyjiNmxKvjEppk3cY-G7nywd0zNRZJFKML5ran3Ikpd4V2iAdBPHCyQNvSIO2_wON-zHpfVVFGgbez_6Tgf0SAxPjHIJwDIo-GKS1M4uuBcEcf7cJMsl2B7fhO5_i534C/s320/DSC00829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Otsuka is the last house down the lane. We wrote our names on the wait list placed outside the restaurant (at 10.10am, we weren't even the first, another person was more kiasu than we were!) Then we headed out to the bamboo forest which was very close by.<br />
<br />
The bamboo forest is simply magical. The fresh scent added to the ethereal quality of the place. Definitely well worth a visit. We saw some clueless tourists haplessly trying to drag their luggage bags up the cobbled path of the bamboo forest. Please don't do that - you're just killing yourself (and your bags).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8aU_MIFMjyzUA2FnJI0u1fnhQ_HhqkQDKuVyn5SGX9-7KrRE07YoHkwaEzCovHAF35op0Gf4GgjC3RS1KRE7p60UY6tSOYuw0oHksd9voZtvoXtMeyaOp-x3WkQch6xcE5Iq7d6UkNWu/s1600/IMG_20170926_101213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8aU_MIFMjyzUA2FnJI0u1fnhQ_HhqkQDKuVyn5SGX9-7KrRE07YoHkwaEzCovHAF35op0Gf4GgjC3RS1KRE7p60UY6tSOYuw0oHksd9voZtvoXtMeyaOp-x3WkQch6xcE5Iq7d6UkNWu/s400/IMG_20170926_101213.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1cV773DLY5fPJuKwpOpnAy6HfW-fgmY1cuVGmzQ-SLcSkFUna0TXW_VWW5Bd1Pmmw6um9rgfhfo4tYpd3-6_8hhaTFh0I6gYXAZvQ9Li9rc8H8H0wnP2sevw6LH-_bKyvp5QIVByjiLZ/s1600/DSC01045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-1cV773DLY5fPJuKwpOpnAy6HfW-fgmY1cuVGmzQ-SLcSkFUna0TXW_VWW5Bd1Pmmw6um9rgfhfo4tYpd3-6_8hhaTFh0I6gYXAZvQ9Li9rc8H8H0wnP2sevw6LH-_bKyvp5QIVByjiLZ/s400/DSC01045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZmgH1urrKo-iO2qz2VJ8SH8VwbCKCArv6dtbYJmX_7ZUSp2nOK5VTBVAxg-8AAWM_Vh9c7wDBrq1UsnDT_gbYihOpMcrlwcXQoxuyubMjCpkyGN_5FTMhLI-WfCjAQhaznQF8hq4ggps/s1600/DSC01040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZmgH1urrKo-iO2qz2VJ8SH8VwbCKCArv6dtbYJmX_7ZUSp2nOK5VTBVAxg-8AAWM_Vh9c7wDBrq1UsnDT_gbYihOpMcrlwcXQoxuyubMjCpkyGN_5FTMhLI-WfCjAQhaznQF8hq4ggps/s400/DSC01040.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfWLlhtBbRNo-OtUOXBltz8Qx_I_RqaVIXXt1a2lYNudSDGtMfPlopiMMOSayzampVsqQajbXefoXRYcc2qTz8ZsZUM5vNDs8YLwqtlHbLahyphenhyphenGqiUQ-rkh5PHwzGhq-gNqhkq2ieczqDP/s1600/DSC01047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfWLlhtBbRNo-OtUOXBltz8Qx_I_RqaVIXXt1a2lYNudSDGtMfPlopiMMOSayzampVsqQajbXefoXRYcc2qTz8ZsZUM5vNDs8YLwqtlHbLahyphenhyphenGqiUQ-rkh5PHwzGhq-gNqhkq2ieczqDP/s400/DSC01047.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Just before 11am, we went back to Otsuka to claim our spot. By then, the waiting area outside had almost filled up and more than 10 parties had written their names on the list.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIpjakVvoQqAFFngJmSQ0Ys6HKvWWmrPuejriNja7UWHGa-bCNM_0obnFV3sR9gRxlZOBfIhbc2_Sn7SoEFKVX3QzUuAjCtMinxMce806p5_lr9DF8SM93U6OtlWSma74vxRr6FLglqfU/s1600/IMG_20170926_104210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIpjakVvoQqAFFngJmSQ0Ys6HKvWWmrPuejriNja7UWHGa-bCNM_0obnFV3sR9gRxlZOBfIhbc2_Sn7SoEFKVX3QzUuAjCtMinxMce806p5_lr9DF8SM93U6OtlWSma74vxRr6FLglqfU/s400/IMG_20170926_104210.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
On the dot at 11am, a waitress came out to call the first party. We were next. The restaurant is tiny, with only four tables and some bar seating. This means that if you don't have reservations or didn't leave your name early, you're likely to have to wait for more than an hour and I've heard that they sometimes run out of choice cuts early.<br />
<br />
We ordered four sets:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C267m9p6gwS2V-g4LHsuycOQP9MMXRmVO-C7SBbSDTniecW5hMthTYjf-lWc-59mXEgbZcnxBHZhKPDL5Ec0yg-DWz1KW_ZOmrpREUEmtDiUMBQvzWnWk1iAkLj12bOe-tiBy6jXZil_/s1600/DSC00913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C267m9p6gwS2V-g4LHsuycOQP9MMXRmVO-C7SBbSDTniecW5hMthTYjf-lWc-59mXEgbZcnxBHZhKPDL5Ec0yg-DWz1KW_ZOmrpREUEmtDiUMBQvzWnWk1iAkLj12bOe-tiBy6jXZil_/s400/DSC00913.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Short plate beef set</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBdWSjqVEgd-uIt6q_BGYx3f7iraqApP9JNGYoOJq8h5J4_NnukWj7WlaCeRQ45TtPizWPx96r3qrafpNnb6iKi0sp5Xg6AKEvHa6JC8nQ4-g88hm7HAvzoop8BljQZ8XSSeXU572fCzI/s1600/DSC00924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBdWSjqVEgd-uIt6q_BGYx3f7iraqApP9JNGYoOJq8h5J4_NnukWj7WlaCeRQ45TtPizWPx96r3qrafpNnb6iKi0sp5Xg6AKEvHa6JC8nQ4-g88hm7HAvzoop8BljQZ8XSSeXU572fCzI/s400/DSC00924.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wagyu A4 sirloin steak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGCFAyP2_-sKiIf0MUq-VZiYoG4c4zhB465uLkiPf071fyvv5_X3wRdbPQCIr-njZ_30of-8khK9NlnhPnP6Df5fPTuTpowIBqnJGYL_w2O8qN07UzYVOz3OzXUqYVjC28zpJkBf79iAJ/s1600/DSC00916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZGCFAyP2_-sKiIf0MUq-VZiYoG4c4zhB465uLkiPf071fyvv5_X3wRdbPQCIr-njZ_30of-8khK9NlnhPnP6Df5fPTuTpowIBqnJGYL_w2O8qN07UzYVOz3OzXUqYVjC28zpJkBf79iAJ/s400/DSC00916.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flat iron steak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia10joxi3xy43KFdK1bmEwTwqByDQi35bl9zNYg_2cr9aL8ampNPHDIuCC9r-59HKkPeFk3aKXwMjZC5FO6TYrnpwzx1Bilc1ljifyexMnkMYbrbQ3Y7DFCtbuJOLv6RzyZ5I0u7o2lcWo/s1600/DSC00928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia10joxi3xy43KFdK1bmEwTwqByDQi35bl9zNYg_2cr9aL8ampNPHDIuCC9r-59HKkPeFk3aKXwMjZC5FO6TYrnpwzx1Bilc1ljifyexMnkMYbrbQ3Y7DFCtbuJOLv6RzyZ5I0u7o2lcWo/s400/DSC00928.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Murasawa sirloin steak (grade 5)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPE3QJhKiItOHfJGiqsYc24162BrMwzcAATyOd_CwnvttjLYl1oAWfsih_vx2LdCp8Om2cqWxvnoyMBY8_KobCnDjk2-H0yaMpOJRkJhYoNz30V6cwZeeO917bEwysBZyVa7VStUv94q1a/s1600/DSC00931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPE3QJhKiItOHfJGiqsYc24162BrMwzcAATyOd_CwnvttjLYl1oAWfsih_vx2LdCp8Om2cqWxvnoyMBY8_KobCnDjk2-H0yaMpOJRkJhYoNz30V6cwZeeO917bEwysBZyVa7VStUv94q1a/s400/DSC00931.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of Murasawa steak</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Our verdict? We've never tasted steak like this ever. The Murasawa steak was so fatty and tender it melted in your mouth. The flat iron steak was a surprise - it was the fattiest of the lot and like slicing through butter. The short plate beef set was ordered by Lesley-Anne because she's not a huge fan of beef and didn't want to splurge on what she calls "hunks of meat". But the beef turned out to be so super tender and the marinade very, very tasty. Fantastic value for money. Note: If you like steaks for the beefy taste, you might actually not be used to higher grade wagyus, as the taste is less intense. But we enjoyed the experience tremendously - definitely something to try when in Japan.<br />
<br />
When we left the restaurant, Otsuka was only seating party no. 9 (who was already waiting when the restaurant opened) and the waiting area was full. So follow my tip and go early!<br />
<br />
Stomachs full, we went to the Tenryu-ji temple. You will come across an entrance to the temple in the bamboo forest but we realised later that there is another entrance on the way to the Togetsukyo Bridge, so you don't have to go back through the bamboo forest to visit the temple.<br />
<br />
We paid Y500 each to visit only the temple grounds, not the buildings. The gardens are very beautiful. I wish we could have seen them in autumn, they must be stunning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJD0HjS1HAlZ8iRO0ZcrrPJhhm3PLJcJ9NdUHRqbnbCgP5o5ZL28hZBrDaiwPeML_KppXZsMs4VJEVVx6R6rR9uJCfWUFHs18SIlKtyfLWdQgx0mEyo5f8pmhWNY6t6ztSZTsF1VanBMJH/s1600/DSC00983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJD0HjS1HAlZ8iRO0ZcrrPJhhm3PLJcJ9NdUHRqbnbCgP5o5ZL28hZBrDaiwPeML_KppXZsMs4VJEVVx6R6rR9uJCfWUFHs18SIlKtyfLWdQgx0mEyo5f8pmhWNY6t6ztSZTsF1VanBMJH/s400/DSC00983.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_7uwIqv835H-QQJqfSUgpwqiqyJXwvShqZNvn8L3uIn6GIn_fbw5jr_6rhTVaT8qQtzXkydGhlnbwUF0Ywo6thFJywY4nfPtoWHaYJJF6CTdXDTtozlJQFvEvgotu3sFm7UMftuQwEWV/s1600/DSC01006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="363" data-original-width="1600" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_7uwIqv835H-QQJqfSUgpwqiqyJXwvShqZNvn8L3uIn6GIn_fbw5jr_6rhTVaT8qQtzXkydGhlnbwUF0Ywo6thFJywY4nfPtoWHaYJJF6CTdXDTtozlJQFvEvgotu3sFm7UMftuQwEWV/s400/DSC01006.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A panoramic view</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-6kAuEV2AVo-wfhog8Y0zD4DLhWhIQPklS31_Bwc8MYlxLrk5LcJzaeXoNfDMXDXZoavq76wpX3M9jTCSPONV5FzkaPS2XJP_7JhiIx7kcxf2jUxmQILooGRlDekrReoT2DlN1QlN7xk/s1600/DSC01008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-6kAuEV2AVo-wfhog8Y0zD4DLhWhIQPklS31_Bwc8MYlxLrk5LcJzaeXoNfDMXDXZoavq76wpX3M9jTCSPONV5FzkaPS2XJP_7JhiIx7kcxf2jUxmQILooGRlDekrReoT2DlN1QlN7xk/s400/DSC01008.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTdxpIT_iwYex_k9lu4oUxJxduZXdBhAsKQvBY5DVeNr8tCgP2l_7RKuaZBN4ks_ErXvJTFGYC7kXWdMWl38GFyx9wY3BuV95xRUphU0J6bEcJGbub6yo1b5v89egbKFW0cAGWjP5hicV/s1600/DSC01012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDTdxpIT_iwYex_k9lu4oUxJxduZXdBhAsKQvBY5DVeNr8tCgP2l_7RKuaZBN4ks_ErXvJTFGYC7kXWdMWl38GFyx9wY3BuV95xRUphU0J6bEcJGbub6yo1b5v89egbKFW0cAGWjP5hicV/s400/DSC01012.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LIn4ZK0lWRoJrOqUH6XQhdfY067136Gb5pRQRVlWG1fiCIMFTSJ9Bl8DYg4D12i_-2JaE9P5tbUQukINpwBm7CAE4doF0QIYVERYHunRM2Mqddz64hYJA0NpU3cCQHTYDFHh4SK19yzx/s1600/DSC00988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0LIn4ZK0lWRoJrOqUH6XQhdfY067136Gb5pRQRVlWG1fiCIMFTSJ9Bl8DYg4D12i_-2JaE9P5tbUQukINpwBm7CAE4doF0QIYVERYHunRM2Mqddz64hYJA0NpU3cCQHTYDFHh4SK19yzx/s400/DSC00988.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragon at the dragon gate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After the temple, time for ice cream! There's a popular shop at the entrance of the bamboo forest selling soft serve matcha ice cream for Y350 but we bought from an elderly man in a less commercial shop just across the road for only Y200. Support the elderly lah.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdykYJp9YEy58MfTjz-xYbapuJWQcWfp2h4zlllWTy5w0YoTLPGNn3CJuEQ_SCMSOf0pqPH7XzPKrC-xg6a0fBqh7jUKqniSg2kJfqDARJbYQcIrK8peyPkR-LUKwWgS7nUhnkBtUKtUX/s1600/DSC01048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHdykYJp9YEy58MfTjz-xYbapuJWQcWfp2h4zlllWTy5w0YoTLPGNn3CJuEQ_SCMSOf0pqPH7XzPKrC-xg6a0fBqh7jUKqniSg2kJfqDARJbYQcIrK8peyPkR-LUKwWgS7nUhnkBtUKtUX/s400/DSC01048.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
The last place we visited at Arashiyama was the Togetsukyo Bridge. It stretches across the Katsura River, where many people were playing or relaxing. Very scenic.<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></span></div>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNMepUbww5vQCMO9hO9LaU2ipaIDxZsA_M2aK0MQqI99MY1bgJnlHwOWecDJjy7BcuwATCBu-tUHgn4wIaIssBkzGjtCm4FgKABfgaLHExyrOmTXFuS3w-Eg2lEFrA6js6uA_bLNj1BFF/s1600/DSC01075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFNMepUbww5vQCMO9hO9LaU2ipaIDxZsA_M2aK0MQqI99MY1bgJnlHwOWecDJjy7BcuwATCBu-tUHgn4wIaIssBkzGjtCm4FgKABfgaLHExyrOmTXFuS3w-Eg2lEFrA6js6uA_bLNj1BFF/s400/DSC01075.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-JIgv0AdRZyxjrghD8z6_-Y8EbUbyldF8VnYFA59Jhq7hLcvYARf624PJ0sdyf7ekTe7rBf9rg1la4UBvzNJLu-meXma9zRccTSGJsRdiIaaIQhlzh3SCmTiCKKZezV9l9KsZRtnd8o4/s1600/DSC01065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-JIgv0AdRZyxjrghD8z6_-Y8EbUbyldF8VnYFA59Jhq7hLcvYARf624PJ0sdyf7ekTe7rBf9rg1la4UBvzNJLu-meXma9zRccTSGJsRdiIaaIQhlzh3SCmTiCKKZezV9l9KsZRtnd8o4/s400/DSC01065.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4tBbf-ZMb65mdGZMnck-TsldEQDGJdRS3lYflXb9PySADcrGYBpOisH5_8yLdwO7XBBA_t_Gr9gw8yVNGb5aGA-JwDapRJESSgp7jc3MV7-rP1uriUzlRR6Zz-wpN41FsAHsGqUYpwvj/s1600/DSC01068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4tBbf-ZMb65mdGZMnck-TsldEQDGJdRS3lYflXb9PySADcrGYBpOisH5_8yLdwO7XBBA_t_Gr9gw8yVNGb5aGA-JwDapRJESSgp7jc3MV7-rP1uriUzlRR6Zz-wpN41FsAHsGqUYpwvj/s400/DSC01068.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Initially, we only had Arashiyama planned for the day, but we ended our visit quite early in the day, so decided to also go to the famous Fushimi-Inari shrine. It's known, of course, for its iconic orange torii gates which wind up the mountain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezSkXrWspXMEMRlFcyaOM3zpAdnAI9ideZFTECHpwPZTK-8PC7iLZEcSgvZIwGZMdkKR3z2bSv9Uq6ACIafQ6XdHVv3kfFoOsmbDS4S8KqDMbl4i9nRX5nQwAp0P6EiN4TZTr8aiFZPHP/s1600/DSC01099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezSkXrWspXMEMRlFcyaOM3zpAdnAI9ideZFTECHpwPZTK-8PC7iLZEcSgvZIwGZMdkKR3z2bSv9Uq6ACIafQ6XdHVv3kfFoOsmbDS4S8KqDMbl4i9nRX5nQwAp0P6EiN4TZTr8aiFZPHP/s400/DSC01099.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80sII7qtmznHMIRPnw9a8laVUi4dXCoSNxLpC3umX_s5pNUI05GMppSMGiy0BVqImKIIEMwnA7qSIGj-mCgQS-fy2miZ3Hl8BDb33nQLTXMXXg2vKHbV-RZcYyL1Q0nV2Q6ZWQBqYF_c6/s1600/DSC01119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj80sII7qtmznHMIRPnw9a8laVUi4dXCoSNxLpC3umX_s5pNUI05GMppSMGiy0BVqImKIIEMwnA7qSIGj-mCgQS-fy2miZ3Hl8BDb33nQLTXMXXg2vKHbV-RZcYyL1Q0nV2Q6ZWQBqYF_c6/s400/DSC01119.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYUKGnAXr6LbOdRfzaztl_kYdlEB_qFmormSDY_q6YcUFRR2LFnlFUxVpRWmfdEpC82aOREYPcrz4V9ggA95bp1EKRXMKsbGxq0nTthfkwZQm8w9C7NOG1sR27pypFfclLdz7ghD1BpKC/s1600/DSC01151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeYUKGnAXr6LbOdRfzaztl_kYdlEB_qFmormSDY_q6YcUFRR2LFnlFUxVpRWmfdEpC82aOREYPcrz4V9ggA95bp1EKRXMKsbGxq0nTthfkwZQm8w9C7NOG1sR27pypFfclLdz7ghD1BpKC/s400/DSC01151.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwek-QyoGGxXtXsdday8ztfn6ysXgL-lOafA3CdN3WDIf69yLx0zJpva58LtQ-kN3fzkbWCUeqL0fC72Fa0R3KKx0C5GIAMESaF5Y1aqdzmiBbca42z38aykcBJzXL4wnYtXxYPbBdHsdo/s1600/DSC01153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwek-QyoGGxXtXsdday8ztfn6ysXgL-lOafA3CdN3WDIf69yLx0zJpva58LtQ-kN3fzkbWCUeqL0fC72Fa0R3KKx0C5GIAMESaF5Y1aqdzmiBbca42z38aykcBJzXL4wnYtXxYPbBdHsdo/s400/DSC01153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCFmhPBg0HdawMha9ZX480ItNJICJw82-9C96PCazWygWf20Rjn2JQPbcU5FAhed_YvRdxPJW3nujkU2NK4WASdBQFAGYRVZqzY0dRbporLzDO6QHYiwMvyDDcUIxjZu3DGVqLG7q68bq/s1600/DSC01156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCFmhPBg0HdawMha9ZX480ItNJICJw82-9C96PCazWygWf20Rjn2JQPbcU5FAhed_YvRdxPJW3nujkU2NK4WASdBQFAGYRVZqzY0dRbporLzDO6QHYiwMvyDDcUIxjZu3DGVqLG7q68bq/s400/DSC01156.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The hike up the full trail of torii gates is about 4km. If you're as unfit as I am, that's a terribly daunting prospect and you're likely to walk just two or three sections before returning back down. The thing is, the lower sections tend to be jam packed with equally unfit people, so getting a nice photo without being photo bombed is a challenge in itself. The higher you go, the fewer people, the nicer the pics (duh).<br />
<br />
<b>Tip: </b>the first stretch of torii gates start on the right hand side of a temple. On the left hand side however, there is a short track up the mountain. This is for people to take a short cut down the trail without having to retrace their steps the entire way. So if you take that track up, you'll reach the end of the second section of the torii gates within 5 minutes or less, and you can start your trek upwards from there, bypassing the initial crowded sections. You're welcome.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoMWokO9TYKAVcbB67q0_H4J53mauvQmnoj0KqTFPdph-ehoyuAqNmlGMI_P3Br8z_LhO0MBwuaYc0INIQ1lhoapZP8Z8YMNoPrjyOLC-xcKnWVxQcLxzJf6VaVbos-SztqSEWECvCYRc/s1600/DSC01174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeoMWokO9TYKAVcbB67q0_H4J53mauvQmnoj0KqTFPdph-ehoyuAqNmlGMI_P3Br8z_LhO0MBwuaYc0INIQ1lhoapZP8Z8YMNoPrjyOLC-xcKnWVxQcLxzJf6VaVbos-SztqSEWECvCYRc/s400/DSC01174.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2SkA1zjOgDchm7QiARTyl_qQGq3v-3hUft5otaEWbb-UT1GcKH9q9kkrYthFJxiC1px4cw6Shv9HUlWDBtiIl8Rj5PvLj96eYMV4ZBvxzWLO4Djf1oOjIXE08qiCGP1XZiXBEKoDTuHb/s1600/DSC01181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2SkA1zjOgDchm7QiARTyl_qQGq3v-3hUft5otaEWbb-UT1GcKH9q9kkrYthFJxiC1px4cw6Shv9HUlWDBtiIl8Rj5PvLj96eYMV4ZBvxzWLO4Djf1oOjIXE08qiCGP1XZiXBEKoDTuHb/s400/DSC01181.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
After a full day of sight-seeing, we returned to Kyoto station for dinner (more food!) and decided to try Katsukura, a katsu (pork cutlet) restaurant with good reviews. It's located on the 11th floor of Kyoto station, which is a food row.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcuEwW8pN2go3xJKEwmQaeTKyl8QWV6vOl5WMwxQ_WmHvew044Z24VV2eFDzKWU4yrYvPp07_9_UBYdkNhw21nmmJrrXp7mR2ufYw1FYp5iJ0NZKpTQhdzgpWeNktSLVMLUTjyg6jJ64i/s1600/IMG_20170926_171829_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjcuEwW8pN2go3xJKEwmQaeTKyl8QWV6vOl5WMwxQ_WmHvew044Z24VV2eFDzKWU4yrYvPp07_9_UBYdkNhw21nmmJrrXp7mR2ufYw1FYp5iJ0NZKpTQhdzgpWeNktSLVMLUTjyg6jJ64i/s400/IMG_20170926_171829_HDR.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Here, you grind your own sesame seeds in a bowl to create the sauce for your katsu.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmsAF3vvcrpNS8QWA0HhSMH4zAjxI2abJP3acx_TfgEw77tN1iL017v-D4p318WEs-sVGChzlhF6qh6uwFTfpbKYC-qPweABnAFx2ss-H1Ui-678nsL044SAggAfdsawPjcPNUMeHH7_r/s1600/DSC01197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRmsAF3vvcrpNS8QWA0HhSMH4zAjxI2abJP3acx_TfgEw77tN1iL017v-D4p318WEs-sVGChzlhF6qh6uwFTfpbKYC-qPweABnAFx2ss-H1Ui-678nsL044SAggAfdsawPjcPNUMeHH7_r/s400/DSC01197.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Lesley-Anne and I are not fans of pork, so we opted for prawns instead. Very generous portions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWERNE0Ae_7BZKOxJ1wQMeOt2HvtCMGAULH4VnbHElEKeED0w2EAOyJxEeEW6qLkpNe9iUa3NcX4fpTSdZal9Nni_nxiG-szUVIx-ce4k4ylLN04dsyoJtZKsk6vB96qlXdJNLpqF7DeF/s1600/DSC01208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIWERNE0Ae_7BZKOxJ1wQMeOt2HvtCMGAULH4VnbHElEKeED0w2EAOyJxEeEW6qLkpNe9iUa3NcX4fpTSdZal9Nni_nxiG-szUVIx-ce4k4ylLN04dsyoJtZKsk6vB96qlXdJNLpqF7DeF/s400/DSC01208.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kYab445y8jWlgPDc_t-X3nm7IyMdTVLknE26TxI1LtW7jAV39oAtDeApaN96R-MulIlJ_89N2W_91Z41m5OjNuzeizvM3vXTkeiOV0dKR3ksVT47fPYPPX2a9mvUwTAOAfO61Cgq7Gix/s1600/DSC01207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4kYab445y8jWlgPDc_t-X3nm7IyMdTVLknE26TxI1LtW7jAV39oAtDeApaN96R-MulIlJ_89N2W_91Z41m5OjNuzeizvM3vXTkeiOV0dKR3ksVT47fPYPPX2a9mvUwTAOAfO61Cgq7Gix/s400/DSC01207.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katsu and crab croquette</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDupx7Z70bQDo2tYcnRe-WJ7vhvkmIWyQ-G2wIIJHVbxGuDH7mSbdLg9btOKsBAbKow1HXtYQ2QwnpBw1gHt4AE1FNesW2J1VAkpQewLFK7AI4L8kMEgAxGJZTf5fjFZxxuVN7nnazgQ2/s1600/DSC01209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZDupx7Z70bQDo2tYcnRe-WJ7vhvkmIWyQ-G2wIIJHVbxGuDH7mSbdLg9btOKsBAbKow1HXtYQ2QwnpBw1gHt4AE1FNesW2J1VAkpQewLFK7AI4L8kMEgAxGJZTf5fjFZxxuVN7nnazgQ2/s400/DSC01209.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potato croquette</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You get unlimited refills of barley rice, salad and miso soup. More importantly, the batter is excellent - crunchy and not too heavy. A good choice if you're a fan of katsu.<br />
<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span>
monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-25622195117706483852017-09-26T22:00:00.000+08:002017-09-27T20:55:11.999+08:00Ni deep in Kyoto<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 3 (Mon, 25 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-3c6d5b51-9e3e-9128-64fe-6bb2d695b9c0" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This day, we headed out bright and not-so-early to <a href="https://jp.openrice.com/en/tokyo/article/kyotos-kitchen-nishiki-market-food-shopping-street-a85" target="_blank">Nishiki Market</a>. This was going to be our brunch spot. We had a strategy - try lots of stuff until we were stuffed. Nishiki Market is an easy 5-minute walk from Shijo station.</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-3c6d5b51-9e3e-9128-64fe-6bb2d695b9c0" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPeDEfIwEot0e_LO0jBfnf0b8A6F8ocoUD8qM-NQ-EvE37P24ibdgmE-PNRhtsOIwEb_bvnN8WRZ631eiWHRDbdiS4alWPI-Rfjj2VVdSGDLESh3ko9-hvqRMA6isBZsTXfs25LMU502J/s1600/DSC00506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRPeDEfIwEot0e_LO0jBfnf0b8A6F8ocoUD8qM-NQ-EvE37P24ibdgmE-PNRhtsOIwEb_bvnN8WRZ631eiWHRDbdiS4alWPI-Rfjj2VVdSGDLESh3ko9-hvqRMA6isBZsTXfs25LMU502J/s400/DSC00506.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The market is basically one street of about 500m, with stalls on both sides selling anything from fresh seafood and snacks to fruit and vegetables, flowers and souvenirs. There's so much to see, it took us about 2 hours just to complete our round of the market.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PVCP9GbzaedETT7SXEkDLTBarKDFsIf3Sk7pzfImNXq3vQoGBKQQZuETLcDudpaYUqBu8kh_Wgi8lg4vTFkc4JpJQOE5d22OyhmklPTNyLBbouLRaeJWJzLCxIzRrTsIrqd8WAgXXYYD/s1600/DSC00537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PVCP9GbzaedETT7SXEkDLTBarKDFsIf3Sk7pzfImNXq3vQoGBKQQZuETLcDudpaYUqBu8kh_Wgi8lg4vTFkc4JpJQOE5d22OyhmklPTNyLBbouLRaeJWJzLCxIzRrTsIrqd8WAgXXYYD/s400/DSC00537.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVGTH6iZBUMdK1k7WT2iiZCXg1aa5CPXW8fsYM2KaZuwB5w6obmTjBFxbunaNvkAuujDqH-d81RytjjjaCb-7GwHXDV5pRp8MCtQWS3ZoRk5qwDgGZaPfMJTmMBHH8MiN_VJdP8jDn6UJ/s1600/DSC00543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVGTH6iZBUMdK1k7WT2iiZCXg1aa5CPXW8fsYM2KaZuwB5w6obmTjBFxbunaNvkAuujDqH-d81RytjjjaCb-7GwHXDV5pRp8MCtQWS3ZoRk5qwDgGZaPfMJTmMBHH8MiN_VJdP8jDn6UJ/s400/DSC00543.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfOfv-uL2ttdHWka5dTTOvBVHL7HjkgUHFn37O3sfssZGXYFHPE_gB0ZHvLN0_jsFfjoLQRNOwznGn-TeYcaZeLn_m2xG14l5hHr1AZSVRRiDz1ykhrVr3xIbRp008UNpV1-4JOgaICc0/s1600/DSC00556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfOfv-uL2ttdHWka5dTTOvBVHL7HjkgUHFn37O3sfssZGXYFHPE_gB0ZHvLN0_jsFfjoLQRNOwznGn-TeYcaZeLn_m2xG14l5hHr1AZSVRRiDz1ykhrVr3xIbRp008UNpV1-4JOgaICc0/s400/DSC00556.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwZmvHCPQAwGrrf3w-7mYfhK3B2NfGVDQtP3k_BsRyngcKywlEuyqJKdkJ67S825SBEFUswz4PgFFkqAX_mw70nncqvf6cXz8pECxg2XvZpp3CixRUDeEWFcHXhl0I3fG29J_iXHyDA6T/s1600/DSC00585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrwZmvHCPQAwGrrf3w-7mYfhK3B2NfGVDQtP3k_BsRyngcKywlEuyqJKdkJ67S825SBEFUswz4PgFFkqAX_mw70nncqvf6cXz8pECxg2XvZpp3CixRUDeEWFcHXhl0I3fG29J_iXHyDA6T/s400/DSC00585.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaf4jUnNuuqkpoQ-wpJz6JVmPzRba2Q9uyekDglA3tJoU40pPOcSQUN4fKMdEnGSWCmGleR2l_2r-AHi6XXC9a4EjuxgQCx_O0P86ZaC7EvDZjAwM4RHqN3dK-d0rwvMDDhC5gZN72ts-L/s1600/DSC00587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaf4jUnNuuqkpoQ-wpJz6JVmPzRba2Q9uyekDglA3tJoU40pPOcSQUN4fKMdEnGSWCmGleR2l_2r-AHi6XXC9a4EjuxgQCx_O0P86ZaC7EvDZjAwM4RHqN3dK-d0rwvMDDhC5gZN72ts-L/s400/DSC00587.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBFhTtPRb7hAHQN0jMcRh7LrDDr5jjiQSm6JCr1UjJGpeKF8Hkn1tnoebDlZ34eP2nimGLeNwOY0MceRQA4p7zZQtX1MqC2Q31Gi-c3F2WGsAmHzprmoMzr-DRfzaCgnvbY_ykNDOwnpz/s1600/DSC00607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizBFhTtPRb7hAHQN0jMcRh7LrDDr5jjiQSm6JCr1UjJGpeKF8Hkn1tnoebDlZ34eP2nimGLeNwOY0MceRQA4p7zZQtX1MqC2Q31Gi-c3F2WGsAmHzprmoMzr-DRfzaCgnvbY_ykNDOwnpz/s400/DSC00607.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxruuTXFGDRnODMStBEMYHL2Yc0mm2E-xcRQa6qbxo_c965TE3LDwo5w6ggIG2-kThBFo3bNurUM00NL2xsZFb1NY_lH7iStFx4acWxlKgbaMjXwRRzc3JcTUzcJ8JqHqDrpO0ZPXUtul/s1600/DSC00559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAxruuTXFGDRnODMStBEMYHL2Yc0mm2E-xcRQa6qbxo_c965TE3LDwo5w6ggIG2-kThBFo3bNurUM00NL2xsZFb1NY_lH7iStFx4acWxlKgbaMjXwRRzc3JcTUzcJ8JqHqDrpO0ZPXUtul/s400/DSC00559.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the first things we ate at the market was a soy bean cream croquette. We weren't expecting much since this was one of the first few stalls we came to (you know the old wives' tale - better quality and bargains further in!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJKMWiYklT_-H43J4EdwesRhLjXvpOvpmrTSgnkxJpTJfcybvo4H8XU_F-SJyioEXwc5KvS3CnhtX0U-cGG1AeWiZSFcCrzGC1zMeq1KVUHaXKk_kgJ_8Qkeo3VdOKQpMOEMgWEhvWC1N/s1600/DSC00519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJKMWiYklT_-H43J4EdwesRhLjXvpOvpmrTSgnkxJpTJfcybvo4H8XU_F-SJyioEXwc5KvS3CnhtX0U-cGG1AeWiZSFcCrzGC1zMeq1KVUHaXKk_kgJ_8Qkeo3VdOKQpMOEMgWEhvWC1N/s400/DSC00519.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Boy, were we wrong. The croquette was absolutely divine - so smooth, creamy and tasty. It's possibly the best croquette we've ever tasted and leaves regular potato croquettes in the dust. We went back and bought four more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnpKKylLDF1_gO74xMyi2-qf2EqM66wdw8idys9rchIal1P-Er0TwpK8jQR2uh06EdBZFxDCAggFx6XeRKdsbWk35-86idVx3HL4yGc39ZZgW3a3DSDAFxSqsCcoj5Ob3-JzkUZM4xA06/s1600/IMG_20170925_100800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilnpKKylLDF1_gO74xMyi2-qf2EqM66wdw8idys9rchIal1P-Er0TwpK8jQR2uh06EdBZFxDCAggFx6XeRKdsbWk35-86idVx3HL4yGc39ZZgW3a3DSDAFxSqsCcoj5Ob3-JzkUZM4xA06/s400/IMG_20170925_100800.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Some other things we tried: grilled eel and eel tempura from a stall that specialised in conger pike eel.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IfrXiw80D7FJh4NyepL6hFsuW5wRjNVImV2NQnb8zzTOy_JMC8fUpAjU3s6M1-RlpxkACv55SLsdW9CCurZ6ID4k_ePqfAJvShErvx3V9WdEPrK7-STB0b-2tRV-TGq9GT5FYaaMckaV/s1600/DSC00563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IfrXiw80D7FJh4NyepL6hFsuW5wRjNVImV2NQnb8zzTOy_JMC8fUpAjU3s6M1-RlpxkACv55SLsdW9CCurZ6ID4k_ePqfAJvShErvx3V9WdEPrK7-STB0b-2tRV-TGq9GT5FYaaMckaV/s400/DSC00563.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincUtx-Cpgf8OjV1zqdh5J1tlCVkQlr3Fg4ZDwbVrDB1BLnukGuhFpqhE4YJYEcNnsjl5OBubIosPb8DA4jKQcDcPnyLszUg5TV6UGwrAzKK0B_CEAp1QlIWgOsdJLjm1HZzDvG8ZCWGyF/s1600/DSC00567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEincUtx-Cpgf8OjV1zqdh5J1tlCVkQlr3Fg4ZDwbVrDB1BLnukGuhFpqhE4YJYEcNnsjl5OBubIosPb8DA4jKQcDcPnyLszUg5TV6UGwrAzKK0B_CEAp1QlIWgOsdJLjm1HZzDvG8ZCWGyF/s400/DSC00567.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Thick, fluffy rolled omelette. This is the savoury version, not the sweet type you tend to get on your sushi.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqQ4xedl7NbtM5gKpMM_vVJFlqp1k4ezzxRVB5fbwSW6hEIJPKbGYxAfOxi8OyeFuCx701eSEopyvnzEuJD89FQN9w8wrm8fnaQ1kY7Du4hfAfA45PGiChGBbT9ZxlhnzvPwGZNQDZn7Z/s1600/DSC00574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivqQ4xedl7NbtM5gKpMM_vVJFlqp1k4ezzxRVB5fbwSW6hEIJPKbGYxAfOxi8OyeFuCx701eSEopyvnzEuJD89FQN9w8wrm8fnaQ1kY7Du4hfAfA45PGiChGBbT9ZxlhnzvPwGZNQDZn7Z/s400/DSC00574.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Octopus stuffed with a quail egg.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSHIcl7aFT7So0YjBVrnEZk7-Efqi5Pn49prBsDFlRxAmnP4G5EGgBIMEDQeSZwUGiMX0GZ5Ud42YYqFlNhSM3WRmd3zwUkhmqlnA8QrRs_k7-X9w4LHLHrT7JTMk75YONzek_eTYctVZ/s1600/DSC00536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOSHIcl7aFT7So0YjBVrnEZk7-Efqi5Pn49prBsDFlRxAmnP4G5EGgBIMEDQeSZwUGiMX0GZ5Ud42YYqFlNhSM3WRmd3zwUkhmqlnA8QrRs_k7-X9w4LHLHrT7JTMk75YONzek_eTYctVZ/s400/DSC00536.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Grilled scallop in butter sauce that the stallholder sears on the spot. This was another item so delicious that we returned for another.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGvGKevlYrdGgC5fWQQiskN2y2cLsGF-9xJz0Aja7LxNxJRWeh7KrnLj3oGho1GpDLTab8Km3XF-kmrPVJZE8O_TthpLO6lwf9rwiltMaJ5BX2Ii5pFh6Dx6LVAo0RQ54q9Rwir4UklMb/s1600/DSC00642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVGvGKevlYrdGgC5fWQQiskN2y2cLsGF-9xJz0Aja7LxNxJRWeh7KrnLj3oGho1GpDLTab8Km3XF-kmrPVJZE8O_TthpLO6lwf9rwiltMaJ5BX2Ii5pFh6Dx6LVAo0RQ54q9Rwir4UklMb/s400/DSC00642.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcQv0Tni9uEJBkltwKNpKFecO27SfiapxkpvYoMmeDA_b7H0sXoOm8hCI8HCb-VlMa6EBvjHpqnFrL4NceWqdNH4fMVsRBkDCw4tuqM12uPA3Ifh3mU1-zzxvEg0_7rL3s3wDa3bc1_c7/s1600/DSC00600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRcQv0Tni9uEJBkltwKNpKFecO27SfiapxkpvYoMmeDA_b7H0sXoOm8hCI8HCb-VlMa6EBvjHpqnFrL4NceWqdNH4fMVsRBkDCw4tuqM12uPA3Ifh3mU1-zzxvEg0_7rL3s3wDa3bc1_c7/s400/DSC00600.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Crispy rice cracker that comes in a multitude of flavours.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEnG6L0k9F_KWaNYupi8yw5s-XvO6nU8yE9Dxmy2Sx7TXkJKqT2eEXXzPhQu4vxQyWWN5Zh2o5br_riXnRzGIUBXO3i2NtAcwVoWguHkznegyHcewFbHVRGL-uIpqyOwvdFEId0RZEX8T/s1600/DSC00658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEnG6L0k9F_KWaNYupi8yw5s-XvO6nU8yE9Dxmy2Sx7TXkJKqT2eEXXzPhQu4vxQyWWN5Zh2o5br_riXnRzGIUBXO3i2NtAcwVoWguHkznegyHcewFbHVRGL-uIpqyOwvdFEId0RZEX8T/s400/DSC00658.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Andre ordered a grape mochi that didn't look like much, but it actually contained two whole grapes! It was so sweet and succulent that he had to have another.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ptD0zva-JvonvPQvqO5zoySOjvzScO7hxH8IZ23cz5HiEj4LFs7nWdSs3qba3MAMNZOGFmUup1-2OHu130uxLV41tsWqurXvsiFdGA6P24q5NP5sHXNK1blE_73mrumCQ8vAecLhW8Qf/s1600/DSC00593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ptD0zva-JvonvPQvqO5zoySOjvzScO7hxH8IZ23cz5HiEj4LFs7nWdSs3qba3MAMNZOGFmUup1-2OHu130uxLV41tsWqurXvsiFdGA6P24q5NP5sHXNK1blE_73mrumCQ8vAecLhW8Qf/s400/DSC00593.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GXWhKRyAd3gspBajdoQvNf_N_fowVWlmIqBGlnWreovN1MTDYxsmmxXoaM466jvSSaP7L9KKi7jYVpq5gWTNWtLVJ5Y6lvxvdtGEqtqvF405Tm4QHB1RhVWMD1_dXYrEtrh4ExvF0LEb/s1600/DSC00635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GXWhKRyAd3gspBajdoQvNf_N_fowVWlmIqBGlnWreovN1MTDYxsmmxXoaM466jvSSaP7L9KKi7jYVpq5gWTNWtLVJ5Y6lvxvdtGEqtqvF405Tm4QHB1RhVWMD1_dXYrEtrh4ExvF0LEb/s400/DSC00635.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
A couple of things to note: first, eating at Nishiki Market is not cheap once you add up the costs for all the small bites of food, so be prepared. You probably won't get full unless you're prepared to spend a lot, but it's a great opportunity to try lots of different food.<br />
<br />
Two, when buying street food, you might be used to eating it on the go but in Japan, it's polite to eat what you buy next to or in the stall you bought it from, finishing it before moving on. Most of the stalls only have a little space inside or on the side with a couple of makeshift chairs. Enough to sit down for a little while and enjoy your snack.<br />
<br />
After so much eating, we decided to imbibe in a little culture by going to <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3918.html" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;" target="_blank">Nijo-jo Castle</a>. If you have your Kansai One Pass ICOCA card, you pay only Y500 instead of Y600 for the entry ticket. Built in 1603 during the Edo Period, it served as a home and office for the shogun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bZODqPpnr3FOpq_B4hZmRR4Qx9XgBFvO3uBHmUStJcWE3GdMaWObL6zJtFhKp0iYgkOQ99qWswsxPKsdbQ3uW31g2nhG6abjZ65CK4R7OP0bDllQDmJRI2PKGogvqsj2O1GsAvYV47U6/s1600/DSC00670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3bZODqPpnr3FOpq_B4hZmRR4Qx9XgBFvO3uBHmUStJcWE3GdMaWObL6zJtFhKp0iYgkOQ99qWswsxPKsdbQ3uW31g2nhG6abjZ65CK4R7OP0bDllQDmJRI2PKGogvqsj2O1GsAvYV47U6/s400/DSC00670.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYJQLiHhvEPosUT0-GhEcSylG6oMiiw8JuVITjv_w3tkKxgRcViELmKiYlNTBTgRfJheLM3Wydd5eV4RpT8CLLbogv_twKbGMh3IcHEa7WZJJK8n8iY53WY0anhO0hC8zqYsgRlMuY_RH/s1600/DSC00692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmYJQLiHhvEPosUT0-GhEcSylG6oMiiw8JuVITjv_w3tkKxgRcViELmKiYlNTBTgRfJheLM3Wydd5eV4RpT8CLLbogv_twKbGMh3IcHEa7WZJJK8n8iY53WY0anhO0hC8zqYsgRlMuY_RH/s400/DSC00692.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
What I found fascinating about the palace were the nightingale floors, named because they "sang" like birds when you stepped on them due to the way the nails were placed. According to Andre, he said the floors were built this way to prevent assassins from sneaking past the floors to their targets at night. It really did sound like birds singing! Photography is not allowed in the palace. This is outside the palace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sxuKP0zKVsrH2S_MUeEHM6ajVpoGqPBqAW5jOyxi8R6_SV4uFdMET6Oi4c84AMzxuzjUQmn2gsF0ypXnf7UtJq4EOW19548BrnNlT98uKqSuBXQKZ5S-FEiPd5YFloNllqItARrNdbzK/s1600/DSC00699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sxuKP0zKVsrH2S_MUeEHM6ajVpoGqPBqAW5jOyxi8R6_SV4uFdMET6Oi4c84AMzxuzjUQmn2gsF0ypXnf7UtJq4EOW19548BrnNlT98uKqSuBXQKZ5S-FEiPd5YFloNllqItARrNdbzK/s400/DSC00699.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The castle grounds are very picturesque. I can imagine how pretty it must be during autumn when the leaves change colour. Unfortunately for us, it was still summer so it got rather warm and there wasn't much shade except at the rest areas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEY-yjXV48fFCllGK5O4ZBMI0kAubYiELrMa37GlxNX5sTITenWDR0j3P83xq0lnfLKAz2dTJ-sPKNbHGboS5VS97PshWxDgfyf1mrhfp5VnIPaRZ3pEuwg8di_1ErnKjG2HUKRGp6o_YK/s1600/DSC00724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEY-yjXV48fFCllGK5O4ZBMI0kAubYiELrMa37GlxNX5sTITenWDR0j3P83xq0lnfLKAz2dTJ-sPKNbHGboS5VS97PshWxDgfyf1mrhfp5VnIPaRZ3pEuwg8di_1ErnKjG2HUKRGp6o_YK/s400/DSC00724.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTyT3WkC3TjLCcXRC5TDgfhNTKFG6S8SxF61RHXzDQf-x-SgLAVd7S9kICj5ecTAtExg_39eBi8Y0X67kYVjewH7UeNvPQ9msYHK9rUQM0I7ja2kzawHvHIn_n6AR7ABcLWEisf2SO4l2/s1600/DSC00720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVTyT3WkC3TjLCcXRC5TDgfhNTKFG6S8SxF61RHXzDQf-x-SgLAVd7S9kICj5ecTAtExg_39eBi8Y0X67kYVjewH7UeNvPQ9msYHK9rUQM0I7ja2kzawHvHIn_n6AR7ABcLWEisf2SO4l2/s400/DSC00720.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdRYFv90dm6SxvxPK2z06hRM9iQ1ceZPpJzmRDEnoJKFPqPqRULTAWAIsB6J6zNKolPRiIiVWcdHSTJrpEF_5alkkxk6bmS03G1uMEiEkEdxu7OOEEQ065Gth0JNjM9FwlCnvo87svd00/s1600/DSC00726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdRYFv90dm6SxvxPK2z06hRM9iQ1ceZPpJzmRDEnoJKFPqPqRULTAWAIsB6J6zNKolPRiIiVWcdHSTJrpEF_5alkkxk6bmS03G1uMEiEkEdxu7OOEEQ065Gth0JNjM9FwlCnvo87svd00/s400/DSC00726.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWMMv73SdKg7-KianSeMaxYA0MF-taoF7dP_PPlT8E3XnyVGFVLvmK8Sq1qYRP4ZLnjw9F5lWcNKSCH0t3vH8fuCvPYjOEyZLTOskBgTD_YT2o4rFcnt770Slih4yg_M8D4CdI_NX4XHW/s1600/DSC00750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWMMv73SdKg7-KianSeMaxYA0MF-taoF7dP_PPlT8E3XnyVGFVLvmK8Sq1qYRP4ZLnjw9F5lWcNKSCH0t3vH8fuCvPYjOEyZLTOskBgTD_YT2o4rFcnt770Slih4yg_M8D4CdI_NX4XHW/s400/DSC00750.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Cti0Yb5fwA9VwHkDOXsFOidRbOppn_u_VWxM2jiW8XGXa6YTTrEyercRKqYrtKTVh2Qw5ctrAMwOX1kW-cGwHuyQEz9A1bIR0nOLNM7xX7ZPmkOdQv42cfOewyc_g6Uzu1sMpo6wbdYN/s1600/DSC00776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Cti0Yb5fwA9VwHkDOXsFOidRbOppn_u_VWxM2jiW8XGXa6YTTrEyercRKqYrtKTVh2Qw5ctrAMwOX1kW-cGwHuyQEz9A1bIR0nOLNM7xX7ZPmkOdQv42cfOewyc_g6Uzu1sMpo6wbdYN/s400/DSC00776.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We were pretty tired after walking the castle grounds, so we took a cab back to the hotel.<br />
<br />
<b>Tip: </b>if you're a family of four, it may make more sense to take a cab instead of a train, especially for short distances. The fare for our trip from Nijo-jo Castle to RIHGA Royal Hotel was Y1,500 (about S$18). If we had taken a train to Kyoto statioin, it would have cost us Y1,040, so it's just a little less. <br />
<br />
After a couple of hours' rest at the hotel, we took the hotel shuttle bus to Kyoto station for dinner, which was at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g298564-d3823784-Reviews-Edogawa_Kintetsu_Kyoto_Station-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html" target="_blank">Edogawa</a>, an eel restaurant. The restaurant is located on the south west side of the station.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1iQ7M9CkziblWMW1cwDTqRgsq2fyPwl4lxSMKAF7H5Gr_pbcEoWaMc02XiWManLj74Pl_N31xpMfeKhqAVNr_KHZ8o2PuJf-ksiRxC8OQA7O_luCe53As_mdl58d_Tc-QgVP9mB3sd32/s1600/DSC00807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii1iQ7M9CkziblWMW1cwDTqRgsq2fyPwl4lxSMKAF7H5Gr_pbcEoWaMc02XiWManLj74Pl_N31xpMfeKhqAVNr_KHZ8o2PuJf-ksiRxC8OQA7O_luCe53As_mdl58d_Tc-QgVP9mB3sd32/s400/DSC00807.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Since they specialise in eel, we ordered eel - four sets of it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-K_o1Lw7pyxncihLNtYA5S3s6LdvLDF2WU9K3i-RlTZEC7wNWeMto-P6V6WhAqR9QnKEFjX1Txls-yuJuyOyPu1xfVa3OiOAd7RT9GtWhI_kT_0YuqX2yr8Y_y_I_I0b9LeKNzZaTIYhI/s1600/DSC00792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-K_o1Lw7pyxncihLNtYA5S3s6LdvLDF2WU9K3i-RlTZEC7wNWeMto-P6V6WhAqR9QnKEFjX1Txls-yuJuyOyPu1xfVa3OiOAd7RT9GtWhI_kT_0YuqX2yr8Y_y_I_I0b9LeKNzZaTIYhI/s400/DSC00792.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5Dk_Ap_zcHl_2mtOHbrmvojWB567s1w9nNhZdYzuUCuhGy-8gLhxdCxYVqUZ4ayPhj0_xFIyoR_nDTT2o91Lhd7KvW6RHncgwdzmea9m4D7nf3F_of0tGs0YHib2cFk-KNAX4DfyHRWb/s1600/DSC00795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5Dk_Ap_zcHl_2mtOHbrmvojWB567s1w9nNhZdYzuUCuhGy-8gLhxdCxYVqUZ4ayPhj0_xFIyoR_nDTT2o91Lhd7KvW6RHncgwdzmea9m4D7nf3F_of0tGs0YHib2cFk-KNAX4DfyHRWb/s400/DSC00795.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreo36v7zbx43-5beWrwPb9qGGNrI2RJRzDOfibxVxMo5G62mVWl5SlxsED4L8QA_LOtH-htzUUbGyuNebkZ-M4l5iVIhG_vxZPfnztod4rITMXkxIe-4zb-35US7pFlc_AAtS5Z24SRpj/s1600/DSC00801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreo36v7zbx43-5beWrwPb9qGGNrI2RJRzDOfibxVxMo5G62mVWl5SlxsED4L8QA_LOtH-htzUUbGyuNebkZ-M4l5iVIhG_vxZPfnztod4rITMXkxIe-4zb-35US7pFlc_AAtS5Z24SRpj/s400/DSC00801.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd96wrJ95Mo3PW5DwNjUMUG6P5fb823fVZ5Qstlu1mgCO3ID_DS1AyO-t4a46c-ouK6zoDymjhVeqKrkurgT1rusba79T1kpVQnatldSG3iuXZC72Yb3pE1TY_agGuqzL88TuOYsucxQ9/s1600/DSC00800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd96wrJ95Mo3PW5DwNjUMUG6P5fb823fVZ5Qstlu1mgCO3ID_DS1AyO-t4a46c-ouK6zoDymjhVeqKrkurgT1rusba79T1kpVQnatldSG3iuXZC72Yb3pE1TY_agGuqzL88TuOYsucxQ9/s400/DSC00800.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you want our honest opinion, the eel was good, but it didn't taste very different from the ones you can get back home in Singapore. Nevertheless, it was a tasty meal.<br />
<br />
After that, we went to Isetan to hunt for some fruit. There's a huge Isetan in Kyoto station - 11 floors with two basement levels of food. We quickly discovered that fruit is crazy expensive in Japan. Most fruit is sold singly, even bananas. An apple for Y200 (about S$2.50)! It must cost a bomb trying to get two servings of fruit here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqdHlzkNA40hr9q2T1TsEsGLFHRTnhOvkd33wLpEEoUNPD25TIGZbyZQ9m34wDrpnz5NoMSwl6Px0NGrkuDBfiJrVg4obshuwvDBY_tQ2_cAbQRP7o3fK15SK9V-hJyTOCJbvUH1JeIxc/s1600/DSC00786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgqdHlzkNA40hr9q2T1TsEsGLFHRTnhOvkd33wLpEEoUNPD25TIGZbyZQ9m34wDrpnz5NoMSwl6Px0NGrkuDBfiJrVg4obshuwvDBY_tQ2_cAbQRP7o3fK15SK9V-hJyTOCJbvUH1JeIxc/s400/DSC00786.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We decided to splurge on some massive high end black grapes at Y980 a punnet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyIPGMX8GJgBeenuCG3x4mVcwBnamd44E8_g6si9Yd-FMfOMjQSxKzgs0ybwzZdDUFqNsMKv2OVxxgYrczxsjspzrB5o4LuiAfQChUp_9G1XnsEO51m4siCCmTvG5eNaRPkv-5p_evIs6/s1600/DSC00789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMyIPGMX8GJgBeenuCG3x4mVcwBnamd44E8_g6si9Yd-FMfOMjQSxKzgs0ybwzZdDUFqNsMKv2OVxxgYrczxsjspzrB5o4LuiAfQChUp_9G1XnsEO51m4siCCmTvG5eNaRPkv-5p_evIs6/s400/DSC00789.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I've never bought grapes so precious that they come bubble-wrapped! They're large and very sweet, with a wine-like quality.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoOjLnidtNaqDUZbZVJoRa-QGz4Y3hwM5fr96TsaeE4zl4ZSU7qmwlTIfk1mKcx_tuYo9BxWuhLtBzgw27WPQ58Svsw9dxRfZdi5ONNBoOO73rngZh83Z_Tlo-19UhhK37RTKT6qpbxEW/s1600/DSC00813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoOjLnidtNaqDUZbZVJoRa-QGz4Y3hwM5fr96TsaeE4zl4ZSU7qmwlTIfk1mKcx_tuYo9BxWuhLtBzgw27WPQ58Svsw9dxRfZdi5ONNBoOO73rngZh83Z_Tlo-19UhhK37RTKT6qpbxEW/s400/DSC00813.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
We also bought a pack of three Chinese pears, so large that we could share one among the four of us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemd_V2kjx7hZfkP2EjYP98KjxtBW4jQD3ij8OY5lKd9032J6jIQiw_BfYYqSe7CdCZCgc3pPiTA5dRItNscyZEovw2SEAntC0haBhKC-Z3k_bfHTEPRpYry8b3xMQjP6uXUgT0cfEG9Fp/s1600/DSC00824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemd_V2kjx7hZfkP2EjYP98KjxtBW4jQD3ij8OY5lKd9032J6jIQiw_BfYYqSe7CdCZCgc3pPiTA5dRItNscyZEovw2SEAntC0haBhKC-Z3k_bfHTEPRpYry8b3xMQjP6uXUgT0cfEG9Fp/s400/DSC00824.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
A cheaper alternative to Isetan supermarket is Harves, located at the south west side of Kyoto station, ground floor. It offers fruit, dairy, drinks, snacks, even a small selection of ready-to-eat food at reasonable prices. Kyoto station really is a great place to stay close to - you can find anything here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfOx0uWaYdGbWVWKhSrjGXw3n0QfChh1VAIBEhL9evymw23J-qeVUsUrlMi4mjTX60khnSjKFujr5AqO5aO_OIxjaKHE3O-rqgX1yyvbGMzUr7i1CygnZiOUBx-KSKKwElBlwcmFJrzy9/s1600/DSC00818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfOx0uWaYdGbWVWKhSrjGXw3n0QfChh1VAIBEhL9evymw23J-qeVUsUrlMi4mjTX60khnSjKFujr5AqO5aO_OIxjaKHE3O-rqgX1yyvbGMzUr7i1CygnZiOUBx-KSKKwElBlwcmFJrzy9/s400/DSC00818.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9002654964976857070.post-34739478832813930672017-09-25T19:30:00.000+08:002017-10-01T16:29:01.384+08:00Exploring traditions in Kyoto<span style="font-weight: bold;">Day 2 (Sun, 24 September 2017)</span><br />
<br />
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-3c6d5b51-9e34-c6e9-9a5a-b9bf427e165d" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">In the morning, after a light breakfast of onigiri (rice balls) from Lawson, we took the last shuttle (10am) from Star Gate Hotel back to the airport to catch the train to Kyoto. (Note: You should book the shuttle bus the night before).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Travelling to Kyoto from Kansai Airport is very straightforward. The best deal we found was the</span></span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"> </span><a href="https://www.westjr.co.jp/global/en/ticket/icoca-haruka/" style="font-size: 14.6667px;" target="_blank">Haruka + ICOCA</a><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;">. Simple explanation: the "Haruka" is the direct fast train to Kyoto on the JR line. The ICOCA card is like our EZ-link card - it's a stored value card that you can use on all JR lines and subway. (It doesn't give you discounted travel compared to buying tickets individually though, it's just more convenient.) The Haruka + ICOCA deal is a special package for tourists - </span><span style="font-size: 14.6667px;">Y3,600 (about S$45) each person which includes a discounted one-way ticket to Kyoto and an ICOCA card with Y1,500 value + Y500 deposit. You can book the package <a href="https://entry.jr-odekake.net/webapp/form/18254_cabb_25/index.do" target="_blank">online</a> and just use your confirmation email to pick up your tickets at the Kansai JR rail station. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXyXRMx8AeCYa0cD-ouc1TrYqEHKBYQCXM-JbqpopztLR4Vf4f71nDkXlg6-RlBLpsxHDE2bh5u2l07nWThoYE7qiWHG-KA8v6lg9hTP0mGEY711wiRLBqcLaZ5sv1ZD-zDwB4xGBiLfX/s1600/DSC00284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXyXRMx8AeCYa0cD-ouc1TrYqEHKBYQCXM-JbqpopztLR4Vf4f71nDkXlg6-RlBLpsxHDE2bh5u2l07nWThoYE7qiWHG-KA8v6lg9hTP0mGEY711wiRLBqcLaZ5sv1ZD-zDwB4xGBiLfX/s400/DSC00284.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><i><b>Tip: </b>Where it says to choose the design of your ICOCA cards, pick "other options" and get the Kansai One pass (the one with Astro Boy). The value is the same but it's only for foreigners and gives you discounts at many tourist attractions.</i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBEbaAH9rcZZ_nNrX3_aiexLUdjirEq2gO9ppmYigUg4vxiUZasmruZEO9k03EzhUHVCClEuTS8_3_3I66xNWSITPQrhk-BsBEqhdA8ltmhvnBL2ItfhtUEUvQyaO4-WQrky5bq3Smu4A/s1600/DSC02058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBEbaAH9rcZZ_nNrX3_aiexLUdjirEq2gO9ppmYigUg4vxiUZasmruZEO9k03EzhUHVCClEuTS8_3_3I66xNWSITPQrhk-BsBEqhdA8ltmhvnBL2ItfhtUEUvQyaO4-WQrky5bq3Smu4A/s400/DSC02058.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><i></i></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"></span>
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;">The Haruka train operates every half an hour. You enter via Gate B and go to Platform 4 or 5. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xGtTqCjMCLVEZ3S2TI3hNne-3_kPudr0tgkIeyNB_nCSMPlpt_3k75y0Q9orxkeJIfMLd__VYPAK_DcC7DHL2VT02xi_rQ7Sq4CuYglq72kZ0IrZrV-kVSFusfBMbLIlB6VeigvZPBxu/s1600/DSC00285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xGtTqCjMCLVEZ3S2TI3hNne-3_kPudr0tgkIeyNB_nCSMPlpt_3k75y0Q9orxkeJIfMLd__VYPAK_DcC7DHL2VT02xi_rQ7Sq4CuYglq72kZ0IrZrV-kVSFusfBMbLIlB6VeigvZPBxu/s400/DSC00285.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
If you chose unreserved tickets like us, you can only board carriages 4,5 or 6. It's a smooth, 75-minute ride to Kyoto, with stops at Tennoji and Shin-Osaka in between. There's also free wifi on the train but we didn't need it because of our Changi wifi.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFpF7JvrPoqlxtzQDL96E-yhSh-0zXyeExErM09GXDjUDFDbJztzaoNjsim_xX2HDWuRpbCJFHghIbPrqyz2c7Dl-tji9oi1XDLNdFD0cZj3EVoRif7JziSh7aMIpEuFIgXanAoP31MXiE/s1600/IMG_20170924_104921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFpF7JvrPoqlxtzQDL96E-yhSh-0zXyeExErM09GXDjUDFDbJztzaoNjsim_xX2HDWuRpbCJFHghIbPrqyz2c7Dl-tji9oi1XDLNdFD0cZj3EVoRif7JziSh7aMIpEuFIgXanAoP31MXiE/s320/IMG_20170924_104921.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Kyoto Station is like the gateway to Kyoto. It is MASSIVE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xPn60pcNk18GSypXkFz88D0pQTsQWmzSsaMy9AHWoQXOtoJ2E9S9MkTSZfvLTRkqb02qwEQdT7pjL0MBYMda_rWiJG1_ftqx4EczYrL3hC0STGTFzxenUwkNbRb5W9QJhVfyZ4jhE7fU/s1600/DSC00301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-xPn60pcNk18GSypXkFz88D0pQTsQWmzSsaMy9AHWoQXOtoJ2E9S9MkTSZfvLTRkqb02qwEQdT7pjL0MBYMda_rWiJG1_ftqx4EczYrL3hC0STGTFzxenUwkNbRb5W9QJhVfyZ4jhE7fU/s400/DSC00301.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
The reason we had a light breakfast was because we had lunch all planned out. We were going to eat at <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/ShowUserReviews-g298564-d967638-r156257652-Musashi_Sushi-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html" style="font-size: 11pt;" target="_blank">Sushi no Musashi</a>, a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Confession: This is primarily a food trip. I looked up on Trip Advisor all the recommended eating places wherever we were going. Sometimes, it seems like I planned our meals around the sights more than the other way around. That's right, we are oinkers.<br />
<br />
Musashi is located near the Hachijo East exit, at the back of Kyoto station, street level. If you come out of this exit from the station, you should find it relatively easily but due to a small hiccup with our tickets, we came out of the Central exit and got completely lost in this maze called Kyoto station. After getting directions from the information counter, we finally made it but because it was then right smack during lunch time, we had to wait about half an hour for a table.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzSSniE8q1dNFsNLnPiYVkzaw5POwKTJ-f8cwMp6g4UplDTAXZHOfPjKIvr-DLgZi4Oj4wgBJjS_EhjALlwxivHx4iLVafdeBOSxW_fDvZOzMwsmswlLyUUx6a2AKHWxuqnZNHLynLo6W/s1600/DSC00342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzSSniE8q1dNFsNLnPiYVkzaw5POwKTJ-f8cwMp6g4UplDTAXZHOfPjKIvr-DLgZi4Oj4wgBJjS_EhjALlwxivHx4iLVafdeBOSxW_fDvZOzMwsmswlLyUUx6a2AKHWxuqnZNHLynLo6W/s400/DSC00342.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 11pt;">It's a small restaurant with just a row of seats around a conveyor belt. We had our two luggage bags with us and simply left them against the wall behind our seats (we were not the only patrons with luggage).</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinekiUlCqip_S2J664vTxRJygAS_wuGvAQsJjgulo6jqPBZRen8FsMLThhAwa2XPCKQGgwkauOgJe2Uriebzy2QQk_hrfldJRihUURzeQt6j70TGAJmxmpA0LVjWvGUX1OL2VykOCfgy5/s1600/20170924_122425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiinekiUlCqip_S2J664vTxRJygAS_wuGvAQsJjgulo6jqPBZRen8FsMLThhAwa2XPCKQGgwkauOgJe2Uriebzy2QQk_hrfldJRihUURzeQt6j70TGAJmxmpA0LVjWvGUX1OL2VykOCfgy5/s400/20170924_122425.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are only two prices: Y146 for regular plates and Y346 for premium (fully coloured) plates.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K_u5ayx5mO_wFv-oCedJ41AbXVZlQnWuqiwZap-yVPraV0bIdC0p9V_xRyJc54GKsceitQt5WBjWdbbOSZuYYx60wozSMsSRL-88orDK7tX3BunB9pxAFWpgQ4-f78QnKHL_2NAjensb/s1600/DSC00323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4K_u5ayx5mO_wFv-oCedJ41AbXVZlQnWuqiwZap-yVPraV0bIdC0p9V_xRyJc54GKsceitQt5WBjWdbbOSZuYYx60wozSMsSRL-88orDK7tX3BunB9pxAFWpgQ4-f78QnKHL_2NAjensb/s400/DSC00323.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5bXmXiAsUlc0bvh7I9WFE2PEDFzKaE5A_PO87E04yGT3CUx3w50mlQyw440oENWgVudq8RVKzr0pMIvvgBKZZoi58bxeSZCBCyFWJ4mG4HDusnQ4SfMQzeCavbouJzs9zk9l4YPoOUvh/s1600/DSC00319.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5bXmXiAsUlc0bvh7I9WFE2PEDFzKaE5A_PO87E04yGT3CUx3w50mlQyw440oENWgVudq8RVKzr0pMIvvgBKZZoi58bxeSZCBCyFWJ4mG4HDusnQ4SfMQzeCavbouJzs9zk9l4YPoOUvh/s400/DSC00319.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">The sushi was super fresh and delicious. The moment we sat down, we started grabbing plates off the belt - sea bream, tuna, scallops, crab, prawns, pike, shellfish, etc etc. The scallops were sublime - so juicy and sweet.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1GaHHDFq3cXwdzVhSY-We4pAN78F5VDcuaL1Wnmz2nykdzAHNTOXqPeT5pAvrGtWJGNhlvJDassIXZKkOZhYl2cQmLe5iiakzhuEUib0HxoLosfLLbvAHZk-M_lKopcjXnWhDvD2kuKD/s1600/20170924_121020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1GaHHDFq3cXwdzVhSY-We4pAN78F5VDcuaL1Wnmz2nykdzAHNTOXqPeT5pAvrGtWJGNhlvJDassIXZKkOZhYl2cQmLe5iiakzhuEUib0HxoLosfLLbvAHZk-M_lKopcjXnWhDvD2kuKD/s400/20170924_121020.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">Before we knew it, we had wolfed down 42 plates in under 20 minutes. Such pigs we are.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3vfEbYh8SDGYtd1F58J2xKFJz83WQ9P1CSn5qH64_jq0s6AN0iaYDnL1M9zew0VkJC0VS41ZwVhY5D9GNu0Dpzfh8Ge2DHFoHcRzmvu3q8dzJsfOzVREieizUSd8DJcQQTOy2vGCps03/s1600/DSC00338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT3vfEbYh8SDGYtd1F58J2xKFJz83WQ9P1CSn5qH64_jq0s6AN0iaYDnL1M9zew0VkJC0VS41ZwVhY5D9GNu0Dpzfh8Ge2DHFoHcRzmvu3q8dzJsfOzVREieizUSd8DJcQQTOy2vGCps03/s400/DSC00338.JPG" width="265" /></span></a></div>
<br />
After lunch, we headed for our hotel. When researching hotels, I explored those close to Kyoto station. This was for ease of transport. The one I settled on was <span style="font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://www.rihgaroyalkyoto.com/" target="_blank">RIHGA Royal Hotel</a>. In general, I find that for a family of 4, you get a better class of hotel for a similar price if you can find a family room, rather than 2 twin rooms. RIHGA Royal Hotel offered an attractive rate for a family room ($298 a night before taxes) although you should probably know that I booked this way ahead of time, in February, so I enjoyed an early bird rate.</span><br />
<br />
RIHGA is a 7-minute walk from Kyoto station but it offers a free shuttle bus to the hotel from Kyoto station and vice versa, every 15 minutes. The bus stop is at the Hachijo exit, near McDonald's.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39HEP99ujMcZXZ9W0eeIKXlEH_HUVcdcOdNvBCIDjfq_bm842PxU0O13E2yCeYuIMJDRE02dNTyzMIUN5IDxEusmn735mGp5rsrtgT73eel4oiRQuYwdk9XGFjy-AqRgtyB5InV-7VRBN/s1600/20170924_114802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39HEP99ujMcZXZ9W0eeIKXlEH_HUVcdcOdNvBCIDjfq_bm842PxU0O13E2yCeYuIMJDRE02dNTyzMIUN5IDxEusmn735mGp5rsrtgT73eel4oiRQuYwdk9XGFjy-AqRgtyB5InV-7VRBN/s400/20170924_114802.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<br />
Again, like with Star Gate Hotel, the bus ran like clockwork. Once, the bus arrived slightly late and the poor bus driver frantically loaded luggage at top speed, like a panicky elf, still smiling and nodding to passengers all the while. We felt stressed for him as he finally pulled away from the bus stop...1 minute late.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuNl4n1qhr1bd5kdfJmM7pRK87rme457UJAZpO0LiDpHv6Zn-5ALu-FpTCcOw9nLYhsW6QzC-GeNyz7tXih5nEC8T5aaXUoupy2hKdg03uT1qyfAOfzrVAs4hsLpEyxd-qPjXMc5JorGnQ/s1600/DSC00343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuNl4n1qhr1bd5kdfJmM7pRK87rme457UJAZpO0LiDpHv6Zn-5ALu-FpTCcOw9nLYhsW6QzC-GeNyz7tXih5nEC8T5aaXUoupy2hKdg03uT1qyfAOfzrVAs4hsLpEyxd-qPjXMc5JorGnQ/s400/DSC00343.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 11pt;">The RIHGA family room is a dream. Just look at it! Four beds with a living area in the centre. In a country where tiny hotel rooms are the norm, it's unreal to have the luxury of space, without breaking the bank, especially in such a convenient location. The kids were delighted.</span>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br />
<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-3c6d5b51-9e79-e377-f573-aaabc77a7958" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduo0Yb74N6uyZ5LAD2_tKtg5eElWhfMWEW1iaW31PTqgG_wytxYNLOjw5S8x9cr6AuYGRhz5swmYcuG-I_BmxCANKK8_owsw_C6C5o5b-ksfsPoJ9djlnYMsrUFnofpFdZRmeu9Cb1Qik/s1600/DSC00359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgduo0Yb74N6uyZ5LAD2_tKtg5eElWhfMWEW1iaW31PTqgG_wytxYNLOjw5S8x9cr6AuYGRhz5swmYcuG-I_BmxCANKK8_owsw_C6C5o5b-ksfsPoJ9djlnYMsrUFnofpFdZRmeu9Cb1Qik/s400/DSC00359.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
The bathroom has TWO shower stalls and two sinks, and the toilet is in another separate room.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CYvGHlsfVbyv2XHHb6OY3KPEvewQHIdwH9UqsIqtpGbbbqtJ-uYcWRTdqkwgvxAaGWj3KFTIIMG7SDWkePRk6akgcrKkhiCUlJ27tEKaT-buWklvvBJxzakjscVghjGjwv6d8NSdV4kK/s1600/DSC00360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5CYvGHlsfVbyv2XHHb6OY3KPEvewQHIdwH9UqsIqtpGbbbqtJ-uYcWRTdqkwgvxAaGWj3KFTIIMG7SDWkePRk6akgcrKkhiCUlJ27tEKaT-buWklvvBJxzakjscVghjGjwv6d8NSdV4kK/s400/DSC00360.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
After a short rest, we made our way down to Gion, the traditional geisha district of Kyoto. So I had mapped out this great walking trail from Gion to Pontocho, with our two dinners (yes, two!) planned to flow seamlessly in this fantastic plan. But as usual, things seldom go according to plan and I managed to lead us in the wrong direction from the start.<br />
<br />
Anyway, you don't need to know all how we fumbled our way through Gion - here's my original plan and if you like, you can try and do it right!<br />
<br />
Take a train to Gion-Shijo station. Walk along Shijo Dori, You'll pass Kasagen, the oldest umbrella in Kyoto (from 1861). Walk to Hanamikoji Dori, where you will see in the corner, Ichiriki-tei - a famous teahouse in Japan where geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) entertain clients.<br />
<br />
Walk to Gion Corner, a sort of visitor centre where tourists can watch performances by local maiko as well as demonstrations of other traditional arts such as tea ceremony, bungaku puppet theatre and ikebana flower arranging. You can see exhibits of artefacts in Gion Corner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYRcEw4CEdCJSnUJ8pxVo6zyWrSMR-82nRM04Ts3GSIgUYE1kHwAma786y35yt3_v2ljyQ5XWelx-lTTGG_WleW8LrfySfoLSGzJGQt26mraV4bWVvB5bU4LJoLy-P6bOl0k-TawZizup/s1600/DSC00485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzYRcEw4CEdCJSnUJ8pxVo6zyWrSMR-82nRM04Ts3GSIgUYE1kHwAma786y35yt3_v2ljyQ5XWelx-lTTGG_WleW8LrfySfoLSGzJGQt26mraV4bWVvB5bU4LJoLy-P6bOl0k-TawZizup/s400/DSC00485.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFNXA9V464jcwp-X4tXmb-MmSh2Vk2qKkINSO2od_CwucFlVLKwGWYkygtScvZzGqwtf5CdkkOKIiHkS1bNVsdS-H7DiHPIu_Q-Kmm1uhpCHfD36WDrK9fT2VpWq0cvHOcZZHl7GVkwI3X/s1600/DSC00488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFNXA9V464jcwp-X4tXmb-MmSh2Vk2qKkINSO2od_CwucFlVLKwGWYkygtScvZzGqwtf5CdkkOKIiHkS1bNVsdS-H7DiHPIu_Q-Kmm1uhpCHfD36WDrK9fT2VpWq0cvHOcZZHl7GVkwI3X/s400/DSC00488.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wooden clogs worn by geishas</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Proceed to Yanagi Ochaya, built on the former site of the Willow Palace which was home of Emperor Sutoku's (1119-64) favourite concubine, Awa no Naishi. Walk along Yamato Oji-dori which has a row of shops selling traditional Japanese shoes and jewelry. Walk past Minami-za,the most prestigious kabuki theatre in Kyōto.
<br />
<br />
Cross the canal to Pontocho, whichis the second largest <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">hanamachi (geisha district)</span> in Kyōto. It's very pretty - you can see people picnicking and cycling along the river banks.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPKrPhWjzq4xYQprA5ncLfXmPFo6gtD8Kk8BPEOcRSTAUcwUcjGrGGwvUmPcHjdy1H5LVty6f7NeIEqUoMM2Su1M30APV3tnOzQp23U4pi6q2-lsHjAizRmc8bJalKzyHS-JscOB1lYbE/s1600/DSC00369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikPKrPhWjzq4xYQprA5ncLfXmPFo6gtD8Kk8BPEOcRSTAUcwUcjGrGGwvUmPcHjdy1H5LVty6f7NeIEqUoMM2Su1M30APV3tnOzQp23U4pi6q2-lsHjAizRmc8bJalKzyHS-JscOB1lYbE/s400/DSC00369.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
Each hanamachi has its own crest and Pontochō's is the plover, a bird which used to live in the waters nearby. The crest can be seen on red paper lanterns hanging outside <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">ochaya<i> </i></span>and provides one way of spotting the teahouses among the other traditional buildings.
<br />
<br />
In the narrow streets, it's not uncommon to see geisha in evening going to engagements. We didn't see any, though we saw many people dressed up like geishas.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1I5MfV-UBPG7fdGp2dxitr1MtfwYIsAaLBwt0EfdyyKQxR3zoXgqYUsHM-h4IGLVWlXZ5NzW67uYR1y0QQjYsAWEUR71q1mjVPe2MbIshaRFlFxCFUuvocpzm4yUgTEuoabETvlPa86n/s1600/DSC00378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL1I5MfV-UBPG7fdGp2dxitr1MtfwYIsAaLBwt0EfdyyKQxR3zoXgqYUsHM-h4IGLVWlXZ5NzW67uYR1y0QQjYsAWEUR71q1mjVPe2MbIshaRFlFxCFUuvocpzm4yUgTEuoabETvlPa86n/s400/DSC00378.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Remember I mentioned 2 dinners? Well, in the course of my research, I came across 2 restaurants that received a lot of good reviews. One was a specialty tofu restaurant, since Kyoto is known for tofu, and another was a 170-year-old restaurant specialising in Kyoto-style sushi. We couldn't decide which to go to, so we decided to go to both. Oink.</div>
<br />
The tofu restaurant is <a href="http://ikidane-nippon.com/en/interest/togaden-a-tofu-restaurant" target="_blank">Togaden</a> in Pontocho.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2xpREo2hEKpinWzdWGkJKon6o39-LPF-2DJOSs-wdmvMKgcsWA8qotlsjZS6SduC5BtPGnq31S_LMf2TyT-rdRCR_I2kVtOsYbpdkZpO-C2xjRbrHQLpIUnwUN3QBkVXKHenyEGSzrMk/s1600/DSC00413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt2xpREo2hEKpinWzdWGkJKon6o39-LPF-2DJOSs-wdmvMKgcsWA8qotlsjZS6SduC5BtPGnq31S_LMf2TyT-rdRCR_I2kVtOsYbpdkZpO-C2xjRbrHQLpIUnwUN3QBkVXKHenyEGSzrMk/s400/DSC00413.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
We weren't too hungry after such a big lunch, so we only ordered a few snacks.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPQDvKPpXhevGhvwmC9l23JJpk1p5fC3DhRTMzpRcRISKeucO-7Msvj2YsekS8L9bt3O9RSVz32XYDv0-SuWOJgZmDVvpp3Toxeo-bqmh9kKrtv2I3ZrmbBlB2TgiYkV1c_3kcJArG7oa/s1600/DSC00415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPQDvKPpXhevGhvwmC9l23JJpk1p5fC3DhRTMzpRcRISKeucO-7Msvj2YsekS8L9bt3O9RSVz32XYDv0-SuWOJgZmDVvpp3Toxeo-bqmh9kKrtv2I3ZrmbBlB2TgiYkV1c_3kcJArG7oa/s400/DSC00415.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tofu doughnuts and soya bean milk</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStg3b5B5AbgYbEoxvvz_qIXc0tr0HD_UoKCBdY1UJB23OwBkxCG07vhync1yoqDWGfvYIa-ABTjhC57bagugX1_lQ0ahQ61KruD-_N5FYfKwJdvz1XGsLqM41aaP80-TuJjn_PZCpyIWF/s1600/DSC00417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgStg3b5B5AbgYbEoxvvz_qIXc0tr0HD_UoKCBdY1UJB23OwBkxCG07vhync1yoqDWGfvYIa-ABTjhC57bagugX1_lQ0ahQ61KruD-_N5FYfKwJdvz1XGsLqM41aaP80-TuJjn_PZCpyIWF/s400/DSC00417.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yuba (soya bean milk tofu) sashimi</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Np-GnEVdj1q_uBjZlPQvLAFGYzBk2FM3niHiyO-ZLJXVbFLP3D6EeTKa2_6Tx1oW9Fm9MXfLFPH3MBFb1ywNaGH8-rncMlp7KfGqJthogk3lFG2qBGds3L8cBxk_LOIG_M-7Kou8U-kX/s1600/DSC00420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Np-GnEVdj1q_uBjZlPQvLAFGYzBk2FM3niHiyO-ZLJXVbFLP3D6EeTKa2_6Tx1oW9Fm9MXfLFPH3MBFb1ywNaGH8-rncMlp7KfGqJthogk3lFG2qBGds3L8cBxk_LOIG_M-7Kou8U-kX/s400/DSC00420.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tofu croquette</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The yuba sashimi was lovely. It's like eating a very smooth and thick layer of tau huay. The soya bean milk is very thick and rich. I wasn't crazy about the croquette as it had a beany taste, like a chickpea patty, but Kenneth and Lesley-Anne liked it. The doughnuts tasted like...doughnuts. I would say that unless you're a huge tofu lover, you can probably give this place a miss.<br />
<br />
Our second dinner venue was <a href="http://izujugion.wixsite.com/izuju" style="font-size: 14.6667px;" target="_blank">Izuju</a> at the end of Shijo Dori in Gion (opposite the Yasaka Shrine). Many food bloggers have blogged about this restaurant. It's almost a historic landmark itself, specialising in Kyoto-style sushi, which is very different from the type of sushi we know. In the olden days when people were poorer, more rice was used compared to fish and the shape of the sushi was square instead of rounded, so more could fit into square boxes. The fish is also mostly cured instead of fresh.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkuOtlsX9SQ-95NXocFCct492k65gnMehPTww0nJT2CYEr3X-rKMJP-gq9T4NqOokVcNIbbQe5L7U_26c6z_TQUA01sFLlJ9ZO7Tgr-8q6mKLMxUtlskUqMfp7Y98nY1C4_kT5gw6aPHp/s1600/DSC00454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkuOtlsX9SQ-95NXocFCct492k65gnMehPTww0nJT2CYEr3X-rKMJP-gq9T4NqOokVcNIbbQe5L7U_26c6z_TQUA01sFLlJ9ZO7Tgr-8q6mKLMxUtlskUqMfp7Y98nY1C4_kT5gw6aPHp/s400/DSC00454.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
It's a small restaurant with only a few tables. Very traditional decor and quaint interior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBUjqC4A4G-1C0zYlMWw_ufOwEdMprg-QFQm6ku5TgAEoijY5a9OhJCEcDlsPWc7URrf5Vk3jlJDJntaFexM4XmoMRalapr0tZPwLV_NHwIJY9dNHPq2g11adfzhI80xGhVZfxrMhJioB/s1600/DSC00439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBUjqC4A4G-1C0zYlMWw_ufOwEdMprg-QFQm6ku5TgAEoijY5a9OhJCEcDlsPWc7URrf5Vk3jlJDJntaFexM4XmoMRalapr0tZPwLV_NHwIJY9dNHPq2g11adfzhI80xGhVZfxrMhJioB/s400/DSC00439.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH1cCozt1xnlQXX3O_yv3ICn1qEoqfTrnqZPAD1UfMv_GZSDNp-cmkyz5dMFImc8yT0j5Zt-QtCeyhnVo8chyNzhy0VM79bOppTbW4oM9JRsYQ61wghDj02spqRIU7dGFwzD6gJHjw7_i/s1600/DSC00443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrH1cCozt1xnlQXX3O_yv3ICn1qEoqfTrnqZPAD1UfMv_GZSDNp-cmkyz5dMFImc8yT0j5Zt-QtCeyhnVo8chyNzhy0VM79bOppTbW4oM9JRsYQ61wghDj02spqRIU7dGFwzD6gJHjw7_i/s400/DSC00443.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
What you need to know is that if you're going to eat in the restaurant, they expect you to order at least one dish per person. This meant that we ordered more than we intended to, even though we weren't that hungry. The presentation was lovely. They put all your orders in one large platter. We had the famous inari-zushi (beancurd skin), saba sushi, aji sushi and maki.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFp1oEAM9wjuBnt6iviXHfeCN9P5MS9kXVwX2_xJayNNEN_xJjP7wnBjjTZOBxzsZvN0VBodEBgd4IK2LnJhdf8IugmWvGBnVLoMVHT4WkWlKhrne0vcKEZDzFiEL7pmEHoRNDpPPdq8eD/s1600/DSC00447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFp1oEAM9wjuBnt6iviXHfeCN9P5MS9kXVwX2_xJayNNEN_xJjP7wnBjjTZOBxzsZvN0VBodEBgd4IK2LnJhdf8IugmWvGBnVLoMVHT4WkWlKhrne0vcKEZDzFiEL7pmEHoRNDpPPdq8eD/s400/DSC00447.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<br />
This is saba (mackerel) sushi. It's wrapped in a sliver of seaweed that you have to remove before eating.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ccKtt-WFBbEfe93urXnTGcCN4AuZAi4I4lrqvimWySWyt1a5GF2Cv6wOsxaUZggVF55F1GXa4l0oxj75lx4oa05aVLZ_xUaaXCmvhJmCQgFVjlXKttV-bw7a5hQcZYG97sdFhwjr2bia/s1600/DSC00450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ccKtt-WFBbEfe93urXnTGcCN4AuZAi4I4lrqvimWySWyt1a5GF2Cv6wOsxaUZggVF55F1GXa4l0oxj75lx4oa05aVLZ_xUaaXCmvhJmCQgFVjlXKttV-bw7a5hQcZYG97sdFhwjr2bia/s400/DSC00450.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Kyoto-style sushi needs getting used to. Because most of the fish is cured, it has a vinegary taste. The inari was delicious - much nicer than the bland ones you get in Singapore, and I don't even like bean curd! Note: If you're used to the Tokyo type of sushi, you might not like the sushi here. We wanted to try traditional Japanese food, so it was a great experience for us. By the way, we thought we had too much food but we ended up finishing everything anyway 😋</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After that, we took the subway back to Kyoto station. Here's an ethereal shot Lesley-Anne took of Andre in an underground train corridor. So Matrix-like.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0KRTbNVoq2DOA7pek3g9ERmB1cK0dc6pzAIrLpW12njta-YwKrotodzGl4JSpt0FKCXrjKyGOA6czcbKwVGbfX9u0seEHWBLQBr8na5FLLfZ2OQy6_aRjWl9kw7sTbRktR5QQwmH02c1/s1600/DSC00497.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0KRTbNVoq2DOA7pek3g9ERmB1cK0dc6pzAIrLpW12njta-YwKrotodzGl4JSpt0FKCXrjKyGOA6czcbKwVGbfX9u0seEHWBLQBr8na5FLLfZ2OQy6_aRjWl9kw7sTbRktR5QQwmH02c1/s400/DSC00497.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dessert before returning to the hotel - matcha ice cream from a specialty matcha shop near the shuttle bus stop. Because our food adventures never end.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEC2iSo7gBDIzB9QIIcPkxQRAQiEG3LYHHpcWVx-DbQWM18EpjrAF4RG8ppYXYt5EyG22cCIjTF96i7YarW0rtY7N9kmm07AHQDy4b-nUMqKMGUF6SexDtmtzLra3lVnx52RP8weytRzJ/s1600/DSC00504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMEC2iSo7gBDIzB9QIIcPkxQRAQiEG3LYHHpcWVx-DbQWM18EpjrAF4RG8ppYXYt5EyG22cCIjTF96i7YarW0rtY7N9kmm07AHQDy4b-nUMqKMGUF6SexDtmtzLra3lVnx52RP8weytRzJ/s400/DSC00504.JPG" width="265" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
monlimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17397210688200284987noreply@blogger.com0