Seville, Spain - Myra Arrives

We left Portugal and crossed back into Spain, specifically to the grand city of Seville. The weather has been less than grand, with light rain showers off and on, but it's reasonably warm. We're renting an apartment in a real, nontouristy neighborhood, which, though not as centrally located, allows us to prepare most of our own meals, do laundry, and have a bit more room to stretch out than in your typical hotel room. The day after we arrived here we happily met Myra at the Seville airport. For the third year running she is joining us on our big winter trip – this time at the very tail end. She will even fly home on the same flight as us in less than two weeks time. She should be able to just shake the jet lag by the time we fly back again.

This is Myra's first time in Europe so now she is getting acquainted with the wonderful world of Roman walls, Moorish palaces, giant cathedrals, cafe culture and bidets. The three of us had terrific and informative walking tours of Seville's historic center and cathedral. A few photographic highlights, shot through the drizzle, follow:

A bit of Seville's medieval wall remains


Myra and Deborah



Near our apartment at sunset


These fancy dresses go for 600-800 euros ($840-1100) and are worn once or twice. Accessories not included.


In case you forgot, Spain is one hour ahead of Portugal.


As elsewhere in Spain, Mary is a superstar here.



The cathedral


Inside the cathedral, third largest in the world.


Also inside the cathedral, in a rare elliptical domed room.


These oranges, collected from the many city trees, are just thrown away. If they are the wrong species, or if they are not properly cared for, the oranges taste bitter. After a taste test we can verify this.


Horse poop and tourists.