We’re finally getting over our “jet lag” & starting to accomplish some things here at home. We did have a wonderful trip. Everything went well – our apartments in Madrid & Lisbon were great & very well-located. It was so nice to have them for a home base. Madrid is a fascinating city – lots of museums & history. And surprises along the way like the day of the “Sheep Running” along with shepherds, dancers & music right down a street leading up to Plaza Mayor! We were so pleased that we got to go to Toledo & Segovia (and yes, we did have the roasted suckling pig at Jose Maria’s, which is supposed to be one of the best places..quite an experience.) Another experience was the sleeper compartment on the train. Worked out quite well. Our only rainy day was in Lisbon, but we just trudged on & went out to see the Belem tower and tour around that area. The side trip on Monday to visit the coastal area of Portugal was a real success and we had a great tour guide. We were very impressed with the friendliness of the Portuguese people.
The Douro River Tour was even better than we expected. Everything about the ship was lovely and the crew was so attentive. We enjoyed all the different wine tours and the special dinner at the monastery. We never knew there was so much to learn about port wine. And the other wine they produce is also good. The weather was great and one day we had a tour up on the top of a hillside with a lovely view of the vineyards and the valley with the Douro River below – so many different tapas & snacks, they called it a “picnic.” The countryside was so beautiful. One amazing thing happened on our second evening on the ship. Cesario Santos, our cruise manager, offered the Roehs and us an upgrade in our rooms. There were 2 larger rooms available on the 3rd deck with a balcony & since we had traveled with AMA so many times they moved us up there. (Also the 4 of us were invited to the Captain’s table on the last night) We really enjoyed the “luxury”! Cesario took care of us in so many ways, like making sure the 8 of us could always be on the same bus for tours.
Larry did a great job with his email – so glad he included you on the list. Jack & I are going to Houston Weds.to be with all our family for Thanksgiving. Our grandson David & his wife are hosting at their house this year & everyone will be there. We’ll be back Fri. and it will already be time to think about Christmas!
Thanks for all your part in making this a special trip! We’d love to visit with you when you have some free time.
Jack and Cynthia spent time in Lisbon and Madrid and enjoyed the Douro River Tour. We’re so happy you had a great time!
