Europe Trip #2

Europe Trip #2 took me to Madrid> Athens>Santorini, Venice, Italy>Amsterdam>London and it came about from the opportunity to see the then Oakland Raiders Vs. The Chicago Bears in London at the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2019. My brotha Danny met me at the last 2 spots of the trip in Amsterdam and London. I booked my entire trip using google for flights, hotels, air b n b and museum tickets. (no travel agent) The first stop was Madrid, Spain. Here is the street view from the hotel I was staying at La Posada del Dragon every room had a different color and theme it was located in the popular La Llorona District euro cost was about 125 a night and it happen to have the best Sangria I've ever had.

The food I found to be better in Madrid than Barcelona.

The Museums and culture really exceeded my expectations. I really enjoyed the Flamenco / Dinner show I attended. I didn't use a flash as to not ruin the moment.

Guernica, Pablo Picasso.

Madrid is also home to the oldest restaurant in the world the Sobrino de Boten has been serving up cochinillo aside (roast piglet) since 1725.

I had the fish casserole.

Food I find to be a focal point when traveling in knowing the culture and taste of the city, growing up I really admired Anthony Bourdain's adventure spirit and taste in food. I try to at least go to a one place in my destinations if Bourdain ate there. Because I figured if it was good enough for Anthony it'll be enough for me as well. Here at the Salvador in Madrid since 1941 I was able to sit where he sat.

I always order what he had at each location, I started with the fried cod fish with fries and finished with the oxtail and vegetables in amazing sauce.

I visited the Royal Palace of Madrid the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. It has 1,450,00 sq. ft. of floor space and contains 3,418 rooms and is the largest royal palace in Europe.

Visited the Temple of Debod an ancient Egyptian temple that was dismantled as part of the international campaign to save the monuments of Nudia and rebuilt in the center of Madrid.

The architecture of Madrid reflects a number of styles from various historical periods.

The Puerta de Sol Madrid serves as the kilometer zero from which all radial roads in Spain are Measured.

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is one of the world's oldest cities, with its recorded history spanning over 3,400 years. It is widely known for its significant contributions to art, philosophy, and democracy.

Athens is often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization due to its influential role in the develHistorical Significanceopment of democracy and philosophy. It was home to many great philosophers, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

The Guards of the Unknown Tomb, also known as the Evzones, are a ceremonial unit in Greece that stands guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located in front of the Greek Parliament building in Syntagma Square, Athens. This site is a significant national monument, honoring the soldiers who lost their lives in various conflicts.

The Temple of Zeus, also known as the Olympieion, was a monumental temple in ancient Greece dedicated to the god Zeus. Located in Athens, it was one of the largest temples of the ancient world and a significant symbol of the city's religious life.

History

The construction of the temple began in the 6th century BC but was not completed until the 2nd century AD during the reign of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The temple was designed by the architect Callimachus and featured a grandiose structure with 104 Corinthian columns.

here is me in front of it

The site of the Olympics in Athens, Greece, is primarily associated with the Panathenaic Stadium, also known as Kallimarmaro. This historic stadium was originally built in 330 BC and renovated for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

The Pantheon is a significant architectural marvel located in Athens, Greece, specifically on the Acropolis. It is a testament to ancient Greek civilization and its influence on architecture and culture.

The Pantheon was originally built as a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patroness of the city. Its construction dates back to the 5th century BC, during the height of Athenian power.

Then it was off for the reason i came to Greece.

This was my view from my room in Santorini, Greece

Everywhere you walked in Oai, Santorini the colors always popped at me giving way for beautiful shots all over the Caldera.

Santorini, known for its stunning whitewashed buildings and breathtaking views, is one of the most picturesque islands in the Aegean Sea. Here are some highlights and attractions that make this destination unique.

its all right if its all white.

Chaka would have field day on all these white canvases

Living my best life in Santorini, this place is a stunning island located in the Aegean Sea, known for its dramatic landscapes, white-washed buildings, and breathtaking sunsets. It is part of the Cyclades group of islands and is famous for its volcanic history and unique architecture.

The money shot! now i know why people come here to get married, honeymoons and anniversaries. it truly is the most romantic place i have ever been too. it will take your breath away.

The views are endless

Everywhere you look amazement awaits.

Santorini has lots of cats no rats.

The influencers are plenty and every where.