Spain

We are staying in a lovely village in  Sotosalbos Spain - about 20 km (for the metrically challenged, that is about 12 miles) out of Segovia.

Segovia is a walled city with a aquaduct built by the Romans over 2000 years ago, to supply water to the city.  Although most of the area now receives its water thru underground pipes implemented in late 19th century, the aquaduct still supplies some areas.

It is beautiful, functional and an engineering feat.  The rocks were placed with no mortar - which is why it still stands.

The area around here is filled with history, and good wine.  We are in the Ruberio del Duero region and are taking advantage of it all.

The one thing there is little of is Jews.  Both Portugal and Spain expelled their Jewish population - mostly Sephardic - in 1492.  Now both areas have passed legislation to allow Sephardic Jews to reclaim their 1492 citezenship.

Evenings, mostly hours from 8 to 10 PM have been pleasantly spent in the local tavern ( the only one in town) chatting with the bar keeper. His smattering of english and Ron's pocito espanol gets us sufficient drinks and free tapas.  World Cup games this week had been somewhat of a let down, no real contest in Germany v Brasil, and no real action in Argentina v Netherlands. Maybe Argentina will wake up and excite for the finale against Germany this weekend.

Off for a day trip to Madrid on Karen's special day, and one more bottle of Ribera del Duero before we slip north to the Rioja region. Its been a tasting tour thus far, no need to stop yet. 

Adios, hasta luego!