A primer to Turkish Wine, secrets of La Rioja, and more
Addictions / Beer / Spain / Travel / Turkey / Wine

A primer to Turkish Wine, secrets of La Rioja, and more

I’ve been busy; lately, I’ve swirled, sipped, and delighted in copious cups of good wine (and as you can see above, tea). All, I’m telling you, in the name of ahem, research. From further afield, my insight: A guide to Turkish wine, plus wineries to visit in Turkey’s enchanting land of fairy chimneys. You must try it, … Continue reading

Traveling Tuscany through a plate
Coffee / Food / Italy / Nature / Photography / Travel / Uncategorized / Wine

Traveling Tuscany through a plate

Warning! Before you read this, quell your grumbling stomach. This post will have you craving an Italian feast. Italians do eat a lot of pasta. We began each meal, lunch and dinner, with an antipasto. This slow, but filling pace continued with a first plate (almost always a tantalizing twist on pasta), a second plate … Continue reading

The future, it’s undoubtably mixed
Addictions / Festivals / Local / Madrid / Photography / Questions / Spain / Travel / Wine

The future, it’s undoubtably mixed

The count is clear; two days remain. My mind is muddled. An overwhelming flood of changes are about to occur. However, first, I’m heading to La Rioja for the battle of wine! Afterward, I want to discover Cataluña beyond its capital. Perhaps enjoying some vermouth from the source? Then, finally, Turkey. I’m traveling solo, confident, and … Continue reading

Painted pigeons and other oddities, Almería’s a must
Andalucía / Food / Nature / Photography / Spain / Travel / Wine

Painted pigeons and other oddities, Almería’s a must

Lured, like many, with the promise of virgin beaches, I made the pilgrimage to Almería. Though the city itself is rarely a stop on most tourists’ itineraries of Spain, I’m here to say, they’re missing out. For a foodie on a budget, Almería allures even more. Whether gazing longingly at a Mediterranean sunset or hopping … Continue reading

Marvels (like vermouth) in Madrid’s Markets
Addictions / Food / Local / Madrid / Olives / Spain / Wine

Marvels (like vermouth) in Madrid’s Markets

Recently, I discovered something new. After just one sip, I realized I had been missing out on something truly dynamic and different. My newly educated mind tingled with the drink’s alcohol heft, its subtle sweetness, and most of all, its interesting interplay of herbs and spices. Vermouth. How had I not known about it? Those privy to it, … Continue reading

Lost in time in Chinchón
Food / Local / Madrid / Nature / Photography / Spain / Travel / Wine

Lost in time in Chinchón

Just 45 minutes away from Madrid, Chinchón feels like another world. It’s quaint, small, and ideal for a Madrid escape. In fact, it’s so close, you can even see the city’s skyline and sierra. From the crumbling castle, Chinchón’s highest point, time and space muddle together. Young boys kick a football, girls swing their hips … Continue reading