Melissa and I trained and tubed to Heathrow to pick up the family and then returned back to Cambridge to begin our time together. The itinerary? Show the fam around our little life in Cambridge, then fly to Granada in the south of Spain, before returning to London for a few days to round off the trip.
Despite a few mishaps, the English summer was cooperative and allowed us to enjoy tea at the famous Orchard in Grantchester, a whirlwind tour of the historic Cambridge colleges, and of course - punting (the staple Cambridge tourist trap). Our punting adventure down the backs of the river Cam began smoothly, and after a few leisurely beers, Dad even had a go with the pole. All was well until a massive episode of rain suprised us mid punt and the sky started pissing on us. We took refuge for about 20 mintues carefully positioned diagonally under one of the many stone bridges. We returned from our adventure only slightly damp to enjoy bites and pints at the historic Anchor pub (supposed birthplace of Pink Floyd).
While in Cambridge, we rented a car and took a cool day trip north to check out the old Jaguar factory and museum. It was a really really cool opportunity. We happened to a meet professional car photographer in the main musem area who offered to take us behind the scenes to explore Jaguar's private collection of historic cars. We lucked out completely, and Dad was in male, car-loving heaven. We saw the Queen's private fleet, the Jag used in the Austin Powers movies, the old generation of classic jags, and all the racing models used during Le Mans. Most of these cars were all opened up and being worked on by mechanics, so Dad was able to talk Jag specifics with real, legit car people who share the rare love of rubber hoses, intake valves, and other automotive delights! We finished the day by visiting the famous Warwick castle near the old Jag factory before heading home to Cambridge -- it was a full but amazing day!
It was such a treat to be able to give my folks a taste of our temporary stomping grounds, walking around and enjoying the gardens/churches/parks/colleges/pubs and other spaces that have discovered us throughout this past year. Our time in Cambridge, rain in all, was a great way to then transition to the soothing sun in the south of Spain.
We arrived into Granada via the RyanAir - the UK's low cost airline, and hopped on an bus (w/ AC, thankfully) into the center of town and our AMAZING hotel, Hotel Carmen. This place was perfect. Within walking distance to the heart of town and the older quaint bars/restaurants/markets that dot the coblestone streets, Hotel Carmen also had a rooftop swimming pool and bar, where we spent the vast majority of our down time. Given the high temps and long days roaming around the city, a cool glass of sangria poolside never tasted so good.
The main attraction in Granada is the Alhambra, a stunning castle/palace/gardens displaying the beauty of Moorish (a term to describe the Muslims in S. Spain and N. Africa) architecture dating back to the 9th century. The intricate geometric art that is either etched or painted onto the expansive stone structures inspire a deep curiosity and appreciation for an Islamic culture we know little about. The Alhambra also tells the history of the clash and influence of Muslim/Christian relations pre, during, and post the Crusades. Check it out through the wonders of the world wide web here, but make sure to pay it a visit if you are ever in the area - to date one of the more amazing things we have seen!
In contrast to visiting the historic site, the ladies also had plenty of time to pursue the highest calling of female existence - shopping. Dad and I patiently pretended to be super interested in crappy purses, shoes, and all the other items designed to puncture holes in hard-earned, male generated paychecks. Can't complain, though, mom bought me a linen shirt to help my sweat glands cope with the temperatures!
We left Granada relaxed, sun-kissed, and prepared to finish off the adventure by roaming around the greatest city in the world, LONDON! We saw Buckingham Palace and the changing of the guards, Westminster Abbey, Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Picadilly, Hyde Park, and Notting Hill. After our jaunt around London, it was sadly the end of our time together -- but all in all, it was an amazing few weeks of spending time together and checking out some pretty cool sites.
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