My wife teaches at a private high school. For many reasons, it’s much different than the high school I went to. The biggest difference is what they call “interim term.” During this “interim term,” a group of students taking Spanish classes traveled to Spain. My wife and I were lucky enough to tag along.

We were gone for 10 days and had an absolutely fantastic holiday. We traveled to Madrid first, then made our way south enjoying Toledo, Cordova and Sevilla. We eventually caught an AVE (high speed train) through the Spanish country side to Barcelona. Dan, our terrific tour guide, made sure we knew all the historical and interesting facts about the cities, cathedrals, palaces, parks and plazas we visited.

Although I have been to six European countries in the past, Spain had a unique feel. Additionally, as someone in the construction industry, I found the architecture quite spectacular. The blending of Moorish, Gothic and Baroque styles was outstanding. The work of the famous architect Antonio Gaudi blew my mind. I left the Sagrada Familia–the crown jewel of Guadi, which broke ground in 1882 and is not expected to be finished until 2030–in complete awe.

I’ve included many pictures of the trip below. However–as you’ve probably experienced–the photos do not really capture the beauty and magnificence of the actual experience.

If you ever have the chance visit Spain; I highly recommend it.