Page 181 - Discoveries Await in 2022 & 2023

EUROPE

DAY 10 • Ronda Old Town • Controversial DAY 12 • A Day in the Life of a family-run DAY 15 • Toledo or Madrid
Topic: Royal corruption olive oil mill Enjoy a free day to explore on your own, either in
Explore Ronda’s walled Old Town, and wander the Visit a family-owned olive oil mill during our A Toledo or in Madrid, a city filled with museums and
labyrinth of medieval streets, flanked by Moorish Day in the Life experience. We’ll join a local family lovely parks. This evening, gather for a Farewell
homes. We’ll also enjoy views of the canyon from for coffee and a conversation on the importance Dinner and toast to this adventure.
atop the Puente Nuevo Bridge. Later, discuss a of olives in the local economy. Afterwards, meet B,D — Sercotel Alfonso VI or similar
Controversial Topic: the uncertain fate of the with the owners of the olive oil mill and tour the
Spanish monarchy. Following the end of the fascist olive fields. We’ll learn about olive-oil production DAY 16 • Return to U.S.
Franco regime, the monarchy was restored, and king during a visit to the mill, where we’ll sample some After breakfast, we depart for the airport for our
Juan Carlos I took the throne. However, he proved to extra virgin olive oil. Then, sit down and enjoy a return flights home, or continue your Spain travel
be unpopular, and became embroiled in a corruption traditional meal with the family. and fly to Bilbao to begin our post-trip extension
scandal that resulted in his abdication in 2014. B,L — Parador de Úbeda or similar to Northern Spain: Bilbao, San Sebastian & Medieval
Opinion is now split on whether the monarchy has Villages or New! The Volcanic Canary Islands: Tenerife
a role in Spanish politics, which we’ll learn about DAY 13 • Toledo & Gran Canaria.
from two locals—Armando Gil Ecay, who believes it Depart Úbeda for Toledo, stopping en route to Puerto B
should be abolished, and Jaime Coronel, who thinks Lapice. In Toledo, a local guide will take you on a
it is only in need of reform. tour of the city, showing you ancient synagogues,
B,L — Parador de Ronda churches, mosques, and impressive palaces.
B — Sercotel Alfonso VI or similar
DAY 11 • Córdoba • Journey to Úbeda
Journey to Úbeda, and en route, visit Córdoba. DAY 14 • Toledo • Madrid • Flamenco
Once an Islamic capital in the tenth century, it rose demonstration
to become western Europe’s largest city. Today, Explore Madrid, including a visit to the Prado
Córdoba is known for the Mezquita, its eighth- Museum for a glimpse into Spain’s artistic history.
century mosque and one of the world’s greatest After a flamenco demonstration, your afternoon is
Islamic buildings, which we will get to explore. on your own in Toledo.
Then, continue on to Úbeda. Upon arrival, enjoy B,L — Sercotel Alfonso VI or similar
dinner at our parador.
B,D — Parador de Úbeda or similar

Unique Accommodations

Pousada de Évora
Évora

The Pousada de Évora, a former monastery
founded in 1487 over the ruins of an ancient
castle, is situated in Évora’s historic center,
between the Gothic Cathedral and Temple of
Diana. Along with a small swimming pool, there
is a restaurant located in the old cloisters.
Engage in conversations with locals throughout your journey.

Information & Reservations 1-800-955-1925 www.oattravel.com/ wps 181

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