Route 66 in Oklahoma is tons of fun! There is a huge blue whale in Catoosa, Neon lights In Tulsa and Oklahoma City, quirky curiosity shops in Erick (among others), and ghost towns – including in Texola!! So much to do and see! Due to our “detour” we didn’t see the big whale and a few other renowned Oklahoma Route 66 attractions. However, we did enjoy PLENTY of Oklahoma attractions with great fun factor!
The Mother Road Market is a very accessible food hall with an eclectic array of foods. I especially loved the Native American pop-up restaurant with wafting smells of squash, beans, and much more!
My meal was vegan and delicious!
Lots to do in Tulsa
Lots of custom activities for the Route 66 Celebration
I loved this Native American squash bowl
When in Tulsa Make Some Noise!
Celebrate the Route 66 Centennial by making some music! Just hop on a bike, pedal, and listen to what you create! Free and easy! (next to the Mother Road Market on Lewis Street/ Route 66 in Tulsa.)
When the Sun Goes Down in Tulsa -ROUTE 66 ILLUMINATES with NEON!
This is a continuation of my chronicling a recent Route 66 journey to celebrate th 100th anniverary of the “Mother Road.” To read the first entries start here.
Now for a CONFESSION: We strayed from the Route 66 route as we crossed into Missouri from Illinois for a few reasons. First, my driving companion Marji had always dreamt of navigating through the Ozark Mountains to visit Laura Ingalls Wilder’s home, where she wrote the beloved Little House on the Prairie series. Secondly, there was a curious allure surrounding a place called Branson. Lastly, it felt like a good idea in the moment.
Laura Ingalls Wilder home, Mansfield, Missouri
Marji is an avid admirer of Laura Ingalls Wilder. Numerous children (and adults) have cherished her books that recount her experiences on the prairie. One our third travel day we journeyed through the winding mountains of the Ozarks, which were breathtakingly beautiful despite the deluge of rain! The drive took significantly longer than anticipated, mostly due to the weather. Nevertheless, we arrived during their “open” hours – or so we thought! However, as we pulled into the muddy parking lot, it was evident that they were NOT OPEN! Not a single car was present, and there were no signs of “life.” Our hopes for a tour or the chance to explore the enchanting home that felt so near yet was frustratingly distant were dashed! To make this situation sadder, a car with children showed up just minutes after us, their little faces filled with disappointment upon discovering they couldn’t tour the home either. They clutched their Little House on the Prairie books with such enthusiasm! Oh, I was so heartbroken for them!
Despite this “glitch,” we did manage to snap a few “memory” photos and then pressed on to Branson.
Branson
I won’t lie; I find myself puzzled by Branson, Missouri. It embodies multiple “identities” that can be quite bewildering! Initially, we were drawn to Branson with the expectation of enjoying some wholesome country music shows—perhaps even attending the Dolly Parton Stampede. I envisioned a southern country version of “Las Vegas,” but what I encountered was entirely different. The town oscillates between a clear connection to conservative Christian values and a lively family theme park atmosphere! To add to the perplexity, there’s also a surprising amount of burlesque. My head was spinning within the first hour.
Their website describes this establishment as folllows:
Experience the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake in all its glory at Top of the Rock. Resting beautifully at the highest elevation in Taney County, Top of the Rock offers world-class recreational activities and attractions. Just south of Branson, Missouri, you’ll find multiple restaurants, a scenic golf cart cave tour, a par-3 golf course, a fascinating history museum, stunning sunset ceremonies, and so much more.
Note: The TOP of the ROCK charges a $10 entry fee. Worth it.
There is a shuttle service and tons of kind people answering questions. Wardrobe is country club / golf course casual – but nice. Here is a short video from before we took the shuttle even further up the mountain. (We were gifted bubbles from a friend – and they were perfect to use in this video.)
The main restaurants have extraordinary views and at sunset and a musician playing the bagpipes serenaded us all! Reservations are required for some of the eateries. We ate at the Buffalo Bar.. (Check out their full complement of restaurants here.)
By the way, the waitstaff at the Buffalo Bar was extraordinary with more than one person able to converse in American Sign Language. And, the facility was fully ADA compliant.
Tip: order the lobster mac and cheese. Nothing more divine!
The Sunset Ceremony Serenades People at the Top of the Rock
THIS. After a full day of driving with some disappointments – THIS night at the TOP of the ROCK was one of my favorite travel experiences. Remarkable. Memorable. Very special indeed.
ARKANSAS
Here is a piece of trivia – Arkansas is not on Route 66. The Mother Road bypasses this state and continues from Missouri to Kansas and then into Oklahoma. Kansas has a whopping 13 miles on Route 66.
Despite not being on the official Route 66, we headed to Arkansas to visit some of Marji’s family and for me to be able to officially cross off Arkansas as the 48th US state I have visited!* I was eager to explore a few notable spots, including a charming stop in Fort Smith. However, once again, our timing was off for the one place I had marked as a must-visit. I had wanted to see Miss Laura’s Brothel Museum, but we arrived just a bit too late. Rather than lamenting our missed opportunity, we decided to drive to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where the vibrant NEON lights of Route 66 awaited us!
Not to worry- someday, perhaps, I’ll have a chance spend more time in Fort Smith!
*Only two more states to go- Idaho and Montana
TIP: It is wise to get your National Park Service pass (yearly or the senior “forever” pass). This pass can save time and money.
There’s never been a better time to answer the call of the open road than now—100 years after the legendary Route 66 first stitched together the heart of America. From the electric energy of Navy Pier in Chicago to the sun-soaked shores of Santa Monica Pier, this iconic journey isn’t just a drive—it’s a living story packed with quirky roadside attractions, nostalgic diners, and breathtaking stretches of Americana. But before you put the keys in the ignition, there’s more to know than just your playlist and pit stops. Traveling the “Mother Road” during its centennial celebration means navigating a mix of historic charm, modern detours, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—and knowing what to expect can turn a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.
I would be remiss if I didn’t offer a wee bit of advice to help you navigate the unexpected”hiccups” and “bumps in the road” you may encounter along Route 66. The best solution for such “problems” -laughter! A sense of humor is one of the most essential items to “pack” as you prepare for this amazing trip!
Honestly, here are some tips that I hope will help those who travel any or all of Route 66!
Tip #1.Be ambitious, but realistic. There are dozens and dozens of small towns and cities along Route 66. We realized early in the drive that we did not have the time, nor the energy, to make each location an actual stop. Some were designated as “Drive Bys.”
Tip #2. Don’t be afraid to veer off course. We drove much of Route 66. However, there were some places we wanted to visit that were not on the “official” path. So, we turned the wheel towards the road that seemed to have something “extra” to offer.
Sedona, Arizona, was an amazing side trip off Route 66. Highly recommend it for its unusual rock formations and immense beauty.
Tip #3. Expect the unexpected. Sadly, not all that was online was accurate!! Thus, we would end up at the doorsteps of a museum or visitor center only to discover it had closed early, was a random “day off”, or an unexpected holiday. This was very frustrating, especially after a long journey, as we stood there, staring at the locked doors, hoping to catch a glimpse of what lay inside. Conversely, there were times when we stumbled upon a hidden gem, finding a place open that was deemed closed online, often leading us to serendipitous discoveries that enhanced our adventures. This unpredictability taught us to maintain a flexible itinerary and embrace spontaneity! Being open to these surprises not only made our travels more enriching but also reminded us that sometimes the best memories come from unplanned moments. And, of course, we kept our sense of humor!
We drove for quite some time off of Route 66 to visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home. My friend is a huge fan of the author of the Little House on the Prairie series and had checked ahead that it was open on the day we were to arrive. Sadly, it was not. Closed all up! As rain fell on us, we decided to take a moment to just take in the beautiful outdoor vistas. And the drive through the Mark Twain National Park to get there was worth the time.
Tip #4. Bring good guidebooks and maps as a backup to online apps. Yes, there were MANY times that cell service was not available, but, luckily, we packed the “good-old-fashioned way” – with paper maps, too!
Tip #5. Be respectful. I learned that many who live along Route 66 are fiercely proud of the community spirit dedicated to guiding travelers through their town on their part of the “Mother Road”. What may seem unusual or somewhat “kitsch” to a visitor may prove to have historical or sentimental value to the locals. Thus, when you see GIANTS lining the towns, big, bold, and bright neon signs, or upside-down Cadillac cars covered in spray paint – know that they are often beloved!
Big signs and the Blues Brothers!Neon in TulsaMore NeonCADILLAC RANCH in AMARILLLO, TEXASGIANTS are sprinkled throughout Route 66
TIP 6. Don’t expect good accessibility along Route 66. If I were to assign a school grade to Route 66 based on its accessibility, I would give it a “C.” While certain outdoor venues provide decent sidewalks and informative signage, indoor attractions frequently fall short, lacking crucial features such as elevators, braille materials, and captioned videos. One notable exception is the Capitol of Illinois in Springfield, which thoughtfully accommodates the needs of individuals with unique challenges without any excessive fanfare. Kudos to Illinois!
Braille signage found at the Illinois State Capitol building garden art display.
There will be several more articles about Route 66 – my insights, reviews, and a few more tips. Of course, lots of photos! Stay tuned!
At 66 years young, I’m thrilled to embark on an epic adventure along the legendary Route 66, stretching from the heart of Illinois all the way to the sun-kissed shores of California! The excitement of this journey is palpable, and I can’t wait to hit the road with my dear friend, Marji!
Together, we have crafted an extraordinary itinerary featuring stops at fun and quirky locations along the route! (Plus, we’ve included a few delightful detours – just for good measure!) Throughout our journey, I will be gathering information and resources for travelers who require different accommodations to travel “uniquely”. Whether someone needs easy walking paths, paved hiking trails, or amenities like braille signage and captioned informational films in museums or historical venues, I aim to gather inclusive travel information to share during our trip and after as a guide for all.
STARTING POINT: the Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois. Did you know there is a tall ship, The Windy, at the pier? Hop on and join the ships crew for a fun sailing experience!
Our journey will officially commence in Joliet, Ilinois and then promptly continue to Pontiac, Illinois, a town that takes great pride in its Route 66 Hall of Fame, especially for this anniversary celebration! Explore the website for a complete list of events here.
Before we depart from the Land of Lincoln, we can’t miss the opportunity to visit Springfield, the state capital and the historic home of Abraham Lincoln. I’m particularly looking forward to the fascinating vintage sign collection at the ACE SIGN COMPANY MUSEUM.
Missouri– The SHOW ME STATE
Before crossing the Mississippi River, we will take our first “side-trip” to Branson, Missouri. I am hoping we can catch a few good shows! The website: ExploreBranson.com seemed to have a wealth of information!
Kansas– not sure what to see here. Suggestions??
Oklahoma
Tulsa is our main stop in Oklahoma, and there is plenty to do and see in this thriving city. When the sun goes down, the Neon Signs illuminate! Plus, a great place to get some barbecue!
Texas (Panhandle)
Amarillo- You cannot drive on Route 66 without making the obligatory stop at the Cadillac Ranch. I understand it is BYOSP (Bring Your Own Spray Paint). Graffiti art on the various Cadillac cars is encouraged. Stay tuned for the video and/or photos!
New Mexico
This state is a treasure trove of Route 66 “must-dos”. From ghost towns, to Wigwam hotels, and even a stop at the Balloon Museum! There is no time to sleep in New Mexico or Arizona. Our focus will be on these destination points and the natural wonders that surround them!
Tucumcari
Albuquerque
The beautiful backdrop of Flagstaff, Arizona
Arizona
Holbrook
Winslow
Flagstaff
Kingman
I have written several articles about Arizona. Regardless, I am excited to go to Winslow and actually explore this little slice of Arizona. Made famous by the band, The Eagles, this verse in the song Take It Easy: “standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona”. That little corner has captured the imaginations of thousands of visitors each year and has become a popular “Instagram post”. In fact, in early 2026, over 45,000 “Insta” posts have been tabulated to have the hashtag #WinslowArizona!
Next up- Flagstaff is located in a very pretty part of the state. We plan on making our way to the Meteor Crater and the National Petrified Forest (and the Painted Desert), too! I bet that these are optimal photography stops!
Once we hit Flagstaff, we veer off to Sedona. I have been before and it is FABULOUS! I am looking forward to taking the Verde Canyon train out of Clarkdale and through the rock formations of Sedona and nearby vistas.
Back on Route 66, we will go towards Williams, Oatman, and Kingman. But, we still have plenty of sites to see and novelty shops to discover!
California
Needles
Barstow
San Bernardino
We make our way to our final destination during the last day on “the route”.
LAST STOP: Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier, California (home sweet home)
What’s next? Well, if you read this far, please know that the content will continue throughout our trip. And the culmination will be a guide for people and families who need to travel uniquely, and how Route 66 accommodates and includes people with differences.
Lastly, we will highlight the destinations by encouraging children to participate and expand their interest in reading. We’ll kick off this initiative with a book from my friends at Familius Publishing.
As the year 2025 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the myriad of emotions it has stirred—including how this year was so confusing and unique! Yes, 2025 has been filled with incredible highs and serious lows for me, numerous friends, and family. Moments of joy have been intricately intertwined with episodes of heartache and challenge. Like 2020, I for one will be glad when we put 2025 “in the books”. I have had enough of this rollercoaster year!
Each year when I write my “retrospective blog”, I find myself searching for positives and negatives. This year, we traveled frequently, and that was a huge positive. We explored local to our Los Angeles home base and went across the Atlantic for a global adventure. We had an opportunity to ride the Alaska Railroad across the amazing 49th state, have fun in Las Vegas, explore areas on the East Coast, and see ancient ruins, museums, and other attractions in Europe. Along the way, we met or reunited with people who enriched our travel experience.
Once home, we began our search for a new furry family member. In November, we welcomed to our home a very large shelter puppy we named Baxter! Read his story here.
Baxter!Riding the Big Bus through Europe you get to see many streets as pretty as this oneHome is a place where sunsets are amazing!The Jewish Quarter of RomeDAVID – The Academia in RomeGirona, Spain
The highlight of 2025 came with the birth of our first grandchild. She has been one of the brightest lights in our year. And while others may post photos of their grandchildren online, I have opted to give my granddaughter the privacy she deserves.
While the year has been filled with fun, I am also keenly aware that many people have faced agonizing challenges. I recognize this has been a year of great loss and illness for many people we care about. Our hearts are with those who have faced hardship, grief, or uncertainty. Know that many care about you, including me.
And also as I write this, I feel it necessary to mention that the world has evidently become engulfed in chaos. I find it difficult to express my emotions about the current state of our “states” without resorting to screaming, so I will refrain from doing so. However, I hold onto the hope that common sense and compassion will eventually prevail in our world and hit our “collective” like a tsunami.
In closing, I wish for a happier, healthier, much kinder, and safer 2026. May all of our days be filled with love, joy, and laughter.
Below you will find a sneak peek of my upcoming blogs, including at least one giveaway!
xo,
Louise
A look ahead…
Familius publications and I have partnered for a wonderful giveaway from a recent title they released. Stay tuned for this announcement in the next week or two!
Where to travel in 2026? Let’s explore the possiblities together – suggestions welcome. (Email me here)
Today is October 13th. I should be in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. I should be visiting waterfalls and dining in the city of Mostar on local cuisine. And, I should be ending the day in Dubrovnik, Croatia, at a seaside resort where the sunsets are supposed to provide endless views.
Instead, I am home in Southern California. And, I have been home for a wee bit due to “trip interruptus!”. You see, when you get super duper sick while traveling, you have to make some tough decisions. Mine was to throw in the proverbial towel, get the first flight back home, and go directly to the emergency room, where I was treated with a bad case of “the yuck”. I will spare you the details. And, I also want to let you know two very important pieces of information about my trip home: 1) I masked 100% of the flight, and 2) Others around ME were coughing and sneezing, and they were not masked. In other words, my fellow passengers were putting my health at risk far more than I was theirs.
Although I am terribly disappointed and for several days was using the word, DESPONDENT, I am trying to see silver linings.
First, I must give KUDOS to my hubby and travel partner who took care of canceling most of the remainder of the trip without much help from me. This was his dream trip, too, and he was nothing but supportive of us returning home. He also brewed his own case of “the yuck”.
Secondly, a huge thanks to FAYE INSURANCE. Not only did they give me support and names of doctors to see while we were traveling, but they also assisted us during the “trip interruption” process. Working with them has been wonderful, and they took much of the stress off of us by making the claim process as painless as possible. I appreciated their being so responsive throughout my illness and upon our return.
If you recall a previous article I penned, I recommended travel insurance as a “must-have” when preparing for a trip. Well, we got a policy with Faye, and they went above and beyond expectations! When we reschedule the part of the trip we didn’t finish (and venture on others) – Faye will be getting our repeat business!
One lesson I learned from this experience is that health comes first, and to follow your “gut”. I now realize that I would never have enjoyed the last month of our vacation, given the seriousness of my illness. I let my intuition and common sense be my guide – and that was a very smart move.
Despite having to end our trip prematurely, all was not lost. We did have the opportunity to spend a glorious month traversing several countries and seeing so much! I even penned a few blogs about our experiences visiting Dublin, Barcelona, the Vatican, and Athens. Each blog includes information about accessible tourism. I would love it if you check them out!
In closing, here are a few photos we snapped and a video from the center plaza of Florence. (Gosh, I loved that city!) The captions will tell you the locations of the photos. Click on the photos for a detailed look.
Thanks for reading! And I promise, more travel blogs to come in due time!
The Carousel in the Piazza della Repubblica, Florence,Ponte Sisto, Tiber River Florence, Centro StoricoThe old buildings in the Jewish Quarter of RomeThe Acropolis, Athens, GreeceCasa Battlo- Gaudi home designGirona, SpainGirona, SpainThe Streets of Dublin
Did you know that the smallest independent country in the world is Vatican City? It is home to under one thousand Catholics, mostly clergy, official members of the Vatican, and the Swiss Guard. Comprised of several major sites, including the home to the current Pope Leo XIV – the Apostolic Palace, St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square, and the Vatican’s official museums. One can spend all day visiting the Vatican and not even scratch the surface of all it has to offer.
If you do visit the Vatican, please acquire tickets well in advance of your visit using a verified tour service. (It is ironic how many people will try to “rip you off” with fake tickets or pickpocket you within the walls of this holy establishment!)
First impressionsof the Vatican
There is so much to take in when you enter the Vatican.
The grounds of the Vatican are huge. The buildings are mammoth in size! The skyline of domes takes your breath away! And the outstanding staff are very adept at receiving and watching carefully the 30,000 (or more) visitors they receive EACH DAY!
St. Peter’s BasilicaThe grounds of the VaticanEntering the Vatican you are given a “primer” of what to expect
Tips for Traversing the Vatican
Visiting the Vatican may mean you are waiting and walking in very hot, humid, crowded, and noisy conditions. There are very few elevators, and air conditioning exists in only a few parts of this extensive campus. (I really can’t fathom the reasons for no AC in buildings where priceless works of art are housed!)
Also, opportunities to get drinks or use a restroom are pretty few, so come prepared. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes, but heed the warnings of the Vatican’s attire protocol – and dress modestly.
Photography is allowed and encouraged
Photography was encouraged by our tour guide. He explained that there is so much to see and digest during the tour that photographs will act as helpful souvenirs and reminders.
You can spend the day with Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, and Leonardo. These are infamous artists and not the Mutant Ninja Turtles!
Here is just a sample of some of the most magnificent art you will see during a standard tour. I understand there are some “behind the scenes” tours of more artwork that is just being housed in a “warehouse”, of sorts.
Here is a little trivia. The Mastiff Dog sculpture posted within this montage was broken by a tourist taking a “selfie”. It has been restored thanks to benevolent supporters from California.
TIPS:
1) Some tourists do not understand the concept of “personal space” – so be prepared for being “smushed”.
2) When you enter an exhibit, go to the back of the room and view the masterpieces from different angles.
3) The ceilings are full of art – don’t rush through the rooms without looking up!
Have you ever seen a ceiling like this?!
St. Peter’s Basilica
One of the largest Roman Catholic houses of worship in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica. It is beyond words to describe.
See the Vatican at Night!
The Vatican is stunning at night. St. Peter’s Basilica Square looks like it shimmers under the lights and moonlight.
GeneralVatican Ticket Information can be Found Here:
There are many wonderful hotels and rental apartment companies (AirBnB and VRBO, for example). The reader may want to consider TripAdvisor, Expedia, or Booking.com for assistance with locating accomodations.
(FYI: We enjoyed staying in the Trastevere area of Rome.)
Do you have any recommendations about visiting the Vatican or other places within Rome? Feel free to commentbelow!
Greece was never on my “bucket list” of destinations. I thought about cruising to Athens and spending just a day there—enough to see the Acropolis, Parthenon, enjoy a meal in the Plaka, and return to the ship. However, I soon realized that one day is not enough to appreciate Athens’ rich history, culture, and stunning sights. The ancient ruins are important landmarks that showcase a civilization that shaped history. We stayed for four days, during which I learned a lot about Athens. While I could recommend many places to visit, I’ve narrowed it down to five, knowing that some readers may only have a day or two.
Special Note: I added to the bottom of my TOP 5 list a place I do not recommend.
Here are my TOP 5 places to explore when in Athens, Greece.
PARTHENON and
ACROPOLIS (I clump these together as they share “real estate”.) First, if you plan on visiting these two very historical sites and some of the most important “ruins” on this planet, you MUST go with a tour. Without one, you will be relegated to the back of the line and lost as to what is what once you arrive. We used Athens Walking Tours and had Antigone as our guide. She was very good keeping the group engaged by sharing her extensive knowledge. My “ADHD-self” appreciated that she fluctuated between being the “teacher” and a bit of a comedian. Just in case you weren’t sure – let me stress that I I enjoyed the tour very much. Confession, I was scared to walk the 200 steps from the base of this massive historical site to the actual ruins. Let me allay your fears. With the tour, you go a few steps – stop. Look around, snap some photos. Then go again. Maybe even walk a ramp versus steps. All in all, it is quite doable for able-bodied people (an elevator is there if you need assistance, just bring a note from your doctor or your handicapped documentation). Once you arrive at the crest, you are amidst some of the most awesome manmade relics known to mankind! TIP: Read up on the history of the Acropolis and Parthenon before well before you arrive in Greece. A little research may have extended my enjoyment even more. The Athens University History Museum is also in the area, and although we didn’t visit, we heard from many residents that it is worth spending some time checking out.
3. PLAKA – This is an open-air market with a substantial number of good restaurants and cute shops. Warning… pickpockets also like this area.
PLAKAPLAKAPLAKA
4. Vouliagmeni beach and lake. We took the BIG BUS for about 45 minutes to Lake Vouliagmeni. We got off a few times and then found our way to the lake. To actually see and enjoy the lake, you need to walk a very short distance from the road – downhill. Once you arrive, you can access the lakefront for a small fee (this gets you a lounge chair, swimming access, and other amenities). You can also eat or drink at the cafe and still enjoy a view of the lake.
5. SMILE GASTROTAVERN.This is a restaurant that has excellent, authentic Greek food. The BAKLAVA was simply the best I’ve ever eaten!
AND, SMILEGASTROTAVERN has one of the few handcap accessible bathrooms in an Athens eating establishment! Most restaurants in Athens have their restrooms either up or down a level from their main dining area. This makes using the restroom a challenge or not possible for someone with mobility issues. Only a handful of restaurants offer the same level of restrooms on their main floor with doors wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair. TIPS: 1) Make a reservation and 2) Tell Zoey, one of the owners, I say hello!
Very spaciousBEST BAKLAVAAccessible bathroom
Not recommended:
I am a “connoisseur” of casinos, especially slot machines. I love to play. Plus, the technology fascinates me! So, when I found out there was a casino in the Athens area, I wanted to check it out!
Sigh. Rarely do I post negative reviews. But, I feel compelled to give some insights to visitors to Athens about the Regency Casino – Mt. Parnes, so they have info I wish I had before wasting my time and money.
First, to get there is no small feat. From the center of Athens, it takes an HOUR. The casino is atop a mountain, and getting there depends on what is “working” – such as the tram, bus service, etc. Each day appears to be a different story as to the best method to access the casino. So, before you venture out to the casino, do yourself a favor and check out what methods of transportation are working. The Cable Car for the casino was not operating during the day I visited.
Once you arrive, know that you are asked a multitude of questions and MUST show your passport. No one voluntered to speak English, unless you ask. Also, the “documents” to register as a “player” are in multiple languages. Mine was in HEBREW! You are given a printout of “coupons” with no explanation. And they are in GREEK! No one offers you a translation or a QR code to get some additional info.
The casino is old. In fact, it looks like an industrial park. Plus, it has OLD slot machines, is not very clean, smells of smoke, and overall is underwhelming. The staff were rude and not helpful. I did not feel overly safe (and I was there mid-afternoon). I left within 20 minutes and was never so happy to get out of a casino in my life.
On a scale of 1-10, I give this casino a “2”- and that is because the view was pretty awesome. Please keep in mind that this is my opinion and is only based on my engagement with their slot machines. Other players may have different, even positive, experiences.
Have you heard of Girona, Spain? Honestly, I could not have told you one fact about this city until friends raved about visiting Girona during a recent trip to Spain. So, when Hubby and I were planning our trip we made sure to add a side-trip to Girona.
For reference, Girona is about 45 minutes to north and east of Barcelona, and it has a history and personality that is very unique. It is known for the “old city” that fits within a wall. In some respects, it reminded me of a much smaller version of Toledo, Spain, as both cities have strong roots in global religions.
Getting to Girona is fairly easy from Barcelona and other areas. It was only 45 minutes from the Barcelona Sant (train and bus station) via the RENFE high-speed rail service.
Once you arrive in Girona, expect to walk about 15 minutes or more to get to the Old City. (“More” if you get lost, like us!)
Girona once housed a fairly good-sized Jewish population. The Museum of Jewish History chronicles the history and culture of Jews in Spain throughout the centuries, including the unceremonious expulsion they were served by Queen Isabella in 1492.
Here are a few things to know about visiting the Museum of Jewish History. First, it is for anyone who is curious about the history of Girona and/or the Jews of Spain. It is both a learning and a cultural experience. You don’t need to be Jewish to appreciate the museum’s exhibits. There are also tours available.
Secondly, the museum is excellent for being accessible and inclusive. They offer an audio guide option in ten languages. They also have transcripts of the audio guide in print and placed near each exhibit. The introductory film has a sign language interpreter embedded in the film. She uses international sign language.
The physical space is beautiful, including a central courtyard. And, there are many activities that happen throughout the year for local members of the community and visitors to enjoy! They even hosted a Jewish Film Festival!
Lastly, the museum also houses an excellent bookstore. I confess – I left with a few items!
Inside the walls of the old city houses a beautiful Cathedral. I opted to walk the 100 plus stairs so that I could photograph the town’s landscape and nearby buildings from “up high”. Frankly, I was a puddle of sweat and decided to forgo seeing the inside of the Cathedral.
One of my favorite aspects of Girona was the winding streets that seemed to exude history and character with every twist, turn, and alleyway. I found myself captivated by the stories that may have unfolded on these paths years, decades, and even centuries ago.
Girona’s old city also has a number of restaurants. Oddly, many offer Italian cuisine and not Spanish! So, I ended up “settling” on a place that served a French savory crepe and a great cappuccino! Overall, the restaurant choices appeared to be geared towards the tourist population versus the locals.
In conclusion, Girona offers a fantastic option for a day trip from nearby cities, including Barcelona, and is worth considering for a longer stay as well.
