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Malaga, Spain The World's 20 best places to live (according to Forbes in November 2023) In November 2023, Forbes magazine published the article "Ranked: The World's 20 Best Places To Live, According To Expats." (Bloom, 2023) Her byline states "Transformative Travel: I look at how travel can change lives." Her article notes that "InterNations-the largest global community for people who live and work abroad-has just released its annual Expat City Ranking." It is a ranking of 49 cities based on the feelings of expats. Apparently expats like to live in places that offer "an enjoyable and affordable life." Five Spanish cities were included in the top 20: Malaga, Alicante, Valencia, Madrid, and Barcelona. Here's the top 20 list: Malaga, Spain Alicante, Spain Valencia, Spain Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Abu Dhabi, UAE Madrid, Spain Mexico City, Mexico Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Bangkok, Thailand Muscat, Oman Dubai, UAE Lisbon, Portugal Barcelona, Spain Amsterdam, the Netherlands Nairobi, Kenya Zurich, Switzerland Athens, Greece Stockholm, Sweden Luxembourg City, Luxembourg The Hague, the Netherlands Should You Visit These Places? Does this mean that that these cities are great places for leisure travelers to visit? That we can't say with a blanket statement. We can say that we really enjoyed visiting the ones we have visited, Madrid being the one we have visited most. We have visited the ones highlighted in green at least once, the ones highlighted in orange are in our current plans for 2024, and the two highlighted in yellow have been on our list of places to visit. Let's see which ones we have the pleasure of visiting! Clearly we need to get to Asia, the Middle East, and Africa (we have had the pleasure of visiting Morocco but nowhere else in Africa). You can read the whole article here . Our Valencia Experience Valencia was #1 on last year's ranking. This does not surprise us at all! You can read more about Valencia in our previous post where we provided an overview of the Fallas Festival that we witnessed during our first visit to the beautiful city. In the article, we also share the experiences we had there on a much more recent visit and we wrap things up with our recipe for Paella (we make it at home several times a year) and what we plan to do on our next visit (see things we couldn't fit into our agenda last time). We'll be sure to write about many of these places in the future. Have you visited any of these places? What did you enjoy most

Madrid: Royal Palace and Almudena Cathedral, March 2023 I'm about to break the rule my elementary teacher taught me. She said I had "I-itis" and that I needed to find other ways to start my sentences... Madrid, My First Impression I first arrived in Madrid in the fall of 1986. I didn't know what to expect. I had never been to Europe. I had only seen a few photos. I had a working knowledge of the language, was not even close to being fluent, but was eager to learn and adapt to life in a new place; this beautiful city that was so welcoming. I was immediately at ease. It felt like home. There is so much I want to share about Madrid, too much for one blog post. So, this is the introduction to a series of posts. Each one will be a deep dive into some aspect of the city. Overview of Madrid Almudena Cathedrial Madrid is quite a unique city. It boasts a rich history, with beautiful architecture from various periods and diverse styles dating back to the early 1500s; if you don't count the remnants of the wall that protected three sides of the ninth-century moorish city Mayrit . There are public squares, churches, palaces, municipal buildings, grand hotels, and monuments of various architectural styles dating back centuries. There is even an Egyptian temple perched on a hilltop; gifted to Spain by Egypt in the early 1970s. And one of the most recent additions to the city is the newly renovated Santiago Bernabeu stadium where you can take a tour or see Real Madrid play. Museums to Relish Prado Museum The city also has quite a few museums like the national Prado museum with one of the most important collections in the world, the Reina Sofía which houses the Picasso masterpiece, Guernica , and the quaint Sorolla museum that focuses on the beautiful works of one of Spain's most treasured artists; and many others like the recently opened Royal Collections museum . Beautiful Green Spaces to Enjoy Monument to Alfonso XII, Retiro There are green spaces throughout the city where you can relax, ride a bike, go for a walk, or enjoy a beverage at a terrace bar. Retiro park , is a beautiful park. It has fountains, statues, monuments, landmark buildings that are now used as art exhibit spaces, and a lagoon where you can row boats. Then there is Madrid Rio , a green space along the Manzanares river running south and west of the city with both modern and historic bridges. Along one stretch of Madrid Rio you will find the old slaughterhouse that was converted into restaurant and exhibit space. There's also the beautiful Sabatini gardens located behind the royal palace. There are too many parks, squares, and gardens to list them all here. So, we'll save them for a future post. It is important to note, though, that over the past several decades the city of Madrid has been converting roads in the center of the city to pedestrian areas with shopping and restaurants . Some examples include calle Fuencarral , calle del Arenal and the Plaza de España as well as the area by the Royal Palace which was totally redone a couple of years ago. The renovation of the magnificent Puerta del Sol was just completed in mid-2023. It is wonderful to be able to enjoy this city on foot. Delicious Spanish Food - From Traditional to Gourmet Terraces on a Madrid Street OMG the food! I will really dig into this topic because I love to cook and there are so many places to sample delicious Spanish dishes, tapas, wine and cocktails. There are restaurants that have been continuously operating for hundreds of years, like Botín which opened in 1725 and Lhardy since 1832, both of which continue pleasing diners to this day. And there are trendy new restaurants too. Notably, Spanish chef Dabiz Muñoz was voted the number one chef in the world in 2023 and his restaurant DiverXO is in Madrid . You can make a reservation to dine there on the restaurant's website. Madrileños The people are some of the kindest, most genuine people in the world. They will go out of their way to help you if you need assistance. They take pride in welcoming people but can also tend to keep to themselves. And the streets, cafes, bars and restaurants are always animated with locals and tourists enjoying life. Truly enjoying life. I think this is why I always feel so energized when I visit Madrid. To wrap up (I thought this was just going to be a few short lines), Madrid has so much to offer, enough to keep you coming back for more. So, whether you are visiting for the first time or the seventh, you will be in for a treat. And, I haven't even mentioned the day trips you can do from Madrid... Are you planning a trip to Madrid? We've written numerous articles that are much more in depth. What are you most looking forward to seeing in Madrid when you go?

Plaza Mayor of Madrid My First Visit to the Plaza Mayor of Madrid It was the end of summer in 1986 when I first walked through one of the archways into the Plaza Mayor of Madrid . I was instantly in awe of this place. It has a stunning appearance of archways and balconied walls leading up to beautiful towers in a very Spanish style. The red color of the walls is very warm, making this massive square feel very inviting. It's not surprising that it's one of the centers of activity in the city and has been for centuries. In its early days it was a place where you might see bullfights, or even public executions. Now it is home to restaurants with outdoor terrace seating and typical gift shops . Dining or enjoying a beverage at these terraces is time well spent, in my opinion. Bar Postas, Calle de Postas, Madrid I remember going there for the first time. We walked west on Calle Mayor, the road that forms the south side of la Puerta del Sol and heads toward the Royal Palace. We took the first left onto Calle de Esparteros and then immediately right onto the pedestrian Calle de Postas, and continued into the northeast archway of the plaza via Calle de la Sal. I have followed this path countless times over the years. Every time I walk through that archway it almost takes my breath away. Along this path are restaurants, souvenir shops and the like. I am pretty sure I got my first bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) at Bar Postas found on the south side of the road by the same name. You can go there today and the sandwich is the same as it was four decades ago. Very Brief History of the Plaza Mayor Casa de la Panadería, Plaza Mayor de Madrid First opened in 1620, the stunning Plaza Mayor of Madrid is in the Herrerian style of architecture, which is characterized by strict geometry with square shapes and lack of adornment. This was apparently the official architecture of the Hapsburg monarchy under Felipe II. Other examples of this architecture are the Alcázar of Toledo and the El Escorial monastery ; both of which are easy day trips from Madrid. The original construction was completed during the reign of Felipe III whose statue is in the center of the plaza. Casa de la Panadería The northern façade is the fresco-painted Casa de la Panadería (pictured above). Originally serving as the main bakery of the city, it dates to 1590 and the façade has always had frescos. The current frescos are from 1992 when they were restored . They are the works of Carlos Franco and depict the zodiac and mythological figures. Today it houses the Madrid Tourist Board and the Madrid Tourism Center. Casa de la Carnicería Casa de la Carnicería, Plaza Mayor of Madrid Opposite the Casa de la Panadería on the south side of the plaza is the Casa de la Carnicería (pictured here). It was about 1631 when the current structure was rebuilt to match the style of the Casa de ls Panadería after the original structure had burned in a fire. This building was originally part of the meat distribution system of Madrid. It now houses the Pestana Plaza Mayor , a 90-room boutique hotel. The hotel has restaurants, and meeting spaces. Its guest rooms are of modern design and some rooms look into the plaza. As of this writing, the Michelin guest score is 18.4 on a scale of 20. Location of the Plaza Mayor Noting Nearby Dining Establishments of Note La Plaza Mayor de Madrid, 1857 There are nine archways leading into the plaza and outside of them lie streets full of bars and restaurants. Three of them head north back onto the Calle Mayor . If you head through the northwest archway you will find the magnificent Mercado de San Miguel . It was originally a traditional market but now is more of a food hall, with tapas bars and other dining and drinking establishments. Like the Atocha train station, this is one of Madrid's few modernist iron structures . From there, heading south along Cava de San Miguel you will find the Mesone s, traditional bars, each with their own specialty, among them are Meson del Champiñon (mushroom), Meson de la Tortilla (a wonderful Spanish potato and egg omelette), and Meson de la Guitarra , to name a few. From there you can take a sharp left and go up the steps and through the archway back into the Plaza Mayor or continue south. If you choose the former, you will pass Las Cuevas de Luís Candelas , one of Madrid's most traditional restaurants, dating back to the early 1800s (4-star rating on Trip Advisor). If you decide to continue down Cava de San Miguel you will soon arrive at Restaurante Botín , another traditional restaurant (4.3-star rating in Trip Advisor). Opening in 1725, and according to the Guinness Book of World Records is the oldest restaurant in the world! Another of the southern archways goes down Calle de Toledo . Along the way you will find souvenir shops, ice cream and even a Five Guys if you are in the mood for an American hamburger and fries. You can continue south on Calle de Toledo to the La Latina neighborhood full of traditional bars and restaurants and home of the giant flea market "El Rastro" held each Sunday from 9AM to 3PM. Exiting the southeast corner you emerge onto Calle Botoneras with a few bars and on to Calle Imperial where you will find the entrance to the hotel Pestana Plaza Mayor mentioned earlier. And the three archways on the east all take you to more bars and restaurants. They are Calle de Gerona, Calle de Zaragoza, and Calle de la Sal where we entered the plaza. Honestly, no matter the seemingly millions of times I've crossed this plaza, when I'm trying to return to a certain place I get a little confused but I usually pick the right exit on the first try. If not, I'm sure to find more fabulous sites and sounds and can easily reroute having taken a new path. In short, no visit to Madrid would be complete without a visit to this beautiful plaza. The photos don't do it justice. And with all there is to see and do and taste in and around this magical place, you will visit more than once. What did you learn while reading this article that most captured your attention? Have you been to Madrid? If so, what is your favorite memory?

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (temple) in Robbinsville, NJ Our visit to to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir On February 23, 2024 we visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (temple) in Robbinsville, NJ. We had recently heard of this place and were intrigued by it. Before the visit we published a blog post about it, not knowing quite what to expect. We are so glad we went . It was a beautiful day to spend in a wonderfully spiritual place. Largest Hindu Temple in the Western Hemisphere As we mentioned in our previous post, this Mandir (temple) is the largest Hindu temple in the western hemisphere and apparently the second largest one in the world , with a height of 213 feet. Construction began in 2015 and it cost about $96 million to build. The campus is is more than 180 acres, includes 10,000 statues and the largest elliptical dome ever built in stone. In case you were wondering, the largest Hindu temple is Angkor Wat in Cambodia . It was built in the 12th century and occupies more than 400 acres of land. It is said to be the largest religious monument in the world. Before our visit to the temple in Robbinsville we had Thailand on our list of places to visit. Now we think it might be fun to include Cambodia as part of that trip. Golden Statue of Swaminarayan Golden Statue of Swaminarayan Swaminarayan , the subject o the statue pictured here, is worshipped at the temple in Robbinsville. He was a yogi who lived from 1781 to 1830 and his followers believe he was a manifestation of Krishna . In 1792 at the age of 11 he set out on a seven-year pilgrimage or journey of redemption across India through harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain with modest clothing. This golden statue is 49 feet tall representing the 49 years of his life . At the entrance to the temple grounds there are brief narratives you can read to learn the history of Swaminarayan's life and about the temple built in his honor. Traditional Stepped Pond After passing this statue you come to a very large, traditional stepped pond. The pond is filled with water from India's 108 holy rivers and the rivers of all 50 of the states in the U.S. It is meant to represent the importance of community. We took a brief video to give you an idea. But you really need to visit to get the full effect. At the right end of the pond you walk through a gateway to the welcome center where you will be greeted by a friendly volunteer who will ask if it is your first time visiting. Since we had not visited previously, he invited us to view an eight-minute introductory video in one of several small screening rooms. At the end of the video, a door in the back of the room opens automatically where you can exit and find your way to the temple. The Mandir Approaching the temple you pass various intricately carved statues and the walkway to the temple is flanked by fountains . They were not operational when we visited, possibly due to the weather or they may have still been under construction. Some areas of the campus were still being completed. We plan to return later this year to see it during the summer months. We were unable to photograph the inside of the temple as it is prohibited . Just imagine intricately carved white marble columns, statues, and domes. There are various altars with statues of Swaminarayan and other religious figures, some decorated with gold and vibrant colors. The floor is white marble too. You must remove your shoes at the entrance. So, even though there were many visitors, it was very silent and peaceful. Even the small children were mostly silent. The temple seemed to inspire serenity. Plaque with Inspirational Quote On the exterior walls of the temple there were various plaques with information or inspirational messages and quotes. Then there was this beautiful arcade along the side of the welcome center. We were struck by the beauty of this place. Returning to the Welcome Center Beautiful Arcade Outside the Mandir Visitor Center Once back inside the welcome center there is a vegetarian café. It is a grab-and-go setup, not really a cafeteria or waitered experience. There is also a gift shop and we were pleasantly surprised by the very reasonable prices. And there was a small grocery store where we bought a few snacks. The staff was very accommodating and friendly throughout the visit. In short, we recommend this place if you are looking for a unique experience. Planning Your Visit Where is it and when is it open? This beautiful and serene Mandir is located at 112 North Main Street, Robbinsville Township, NJ. It's open every day except Tuesday from 9AM to 7:30PM with a daily Arti ceremony, a ceremony of lights in honor of Swaminarayan. The Arti ceremony takes place at 11:30AM. Have you visited this inspiring place? Leave us a comment to let us know if you plan to visit or what you remember the most from your visit.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir We're Going on an Excursion! Today (February 23, 2024) we will be visiting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (temple) in Robbinsville, NJ. We recently heard of this place and were intrigued by it. We actually sort of remember hearing about it in the news at some point. We learned that it opened to the public in the end of 2023. Following are som high-level details about this place. We will do a follow-up post soon after we visit and we might even go live on Instagram briefly while we are there. This Mandir is the largest Hindu temple in the western hemisphere and apparently the second largest one in the world , with a height of 213 feet. Construction began in 2015 and it cost about $96 million to build. The campus is is more than 180 acres, includes 10,000 statues and the largest elliptical dome ever built in stone. Swaminarayan is the god worshipped here. If you go, check out their website first if you can. A few things to note... You must follow their strict dress code , covering your shoulders and knees and everything in-between. You need to remove your footwear upon entering the temple and you need to silence your phone (and yourself) while inside. Photos are prohibited inside the temple . So, to get the full experience you will need to make a visit. They had been planning to offer audioguides starting in January or February of 2024. So, we hope they have them today. Highlights: At the entrance is a 49-foot statue of Bhagwan Swaminarayan. There is a traditional stepped pond on the campus filled with water from India's 108 holy rivers and the rivers of all 50 of the states in the U.S. There is also the temple itself. And at the center point of the campus is the Akshardham Mahamandir , the grand centerpiece. There is a vegetarian café on the campus that we might check out during our visit. If we do, we will include a review of it in our more comprehensive blog post. Where is it and when is it open? 112 North Main Street, Robbinsville Township, NJ It's open every day except Tuesday from 9AM to 7:30PM with a daily Arti ceremony at 11:30AM. We will write about this ceremony in our future blog post. Have you visited this place or do you plan to go? What captured your attention most about this beautiful temple?

My Homemade Bocadillo de Calamares This will be a quick one... What is a Bocadillo? If you don't know what a bocadillo is in Spanish, it is a sandwich . They are usually on fresh rolls and can have various fillings such as serrano ham (get the ibérico de bellota, trust us), chorizo, lomo de cerdo (pork loin), morcilla (blood sausage), and the list goes on. One of our favorite places for a bocadillo in Madrid is El Brillante . It opened in 1961 and has been a favorite ever since. They have about 20 different bocadillos on their menu. Among them is their signature bocadillo de calamares (large fried rings of squid), called "El Brillante" on their menu. If you aren't great with the language you can just point to the photo near the ceiling and be sure to order it with a beer (una caña). They serve Mahou on tap, our favorite when in Madrid. Here's how to place this exact order at the bar: "ponme un bocadillo de calamares y una caña, por favor."El Brillante is conveniently located directly across from the Atocha train station and an easy walk from the Prado and Reina Sofía museums (among others). And, if you are going clubbing, this might be a solid option for pregaming because they are open until 11:30PM or midnight depending on the day of the week and they are right around the corner from Kapital, one of the hottest night clubs in Madrid. Some Places Specializing in these Sandwiches You may have read our blog post about the Plaza Mayor of Madrid (18 Feb 2024). In that post we mentioned Bar Postas on Calle de Postas. We neglected to mention Cevecería La Campana on Calle de Botoneras. Both of these are also famous for their bocadillos de calamares and they are both just steps away from the Plaza Mayor. In a Pinch You Can Make One at Home (Our Recipe) Yesterday we were compiling a long list of favorite restaurants of Madrid. While doing so, we got a craving for a bocadillo de calamares. We are not in Madrid right now. So, we had our local chef de cuisine (me) whip one up with ingredients we found locally (cover photo). It was not exactly the same. But very close. I think the real difference was the bread. The "barras de pan" (what we might call baguettes) in Madrid are awesome and the ones we get here are a little different. We think it's the tap water, a source of great pride among madrileños. Here is the easy recipe we followed to make one sandwich. Our Bocadillo de Calamares 4 to 5 ounces of large, squid rings* Generous pinch of kosher salt A few tablespoons of flour for dusting Olive oil for frying** Six to eight-inch piece of baguette or other crusty loaf Aioli or mayonnaise, or other sauce of choice (optional) If your squid rings are frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge or follow the quick thaw instructions on the bag. Once thawed, rinse the squid rings and pat them dry between a few layers of paper towels. Heat the oil over high heat until a droplet of water pops on the surface. Meanwhile place the dried squid rings in a small bowl. Sprinkle with salt (a little more than you think) and toss to coat. Sprinkle with flour and toss to coat. shake off the excess flour and fry until they start to become golden, just a few minutes; reduce heat if necessary. Drain on paper towels. I wrapped my roll in foil and heated it for several minutes in a hot oven while I was preparing the squid. To assemble, slice the roll open length-wise but don't cut all the way through. Spread both sides of the roll with aioli or other sauce if using. Fill with the fried squid rings. Take a photo for your social media post, and devour your masterpiece. *To emulate the sandwich you will get in Madrid, they need to be 3/8" to 1/2"-thick rings of squid cut from large tubes. If you can't find them like that, you can use the smaller rings. They will just have a different consistency. **We used a small saucepan with about a quart of olive oil. We store it in a mason jar in the fridge between uses and use it several times so as not to be wasteful. We actually seem to get better results with oil that has been previously used once or twice. If you hadn't noticed, we think a bocadillo de calamares  is more than just a sandwich—it’s a true Madrid classic , perfect for a quick bite before exploring the city or even pregaming before a night out . Whether you grab one at El Brillante , Bar Postas , or La Campana , or try making it yourself at home, this simple yet delicious dish is a must-try for any Madrid foodie . And let’s be honest—paired with an ice-cold Mahou , it’s hard to beat. Have you ever tried a bocadillo de calamares in Madrid? Or do you have another favorite Spanish sandwich? Let’s chat in the comments!

Prado Museum, Madrid So Many Museums to Choose from in Madrid We must admit that despite the vast amount of time we have spent in Madrid, we still have museums to see for the first time and others that we want to see again for their ever-changing exhibits. There are seemingly countless museums to choose from, big and small, each with their own unique treasures. A year ago, we visited a few museums again: the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Velázquez Palace (part of the Reina Sofia in Retiro Park). We had planned to visit the Royal Palace and the Thyssen-Bornemisza, but there wasn’t enough time. We did see one that we had never made it to previously, the Sorolla Museum and we are so glad we did. What an absolute treasure. And then there is the Chamberí metro station museum that we tried to see unsuccessfully at the last minute. Can we count the Museum of Public Art found along the Paseo de la Castellana? Yes, we can. And it was a fun place to hang out for our own personal photo shoot. This list of museums barely scratches the surface of the art-filled spaces in Madrid. In short, Madrid is full of art. In this post we are focusing on this not so short list to cover in a little more detail and we will mention some others that might be just what you are looking for. The Prado Museum The Museo del Prado is perhaps the crown jewel of the museums in Madrid. You could spend the whole day there or just a couple of hours. This spectacular museum houses the works of over 300 artists. I was astounded by this on a recent visit to their website. There are fourteen featured artists listed on the site whose works occupy significant space in the museum. Our favorites include Bosch, Rafael, Titian, El Greco, Rubens, Velázquez, Rembrandt, and Goya. You should visit the official website for a complete list and decide just how much time you will need for your visit. Some of us had visited the Prado several times previously. So, we decided to do a Withlocals tour with a guide who showed and taught us about some of the most important works. Our guide was Majo and she was wonderful. We really recommend this tour. It was two hours long and just right for our group. There are other tours of the Prado available or you can go it alone. If you go it alone, I highly recommend buying tickets online ahead of time. Either way, be early to ensure that you don't miss the time of your visit. Reina Sofia Picasso's Guernica If you were to go to the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia for the sole purpose of seeing one thing it would be Picasso's masterpiece Guernica. This massive painting is full of emotion. It is an absolute must see. The Guernica exhibit includes many of the studies or sketches Picasso did while preparing to paint it. You will want to have at least half an hour to visit just this small section of the museum. We took this approach on our recent visit because, like the Prado, we had visited several times before. We could go see Guernica over and over again. Since our last visit the museum lifted their ban on taking photos of this work. We snuck one or two anyway... Read more about this museum and purchase tickets here . If you have never visited this museum before and you enjoy the sort of art on display there, you will want to plan to spend several hours there. You could possibly spend the morning at the Prado and the afternoon at the Reina Sofia with a break for lunch in between. There is a nice cafeteria at the Prado or you can find plenty of restaurants in the area around the Reina Sofia. We loved sitting around a table during lunch talking about what we had seen and learned at the Prado. There are two other exhibit spaces that are part of the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia in the Retiro Park: Palacio de Velázquez, and Palacio de Cristal. We will write more about these on a future post about Retiro Park. This brief mention will allow you to do your own research if you so choose. You can read more about them on the Reina Sofia site . Time and weather permitting, you could finish your day in the Retiro Park, seeing these additional exhibit spaces and ejoying all that the Retiro Park has to offer. Royal Palace of Madrid Royal Palace of Madrid The Royal Palace of Madrid, also known as the Palacio Real, is a palace that was built in the 18th century, commissioned by the Philip V, the first Bourbon king of Spain. It was built on the site of the old Alcázar which had been built by the Moors who had occupied Madrid, then called Mayrit. The Alcázar had burned down and the Royal palace was eventually built on the site. The architect was Sachetti and he began his work on it in 1738. It was completed in 1764. It is the largest royal palace in Europe and, at 135,000 square meters with 3418 rooms, it is nearly double the size of Buckingham Palace in London or the Palace of Versailles in Paris. Don't worry! You will not be covering all of these rooms during your visit, LOL. We have visited a few times and it is always remarkably impressive. You can download an app on your phone and do the self-guided tour. Just don't forget to bring your ear buds. Purchasing the tickets on line will allow you to skip the line. Just plan to get there a little early so as not to miss your assigned time. Across from the palace to the south is the Almudena Cathedral which is also well worth a visit (more on this in a future post) and the newly opened Gallery of Royal Collections (see below). You really should make time to do this tour if the length of your stay in Madrid permits. Incidently, if you walk down the street behind the Almudena Cathedral you can find a park where you will see remnants of the original moorish wall dating back to the ninth century. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum The last several times we visited Madrid we had the Thyssen-Bornemisza museum on our list but didn't make it. We have been told by our Spanish friends that this is something we should make time for. It just has not worked out because we end up spending a little more time than we thought in other museums. Here you can read about their permanent collection of over 1000 works spanning eight centuries of art. Then if it is of interest to you and you have time to fit it in, click on the tickets link at the top of the page to purchase your tickets online. On Monday afternoons you can see the permanent collection for free (currently). Be sure to check the website for details, though, because this might not always be the case. Caixa Forum Another museum that we love is the Caixa Forum. Near the entrance to this museum there is a massive vertical garden of plants that will make you feel compelled to take a selfie or a family photo. Inside you will get to visit whatever exhibitions are on display during the time of your visit. In 2018 we got to wander through the Andy Warhol exhibit which was incredible. There were interactive areas that were fun for our children (and us). It looks like their website is only in Spanish. So, you may need to do some Google translating in order to learn more or to purchase tickets online. Sorolla Museum We visited the Sorolla museum for the first time in March 2023 and immediately asked ourselves what took us so long. This museum is small and manageable. It is in the former residence of Joaquín Sorolla, a famous spanish artist whose art I would call impressionist with an incredibly beautiful use of light (which I seem to recall he learned by studying Goya, another famous Spanish artist from an earlier period). The home was donated by his wife to be used as a museum. It is a beautiful place on its own with gardens and babbling fountains. You can do this in an hour not counting the time to get there (it is a short taxi or metro ride from the center of Madrid; still in the center but not Sol center). If you can fit this into youre agenda, you will be glad you did. Museum of Public Art The Museo de Arte Público (Museum of Public Art) is a collection of modern sculptures on display beneath an overpass of the Paseo de la Castellana. It is just a nine minute walk from the Sorolla museum. It is an interesting and fun place to visit and hang out and certainly not something you see every day. And when do you get anything beautiful, fun, and interesting for free these days?! Chamberí Station Museum Another museum we have never actually visited despite our best efforts is the Estación Museo Chamberí (Chamberí Station Museum). This is one of the original eight metro stations in Madrid. It is no longer operational and they have turned it into a museum. Only small groups can visit at a time. So, it is not very easy to get tickets. You cannot buy tickets online. You just go to the Plaza de Chamberí and get in line. If you go to www.metromadrid.es , change the language to English, and click on metro museums you might be able to find out more info. Or just google to see if you can find the hours because the website is a little wonky. On the website they describe the museum this way: " By only walking down a few steps into Chamberí Station, it feels like being back in the Madrid of the 50s and 60s. The old Chamberí Station was part of the first Metro Line that opened in Madrid in 1919 with eight stations: Cuatro Caminos, Ríos Rosas, Martínez Campos, (Iglesia), Chamberí, Bilbao, Tribunal, Gran Vía and Sol. In the early 60s, the Compañía Metropolitana made the decision to increase the lengths of trains and since it was not possible for them to make the station bigger, they had to close it. The station was permanently closed on 22 May 1966." On the website they have a few photos that will give you an idea of what you might get to see. Gallery of Royal Collections La Galería de las Collecciones Reales (Gallery of Royal Collections) is a totally new museum that opened during 2023. It had not yet opened when we were there in March. As if we needed another reason to return to Madrid. It is so new that the english version of the website is not yet available. But you can buy tickets online and that section of the website has an English version. The museum was built on the west side of the Almudena Cathedral which is directly south of the Palacio Real. It was built there so as not to interrupt the view of the Campo del Moro, a large, beautiful park with gardens that you will want to wander through after your visit to this museum. There are three floors of the museum. The first floor is dedicated to the Catholic Kings, Isabella and Ferdinand who you might be familiar with from your history classes. They were the monarchs who joined forces and funded the age of discovery of the New World starting in 1492 (among other very important achievements; please fact-check us as we are not historians). This floor is also dedicated to the Hapsburg reign in the 16th and 17th centuries. The second floor is dedicated to the Bourbon monarchy that reigned from the beginning of the 18th century until the present; interrupted for some time when Generalísimo Francisco Franco was in power. The third floor is used for temporary exhibits. On display throughout the museum is a collection of 100 pieces from the royal collections including paintings, sculptures, armor, tapestries and other decorative arts. Among these treasures are works signed by El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya, three of the most famous Spanish artists. With the addtion of this museum, I think it is safe to say that you could spend an entire day just in this section of the city, seeing the Royal Palace, the Gallery of Royal Collections, the Almudena Cathedral, the remnants of the original wall of Madrid, and sunset at the Debod Temple (these last three will be covered in future posts). And when you want to break for lunch, there are plenty of places to eat in this area, ranging from inexpensive to pricy gourmet food. If you have more time, there are so many more museums in this beautiful city. Just google "museums of Madrid," click on the maps link and scroll through the list. It seems to go on forever. There is literally something for everyone. So have a look and plan accordingly. You can keep returning to Madrid and you will always find something unique and interesting. Important note: some museums might require you to show your passport when entering. Plan to bring yours with you and keep it somewhere safe. We love clothing with discreet zipper pockets for this purpose. Summing it all up, Madrid is a city where art, history, and culture flourish at every turn. From world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofía to hidden gems like the Chamberí Station Museum and the Museum of Public Art , there’s truly something for everyone. And now, with the addition of the Gallery of Royal Collections , the city’s cultural landscape continues to expand, offering even more reasons to return. Whether you're drawn to classical masterpieces, contemporary exhibits, or historical treasures, Madrid’s museums promise an unforgettable journey through time and creativity. What’s your favorite museum in Madrid? Or is there one that’s still on your list to visit? Let’s talk in the comments!

Brief History of Valley Forge Many Americans may have learned about Valley Forge and the importance it had in the American Revolutionary War. No battle took place there. Rather, it was part of General George Washington’s strategy for prevailing in the war against the Red Coats. I won’t get too deep into the history because then, what would you have to learn when you visit? I’ll stick to the very high-level info and then share with you some details about what to see and do there. Strategic Location of Valley Forge I’m not a historian, and I might get some of this not exactly right. So, you may want to fact-check me. In 1777 Philadelphia was the largest city in the colonies. It was an important city because the Declaration of Independence had been signed there in 1776 and then it was temporarily our nation’s capital (there was a plan to establish the capital on the Potomac River at some point in the future). The British attacked and took Philadelphia and were occupying the city. George Washington’s army had recently suffered losses in several battles in the Delaware Valley: Brandywine, Paoli, and Germantown. The geography and shape of Valley Forge Park has been likened to a natural fortress . So, it was a good place for the army to encamp for the winter, recuperate, train, and prepare for future battles. Today, Valley Forge National Historical Park (VFP we'll call it) is a very popular place to visit, mostly for the history but also because it abounds with natural beauty no matter what time of year you go. Visiting Valley Forge Park When you arrive to VFP, start your visit at the Visitor Center . There you’ll find printed information about the history and what to see as well as a screening room where you can watch a short orientation film. Be sure to meet the park rangers who staff the Visitor Center. They are not only very helpful but also quite knowledgeable about everything VFP. If you’re so inclined, nearby there is a place in the park where you can rent bikes . So, if biking is your thing, ask one of the rangers how to rent a bike. There are paved trails throughout the park where you can walk, jog, bike; the main loop being five miles. Like any traveler, you might be wondering how much time you should plan to spend at VFP. Well, that depends. It’s worth mentioning the key activities of a typical visit. The main part of your time here will likely be spent touring the encampment. You can do this on foot, or you can take a 90-minute trolley tour around the park; called the Encampment Tour. This trolley runs several times a day from March through December, making extended stops at two key landmarks: Muhlenberg’s Brigade and Washington’s headquarters. Another option would be to do a self-guided tour, taking advantage of your car and the various parking areas around the encampment. If you decide to walk, the visit will take much longer than the trolley tour or driving. The main loop of the paved trails is five miles and there are various offshoots, like the one leading to Washington’s Headquarters, for example. Walking along the paved trails you will see lots of natural beauty, reconstructed log cabins where the troops lived, several impressive monuments and historic buildings including Washington’s Headquarters and the Washington Memorial Chapel, a large church in the neo-gothic style. You’ll have many opportunities to read placards describing what you are seeing. If you are a dog lover, you are in for a treat, especially in the warmer months, when many visitors take family walks or play with their dogs around the park. There are wide-open spaces and shaded areas where you can have a picnic, fly a kite, or just lie in the sun and soak in the rays. Hiking in Valley Forge Park Earlier I mentioned hiking. On the west side of the main area of the park are two foothills with unpaved hiking paths: Mount Misery (larger and more challenging) and Mount Joy (maybe you've heard of the music band by this name). The two foothills are separated by Valley Creek, with its beautiful white covered bridge near the Mount Misery trailhead. There are various trails on each. You could spend hours on these trails challenging your body and seeing stunning views of the surrounding nature. If you plan to hike these trails, be sure to wear sturdy, appropriate footwear because some areas are quite rocky. The trails in VPF connect with other trails, like the Schuylkill River trail that spans 18 miles ending at Boathouse Row in Philadelphia, and Horseshoe Trail that connects with the Appalachian Trail. I trained for my second marathon on the Schuylkill River trail. Many people walk, run, and cycle on this trail whenever the weather permits. So, this park really does have something for everyone. Other Nearby Attractions King of Prussia, PA is right next to VFP. There you will find a casino, Top Golf, and the massive King of Prussia Mall, one of the largest retail shopping malls on the planet. So, you could spend anywhere from a few hours to a couple days if you are a hiker or a shopper, or both! Additional Practical Information Valley Forge National Historical Park recommends making advanced reservations for some aspects of the visit. So, you should call well in advance of your trip to take full advantage of all it has to offer. Click here  for the VFP section of the National Park Service website where you can find answers to many questions and a phone number to call for anything else VFP. Visit Nearby Philadelphia Did you know that Philadelphia is on Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 places to visit in 2024? I know the city well, having lived there and having visited many times. Please be sure to return to this blog in a week or so to read more of our series on Philadelphia and surrounding areas. UPDATE - We've written several articles on Philadelphia. Just use the search box on our blog page to find them! To sum up, Valley Forge isn’t just a place of historical importance—it’s a stunning mix of nature, education, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the encampment, hiking Mount Misery, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, there’s something for everyone. And with its paved trails, fascinating monuments, and deep Revolutionary War history, it’s worth planning a visit. We're lucky to have it practically in our back yard and get to enjoy it frequently. We know you'll love it too. Have you ever been to Valley Forge? What part of the park stood out to you the most? Let’s discuss in the comments!

La Puerta de Alcalá (Alcalá Gate) The Emblematic Puerta de Alcalá We recently wrote an article about the Retiro Park in Madrid . With various entrances, we recommended the one on the southeast side of the Plaza de la Independencia for visitors. It's perhaps the easiest one to find because it's also the location of the emblematic Puerta de Alcalá pictured above. When traffic is light, we recommend getting your photo taken in front of it. What's in a Name? The name of this arch of triumph refers to the smaller city of Alcalá de Henares to the east of Madrid, a university city where I spent a year of graduate school in 1989/90. Alcalá de Henares has a Puerta de Madrid on the west side of town. We will eventually write about this small city, its university, and its literary claim to fame. For now, we will just recommend it as a fun day trip that you can do on public transportation (children will enjoy it too). Update: We wrote about Alcalá de Henares in our article on day trips from Madrid . Be sure to check it out if you're looking for such ideas. Nearby Refreshments Restaurant Terrace, Plaza de le Independencia, Madrid, Spain The Puerta de Alcalá in existence today is actually the fourth version. The third one was demolished in 1764 when King Carlos III wanted to widen a road. He held a contest and Francisco Sabatini's design won. The arch was completed in 1778. It has suffered some damage over the centuries, notably bullet damage from the Spanish War of Independence and the Spanish Civil War. It's still remarkably beautiful and well maintained. Last year when we visited Madrid it was covered by scaffolding for maintenance. But that was completed, and you can see it now in all its glory. And you can see it while enjoying refreshments at one of the various restaurant terraces in the Plaza de La Independencia. We've done so several times and it's always a nice place to hang out. Or, if you're visiting in one of the colder months, you can step inside and sit at the bar or request a table. Worth noting is that the east side of the gate is more ornate because it was meant to welcome visitors and the west side is plainer. And we would be remiss if we didn't mention that it was the first arch of triumph built after the end of the Roman Empire. There's even a song about it that was released in the summer of 1986 performed by Ana Belén and Victor Manuel. I started my undergraduate year in Madrid that fall and can tell you it was a major hit and still is today for those of us who love the music of the 1980s and many others. The Puerta de Alcalá stands as one of Madrid’s most recognizable monuments, blending regal history with stunning architecture. Whether you admire its neoclassical beauty, snap a photo with its ornate façade, or enjoy a meal nearby with views of this historic landmark, it’s a piece of Madrid that’s worth your time. And if you listen closely, the city’s rhythm almost seems to echo the famous song that immortalized it. Have you visited the Puerta de Alcalá? What are your favorite historic sites in Madrid? Let’s talk in the comments!

San Antonio de los Alemanes, Interior When people think about cities with sacred monuments and spaces , they probably don't immediately think of Madrid. They might first think of places like Mecca and Jerusalem. And if the topic is famous cathedrals, they might think of Notre Dame in Paris (to reopen in December 2024). Or, maybe they would remember the Vatican where many tourists visit the Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica every year. They might even think of cathedrals in other Spanish cities like Santiago de Compostela, famous for the pilgrimages on the Camino de Santiago, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, among others. There are many beautiful cathedrals in Spain that you may or may not have heard of before. Sacred Spaces in Madrid Madrid has its own cathedral and a number of other churches and sacred spaces where you can see beautiful stained glass, religious relics, beautiful paintings and tapestries, not to mention the architecture. Here we'll focus on a few that you might want to visit on your first trip to Madrid: the Almudena Cathedral, the Church of Saint Anthony of the Germans (pictured), the Monastery of the Descalzas Reales, the Church of Saint Jerome the Royal, and the Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great. To keep this brief, following is a bulleted list with a high-level overview of each of these places, some key dates, and links to help you plan. The Almudena Cathedral (Catedral de la Almudena) - The seat of the Archdiocese of Madrid, this is a relatively new cathedral. It took more than a century to build and wasn't completed until 1993 when it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II. It was originally going to be constructed in the Gothic style but plans were changed and it ended up being comprised of multiple architectural styles. We really enjoy this cathedral each time we visit. We especially like the motif on the ceilings. It faces the Royal Palace of Madrid and between the two is an area where you can see a stunning sunset. Read more about this cathedral here . Church of Saint Anthony of the Germans (Iglesia de San Antonio de los Alemanes) - This small, oval church dating back to 1630 is hidden in the Malasaña neighborhood a little ways north of the Gran Vía, about half way between the Callao metro station and the Gran Vía metro station. It's a very unassuming brick structure on the outside. So, you might walk by. But step inside and you will be instantly delighted. The walls, ceiling, and dome are all frescoes. Have a seat on one of the pews and take it all in while listening to the soft chanting music they have playing. The official website is only in Spanish and other sources have bad information. So, just note that you can visit Monday through Saturday, 10AM to 5 PM. They are closed for the month of August. Sundays are reserved for religious services. To get there, google this address: Calle Corredera Baja de San Pablo,16 28004 Madrid. It's 5 euros per person, cash only. Monastery of the Descalzas Reales (Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales) - Originally the palace of Carlos I of Spain, his daughter Juana who had been born in the palace converted it into a monastery in the late 1500s. This monastery Was built in the Renaissance style (think geometric shapes, symmetry, arches, domes, columns). The structure also has Baroque elements due to later renovations (baroque is more ornate and meant to trick the eye and create a sense of movement). Follow this link for more information and how and when to visit. Church of Saint Jerome the Royal (Iglesia de San Jerónimo el Real) - This is one of the oldest churches in Madrid and was once part of a monastery that no longer exists. It was completed in 1505, commissioned several years earlier by Queen Isabella, the same Queen of note in the age of the discovery of America. The church has been very well maintained over the centuries. But the monastery suffered considerable damage. Part of what was the monastery is now an annex of the Prado Museum which sits just down hill from the church. This church is of major importance. It originally sat across from the Royal Palace that existed in Retiro Park . It still occupies its original spot but the palace no longer exists. For centuries it was essentially the church of the royalty, the site of coronations and other royal ceremonies. The church was built in the Isabelline Gothic style, in the form of a latin cross. Gothic architecture typically has buttresses, pointed arches, rose-shaped and other shapes of stained glass, and columns. Isabelline Gothic is exuberant and ornate with some Renaissance elements. The facade was later restored in the neo-Gothic Style. There is no cost to enter. So, if you time it right, you could visit either before or after you see the Prado Museum or Retiro Park. Check here for details. The Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great (Basílica Real de San Francisco el Grande)  is one of Madrid’s most striking sacred landmarks, renowned for its immense dome—one of the largest in Spain. Originally a Franciscan monastery, the building underwent a dramatic transformation in 1760, when it was completely demolished to make way for a grander and more architecturally ambitious church. The ambitious redesign was first undertaken by Fray Francisco Cabezas, who envisioned a circular temple crowned by a monumental dome. However, after seven years of work, construction was halted due to disagreements over the dome’s design. Years later, under the patronage of King Carlos III, work resumed under the famed Italian architect Francesco Sabatini, the mastermind behind Madrid’s Puerta de Alcalá and the reconstruction of Plaza Mayor. The basilica was finally consecrated in 1784, and nearly two centuries later in 1963, Pope John XXIII granted it the status of Basilica Minor. Inside, visitors will find breathtaking frescoes, gilded altars, and artwork by Francisco Goya and other celebrated Spanish painters. The basilica’s intricate neoclassical design, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-see for those exploring Madrid’s sacred spaces. This is a place of worship with limited visiting hours for tourists. Click here to find out more.  Madrid’s sacred spaces hold centuries of history, artistry, and devotion. Whether you’re drawn to the striking Almudena Cathedral , the frescoed beauty of Saint Anthony of the Germans , the regal legacy of Saint Jerome the Royal , or the grand Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great , each site tells a unique story. These landmarks offer more than stunning architecture—they provide a deep connection to Madrid’s spiritual and cultural past. Have you visited any of Madrid’s historic churches or monasteries? Which ones stood out to you? Share your experience in the comments!

Templo de Debod, Madrid Madrid's Beautiful Blue Skies and Magnificent Sunsets Madrid Rooftops Beneath a Beautiful Sky When we think of Madrid, many things come to mind, not the least of which are the beautiful blue skies and magnificent sunsets we enjoy there when the weather is clear: which is most of the time. According to TripSaavy.com on November 29, 2020 "Madrid... enjoys around 350 sunny days per year, making it Europe's sunniest capital (an honor it shares with Athens, Greece)." We pretty much knew Madrid had a lot of sunny days from our personal experience but figured some might want a little proof and this is what Google served up when we searched. The photo here is the morning sky over Madrid on Palm Sunday 2018. We had such fun that day! But we digress... Honestly, when we started drafting this yesterday, we were feeling lazy. So we started out by asking Google's Gemini AI chatbot to write an article about sunsets in Madrid; specifically referencing certain places. Yikes! Let's just say the bot had its east and west mixed up and the "how to get there" information it generated would've gotten even Amerigo Vespucci lost. We'd been wondering if AI might be helpful. We now feel that fact checking is an absolute necessity when using it. For now, we'll go with our own knowledge and experience so that you can count on us for inspiration and guidance. Top Places to See the Madrid Sunset Now let's explore several locations where you can view a stunning sunset in Madrid. We think it makes a good evening activity whether you are visiting for the first time or a resident. And if you've just arrived and jet lag is an issue, this is a chill way to spend the evening before grabbing a bite to eat and heading to bed. Some places get more crowded than others. But each has its own charm and history. So, grab your portable picnic blanket and join us (sponsored link to Travel & Leisure's best blanket for 2024). An Egyptian Temple in West Central Madrid On our past several trips to Madrid, we had Templo de Debod on our agenda for viewing the sunset. We typically check to see what time sunset is (use the weather app on your phone or just google it) and plan to get there a half an hour early. There are many shade trees where you can sit on the grass and enjoy a snack and your beverage of choice. Just be discreet if you have an adult beverage. This is where a light-weight portable blanket will come in handy. This ancient Egyptian temple, dating back to the beginning of the second century BC, was a gift to Madrid from Egypt in the late 20th century. It was dismantled and reconstructed in Parque del Oeste. The temple originally stood in Lower Nubia, near the Nile River. When they built the Aswan Dam, this temple was in the flood plain and needed to be rescued from future water damage. Some feel that it should be housed in such a way to protect it from the elements. But for now we can enjoy it where it is. To get there, make your way to Plaza de España and head northwest from there. Between the Royal Palace and the Cathedral In between the Palacio Real (Royal Palace) and the Almudena Cathedral is the Plaza de la Armería which overlooks the beautiful Campo del Moro to the west. This is another great place to see the sunset and watch it bathe the palace and the cathedral with light. Like the Templo de Debod, this is just a short walk from the Plaza de España and you can take the opportunity to wander through Plaza de Oriente, one of our favorite places in Madrid. Park of the Seven Breasts Map Showing Walking Directions to Cerro del Tío Pío Last year we had el Cerro del Tío Pío on our list too. But we just couldn't fit it in. We are headed back to Madrid in September and plan to go there to see the sunset. Also known as the “Park of the Seven Breasts,” we've been told this park offers unique views of central Madrid. It was developed in the 1980s and continues to be a popular place to visit. This is another opportunity to use the blanket you packed. Your best choice for getting there would be to get a taxi or an Uber. This would take you about 7 minutes from the Atocha train station, or longer if you are at a different starting point or if there is traffic. Another option would be to take the metro line one (light blue) to the Portazgo station and then walk 14 minutes. We haven't done this, and we don't know if it's easy to find. If you download the Madrid map for offline use (see below), you can use it to find your way without using your phone's data. Dehesa de la Villa Map Showing Directions From Sol to Dehesa de la Villa Mirador Dehesa de la Villa is a lookout that's away from the central part of the city. We've never been there but we hear it is another great place to see the sunset. This park is on the north-west side of Madrid near the university. It has a rich history dating all the way back to Queen Isabel II’s reign when it was replanted with pine trees. From here you can watch the sunset over the Moncloa neighborhood. Take the metro line 3 (yellow line) to Moncloa. Exit on the east side of Calle de la Princesa, find the stop for bus 82 and take it 13 stops north (about 16 minutes) to Navalperal - Madrigal and then walk about eight minutes. Your map will come in handy for the walk. You could also take a taxi or an Uber, but these were not the preferred means according to Google. Each of these places offers a unique vantage point for experiencing the sunset in Madrid. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a just in search of a place to chill in the evening with your squad, these spots will not disappoint. Travel Tip - Offline Google Maps Downloading a Google map of Madrid for offline use: For iPhone (we tested this on April 23, 2024, but things change). In the Maps app, search for Madrid, Spain. Tap on the resulting map. Swipe up to show the information pane. Tap on the three dots next to the share icon. Tap Download offline map. Zoom in if you want to limit it to a smaller area. Tap download. Then to access the downloaded map.., Tap your profile image. Tap offline maps. Tap the Madrid item. We don't have access to an android phone. But you can search Google and find out how to do this on a different phone if you need to. This is a very nice feature in case you need to find your way and you don't have an international data plan or a local SIM card. Madrid’s sunsets are truly breathtaking, casting vibrant colors over historic landmarks and scenic viewpoints across the city. Whether you choose the tranquil setting of Cerro del Tío Pío, the iconic Templo de Debod, the regal backdrop of Plaza de la Armería, or the Dehesa de la Villa lookout, each location offers a unique experience. With a little planning, you can soak in these golden moments while enjoying the city’s rich history and atmosphere. What’s your favorite sunset spot in Madrid? Or is there another European city where you’ve been equally mesmerized? Share your thoughts in the comments!

LOVE Sculpture, Robert Indiana (1976) Philadelphia, Our Nation's First Capital Suburban Philadelphia is home to us and we’ve lived in and spent a lot of time in the beautiful city of our nation’s birth. As phl.org put it back in 2015, this city “was the meeting place for the 1st Continental Congress, the Constitutional Convention, and became the first capital of the United States.” You can read more about what they had to say about our featured city in their brief article About Philadelphia: A City of Firsts at the link above (retrieved 12 May 2024). While we’re sure other places have their own firsts to claim, we know you’ll enjoy your first adventure in Philly and you’ll want to return to enjoy what you couldn’t fit into your initial visit.   A Guide for First Time Visitors Independence Visitors Center There’s so much to see and do in Philadelphia, a lot more than you can do in a weekend. So we’re here today to tell you what we would do in Philly if we were visiting for the first time and only had a couple of days. A great place to start is Independence Mall. Independence Mall is also known as America’s most historic square mile. To which we ask, why not take it a step further and call it Independence Mile? It’s defined as the three city blocks bounded by the National Constitution Center on the north and Independence Hall on the south. This is where you’ll see the Liberty Bell after you go to the Independence Visitors Center . Day One Start Your Visit at the Independence Visitors Center The visitors center is a good place to start because you can get lots of info and maps to help you find your way. It may also be a good place to end your afternoon because it’s restrooms are impeccably clean and there’s an awesome gift shop where you can get a magnet for your fridge, for example. And we recommend that you scroll through their website before your trip.   What Els Should You Do in This Part of the City? After the visitors center you could go to any of the following places in this small section of the city: the National Constitution Center, Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Christ Church Burial Ground. If you have time left or if any of these don’t sound interesting to you, nearby you’ll also find the Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley and its Museum (on the same street), and the Ben Franklin Museum. Let’s take a glimpse at each of these places, what they have to offer, and how long you need to do them each justice. The National Constitution Center National Constitution Center Located at 525 Arch Street in Philly is the National Constitution Center . This is one of our favorite places. They have a round theater where they do an interactive “We the People” presentation. It’s a must in our opinion. After that you can wander through the museum where you’ll find the info you might have learned about American history in elementary school and much, much more. Presuming that you'll do the “We the People” presentation, you’ll probably need at least an hour here. If you’re one who reads all of the placards, you’re going to need more time. Check it out before you go and plan accordingly. Get a Close Up View of the Liberty Bell The Liberty Bell From the National Constitution Center, Walk a few minutes south, past the Visitors Center, and you’ll find the Liberty Bell Center where you’ll get to see the famous bell. There might be a line to get in. If there's a wait, it'll be 30 minutes or less. You’ll only spend about five minutes viewing the bell. So, maybe budget 40 minutes for this just to be safe. This is the bell that was originally hung in the tower of Independence Hall. We just learned that there are 57 replicas of the Liberty Bell. While you may have seen one of them, the original is found here. If you want a preview, you could spend hours learning about it online. We haven’t done this but we have visited the Liberty bell, both in its current location and before, and we peek through the window at it whenever we find ourselves at 6th and Chestnut. It’s an enduring symbol of American independence and one you will be delighted to see. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Philly Independence Hall, Philadelphia Just across Chestnut Street to the south is Independence Hall , originally the Pennsylvania State house. This beautiful example of Georgian architecture dates back to 1732. It’s distinguished as the place where both our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution were debated, drafted, and signed. You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy this place. We got a little emotional while writing about it. For a virtual preview of this UNESCO World Heritage Site you could watch the movie National Treasure. To see it in person, you’ll need to buy tickets (info at the link above). The tour is about 20 minutes long, but you must arrive half an hour early to clear security. Explore Christ Church Burial Ground Ben Franklin's Grave Another place of interest across South Independence Mall East (we think of it as 5th Street) from the Liberty Bell is the Christ Church Burial Ground . According to the National Park Service, “Christ Church Burial Ground opened in 1719 and remains active today. This is the final resting place of some of our nation’s most prominent founders, including five signers of the Declaration of Independence: Benjamin Franklin, Francis Hopkinson, Benjamin Rush, Joseph Hewes and George Ross.” (retrieved 12 May 2024; their decision to exclude the Oxford comma did not go unnoticed) Your visit may not take much time. But bring a few pennies. Ben Franklin is famous for saying “a penny saved, is a penny earned.” We're frugal. So, we love this quote. In tribute to it, people leave a penny on his grave. More Sites to See Near Independence Mall If you have time left, you might also want to check out the Betsy Ross House , Elfreth’s Alley and its Museum, and the Ben Franklin Museum . Betsy Ross was allegedly the seamstress who sewed the first American flag. She was also the first wife of George Ross' half brother John. Her house is now a museum you might want to visit. Elfreth’s Alley is America’s oldest, continuously inhabited street. There’s a museum you can visit if you go. Head here to plan your visit. And if you and your family want to learn more about the life and contributions of Ben Franklin, there’s a museum dedicated to him with artifacts and interactive exhibits. You’ll need about 30 minutes each for the Betsy Ross House and the Elfreth’s Alley Museum and at least an hour for the Ben Franklin Museum. All are just a few blocks east of Independence Mall in Old City. We Love Reading Terminal Market A Neon Sign at One of the Entrances to Reading Terminal Market With all this sightseeing you’re going to need to eat (and shop). You’re in luck because at some point during your day you can head to the Reading Terminal Market at 12th street between Filbert and Arch. This place is sort of a food Mecca of stalls where you can find everything from flowers, to roasted coffee, to cheeses, cannolis, flavored oils, and various dining options. Think European market with Philly grit. If you were craving a Philly cheesesteak you can get one at Carmen’s or Spataro’s. Apparently the jury is not out on which one has the best “steaks.” In 2016 Philadelphia Magazine chose Carmen’s. We’ve had both and TBH neither disappoints. UPDATE: Just a year after we wrote this we visited the Reading Terminal Market a couple of times to find that Spataro's is gonzo... Now Uncle Gus Cheesesteaks opened near Carmen's and the Spataro stall is vacant (as of April 22, 2025). We had an uncle Gus Cheesesteak on February 15, 2025 and it was one of the best we've eaten (and we've eaten quite a few). Anyway, things change and we don't tend to edit our blog articles for this sort of thing. So check their merchant directory to plan your visit. There’s another popular Philly sandwich you might want to try. It’s roast pork with broccoli rabe. Tommy DeNic’s has them here and they won the best of Philly Magazine in 2013. If you don’t eat meat, there are other options. Frankly, we don’t avoid meat. So, we don’t really know. But Google is your friend. We'll be writing more about Philly sandwiches in a future article. We also enjoy the Down Home Diner when we're not looking for a cheesesteak. After your sandwich or lunch, make room for a cannoli from Termini Brothers . We like the ones with mascarpone and mini chocolate chips. They only have the large ones and they pipe in the filling while you wait. Divine! This market is just a short six block walk from Independence Mall (or take a cab). So, you can split the day and have lunch there, then walk it off in the afternoon. You'll need to because Philly is a foodie city with many great restaurants covering countless cuisines. After dinner, get a good night's sleep because you'll have plenty more to do the next day. Day Two (and Maybe Three) Ben Franklin Parkway Attractions You'll be spending day two (and maybe day three) along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway between the Philadelphia Museum of Art and City Hall. The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a very large museum with 200 galleries. It’s the place with the famous steps Rocky ran up in the movie. And the Rocky statue is at the street level in front of the museum. There is usually a line to see the statue up close. But if you get there early, you might be able to walk right up. You could spend an hour just exploring the area around the museum, running up the steps yourself, checking out the beautiful statue and hanging out in Eakins Oval in front, or learning about the Waterworks behind the museum. Get a Photo of Boathouse Row To the rear of the Waterworks is a large patio overlooking the Schuylkill River where you can get photos of the famous Boathouse Row . Rowing clubs have stored their boats in these boathouses since the 1800s. Of course you could also spend hours seeing the galleries inside the museum. The admission ticket covers two consecutive days and their collection includes works of famous artists from around the world. They have various tours, some of which are free with the admission ticket. But there’s a maximum group size for each and they’re first come first served. Audio guides are available so you can do a self-guided tour. Follow the link above to learn more. The Ben Franklin Parkway is the wide avenue that runs southeast from Eakins Oval to JFK Plaza (AKA Love Park where you can see the iconic Love sculpture). The parkway is lined with national flags from around the world, with signs indicating the country names. We love just walking along the parkway in the shade of the trees, admiring the architecture and the flags. There is the occasional bench where you can relax and take it all in. On the north side of the parkway you'll find the Rodin Museum and the Barnes Foundation . The Rodin Museum has the largest collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin outside of Paris. The beaux-arts style building is itself a work of art. A little farther down is the Barnes Foundation , a unique art museum in that the art is displayed in a very special way. It’s a very large collection of impressionist, post-impressionist, and modern art in a remarkable modern building. Then at the end of the block you’ll reach a traffic circle with the large Swan Memorial Fountain surrounded by Sister Cities Park . On the west side across 20th Street is the Franklin Institute , a science museum that’s fun for the whole family. This is one of our favorite museums with its interactive exhibits where adults and kids alike can learn about everything from electricity to the human heart. If you don’t have time to tour the museum, at least step inside the main entrance to see the beautiful dome and impressive statue of Benjamin Franklin. At the south end of Sister Cities Park is the AMOR sculpture (2015) and a little farther down the parkway is Love Park, home of the iconic LOVE sculpture. According to the Association for Public Art “Robert Indiana is the artist behind the iconic LOVE (1976) sculpture, located in nearby LOVE Park. He created this Latin/Spanish version of the sculpture in response to the changing demographics of the U.S. and his desire to speak to his fellow citizens. As a permanent part of the City of Philadelphia’s public art collection, AMOR serves as a companion artwork to LOVE.” After you visit the AMOR sculpture, and before you head to Love Park, take a step inside the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul to see the beautiful architecture, paintings, stained glass, altar, and chapels. You won’t be disappointed. It’s truly a wonderful sacred space. Then stroll down to Love Park and get a selfie in front of the LOVE sculpture. Pro tip: since the selfie will be a mirror image, take it from the back side of the sculpture. If you have more time, take a walk around nearby City Hall. You can read about its history and that of Philadelphia on the placards in Dilworth Park on the west side of the building. The statue of William Penn tops the tower of City Hall. There’s Philly history associated with this statue. We’ll share that and some fun facts with you in a future article. Steps away from City Hall is the Masonic Temple . It’s a beautiful place and you can take a tour to see it. Per the website, “tours are approximately one hour in length, offered Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. No tours on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays and major holidays, or when Pennsylvania Masonic functions or special events are happening.” If you have more than two days to visit Philly, there’s a lot more to see and do. We’ll share many of them with you in future posts. We recently left a few pennies on Ben Franklin's grave. Have you done this? What are you looking most forward to doing in Philadelphia?