spain

I’m Back!

HE, San Sebastian

…from both my Spain trip and my brief time unplugging!

My family and I squeezed in a ton, during our vacation! I’m still wowed at all we were able to do. We hiked mountains, explored cities, walked throughВ vineyards, and ateВ countless pintxos.

We started our 11-day northern Spain trip in and around Bilbao. Then we headed west to the Picos de Europa, then southeast to the La Rioja wine region. We finished up in San Sebastian—a city that’s pretty much my idea of a perfect place. (Where the above photo was taken.)

Most importantly, I’m glad I hadВ that time with four of my favorite people: my mom, stepdad, Mal and Peter.

I’m excited to share photos and highlights over the next several posts.В And I’m looking forward to evolving this space!

Like I mentioned in my last post, I’d fallen into the blogger trap of feeling pressured to post more frequently. As a result, I hadn’tВ been spending enough time on the posts I most enjoyed writing: longer pieces about places I’ve visited, meals I’ve eaten, thoughts on stories I’ve read. I’m planning on sharing moreВ of that kind of content with accompanying original photography—as I learn to use the DSLR I recently acquired! (So bear with me on that!)

I will, of course, still share photos and art projects that I’ve stumbled upon and enjoyed. But those will hopefully make up a smaller portion of my posts.

If you don’t already, please sign up to get my post notifications by email, via the box in the right rail. Or, follow me on Twitter.

I’m happy to launch intoВ this new evolution of NYC Expeditionist! Thanks for joining meВ on the journey. рџ™‚

Fall Vacation, Booked: Northern Spain

Errezil view by Oskar Calero on Fivehundredpx

I couldn’t be happier. Over the past few weeks, my family and I have been discussing possible destinations for a fall trip. This weekend, we decided on a place and booked flights: We’re headed to northern Spain at the end of September!

None of us have been there before. (I’ve actually never visited Spain!) To be honest, I didn’t know much about the area until I started researching. But the more I read, the more excited I became. It seems that northeast Spain has pretty beaches, amazingВ mountains, picturesque vineyards and quaint towns.

We’re still figuring out how we’ll break down our 11 days there, but here’s the rough itinerary we’re considering: We’ll spend the first few days outside Bilbao, exploring the area and neighboring Asturias. From there, we’ll drive to La Rioja, and enjoy some time among the vineyards. Then, we’ll head north, into the French Pyrenees. We’ll finish up with a few days in and around San Sebastian. (Perhaps including Errezil, the place in the photo above.)

Though it’s going to be my first time in Spain, I’m okay with bypassing Madrid and Barcelona. I’d love to spend time exploring both places, but I really need a break from hectic city life. I’m very much looking forward to more low-key enjoyment—and lots of gorgeous scenery.

Have you been to northern Spain or southern France? If so, I’d love to hear your recommendations!

(Image by Oskar Calero via 500px on Pinterest)