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  • Madrid: More Than Just a Stopover – A Spanish Delight

    Madrid Spring of 2025

    Madrid, the vibrant heart of Spain, often gets overshadowed by its coastal cousins, but trust me, this city pulses with an energy and charm all its own. From world-class art to mouthwatering tapas and a weather forecast that consistently leans towards “glorious,” Madrid deserves a prime spot on your travel list. Come along as we dive into the must-see attractions and even venture out on a captivating day trip.

    Immersing Yourself in Art and History:

    No trip to Madrid is complete without a visit to the “Golden Triangle of Art.” Start at the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by Spanish masters like Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer scale and historical significance of the art within its walls.

    Next, wander over to the Reina Sofía Museum, where Picasso’s iconic “Guernica” takes center stage. This powerful anti-war painting is a truly moving experience. The museum also houses works by Dalí and Miró, offering a fantastic overview of 20th-century Spanish art.

    Finally, complete the triangle at the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, which bridges the gap between the Prado and Reina Sofía with its diverse collection spanning various periods and styles.

    Beyond the art, immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Madrid. This official residence of the Spanish Royal Family, though mostly used for state ceremonies, offers opulent interiors and stunning views. Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony!

    Take a stroll through the sprawling Retiro Park, a green oasis in the city center. Rent a rowboat on the lake, admire the Crystal Palace (Palacio de Cristal), or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere. On weekends, you’ll often find street performers and local vendors adding to the lively ambiance.

    Tapas, Wine, and Sunshine: The Madrid Way of Life:

    Madrid truly comes alive in its bars and restaurants. Embracing the tapas culture is an absolute must. Hop from bar to bar, sampling small plates of culinary delights paired with local wine or a refreshing caña (small beer). Be sure to try classics like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), tortilla española (Spanish omelet), and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).

    And then there’s the iconic Calamari Sandwich (Bocadillo de Calamares). While it might sound simple, this deep-fried squid served in a crusty roll is a Madrid staple, particularly around the Plaza Mayor. Grab one from a local vendor and experience a true taste of the city.

    Speaking of drinks, Spanish wine is renowned, and Madrid offers plenty of opportunities to savor a good glass. From crisp whites to robust reds, don’t hesitate to ask for local recommendations. Enjoying these culinary delights on a sunny terrace, with Madrid’s vibrant energy surrounding you, is an experience you won’t soon forget. The weather in Madrid, especially during spring and fall, is often described as perfect – sunny with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring.

    Beyond Madrid: A Day Trip to Avila and Segovia:

    For a change of pace and a glimpse into Spain’s rich history, consider a day trip to the nearby cities of Avila and Segovia.

    Avila, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its perfectly preserved medieval walls. Walking along these ancient fortifications offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Explore the charming Old Town within the walls, visit the Avila Cathedral, and indulge in the local specialty, chuletón de Ávila (a thick-cut steak).

    Just a short drive away lies Segovia, another UNESCO gem. Its most iconic landmark is the stunning Roman Aqueduct, a marvel of ancient engineering that still stands proudly in the city center. Explore the Alcázar of Segovia, a fairytale-like castle that once served as a royal residence. Don’t leave Segovia without trying the cochinillo asado (suckling pig), a local delicacy.

    Why Madrid Should Be Your Next Adventure:

    Madrid offers a captivating blend of world-class culture, delicious food, fantastic wine, and consistently pleasant weather. Whether you’re lost in the masterpieces of the Prado, soaking up the sun in Retiro Park, or savoring tapas in a lively neighborhood bar, Madrid has a way of enchanting every visitor. And with easy access to historical gems like Avila and Segovia, your Spanish adventure can be even more enriching. So, pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to experience the vibrant heart of Spain – you won’t be disappointed!

  • The Fleur-de-Lis: A Symbol of Scouting and Beyond

    The Fleur-de-Lis: A Symbol of Scouting and Beyond

    The fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily flower, is a symbol rich in history and meaning. It has been used for centuries in various cultures and contexts, and its enduring appeal is evident in its widespread adoption as a symbol of the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

    Historical Significance of the Fleur-de-Lis

    While the exact origins of the fleur-de-lis are debated, it’s clear that its symbolism has evolved over centuries. Some historians trace its roots to ancient Egypt, where similar motifs appeared in hieroglyphics. Others point to its association with the lily flower, a symbol of purity and innocence in many cultures

    The fleur-de-lis became closely associated with the French monarchy during the Middle Ages. Legend has it that a golden lily appeared miraculously to Clovis I, the first king of the Franks, as a sign of divine favor. This event solidified the fleur-de-lis as a symbol of French royalty.  

    Over the centuries, the fleur-de-lis appeared on French coats of arms, flags, and royal seals. It was a symbol of power, sovereignty, and the divine right. The fleur-de-lis, often associated with French royalty, has roots dating back to the Merovingian dynasty. It has been used as a symbol of purity, light, and life. In heraldry, it represents courage, nobility, and loyalty. The fleur-de-lis is also associated with the Virgin Mary and has been used in religious iconography.

    In Christian art, it is often used to represent the Trinity or the Virgin Mary. The three petals of the flower can symbolize the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

    The Fleur-de-Lis and Scouting

    Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting movement, chose the fleur-de-lis as the symbol of Scouting for several reasons:

    1. Simplicity: The fleur-de-lis is a simple yet recognizable symbol that can be easily drawn and reproduced.
    2. Positive Associations: The symbol’s historical and cultural significance aligns with the values of Scouting, such as honor, courage, and service.
    3. Direction: The three petals of the fleur-de-lis can be interpreted as representing the three Scout Laws: A Scout’s honor is to be trusted, A Scout is loyal, and A Scout is helpful.

    When Baden-Powell first introduced Scouting, he initially used an arrowhead as the symbol. However, this symbol was met with criticism as it was seen as too militaristic. To address these concerns, Baden-Powell replaced the arrowhead with the fleur-de-lis, a symbol of peace and purity. He saw the three points of the fleur-de-lis as representing the three parts of the Scout Promise: Duty to God and Country, Duty to Others, and Duty to Self.

    In 1909, two stars were added to the emblem. These stars represented the two eyes of a Wolf Cub, symbolizing the opening of a young Scout’s mind to the world. Later, the ten points of the stars came to represent the Ten Points of the Scout Law.  

    In the mid-20th century, the World Crest was added to the Scout emblem. It symbolizes the unity and diversity of the worldwide Scouting movement.  

    The Scout emblem continues to evolve, adapting to the changing times. Recent redesigns have focused on modernizing the symbol while preserving its core values and heritage. The fleur-de-lis remains the central element, representing the enduring spirit of Scouting.  

    The fleur-de-lis has become a powerful symbol of Scouting, representing the organization’s commitment to character development, citizenship, and personal fitness. It continues to inspire young people around the world to embrace the values of Scouting and make a positive impact on their communities.

  • Iceland in November

    Exploring Iceland: A Four-Day Adventure in Reykjavik and Beyond

    Iceland is one of those dream destinations that promises a blend of raw natural beauty, fascinating history, and a unique culture. From the stunning Northern Lights to geothermal wonders and world-class cuisine, my recent trip to Reykjavik had it all. Here’s a rundown of my whirlwind four-day journey through Iceland, including some must-see attractions and insider tips.

    Day 1: Arrival in Reykjavik

    I left Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and after a smooth transatlantic flight aboard Icelandair, I landed in Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Iceland is only about a 7-hour flight from the U.S., so it was an overnight journey that brought me to the land of fire and ice in no time.

    After clearing customs, I picked up my rental car from Hertz, which was conveniently located at the airport. Pro-tip: Having a car in Iceland can make a huge difference, as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

    My first stop in Reykjavik was Kökulist Bakery a charming local spot in Njarðvík. They serve mouth-watering pastries, and I couldn’t resist grabbing a coffee and a traditional Icelandic cinnamon roll, which was the perfect way to start the day.

    Afterward, I checked into my hotel, the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre (3:00 PM GMT). This stylish, modern hotel is located right in the heart of Reykjavik, making it the perfect base for exploring the city.

    For lunch, I visited Aurora Reykjavik, a center dedicated to the Northern Lights. While I wasn’t lucky enough to see the aurora that day, the exhibits and informative presentations were fascinating, providing insight into the science behind the phenomenon. If you’re visiting during winter months, be sure to keep an eye on the skies at night—you never know when the Northern Lights might appear!

    In the afternoon, I visited the Lava Show, a thrilling and educational experience where you get to see molten lava in action! The lava is heated to nearly 1,500°F, and watching it flow was truly mesmerizing. It’s an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in the power of nature.

    For dinner, I dined at TIDES Restaurant a fantastic spot offering fresh seafood and stunning views of Reykjavik’s harbor. The Icelandic fish stew was a highlight, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of adventure.

    Day 2: Relaxing and Exploring Reykjavik

    On the second day, I started my morning with a visit to Sky Lagoon in Kópavogur. The Pure Pass Experience included access to the geothermal pools, which were incredibly soothing. The views of the ocean and nearby mountains added to the magic of the experience. If you want to unwind in style, this is the place to go.

    Next, I visited Perlan, a museum housed in a futuristic dome with exhibits on Iceland’s nature, glaciers, and volcanoes. The highlight was the observation deck, where I got a panoramic view of Reykjavik.

    Later in the afternoon, I made my way to the Christmas Market in Hafnarfjörður, where I wandered through festive stalls selling local crafts, hot chocolate, and Icelandic delicacies. The charming village atmosphere was the perfect setting for getting into the holiday spirit.

    That evening after checking out the Christmas Market I was fourtante to find the best hot dog in all of Iceland; Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. These dogs are made with lamb, beef and pork with a onion base layer. They are topped with mustard and ketchup if you ask for it.

    Day 3: The Golden Circle and Northern Lights Tour

    The highlight of my trip came on the morning of my third day when I joined the Golden Circle Tour, one of Iceland’s most popular excursions. This 300-kilometer loop took me to three iconic sites: the Þingvellir National Park, where you can stand between two tectonic plates; Gullfoss, a stunning waterfall; and Geysir, where the Strokkur geyser erupts every few minutes. These natural wonders truly showcased Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

    In the afternoon, I visited the shops in downtown Reykjavik which had a magical vibe. It was the perfect opportunity to do some last-minute shopping and soak in the holiday atmosphere.

    For Dinner I was treated to a traditional meal at Íslenski barinn. This down to earth restaurant offers superb Icelandic dishes ranging from ‘hot dogs’ to shark, reindeer and whale. I had the Christmas platter that had a beautiful spread of smoked lamb, reindeer meat balls and mackerel.

    That evening, I went on a Northern Lights Tour with Reykjavik Excursions. While the aurora didn’t make an appearance that night, the tour was still an amazing way to experience the Icelandic wilderness under a blanket of stars. Definitely something to add to your Iceland bucket list.

    Day 4: FlyOver Iceland, Hallgrimskirkja and Departure

    On the final day of my trip, I headed over to FlyOver Iceland, a thrilling virtual flight experience over Iceland’s stunning landscapes. This immersive ride made me feel like I was soaring above volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. A must-see for anyone who wants to experience Iceland from a bird’s-eye view, especially if you’re short on time.

    I made my way to Hallgrimskirkja, one of Reykjavik’s most iconic landmarks. The church’s striking architecture and panoramic views from the tower were a great way to end my Icelandic adventure. The line to get to the top was very long and only a few can go up at a time and instead I spent my time looking at the huge organ and beautiful church.

    It then was time to start going back to the airport but first another stop at Kökulist Bakery. I filled up with gas and dropped off my rental car at the airport, ready to board my return flight back to RDU. The plane back was a standard 737 and the crew was nice and helpful.

    Final Thoughts

    Iceland is a place like no other. From the unique landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals, every part of my trip was filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or the chance to witness one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on Earth, Iceland delivers in spades. If you’re planning your own trip, be sure to take time to soak in the geothermal wonders, explore the charming cities, and keep your eyes on the skies for the Northern Lights. It’s a destination you’ll never forget!

    If you’ve been to Iceland or are planning your own trip, I’d love to hear about your experiences or any recommendations you may have. Safe travels!