Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain

Marques de Riscal is a famous winery that has done many clever and interesting things. In recent times, they hired architect Frank Gehry to design a hotel for the Elciego, Spain, location. Here’s a look at the building:

Frank Gehry designed Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain.

Frank Gehry designed Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain.

That is one funky design that definitely catches your eye. It’s set amid vineyards at the edge of the village of Elciego. Here’s a look at the other side:

Frank Gehry designed Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain.

Frank Gehry designed Hotel Marques de Riscal, Elciego, Spain.

The terrace you see there is a great place to sit for a drink supplied by the bar inside. I’ll have a post about that very soon. In the mean time, I suggest you check this place out if you are interested in architecture, wine, both, or simply like to see the creative expressions of others put to good use. Enjoy the journey.

Published in: on June 23, 2014 at 7:13 am  Comments (1)  
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Hotel Puerta de Pamplona

Hotel Puerta de Pamplona recently changed its name from Hotel Puerta del Camino. Located at the edge of the old town, it offers comfortable rooms, an excellent restaurant, and off-street parking.

Facade of Hotel Puerta del Pamplona, formerly Puerta del Camino.

Facade of Hotel Puerta de Pamplona, formerly Puerta del Camino.

I highly recommend the off-street parking. There are very few places in this part of town, and your vehicle will be right there if you want/need it. Moving inside, you’ll find a welcoming lobby with plenty of seating. The rooms are well-appointed.

Standard room at Hotel Puerta del Pamplona.

Standard room at Hotel Puerta de Pamplona.

Complete with safe, mini-bar, clothing rack and more:

Other view of standard room at Hotel del Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Other view of standard room at Hotel de Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Bathrooms have everything you need as you see in the next photo:

Bathroom in standard room at Hotel Puerta del Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Bathroom in standard room at Hotel Puerta de Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

As well as a nice amenity kit that will come in handy and save you packing space.

Bathroom amenities in standard room at Hotel Puerta del Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Bathroom amenities in standard room at Hotel Puerta de Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Finally, here’s a view of an outdoor gathering space as well as the parking. Again, I highly recommend paying for parking at the hotel.

Parking at Hotel Puerta del Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

Parking at Hotel Puerta de Pamplona, Pamplona, Spain.

I had a great stay here. Sadly, only one night, but did explore the town, see the sights, and have a few conversations with the locals. Also, a great meal at the hotel restaurant, La Capilla. More on that in a future post, so check back often.

 

Published in: on June 20, 2014 at 7:36 am  Leave a Comment  
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Buffam’s Tropical Haven, Aruba, video

My shack in Aruba needed some major interior work, which meant I was going to be out doors for a few days. This wasn’t the first time, but luckily, I have a great place to tuck in, and that is Buffam’s Tropical Haven. This is a bed and breakfast type of establishment with just a few suites available. Here’s a video that shows you Buffam’s rooms and common areas, as well as how to get there from the main highway.

As you saw in that video, Buffam’s is a cozy spot. You have a swimming pool, the barbecue, and those patios almost all to yourself. And check out their prices! You’ll be surprised at how reasonable it is to stay there, which means you can stay longer or have more cash to enjoy during your visit to the island. I’m back in my own digs but still stop by Buffam’s for coffee and a chat because, well, it’s a comfortable spot with great hosts.

Published in: on February 11, 2012 at 9:32 am  Leave a Comment  
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Posada del Duratón, Spain

Posada del Duratón is located in a rural area approximately an hour’s drive from Segovia.

There are nearby hunting preserves and a natural park for the outdoor minded guest. It surely is quiet here. There is an on-site restaurant for supper and breakfast. I would go with the breakfast and skip the supper. Here’s a look at the dining room.

There are a number of pleasing outdoor spaces including these balconies and cloisters.

Once in your room, you’ll find plenty of amenities, too.

The toilet was located in a separate space with no sink, but coming out and to the other end of the room, you’ll find the sink…

and a shower/tub…

There was no curtain or glass door for the tub which made showering tricky. Someday, I’ll have to find someone to show me the proper way of using this type of installation without getting water on the floor. Anyway, my stay was comfortable and interesting as I used the posada as a base to explore nearby Segovia and some small spots along the way. You’ll also find some trinkets for sale in the lobby, ones that are actually made by local artisans. They are worth the time to check them out. As mentioned before, Spain is a wonderful country to explore, especially the places a little further afield.

Published in: on October 3, 2010 at 1:05 pm  Leave a Comment  
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