Totally Onboard for Toledo

Our train ride from Madrid to Toledo took about 20 minutes. Then on arrival at the Toledo train station we jumped on a tourist bus (complete with audio headsets) and climbed up the hill. And all that is Spain was before us.

This beautiful and majestic countryside is what we all had imagined when we closed our eyes and dreamed of Spain.

My sisters forgot my Rules 1-3:

1. Wear socks. This is true in life and travel because socks are awesome.
2. Wear comfortable shoes. 
3. Dress in layers. 

Within minutes of arriving in Toledo, Judy’s teeth were chattering. I think perhaps she was dehydrated because it wasn’t really that cold but, less than a football field’s walk through town, all my sisters were shopping inside a (heated) clothing boutique. Judy and Dorothy bought coats and Marsha bought a shirt. (I hope they didn’t forget crucial Rule 4: Bring a giant suitcase and leave loads of room for purchases).

We visited several churches and a synagogue. Toledo is historically notable for its diversity of religion and their citizens’ ability to live peaceably together. Although, it should be noted, Toledo was also the capitol of the Spanish Inquisition (the building where the trials and torture took place is now a night club).

We had lunch on the terrace of a sweet restaurant in the Jewish quarter and enjoyed two bottles of wine.

Wine, it is a well known fact, is a promoter for more shopping. So off we went. This time for Marsha to purchase shoes for her swollen and blistered feet. (See Rules 1 and 2).

We met a French couple who tagged with us for a bit. Neither of them spoke English so The Husband and I were able to use a little of our French. I tried to learn Spanish before the trip but my brain kept moving to Italian and French. Stupid cerebral cortex.

Toledo reignited our imagination and passion for travel in Spain—Marsha and I might even take some Spanish lessons this summer. Thank you Toledo for giving us a glorious final day in Spain and adios.

We are all back on a plane heading north to our beautiful Paris. My sisters will go to bed tonight near the airport for their flight home tomorrow. I miss them already.

Dorothy. Always laughing. Always up for adventure. Spontaneous. When she’s happy, I get warm inside my heart.

Judy. Always curious. Always searching and learning. Always caring. Makes me feel like I’m the most special girl on the planet.

Marsha. Always agreeable. Always easy. Fiercely loyal. When she laughs, it’s like I’m seeing the face of an angel.

I love them so.