i traveled to northern spain to visit carlos and his family. he had lived with us for the past year, and i was anxious to see him again, and to see the places he talked about, the foods, and the way of life. i had some difficulties in madrid airport with my transfer to iberia, but was assisted by a porter and an agent for the airlines , right to my gate!! i spent 2 weeks with the fernandez family and was treated very warmly and like a queen. they were most anxious to show me their towns, and all the old cathedrals and monuments. the food was challenging for my system, i was not used to all the beans!! but i was grateful for the experience, and tried all. i ventured one day , on my own, to a large and modern grocery store"carreforrs". i wanted to make an "american" dinner for my hosts. i was very nervous at the thought of having to communicate for special ingrediantes, since the only phrase i knew was "no hablo espanol". but nerves were quickly settled when a friendly face took the time to assist me. i would highly encourage any visitors to this beautful and friendly area of spain. i had all positive experiences. and the shopping was fantasic in ovieda!! i came home with 6 pair of shoes!!

Oviedo is a town made for people,not cars. most streets are just for pedestrians so you can walk around downtown without thinking about cars or anything. besides its known as the cleanest town in Spain. You can walk around easily as it is a small town and if you are interested in culture there are several monuments from the 9th century which are world heritage. We are also proud to have the only gothic cathedral with just one tower as they didnt have more money for the 2nd one.... thats life!

Around the city hall things start boiling up at around 2 am and round there you can find some of the best pubs in town. If you wanna see live an Asturian atmosphere that foreigners love you should go to Asturianu. It will be crowded with exchange students on thursday night. If you like black music and a club environment you will love Planeta Tierra, next door from Asturianu. Planeta Tierra closes around 5:30 am and from there, who know where you will end up....