Joseph recently took a quick break from all of his hard work here at DLG to visit one of the most important (and beautiful) archaeological sites in Catalonia, Spain. Located in the Gulf of Roses on the Costa Brava, the Ruins of Empúries are filled with both Greek and Roman treasures. These ruins, considered the gateway to the Iberian Peninsula for many, feature walls, columns, streets, houses, painting, mosaics, and more, from both the Greeks, who first founded their colony here in 6th Century B.C., and the Romans, who later occupied this area in 1st Century B.C. With more than 2,500 years of history here, it is easy to get a glimpse of what life was like for both ancient cultures. You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and all of the beaches and coves surrounding the ancient ruins. Don’t enjoy the views too much though, Joseph. We all need you back here at DLG soon!
Joseph and Radford Got Married!
While some of you may have noticed Joseph’s brief hiatus from our blog, we are happy to share that it is only because he recently got married to Radford, in Begur, Spain! Begur is a small, historic town located in Catalonia, Spain where tourists can see breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea from Castell De Begur, or enjoy some tapas and wine in the center square. Joseph and Radford chose Begur as their wedding location because it has been the location of several milestones of their relationship together, including their first international trip together and where they got engaged! Their wedding date also coincided with Fira d’Indians, a three day festival that takes place in Begur every year. The festival celebrates the town’s strong ties to Cuba, as many families migrated from Begur to Cuba during the 19th century. Fira d’Indians is filled with food, music, performances, and crafts. Joseph and Radford’s wedding guests were able to enjoy the festival, while celebrating the wedding over several days. There was no shortage of dancing and good cheer! All of us here at DLG wish Joseph and Radford a lifetime of health, happiness, and adventure!
Sagrada Familia
While all of us here at DLG are getting ready for fall, our very own Lizzie B. is soaking up the warm weather in Barcelona! She recently visited Barcelona’s most breathtaking Basilica, Sagrada Familia. Renowned architect Antoni Gaudí originally masterminded the church’s design in 1883, taking inspiration from both nature and Christianity. Sagrada Familia's construction relied solely on private donations, so progress was slow. This progress was interrupted during the Spanish Civil War, but construction resumed in 1939 and has continued for the last seventy-eight years. With only seventy-percent of the church presently completed, it is not expected to be finished until 2026. A wonderful example of Gothic architecture and Catalan modernism, the Sagrada Familia is also an excellent example of Gaudi’s love of color, which he said was the expression of life. Natural light was a primary focus, which Gaudí used to uniquely compliment his architectural designs by allowing the sunlight to glisten through the tall towers and beautiful stained glass windows. As you can see, when the sunlight hits the stained glass windows, the whole church shimmers with bright colors!
Greetings from Begur!
Joseph, our esteemed HR Manager and Blog Editor is taking the Labor Day holiday to the next level. He left this week for a wonderful vacation in Begur, Spain, a small town in Costa Brava that was deemed a "hidden holiday treasure" by The Guardian. Begur is known for its stunning beaches and historical landmarks, including medieval castles constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries. As you can see, Joseph is working hard on his Spanish language skills. He has figured out that "hola" means hello. Good job, Joseph! Keep up the studies! Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!
El Tapas de Begur
The tapas. Try some—they go fast.
In Begur, a charming town in the Costa Brava region of Spain (where I also visited last summer), there is this tiny but famous place that serves some of the best tapas you'll ever eat. So order a gin and tonic or sangria and try one. And then another. Okay, one more. Seriously, you won't be able to stop.
How to spend your days if you ever find yourself in beautiful Begur, Spain
11am - Wake up and go get a coffee and croissant at cafe down the street; 12pm - Go to beach and lie there for a while and then go in water; 1pm - Drink sangria sold in to-go cups on the beach; 2pm - Go to lunch and sit for two hours and drink at least one bottle of wine; 4pm – I’m tired, let’s siesta; 6:30pm – Check office email; 7pm - Gin and tonics and tapas; 8:30pm - Evening stroll in plaza and around town to look at medieval castle on top of hill (see above); 10pm - Time for dinner; 12am - Did we eat enough today? No, how about we get gelato and crêpes?