Plazas

There was a time when cities and towns were designed to be experienced, not circumvented by outer roads and by-passes. Nothing brings this concept home to me more that the plazas of Spain. The plaza is a place of beauty and liveliness. It is a place where families and friends connect , as they have for generations. Often shaded from the warm sun, sometimes lined with cafes and neighborhood bars and restaurants, usually containing a statue or monument to remember something significant in the life of the community.

I am envious of these settings and wish that they were found more often in my own country. They seem to say to those who visit them that life is meant to be savored and that it's important to spend time in social interactions. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I've enjoyed New Mexico's Santa Fe and Old Town Albuquerque with their strong Spanish designs. Unfortunately, my own community had a plaza when I first moved here, then converted back into a through street in order to "facilitate cross-town traffic" and "better access to stores". Many Americans have a car mind-set and prefer it to walking. Oh, well.

Thank you for visiting, please come again. If you happen to know any other places where I can experience plazas, town squares, and similar settings please let me know. I will definitely include them on my list of "places to visit". Until the next time, may your travels be interesting and enjoyable.

Kerry