The Zoo

Dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi

The girls were a little anxious to leave the base, since they don't speak Spanish and were worried about not understanding people. Frankly, so were their parents. It's amazing how dumb you can feel when you're don't even know how to ask the most basic questions. But, since this is our Carpe Diem moment we decided to venture somewhere safe and easy. What better place than the zoo!

Animals look the same and sound the same, whether you're in Spain or the United States. So off we went to the city of Jerez, our closest Zoo. Surprisingly enough it was fairly easy to get in, sign up for year passes and navigate the Zoo. Armed with our favorite phrases "Gracias" and "Por Favor" we were able to do all right. They may have thought we were stupid Americans, which we kind of where, but it boosted our confidence.

The Zoo was just what we needed. Plus Erin and was able to see her most favorite animal up close. I loved that there was a monument to Saint Francis of Assisi (Patron Saint of animals) in the Zoo and we all loved spending time together.


Yes, the Giraffe was close enough to feed. In fact, you could have fed it anything you wanted. Plenty of people were.