Kwei Quartey, MD, blogs about African writing and literature, African mysteries, being a Ghanaian-American writer, travel to Africa and beyond, human rights, politics, popular culture, and medicine.

Exploring the Covadonga Lakes: Nature's Hidden Gem in Northern Spain Introduction The Covadonga Lakes in northern Spain are more than just a scenic stop—they’re a geological record. Set high in the Picos de Europa mountains, these lakes were carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Today, the area draws visitors for its layered history: the battle that began the Reconquista, the basilica built into the landscape, and the stark white limestone that frames every view. Mount

The Camino Primitivo Begins in Oviedo Walking through Oviedo, you’ll notice bronze scallop shells set into the pavement. These markers...

Oviedo’s Unique Character: The Skyline Without Skyscrapers Oviedo doesn’t need glass towers to impress. Strict urban planning laws keep...

Living in Oviedo, Spain: The Pros Oviedo’s architecture, statues & fountains Short version: elegant, human-scaled buildings—and a...

A Visit to the Policía Nacional HQ Yesterday morning, I found myself at the Policía Nacional HQ in Oviedo. Don't worry; it was just for...

San Francisco Park, Oviedo Next Step in Oviedo Travel Once I woke up on day two, I had two priorities: to wander and observe, and to find...

T4 at Madrid-Barajas Airport Terminal 4 at Madrid–Barajas isn’t just striking—it’s designed to calm. The wave-like bamboo ceiling,...

I’m jumping on for a quick update about my move to Oviedo, España. Last week was stressful as I moved into temporary lodgings at an Airbnb. My lease at my Pasadena apartment had come to an end. Booking an Airbnb—what I'm calling an "Airbnb shuffle"—is always a bit of a gamble. Unfortunately, my first choice was not great. It had an unwelcoming appearance outside. Peeling, bile-colored paint When the Photos Lie Inside wasn’t much better. The cramped quarters looked nothing lik

An African American in Spain – One Month Out I’m holding in my hand the thing that makes it all real. A shiny, official Spanish visa...