Rota, Andalucía (Spain)

Checked out of my room at the Mid-Atlantic Lodge VERY early - it was still dark when we got to the aircraft. Sun came up as we were getting ready to take off from Lajes Air Base. I was surprised to see very rocky terrain visible this morning; there was a BIG mountain was near the airfield (I didn't see that yesterday...). Our flight to Europe was smooth until we got stuffed (descent clearance issued very late) on the arrival to Rota.  Fortunately, Jamie helped me out... This was my first time on mainland Spain and it seems like a nice place - even in winter, beaches look very inviting... We had a good fuel turn and no problems on the way to Sicily.  I saw Gibralter and Ibiza on the way - Sardinia too. After landing in Sigonella, we got our check-in brief and then headed to the Bachelor Housing check-in. Along with other "firsts" today, I realized I hadn't been on this island since 1999.  This time I got a much better room! [Dinner in Motta ?]