our journey begins in
busy, beautiful barcelona!
October 4th and 5th
We arrived in Barcelona two days before our tour began and thoroughly enjoyed the extra time we had to explore this lively and historic city. (It's also a great way to deal with jet-lag.) We visited beautiful parks, took leisurely walks down the pedestrian friendly Ramblas, and strolled the many aisles of the Mercat de La Boqueria, a fabulous market.
After a busy day of sightseeing it was fun to listen to talented street musicians, eat delicious gelato, and attend an amazing concert by Spanish classical guitarist, Manuel Gonzalez.
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Around every corner... line, color, pattern, shadow, texture and form!
October 6th: OUR RICK STEVES' TOUR OFFICIALLY BEGINS
That evening we gathered at our hotel for the "Welcome to Spain" get-together where we were warmly greeted by our guide, Javier Menor. We also met Cary Walker, our assistant guide, and twenty-one of our fellow travelers. We knew (in just a matter of minutes), that we would be spending the next sixteen days traveling with an awesome group of people! Later, we went on a short orientation walk through the neighborhood and had a delicious tapas-style dinner.
October 7th: AN EARLY SUNDAY MORNING STROLL THROUGH THE GOTHIC QUARTER
On all of our city tours we were fortunate to be led by enthusiastic and knowledgeable local guides.
(Rick Steves provides the "best of the best"!)
On all of our city tours we were fortunate to be led by enthusiastic and knowledgeable local guides.
(Rick Steves provides the "best of the best"!)
HERE COMES THE SUN!
If you click on these colorful tiles...
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THE SAGRADA FAMILIA
Antoni Gaudi's Spectacular Cathedral Gaudi designed and worked on this cathedral from 1883 until his death in 1926. Over the years, many talented architects and artisans have continued to build this church. There is hope that it will be completed by 2026, the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death. Gaudi also designed Parc Guell.
This 30 acre park is filled with his colorful tile work and imaginative architecture. |
... you will see the beautiful details!
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Throughout our travels, we saw many interesting people...
from A DIFFERENT POINT OF VIEW!
Carol, a retired 5th/6th grade teacher, thinks that these photos would have been great "story-starters".
She also admits to sometimes feeling like the paparazzi as she dashed through the streets to get that perfect shot!
from A DIFFERENT POINT OF VIEW!
Carol, a retired 5th/6th grade teacher, thinks that these photos would have been great "story-starters".
She also admits to sometimes feeling like the paparazzi as she dashed through the streets to get that perfect shot!