3 major cities, 2 countries, 2 dear friends, 3 UNESCO world heritage sites, 7 Spanish masters, 3 museums, 1 final train ride on our EuRail Pass, 10,000 Christmas lights popping up everywhere, and $0.67 UNDER budget!
This week was all about Spain: Barcelona and Madrid specifically. We loved Barcelona for its art and architecture and it’s seaside location. A 3 hour train ride to the interior to the capital of Spain, Madrid was the perfect counterbalance as a center of history and culture. Barcelona was temperate and humid, where Madrid was dry and chilly. Barcelona was all hustle and bustle while Madrid was more stately with better food. Both cities were beautiful and made more interesting because of friends who met us on the way.
We kind of got stuck in a “Gaudi loop” while we were in Barcelona because of the amazing architectural style pioneered by the early 20th century architect Antoni Gaudi. Even a walk to breakfast included a swing by a couple of houses Gaudi designed in the heart of the city.
Marla’s ears were chilly in Madrid so she ended up buying a Real Madrid stocking cap on the advice of our friend Maria. This makes the 2nd time Marla has needed a hat and Maria has helped her find one. (The first time was in Washington D.C..). Maybe the next time Marla needs a hat Maria will be there to help out in.……Thailand or NovaScotia or Tanzania or……..? Time will tell.
We finished the week on our last inter-European flight from Madrid to Lisbon Portugal. We’re hoping for Fado music, lots of seafood and a Port wine tasting at the very least. Honestly, Marla is hoping for a funicular (Elevador) ride since she hasn’t gotten to do one in Europe yet. (See the movie Grand Budapest Hotel for the reason for her funicular fascination),
We’re seeing all our friends performing their Christmas concerts and making plans for the holidays on social media. Break a leg ~ we are sorry to miss your performances but know you will be great! Next week, after Lisbon, we travel back to the States for some non-travel family related time. Until then, bring on the Port!
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