September 18th, 2017
Our ship the MS Riveria docked early in Port along with thousands of other passengers from the Queen Victoria.
We disembarked, taxied back to the “Hotel Curious” for another day and night in the city of Barcelona.
Our room was ready so we checked in, dropped off our bags and headed out with “curiosity” to explore more of the city.
Since we didn’t have much time we decided to view as much as possible by riding the double decker bus. Our first seats were on the lower level and then we finally were able to get a couple on the open top deck ... and of course then rain came. All of a sudden an automatic tarp came rolling over our heads to provide some protection from the downpour.
We had an up close and personal view of the vibrant city of Barcelona.
At times so close you could feel and touch the leaves and branches of the passing by trees.
We hopped off the bus at the famous La Sagrada Familia.
Through my research I have discovered that the foundation stone was laid on March 19, 1882 with construction commencing under the design of architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano. Due to some disagreements Lozano resigned and the commission was given to Antoni Gaudi.
It is a magnificent structure, piece of art ... that continues to be built as money is available.
We did not tour the inside as we were only in the city for today and there were many 1000’s of people with the same idea of visiting this site today!
I captured some up close in your face photos from our seats on the bus before we got off to check out from street level ... all I could think of was the Vanadian TV show of my childhood “The Friendly Giant” ... the intro “look up, waaaaay up”!
W
Cranes amongst the beauty of the structure ...
After a coffee, stroll and some picture taking we were back on the bus ...there is just so much to see and do in Barcelona!
Once back in our neighbourhood Las Ramblas(1.2 km plane tree-lined pedestrian mall) for a light lunch and touring. The boulevard is lined with beautiful flower markets, tourist trap shops, cafes, restaurants and of course many, many people!
We even saw this look alike Marilyn Monroe from her window at the Erotic Museum several times as we strolled the boulevard ...
Here she caught Señor Honey’s eye and threw him a kiss!
Tired of walking Monsieur Honey, we can grab a bike!
Loved the architecture on this building ... looks like it’s decorated with umbrellas!
Tonight we met up with new friends (Kathy & Steve) for cocktails and then dinner in the popular square “Place Real” (translates to Royal Plaza) in the Gothic Quarter.
It was a perfect way to spend our last evening in Barcelona.
Here Señor Honey was introduced to Aperol spritzers ...
Not sure we needed the complimentary liqueurs ...
After a delicious dinner with great company, a delicious wine, we said our “goodbyes” to our friends until the next time we meet!
Tomorrow we catch the train to France.
We are still curious about what all Barcelona has to offer and will definitely have to return for a longer stay!
P.S. I later learned that we should have tried these treats, KRONUTS from the shop next door to the Hotel ... how did my sweet tooth miss these?.
Señor Honey kept saying “No, no, no!”every time we walked by.
