Spain 2015: Arrivederci-Au Revior-Adios-A Reveure

I was out the door by 7:00am. I wanted to see the Gothic Quarter without all the tourists. It worked - was just me and a few locals walking their dogs through the winding streets. Of course, I had to go back to visit my favorite street just behind the Barcelona Cathedral.




















The next stop was along Passage de Gracia to see two more Gaudi creations. The first came into view just as the sun was breaking over the tall buildings. Known as La Pedera, this reminded me of something Dr. Seuss might have concocted. I imagine that the curious beings on the roof are chimney covers. I especially like the tangled wrought iron balconies. Walking down the boulevard is like thumbing through the pages of a high end fashion magazine...starting with Gucci, Prada and Furla and ending with Timberland and Levis.

Not too many streets away is another of Gaudi's residential buildings, Casa Batllo. The balconies on this building look more like skulls and the roof like the spine of a dragon. I loved the intricate tile work covering the facade, especially the pastel colors he used. I was left with a few hours before transferring to my hotel near the airport, so I walked back up to the La Sagrada Familia. I didn't really have any photos of the entire structure in my earlier post since it was covered in scaffolding. But I realized it that the sheer size of the building is just as amazing as the architecture itself. The church has been under construction since 1892 and isn't expected to be completed until 2030. Incredible.

So, I finally say goodbye to Barcelona (by the Arch of Triumph near my hotel) and to Europe. It has been an amazing 2 weeks, but I am ready to sleep in my own bed and to wear something else for a change! The hotel I am staying at is another nice one - I am glad I brought my swimming suit. I had the pool and sauna all to myself. It is amazing what $20 more will get you in a hotel. Next time, I am finally giving up on the budget options. I am getting too old for that!

Time to start planning (and saving for) my next adventure...Scotland - Iceland - The Greek Isles or maybe back to Scandinavia?