Before catching the train to Barcelona - the land of Gaudi - I walked down to see the Roman temple "Maison Carree" in the heart of Nimes, France. The town was still asleep on this Sunday morning, so I had the place to myself. I also took a closer look at the statues on the fountain in the main square - beautiful.
Now to Spain. I had the entire TVG train car to myself so I moved around from side to side to see France turn into Spain. It looked like flamingos were even wading in the marshy waters.
I arrived at the main train station - Barcelona Sants - bought my 2 day transport pass and hopped on the metro. I decided to move up my price range to $70 a night and I really lucked out. The Hotel Catalonia is located in the Born district just a few steps away from the Arc de Triomf. I wanted to jump right into the huge tub as soon as I arrived, but I decided to stick to the plan and go to see the Gaudi Cathedral - Sagrada Familia.
It is an imposing, almost liquid structure whose towers look like they are dripping candle wax. I paid the almost 20 euro for the entrance fee and a trip up the towers. There is an elevator that takes you to the top of one of the towers. I was able to walk out onto the front of the tower to take some photos of the city and then spent most of the reminder of the time walking down an extremely narrow spiral staircase. Occasionally, I got glimpses of the city as I descended, but mainly I was just thinking about how my ankles were aching, at least my knees were in good shape! 
Once inside the church, I sat in the prayer section in the middle and tried to find some Sunday calm. It was difficult with the Korean tour guide pointing out every nook and cranny to his group, rather loudly. I have been inside many different churches throughout Europe and have never encountered anything like this one. It was a lot to take in - from the tree-like columns branching heavenward to the kaleidoscope stained glass windows. An hour and a half later, I finally dragged myself back to my hotel. I am in for a very good nights sleep tonight!
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