Friday, October 19, 2012

Bits of Barcelona




It is so nice to get away from all the politics of home.  I will be very disappointed if Obama loses.  Barcelona is a fascinating city, there is so much to do and see, it's a matter of picking and choosing, somewhat randomly.  It rained most of the day but we managed to see Gaudi's absolutely fascinating Cathedral as well as Barcelona Cathedral.  Such a fascinating architectural contrast.  We have many more things to see, but we are taking it all in stride, moving slowly and not rushing anything.  I've arranged a 90 minute massage tomorrow afternoon after a full morning of touring.  We rented a lovely 3 bedroom apartment right next to the old town (Gothic), in Eixample.  Very nice and comfortable and spacious, and we can prepare our own food when we want.  Neighborhood food markets, bakeries, fruit and vegetable stalls, and cafes are in abundance.  Taxi fare is reasonable, and they are easy to find.  The city seems very alive and vibrant.  There are a couple of Iyengar Studios here I hope to visit.  After six nights here we fly to Dubrovnik via Vienna to an apartment we've rented in the Old Towne.  Then we cruise the Mediterranean, revisiting Seville and Lisbon, and seeing Madeira for the first time.  Afterwards, a transatlantic crossing.  All in all in a longer trip than usual for us, but leisurely and slow paced.  Nicole Rodriguez is taking care of the house and the cats.  I already miss my cats but get regular updates.  Off to bed!