Barcelona

La Familia Sagrada cathedral, Gaudi re-design

Man and creatures by Gaudi on Las Ramblas

Gaudi building on Las Ramblas

This was my second visit to Barcelona, and again, I didn't wake up early enough to go inside the Gaudi Cathedral. The outside frippery is one thing (an magical); the inside is supposed to be spectacular. The architect took a Gothic cathedral, removed the light-blocking arches and filled the building with light. You must arrive by 7 am or stand on a line that's in the sweltering sun, patiently waiting behind 200 people. The trouble is, who can wake up so early in a city where you don't eat dinner until 10 pm? Mea culpa. La proxima vez.

The old city in Barcelona is not to be missed. Sure, it's touristy, but it's amazing to walk around the snaking streets that are either blocked to traffic, or not. There are several stores where you can find good prices and Made in Spain goods if you have time to look. Just a few of the specialties include leather, ceramics, and espadrilles. If you want another thrill, I recommend going to the beach and having lunch as you body-watch. You will see every body-type imaginable, mostly Europeans with a penchant for small swimsuits regardless of age. You can also tattoo-watch as it seems everyone in Barcelona is inked. After you've had your fill, you can walk to the sea and get your toes wet, go in up to your knees or totally immerse yourself in the warm green water.

Old City or Ciutat Vela in "Catalan"

I'm saving the best photo for last. As Mariel and I were walking back from a day spent beaching, shopping and endlessly walking, we stumbled upon this specialty store as we were waiting to cross the street. NB: Crossing the street in Barcelona is risky business. When the light turns red for pedestrians, you MUST stop unless you're already in the crosswalk. I could not get the hang of it after navigating New York City streets. Back to cocktails. Unfortunately, we only saw the stock in the window because the store was already closed. I wanted to buy my husband, who thinks he's William Powell to my Myrna Loy, a shaker or two. My husband prefers stirred to shaken by the way. I agree.

And yes, that's Ms. Fatso in front of the window, heavily inflated with tapas, red wine, and other things that are a lot less fun.

Shaken, not stirred