Best Of Spain, 03.20–04.02: Anyone?

I climb on my planes in about ten days.

Exciting! It will be nice to get some sunshine and maybe away from the wintry temps! Well, at least it's been wintry here in the Panhandle although holy cow! Just looked at your forecast and you'll be in the 50's next week while we are still languishing in the 40's. Enjoy your tour!

17-18: Paris airport was about two miles of walking and a tram ride; 1:40 was not uncomfortable but if we’d made a wrong turn in the labyrinth we’d have been screwed. Great weather in Barcelona. Walked about three more km than necessary today because we just could not get oriented. Great food. Attended the evening show at La Pedrera, Casa Mila, and, while pleasant, was not worth the effort. If you’re seeing the Gaudi palaces, go in the day.

We meet up with the rest of the RS gang on Monday.

So excited for you! Have a great trip.

Sunday in Spain and things are CLOSED. Public sites and museums close early. Plan ahead. Stunning weather! The old Barcelona city center is chock FULL of tourists and Barcelona marathon ran today. Among other targets, we negotiated the twisty alleys to find the Augustus Temple Columns and the unicorn gargoyle. Cool old stuff. The columns are beyond old. We are staying at H10 Cubik, pleasant and unique interior space, centrally located. Based on our experience, I can recommend the H10 chain.

On the Renfre to Madrid with great group of RS regulars. Rick’s advice not to eat in tapas bars that have pictures of their food is valid. It’s convenient but implies a focus on tourists not locals. Otherwise, fabulous food & weather.

Sounds like a wonderful trip! I love Spain!

Madrid is big and lovely. millions of folks going everywhere all the time. Hotel Europa on Puerta del Sol, easy walking to the major attractions. Security is enforced at museums and palaces. The problem with RS-recommended eateries and bars is they’re on everyone’s list and crammed. Hundreds of equally excellent alternatives. Group is off to Segovia today.

Spain is unusually warm this year, 55-75F in Segovia and Granada. Alhambra was terrific. RS provided an excellent guide for us; all the local talent has been great.

Back in Madrid for some leisurely museum browsing and Titiro, Easter Sunday. Weirdly hot in Sevilla last two days. Said goodbye to everyone and hopped on the train to Madrid this AM. Flying home Tuesday. Great trip, great group, excellent RS systems. But REALLY looking forward to my own bed and my cat.