Barcelona is a fascinating city. A visit just to see the mind boggling Sagrada
Familia is reason alone to come. The structure soars skyward with such detail and grandeur that it is really impossible to put into words how small and insignificant one feels standing before it. I am fascinated by a mind that can create something so magnificent. It seethes with creativity and feats of engineering genius. The internal lighting constantly changes as the day progresses creating different intensities, hues, and patterns that are breathtakingly beautiful.

The universe aligned for me my first day in Barcelona. Right after touring the Opera House and discovering that Placido Domingo was in the present Verdi Opera, “Simon Boccanegra”, which has been sold out for months, we (my two friends and I) miraculously ran into a couple with 2 tickets to sell – no hesitation here!! It was meant to be and the evening did not disappoint. Seriously, sometimes I have to pinch myself to be certain I’m not dreaming! I know you are probably wondering how we decided who, out of the three of us, got the tickets. Well, one dear friend graciously declined so I thankfully didn’t need to bust out my kungfoo moves but I was at the ready let me tell ya!

Park Guell was another of Gaudi’s creations that I enjoyed immensely – even on a cloudy cold day. It was a more playful experience than the Sagrada Familia with structures that were more rounded and soft. The engineering feats were just as stunning and the mosaics were delightful. Sunshine would definitely have enhanced the experience – the wind was so cold we left the park in search of warmth sooner than we wanted to.