Chapter 9: El Clásico

For those who don’t have time to read…

Please enjoy “Dance Through Iberia”

17-5-24 Barcelona:

After a chilly and damp morning in Santiago de Compostela, we were relieved to trade the dreary weather for Barcelona’s milder climate, despite our flight being delayed an hour. Upon landing, we spent the day tackling some necessary chores—laundry and a bit of shopping, sprinkled with a much-needed cookie break. Our evening highlight was a delightful tapas dinner, which more than made up for the mundane transit. Nicky’s favorite part of the day was the delicious dinner and being in Barcelona, while Ben appreciated escaping Santiago’s cold.

18-5-24 Barcelona:

Feeling a bit under the weather, we started our day in Barcelona with breakfast and tickets to Park Güell. Despite the morning drizzle, we enjoyed exploring Gaudí’s colorful creations. A lunch break was followed by a much-needed siesta to rest Ben’s knee and Nicky’s sore throat. In the afternoon, we wandered down Las Ramblas, navigated the vibrant food markets, and embarked on a mission to find Ben a shaver, which remains elusive. Our evening was crowned with an unforgettable izakaya dinner, a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Japanese flavors, featuring a mind-blowing char-grilled chocolate mochi with olive oil ice cream. Even with the rain and minor ailments, it was a day well spent in a city that never ceases to charm.

19-5-24 Barcelona:

Today in Barcelona, we started with a hearty breakfast of eggs before diving into the world of Picasso at his museum. It was fascinating to see his early works and understand his deep connection to the city. Afterward, we took it easy in a park, giving Ben's knee a break, then enjoyed a traditional siesta. The afternoon took us to the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, where Nicky geeked out over the intricate details of Gaudí’s designs, while Ben counted the 400 steps down a spiral staircase—an unplanned knee workout. We ended the day with a delectable Italian dinner, discussing the absurd number of sketches Picasso must have done in his lifetime. Nicky’s sore throat and Ben’s knee provided some comedic relief as we hobbled our way back to the hotel.

20-5-24 Barcelona:

Today in Barcelona, we started with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café, thanks to Nicky’s much-needed sleep-in. Our morning mission was successful: Ben finally got a new razor after his old one bit the dust. Following a relaxing break, we explored one of Gaudí’s famous houses, where Nicky eagerly explained the architectural genius behind every curve and corner. Lunch turned into a battlefield with a squadron of persistent pigeons eyeing our chips. In the evening, we stumbled upon a lively town festival near Barceloneta, complete with marching bands on every corner. Dinner by the beach was a delightful surprise, capped off with some delicious paella. Our intended train ride home was thwarted, so we ended up walking back, enjoying the perfect weather and festive atmosphere.

21-5-24 Barcelona:

Our day in Barcelona kicked off with breakfast before diving into an architect's walking tour, led by an American guide brimming with facts and opinions. Nicky reveled in all the architectural insights, especially those about Gaudí, while Ben appreciated the detailed history of the city’s urban planning. A stroll down Las Ramblas led us to the market, where Ben nabbed a chicken nugget, and Nicky savored an oyster and empanada. Amidst our culinary adventures, we tackled a billing mix-up for Ben's new shaver, which thankfully resolved smoothly (a close shave!). The evening featured a not-too-pretentious modern Catalan dinner at Cruix, where we dined on innovative dishes that left us both satisfied and amused.

22-5-24 Madrid:

Today, our adventure took us from Barcelona to Madrid via a high-speed train—Ben insists it took three hours, while Nicky is sure it was two. After checking into our hotel and opting for a room that didn’t double as a sidewalk display, we explored the city. We enjoyed a delicious lunch at an Asian food market, then took a break to let Nicky rest since she’s still under the weather. Our evening included a visit to a charming wine bar, and we managed to snag some much-needed medication for Nicky. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, spending quality time together made the day special, even if Nicky’s sniffles added a dramatic flair.

23-5-24 Madrid:

We started our day with an exceptional café breakfast before meandering over to the Reina Sofia Museum. Our minds were blown by masterpieces like Picasso's Guernica and various Dalí creations—Ben found some pieces too abstract, while Nicky geeked out over every brushstroke. We then strolled to Mercado San Miguel, where cured beef and seafood tapas made our taste buds dance. The afternoon brought a joyful reunion with Ben's old friends, Tom and Andy, who joined us for a lengthy walk, excellent coffee (Nicky's newfound obsession), and rooftop chats. Dinner was filled with laughter, stories, and a bit too much food. Despite some lingering sniffles, it was a day full of art, friends, and fantastic coffee.

24-5-24 Madrid:

Today in Madrid, we kicked off with breakfast and some quality time with Andy and Tom before embarking on a scenic stroll to the expansive El Retiro Park. We marveled at the Crystal Palace, admired the rose garden, and giggled at the antics of turtles in the pond. Lunchtime found us at a cozy bagel spot, after which we sauntered back to the hotel for a much-needed siesta. Our afternoon was spent lounging by the rooftop pool, basking in the sun, and reading. Dinner at a delightful Thai place was followed by a whirlwind visit to Zara's flagship store, which shut its doors on us promptly at ten. We wrapped up the night with decadent ice cream and macarons from El Corte Inglés before ambling back to the hotel. Despite a bit of stomach trouble for Ben, the day was filled with laughter, sunshine, and great company.

25-5-24 Madrid:

Today, we embraced our last full day in Madrid with a whirlwind of activities. Starting with a quick coffee meet-up with Andy and Tom, we ventured to the impressive Royal Palace, where we snapped photos and soaked in the grandeur without getting lost inside. Our morning segued into retail therapy at Zara’s flagship store, a treat that lightened our wallets and lifted our spirits. Lunch was a mixed bag—Ben’s salad shone while Nicky’s tortilla taco left much to be desired. The afternoon saw us ambling through Madrid’s bustling streets, indulging in more shopping and enjoying the lively Saturday vibes. Post-siesta, we reconvened at the rooftop pool for some sun and chat before heading to Mercado de San Miguel for a vibrant dinner. The evening ended sweetly with cookies and churros, despite a brief encounter with some overly enthusiastic Scots. All in all, it was a day filled with laughter, exploration, and a bit of culinary adventure.