Estoy Aqui!

A day full of trains and I made it finally to Spain! No train strikes *hold your breath until I get out of here* and I made all the right connections, even jumping on an earlier train at the last station to get here as soon as I could.

Another gaudi building

Some might think that a day full of trains would be punishment, but for me it's all part of the experience. You get to see so much more of the land by train, and come in contact with people you never would. I left Tours, France this morning and hopped on train after train. When I realized I would be taking trains across Europe I was worried that like last time, they would put me right to sleep. It was ok last time because I was with someone that could wake me up, but this time I have to rely on my watch alarm. So far I really haven't fallen asleep though because I'm just soaking in the environment. For part of the train I was in a compartment with 7 french kids. It was weird that kids were talking and I couldn't understand a word of what they said. They acted like kids act though.

Barcelona

Throughout the day I saw fields and mountains, and all of the sudden this HUGE castle, and then another castle later on. Then from Narbonne to Port Bea, the most beautiful coastline I've seen. It reminded me of the French Riveiera, but I have a feeling this is less touristed. I bet it's a lot like teh Cinque Terra because there were little towns on hills at each of the train stations. When I got to Poirt Bea, I was supposed to have to wait an hour for the train to Barcelona, but noticed another train and it was supposed to get in 45 minutes earlier. I took a chance and took it, and I think the difference was this was a regional train. I was the only one on it was a large bag, everyone else was hopping on an off. I was actually a relief to start hearing a language I can partially understand , if only they would slow down! I'm actually amazed how much I've retained in 12 years, Ms. Milenski would be proud! One problem though is that I keep switching back and forth to other languages. After I got directions to the hostel I said, Merci. I'm just all confused!

Building by gaudi

I've been impressed by how clean things have been, the streets and the metro. Maybe that impression will change when I go out to see the city tomorrow. The hostel is alright, outside of the main street in the city and seems pretty quiet, but the night is early.

Two nights here than the night train to Nice, but I'm thinking of taking a train directly to La Spieza for the Cinque Terra for a few nights, then to Sorrento for the Amalfi Coast (Capri, Amalfi) and maybe Pompeii. Then to Sicily (Christina I can't wait for my mini vacation inside my vacation!!)

Ceiling in one of the rooms

Dali Musuem

Dali Painting

Gaudi cathedral

Gaudi Park

Inside the Museum

Outside of Salvaor Dali Museum