“Yo me voy pa España” in Barcelona
We started out the day nice and early as we had a day of sightseeing ahead. The day started as most great days do—with breakfast. Unfortunately, Himee, who had to work on her research paper, could not join us. We sent her our love and wished her the best as she would miss out on some of the activities.
After breakfast, we set out on a steady march to Montjuïc Castle, which was a wonder. One could not help but appreciate the view of the city when looking on from the high hill that is Montjuïc itself.
We moved on through beautiful greenery to the Estación Olympiad, where more views were enjoyed, and we all got to take a photo with the Barcelona Football logo. What followed was a spirited proclamation by some of the members: “Madrid all the way!” I was quite anxious as I wondered whether it was wise to pledge such allegiance to this host city’s rival, but alas, nothing happened to us. My knowledge of football is… limited, but I enjoyed seeing the stadium where they play at currently.
We then proceeded to walk in the direction of the Sagrada de Familia, but when one of our members developed a nasty rash and another found herself struggling to keep up, we decided to make a detour home so that they could be excused from the day’s activities. After that, four of us got ready to embark on the journey through Barcelona. With our trusty tour guide—Señor Mario—and our bodyguard/German Shepherd—Señora Cristina—we were prepared for all the wild things that the stunning jungle of Barcelona had to offer.
Along the way, we had the opportunity to visit some shops and take in the city life. We even got to see the famous Casa Batlló. This was accompanied by constant vigilance of traffic and the dodging of suspiciously colored puddles as well as the smells. I do not think I have ever experienced the sensation of that many smells all at once—some bad (admittedly), but so many good. It was crazy in the best way.
When we reached the Sagrada de Familia, I was stunned. What a building! And the fact that they are still building it blew my mind. The design was quite unique and unlike any other cathedral I have ever seen. It was so far removed from my previous experiences that for a hot minute I questioned whether I wasn’t in a fantasy novel. Unfortunately, we could not enter the cathedral, but given the throngs of tourists waiting outside, I think that was for the best.
We had to pick up our pace as we had to make it in time for lunch, and boy, did my feet and legs hurt. I think that the day was a true reminder of how much I need to get back in the gym, because I was feeling that burn. But you can’t have a trip to Europe without at least one day of relentless walking. I saw it as the authentic experience.
We stopped by the Spanish Arc de Triomf and got to hear a bit of the history behind it. We passed through a few plazas and got to experience some of the Gothic architecture in the Gothic Quarter, which was quite nice. We passed by a place called Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. We were told that this place was known for its tragic history as during the Spanish Civil War, local clergymen were murdered there. However, when we got there, all we could find were a bunch of little children running around and playing. It was only afterwards that I realised how significant this was. A place that was once inhabited by pain and tragedy was now filled with innocence and joy. Interesting how life works, isn’t it?
At the end of the tour, we all went out to eat some Chinese food. I enjoyed it and was very happy by the end of the meal. Afterwards, we got to rest a bit. I spent my time at the print shop as I had some important documents to print. That evening we went to the house of one of Señor Mario’s students, who has supported our project greatly. We got to meet him and some of his acquaintances and have a nice visit. Around 11pm we bought pizzas as some of the girls were still hungry and went back to the flat where we stayed. Soon it was “lights out” and we got ready for the next day. Madrid, here we come!
By Jana, #Yo Me Voy Pa’ España member
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