 | Like a magnet, Las Ramblas called us back. The whole place was alive with tourists and locals taking in the atmosphere, the street artists, and general vitality of the area. |
 | Returning to the market we forced our way through the throng marvelling at the colours, the displays and the smells. We had tried tapas several times in the previous 72 hours - but obviously missed this Orgasmic Tapas! Mid-morning did not seem an appropriate moment to give it a try it. After all we don't want a "When Foxy met Silver" moment in the middle of the market |
 | Leaving the market, the buildings continued to amaze. This little corner shop was intricately decorated in subtly mosaics. |
 | It had been a few minutes since we last stoppoed for a break, so the intrepid foursome paused at a street cafe and sat to watch the world go by. GF thought it was time to reveal our travelling companions, Betty and Barney Rubble, so asked them to pose for this photo. |
 | Plunging back into the side streets we zigged and zagged through the old quarter. |
 | Every now and again the passages and alleys would open up into pleasant squares. Some were alive with cafes and people milling about, others (such as Paca Reial) were quiet and tranquil. |
 | Again we passed various sections of the old Roman wall before stopping for lunch. After lunch we headed back to the hotel, stopping here and there to pick up souvenirs. |
In no time the short break was over. (Which is why they call it a short break). It had been an absolute pleasure. Barcelona is a charming city, with wide open boulevards, and narrow intricate passageways. With plain tenements and extraordinary Gothic and Moorish architecture. It buzzes with life, but never intrudes. It may not have the natural beauty of Cape Town, or the majesty of volcanic Edinburgh, but it has an overall package that is compelling.
[File under: Travel, Barcelona]
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