Barceloona Part 2

There are over 1,000 cabs in Barcelona it reminds one of New York City.  All of the cabs look just like this and it is very easy to hail a cab no matter where you are.

Barcelona does an excellent job of maintaining their beautiful historic buildings while at the same time developing new areas in the city to provide the needs of a modern city.  I think this all started with the development of the downtown area for the Barcelona Summer Olympics.

More beautiful window appointments.

I recognize that person.

How's this for a picture of the historic and  modern?

I love the fact that these statues are always full figured women not Barbie doll figures. Nice full thighs, big buns and a little tummy--love it

A monastery we came across.

So many courtyard areas where people just sit around the fountains and relax and chat.

Everywhere you look a work of art!!!!

All of you who know me, know how much I love the way Europe frames their windows.  Is that beautiful or what?

Lots of public areas for taking time for break with a beverage.

Lots of colorful fans, shawls, and scarfs

Just another day in paradise. Above is Gothic style Santa Maria Del Mar.

Detail on large door from church below

That's quit a steeple

The rod iron lamps and balcony rails were beautiful.  Notice the incredible tile work.

See, this is where the neck strain comes it!!!

You look down a side street or little alley and there's another beautiful building to explore.

Look at this building very carefully there is so much detail

There is no way as an American to describe a European city.  There is the history, majesty, and artistry of the buildings that just overwhelms you. Your head is in full motion as you stroll down the streets trying to take it all in. Each building has its own special artistry and so much detail to try to take in.. One cannot with pictures capture the glory of it all.

The sidewalks are bustling with pedestrians, sidewalk shoppes and outdoor cafes and restaurants. There is an electricity in the air and a real sense of life being lived to the fullest. There is always time to stop for a chat and a coffee. We found Barcelona a very laid back city filled with people of all cultures and so alive with activity.

I cannot believe how fast the cars travel through the city but there are plenty of pedestrian walkways so getting around the city is no problem. We've fallen in love with the wide open areas in the city that are pedestrian only. Pedestrians can stroll around without any concern for cars as they shop and just plain try to absorb all the city's beauty.

We got off the tour bus about noon and went into a charming cafe and had a piece or pizza and the most delicious coffee drink I've ever had.

 

There are miles of beautifully maintained beaches and a lot of newly appointed facilities to  accompany them.

Lots and lots of outdoor eating areas