Almost forgot to tell you...

I did the segway tour and everyone made it out alive!!!  Hooned around Barcolonetta and the beach district at the top speed of 15-20km p/hr . Even navigated the narrow laneways of the Gothic Quarter.  I soooooo want one now. At about 7500 Euros plus shipping, I am happy to accept donations or work on a glide-share scheme.  This was a fantastic way to see a lot of the city quickly and get my bearings. Plus its like being Buck (or Becky) Rogers in the 21st Century -- apologies to all my Gen-Yer's, you'll just have to google it xxx B

Adios Espana!

Barcelona has been jam packed, yesterday I visited the glorious mountain monastery of Montserrat, braving the front window seat of the ariel car down the cliff-side (note to self,  never bungy jump). Caught a glimpse of the black Madonna and walked the pilgrim trail of devotional carved out shrines.  Last night it was a Flamenco performance at the breathtaking monument to Art Noveau, the Palau de la Musica then today was spent at the seriously quirky Federic Mares Museum. Mr Mares clearly had issues with obsession-compulsive behaviour, and presents the most eclectic but comprehensive collection of art, antiquities and objects of the heart that you can imagines.  My favorite was his array of antique tarot cards!  Spent hours comparing the differences between same subject devotional carvings... suprisingly moving. There is so much to see and do in Barcelona, and just as I am finally navigating the alleys of the Gothic Quarter with ease its off to Turkey. So its Adios Espana! Cappadocia calling xxxx B

Gotta Love Gaudi

 So here is the mandatory Gaudi tribute blog... 

but you have to love a city that embraced such radical designs... this was the late 1800's after all! There is a wonderful connectivity between Gaudi's key buildings in Barcelona, many of which are visible from the other. Yesterday I did the mountainous trek to Park Guell. I kid you not, these streets make San Francisco look like a salt pan. The architecture was amazing and the park really came to life with Afro-Cuban bands (will try and load some video links).  

Then today was Palace Guell with its famous sloping rooftop and mosaic chimneys.  Formerly a brothel, this building felt incredibly spacious and palatial, even though its only 500msq.  I really enjoyed this space with its attention to detail.  Even the twists in the wrought iron casings at the entrance are made so you can see out but people cant see in, brilliant!. The roof was a little freaky (putting you off balance) but the view to La Familia Sagrida (Gaudi's famous cathedral project, still being built) was impressive. Ultimately Gaudi had a falling out with Guell, his patron and building(s) owner.  The last building he designed for Guell has some interesting features evidencing their acrimony -- including Gaudi's hommage to Guell, which incorporates into the external design a  bird  famous for building nests out of its own poo. Gotta love 19thC building disputes! xx B

Ola Barcelona, the City that Never Sleeps!

Forget the EU recession, Barcelona is bustling -- with shop sales and late night tapas venues full to capacity.  It feels as though this city only comes to life after 10pm, which the long daylight hours make you think is later than it is. Teaming with tourists and locals, the streets are busy with street performers and party-goers. Its hard not to love this place, and despite my shuttle bus detour to Costa Brava (dont ask, but lets just say the 15 minute trip from the airport to downtown took 4 times longer than my flight!!!), I already feel at home. There is so much energy just in the crowds and street markets that its hard to motivate yourself to do the 'serious' tourist stuff (museums, galleries) but eventually the 30 plus heat pushes you indoors.  I have been on walking tour of the old Gothic quarter (where I'm staying) and a Gaudi walking tour (almost obligatory). 

Went to tapas with 2 new American friends which was just a hoot!. Keep mixing up my Spanish with Japanese, so I am completely incomprehensible but people are very kind and I am becoming adept at mime.  Can see why so many people come here and never leave.... now if I could only smuggle Zed in. Will work on it tonight over patatas bravas and paella xxx B

Its a truth universally acknowledged...

 that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife... or is that Wifi?  Getting access to the internet has been a bit tricky in Bath (sorry for the lack of posts) but I assure you I have been busying around the city!. Of course I did the Austen walking tour and visitor's centre (was even filmed by a TV crew in my period apparel). Then it was off to Lacock, where Pride and Prejudice (Meriton) and Harry Potter where filmed. Took happy snaps outside Harry Potter's house and waited for Mr Darcy, but he must have been at the lake.  Great fun and gorgeous countryside. 

The absolute highlight  was Avebury, with its intersecting circles of standing stones and serenity -- no wonder the Druids thought this place magical. Finished with a twilight tour of the Roman baths, you can see why they loved this place.  Off to Barcelona tomorrow for some Spanish sunshine! xxx B

I know real estate is at a premium, but...

In the land of the endless apartment block, combining your backyard with your shoes is a stroke of genius!. Last night went to the Motcomb street party which was a sight to behold -- a veritable army of Anthea's and Poppy's full of silicon and champagne which provided no end of entertainment.  The music was fantastic but there was only so much one could take of Who Wants to Date a Millionaire, so it was off home for some respite. Today it was a historic tour of Kensington, then evensong in Westminister Abbey (sublime). Off to Bath tomorrow, home of the Jane Austen museum, can hardly wait! xx B

'Taking the Waters' in Bath

Yes, like Lady Dalrymple, I have come to take the waters in Bath! Overwhelmingly Georgian, Bath has spectacular architectural uniformity and one of the only operational (Roman) spas in the country. So who could pass up a few hours in the Minerva baths and steam rooms, with breathtaking views over the city from the roof-top pool? I'm really glad I did this. While the spa is packed and modernised, it was wonderful just to relax and soak in the cityscape  Afterwards it was the Bizarre Bath walking tour, run by a professional comedian.  I was laughing so much within the first 10 minutes that tears were streaming down my face!. Big day at Stonehenge, Avebury and the Cotswolds tomorrow xx B