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Spain & Cruise 2024
  • Amy DB
  • Polka Dillow
  • Eo Bodeo
  • Amy DB
  • Polka Dillow
  • Eo Bodeo
  • Sean Beebe
  • Pamela D.

Spain & Cruise 2024

Une aventure de 18 jours par Amy, Polka, Eo et 2 autres En savoir plus
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  • Début du voyage
    1 mai 2024
  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    11

    La Rambla

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 59 °F

    We got in at 9:00 and have a day to fill before we can sleep! Had the nicest driver from the airport and he'll come back to take us to the airport tomorrow.

    We're staying right off of La Rambla. Went for a walk to sightsee and do some shopping at the Marenagnum mall. Willow stocked up on cosmetics. Éowyn sang some CC memory work at the Columbus Monument.

    We were worried about the weather but it's perfect! We were also worried about pickpocketing, but no issues at all by staying aware.

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    Ah, La Rambla! This vibrant boulevard is the beating heart of Barcelona, a lively promenade that teems with tourists and locals alike. From the colorful Mercat de la Boqueria to the evocative street performers, each step down this tree-shaded avenue offers a vivid slice of Catalan culture. Whether you're sampling tapas or browsing the kiosks for souvenirs, La Rambla is an essential Catalan experience, packed with sensory delights and the infectious buzz of city life.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    2

    Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 63 °F

    We saw this church built by the people before, but this time we went in. I'm so glad we did. It's a stunning example of gothic architecture and so peaceful.

    It's so touching that the people that labored on the Barcelona Cathedral would then come at the end of the day and build this as a labor of love.

    Dad was very moved by the disabled man begging on the steps and gave him some money.

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    Santa Maria del Mar stands as a beacon of serene beauty in Barcelona's bustling Ribera district. Built by the people, for the people, in the 14th century, this stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture feels more like a communal achievement than a mere structure. Inside, the soaring columns and magnificent stained glass cast a celestial light, inviting a moment of peaceful reflection amid the city's clamor. It's a place where history whispers through the vaulted ceilings, offering a quiet escape to those wandering through Barcelona's old streets.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1

    Caganer

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 66 °F

    Just...read up.

    I especially found King Tut's golden contribution amusing.

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    The caganer is one of Catalonia’s most peculiar and beloved Christmas traditions, offering a cheeky contrast to the usual reverent holiday decor. Tucked away in the corner of the Nativity scene, this little figurine of a man in the act of defecation adds a touch of humor and earthiness, symbolizing fertility and the cycle of life that nourishes the earth. Originally a Catalan peasant, the caganer has evolved to include figures of celebrities and politicians, ensuring that every visit to a Christmas market in Barcelona comes with a side of laughter and lighthearted irreverence.En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1

    Cathedral of Santa Eulalia

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 70 °F

    A little bummed that the antiques market in this plaza is gone now. Still a beautiful church!

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    The Barcelona Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a masterpiece of Gothic splendor at the heart of the city's Gothic Quarter. Its imposing facade and soaring spires command attention, while inside, the grandiose nave leads you to intricately carved side chapels, each a testament to divine artistry and devotion. The cloister, with its serene garden and fountain, is home to a flock of white geese, adding a unique, peaceful charm. This cathedral not only serves as a place of worship but also as a cornerstone of Catalan identity, encapsulating centuries of architectural and spiritual heritage.En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1

    Temple d'August

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 68 °F

    This is the highest point and one of the oldest points in Barcelona. It gives me chills to actually be able to put my hands on something that Romans were standing on to lecture in the forum at the time of Christ.

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    Tucked away in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, the Temple of Augustus is a hidden gem that offers a direct link to the city's ancient Roman past. Standing tall with four majestic columns preserved from the larger temple complex, this remarkable site whispers stories of the city's beginnings as the Roman colony of Barcino. A visit here is like stepping through a portal in time, surrounded by the narrow medieval streets that contrast sharply with the temple’s classical grandeur. It's a place that provides a quiet respite from the modern city and a fascinating glimpse into Barcelona’s rich, layered history.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1
    1

    Mercat de Sant Josep - La Boqueria

    2 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 66 °F

    It was sooooo crowded at dinner that we ended up just shoving through crowds, but I love the hustle and bustle of this place. Had some fresh juice, street tacos, salmon roll, gelato, and empanadas.

    Willow spent way too much on candy.

    Mom had a scammer put bracelets on her, and the policia got involved immediately. They told her they were free gifts now lol.

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    La Boqueria is Barcelona's culinary crown jewel, a bustling market that bursts with the fresh, vibrant flavors of Catalonia. As you wander through its busy aisles, you're greeted by a dazzling array of colors and aromas: from succulent fruits and vegetables to freshly caught seafood and a variety of local cheeses and charcuterie. Every stall tells a story of tradition and gastronomic passion. Sampling tapas at a crowded bar or sipping on a freshly made juice, La Boqueria is not just a place to shop—it's an immersive experience that encapsulates the spirit of Barcelona itself.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024

    Embarkation on the MSC World Europa

    3 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☀️ 55 °F

    Embarkation was so simple! One of the bonuses of a European itinterary on MSC is that people embark and disembark at nearly every port - the ship just makes a perpetual circuit (Malta being an exception on our itinerary). This prevents the normal crush.

    We sat down to dinner just as we left port. Mom and Willow got a little seasick from the perspective going past the long dock to get out of the harbor but it cleared up quickly.

    —--

    The MSC World Europa stands as a towering achievement in contemporary cruise ship design, stretching impressively over 333 meters in length and boasting the capacity to accommodate nearly 6,762 passengers. As one of the largest cruise ships afloat, it pushes the boundaries of maritime innovation with its eco-conscious LNG propulsion system, minimizing its environmental footprint. The ship’s vast scale is matched by its rich array of amenities, including multiple gourmet dining venues, expansive leisure facilities, and a sprawling promenade. This floating metropolis not only offers a luxurious escape but also reflects a forward-thinking approach to sustainable travel on the high seas.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024

    Dinners in the Main Dining Room

    3 mai 2024, Espagne ⋅ ☁️ 66 °F

    You are assigned a time and table to eat in the main dining room included in the base fare. Each night, you have the same waiter who gets to know your preferences. For example, they are bringing Dad the right type of glass for his hook each night without being asking. You have a rotating set of options to choose from for a starter, main, and dessert.

    Our watier, Gusti, brought everyone to sing Happy Birthday to Willow for her 16th. She loved it so much. SO SO MUCH.

    He is also making Éowyn a new origami animal each night. She made one back for him too.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1

    Exploring the MSC World Europa

    3 mai 2024, Iberian Sea ⋅ 🌬 63 °F

    This ship is HUGE. Very stable, and the Mediterranean is so smooth right now. If you are prone to seasickness, try a megaship! The Promenade in the center of the ship is so fun - like a little city street!

    The girls and I hung out late in to the night since our clocks are off a bit. Bumper cars at 10pm were a hit. They also convert this into a roller skating rink sometimes so I’ll need to check that out.

    There were characters on the Promedade, including a Navi and Morticia Addams. I made Willow pose with her and told them both "don't smile."

    Éowyn found a hat that she’s now wearing non-stop, and everyone is calling her Capitana now. She basically has the run of the ship and knows it better than we do.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    2

    MSC Photos - Éowyn's Stitch Dress

    3 mai 2024, Iberian Sea ⋅ ☁️ 61 °F

    This was Éowyn's end of school year present and she was excited to bring it. They got such cute pictures of her.

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024

    Ancient Greek City Center

    4 mai 2024, France ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    Marseilles is one of the oldest settlements in France. There are ruins left at what used to be the shore, but the city has been built out since then. The natural harbor (protected from the wind) made this area extremely valuable, as it's right on the Mediterranean.

    Éowyn spotted a cat, can you?

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    The ancient Greek center of Marseille, known as Massalia, is a fascinating historical site that dates back to around 600 BCE when it was founded by Greek mariners from Phocaea. This ancient trading post quickly flourished into a vibrant hub of commerce and culture on the Mediterranean coast. Today, the remnants of this ancient city can still be explored in Marseille's old quarter, where archaeological finds, including remnants of walls, pottery, and tools, offer a glimpse into its storied past. Visiting this area allows one to walk through layers of history, where Greek, Roman, and later French influences weave together, capturing the essence of Mediterranean antiquity in one of France's oldest cities.    En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024

    Cathédrale La Major

    4 mai 2024, France ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    This cathedral was stunning. So much that it can be seen from the sea. The mosaic floor is completely hand cut and took over 8 years to create.

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    Cathedral La Major, formally known as Marseille Cathedral, stands as a monumental beacon of neo-Byzantine architecture in the bustling port city of Marseille. Dominating the skyline near the seafront, this cathedral, completed in the 1890s, is famed for its grand scale and ornate design, featuring domes and multi-colored stone façades that reflect the city's rich maritime history and cultural diversity. Inside, the vast nave is adorned with intricate mosaics and marble, creating a visually stunning space that invites contemplation and awe. This majestic cathedral not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Marseille's historical and architectural heritage, bridging the past with the present in spectacular fashion.En savoir plus

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  • Spain & Cruise 2024
    1

    A little bit more of Marseilles, France

    4 mai 2024, France ⋅ ☁️ 66 °F

    The old forts just reopened, and we saw churches that were over 1000 years old!

    Our tour guide also filled us in on what to look for if we wanted to buy the famous soap - it should be green as it's 72% olive oil, have no added fragrance, and in be in a cube rather than a bar.

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    Marseille, once known for its gritty port and vibrant street life, has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks in part to its designation as the European Capital of Culture in 2013. This prestigious title sparked a city-wide rehabilitation, breathing new life into its urban fabric. Key projects revitalized historic sites and neglected neighborhoods, integrating modern architectural designs while preserving the soul of Marseille. The waterfront area, particularly around the Old Port, has seen significant enhancements, becoming a focal point for both locals and tourists. Cultural institutions, like the striking Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), now stand as symbols of the city's resurgence. This dynamic blend of old and new not only boosted Marseille's economic profile but also repositioned it as a beacon of cultural innovation in the heart of the Mediterranean.    En savoir plus

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