Just cruising along

Barcelona

From Dublin, we took Ryanair and made our way to the city of Barcelona.  The weather in September was wonderful.  It was sunny but mostly cool due to the winds.  Everyone was out and about and we spent many hours walking down the streets of La Rambla just soaking in the sun.  We were fascinated by the historical architecture of the buildings and side streets of Barcelona.  Armed with the Eyewitness Travel Top 10 Barcelona travel book, we made our way to the many attractions with ease.  The highlight of the trip was visiting the Sagrada Familia - we were just speechless and in awe of Gaudi's work and the sculptors and architects before and after his death.  We plan to visit it again in 2026 where it is estimated to be completed, the 100th anniversary of his death.

Dublin

We had a wonderful time in Dublin and wished we had stayed longer.  The weather was about 17c and the light rain didn't deter us from taking leisurely walks and visiting the city.  We spent our days in Dalkey, Sandycove, Wicklow, Glendalouge.  In the city, we took the city bus and got off at Trinity College where we learned about the Book of Kells.  I liked the Forty Foot in Sandycove, much like an outdoor swimming area which is part of the sea.  Freezingly cold but many people in the water! We also ate at the Magpie Inn at Dalkey and dropped by Finnegan's pub.  On the another day we spent our time at the Hodges and Figgins bookstore.  The Irish are one of the loveliest people we have met on our travels.