Dear Barcelona,
You are a lot to handle. Too much for one weekend. From beginning to end and the second end, you were an adventure, and I look forward to continuing our relationship on my next visit soon.
After the eight hour bus to get to your bus station, my friends Leah and Conner, and I began the quest to our hostel. It was quite the trek involving every form of transportation I didn't know existed, but no maps allowed. We walked, took a metro, a bus, a tram up a mountain, and a taxi. An hour later, we arrived at your very own Inout Hostel. Although quaint and adorable, perfect for a hiking weekend in the mountains, this was not the purpose of our stay in your majestic city. This is where I insert my first pronunciation of gratification to you Barcelona. Thank you for introducing me to my first Hostel experience. It was affordable, friendly, clean, and accomodating. The free breakfast and kitchen privileges was wonderful also. Your welcome for my donation of our tubaware and cooked mac'n'cheese and chicken that I left in the fridge. I hope you enjoyed it, Barcelona.
The next day we ventured to a more centrally located part of the city. Some friends who live in one of your most bustling areas near Plaza de les Glories, hosted us the next day. At noon, we woke the apartment up with our doorbell, and were greeted by a familiar face who looked very surprised to see us. The reaction: long pause and look of confusion, followed by "Paige? Oh, I thought we were getting evicted." Excellent, we were in the right place.
Leah and I set our bags down and decided to explore more of what you have to offer, Barca. I think we're familiar enough now with each other where nicknames are acceptable, yes? Excellent. We started with the must-see Sagrada Familia. This Gaudi cathedral is unlike any cathedral I've ever seen. I would describe it as a modern twist on Gothic architecture. Resembling other classic cathedrals, yours is an artistic display proving that classic is not the equivalent of traditional. Your take is inspired and full of life. The structures and features, if I were to describe them would sound like any ordinary place of worship, but I applaud you once again, Barca. You put a remarkable twist on an assumed piece of architecture and beauty.
Following this endeavor, we moved farther out from the center to see Park Guell. Also designed by Gaudi, this area of your city had a Dr. Seuss feel. This Whoville-esque realm was just missing a few lovable characters. Had I seen Horton, a lorax, or a red and blue fish, I would have been altogether convinced. We took escalators to the top and enjoyed a nice view of your city overlooking the beach. In addition, we enjoyed a walk by a Didgeridoo-player. If anyone was wondering, playing the Didgeridoo reduces snoring and sleep apnea. I would expect, however, that it would only increase sleep apnea to those close by.
At this juncture in time, we needed to head back to meet everyone for the evening's festivities. We all helped make a pasta and salad for dinner, and soon it was time.
Barca oh Barca, you introduced me to something else wonderful also: my first all-nighter. The concert we attended is called Sensation White, which is generally speaking a rave that lasts from 10pm till 5am, featuring six different DJ's, and all attendees wear white. What a night, what a night. You hosted by far the most incredible show I have ever seen. From glowing orbs bouncing from the ceiling, to shieks in the air twirling glowsticks, to a rotating stage as a petal inside several other petals resembling a flower in the middle of the dancefloor, to a giant ring of water drops in the middle of everything, lighting up to depict images and messages, to lasers and fire bursting at random moments, I was in constant awe. That's without even mentioning the music, which complimented the atmosphere impeccably. This music was the only music that I could dance to for seven hours straight without tiring. Well, maybe tiring a little, but powering through. So thanks for everything concerning this night- I will always remember it, and measure every show in the future to this one.
Exhaustion draped over the apartment, unquestionably. All nine residents and guests that evening hibernated the next day. I apologize for forfeiting my tourist dedication this day; I was weak; please forgive me, my dearest Barca. I will make it up to you, however, when I return to discover all the wonders out on which I missed. You are a place that can be called a city of tourism, art, and integrity. So I raise my glass to you, Barca my love; I can only say wonderful things.
Sincerely,
Me
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