And is there honey still for tea?

By some unfortunate circumstances, we were back. All four of us at once, something that is extremely uncommon. My dad, my mum, my sister and me. We met in the airport at London, Heathrow. I almost felt like I had never left.

South Carolina to London is the longest flight I have ever been on. To put it plainly, it was exhausting. Especially because I stepped off of a plane directly into a car headed for a tourist destination: Windsor Castle.

Windsor Castle is the Queen's "favourite house," if by house you can possibly mean some place so large. It is beautiful, and it is filled with so many wonders. My favourite, the dollhouse. My dad must know me pretty well, as he dragged the rest of our family through this section just so I could see it. It was exquisite. A miniture picture perfect world.

The night was spent in a beautiful english country house gone hotel. It was traditionally furnished, and it is said that Queen Elizabeth left it to her lover.

The next day we headed to Bath. This is a historically roman town tucked in the corner of England. The Roman Baths after which the town is named are in unbelievably good shape.

Despite the circumstance, it was good to have a little of home back for such a short time.
It was even better to have the huge family dinner that closed the weekends events.



There is always a silver lining to every dark cloud.

American Summer

America was such a strange concept while I was in Barcelona, it seemed so out of reach.
I thought returning would be different, uncomfortable, but it's funny how quickly something you knew becomes your everyday norm.

On my return i was exhausted; i was also tyring to crush my desire to be back in Barcelona, i was missing everything about the city. I knew i couldn't sit still for too long - though it was good be back with my friends, with my family. First on my agenda was Boston. My sister has visited me in Barcelona, and she was due a visit from me anyways. I drove the distance with my iPod blaring. Being in a car alone can be a good escape from reality if you need one. Boston was a lot of fun and I stayed longer than planned. Sleepovers, drinks, dinners, say yes to the dress, and rooting for england in the world cup with my sister.

As much fun as I had I needed to get back, work was waiting, and I needed to replenish all the money I had spent on my trip. Build-a-Bear and Charlotte Russe. Both in Crossgates Mall. Walking into the mall was cripling. It is so closed in. Like the outside world doesn't exist. Nothing like the bustling streets of Spain with it's high rise stone buildings and bright bright sky. But this would be where i spent my everyday for the next few months.

New York City was next on my list. It'd been too long since i stared up at the blinding lights of times square. Walking along the Highline - an old railroad track through the rooftops of the city - gives you spectacular views. It was packed with people, wildflowers, and perfect picture oportunities.  Next up was Wicked - the broadway I have been waiting forever to see. My parents and I watched the show based on the two witches of Oz then headed out to a late dinner in the city. Next we stared up into times square, watching ourselves show up on the video billboards. The next day we stood at the Top of the Rock, looking down on central park, looking down on the world. We wandered through the streets and ended at the Met for their roof exhibit 'Big Bamboo'. I've never walked on anything so incredible. Then once more, back to the suburbs of Albany.

I spent a weekend later that summer at Sacandaga Lake at Kelsey's lake-side house. We jet skied the lake, relaxed on the dock, and spent the evening with chocolate martinis in a wooden house. The next day we relaxed on the beach until the rain started, then headed back home again.

The rest of the summer was spent with my grandmother visiting, late nights out with my best friends, and days lounging by pools. All of a sudden summer was gone, and as much as i'd dreaded coming home, i was hesitant to leave.

Next stop, Carolina.

Got on a Plane, from London Heathrow, seems such a shame.. May 26th

"Would you like red or white wine with your dinner ma'am?" - Scratch That - "Coffee or Soda?"

Our flight got transferred to American Airlines thanks to British Airways' strikes. It is a splash of America I just wasn't ready for yet. The accents, the tones of voice, the quality, the service. It all screams everything I was glad to get away from. The UK is behind us, and we are New York bound. I'm Split. I'd love to stay forever, but I really do have so much I need to go back to. I have a whole life there now.

There are 2928 miles left until we land, that's about 6 hours. It's going to be a shock, it already is. But i'm ready for some stability, for my friends and my family, and I do love summer. I've had the most amazing experience - I would do it again in a heartbeat. I don't know when I'll get to travel the world, but i'm already looking forward to it. There is just so much to see. I'm satisfied for now, I couldn't ask for much more. I'm just sorry it all has to come to an end.

Reality, Here I Come.

The Grand Finale - Greece! May 26th

"I didn't expect mountains, or Ikea." My first thoughts as I pulled into the Athens airport.
My dad was awaiting my arrival at the baggage claim. It is so good to have him back.

Athens is packed full of history. The Parthenon & Acropolis stand high above the city - it is unbelievable that they've been around for thousands of years. We saw all Athens had to offer before getting on a ferry & heading to Poros.

Poros is one of the closest greek islands to the main land, and is packed with locals. It is serene and lively all at once. We rented a car and spent a day exploring Mycenae, the oldest ruins i have ever seen! We spent a day on the beach & I went parasailing and loved the feeling of floating above the world - completely out of reach.

In Greece the food is good and cheap, the people are friendly and trusting, and I realize how much of a shame it is that we have come to second guess people so much; wherever we go we are cautious of people, but for the most part people are good.

Greece was unbelievable. It was even better that I got to share it all with my father. I couldn't ask for a better end to the best months of my life.

Bedford - May 22

Sitting on a train to Bedford I wondered what the day would hold for me. My Aunt Lynne would be picking me up from the station & I would be staying at her house for the night. I'd never really seen Bedford, it's a lot larger than I expected. My Aunt Lynne & Uncle Richard are always welcoming, & it's good to see family you rarely see. My grandma was in hospital with a fractured hip, she's quite confused as she has reached her mid-90s. I'd prepared myself for the worst, but what I got was much better. She knew I was some part of her family, and came paired with a friendly smile & some hilarious comments relating to her boyfriend. It's a shame it had to be such a fleeting visit, but I knew it was something i wanted to and needed to do.

If I Could Just Come In I Swear I'll Leave; Won't Take Nothing But a Memory - May 21st

When I was little my mum taught me how to breathe. Although I never wanted to at first, it would calm me down & bring me back to reality & rational thinking. N o s t a l g i a. It has become something I have to breathe through. I simply can't visit it enough for it to be pleasant. I left Arnold to the last day of my two weeks in Nottingham. I don't know if I was avoiding it or simply had no reason to go.

The green double decker bus from town to Gedling Road hasn't changed much in the past 8 years, neither have the fields stretching between our block and school, or the hill we used to rollerblade down, slamming into the wooden fences to slow ourselves down. Walking up the hill I can see the back our my childhood home, the one I was once convinced I would never have to leave. Byrne Court looks just as I left it. I can see Jan through her kitchen window, and wonder if she would remember the little girl she bought homemade butterfly cakes from & sponsored for countless read-a-thons. It's hard looking at the house that holds all your childhood and not being able to have it back. Everything just seems to play throught in my head. All the little snippets of unimportant memories are quite overwhelming. Walking through Arnold was like stepping out of reality and into my old life. Breathing had to bring me back.
There are only a few friends I keep in touch with anymore. Time and distance change things eventually.

Amy and Katy have been in my life since the begining. Seeing their lives is like seeing how my life would have played out. The answer to al my 'what ifs'. I'm quite content with my life as it is, in fact, right now I love everything about my life. But the what ifs get to me sometimes. I can leave Arnold knowing it won't change much, and will still be there for me if I ever want it again.

May 17th

Two weeks in England isn't much considering i spend two years a time away from it. Apart from family who i spent most of my time with, friends met in various pubs and houses, and families visited - i managed to squeeze some culture in as well.

As for nottingham...

I trapsed around the city with Jake, probably one of my oldest friends. Caught sight of the castle, the streets,  and tasted the tea.

I spent an afternoon at the Forest Stadium watching my youngest cousin James play in a tournament, and learning that Nottingham holds more history than i thought when it comes to football clubs.

I got to spend a night out on the town with my cousins. This was a first for me as I've never been of age when i've been home before. Nottingham night life is a vibrant pub and bar scene.

I took a day trip to York. I went with my grandma for the day, and felt as if i was back in the center of Europe. I walked the city walls looking down on the city locked within, I saw the excessive cathedral, wandered through the Shambles - a row of traditional houses that throw you back into the past, and spent a while in the york castle museum.

I went to Alton Towers for the day with Chris, my eldest cousin. We rode in the front seat of every ride. Stuffed our faces with jacket potatoes, and had an overall great day.

I took another day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon, this time alone. I'd never been here before so it was interesting to see Shakespeare's life unfold througout the city. It was full of thatched roofs and had plenty to explore.

It's funny how much i haven't seen in a place i living in for 11 years. But the pub culture, the love of the game, the friendly community - that'll always be the same, & i'm glad.


Come on, England!

May 9th.

England is the same as ever. It has green fields, rows of adjacent houses, and an array of of accents that seem to lose concept of any grammar or tense. This is a place I cherish.


Big noisy family stuffed into one room, eating, arguing, football on the telly. It's something you can't imagine how much you would miss until you have to. The gathering, the insanity, the tough love. "I told you. We're crazier than the Osbournes!" Claire tells her boyfriend. Significant others always get dragged along in our family, because to us, family is inviting; It is impossible to sit quietly in a corner.


I showed up to my Grandma and Uncle Anthony's with my Uncle Kevin, Aunty Mary and Bridget. Claire and John were closely in tow follwed by Uncle Alan, Aunty Teresa, Sophie, James, Chris +1, and finally Adam. Minus my Mum, Dad and Sister, that is the lot. 17 of us in a 5 seat room - That is what I arrived to, & I wouldn't change a second of it.

Places Aren't Always What You Expect.

Scotland has offered me the most beautiful blue skies, and has shown me every shade of green. Darting through the countryside with the top down is refreshing. The world is still here. Get away from all the city noise and all the people, the industries and the places, and it's there. Scotland smells like i remember my childhood smelling. British Countryside. There are signs of spring all around and shadows of mountains in the background. Even the city is shockingly beautiful.

I spent a day wandering Dunblane. A day in Edinburgh seeing the palace, the castle, and walking the Royal Mile. I spent a day in St Andrews seeing the golf course and ruins with Mark which included seeing two oceans in one day! And a day hiking. All of this was accompanied by extremely good food.

Relaxation - nice to see you. Didn't realize just how much i'd been neglecting you. My body was on verge of a breakdown. I've been trying so hard to do and see everything that i forgot to just BREATHE.

Seeing people like Mark and Helen doesn't happen very often. It's one of those circumstances where life gave you someone great - and then took you away from them. But it's one of those circumstances that no matter how much time and distance tests us, nothing will ever change. It's hard to say goodbye to people like that.. The kind of people that you thought you would always be around - until life got in the way. It really makes you appreciate the time you do have.

But maybe life is just proving to you that you're in control. You can always go back. You can be wherever you want to be. You just need to learn how to survive on your own first.

I'm going back right now, back to Nottingham. The place i used to cherish as home, as my childhood. Now i'm wondering what it will be like. Places don't freeze in time just because you're gone.

Country Roads,
     Take Me Home..

I've realized I'm much better at Hello's.

I'm flying over a piercing blue sky with a blanket of quilted clouds as I write this. I keep catching glimpses of land, but I couldn't tell you where I'm flying over.. The sky seems to fade into eternity.

I've never shed so many tears on a plane before, luckily I have the row to myself.

I've spent the last four months of my life finding myself; discovering the world, people, culture; and learning what it's like to really live. I've had the most amazing time - Barcelona simply has so much to offer. I've seen art, history, architecture and the most breath-taking views. I've discovered wonders in places I didn't even know existed.

I fitted myself into the city. I fell in love with its dark alleyways, bustle of people, smoky bars, and simply how the city feels. The friends i've made are irreplaceable. We share something simply unexplainable. Each person brought something that moved the rest of us. You can't possibly erase so many memories. The phrase "nights that turned into mornings, with friends that turned into family" has never seemed so true. It's going to be difficult not to be surrounded by such great people every minute of the day. And i'm really going to miss staying awake through the sunrises... I really just want to say thankyou to all of you that made this city so much harder to leave. You are all incredible.

Everyone says studying abroad changes you, but I don't think you can understand how until you've done it. I'm not even sure I know how to explain it myself.

For one - I'm pro at reading maps. I still have no sense of direction, but give me a map and I can get you anywhere.
I've also learned that I should, atleast try, absolutely anything. Maybe octopus won't agree with me, but mussles are delicious.
I also now know that my body will c-o-m-p-l-e-t-e-l-y shut down if I force it to go five days without sleep. - but it's quite okay to eat dinner at midnight.
I know that i can get by alone, that I can survive anything the world throws at me - but that it's so much better to find the people that won't leave you on your own.
I've learned that some things, -such as volcanoes- I can't do anything about. In times like these it is so important to make the most of your opportunities.
I've learnt to take life day - by - day. To relax, to s.l.o.w.d.o.w.n..
& I've learned that the feeling of home is SUCH a subjective thing.

Sitting here, 4 months later, I know I am different. It will be interesting to live my old life as who I am now.

Barcelona is the fourth place I have lived. The fourth place I have created a home. Each one has been so incredibly different, and taught me so much. I'm about to begin a new adventure, and I know I need to brave my tears and my heartbreak as I leave; I know I'm headed to something else incredible. But This Goodbye Is Simply Pulling All Of My Heartstrings. I just feel like this is all being taken away from me so soon. I found somewhere I fitted, somewhere I felt like myself, somewhere I belonged, and I'm slowly flying away from it..

I've had the time of my life. I have the memories, the friends, and the realizations that go hand-in-hand with the city. I get to keep those. But I won't say goodbye. I'll be back. I couldn't not come back.

So, Hasta Luego Barca,
Thanks for bringing me back to life.

. . .

There's certain things about a place that make it feel like home. Like the old man at the corner shop, who see's you every thursday afternoon, who asks for your story, who hopes for your return. Like finally being able to understand the rapid spanish being shot at you, or not even noticing which language you were speaking in at all. Like knowing your way, becoming comfortable, adjusting...

I Simply Can't Breathe.

City Journal Epilogue. Barcelona Past and Present - Spring 2010.

On January 13th I had my bags packed, my ticket ready, and was saying goodbye to my dad at the airport. As I was sitting waiting for my plane I had a million thoughts going through my head. Was I doing the right thing? What would it be like? Was I really ready for this? I couldn’t breathe for all the nerves I felt.

Barcelona felt something like an extended vacation for me at first. I saw all the amazing sights. I enjoyed a new variety of foods. I met new people. I tried out the language. I stayed up all night. I didn’t feel homesick once. I was in an amazing place, what reason was there to feel homesick? My nerves quickly disappeared and Barcelona became my life, and then, it became my love. One day along the way, my vacation ended. I couldn’t pin point when. Somewhere past the crazy nights out, the futbol games, the parks, the classes and the people. At some point Barcelona began to feel like home.

The sights had become part of my every day. Simply walking to class I couldn’t help but smile at all my beautiful surroundings - at my life. Routine kicked in. Mondays were Loco Lunes at Otto Zutz, Thursdays meant candy at the corner store, and Fridays meant being woken up early by the maids. I found myself frequenting certain places, finding favourites. I became a frequent visitor of Bo de B, and I fell in love with the quiet upstairs scene of El Born. I knew my way around and I knew where to go. But at the same time, the city kept surprising me with further secrets; there were still so many things I hadn’t discovered yet. I had become comfortable, but the city hadn’t become too common or too boring. I was addicted.

Today it is April 27th. My time in Barcelona is coming to an end. With two days of classes left and only 6 days remaining in this fabulous city I have begun to reflect. Barcelona is my city, and Onix is my home. I have created a family and a life here, and I have created memories that I wouldn’t trade for the world. I have opened my eyes to new customs and a new way of life. I have learned more than I could have ever imagined. My experience in Barcelona surpasses the sights and the language and the classes. My experience consists of life-changing friends from across the world, nights that ended with sunrises, days wasted laying in the ciutadella park, and journeys to new and amazing places. I have learned that things do not always go the way you want or the way you expect, but you must make the most of them. I have learned that every minute matters, and that nothing should be taken for granted. Barcelona has taught me many, many lessons.

As I begin to pack up my belongings and say my goodbyes I am reminded of that same feeling I felt on January 13th. I don’t know where life is going to take me yet. I don’t know if I am ready for another transition. I don’t know if I will ever feel this way about another city in my life. When I think about having to leave Barcelona, I simply can’t breathe.

i want to stop time, i want to freeze in my tracks...
there's something about this feeling that i just can't give back.

Libros y Rosas

Dia de Sant Jordi, a.k.a. St. George's Day, is an experience not to be missed in Barcelona. Sant Jordi is Catalonia's Patron Saint, but the day is more of a Spanish Valentine's day. Men receive books, and women receive roses. La Rambla and Plaza Catalunya are packed with festivities. Camera crews, live recordings of t.v. and radio shows, and stalls and stalls of books and roses. Beautiful roses, in every imaginable colour, tied with ribbon in the pattern of the Catalonian flag. It brings the streets to life, packed with people.


I love being able to walk down the streets here and find a parade or a carnaval, or even a protest. Just everyone coming together, celebrating, showing they care. It creates such a undescribable feeling. How i am going to miss Spanish celebrations...

Many Thanks to Iceland.

I had been wondering how everything had been going so perfectly for me. Ofcourse, there have been a few ups and downs, a few nights i'd rather not repeat, and a few mishaps - but for the most part, life has been extraordinarily good to me lately. I was rather excited to spend a weekend in Amsterdam and Brussels with some of my favourite people, we had lists of activities planned, and, well, I really wanted bagels. But all of a sudden, the Volcano had to go and shut down the airports. It would be this weekend, wouldn't it? It couldn't have chosen a time when I was happily wandering around Barcelona? No, it had to be this weekend.

To make the most of our cancelled flights, we re-routed our get away to Palma de Mallorca. Mallorca is a Balearic Island, and happens to be where I spent my first birthday. It was no-where i'd planned to visit on my trip, and no-where I was too excited to go. But, when you're making the most of things, you take what you can get. We arrived to sunshine, and headed straight to the beach. It was picture-perfect. The kind you find in a magazine, and don't believe actually exists. We fell asleep to the sound of the waves, and awoke to meet some fun-loving local boys. Our weekend was paradise. Danielle, Annie, Kaitlin & I wandered the town, climbed along the rocks, and explored the nightlife. Mallorca was so much more than i'd expected.

As our weekend came to a close, we headed to the airport. It is quite a funny feeling to look up, expecting to find your gate number, and instead to see every.single.flight CANCELLED. The ash had moved over, and BCN and Palma airports were shut down. Finding another option, we headed down to the port to see if we could book a ferry. But, so did the other 200 people trying to get off the island. After standing in line for an hour and a half, and getting pretty much no-where, we lost hope of getting home any time soon. Finally, a silver lining to our dismal day... the airport had reopened. Thinking we would probably get a flight for tuesday morning, we headed over to see what we could sort out. We got the last four seats on the one flight flying to BCN in 20 minutes. We ran through that airport like we were being chased.

Being in the airport made me think of the way the world will end,
everyone sitting, trying to think of a way out, a way home,
but in reality, knowing there is nothing they can do.

Inspiration.

We took a day trip last saturday, to Figueres and Girona.
Figueres is home to Dali, and holds his most famous museum.
Everything in it was mindblowing. I love finding art i love.
Modern art, art that makes you wonder, art that is different.
Girona was unimportant, but it doesn't matter where you are
when you are wandering with life-changing friends.

I heart Lisboa

I'm running out of time.


Lisbon was the last stop of my Spring Break, which is rapidly becoming a part of my past.
I have to live in the now, however many wonderful memories I have in my past.

In two days it became one of my favourite cities in the world.

First impressions are important, and Lisbon gave us a bad one. You'll get that when you wander through the wrong part of town, thinking your hostel is on a sketchy back-street where you feel completely uncomfortable walking. In reality, our hostel was across town, and so nice we were sad to leave.

We got up early and hopped on a touristic bus. I've always wanted to sit up top and look down at everyone passing by. We saw all the sights the city had to offer, and hopped off in Belem. We saw the Torre de Belem, the Monastery, and the Huge statue i forget the name of.  We lined up for Pasteis de Belem with everyone else in town. Sitting in the grass looking at our tarts, we took a bite. Disgusting. I wonder how such a thing is so famous.

That night we ventured to Bairro Alto. The nightlife center of Lisbon. The streets are packed with people, from 18 to 80. The mojitos were the size of my head and cheap. Finally, somewhere cheap! I have never seen anything like it. Bairro Alto is like a festival, every day of the week.

The next day we saw a church, and a castle. Sightseeing is getting repetitive. The most delicious frango-filled crepe. Chocolate covered fruit. A park with an amazing view. Relocation. Further exploration. Exhaustion.

We left happy with our trip.

Lisboa feels cultural, it feels inviting, it feels different.

Some places are just Untouchable.

How in this westernized world do some small wonders still exist?

A long journey along tight and winding roads through the countryside of Portugal brings one to Sintra. On first glance, it is normal. A small town in the hills of the country with some breathtaking views. But Sintra is anything but normal. This gem is more clasically fairytale than anywhere I could imagine. Palaces and Castles are dotted throughout a vibrant-green, waterfall-filled scenery, and Quejidas, a delicious pastry treat, are sold everywhere. Disneyland wishes it had this much magic..

The buildings of the town are older, keeping to the classic terracotta colours of other Portuguese cities. They are roofed with turrets and spirals. Around every corner is another beautiful palace, or a yellow fort-like castle. Venturing further into the greenery brought us to Pena Palace and the Morous Castle. Both historic tourist attractions but with a magic atmosphere to them. The gardens themselves were breathtaking, the palace most fairytale of all, and the hundreds of stones steps of the castle offering a view scattered with more and more and more.

Sintra feels like stepping out of time and reality,
It feels like disappearing into a world of make-believe.

It feels untouchable.

Off Season Beach Town.

Cascais, Portugal

We went to Cascais not knowing what to expect except a beach.
The town itself is tiny. There are a handfull of shops, a supermarket, a shopping centre, and a street of touristic restaurants. It was fine, we had come here to relax after all. It was a great place for wandering, and this is exactly what we did on our first evening before dinner.

Chicken Piri Piri was advertised everywhere. We weren't sure what to expect from Portuguese food, or Portugal itself come to that. So, I tried it. On my plate was half a roasted chicken and fries. Tasty, but overwhelmingly large.

Relaxation is vital. Without it, stress takes over and we are left without enjoyment.

With colder weather than we had been expecting we were cautious of going to the beach. Yet when we did, the sun emerged to warm our skin. I love the feeling of laying on the sand, eyes shut, with the noise of the sea. It is unlike any other feeling. You become one with the world and are lost into an abyss of peace.

Our second day we ventured. Down the beach, as far as we could walk. Past estoril, into tamariz. Beach by beach. Along cliffs, steps carved into the side of the rock, along boardwalks packed with people. We enjoyed life, care-free with no-where specific to be. It's a wonderful feeling.

Cascais is what you make it. The town itself isn't spectacular, and during early april it was almost empty. But the feeling you get from sitting in the sun looking out into paradise is unreal.

The Venezian Islands.

The second day spent in Venice we decided to venture out. We hopped on a Vaporetto and started riding down the Grand Canal. First destination: Murano. Murano is famous for glass blowing; practically every store and stall was filled with hand made glass and glass-art. There were larger glass works statued throughout the town. We watched a demonstration. The furnace room reminded me of something from the past. Glass blowing is apparently a very hard profession. The man was younger than i expected, and he made a vase and a glass horse almost perfectly in about 5 minutes. The town is much like venice with its canals and bridges but much quainter and even quieter. The day itself was beautiful.

After another fresh Italian pizza covered in Gorgonzola cheese, we moved onto Burano. Burano is famous for Lace, but we went for another reason. Every house is painted in a bright colour. Red, Yellow, Pink, Orange, Blue, Green.. Each wife used to paint her house the colour of her husband's fishing boat, and the tradition has continued leaving the town a canvas of bright box houses. I would love to live in such a colourful place, it simply brings a smile to your face.

It's so funny that each place in the world, even each island just a short distance across the water, ends up so unique. Everything is it's own. I love that about this world. I love things that are their own, not cookie-cutter like the world i'm used to.

VENEZIA.

We landed in Treviso, and took a long bus ride through the Italian country side into Venice. First getting off the bus we are lost, and maps are hard to find, but we managed to fight our way through dark and winding streets to our hostel: L'Imbarcadero.

We woke the next morning to a city filled with fog. Venice is characteristically foggy. It adds to the air of the city. A feeling of mystery, it makes you want to explore. The tight passageways, the winding canals, the smells, and the fog. These things make Venice Venice.

The obvious tourist attractions: The Rialto Bridge, St Marks Square, The Basilica, The Bridge of Sighs, and the Palace. This was our day one in Venice, i'm sure much like anyone else's. The Rialto is lined with stores selling classic Venetian masks, it is crowded and has classic views of the Grand Canal. This is our access point to tourist central as we are staying a little out of the way of St Marks. The Square itself is much more impressive in sunlight. The fog suits the alleys and canals much better. The buildings are beautiful, detailed, classic. We entered the Basilica, sneaking photos of its golden mosaiced ceiling. It glistens brightly leaving you in a dome of golden light. The museum above gives access to the roof, form here you can look down into the square, it is a great spot for people watching.

My favourite memory of Venice has always been the Bridge of Sighs. My dad would always tell me the story of the prisoners crossing the bridge, sighing as they got their last view of daylight, and their last glimpse of beautiful venice. This time, I came across the bridge by accident. It is boarded up in bright blue pictures of sky, in advertising. It is under restoration. Disappointment. Thankfully, while wandering through the Palace we found our way to the prisons. This led us across the bridge from the inside. Childhood Memory Restored.

Our host, Alex, was friendly. Over friendly perhaps, but made us feel at home. We cooked dinner, chicken stir fry, ravioli, and salad. It was delicious. We ventured into the streets of venice that night. They were filled with mist. You could barely see two inches in front of your face. It was dark, quiet, and peaceful.

We spent the next day exploring the islands. The sunset over the waters of venice was indescribable. Our next night in venice we ate in style. Spaghetti across the Rialto Bridge. Wine. Gelato. We went to St Marks Square to see the flooding. We splashed through the water filled square. Exuberating. We got lost in the dark city streets, exploring. It was late by the time we found our way home. And our flight out was early. We awoke to a bright sunny day and said goodbye to the sights sounds and smells of Venice.

The city feels like it is filled with a million secrets just waiting to be uncovered.

Spontaneity, mixed with Fire.

Before I head off on my next adventure, I need to write about my last.

Las Fallas is a famous fire festival in Valencia where they burn huge statues representing public figures. We had wanted to go since we got to Spain. The night before, we decided. Matt & David rented a car, and Emily and I joined for a roadtrip to Valencia.

The drive took about 3 1/2 hours, and was filled with great sights, random sing-alongs, and the ocassional showers of rain. Once we reached the city we were lost. Finally finding the beach we sat for a while observing the chaos, listening to bangs going off all around us, and breathing in the air filled with smoke.

By the time we found some friends on the same adventure all the restaurants had closed down for the festival. Thank god for fresh bread, goat cheese, and chorizzo that we had picked up at the market that morning! We tailgated, and headed down to the city. Here we stood in line at a Burger King for two hours, the only location smart enough to sell food. I can't say I am fond of Burger King, but it's better than nothing!

We stood at the main statue, waiting for everything to begin. Peope crowded everywhere, hanging out of windows stories above us. Suddenly, the fireworks started. This is supposed to be one of the most impressive firework shows in Europe, and it did itself justice. Not quite so organzied as a display, but loud and colorful and bright. The next we knew, the statue infront of us, the height of surrounding buildings and elaborately decorated, went up in smoke. As the smoke cleared we could see that the statue had caught fire. It burned bright and sent clouds of ash falling throughout the city. I've never seen anything like it.

We left, satisfied, and headed back to the car. Here we continued our party surrounded by Spaniards, and around 5am headed to the club across the street. Once our night, now morning, had ended, we headed to the beach. This being a spontaneous trip, this was our hotel for the night. We fell asleep to the sound of the ocean, and awoke to the chilly fresh air. Later that day we sat on the beach in warm weather, and ventured to the restaurants for Valencian Paella. This is made with Rabbit instead of Seafood. Full, Happy, and Exhausted we began our jouney home, to Barcelona.

El Quatre Gats.

Today my architecture class took a spontaneous fieldtrip through the city. We walked to Gaudi's Casa Calvert, on to Palau de Musica, and finally ended at El Quatre Gats.

El 4 Gats is one of the most famous restaurants in Barcelona. As struggling young modernista artists, Picasso and friends frequented this spot. The menu is designed by Picasso, and the walls are filled up by sketches and paintings. The atmosphere is incredible.

I first ate here with my parents on the night of the snow storm. It was slightly emptier than usual as most of Barcelona was hididng away. A pianest played familiar and unfamiliar tunes, and we dined. I began with Muscles, a food i have acquired a taste for since being here, and then went on to Salmon stuffed with Prosciutto in a Blue-Cheese Sauce. As if that wasn't enough, i ended with a Caramelized Apple in a Toffee Sauce. All accompanied by plenty of wine, ofcourse.

Feeling this was one of the best culinary experiences i have had, i returned a week later when Helen was in town. She chose Calamari & my reccomendation, the Salmon; i began with Croquettes and ended with Shrimp Crepes. Again, music from the piano floated around the room.

Not only one of the most delicious menu's i have been able to dine from, but one of the best dining atmospheres i have ever experienced.

Other things may change us, but we start & end with Family.

My parents came to Barcelona last week. Family is something you don't always realize how much you're missing until it's right there infront of you again. It's something that lets you experience wherever you are in a completely different way. I love when people visit, because I get to play tour guide. I've learnt so much about this city in such a short time and all I want to do is show off all the wonderous things i've found. I want the city to have a stamp of approval from every one i know.

Day 1: The Arrival.I sat waited in Plaza Catalunya, gifts in hand, anxious for their arrival. Happiness and nerves were filling me all at once. Finally - reunited, & out into the city.
Hungy, we headed for Pita. Shwarma is something i've come to appreciate. It's fast, delicious and you can fill it with whatever you like. After adding some energy we were off to explore. First stop - Santa Maria del Mar. Later that evening we headed to Font Magica, something i've wanted to see since my first week in Barcelona! Font Magica, "Magic Fountain", is a huge fountain lights show set to music, by far the best i have seen in my life. After, we headed to dinner. Tapas, lamb and sangria in El Born.

Day 2: Excursion to Montserrat

We decided to take a day trip. Montserrat is a mountain with extremely unique rock forms, and is home to a monastery. I'd been once before with CEA. We took the train to the bottom, and a cable car up the mountain. We wandered round the buildings, the elaborately decorated monastery, and finally took a funicular up the the very top. Here we hiked the trails and explored ruins, a typical Sargent excursion! Finally we headed half way back down to find a festival had taken over Monteserrat! We passed through, and headed to the farmers market to sample the cheeses. I came back with Queso de Cabra (Goat Cheese) which is strong and delicous. Back in Barcelona we grabbed some lunch and visited the Catedral, for the first time catching it on a day that was free, we actually got to go inside. It was beautiful, but isn't every cathedral; the money that goes into such things could solve half the world's problems. Exhausted, we headed for an easy chinese dinner at Don Ling. Although small and never crowded, it is noted as one of the best chinese in Barcelona, and definitely lives up to it's name. For just 10 euros a person you are served a delicious feast of rice and meat and sangria and so much more.

Day 3: Impromptu Snowstorm.
With my dad at a conference, my mum and I braved the cold and set out to explore some more. It was raining - what to do in the rain... After grabbing traditional Tortillas de Patatas (potatoe omelletes on tomato covered bread) for breakfast, we settled on Palau de Musica - this is a famous music hall. Unfortunately all the english tours were booked, so we braved  tour in Spanish, and I translated as much as I could! It was unbelievable. The hall was extravagant, with a huge glass dome in the ceiling to catch the sound waves. Once the tour was over, we stepped outside into SNOW. Now, for those of you who do not know, it does not snow in Barcelona, not in March, not ever. It wasn't heavy, more a mix of hair and flurries, so we continued on our way to the next indoor activity: The Barcelona Aquarium. Although i missed the penguins as i had to leave for class, we got to see some wonderful marine life. Leaving the aquarium i stepped into a full-on blizzard. It was next to impossible to navigate your way round the city, and the subways were packed as the cabs had to stop running. I later came to find out that this was the biggest snowstorm in over 30 years, and the first time it snowed in over 5. You've gotta love global warming. Once it had cleared up a bit, we met for dinner at El 4 Gats - a place that deserves a blog post of its own!

Day 4: Snow to Sunshine is less than a day.
Despite the blizzard from the day before, we woke to a city full of sunshine. With light jackets and cameras in hand we headed to the Parc Cituadella. I showed my mom the Arc de Triomf and the fountain and lake in the park. A perfect fit for such a beautiful day. We grabbed a light lunch at a corner pastry shop, and I said goodbye as they headed to Granada for a few days.

Day 5: Art & Culture.
On my parents return to Barca, we got an early start. Museu de Picasso was our first stop. Sharing what i'd learned in class, we moved room to room through the periods of Picasso's life. After picking out some art form the gift shop, we headed to La Sagrada Familia. This is Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece - a cathedral that was been under construction for over 150 years, and still has another 50 left to go. To say the least, it is HUGE. We entered into the main floor and carried on up one of the many towers. The view of the city from up there is something to be seen. Next, we went for my favourite Bocadillas at Bo de B, a sandwich shop where they cook all the freshest ingredients right infront of you, and fill your bocadilla with more chicken rice cheese and veggies than you could possible eat. Full from lunch, we wandered through the Boqueria market and marveled at all the colours and variety. That night we got pizzas and mojitos in Barceloneta then headed to El Born - a bar always filled with locals- for cerveca. I don't remember the last time I laughed so hard..

Day 6: Gaudi, Gaudi, Gaudi...
This was my parents last day in Barcelona, and thank goodness it was a sunny one. First we headed to Casa Batllo. I believe this was my dad's favourite activity. It is another of Gaudi's fabulous creations, a house that on the outside tells the story of St George slaying the dragon, and on the inside throws you into a mystical underwater world. The arcitecture and colours go unequaled. After a quick lunch we moved on to another of Gaudi's works: Parc Guell, where we wandered the grounds and stared out over the views. Dinner that was was at Can Majo, a very good restaurant where my mother and I shared a delicious Paella. The next morning, goodbye's were said as I saw them off to the airport. It had been a good week.

Flamenco!

Oh the wonders of Spanish culture...

With a busy week between showing Barcelona off to my parents, and completeing countless midterms and projects, Wednesday night came as a well earned breather.

We rushed from class to the Palacio del Flamenco for one of CEA's pre-planned activities. After filing in and being told repeatedly "No flash! No flash!" the show finally started. The dresses were as colorful as I imagined, and layered with ruffle after ruffle. There were group numbers, coupled dances, female solos, male solos... there was singing and dancing galore. My favorite moment - A lady dressed in a white dress with an incredibly long train. She threw this over her shoulder as she flamencoed across the floor, wrapping it around her body. When it comes to the foot work, Flamenco closely resembles tap. However, it is filled with so much passion. You can see the stress and anger in the faces of the dancers in some moments, and then a moment later the dance becomes sexual or filled with enthusiasm and love. I guess passion is a big part of Spanish culture. They are passionate about their their drink, their dancing, and most of all they are passionate about their love. Nobody here seems to hold back anything, and Flamenco represents that unlike anything else.

It was an exciting night, with some great people.

Dear Barcelona....

I really appreciate the effort it took for you to give us an impromptu blizzard. I also appreciate the fact that you attempted to have it 3 or 4 years ago and failed miserably. Therefore, I forgive you for throwing rain, hail, and finally snow at me in March, since you haven't been able to do so in the last 25 years. However, what I appreciate the most is the fact that you so quickly returned to blue skies and sunshine, leaving almost no trace of a snow storm behind and allowing me to show my parents how lovely it truly is here.
           Sincerely,
                    Naomi.

Escape to Madrid.

Day trips aside, this weekend was the first time I have really ventured out of Barcelona since I arrived in Spain. I think I was ready for a change of scenery. Around a hundred CEA students piled onto the train at Sants headed for Madrid. A group of 6 of us were lucky enough to be seated in a private closed off section of the train, which was quieter and great for sleeping as it was so early. We arrived in Madrid around noon and got settled into Hotel Gaudi. First on the agenda was FOOD. We found an Italian called DiBocca and settled for Menu del Dia: Sea-food salad complete with mussels, crab, and shrimp. Pizza con goat cheese cebollas y manzanas, a much needed water, and cafe con leche.

After revamping our energy we headed off towards the Palace. On the way we passed through Plaza del Sol, a busy plaza with statue-people, fountains, and pure life. The Palace was my favourite part of Madrid. We toured the inside; the rooms have intricate details and are richly decorated. They were absolutely beautiful. Continuing our tour through the streets of Madrid, we ended up in Plaza Mayor. This is the most famous plaza in the city. The buildings are painted brightly, and people swarm everywhere. Finally, we were ready for a break. We took a much needed nap and got ready for the night.

A group of us headed to a Chinese restaurant around 11p.m. for dinner where we indulged in dumplings and lemon chicken. To finish off the meal we were given a complimentary shot of Madrono, Madrid's sweet local liquor. We walked for a while, exploring at night was different than the day. The city didn't feel so safe, I think we have all grown comfortable in Barcelona. Right off of one main road was a plaza filled with about 30 prostitutes, just going right up to people trying to get business; I had definitely never seen anything like that before. We ended the night in a pub called "The Quiet Man." The atmosphere was calm yet lively, the people were spanish, and there was a special on deliciously fresh Mojitos.


The next morning was an early one. We started by filling ourselves with the complimentary breakfast, a luxury when living abroad on a student budget! Next, we loaded onto the busses for a panoramic tour of the city. We drove past all the important buildings, and to my disappointment did not stop at the bull fighting stadium. We got off at Real Madrid's futbol stadium instead, which was quite unimpressive. However, the tour was informative and became more interesting once we started the walking section. We were released for lunch and to spend the rest of the day as we pleased. First stop: Lunch. We chose a typical spanish resaurant where bocadillas and paella were served. Lindsey and I headed back to our room for siesta, then back out into the world to meet up with Mark.

Seeing someone you know from home in a foreign city is a very relieving feeling. A friendly face when you're seperated from your own world for months never goes unwanted.

First we explored the Retiro Park, pretty, but would definitely have been better in the middle of summer. It seemed to be missing a lot of it's life. After grabbing smoothies Lindsey and I headed to the Museo del Prado. I think I would have been better suited going to the Reina Sophia. Prado wasn't really up my alley, but it was still cool to see so much famous art. Once again our day came to a close and we headed home. Later, we met Mark & friends for Thai before pregaming in a plaza outside (as the spanish do!). We weren't exactly dressed for the ocassion though, so we headed to McDonald's. I'm proud to say this was my first time going to one in Spain, and all I got were french fries. The boys bought beer, and we came equipped with our own wine. Drinking in McDonald's is an experience itself. Next we headed to Kaptial: Madrid's biggest club. The night was crazy as is to be expected with a $15 euro cover, two free drinks, and seven floors of night life.

We made it out into the city around 11 for our last day, and headed to La Rastra. This is Madrid's famous flee market that is held through rows of streets and several plazas every sunday. It was filled with culture, antiques, colours, and tiny treasures. We made it back just in time to take the bus to the station, souveniors in hand! The train ride back seemed long, and despite our fun-filled weekend, we all agreed we were excited to be getting back to Onix, and back to Barcelona. It has become home, it has become comfort, yet we have not lost the sense that we are still exploring, it has not become any less wonderous.

On the wrong side of town.

Our photojournalism projects took Kaitlin & I wandering through the outskirts of Barcelona. Off of La Rambla, through the Barri Gotic, and into an unknown labyrinth of streets. At one point we crossed a work yard into a new neighbourhood which I quickly noticed seemed a little unsafer than the previous. We were finding good shots, so we decided to continue.
Turning down a street four policemen yell at us "Passe passe passe!", not really knowing what they meant, we continued. The street was dingy, fabric hung across the balconies, the buildings were crumbling. Kaitlin took a picture of a lady on her balcony, and chaos errupted.
The lady started yelling in spanish and throwing her clothes pegs at us. Then the girl on the street next to us, with heels and bright red lipstick in the early afternoon, grabbed Kaitlin by the arm. She demanded to know why we would be taking pictures here, why we were even here. Before we could answer she slapped us on the backs and told us to get out. We practically ran off the street.
Two men who had been behind us came up and asked us what we were doing, we explained. Their reply was "this is bad, very very bad, you can't come here," out of the four streets ahead of us he told us there was only one we could walk down. We returned to La Rambla as quickly as we could, hearts racing, headed for cafe con leche to discuss what had just happened.
After talking to our photo teacher we discovered we had been in El Raval. This is practically a brothel. According to him their are working ladies up to 80 years old there. No-wonder.. 

A quick note on going to the movies....

Tonight Kaitlin & I ventured to el cine. Apparently, the movies are busy on Sunday nights in Spain. Luckily we got there early. After we got our tickets we headed to a tiny spanish bar for one euro beers, this is extremely cheap!!!, then went to go and get our seats. Once we figured out the line system to even get into the theatre we found it pretty packed so decided to sit closer to the front. After sitting for about 5 minutes some spanish people came up and started speaking to us, looking rather confused. Eventually I figured out they were talking numbers - seat numbers! The movies in Spain have assigned seats. They say you learn something new everyday...

As much as my family keep telling me I will, I don't think I will ever learn to love Red Wine.

Places I Can Cross Off My List

Here it seems like it is always the weekend. That may have something to do with the constant life of the city, or it may have something to do with the timing of my school work. I don't have classes until 4:30 on Lunes y Miercoles, and 1:30 Martes y Jueves. Viernes, Sabado y Domingo are the weekend. This leaves plenty of time to explore. After all, that is what i'm here for.

Perhaps my favourite part of Barcelona falls right within my own neighborhood. A few mintues walk from the door of my residencia puts me at Arc de Triomf. Much like the french Arc, Barcelona's is overwhelming in its size and detail. It leads into a wide pedestrian pathway where people are often found rollerblading. This pathway leads down to the entrance of the Ciutadella Park. On a sunny day this wide open space is packed with kids, families, and people on bicycles. There are sculptures, a ridiculous fountain sporting a golden horse drawn carriage, and most importantly a beautiful pond. This reminds me of the notebook. There are dangling plants, ducks and seagulls, and row boats that can be taken out on a sunny day. It is the perfect place to spend any afternoon.

La Rambla is the main street of Barcelona. It is filled with crowds of people, flower stalls, and news stands. However, my favourite part is the human statues. Guys and gals dressed in outrageous costumes, painted head to toe, some seemingly floating in the air. Off of La Rambla is a maze of streets that turn into ancient tiny alleyways known as the Barri Gotic. These gothic quarters are the most complete in europe and carry small fashion boutiques, bars, and tiny pastry shops selling churros y xocolate! Taking a different exit off of La Rambla leads you into La Boqueria. This is a huge open air market filled with bustling sounds and wonderfull sights and smells. Everything is brightly colored - fresh. There are fruits i've never seen before, legs of ham hanging in rows, fish so fresh some of it is still alive and chocolates to die for. My favourite is the smoothies. Freshly made of pure fruit, and costing only a euro, they bring your tastebuds to life.

Rainy days and sundays often equal museum days. One rainy day with nothing else to do we decided to visit Museu Maritim. This is a museum for boat building and history of the seas. Some parts were interesting, the rest so-so. All the signs being in Catalan didn't help much! The best part was the building itself. It's in the original building that ships used to be built in so it has huge archways and passages. Another day led us to the CosmoCaixa, a famous science museum in Tibidabo just outside of Barcelona. For a day we were not students studying abroad, but kids amazed by hands-on-science. The CaixaForum is a gallery I visited with my photography class. It was holding the photos of Spain's current top three photographers. The pictures, though mildly disturbing and depressing, told amazing stories. They uncovered forgotten problems such as acid being used against women, and pictures from the middle of an unpublicized war zone.

The immense history of Barcelona leaves it with remains and churches aplenty. Perhaps the oldest remains were the ones I saw during a fieldtrip. The Roman Walls of the city have mostly been destroyed or hidden, but in one placa they can still be seen. Along with these walls is Temple d'Augustus, a temple that contains the original roman columns from when it was first built. Santa Maria del Mar was the latest thing i visited. It was built for families of men out at sea. It is Catalan Gothic which means it is extremely wide for a church. The chandeliers and stain glass windows add beauty to such a simple flat structure. The floor is covered in carvings, and i was suprised to find the skull and crossbones a few times across the floor.

For now everything else seems to be slipping my mind; tomorrow i'll cross something else off, maybe MontJuic.