Welcome to Europe

4/2/09
Day 1..success!!! This hostel is really great and my roommates are fun-also friendly and super interesting. Everyone in Europe has a cool story! I spent most of today exploring the city and scoping things I might want to see. The mediteranean sea is close, and lots of art and museums. We also have free Internet!

LESSON #1: DO THE MATH! ...I spent 20 USD on a water, apple, muffin and juice because I assumed E9.90 was double USD....it's actually HALF. Europe is expensive!!

4/3/09
My trip, thus far, has been nothing but smooth and exciting. I just do whatever, whenever, wherever. A perk to traveling alone! I've also made some friends as well! I met a guy from Belgium and we did some sightseeing and had dinner. My roommates are very cool. They represent, Germany, Australia, UK, France, and Japan. I've learned that no one asks for names really, just "where are you from?" From there you are either (in my case) America, or The American.

view from my hostel room

Yesterday I must have covered at least 30 miles. I found the something Jardines (which is something Gardens). What a SIGHT!! I could see all of Barcelona from there!! Lots of people walking there dogs, playing football (soccer), running, and just enjoying the views. In that area of the city it is mainly residents. It was great to see that side of the city.

I also saw "Parc Guell" prounounced "Parkay way". It's a grounds developed as a home for a very wealthy family "Guell". Antoni Gaudi (famous for his work here in Barcelona) designed the grounds. This Gaudi guy was amazing. His style is very funky, smooth, bold and def out of the ordinary.

ceiling sea glass at Parc Guell

Today I'm off to scope out the beach. It's almost 70 degress and sunny here. Tomorrow the Australian and I are going to see Monteserrat. I will keep you posted!

LESSON #2: WHEN THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO ROOM (WHAT-SO-EVER) IN YOUR LUGGAGE, IT IS NOT NOT NOT A GOOD IDEA TO GO SHOPPING.

LESSON #2a: OR BUY ARTWORK