Marilyn's Odyssey: Puissilacon to Barcelona

The last few days have been incredible and definitely a sharp contrast to each other. On Sunday we left Montpellier and travelled to Puissilacon where I was fortunate to spend a couple of days with Maggie's friends Ian and Jenny. They have an amazing home in the hilltop village of Puissilacon which they share with several other Australian friends. It is set in this quiet town that is looked over by a centuries old castle. I loved walking the streets and was fun to contemplate what type of homes are hidden by the ancient exteriors. We walked over to the next village, through the grape fields for beer, explored a couple of the most incredible cemeteries where the respect for past generations is so touching. On Monday we travelled to first the locks at Bezier which we went up nine years ago in our rented canal boat Pigasse. Was really fun to watch another boat going up but not as much as doing it ourselves! We the drove to the Etang which we had also crossed previously when on the canal trip. The Etang is covered with oyster and mussel farms so no better place to go to a seaside restaurant which served up a shellfish Buffett like I have never seen. There was an endless supply of oysters, mussels,crab,prawns,snails,clams and scallops washed down with a lovely Pinet..so relieved that I was with others who also made several trips to the buffet. Had a lovely time for the two days and was wonderful to be in such a lovely spot.

Tuesday morning saw me hopping on the train to Barcelona for a much anticipated reunion with Eric. We have both had such remarkable experiences and have so much to share. Barcelona has already far exceeded my expectations. It is truly a city that has it all. From the sprawling Gothic old town where one could wander the winding streets for days discovering new restaurants,stores, old churches and wonderful examples of architecture. The influence of Gaudi is quite evident in many areas of the city and certainly adds a flair. On the Hop on and Off tour we were treated to many different areas and sights from the palace to the Olympic Stadium and even the Barcelona Soccer Stadium. The streets are alive with every type of vendor and street performer. The large market on La Ramblas is a feast for the eyes selling every type of fresh food imaginable. To add to the wonder of this city there is a long coastline with beautiful beaches, bustling restaurants, huge marinas, world trad center and on and on it goes. So glad that we have a few more days to explore. Spent a good part of today at Parc Guell which was designed by Gaudi in the early 1900's as an exclusive gated community but due to lack of sales was turned over to the city as a park. It is a photographers delight and one we will not forget. It is said that being dropped on by a bird is good luck and if this is so I should have good luck for the rest of my life as they have large birds here. Do not think I need to elaborate. Well must go and grab a wine!