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I have finished my trip and I wanted to add closing thoughts to all of those who have been reading--thank you by the way. My last weekend in Barcelona and Europe was enjoyable and I managed to squeeze in Monserrat and any last minute photos of Barcelona I may have not snapped.

Lisa (my flatmate) and I went to the Cultural Museum on Sunday and the currrent exhibit was titled "The Apartheid". While it was compelling, it had a sobering affect on us as well. I needn't get into too many of the reasons for this obvious affect. But, it was a reminder of all the places in the world that have it worse than us. It also reminded me personally as an American of the things that have happened and still happens in the Unted States. Even today in a land where freedom exists, there still remains prejudice, racism, ignorance, and hatred. So, one can see how these reminders can leave a person feeling a little bummed. Enough said. We moved on after the museum and decided to walk home so I could see Barcelona one last time before I left the place I have called home for the last 4 weeks.

I find it interesting how no matter how much time you spend somewhere, there always seems to be that feeling of "I didn't get the chance to do this and that and now I am leaving". I lived in Chicago for 27 years and I still find things I have not yet done or seen. Granted, in a smaller town or village, you may not feel that way EXACTLY after 27 years or even 2 years. However, even the smaller places in Europe still struck me. You can just find more details you may have missed or the town begins to grow on you, so you appreciate the little things. The smaller towns then become more of a comfort to you. So even when you think you have seen it all, you will miss that comfort feeling when you leave. Of course the bigger the city, the longer it takes to appreciate the small details. Also, the longer you spend somewhere, the more attached you get.

Well, Barcelona left that impression on me for a few reasons. In addition to it being sunny everyday and having the beach 5 minutes away, I made friends there. I developed a daily routine which included grocery shopping and having a "laundry day". I started to know the metra stops by heart, and I began to know which neighborhoods the locals hung out. But, I also think I grew attached to it because it was the last place I would live before my return to the US. So, I clung on to it the way a person savors the last bite of chocolate cake or favorite dessert. Isn't that last bite always the best?

Anyhow, overall, I loved every day and every place on my trip. Many people have asked me where my favorite place was and that is difficult to say. Each place has it's own uniqueness and whether it was a big city like Berlin or a small town like Garmisch or Riomaggiore, or an even smaller village like Vernine in Tuscany, each has its appeal. I have to say Europe is one heck of a place filled with many languages and cultures, diversity and charm, and an abundance of historical significance and beauty. And still there is so much more to see! Goodbye, Au revoir, Tschüss, Wiedersehen, Ciao, Adios!

Until next time....happy travels!

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