I’m really excited to be in Barcelona, Spain!  I am already feeling energized by the heightened level of activity in the city.  Or, maybe it’s just my first stop to visit a friend that I haven’t see in a while . . .

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Yes, that’s right – Starbucks.  I know you were hoping I’d show you some interesting Gaudí architecture, but hey, this is MY trip, and my first stop is Starbucks.  (Mainly because I needed to go in to access wi-fi (pronounced wee-fee, in Spain), in order to find out how to get to my hotel.)  It turns out that my hotel is just a block and a half away, so it looks like I’ll be visiting this Starbucks a lot this week.

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My hotel is located near the University, so there is a lot going on, plenty of people around, students skateboarding in the square, lots of shops and restaurants, pretty much everything you need. (Did I mention that Starbucks is just a block and a half away?)

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After getting settled into my hotel, I met up with my friend, Melissa, and we walked up Rambla de Catalunya and Passeig de Gracia.  We planned on having a coffee, but instead decided to get a little something more.  Melissa recommended Cornelia & Co. It was fantastic. The decor is warm and inviting, the service was wonderful, and the food selection was filled with interesting flavor combinations.

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I think I’m going to like it here.  I’m already in love with the fact that none of the buildings, that are located on intersections, have corners. Each building has a flat wall that faces the streets. Aside from being visually appealing, this makes the streets feel more open and friendly. Bring it on, Barcelona!

Vagabonding 2012-2013 Total Miles: 7,579