DAY 9

We had the whole day to explore Barcelona (or “Barthelona” as the locals would pronounce it). We enjoyed walking up and down Las Ramblas, a street open to pedestrians that has shopping, restaurants, and sightseeing. Las Ramblas is also the home of a market called La Boqueria, which has everything you could imagine, including a full pig (eye balls and all) that you can purchase for dinner! We liked looking at the chocolates and candies that were stacked up along the walkways. Also, when we were in the seafood section looking at the crabs, one snapped its claws and almost crawled right off of the table! We had no idea they were on display still completely alive (but freezing their shells off!). After the market we headed towards the Mediterranean Sea. We walked along the boardwalk and enjoyed the warm, sunny weather. Later on, we grabbed a bite to eat on Las Ramblas, did some shopping in the area, and then met up with the group to head back to the hotel. Since dinner is set so late, we had time for a siesta. When we woke up, we headed back into town for some paella and delicious sangria by the water. Barcelona is also known for its crazy nightlife. So after our meal, we met our group at a bar in the Port Olímpico around 11pm. We enjoyed some (very strong) long island iced teas. Around 1am, our group headed to a dancing club and had fun ‘shaking our bon-bons’ all night long.