DAY SEVEN

Arrived in Barcelona about 7am - I watched from the balcony (in my nightie - it wasn’t cold) as we came in to the new pier. These huge ships are so nifty.

Several folk disembarked - they just had a week’s cruise, but we’re one of the lucky ones who are continuing to Rome, another week.

A quick breakfast, then off on a tour of the city. We’ve been here many times - love it - but I’ve never been up Montjuic, which we did today, so that was a great start. From there we drove all over the city - my kind of tour! The tour leader was so enthusiastic about her city, and no wonder - it’s a special place. And I did NOT see one bit of litter. NO clogged gutters, chewing gum covered pavements, overflowing rubbish bins. Visitors to the UK must be shocked at the state of some of our cities. Why is it like this?

We saw most of the sights, but for anyone who hasn’t already been walking in the city, they wouldn’t get the feel of it with this tour, just an overview. And hence not many city sights were photographed. We ended up in Barceloneta for a coffee and a stroll. Lots of e-scooters in the city. 

Back in time for lunch. And we were able to sit out on the deck and watch the harbour goings-on, including a nearby heli-pad. 

We had a few things to sort out at reception, and the new folk were coming on, looking dishevelled and stressed (the Covid protocols) but excited. Another bottle of champagne in our room - and we haven’t drunk the first one. We need our pal Hazel to help us!

As we were chatting with our Aussie pals in the lounge, the new folk were mingling. The fun-loving American travel agents have left, so it’s a bit quiet… One of the officers chatted with us, then came back later, asking if we would mind if a new passenger came and joined us, as she was on her own. Of course not. Apparently there are only five ‘singles’ on this trip - there were lots last week. However, Maureen was lovely, and she came to dinner with us. She had the steak that I didn’t have tonight… I had sea bass, which was very nice. 

We arrive in Marseille about midday tomorrow, so no early trips! JR is planning to go to the early gym session (for the first time).

PS: Archie has been enjoying a round of golf with Derek!