Second Time Around (Oct 3rd)

Back in Barcelona! Debarking the ship proved to be a seamless endeavor, and we stored our bags at the hotel until the rooms would be ready in the early afternoon. Oh, and there was a noticeable void at the reception desk - and we suspect that we may have been the cause of a termination. Long story. Horrible front desk clerk on our initial attempt to check in at the beginning of our travels caused us to stay in an alternative hotel pre-cruise, and for us to return to speak to a manager about our treatment. Maria has been known to take the backseat in these type of altercations, but NOT THE CASE with this exchange. She was pissed. The result? We were upgraded to one of the best rooms of the hotel, free breakfasts, and Lori's parents got bumped up as well. The conclusion seems to be letting Maria take the reins from now on.

Anyway, we took the morning to walk around Barri Gotic and check out the little shops and explore the winding streets. Found the Picasso Museum. Grabbed yet another amazingly delicious bakery item. Enjoyed some cafe con leche. Enjoyed some wine. We love Barcelona.
One thing that was a must-do that day way have lunch at a restaurant named Cal Pep. It was recommended by friends (thanks Monica and Ellen), and is listed in every single travel guide we checked out. And for good reason! It opens at 1pm on Saturdays, and the people waiting outside started que'ing up a half hour before go-time. We put our palates into the hands of the chef, and he decided what plates we would be experiencing. We want to go back!
What would a trip to Spain be without going to a performance of Flamenco dancing? Not something we would like to endure, thank you very much. So we signed up for an evening performance. A truly impressive show, and we even got sangria with the deal. Cooper was very good for a while, but halfway through Maria took him out to the waiting area. Even though the music and dancing is pretty freakin' loud, we did not want his babbling to bother anyone.

There are a few things Cooper loves:

1. Touring around Barcelona.

2. Freedom from his stroller.

3. And spending time with Mommy.