Europe: Day 2 (Part 1)

September 28, 2010

The morning came way too soon.  We quickly got dressed, finished packing, and then set off to find a café in Dam Square for breakfast.  The Dam Square, which was in walking distance from our hotel, is a picturesque square lined with fashionable boutiques, interesting galleries, and gourmet restaurants.  It is also home to some of the most stunning architecture in the city.  We found a place that boasted it had the best apple pancakes in the city, so we thought we would test their claim.  I am not sure if they were the best or not, however I swear to you that apple pancakes alone are worth a trip to Amsterdam!  They were that good.

Before we knew it, we were back at the airport and then on a plane headed to Barcelona.  I had been to Spain four years prior, but had only had the chance to visit Madrid.  During that trip I encountered some of my most frustrating travel experiences thus far, as I had all of my valuables stolen on two, yes two, different occasions.  Having said that, I did not let that stop me from revisiting Spain.  Every place deserves a second chance, especially one as special as Spain.

I instinctively knew that I would fall in love with Barcelona.  Maybe that is why it took me so long to visit  — I was afraid that once I was there I would never want to leave?  In my mind it was the most perfect place; it was a big city filled with diversity, it had beautiful beaches, and it was centered around Latin culture.

It took about five minutes of being in Barcelona for me to realize that my fear was valid.  Barcelona was simply the most perfect city!  We arrived fairly late in the day, so exploring would have to wait until the next day.  We checked into the posh Majestic Hotel & Spa, located in the heart of the city on the famed Paseo de Gracia.  Just steps away from the hotel was some of the best shopping and restaurants, as well as Gaudi monuments.  Though the real reason we chose this hotel was due to the fabulous rooftop pool and view.

Not wanting to waste one second more, we departed for Puerto Olimpico for tapas, sangria, and. . .

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Andi Perullo de Ledesma

I am Andi Perullo de Ledesma, a Chinese Medicine Doctor and Travel Photojournalist in Charlotte, NC. I am also wife to Lucas and mother to Joaquín. Follow us as we explore life and the world one beautiful adventure at a time.

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32 thoughts on “Europe: Day 2 (Part 1)

  1. Jen Laceda

    LOVE Barcelona!!!!! Did you get a chance to go to its many food markets? Boqueria is probably the most popular, followed by Santa Caterina. Speaking of Puerto Olympico, there’s a cool restaurant-lounge around that vicinity. Bestial.

    Reply
  2. Norbert

    I LOVE Barcelona. I went there in 2003 and I’m dying to go back. It’s architecture is amazing and the city life and atmosphere is so unique and inviting. Try La Rambla, I think you’re gonna love it!

    Reply
  3. Jennifer Barry

    I remember having delicious pastries in Amsterdam, and getting mistaken for Dutch a couple of time.

    I’ve wanted to visit Barcelona ever since I saw that movie Vicky Christina Barcelona. All the guys look like Javier Bardem, right? 🙂

    Reply
  4. Kyle

    After visiting and LOVING Madrid, all I want to do is go to Barcelona!!! Everyone says it’s just as cool but has a totally different vibe. I am obsessed with Espana so I think it would be totally awesome to go back. Seeing your pictures just confirms that!

    Reply
  5. Elisa_Croatia

    I’m planning a trip to Barcelona in Early November so I can’t wait to read what more you discover. I’m NOW tempted to book at the Majestic for the views and that swimming pool.

    Reply
  6. Sam

    Hi, what a fantastic blog, I have to admit this is really well thought out, this world definitely needs bloggers like you!

    Reply

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