Day 3: Barcelona, Spain

I managed to sleep until 4am so progress is being made!  If only I could stay up later then I think my sleep schedule would be great.  I really did not know much about Antoni Gaudi before coming to Spain.  I had seen pictures of his work so was curious to see it in person.  Today my first stop was to La Pedrera also known as Casa Mila.  They have a special tour called The Awakening.  It is a small group tour that happens before the museum actually opens.  Our group was only 8 people and the 8am start time was great for someone with sleep issues.  I went early and sat outside watching the locals go about their morning and admiring the buildings.

The tour started on time and was fabulous!  It was worth every penny (which was only about 10€ more than regular admission) and learned so much that I would have not if on my own.  The best part was the roof and the views . . .

The inside was impressive and was amazed at how large the apartments were inside.  On the interior bricks you could see hand prints and finger prints from the people who made the bricks . . .

I went back to the hotel for a quick breakfast before checking out and going to my next tour which was self guided at Casa Batllo.  Wow was it crowded!

Before I headed to the airport, I stopped to get a small snack . . . can your believe this only cost 4€ (about $5)?

The airport was interesting.  I checked my own bag, scanned my boarding pass for security, and no one checked my passport until I boarded the plane.  I am flying on a budget carrier called Vueling.  I had a difficult time purchasing a ticket for this leg of the trip, Barcelona to Amsterdam.  I tried direct with Vueling and would not accept any of my credit cards.  So I tried Iberia and same issue.  I finally resorted to Expedia and worked with no problem.  I was a bit worried what this  65€ (about $75) flight would be like.  The plane was here and on time . . .

. . . for 65€ (about $75) I was surprised.  I had a free checked bag and assigned seat.  There were no free drinks or snacks on board not even water but for 2 hours it wasn't a big deal.  I arrived on time and so did my bag.  What more could I ask for?  I made the quick walk to the Amsterdam Hilton Hotel connected to Amsterdam Schiphol airport.  It was a long walk but the best place to stay to position myself for the next two days.  My room was ready since it was so late so that was good.  I was excited about the view and being able to lay in bed and watch planes arrive and depart . . .

. . . I was also happy there was an executive lounge for drinks and snacks too.  Apparently it was America night because they had ribs and potato salad . . .