OCTOBER 2022 : SPAIN : Girona - Barcelona

Girona has a population of 100,500 people and is part of Catalonia. They speak Catalan, but everyone seems to speak both Catalan and Castellano. Like so many Mediterranean cities they have a Roman, Moor and Catholic history. The cathedral now sits on the site of the Roman Forum.

Breakfast in the main plaza

Then we crossed a bridge back into the old town or Barrí Vell..



We walked up and down alleyways 

all around the town wall..

..through the Jewish Quarter..

We discovered the Arab baths along the way. Built in the 12th century in the style of Roman baths.

While having coffee, I decided…



to have a haircut. The hairdresser and I chatted in Spanish. She asked whether it was alright to use a machine and trusting her, I said yes. Then out came the clippers and within moments I was transformed! I was able to persuade her to stop as she started on the top. She said that she was giving me a new look! €20

In hindsight, I think I said ‘short’ rather than ‘cut’ which is why she was so keen with the clippers.

Although the river is low and murky, I can’t get enough of the colourful houses along the banks.

Lunch up an alley to an alternative (bike) cafe

Leaving Girona

One day was perfect!

Train to Barcelona - an hour journey on TGV (fast train)

Our Airbnb for the next 5 nights

Four bedrooms, one double with ensuite, fully equipped kitchen and pleasant living area.

Plenty of room for six and a 5 year old.

Walking friends - Spanish, Irish and English - to share with us and spend a few days together.

The first contingent has arrived

Dinner nearby

M&M