Happy to be Back Home from Europe

the view from my window at Hotel Colon in Barcelona

Yesterday afternoon I arrived back to LAX after taking a gorgeous Mediterranean cruise on NCL.  We went to so many incredible ports: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Naples, Rome, Florence, Cannes, and Palma, Mallorca.  It was a magical journey by sea.  Traveling by air now is very different than it used to be.  I found it challenging, but strived to remain positive. I made a concerted effort to focus on the beauty and charm of Europe.

the bedding and wallpaper were exquisite

I had a magnificent room at Hotel Colon.   Imagine my excitement when I pulled open my curtains and saw this view of Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia.  It took my breath away; I spent hours gazing at it and soaking in the majestic energy that it emanates.  What a masterpiece.  I was absolutely thrilled with my good fortune in the positioning of my room.

a carriage in Mallorca, Spain

My flight didn't leave until 6:00 a.m.  To be on the safe side, I had booked an apartment in Barcelona to stay in the night before the cruise, and this luxurious hotel room at Hotel Colon for the night after we got back into port.  I decided to splurge on a boutique hotel, since I love old Europe and the charming buildings and decor.  I was so impressed with the detail, beauty, and impeccable staff there.  It ended up being a highlight of my trip.  I didn't do much outside, since I was exhausted from twelve days of sailing on The Epic and sightseeing.  I did sit on the Hop On Hop Off bus thorough the city.   My room had an espresso maker that was quite impressive.  It was a huge relief to soak in the relaxing bathtub after showering for the last fourteen days.

I will be posting photos and information about the vacation in the next several days.  I had some interesting experiences as a solo traveler.  As always, I was so happy to return home to my affectionate dog, comfortable cottage, and healthy garden.  Today I am making soup, winter tea for a cold that I contacted, and catching up on mail.  I'll also be paying bills online, and catching up on blogs.

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