March 2-3, 2020
Each year we attempt an international vacation, usually during shoulder season, to avoid the crowds and inflated price tags. Now enter COVID-19 into the mix and you get an introvert with social anxiety's travel dream. While yes, there are some concerns for traveling during a pandemic (possible quarantine, flight cancellations, etc), so far it's been smooth sailing. While Ryan and I are both healthy and at a low risk of contracting, we still took some precautions....washing our hands more. Shocking, I know. Don't worry, no face masks were harmed in this production.
So here we are, bound for Northern Spain. First stop: Barcelona.
Ryan and I started the trip by dropping off our fur babies at the Staatz residence, before hailing an Uber to SFO on a Monday at 5pm. Pandemic perk #1: no traffic. It took us less than an hour to get to the airport during rush hour. Upon arrival we were greeted pandemic perk #2: an empty, and I mean EMPTY, international terminal.
From checking our bags (super unusual) to getting through security, it took us an amazing 12 minutes. This trip we decided to splurge a little and upgrade to the premium economy seating on Norwegian. Having traveled on Norwegian before, we wanted to test the difference from regular economy. I would say it was a successful decision. With a flight time just under 11 hours, being able to recline almost flat and have two meals included, was great.
Well fed and a little bloodshot, we landed in Barcelona (March 3 around 3pm). Once again we entered an empty airport. Customs and immigration took no time and soon we were on our way into town. Barcelona is a great place for those who love to plan and purchase ahead of time to avoid large crowds or looking like a tourist, especially during peak season. Following the recommendations of friends and of course the internet, we purchased city passes that included tickets to popular attractions and passage on the Aerobus.
The Aerobus ride dropped us off at Plaça de Catalunya, a short walking distance to our hotel, Yurbban Trafalgar. Definitely intended for hipster travelers with sassy, pun infused signage, free bike rentals, roof top bar and pool, and a wine social hour, it has it all.
Following a much needed shower (my number one rule post-flight), Ryan took a little siesta and handled a few work related items before we checked out the rooftop lounge and wine hour.
Wine hour included a lovely spread of cheeses, nuts, and fruit (intended for the sangria), and of course self serve wine....on tap! Ryan and I had a great time talking with other guests, many of which were from the UK in town for a conference.
At around 8pm, we made our way out to grab some dinner, and when in Spain...tapas. Directly across from the Palau de la Música Catalana, Ryan found a very vegetarian friendly tapas bar, Tosca. Stuffed with cheese and mushroom empanadas, patatas, chorizo (Ryan), and wine, we made it back to the hotel for some much needed sleep.
Bona nit, buenas noches, goodnight.
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