FlyAwayWithChari

We were greeted by the city lights when we arrived in Barcelona, Spain. It was a different scene. From cobblestones and rustic architecture, I am now greeted by modern buildings and roads.  More than a cosmopolitan place, Barcelona had many hidden secrets…once found…they will leave you breathless.

And as I chanced upon each beautiful secret, I also found love. It may have been kismet in Paris, but in Barcelona, I knew my life was forever changed.

Walking along Exiample Izquierda, I felt butterflies in my tummy. Secretly I was thrilled because finally I was going to see JMT again. And when we finally met, I smiled with restrain…afraid to reveal my secret but hoping he had one too.

Basilica de la Sagrada Familia by Antoni Gaudi

It is a very eccentric church which left me puzzled and at awe all at the same time. Outside, at first glance, it looked gory but as I paid closer attention to the details, I realized that the whole structure told an infinite story.

I wanted a photo with JMT but he decided not to join us and told me that there will be many more chances. I turned my back and convinced myself that I was being a silly girl. And so I decided to keep my distance and who would have thought that things will change after that.

Black Tank Top: Zara| Beige Pants: Fab find at Pratunam, Bangkok| Black Ballet Flats: Nine West| Black Leather Bag: Zara

The main altar inside the basilica

The design inside the basilica is a total contrast to what I saw outside. Inside, it felt modern, bright, but cold. Each corner made me wonder what Gaudi was thinking about when he created this.

After exploring the basilica, we were all famished. We went in the first Spanish restaurant we found. I loved the fried chili we ordered.

This was my first authentic Spanish Paella and it was different from what I grew up with. The paella I’ve been accustomed to was dry but the one in Spain had more sauce. Personally, I prefer it dry but to each his own.

Casa Batllo by Gaudi

While the terraces looked like skulls, I found the structure delightful. It brought me back to my childhood days when I used to believe in fairies.

We spent the rest of the afternoon walking around the city and discovered so many different forms of art in narrow roads and pathways.

Being an artist myself, I was overwhelmed by the appreciation for art and culture in Barcelona.

A group of dancers showing off their skills

This pathway is special to me. I stopped to listen to this group of musicians when JMT started to talk to me. We then talked about our dreams…our alter egos…Lost in the music and our conversation, we found ourselves separate from the group. I was breathless with how refreshing it felt to be able to talk to someone like him.

We finally found our friends. We were all confused and amazed as to how this performer managed to do this stunt. We now know the answer but I’d rather not reveal it. And as I was lost in my own confusion, JMT took a candid shot of me which he later on used as a reason to get my contact details…..

This was indeed a one fine afternoon!

Oh esta es vida!

Market Restaurant

Their Fried Prawns with Courgette salad is a must try!

One of the best things I found out about Barcelona was that people here know how to party. The best bars are at the Port Olympico area. Clubbing in Barcelona was definitely an unforgettable experience!

The white Sangria was definitely refreshing! It was perfect for a very hot day and minor hangover. hahaha!

Paella Negra for our main course and Crema Catalana for dessert

After lunch we headed to Barcelonita for an afternoon under the sun! The sight and the people were beautiful.

Park Guell by Gaudi

Similar to Casa Batllo, Park Guell had a dreamy feel. If I was to recreate the story Hansel & Gretel, this would be the setting. The view of the city from the park was also beautiful.

Posing around at Park Guell

Freezing and hungry, we stopped by the Txapela tapas bar which is also a must try!

Oh everything was delectable!

Yes, I was keeping my distance but I had to take a stolen shot of JMT. Oh, what lengths a girl must go through to get a photo of a man she secretly admires….(and it’s not even a clear shot! )

Basilica de la Sagrada Familia at night

Tip: If you have time, visit the basilica in the morning and at night so you can better appreciate it.

With my fabulous sister on our way to the train station

The train ride to Mt. Monsterrat forever changed my life. JMT and I found ourselves with no seat. It was a one hour train ride but we were once again lost in our conversation. We talked about how much we love coffee and what our ideal morning was. He complemented my style and even called it “classic.” We talked about our dogs and families. And the more that I got to know him, the more my heartbeat raced strongly.

A breathtaking view from the teleferic (cable car)

We arrived at Montserrat and I was full of hope. He asked if he can go around with me and I said yes. Hesitantly, I entertained the idea that he might share my secret but I immediately let the idea go. The shadows of my past lingered and I felt scared. We went around the monastery and fortunately got the chance to listen to the famous boys choir. Their angelic voice filled my heart with peace and when I finally saw the image of the Lady of Montserrat, I found myself on my knees praying to give me a sign if this was worth the risk.

On our way back to Barcelona, we were the only ones without a seat again but at this point I didn’t mind at all. This time we talked about love, chances, and wounds that made us stronger. The hour passed by so quickly that when the train stopped, my heart stopped. Possibly, that was the last time I was going to see him. “I hope you find someone who  will make you feel giddy again,” was his last words and I wished him the same…. We got off the train and went to our last destination as a group.

The majestic Palau Nacional at Mt. Montjuic

Orange Coat: H&M| Vintage Sunnies: Fab find at the Amsterdam Flea Market| Bag: Longchamp| Gold Sandals: Charles & Keith

After we took this last group shot, we said our goodbyes. I felt uneasy. My tummy was still filled with butterflies. Helpless, I said goodbye. We went back to the train stop while he went back to explore Mt. Montjuic. A few steps down the stairs, I knew this couldn’t be the last time I will see him. Hurriedly and unknown to my friends, I ran back up wishing that he was still there. With hope and conviction, my eyes searched for him. I saw him walking the other way and so I told myself that if he turns around then what I felt was true and he did! I waved my hand hoping that he saw me. I went back down giddy. Did he see me or was I only imagining? At that point, I left it all to my faith.

Our story continues…