Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Day 5 in Barcelona; day 7 of the Spain trip. Private transport via Barcelona Airport Transfers via Bohigas—recommended—in two vans to BCN with pickup time of 8:30 AM took less than 30 minutes even with some heavy traffic (actual: 8:38 to 9:03). Van 1: Phil, Wayne, Charles, me. Van 2: Drew, Quyen, Dave, Paul, Danny. Attempted to check in to an airport VIP lounge, but it was far from our gate, so they suggested a closer lounge. Long walk to the other VIP lounge. Breakfast: pastries, yogurt with fruit, water. The flight was only about 67% full, so some people changed seats after the door was closed. Arrival in Madrid. Private transport from MAD to the VRBO did not work very well. We had to walk a long way to the van. Checked in to our Madrid VRBO with owner Miguel. Late afternoon meal at Platea: beef skewers with potatoes. Nap. Walked to Circulo de Belles Artes after accidentally walking to the closed art store called Belles Artes. White wine and potato chips with a stellar view and chill music: unplugged pop. It seems that everywhere here potato chips are a common appetizer and snack appropriate for any occasion. Dinner at Cappuccino: caesar salad with langoustine brochettes, Perrier. Returned to the VRBO. Danny and Wayne went to a late night party. Spoke with and Facetimed with Jeanne and Dad. Witnessed a rain storm begin. To bed late.