I’m staring through the train window still trying to grasp that I am here. We are somewhere in the Catalonian country side. The sky is brightening after a heavy rain storm just passed through. The mountains tower in the short distance and there are patches of wild poppies everywhere. Their bright red hue is a stark contrast against the lush green grass.

These are the words I wrote while heading back to Mataró after a lovely day spent in Girona. Girona is about an hour North by train, but set away from the coast. The city was also the most recent setting for Games of Thrones Season 6!

The architecture was incredible. I walked through the cathedral looking at the ornate paintings and altars. There were so many jewels, gold, and silver encrusted into everything. While photography wasn’t allowed inside, it definitely was a picture that will stay in my mind. A side note: I think it’s funny how keen I am to get inside a medieval church in another country, but rarely go in a normal one at home.

I spent the day walking around the city with most of the time spent in the Call Jueu, which is an area where Jewish families settled during the 12th century. The streets were small, but full of color and life.

Of course, I stopped by a little cafe and had a Spanish omelette (not as good as the ones at home) with pan il tomate (bread with olive oil and tomato rubbed on it). The cafe was interesting and I could easily see myself spending hours in there. The building housed a little library as well, so patrons could eat, drink, and buy a book. What a great concept!

Shortly after I ate, the sky turned black and began thundering. I knew I didn’t have much time before the rain came, so I headed back towards the station. I got caught in the downpour, but luckily packed an umbrella as Ingrid had suggested. I stayed in another cafe, drinking coffee and eating a pastry until I could hop on another train.

Sunday, I walked about a minute away from the house to watch los castells (human castles) in the plaza. These human castles are a tradition in Catalonia and are performed at many festivals. I grabbed a spritz to cool down and watched everyone climb into towers. After, I headed to the beach (surprise) where I spent the rest of the day reading until my family returned from their camping trip in the mountains.

Oh and to play catch up, Friday, Ona and I went to La Gorfreria so I could try one for the first time. It’s like a waffle with toppings. I had chocolate and whipped cream on mine and Ona just had chocolate. It was a tasty way to end the week and I may or may not have had another one on Sunday.