BARCELONA

With the mad rush for Christmas just around the corner we resolved to embark on a last excursion abroad and decided upon Barcelona. We were welcomed with blue skies and temperatures in the 20's so were able to dust off our flip-flops one last time.

The architecture of the city is stunning with ornate iron balconies and carved stone facades at every turn.

We fell in the love with the Gothic Quarter - narrow winding streets with colourful bars and restaurants full of lively music and fabulous tapas, tucked behind discreet doorways.

This amazing shop with its beautiful wooden curved shelving displaying everyday food products was just one of many that caught our eye; what a lovely place to do the shopping!

Of course no trip to Barcelona would be complete without visiting Park Guell designed by Antoni Gaudi. It was intended to be a park with houses scattered within it but the business venture never took off and was shelved. A show home where Gaudi lived can be toured but the best part for us was his stunning bench decorated in a mosaic of broken tiles and in his signature organic style.

Barcelona is a very stylish city but in a relaxed 'not trying too hard' kind of way, it was wonderful to wander through the streets and spot something of interest every time. There was plenty that we didn't get to see however so a return visit is on the list for the future - watch this space!