It was the crowning glory on close to a year in Italy, studying a master in color. We were done with colorimetry. We were done with color in design (for now); we were definitely done with Milan. We took a break in Barcelona before having to re-enter the Real World, albeit as interns at the same age Jesus was at his peak.

And Gaudi made it good again.

Like a fantasy reset button to show what’s possible with human hands and heads: the dragon rooftop house. Playful park benches. And of course a place you can worship human achievement, in what really feels like a hard garden — or jungle, still going, still growing. Whatever your idea of a higher power, standing in La Sagrada Familia makes you feel it.

I won’t elaborate on the food. But I will mention El Nacional (which opened about 10 days before our arrival at Passeig de Gràcia 24). Again, a fun, inviting way to reclaim carpark!

First time on Spanish soil, and who knows— a bit of preparation for next year’s walk!