All the planning in the world can't make up for poor execution, as we (I) learned the hard way Monday. We knew it was going to be a long travel day, starting in the far eastern Luberon and ending in Barcelona. But we rose early, got on the road and seemed to be keeping to our expected schedule. The photo above is from the incredibly charming village of Cucuron, only 2 kilometers from where we stayed in Provence. That tranquil Sunday night scene erupted into the weekly market on Monday, which we stumbled upon when returning for another look before hitting the highway. The town center wraps around a manmade pond bordered by gorgeous, mature plane trees. We ate here and were joined by only a few others, although the number of chairs placed out indicated more activity in season.
This was our top find in the region. Other villages are situated spectacularly on hilltops or filled with more shops, but this place just felt comfortable, as well as being a treat to the eyes.
Anyway, after an uneventful drive to Arles we were slowed somewhat by a poor choice for lunch. Food was OK but the service was slow and that meant leaving right at the margin of our plan. The rest of the drive to the Perpignan train station also went without incident, although a last stop to top off the tank of the rental put left us only 40 minuted from estimated arrival and our train's departure. Still no sweat, or at least just a little.
Then the complications began, with a minor traffic jam on the way to the station, an unnecessary turn off the direct route and more traffic as many other travelers tried to make their trains. Down to the wire, I headed to the Avis office after dropping Charlotte and our friends at the station with the luggage. Still time to make it.
Except - the office wasn't where it was supposed to be. After a frantic drive up and down the street and asking for directions (at the Hertz office!) I pulled in, threw the keys at the attendant and headed quickly to the station, which was only across the street. Before I could get there Bill signaled it was too late. But all was not lost - there was a later train, which we were able to switch to, arriving at the Sants station about 9:30 p.m. Along the way we cracked open a bottle of wine and nibbled cheese and a baguette purchased in France, all of which helped ease the journey.
Once here, Charlotte, Winnie and Bill headed to Parc Guell, a Gaudi-designed spread filled with fanciful designs, including the mosaic tile dragon above, which seems to be chomping on a park visitor's head. Below is a shot from the shared rooftop terrace of our building, where we took two apartments. It's in the Eixample Dreta, a typical residential/commercial district with tons of eating and shopping choices nearby, as well as the la Concepcion 24-hour flower market.
The photo contrasts old and new Barcelona, with the Maristas La Immaculada church in the foreground and the modern (and odd) Torre Agbar in the background.
It feels great to be settled for a few days - and to have a clothes washer again!
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