Had one more day to spend in the city, visited everything I planned to, and so, I was going to take it easy now. The whole day ahead of me to stroll, take few more pictures. It was still rushing through my head that I should “go there”, or “visit that”, but that pain in my feet didn’t go away. So, did go to see few more Barcelona landmarks (more about it in tomorrow’s follow up!), but went there by metro or a bus – not by foot.
And my shoes were to blame definitely. They were nice, cozy pair, even though with (not that) high heels, the most comfortable I had, I thought. Even brought another pair of small boots, also very casual and seemingly comfortable. But, it was too warm for both and they both were too thin soled it seems, not that practical for being up and walking for 12 hours or so. That’s why I felt like walking barefoot most of the time.
Theater in La Rambla
Anyway, did my nice (slow) tour for the day and sat across Placa Catalunya for a coffee and one great piece of chocolate cake, sitting outdoors in the late afternoon sun. Enjoyed the time there, read few more things about Barcelona and it was time for the flamenco show.
Theater entrance was crowded. There was a band playing and couple of dancers who appeared before the audience one after another. Such an amazing sound! Always have the intense emotion when I hear traditional music from various parts of the world. That national feel to it makes it so heart tearing and sentimental that you just smile with excitement constantly, not sure if you would shed a tear first or laugh. Thought that this was the most emotional music I have ever heard! (Wasn’t aware of what was coming when I get to Lisbon!) Bought the band’s CD in the hall, still have it and listen to it from time to time.
Waiting for flamenco show to begin
And so, that was it, flying tomorrow, off to Portugal. Enjoying my (short) stroll towards the hotel, still aching… And then, the sign “Sale!” popped up in front of me, a shoe store, some Spanish brand I have never heard of, still open!
Went in, took a pair of leader ones (called them “flamenco shoes” ever since) and one pair of beige small boots with (not that) high heels, checking its sole because it had to be slightly thicker. Payed, got into the hotel room, took the shoes off my feet and those old boots from the closet, opened the trash can – and just threw them in!
Next: THE CITY NAMED BY HANNIBAL (10)
Full Barcelona/Lisbon SERIES
Yana
Lisbon is hilly and an amazing walking city. Good thing you found tow pair of shoes in Barcelona. Looking forward to the next installment.
WorldGlimpses
Oh yes, it was a smart idea to take new shoes before Lisbon. 😉 You are welcome to stop by again and read the follow ups, thanks!
Halef
LOL – as a male runner, I always travel around with my running shoes on, so I can’t relate to your stories :). Even as a gay man, I don’t really care about heels (stereotype) – but glad that you finally figure out that not all shoes are created equal. I attended a few flamenco shows in Seville, and didn’t see any in Barcelona, but I assume that they are similar. You need to check out Fado in Portugal – a similar (folk singing) show that is supposed to be good for the souls!
Travel safe (and comfortably)!!
WorldGlimpses
Hehehe, but you have to admit that the story has made you laugh. 😉 Oh, and fado… if flamenco made me ache, fado has made me “bleed”! Loved it in Lisbon. Thanks! 🙂
Sandy N Vyjay
Yes it really is a relief when you remove the shoes that have been troubling you and step into a new one. It has happened many a times when the shoes become more of a burden than a protection, Especially after extensive walking, if the shoes are not appropriate, it is really agonizing. I can understand how you felt getting the new ones!
WorldGlimpses
It was just a nice story. 😉 It so happened that I had to walk around Barcelona lengthwise and crosswise, and it didn’t come to me until the end of my visit that I should actually change those shoes. And when I did, just threw them in a trash can! 😀 Thanks!
maniniexp
Ouch! Glad you found some better shoes. What a great experience that flamenco show was. I’m so excited to do that during my upcoming Spain trip.
WorldGlimpses
That was my first flamenco live, so you can just imagine my excitement! Was just stunned by the music. 🙂 You’ll have some great time, enjoy your trip!
philip
Finding a good pair for shoes for travel that is comfortable yet not bulky is has been a struggle for me. How easy is for non spanish speakers to navigate the metro system in barcelona? looks like you enjoyed the trip really well
WorldGlimpses
Oh yes, I had some great time in Barcelona, enjoyed every minute of it. Even the whole story revolving around those shoes! 😀