Barcelona 4

It was Catalunya National day today which would've been yesterday. Everything was closed so it was off exploring again. We tried to keep away from the crowds as they were not only celebrating but also protesting against the Spanish government as Catalan  people want independance. I think every person was on the streets with many of the roads closed. The government has banned the up coming vote in a couple of weeks. The referendum is being conducted by the Catalunian government and they have been warned not to go ahead with the vote. The Spanish government has said the vote will not be recognised and has told police not to assist in the process or face being reprimanded. Several printing outlets have been raided by police and ballot papers seized. Besides that we walked a lot around the beach area and got a little too much sun.

 

The market area was nice but there are a lot of what the locals call street  vendors. They are constantly on the hop as the police keep chasing them out of the main areas. I spoke to one police man who said they can get a bit violent  as there are sometimes ten of them against 2 police.These are generally African men trying to sell cheap souvenirs and can be quite annoying as they place themselves and their goods on the ground which can be quite hazardous as people try to get past them. It is illegal for people to buy off them and signs were erected warning people not to purchase or the buyer could be fined €60.  All very interesting.
At one stage in the main area of La Rambla there were about 50 moving to the station obviously to go elsewhere.

Impressions of Barcelona: It was picturesque, has good beaches close to the city thus providing easy access for its residents. It appears to be quite relaxed with the populace heading out for dinner, drinks and walks in the late evening. The weather is very good and the people seem to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. We noticed that the beaches have a number of topless and even saw a naked older man sunbaking and a dear old topless granny and old fellas in speedos. Anything goes in sunny Barcelona.Of further interest, there are lots of little dogs out and about with their owners and they are allowed into restaurants and shops.
Also need to mention that they love their soccer team Barca.
Tomorrow we by head off to Nice and the French Riveria.