Sunday in Barcelona, Blog #9

BYU women's basketball is spending its final Sunday on their tour through Spain in Barcelona. The team participated in Church Services, had lunch at an italian restaurant and did some sightseeing.

Tomorrow night the Cougars close out their trip with their fourth and final game. They will return to the United States on Tuesday.

Barcelona, Spain (Sunday, August 24, 2014)

Blog #9

Lexi Eaton has this Sunday’s blog update and Makenzi Morrison shares some of her experiences throughout the team's time in Spain.  

How were the Church Services in Barcelona today? How many people were there? Did you talk with or meet new people?

The Sacrament Meeting we attended was a fantastic experience. The building was small and squished in between other buildings, but it stood out with the welcoming “Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” sign and the tall steeple.

There were a lot of people in the congregation, and with our large party, there were no seats left by the time Church started. There were 10 headsets available for English speakers, and there was a great translator for us. The talks were great – about the word of wisdom, building your testimony and hope.

We were able to meet some new people after – one family from the London area who were on “holiday” camping for a few weeks. One of their sons was a returned missionary who had served in Ogden, Utah! He had his girlfriend with him, who had been baptized only a month ago. It was fun meeting them. There are always friendly people at Church. Small world too!!

What did you go see/don in Barcelona today? What was your favorite place? How does this city compare to the others we’ve seen on the trip?

After Church we were able to walk around the city and visit some amazing places. My highlight was the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia. It was a jaw-dropping, over-the-top ornate Basilica designed by Gaudi. It has been under construction for many years, since the 1800’s and is expected to be finished in 30 years. The detail was incredible. The stained glass flooded the giant building with rainbows of colors. The Gothic pictures and explanations don’t do it justice!!!

After that, some girls headed to separate parts of the city, the beach for a walk and others went to the town favorite fountain show. The fountain show reminded me of the one in Las Vegas at the Bellagio, only I enjoyed the venue here better. It was in front of a beautiful museum that was on a hill overlooking Barcelona.

The BYU women’s basketball team has been in Spain now for more than a week.  Makenzi Morrison shares her thoughts on what she’s experienced during the tour.

Tell us about some of the things you’ve been able to do and see on the trip …
This trip has been a once in a lifetime experience. We have gotten to do some amazing things like go to a bull fight, visit foreign oceans, attend Church in the Spanish language, explore breathtaking art/architecture and mingle with some great people as we learn more about this new culture.

What’s been your favorite place that you’ve visited?
I really loved my day at the beach being able to see the hectic live of everyone and seeing an unexpected sight that we hiked to. It took about 30 minutes just to hike up and on top were an old bunker and Church with a great statue of Jesus. From there you could see both sides of San Sebastian. There were beaches on the right and on the left, the waters were blue and boats were anchored. I found my happy place.

What’s your favorite food that you’ve tried so far?
My favorite food that I have had here is the bread and gelato— hands down. I love the vinegar and oil with my bread and the 22 assorted gelato flavors on every corner you walk on. When in Spain eat lots of ice cream and bread, you will be one happy camper.

What’s your favorite city that you’ve seen while in Spain?
So far, my favorite place to see has been San Sebastian. I fell in love with the beach and the city life of walking around; however, Barcelona is a close tie. I love the medieval looking architecture, the shopping and so many sightseeing opportunities. Not to mention there are more people who speak English, which allows for a much smoother journey.