Edinburgh to Barcelona

Scott monument to the left.

Holyrood Palace - really enjoyed wandering through this old pile where HRH stays when in Edinburgh.

Arthur's seat rises behind Holyrood. Tons of peeps walking the paths to the summit. We scaled the first 30 yards like Sherpas.

The Abbey behind Holyrood - one of many Catholic abbeys that were razed by Henry VIII. This one from 13th century and earlier.

Pretty cafe on the palace grounds. The only gluten free treat of any kind ... a bag of crisps!

These young guys played to lead The Ride of the Marches, an ancient Edinburgh and borders event when the local horsey crowd plod around and declare that "the borders are intact and under no threat of invasion." Then they go to the pub. In Edinburgh, this annual event brings out literally hundreds of horses and riders, and thousands of spectators. Brought back memories of my years with the Wallaceburg Kilties.

BARCELONA

Rooftop pool and bar at our hotel. Views of the city below.

No mice or rats along the Rambla.

Salad is gluten free. Oh boy oh boy oh boy. Really good in fact, a bit like a salade Nicoise.