Barcelona is pretty laid back. I've had a chill time here, just catching up on writing and programming and other things I've wanted to do. After some examination, Gaudi's architecture isn't my thing, but I found these guys perched on some of it, and their music very much is.

So it wasn't Gaudi for me, but the old manor at Parc Horta that was my speed. Some of it was just pretty.

But really, this is where it was at for me:

So that was grand.

But congrats, Barcelona, up until now I could say I'd never been pickpocketed, mugged, or otherwise had my stuff taken without cause. After 34 years, you've ended that streak. The bloke came up with one of those handwritten signs which he pushed in front of me. He said 'please' and I said 'no' about a half dozen times and smiled at each other both the whole time. I even noticed that he'd put the sign where it was blocking my view of my satchel. I didn't spot the missing cell phone 'til long after he'd left.

Not the best note to leave on, but there's no point staying down. Mostly, it makes me want to work harder to get back what's been lost.

And...

Sweden's already shaping up to be very friendly.

I got this eMail yesterday, titled, "Fun in Stockholm!"

Hej Samuel!

I noticed that you are coming to stay with us, great choice! Do you have plans for what to do in Stockholm while you are here? I have a suggestion!


THURSDAY: The Guided Bike Picnic

On Thursday morning I'm planning to take some guests for a bike tour around the city for a couple of hours, on our new ultra cool green bikes!

We will follow the shores of Stockholm, where people live on their boats, to places that the locals love but the tourists seldom
find. If the weather is right I would bring my swim suit, since we will be passing some great spots for a short dip. Then we
have a coffee picnic in the grass on one of my favorite islands, a little bit off the beaten track. If you want you can keep the
bike two extra hours free of charge afterwards, and go exploring on you own.

The Guided Bike Picnic starts 10.00 (10 am) costs 140 SEK and includes bike hire, coffee and traditional Swedish cinnamon buns.
(Warning: Those buns are highly addictive!)

We only have ten bikes, so it's a good idea to book in advance to make sure you get to go. Reply to this e-mail and tell me the
full name of all the people who want to join, and I will charge your booking with the cost.
I hope to see you in the sun, we'll have a great time!
Yours *****, the CBP Tour Squad

So let me see if I've got this right. You want me to join you in the park where the locals love, for a quick ride. I'm going to enjoy your buns, and after one try I won't be able to resist going back for more. You hope I'll join you, and by the way, I can pay in seks.

Have I got that right?