Spring 2008, Student Arrival and Orientation Weekend.

Since arriving on Wednesday, January 23rd, BCEA´s Spring semester students have been kept extremely busy!!

After being meeted and greeted on arrival at a sunny and bright January morning at Barcelona airport, we were whisked to our hotel. We enjoyed a Welcome Dinner on the first evening, a great chance to relax and touch base with fellow BCEA students and staff.

By friday, we were into our apartments and getting to know the BCEA building ( a stunning Modernist building in the heart of Barcelona).

Friday afternoon was spent with local Barcelona guide Felipe, who gave a great tour of the Barrio Gótico. What a wonderful way to discover the Barrio Gótico´s nooks and crannies!!Felipe was a fun and extremely informative guide. We explored Barcelona Cathedral, the Cloister learning along the way their history through the ages. We strolled through the narrow and winding streets of the the Call ( Jewish district) and finished along Las Ramblas. A great introduction to the rich historical, artistic and architectural tapestry of Barcelona.

Saturday morning was dedicated to a Bus Top Tour of Barcelona. It was a fantastic way to get our bearings. We were able to hop on and off to our hearts content. Two of the most popular stop off points were Gaudí´s unfinished masterpiece,the staggering church of the Sagrada Familia and his Parc GÜell.

And to really finish off what proved to be a packed first weekend, we spent Sunday immersed in the tranquility and natural beauty of Montserrat. Just 80 kilometers from Barcelona, we were amazed by the stunning beauty of this Monastery, Retreat and Natural Park. We had the option of doing the guided tour in Spanish or English with Nuria and Marina our guides for the day. One of the highlights of the day was the Escolania, boys´choir, who filled the church with the sound of their angelic voices. It was a very powerful experience, and the views were absolutely incredible.