We're flying from Boston to Barcelona to kick off our honeymoon in Spain. Our plan is to stay in the city for a few days, then venture out into the countryside to explore farther afield, Shawn will drive, of course!

Cities are great and the architecture, culture, atmosphere not to mention the fine dining are all of interest to us. We've booked an apartment in the El Born neighborhood that combines a historic restoration with modern amenities including the all important A/C for the native Floridian. It features open brickwork, Catalan beam ceilings and two balconies in the heart of the historic district within walking distance of Las Ramblas and the marina. Barcelona promises to be an excellent urban landscape to explore together. Shawn will be dragged to a museum or two, but he is used to that by now.

After a few days in the city, we will rent a car and head out ot the countryside of Catalonia. Our first destination will be Costa Brava, a coastal area along the Mediterranean. There is a beautiful seaside hotel we would like to stay at with balconies from every room overlooking the sea. Costa Brava is often translated as "wild coast" and is described as a place of peaceful villages, rocky gorges, sheltered coves and some of the most amazing scenery in Spain.

At the far north of the Costa Brava we will reach Cadaques, a former fishing village where the Pyrenee Mountains meet the sea just south of the French border. It is on the edge of the Cap de Creus Penisula, a great place for walks along the coastline to hidden coves and beaches. As a local guide says, " if you are after a beach, (we'll bring sun block), crystal clear waters, some culture, long lunches, great coastal walks and fine wines, we think Cadaques is hard to beat."