Here is a review of our trip and cruise on the NCL Epic departing Barcelona May 12, 2013.

For starters be sure to get the Rick Steve's book on Mediterranean Cruise Ports. Whether you elect to take the ship's excursions, third party excursion or your own this book was invaluable with information.

Plan on spending a few days in Barcelona to get over the jet lag and visit a cool city. If your hotel is near Placa De Catalunya then you are near Las Ramblas and all the transportation options. The Aeroport bus for a little over 5 euros each for example drops you off Placa De Catalunya and then you can walk to your hotel. The metro is also available at the placa. If you are familiar with the subway in New York then you can manage the metro. The T10 card is the best deal. It is 10 rides for anybody for a month. Don't miss Sagrada Familia. Be sure to buy your tickets online in advance to avoid a very long line. Do Not miss the museum under the church. I also recommend the open top tourist buses. The one we took for one price lasted most the day and took us on three different routes. We also visited the Barcelona City History Museum which traces Barcelona's origins from Roman times. Strolling the Ramblas reminds you of Time Square. Read more