In order to leave France, we drove to Perpignan which is very close to the border of Spain. I was not able to find a rental car to drive over the border and drop the car in Spain, and could not get a train ticket from Toulouse that made any sense—construction on the station, strikes, ??. We found the flow! In Perpignan we met two lovely women from California who were also on their way to Barcelona. They actually took one of my bags—the road trip bag that I was reluctant to part with in case I rent a car in Spain. Traveling with Mango I had my hands full and was getting ready to just donate it all, but they offered—very kind!!

Mango’s first train—a TGV into Barcelona was a breeze thanks to the Mango backpack and incredibly kind strangers who helped me with my ridiculously heavy big bags. (I really did try to pack “light” for a 2-3 month trip but sheesh, I would have been fine with 30-40% of what I brought. Live and learn).

We took a taxi to the hotel, strolled to a delicious vegan spot for the best meal I’ve had this entire trip, and then walked to the water. A wonderful transition and landed in a good spot!