)--so we will be on a 10 night Med cruise during their upcoming 2 week break instead.
We got to see so much and with no crowds! Mid day was hectic to say the least but it was a holiday and many Barcelonians had the afternoon off and were out and about. The day of books and roses was enjoyable to see though. The architechture is so unique it is not to be missed. The huge centuries old market at the end of La Rambala was fasinating to see and wonder thru and pick up a snack or just gawk at all the fresh meats, veggies, fruits and fancy candy. The city buses, the HOHO buses, the subway system (forget what it is called)where all easy and affordable to use. I too, took the obligatory Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts pictures BUT we actually stopped in a local coffee shop and enjoyed a fabulous latte with a fun little European candy on our saucer to boot. Yummo. Just the extra shot we needed to keep touring. later in the day we found a yummy hot sandwhich in a smoke free eatery (hard to do in Spain for sure). Purchased some cheap sidewalk pastel art work that will remind us of our time wondering around the gothic district and so much more. . . loved seeing all the motos and bicycles too. 
I was on the WBTA also. I agree with most of the above comments with the exception of Barcelona. I found Barcelona to be great! It felt very cosmopolitan. I haven't seen so many people in one city since the last time I was in NYC. It looked like Valentine's Day with everyone buying flowers and books to give for St. George's Day. Every corner had tables draped with cloth in the Catalonia flag colors of red and yellow strips selling either long stemmed roses or books. and everyone was walking around with the flowers they received or had purchased. Very colorful. I loved that the street corners weren't corners but cut on the diagonal. It made the cross streets very open. I live across the river from Philadelphia and 100 miles from NYC, I was impressed with all their trash and recycling containers on every street. I didn't find it dirty. I thought it was a very pretty city. It was exceptionally crowded, even our guide commented on how many people were on the streets, but I never felt afraid. Sorry you were the victim of a pickpocket. I was very worried about that happening and am thankful it didn't.
The fireworks at the dock in Barcelona were spectacular as only Disney can do it. I just wish I had thought to do the 11 day cruise also. Six days at sea was fantastic!
