We passed through stunning neighborhoods showcasing grand mansions with abundant assortments of striking flowers everywhere. You could smell the scents of a wide variety of blooms. Our extensive tour for the day led us to the Guggenheim Museum. While there were numerous visitors, it seemed the architectural marvel of the building, crafted from titanium and resembling a ship or perhaps Noah’s Ark, captivated many. Personally, while I appreciated the contemporary art within, it didn’t resonate as deeply as the classic masterpieces from yesteryears. Even so, the contemporary art motifs were undeniably intriguing. An additional notable highlight was a towering floral sculpture shaped like a dog at the top of the museum stairs, reportedly valued at an astounding 37 million dollars. The industrial city of Bilbao is the de facto capital of the Basque region, famed for its culture, skyscrapers and the striking ship- shaped Frank Gehry–designed Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, which sparked significant revitalization when it opened in 1997. Tour the city’s many pintxo bars and browse the stalls at the lively La Ribera Market whose origins date back to the 14th century. Spain’s famous La Rioja wine region is a full-day trip from the port, with plenty of time for wine tasting.
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