Essex (CVS 9) - Naval Cruise Book

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Barcelona Always a favorite with ESSEX men, Barcelona again gives its welcome as our last Mediterranean liberty port. Barcelona, in the opinion of most of the crew, was a fine port for ESSEX sailors to have as their last liberty in the Mediterranean. A city of good wines, fine foods, and pretty girls, it was a city to have a good time in, to relax in, to enioy life in, as, from every di- rection, the eye and ear were enchanted by the delight- ful sights and sounds that proclaim Spanish hospitality and color. A romantic city of glittering fountains, magnifi- cent cathedrals, flower stalls which lend their own en- chantment to the busy streets, gas lit street corners on darker than dark nights . . . the wide squares, all beckon the wanderer, and offer him the temptation of life with a smile. , lt was a friendly city, and a happy city. Barcelona, with itsivaried night life, the clicking heels of the fla- menco dancer, the plaintive music, the spicy paella, seemed a thing of indescribable mystic charm that cap- tured and enthralled. But home was close, suddenly, and thoughts of the return trip and waiting smiles of friends and family heightened anticipation, and softened the temptation to linger. ESSEX boot crew prepares to lower liberty boat at Barcelona. rw, il lx'-s. Q 9 if Q X, lf , 248

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