Barcelona - Mercat de la Boqueria

I have been fantasising about visiting these markets since reading that many food writers viewed the Mercat de la Boqueria as the best markets in Europe. Big call.

We visit on a bustling Friday morning when all of Barcelona seems to have squeezed under its roof.

The fruit at this stall and the freshly squeezed juices were like manna from heaven. We especially loved the fresh coconut juice.

Of course no market in Spain is complete without rows and rows of jamon.

Serrano ham is the most prized. The free range pigs are fattened on acorns giving the cured meat a deep nutty flavour.

Pity I had no carry-on room to take one of these back to Paris. But I did manage to squeeze a few slices on board.

These little piggies went to market .... but didn't come home.

These snack-size saucissons were delicious and dry.

The cheeses we sampled included goat, sheep and the famous manchego.

Being close to Northern Africa means a wonderful supply of dried fruits and nuts

The fruit displays were breath-taking

And how about all these varieties of tomatoes?

Would have loved to have made up a fresh salad with these beauties!

And to finish your meal how about a cappucino chocolate?

or maybe some pebble toffees?

Folks, I've found my retirement village!!!