Hi guys, I’m back. I promise, no more personal stories on DeanBlundell.com. As the genius Dean Blundell always says, “life is content”. So, onto the rest of the trip in Barcelona! Let’s start with the amazing people from PokerStars.

I would like to thank Moya Wilson, Amy Davenport and Sophie from PokerStars for being the most accommodating and hospitable hosts. They helped out with everything that was needed and were always available if there were any issues. From where the events were being held, to providing a fantastic experiences in Barcelona, the trip blew my mind.

Here are a few shots of the view from our fantastic dinner at the One Ocean Marina Club, as well as a delicious fish dish.

The Catamaran Trip

PokerStars set up an event for all of the media members to go out on a catamaran trip for the afternoon on the last day in Barcelona. Two catamarans and 50+ media members hit the high seas for an afternoon of fun in the sun. See video below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NxOGXsN82I&feature=youtu.be

As you can see, it was absolutely stunning! If you have been following our trip, you also know that I went for a dip in the sea. I was one of the only ones brave enough to do it. Dean also decided to do a slow-mo video of me getting out of the water. I apologize for that, no one looks flattering in slo-motion…I hope we didn’t lose viewers.

The PokerStars Media Tournament

Another perk of this trip was that we got the opportunity to play in the PokerStars Media Tournament. Originally, it was supposed to be just Dean playing in the tournament. However, your boy got too excited at the One Ocean Club when it was suggested he could also play. When it came time to the tournament, I forgot that I signed up, just to make matters worse. I hadn’t played poker in 5-years and was not down to embarrass myself, but after a pep talk from Dean I decided I would play. Long story short, I did really well (I even outlasted Dean) and was 2 people away from making the final table. Please refer to the video below for reference.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-34sjNyKIM

Dean not being able to leave Spain

Unfortunately, this was one of the roughest parts of the trip, but it was an eye opening moment for anyone travelling in the future. Consider this a PSA. Most of you followed Dean not being able to leave the country because he didn’t have his Canadian passport. You’ve heard his side of the story, but I am here to tell you my perspective.

I got the call while I was sitting poolside at our hotel. Dean told me to go to the Canadian Consulate ASAP because he ran into an issue leaving Spain. I was dressed in the most outrageous bathing suit and because this was a time sensitive matter ran down to the hotel and threw on the first shirt I saw. I looked like a hired clown. The most outrageous shorts coupled with a very eccentric bird shirt. The Canadian Consulate was confused when I showed up to say the least. The man at the door actually laughed at me. I think my clown outfit cheered Dean up a little bit. I signed his papers as his guarantor and we headed back to the hotel. Dean was NOT pleased. You know the story from there. Dean got back into the country because of an amazing and helpful tweet. It’s nice to see the power of social media in a positive light for once. Dean left and I got 3 days to explore Barcelona with my new financèe.

All in all, it was an outstanding experience and I wouldn’t change a thing. Well, maybe Dean getting back into the country without any hassle. PokerStars you were amazing and we can’t wait to come back next year(hopefully). Thank you 1000x over PokerStars.