I really appreciate all the responses; in checking current airfares, NYC-MAD is significantly cheaper than NYC-BCN so I will be taking the train from there at this point. Of course, I will put in fare alerts for both cities and note the advice for BCN if that changes.

I'll be hooking up with a tour of religious travelers/singers and take advantage of their guides and bookings but would appreciate any suggestions for can't-miss places to eat.