An Introduction to Barcelona

BARCELONA! (BARTHELONA) to the locals, try not to spit on the person opposite you whilst saying it. This is a wonderful city, full of colour, excitement, tradition and tourists. Visit Barcelona and capture the real essence of Spain. This city has truly amazing architecture, of course led by Gaudì, great bars, culture round every corner and beautiful beaches nearby. Staying in Barcelona was an unforgettable experience, offering travellers the possibility of a non-stop itinerary or time to relax in the many parks and gardens and spend days sprawled on the beach.

It’s easy to adjust to the Spanish lifestyle; free mornings usually spent indoors, recovering from the night before I’m guessing. However it is a good idea for tourists to make an early day of the sights, there is plenty to see. The Parc Guell, Sagrada Familia, Catedral de la Seu, Plaça de Sant Jaume (with weekly Catalan dancing) and Monjuic hill should get you started and keep you busy.

Once ready for recuperation there are an excellent array of hot lunches available. You will find many restaurants in Barcelona offering a menu board with 3 course specials for the day, often including bread and wine, ranging from a mere 5euro to about 15. This is a perfect time to experience the Spanish delights of Paella, Gazpacho, Spanish Pork Chops, delicious salads and vegetables not to mention the array of fresh seafood available. Spanish culture has shops closing around midday and not opening again until late afternoon. This time off is used to eat and rest, its advised you do the same, because there is always a long night in store. Don’t worry those afternoon naps soon become addictive!

If you’re looking to party or are just a bit of a night owl, you will be sublimely happy in Barcelona. Hostels here have curfews catering for the Spanish lifestyle so there should be little concern of lock- outs. There is always something happening in the evening and dinner is customarily had around 11pm. Barcelona is the host of many great bars, ranging from traditional Spanish style to funked-up alternative spots and of course the disco, pop-music crowd will find something to please. Do beware of organized pub crawls, the sangria can be truly lethal and vodka shots are sure to keep rolling. This is usually all included in the price of your ticket, but don’t feel to pressured to get your money’s worth as it can become very messy!! Along the Ramblas you will find many expensive restaurants and a lot of people watching going on, if you wander just out of this area you fill find more reasonable prices and helpful service. A great place to experience tapas in the evening is in Barri Gòtic, and those on a budget take note you can make a meal of eating tapas. A cheap way to eat, drink and be merry.

Once familiar with the immediate areas of Barcelona, why not take a short day trip to some surrounding areas. Monserat is of particular significance to the Catalan people. This interestingly shaped rock mass houses a monastery and caves to explore. If your lucky you will hear the voices of local teenagers and adults floating through the mountains, whilst sitting on the steps of the monestry, singing Spanish songs to the accompaniment of guitar.

Barcelona also provided the joy of free internet cafés, so enjoy some Spanish coffee and book your next hostel online or simply inform family and friends you are safe and happy and haven’t had your bag snatched; it should be noted Barcelona is home for some of the best bag snatchers in the world, so hold on tight. However, it can also happen that a solo female traveller, a sure target, does not experience a hint of trouble.