What springs to mind when you think of Barcelona?
Is it the exuberant Spanish flamingo dance experience, or the colourful exciting streets of Las Ramblas with its array of shops, restaurants, culinary delights, street artists and it’s Market de Bouqeria.
Is it the amazing architectural must-see attractions, the Sagrada Familia, history-steeped streets and alleyways of the Gothic Quarter, or the entire whimsical world of architectural genius that is Gaudi.
Or maybe it’s the freshly prepared seafood paella, sautéed calamaris, garnished potato bravas, freshly fried cherros with delightfully melted chocolate dips.
Or just simply sipping iced pina colado on Barcelonetta beach , basking in the golden Mediterranean sun, whilst unashamedly chair-dancing to Ed Sheran’s new beat ‘Barcelona Barcelona .
The land that brought us FC Barcelona and Messi ( oh yes Magnifico Messi – let’s sigh), and once hosted the 1992 Olympics.
For our EIC, it was all of the above. She recently got back from this most vibrant city in Europe and sat down with us to recount her experience. Take it away Genevieve….
When did you visit? The last bank holiday in May for a week.
Who were your travel buddies? I went with my family. My daughter was on half term break, so it’s was perfect timing to escape for some well needed cultural and culinary experience. Oh and to get that healthy dose of vitamin D!
Where did you stay? We stayed at a rather elegant and luxe hotel called Eurostars Grand Marina located by the port of Barcelona. It’s is such a great location because it’s close to both the beach area and the city centre. The metro was literally 5 mins walk and close by the big shopping mall MareMagnum.
What was the highlight of your trip? Oh there were so many , like the cultural and chaos buzz of Las Ramblas and sheer enormity of the fresh produce stores at the Merkat de Bouqeria. Then by constrast, strolling along the beach promenade along the Port Olympic area, and dining at the seafront restaurants overlooking super yachts and the Marina.
Our hotel had the most amazing views of the city from its roof terrace .
What are the main must see attraction? The Sagrada Familia is a definite must, the Barri Gothic area and if you have time Casa Milla , Parc Guell and Montjuic.
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