A beber y a tragar, que el mundo se va a acabar. (Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die.) – Spanish proverb
I have heard so much about Barcelona before I saw it for real. It is Lonely Planet’s top pick for Europe and one of Mr. V’s favorite cities. I heard about things that one would normally expect of Spain — cuisine with paella in the starring role, late dinner, colorful handicrafts. I also heard about (and saw) the fascinating works and world of Antoni Gaudi in pictures (although images are never as intoxicating as the real work itself!). And the non-stop partying in La Rambla. But what you hear does not prepare you as much as real life itself. That is why traveling is a must when you hear so many beautiful things about a place. Indeed, Barcelona is as alive as one may think. Day and night, it breathes like a real person in his/her youth. As green as the first bud of spring, if I may say so poetically.
Walking along the streets dotted with churches and centuries-old buildings at day, we were lucky to find Erik Goransson sitting in front of the Catedral de Barcelona making his music…
http://youtu.be/AJiiovBHGc0
Along the Avinguda del Portal de l’Angel, we spotted this group entertaining young and old alike…
http://youtu.be/L8LVacA7nrs
We all have our own interpretation of what a table dance is supposed to be. This woman in the El Born area has her own interpretation too…
http://youtu.be/z26bomdweTk
Now I know why Barcelona is on the list of places one must see in his/her lifetime. This cosmopolitan city is there for the culture lovers, history enthousiasts and handicraft fanatics. But more than that, it is also there for those looking for other ways to interpret music. Or for those looking to party, even at daytime. #
Passport
How to get there
Barcelona Airport (Aeroporto de Barcelona – El Prat) is a major hub receiving millions of passengers every year. Statistics suggest that the biggest international traffic comes from Amsterdam, The Netherlands. From Amsterdam, one can fly to Barcelona via EasyJet, KLM, Transavia and Vueling. But if you have another choice, please don’t fly Vueling. This is the worst aircraft I have ever tried.
In and Around
Barcelona is easily visited on foot, once you are in the city. But if you must use the public transport, the metro line has a very wide network and comes very often.
Where to stay
If going with friends and for a longer period of time, you may want to try renting an apartment in Barcelona.Where to eat
Just stay out of the touristic areas and you’ll eat good and cheap. We’ve never encountered bad food in Barcelona!
Formidable! Hats off!