Barcelona, Spain is a bustling city filled with culture, beauty, and incredible food. The metropolitan area is unique and versatile where ancient clashes with modern creating so much to do and see.
The city is famous for its architect, including fascinating work by Antoni Gaudí. Park Güell and La Sagrada Familia are two incredible marvels created by this artist. Each is so unique and makes you feel as though you have transported to an imagined place. They are both worthy of a visit- just make sure to buy your tickets online before arriving!!
The food in Spain was so fresh and delicious at every restaurant I dined at. A few of my favorites were Brunch & Cake, Cosmo Cafe, Milk Bistro and Bar, Spoon Factory, The Yellow Bakery, La Broqueta, and the best tapas of the whole weekend were found at Sensi Bistro. So much leisure time is centered around the experience of a meal. I was eating so much that the common Spanish practice of a siesta was deemed very necessary…
Although the weather was unpredictable during my trip and the majority of the time I was greeted with rain, I couldn’t help but to rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. Something about seeing a new place in the open air, rather than from underground like I had been used to for the past two weeks was very refreshing. I rode to cafes and down to the beach of Poblenou. Barcelona has tons of bike renting possibilities- I used Donkey Republic but with a simple google search you can find countless, cheap, eco-friendly rides at your disposal.
My favorite corner of this city was the Gothic Quarter. With seemingly endless streets, narrow allies, and cobblestone roads, this area fulfilled all my foreign dreams. You just want to get lost here for hours exploring the adorable clothing shops, delicious food sites and captivating architecture. This area has a younger vibe and is incredibly lively. The Gothic Quarter is also home to the Picasso Museum which displays hundreds of works by the master himself. Through Airbnb, I got to get creative myself by participating in a sewing class in an Atelier studio here (https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/49836). The experience was so unique and special and I got to take home a flamenco bag that I designed myself which will forever remind me of my days in Barcelona.
Las Ramblas is another area that I found myself spending time in. A more central part of the city and definitely more touristy, Las Ramblas has countless shopping stops, restaurants, and live entertainment. Since this area attracts more tourists, be especially aware of pick pockets and keep all your belongings in sight. While I was in Spain, the tragic attack on Las Ramblas had occurred a few short weeks prior and there was a beautiful tribute for the victims near the monument where their lives had been lost. In the wake of horror, the strength of the city was shown in their love for one another.
The last night of this 14 day trip, my brother and I hiked up to the Bunkers del Carmel- takes around 30 minutes of walking from the closest metro stop. Originally a lookout point during the Spanish Civil War, these bunkers provide a nearly arial 360º view of the city. Tons of people gathered together to watch the sun set over beautiful Spain- a memory I will never forget and the best way to bring a close to this crazy, wild, beautiful trip.
Until next time, Europe…
With love,
Carly
With love, Carly 
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