Hi Wonderers,
I made it to Spain with child in tow. It was a first flight with him/her, and s/he rocked it. On the flight, you can see the dread in people’s eyes sitting next to a baby. At the end, though, I got compliments of what an amazing flyer. S/He is my new flying partner for life.
Once settled, the family and I walked around the tourist street, La Rambla. Compared to my trip 5 years ago, I must say the street looked more grungy than I remembered. However, I was excited for my family to experience it for the first time.
I personally think 4-5 days is enough in Barcelona, but we spent about a week. With the extra days, I was able to see more (even history museums, which are NOT my cup of tea). Everyone got to see and experience what they wanted.
Below is what we saw and ate, I need no particular order. I will post pictures without my child since I haven’t decided when and how social media will work for her/him.
- Artisa: One of the few looking natural Gelato places.
- Guell Tapas Restaurant: Great paella and accommodating staff.
- La Tasqueta de Blai: Self-serve pinxtos place that is better than the pinxtos in San Sebastián in my opinion.
- Pastisseria Hofmann: Delicious pastries, especially that marscopone croissant.
- San Sebastián Beach: Besides the constant massage and blanket solicitors, it was a nice place to relax.
- Montjuiic: The best place for views, and the castle at the top was pretty cool.
- Gothic Quarter: Stark difference from the other Barcelona neighborhoods and lovely old architecture.
- La Sagrada Familia: Last time I was there I didn’t like the inside of the church, but I have changed my mind.
- Parc Guell: Beautifully designed park with lots of unique curvy lines and mosaic buildings.
- Casa Batllo: I went back, because I really liked the house. We also returned for the outdoor light show.
- Museum of the History of Catalonia: I actually liked this museum, because you can actually touch some of the items and interact with the displays.
- Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art: The most confusing museum I have ever been and outside were a lot of sketchy (some naked) people.
- Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium: The main stadium for the 1992 Olympics.
- Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya: Another beautiful museum, especially the forward facing facade.
- Jardins de Joan Maragall: One of the many gardens in Montjuiic. I don’t know how they are able to maintain them all so well.
- Ciutadella Park: A huge city park where people go to relax.
- Mercado de la Boqueria: A place with many stalls and options for little on-the-go bites.
- Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona: Starightforward strip leading yo a welcoming arch.
- Xerta: One michelin star for a filling meal. We got the 45 euro (cheapest) meal, which was more than enough.
We walked to other neighborhoods and attractions. I can’t remember them all, other than Catedral de Barcelona, Guell Palace, and the hospital where Gaudí died. I got so many steps in that week.
It was tiring, but seeing how everything was new made me love the experience more. Barcelona has a special place in my heart because 5 years ago, I got my job offer while I was in Barcelona.
Dare I say, with each visit to Spain, I am a step closer to wanting to live here.
Ciao,
Amy
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