Every time I visit Barcelona I discover something new. It offers something for everyone; it is a place to be in Exile alone while enjoying a stroll by the Mediterranean, a place to take in history and culture, or a place to just let go and have fun , while dancing on the famous Ramblas and toasting with Sangria.
With its many wonderful neighborhoods, you have a chance to Explore. Begin with the Gothic Quarter, a unique medieval area in the heart of town, still intact, where you will loose yourself in history. No map necessary (it does not help anyway), as every 14th Century archway will inevitably bring you back to the present.
A celebrated example of Gothic architecture is the Cathedral of Barcelona, built at the end of the 13th Century; admission is free and if in need to Express yourself, join the groups of people who gather at the entrance and join hands to dance Sardana, a part of Catalonian folk tradition. For a wow Experience visit Sagrada Familia (Holy Family), Architect Gaudi’s incomplete masterpiece cathedral, (begun in 1882), depicting the entire bible carved in stone described by some as Art Nouveau run wild. Go to www.sagradafamilia.org for information on tours, events, donations and more.
If this is too much Expressing for you, head to the Picasso Museum housed in two palaces on a Medieval street. It contains most of Picasso’s works arranged in chronological order giving you a sense of the development of his ideas and trends. For information on special events go to www.museupicasso.bcn.es or in Spain call 93-319-63-10. It is open Tuesdays - Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Sundays 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Looking for Excitement, a funicular will take you across the port up to Montjuic from where you will have uncomparable views of the city and perhaps a photo or two to make your ex.... jealous!!! While in the area, visit Pueblo Español or Spanish Town, built for the 1929 World Fair, it is a re-creation of the different villages that make up Spain.
If you are still in a period of Exile the promenade along the marina old port, will give you the privacy you crave while dining al fresco in one of the many restaurants. Order the tender broiled seabass, perfumed with olive oil and served with Aioli potatoes. It is a Catalonian specialty.
The rest of the day why not Exorcise. Trendy designer boutiques line the streets of the elegant Passeig De Grácia. Get yourself a new wardrobe or perhaps a new look. Everyone needs a special something for their self-esteem.
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