With its many wonderful neighborhoods, you have a chance to Explore in Barcelona. Begin with the Gothic Quarter, a unique medieval area in the heart of town, still intact, where you will lose 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.
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.
After all the adventures, it is time to Exhale. Cathedrals are not the only landmarks in the city; head to a xampanyeria or champagne bar to savor on the Spanish version, Cava. It is bubbly and even considered as good as its French counterpart.
Though there is so much more to see and Experience, what makes Barcelona so special is its people. Whether you want to be alone and regroup, or you want to be part of the magic of the city, you will find the right atmosphere just for you. You will go home Exorcised, and with a new outlook on life.
Sheila Keller - Co-wrote a book and with passion for travel decided to get into travel writing. Accepted to write travel postcards for International Living as well as a column in a Barcelona publication. Accomplished my first dream, now working on the second one: travel writing.
