Travel Spain Barcelona

Whether by boat or plane, however you choose to travel Spain Barcelona is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The weather is agreeable all year round.  There is something for every interest: museums, architecture, opera at the Liceu, nightlife, cuisine, bar-hopping and outdoor cafes.  And everything is accessible via Barcelona's extensive Metro system.

Barcelona is a city full of the wonderful architecture of Gaudi. This magical architect has placed his stamp on this city, making it one of the most unique places in the world.  Some favorites among visitors are the Sagrada Familia (Gaudi's lifework) and the Parque Guell.  Another wonderful place in Barcelona is Port Vell where you can see the Column of Columbus and the aquarium and enjoy the wonderful landscape.  And a must see is the Magic Fountain with the beautiful colors and music!

When you travel Spain Barcelona in particular, learning the "dos and don'ts" will make your trip one to remember for all the good Barcelona has to offer and not the bad that can happen if you are not prepared:

Invest in a good travel guide that includes a section on culture - you want to know about the basic things to consider, like siestas etc.

When you first arrive it is a good idea to take a tour bus. It's fairly inexpensive and you can get an overall view of everything to see in Barcelona.  Then decide what you want to see in more detail.

Consider buying a subway weekly or monthly pass - it'll pay off at the end of the day when you're too tired to walk, and it saves you a ton on cab fares.

Buy a Spanish travel book with useful, everyday vocabulary - Europeans in general are NOT very receptive when you just start talking to them in English as if you expect them to automatically speak your language when you don't know a single word in theirs. When you travel Spain Barcelona people will appreciate your willingness to communicate in Spanish even if you're not fluent.

When you travel Spain Barcelona people have certain customs.  The custom that gets many visitors in a lot of trouble is how food is served in restaurants.  If you are served food that you believe is complimentary, be sure to ask if it is FREE or not.  In Barcelona it is common to bring food to a table that has not been ordered and if you do not refuse the food or learn from the server if the food is "on the house" then it will appear on your bill.  Europeans are not as generous with food as we tend to be in the United States.  Portion sizes tend to be smaller and drink refills are not FREE and in most cases neither is the water.  It is also common in the South of Europe for additional charges for bread, dips and olives.  Do not assume anything that is given to you is free as it probably is not and you will pay the price at the end of your meal.

Barcelona is overshadowed by its more popular and well known Mediterranean neighbors France and Italy.  If you have never been to France or Italy and you have neither the time or the money to travel Spain Barcelona can wait.  But after seeing their neighbors, plan a trip to Barcelona.  It is well worth it!