Salud! Exploring Barcelona, Spain

A beautiful city with lots to do and see- from exploring parks, to beaches, churches and landmarks - I really felt the energy and warmth when walking through the streets.

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Park Güell - this 12-hectare park has many paths to explore and mosaics to find. The views over Barcelona and various plants found in the park are certainly worth the 10 euro entrance fee.

La Sagrada Familia (Basílica de la Sagrada Família) - known as “the church that is always under construction”. I was told that it set to be finished in 2026, but I’ll believe it when I see it…since the construction started in the late 1800’s.

Catedral de Barcelona - a gothic style church, completed by the mid-15th century.

The world begins with every kiss - located around the corner from the Cathedral, this photo-mosaic mural was put together in 2014. Citizens of Barcelona were asked to share photos to contribute to the project and remember the events of 1714 in Barcelona.

"The sound of a kiss is not so loud as that of a cannon, but its echo lasts a great deal longer” - Oliver Wendell Holmes

Casa Batlló Gaudi- this building was designed by Anthoni Gaudi, and is located in the centre of Barcelona. I didn't check out the inside of the building, but the outside was certainly a work of art.

La Barceloneta - an area by the San Sabastian Beach, overlooking the Balearic Sea. It includes beaches, boardwalks, and narrow streets “decorated” with laundry hanging from residential balconies. I found plenty of gems along the shore - seashells, sea glass and pieces of ceramic tile.

Arc de Triomf - no not the one in Paris…this large arc is the entrance for Ciutadella park. It was wonderful to explore the park, find orange trees and listen to live music.

Mercado de La Boqueria (or St Joseph market) - tucked away between buildings, this market will be sure to please all your taste buds. I couldn’t stop myself from enjoying some delicious treats.

La Pepita - this small restaurant was buzzing all night. I was lucky to have a friend join me, who I met in Lisbon, so I wouldn't have to devour all the tapas alone. As a solo traveler I’m usually limited with how much I can order, so I was happy to be able to try out a few different menu items. The food, service, company and atmosphere was magnificent!

*Artichoke humus, cucumber, sesame salad, yogurt and mint

*Sirloin beef carpaccio, caramelized onion, fois grad shavings and pomegranate

*Iberian croquet (filled with mushrooms + topped with Iberico ham)

*Crispy pork belly with avocado crema - AMAZING

*Argentinian beef skewer, chimichurri sauce, wheat and mushrooms

+ sangria of course!

Funky Bakers - I have to shout out this little café + shop, which I found while exploring the area I stayed in. Selling many local products (kitchen gadgets, wine, craft beer, cookbooks + snacks), they also sell delicious pastries, coffee and tea.

Artém Atelier - I spotted this shop hidden between old roman ruins (yes, there are many ruins within the city, that have remained standing and additions were built on top or beside them to create "modern" buildings). The small shop creates leather shoes, purses, wallets and accessories in their workshop next door. All pieces are unique and ethically made, with the intention to magnify the essential and omit the excessive.

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Barcelona has certainly been a highlight of my trip so far and I hope to be back one day.

Flying out to Palma de Mallorca next, it’s time to explore another island!

P.S. As I was exploring Barcelona I managed to stumble upon a statue with lions, that I took a photo in front of in 2004. Not much has changed, but I am missing a balloon.