Barcelona, part 1

I promised to make a post about my trip to Barcelona but because the picture flow would be so unbearably huge, I decided to divide the pictures in two posts. In this first post I will go over the cultural aspects of Barcelona, shopping will follow in the later post.

It was my first time in this colorful city and I must say, if you have never been there, it's definitely worth a visit! The architecture is what Barca is most known for but I'd say food and atmosphere should come next. I'm already missing it so much; walking on the pretty streets, eating Spanish omelette and other delicious tapas with sangria at midnight, getting to know the friendly locals, and admiring all the art the city has to offer. Spain seems so relaxed and warm, and I'm not just talking about the temperature.

Shirt: Monki
Biker shorts: MTWTFSS
Shoes: MTWTFSS
Chain strap bag: Spirit Items
Studded bag: Zara
Ring: Kalevala Koru

I visited most of the sights that this city has to offer: the beautiful buildings of Gaudi, amazing parks such as Park de la Ciutadella and Park Güel, the mountain of Mont Jüic with its beautiful castle and a spectacular view over the city, and of course the Poble Espanyol - a little village that replicates the different architectural styles of Spain. It also offers the interesting art pieces pictured below. Unfortunately I didn't have time to visit the Picasso museum nor Salvador Dali's but I guess you always have to leave something for the next time, so that there will be a next time.

T-shirt: Gina Tricot / DIY slashing
Vest: Zara
Shorts: Second hand Levi's / DIY bleaching and cutting
Sandals: Dinsko
Sunglasses: Monki

Here are some useful traveling tips for those who are interested in visiting Barcelona:

- The summers are hot so wear something light with comfortable shoes: you will do lots of walking, trust me.
- Buy bottled water and bring it everywhere you go, it gets hot! The tap water is filled with chlorine and is undrinkable (I got a damn rash on my neck just from taking showers, yuck!).
- Sightseeing is fun but be aware that there are usually long queues ahead during the peak seasons. If you have time, visit the local attractions by metro (it's cheap) and about 1-2 sights/day is tolerable. If you are in a hurry, use the tourist busses. I must warn you though, they are quite expensive.
- Visit at least all the Gaudi buildings, Park de la Ciutadella and Mont Jüic. From the beaches I would recommend Icaria, it's less crowded and very clean compared to the popular Barceloneta.
- Lunch hour in Spain is from 1pm to 4pm and dinner usually starts after 8-9pm. It is not strange sight to see people enjoying dinner or tapas at midnight either.
- You must taste the tapas such as the Spanish omelette and pan con tomato. So yummy! Wine (and alcohol in general) is really cheap in Spain, so ordering a pitcher in the table is totally afforable. Eating out in general is quite affordable.
- A local told me that Barcelonians are known to be "cheap", so tipping in restaurants etc. is not mandatory. However, we did leave a little tip each time, just because the food was so damn good.
- There are pickpockets in this city but I didn't encounter any during my stay. Just be careful and don't leave your belongings unattended, and you'll be fine.
- Be aware of the siesta, it happens during 1-4pm closing some of the shops etc.
- Spanish people don't speak English too well so practice some Spanish basics before you go!