Hi Everyone,
One of my favorite cities in Europe is Barcelona, there is so much creative energy and culture, it’s one of the best cities to just get lost in! If you prefer a little bit more of an agenda though, I’m hereto help.
## WHERE TO STAY
**Le Meridien Barcelonain the "Old City"**
I definitely recommend staying in the city over the beach. I know..I know, this is probably a bit shocking coming from me, but trust me, there is just so much to do, you’ll want to have easy access to all the fun, not to mention the beach is a sight seer's dream bike ride away...but more on that in a bit. Once you're settled in, strollPlaça de Catalunyato get your bearingsthen either retire back to Le Meridien's rooftop baror mix it up bycrossing the street toHotel 1898. My husband and Istayed here in 2014, soI have greatmemories ofthe roof-top bar, restaurant lounge and pool with sweeping views over the entire city. This is also another great option of where to stay! The decor and architecture very interesting and worth noting.
## ACTIVITY
SEE THE SITES BY BIKE
It isSO much fun to weave through the narrow medieval streets of old town on a bicycle. Your guide will share fun facts oneverything from Catalanculture to the myths of the city- including some hot gossip that's been whispered for centuries. Make your way tothe Barcelona’s Arc de Triomphe, which was originally supposed to be the Eiffel Tower but the people of Barcelona dislikedits design,soit never came to fruition #crazy. As you cruise down thelong open boulevards, you'llenter the famous,Park Ciutadellawhich is the 'Central Park'of Barcelona. Beautifullykept shrubs and trees line the expansive area along with a stunning fountain from the 1888's World Fair.
Then onto anothermust see -Sagrada Familia, the famous Gaudichurch has beenunder construction foralmost 100 years. It isabsolutely breathtaking and like nothing I’ve ever seen before. Guaranteed, you'lllove it so much you'll want to make some extra time in your trip just to go back for more.
Finally arriving at the beach, cycle out to the end ofthe pierby the marina. The Port Olympico beaches aresparkling in the sun and filled with peopleas youride along the esplanade-- a perfect setting for theafternoon.
(Left: Barcelona Beach Umbrellas. Right: Barceloneta Beach, Barcelona)
## WHERE TO EAT & SHOP
**Jaime Beriestain**
Okay, so I know this picture indicates a bit more of a - WHERE TO SHOP - vibe than where to eat but that's the best part! When Idiscovered this treasure, I knew I had found my actual personal heaven on earth! I was first drawn to the fabulous La-Dolce-Vita-esque tassled umbrellas on the street (it was like a moth to a flame) and upon crossing the street to examine them closer, I realized wewere outside a concept restaurant attached to an interior design store owned (and named after) a famous designer named **_Jaime Beriestain_**. If you're anything like me, you will be completely taken by the bouquets of fresh flowers, bottles of Veuve Cliquot placed along the high walls, and the giant Parisian styled bar. As mentioned, theinterior designer’s home furnishing store is attached, so everything isfor sale and there arecute vignettes of various lounge areas set up , so you're quite literally able to dine and experience the world of Jaime all in one go - SO genius. Sit near the front of the restaurant - it's definitely the kind of spot to people watch_THE_ elite society of Barcelona. Regardless of what meal you chose to have, I definitely encourage anyone going to Barcelona to head here for the encompassing experience, then afterwards shop theinterior designer’s home furnishing store for amazing gifts for friends and family back home...or just for yourself.
## DO NOT MISS
Park Güell
Before my first visit to Barcelona, this was the MOST recommended place to visit by all of my friends and social media buddies. Hop in a cabfrom your hotel, then upon arrival grab a quick coffee con leche and enter the magic that is this park.Within ten minutes you'll beexclaiming,"This is fake!" It is mind boggling that a society in the early 19th Century permitted an artist to create this enchanting world. If only other places in the world had supported the vision of such artists like Gaudi, we would all have incredible places like this to visit.
## GET OUT OF THE CITY
**BEACH TIME**! Costa Dorado is small beach town about 30 minutes out of Barcelona alongthe Mediterranean Sea. Fun fact -approximately 10 years ago a local family found and restored a beautiful property right on the beach; today is the beautifulLe Meridien Raresort, which is where I shot my series Poolside, Mediterranean.
After checking into your room, enjoy a few sips of çava whilestrolling the beautiful property, and if you're feeling extra indulgent, I highly suggest treating yourself to some relaxationat their incredible spa.
Finish your night off with dinner at the restaurant on the property named, D. O. which uses only local vegetables, meat and various other ingredients to prepare remarkable dishes.
And there you have it!Hope this helps plan or has inspired a future trip to Barcelona, to see more from this wonderful city.
xx Gray