Top 10 most Romantic Hotels In Barcelona

Whether you live in Barcelona and want to take your 'media naranja' (Spanish for soulmate) for a romantic escape or you live somewhere else in the world and are drooling over the city, this blog is for you! Romance is always in the air here. Without further ado, here is our list of the most romantic hotels in Barcelona. Also, you can't miss our Free Ebook on the Top 25 Places to Take a 1st Date in Barcelona.

#10 Grand Hotel Central

Who’s ready to drink champagne and eat strawberries?? I know I am! The Grand Hotel Central is placed in the heart of Barcelona. The five-starred hotel is built with such a style and elegance only few of us could dream about! So if you’re looking for a luxurious stay in romantic and beautiful surroundings this would be a good place to start! The hotel has a perfect location near the Gothic district where you can stroll down the streets and enjoy the singing street performers and beautiful architecture. Via Laietana, 30, 08003 Barcelona

#9 Casa Fuster

Enjoy this super luxurious hotel in one of the best shopping streets in Barcelona! Located in Passeig de Gracia the hotel contains 150 rooms decorated in warm and natural colors. The royal atmosphere and the amazing hotel restaurant combined will give you an outstanding visual and gastronomical experience. If you’re in the mood to impress your loved one this is the place you have to go! Oh.. did I mention that Woody Allen usually stays in this hotel when he’s in town? Passeig de Gracia, 132, 08008 Barcelona

#8  Ohla Hotel

A beautiful hotel with gorgeous avant-garde interior design! It’s located in the center of Barcelona with an outstanding terrace with room for sunbathing or maybe to enjoy a delicious breakfast. The hotel’s restaurant (which by the way was awarded with a Michelin star!?) specializes in Tapas and Platillos and they promise you and extraordinary food experience beyond your imagination! Oh yes.. This is an amazing spot for romance! Via Laietana, 49, 08003 Barcelona

#7 Neri

An amazing hotel located in the heart of the old Jewish quarter. Oh Yes! The building is set in two historical aristocratic houses from the XII century. The façade has been preserved and decorated with sophisticated interior design. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings, sensual aromas and relaxing music while you adore the company of your loved one. Don’t forget to explore the hotels amazing restaurant, where you can taste the delicious products from the season. Great hotel and a great location if you want to explore Barcelona! I want to live here! Carrer de Sant Sever, 5, 08002 Barcelona

#6 Hotel Alma

Imagine a stylish 5-star hotel in the middle of Barcelona with one of the best views in the city, amazing service and phenomenal food….. Sounds good hu? Well then you wouldn’t be disappointed about Hotel Alma. 72 amazing rooms, Spa/wellness facilities and even a gym!? Everything you’ll need to enjoy yourself and your partner! Carrer de Mallorca, 271, 08008 Barcelona

#5 Arts Hotel

Did you ever wonder how it would be like to drink champagne on a cloud? Well this is as close as it gets! Arts Hotel is a humongous luxury hotel which houses 483 rooms with exceptional panoramic view over the city! They have six different restaurants and bars to choose from with the delicious taste of Catalan Cuisine. Oh and in case you’re bored in your huge marshmallow soft bed with State-of-the-art entertainment systems, you could visit the hotels beautiful, relaxing Spa (I’ve heard they give birth to angels in there!?). If you’re not already floating on a pink sky you definitely will after a stay on this amazing hotel!

Calle Marina, 19-21, 08005 Barcelona

#4 Abac

If you’re looking for quiet and intimate romantic hotels Barcelona, this is the place for you! Super discreet design and atmosphere that will make sure you’ll have the stay of your life. With only 15 elegant and exclusive rooms the hotel staff guarantees you their full attention and they will provide you with whatever you need. The surroundings is natural and sophisticated, you’ll definitely be able to relax to the full here. Their amazing restaurant received no less than 2 Michelin stars and was nominated the best restaurant in Catalonia 2011! Wauw! I’m ready to go are you?

Avinguda del Tibidabo, 1, 08022 Barcelona

#3 Hotel W

So close to the beach you’ll get wet shoes! Located on the beachfront and super close to the most popular beach area Hotel W really makes you feel like you’re in the center of it all! 473 fabulous rooms with one of Barcelona’s most amazing see views. This hotel is for you who like the dynamic pulse of the city and wants to explore it’s possibilities, party and have fun! The hotel is packed with different on going events and they have the most amazing sky bar! What’s not to like?! Plaça de la Rosa dels Vents, 1, 08039 Barcelona

#2 Gran Hotel La Florida

Regarded as one of the top urban luxury resorts in the city this hotel will not let you down! A spectacular hotel full of beautiful art nouveau style interior design and a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. If you want to enjoy the city to the full but still need a place to relax and calm your senses, this is definitely the place for you. Discover the amazing taste of Catalan, Spanish and Mediterranean gastronomy in the hotels splendid restaurant or take a drink or a refreshing cocktail with your love in the bar. Awesome hotel, perfect for couples, definitely worth a visit! Carretera de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, 83-93, 08035 Barcelona

#1 Hotel 1898

Discover a hidden gem in Barcelona! What was once housing a Philippines tobacco company is now one of the coolest romantic hotels in Barcelona. By preserving the buildings historical features and mixing it with the benefits from the 20’est century, this is truly a gorgeous place to be! Being the only colonial-style hotel in town this amazing place will not only bring you on a travel through history, it will also most likely make you want to stay for the rest of your life. Spectacular surroundings, heated pool, Oriental Spa and wellness center, great service and great food!

La Rambla, 109, 08002 Barcelona

Have you had the change to visit one of these great hotels? Or do you maybe have some recommendations on where to stay in Barcelona? Please feel free to drop a comment below!

Top 7 Best Rooftop Swimming Pools in Barcelona

As you know, summer is the moment to enjoy the sun around beaches, swimming pools and so on. What do you think about getting close to the sun and fully enjoy it ? How about experiencing one of the rooftop pools in sunny Barcelona.
Summer is coming really fast in Barcelona, and the temperature is rising each and every day. As awesome as that is though, the hot and stifling humidity of Barcelona's climate will drain out your energy quicker than you realise. What you need is a refreshing swim and cocktail while enjoying the breathtaking views of one of the oldest cities on the Mediterranean (or possibly a perfect day at the beach).  That's exactly what this blog will offer you, our top 7 rooftop pools in Barcelona. (Note that most of the hotels with rooftop pool and bar in barcelona are also open to the general public not only the guests).

Ohla Hotel- Recommended rooftop pool

One of the most special Rooftop pools in Barcelona is on the terrace of Ohla hotel, unique for its glass-sided pool. From there you can chill in the cool splash of water and enjoy the view ancient Gothic quarter, since the hotel is located in the heart of Gothic quarter, Born and L’Eixample neighborhoods. You can also see the famous Barcelona cathedral and the church of Santa Anna from there. One minus point is that the lounge area is quite small and there are only about 10 sunbeds, not much for a hotel of 74 rooms capacity.

Barcelona Princess Hotel

This 4-stars hotel has two swimming pools. The smaller triangle-shaped one on 3^rd floor with the view to Forum and Museu Blau and the other with a solarium located on the top of the building, on the 23^rd floor. It has a gorgeous view over the sea and along the beach. You wouldn’t want to miss the sunset landscape from here!

Hotel Duquesa de Cardona

Duquesa de Cardona hotel’s pool is among the smallest in our Rooftop swimming pool Barcelona list, however  its sundeck and spectacular view to the harbor really make up for this. The deck and pool are located on 6^th floor, I must say the view from here to port vell harbor during the evening is unforgettable. Tip: from the deck, look at your right to see the Columbus Monument and Barcelona’s old customs building.

Hotel America Barcelona

Located on a quiet corner in the Eixample neighborhood, Hotel America Barcelona offers a wide terrace swimming pool. The deck is mainly designed by two materials: light wood and thin metal, which create an elegant yet relaxing vibe. Beside the pool is a unique octagonal Jacuzzi which can  fit up to 6 people, a perfect place for resting up after a long day of sightseeing. But hey, don’t forget to enjoy the biggest Barcelona neighborhood surrounding you: L’ Eixample.

H10 Marina Barcelona

Compared to other rooftop pools in Barcelona H10 Marina hotel has a relatively small lounge (the space between sunbeds and the pool is only enough for one person passing at a time). To compensate, the view from the top of the building gives you a fully luxurious experience, with a small bar in the corner, where you can chill with a mojito or just simply tap beer. In front of you is a broad view of Port Olympico and the so called Barcelona twins towers: Torre Mapfre and Arts hotel building.

The Mirror Barcelona

Overall this hotel’s pool is quite compact as hotel space was utilized thoroughly. But you won’t feel uncomfortably cramped believe me. On the contrary, by placing it as close to the building’s edge as it can be, this rooftop pool will show to the new level of chic of Barcelona. From there you will be able to see the 27-floor skyscraper Banco Sabadell Atlántico.

NH Calderon

One of the best places in our Rooftop pool Barcelona list for swimming and refreshment, I would say. The outdoor swimming pool on top of this building overlooks almost every famous landmark of the city: La Sagrada Familia, Montjuic palace, Torre Agbar. The hotel spends its whole terrace on a large swimming pool; in return they have to sacrifice the bar lounge. Still worth it, IMO. If you enjoy the view from above, you may want to check out our list of rooftop bars in Barcelona. See it here Enjoy! T.Vu

Driving in Barcelona: Important things you want to know

Just because you aren't a resident of Spain doesn't mean you can't drive in Barcelona or another city in the region! If you want to come to barcelona with your car or rent/buy a car in Barcelona, you need to have with your actual driving licence and your passeport, a valid insurance (resident country insurance that can cover you in Spain), and the registration documents of the car. In order to avoid being bother by authorities and quietly enjoy your stay, Here are a quick few things you should know about requirements for driving in Barcelona:

License ID-

US citizens:

• A valid driver's license from any state may be used
• You must also obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). IDP's are basically a copy of your native license copied into various languages, and they can be purchased through entities such as AAA for around $10.
• Both ID cards must be carried with you at all times! Fines have been known to range from 250- 500 €!
• After a period of six months, you are required to apply for a Spanish driver's license and go through the same exams and classes as locals. You are now driving as a residence, so you need to pay the special vehicle tax called " impuesto municipal sobre circulación de vehículos".

EU and EEA visitors:

• Driving in Barcelona is easy! Your country license may be used in Spain until it is expired.
• Carrying a passport is recommended.
• You must register with travel authorities within six months becoming a resident of Spain and obtain a Spanish driver's license as well. You will drive as a citizen, so you have to pay the special vehicle registration tax (impuesto municipal sobre circulación de vehículos).

NB: After getting your spanish driving licence, your home driving licence will be returned to the issuing authority of your country. So do not be afraid if spanish authority don't give you back your home licence after submitting your application documents.

Insurance-

Third party insurance is required for all driving in Barcelona and other cities in Spain!

Immatriculation-

In case you came from your country with your own car and you want to stay in Spain for a couple of months or more, you need to matriculate your foreign car on Spanish plates. You can do it within 2 months from the day of the entry of the car.

Road Regulations-

Items required on/in vehicle

• 2 EU-approved red traffic triangles
• 2 reflective vests to be worn in incidents
• spare headlight bulbs and tools to replace
• spare tire and necessary tools
• EU license plates with country of origin or sticker

Few traffic rules of thumb

• Cars overtake and pass others from the left
• Cars approaching from the right have the right of way
• Cars in traffic circle have the right of way
• Cell phone use is not permitted while driving. Fines are starting from 90€ and up to 300€
• All passengers must wear a seatbelt
• Children under 10 years old must sit in the back

Speed Limit and Alcohol

The speed limits for both cars and motocycles are:

• Inner town: 50 km/h
• Country road: 90 km/h
• Clearways: 100 km/h
• Highways: 120 km/h

According to the weight, there are some particular rules for trailers, RVs, and mobile homes.

• RVs and Trailers <0.75 tons : up to 80 km/h on country roads, 70km/h on roads out of towns and up to 90 km/h on highways
• RVs and Trailers > 0.75 tons: up to 80 km/h on highways
• Mobile homes < 3.5 tons: up to 80 km/h on country roads, 90km/h on clearway and up to 100 km/h on highways
• Mobile homes > 3.5 tons: up to 80 km/h on country roads, 90km/h on highways

On the Alcohol matter, the limit proportion in the blood is 0.5 percent. But for people whose the licence aged less than 2 years, the limit is fixed at 0.3 percent.

Breakdown and Accident help

The Spanish authorities hate when private cars are towing others. It's forbidden! If your got an accident or a breakdown, it is mandatory to wear a reflective jacket that must always be in your can and wait for the staff in charge of the help. In case of accident, you have to notify the police through 112. For more information visit Spain's Traffic Agency (Spanish). Safe driving in Barcelona! -Ty

Help For Homeless In Spain - Vicki Neela Kou

Vicki Neela Kou is an ordinary woman who decided to follow her dream of moving to Spain and dedicate her life to provide help for homeless. Here's a story on how a small effort can make a big difference!
There are estimated to be 3 million people in Spain sleeping in the streets, in shacks, shelters or in uninhabitable buildings. The number of homeless people is increasing every year and the problem is bigger than ever. While no one really knows how many homeless people there are in the Spain, the number is an estimation based on the statistics from the population register and different help organizations. It seems that around 30-35.000 people are forced to live on the street. Different organizations try as much as possible to provide help for the homeless, such as food, shelter and other necessary supplies. The help is well needed but it’s still hard to help everyone and that's why they need all the help they can get. Small donations can make a huge difference to some of these people! Vicki Neela Kou is one of those who try to make a difference!
Vicki lived in Denmark with a successful business as a horse masseur. In 2000 Vicki where involved in a serious accident, a horse clung to her shoulder and threw her up against a wall and she suffered from a serious whiplash, which unfortunately caused lasting problems. After the accident Vicki could no longer be as productive as she wanted to be. She was forced to give up her business, sell her farm and beloved horses. The accident had far greater consequences than she had first assumed and her health was declining. In 2006 she makes the big decision to leave Denmark and move to Spain as the temperature and the lower humidity seemed to be much better for her health. Spain helped Vicki to recover and overcome her condition, although she still had to live with the fact that her condition was permanent. But now that Vicki was feeling better she started to wonder if she could give something back to the Spanish community. She always had great interest for people and felt eager to help were it was possible for her. Therefore she began to support different help organizations. One of them is called “Malaguenos de Noche”, a help for homeless people which provides food and supplies. Malaguenos de Noche gives away more than 1700 meals a day for people in need.

Art By Savannah

Vicki wanted to do provide more help for homeless, so in 2014 she started a project called Arm1Charm. By creating gorgeous bracelets that people would want to buy, she could use the profit to help different help and rescue organizations . She created a group on Facebook where she could sell her bracelets under the name "Art By Savannah" and gather people with interest for charity.
With over 300 members and her strong ability to connect with people, Vicki is getting more and more successful with her project and she’s regularly contacted by people who need her help and advice on help for homeless and other charity projects. Vicki has a dream to open up her own life center where people can come and help each other with the passion and knowledge they have. ”Together we are strong” Vicki Neela Kou.

Everyone Deserves a Chance

In 2009 Vicki published a book called Type 1, in this book she explains the different types of people and their behavior, in this book she also encourage people to embrace their differences and welcome their uniqueness and understand that they are amazing just the way they are, rich, poor, house owner or homeless. Vicki gives lectures on these specific matters and reminds us how important it is to leave room for each other, accept and respect one and other especially ourselves. The whole purpose with all this hard work is not only for Vicki’s own sake, she wishes that the profits from her book and lectures will be put in a special project, a project that will help people further in life and give them a second change. Vicki believes that every person in this world has something to give; even the ones without jobs or home! it’s important for her that each and every one of us embraces our differences and makes the best of what we have. Her big dream is to open a life center where unfortunate people with different stories and experiences can help and support each other and overcome any obstacles they may have. Especially elderly people with lots of knowledge and wisdom to pass on to youngsters from troubled or none existing homes. Vicki is a good example that you shouldn’t be afraid to pursue you’re dream and a small effort can mean the world to others. If you liked this blog you should check out this blog Animal Rescue. Feel free to drop a comment below if you have any advice or recommendations on how to find/support help for homeless organizations!

Trendy and posh, funky yet chic- these are just a few of the words that can be used to describe one of the most treasured neighborhoods in Barcelona- El Born.  From designer boutiques to hip nightclubs, El Borne is THE place in Barcelona to see and be seen at any time of day and all year round. Just minutes away from the chaos of Las Ramblas and the crowded coastline of Barceloneta, El Borne is a sanctuary for tourists and locals alike.
The centerpiece of this historical neighborhood is the famous Passeig del Born. Historically, this tree-lined street once functioned as the epicenter of all public festivities in Barcelona, ranging from jousting tournaments and holiday celebrations to the burning of religious dissenters during the Spanish Inquisition. Don’t worry though- these days you’ll need only to concern yourself with dodging the light-up-propeller-helicopter-toy-things (you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when you see them for yourself) as they fall from the sky back into the hands of the men who will try to sell them to you for a euro just as their toys smack you in the head. No thanks buddy, I think I’ll spend my euro on the Estrella beer that your friend is trying to sell me instead.

Passeig del Born by Day The great thing about Passeig del Born is that there is literally ALWAYS something to do here. Although the ambiance during the day is much more laid back before the dark sets in and the party begins, some sort of excitement can be found around every corner.  The benches on Passeig del Born are undoubtedly one of the best places in Barcelona to sit and enjoy some gelato or a slice of pizza, and “discretely” stare at the well…interesting.. crowd of people as they pass by.
Another one of my favorite places on Passeig del Born to partake in the extreme sport of people watching would have to be the ledge along the “Fossar de les Moreres," a Catalan monument directly across from the Santa Maria del Mar church. While you’re at it, take in a bit of history by reading the poem enscribed on the torch of eternal flames.  It's dedicated to the soldiers who defended Catalonia against the invasion of King Felipe V's troops in 1714, and written in three languages if like me, you’re amongst the unfortunate, non-Catalan speaking crowd. Time will fly by as you take part in the fun of “observing” while simultaneously being “observed” by other El Borne visitors. Before you know it, the sun will be setting over Passeig del Born, as it transforms into it’s nighttime alter ego.

Passeig del Born by Night

There is absolutely no better place to be in the city as the afternoon fades to evening, than sitting at one of Passeig del Born’s numerous outdoor cafes, enjoying a Clara or glass of wine and chatting with friends or that special someone (if you’re so romantically inclined).  Although I’m cheating because it’s not technically ON Passeig del Born, the outdoor tables at the Bubo Wine bar, located right in front of the Santa Maria Del Mar Church, are best location to do just this. Watch the street performers- from guitar and violin players to salsa dancers- as they display their craft against the beautiful backdrop of the immense basilica church that lights up the sky at night. As the sun sets, you’ll slowly notice the bars, restaurants, and the street itself filling up with people. Sunday through Monday you can find groups of friends sitting or standing in groups right in the center of Passeig del Born, talking, laughing, and drinking. The energy is electric on even the slowest of summer nights, as Passeig del Born offers a little something for everyone.

SuiteLife TV's Video Profile of Passeig del Born!

Passieg del Born “Must See’s” Now that you’ve got an idea of what you can expect upon visiting this lively street, here are a list of places you absolutely MUST visit while you’re there. PIZZA DEL BORN
Although for personal pride reasons, my visits here slowly decreased upon being offered a “frequent customer card,” I have to insist that you go Pizza del Born and try one of everything. Often referred to as “the best pizza in Barcelona,” Pizza del Born offers a flavor of deep-dish pizza for any set of taste buds. And with a “happy hour” deal of 3.50 for two slices of pizza and a beverage of your choice, you can’t go wrong. Sit inside amongst tourists and local hipsters or take your pizza to-go and enjoy the summer breeze outside on the stone benches. Personal favorites: Jamón y piña (throwback to an American staple: the Hawaiian pizza) MMMM my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
CREPES AL BORN They had me at “cocktails and crepes.” With a menu that offers a wide array of both sweet and savory crepes and cocktails that are potent and delicious at the same time, this bar located centrally on Passeig del Born is a no-brainer. Sit at the bar and watch the attractive staff mix up €5 mojitos right in front of your eyes, and enjoy yourself amongst a lively and diverse crowd. If you’re feeling crazy, you can throw a €3 tequila shot into the mix. After all, what goes better with a banana and nutella crepe then a little bit of tequila? I’m joking!! But seriously… ORIGINS
This restaurant gets so packed on the weekends that they need 2 locations onPasseig del Born just to meet the demand. I love this place for a few reasons- the first being that the staff is EXTREMELY friendly and attentive. On one of my first visits, the owner himself came out and showed me and my friend exactly how to eat toast the “Catalan way.” Additionally, the extensive menu describes the history of every dish that is offered, so there’s always something to talk about if you experience a lull in conversation! Personal favorite: La ensalada de frutas secas y queso de cabra. Don’t miss it. DE TOT AL BORN
This reasonably priced supermarket in El Borne has a little bit of everything, from some tasty pre-made meals, to food on the shelves that hasn’t actually passed the expiration date!! Not to mention, (lovers of odd soda flavors rejoice): they even have Dr. Pepper and Cherry Coke-a-Cola. Woo hooo! SANDWICH AND FRIENDS
Calm down, food snobs- give me a chance to explain myself. Although it is sometimes regarded as Spanish “fast food,” the menu at El Borne’s Sandwich and Friends has some hidden gems if you know where to look (Personal favorite: La Oliva). And might I remind you that quick service isn’t all that bad!!!!  During the summer the tables outside are always packed with extremely posh looking diners, snacking on their salads and looking through their Ray Ban Wayfarers at their undoubtedly cool blog articles that they’re browsing on the Google Reader of their iPhone 4Gs. And shhhhh you didn’t hear it from me, but if you don’t feel like eating or drinking, the WiFi password normally rotates between “bocadillos” and “cristina” Side note: CASA DELFIN is also another good choice if you’d like to sit outside on Passeig del Born and enjoy some tapas or a glass of wine.

RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER…. There’s just too much going on around Passeig del Born not to mention a few of the neighboring “MUST SEES.” I’ll keep the list very short, as I don’t want to blow your mind with too much Bornformation. (too cheesy?)
PICASSO MUSEUM Museums are a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon, but do you know what’s even better than viewing the famous collection of one of the most renowned artists of all time? Answer: Viewing said collection FOR FREE.  Entrance is free after 3 PM every Sunday and all day on the first Sunday of the month. So go to El Borne and get yourself a free dose of culture this Sunday! EL XAMPANET
An authentic Catalan tapas experience. Heart of El Borne. Friendly staff. €6 bottles of Cava. Need I say more?
LA FIANNA With the red interior, dim lights, and comfy couches and sofa beds, it’s clear why this El Borne bar lands on SuiteLife’s list of TOP 25 First Date Spots in Barcelona. Get there early if you want a sofa bed, because this place gets PACKED on the weekends. The food is mediocre, but for €3 you’ll get one of the biggest glasses of wine that I’ve ever been served in this city. The mojitos are also a crowd favorite, so check it out! There are literally so many cool places on Passeig del Born, and El Borne in general, that I feel guilty only including a few.  This street and those around it can provide any wanderer with endless hours of entertainment. So whether you’re drawn to El Borne for the food, shopping, or the culture, be sure to spend a large chunk of you time on Passeig del Born! ~Leslie

Barcelona Street Profile #3: el Passeig del Born

Trendy and posh, funky yet chic- these are just a few of the words that can be used to describe one of the most treasured neighborhoods in Barcelona- El Born.  From designer boutiques to hip nightclubs, El Borne is THE place in Barcelona to see and be seen at any time of day and all year round. Just minutes away from the chaos of Las Ramblas and the crowded coastline of Barceloneta, El Borne is a sanctuary for tourists and locals alike.
The centerpiece of this historical neighborhood is the famous Passeig del Born. Historically, this tree-lined street once functioned as the epicenter of all public festivities in Barcelona, ranging from jousting tournaments and holiday celebrations to the burning of religious dissenters during the Spanish Inquisition. Don’t worry though- these days you’ll need only to concern yourself with dodging the light-up-propeller-helicopter-toy-things (you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when you see them for yourself) as they fall from the sky back into the hands of the men who will try to sell them to you for a euro just as their toys smack you in the head. No thanks buddy, I think I’ll spend my euro on the Estrella beer that your friend is trying to sell me instead.

Passeig del Born by Day The great thing about Passeig del Born is that there is literally ALWAYS something to do here. Although the ambiance during the day is much more laid back before the dark sets in and the party begins, some sort of excitement can be found around every corner.  The benches on Passeig del Born are undoubtedly one of the best places in Barcelona to sit and enjoy some gelato or a slice of pizza, and “discretely” stare at the well…interesting.. crowd of people as they pass by.
Another one of my favorite places on Passeig del Born to partake in the extreme sport of people watching would have to be the ledge along the “Fossar de les Moreres," a Catalan monument directly across from the Santa Maria del Mar church. While you’re at it, take in a bit of history by reading the poem enscribed on the torch of eternal flames.  It's dedicated to the soldiers who defended Catalonia against the invasion of King Felipe V's troops in 1714, and written in three languages if like me, you’re amongst the unfortunate, non-Catalan speaking crowd. Time will fly by as you take part in the fun of “observing” while simultaneously being “observed” by other El Borne visitors. Before you know it, the sun will be setting over Passeig del Born, as it transforms into it’s nighttime alter ego.

Passeig del Born by Night

There is absolutely no better place to be in the city as the afternoon fades to evening, than sitting at one of Passeig del Born’s numerous outdoor cafes, enjoying a Clara or glass of wine and chatting with friends or that special someone (if you’re so romantically inclined).  Although I’m cheating because it’s not technically ON Passeig del Born, the outdoor tables at the Bubo Wine bar, located right in front of the Santa Maria Del Mar Church, are best location to do just this. Watch the street performers- from guitar and violin players to salsa dancers- as they display their craft against the beautiful backdrop of the immense basilica church that lights up the sky at night. As the sun sets, you’ll slowly notice the bars, restaurants, and the street itself filling up with people. Sunday through Monday you can find groups of friends sitting or standing in groups right in the center of Passeig del Born, talking, laughing, and drinking. The energy is electric on even the slowest of summer nights, as Passeig del Born offers a little something for everyone.

SuiteLife TV's Video Profile of Passeig del Born!

Passieg del Born “Must See’s” Now that you’ve got an idea of what you can expect upon visiting this lively street, here are a list of places you absolutely MUST visit while you’re there. PIZZA DEL BORN
Although for personal pride reasons, my visits here slowly decreased upon being offered a “frequent customer card,” I have to insist that you go Pizza del Born and try one of everything. Often referred to as “the best pizza in Barcelona,” Pizza del Born offers a flavor of deep-dish pizza for any set of taste buds. And with a “happy hour” deal of 3.50 for two slices of pizza and a beverage of your choice, you can’t go wrong. Sit inside amongst tourists and local hipsters or take your pizza to-go and enjoy the summer breeze outside on the stone benches. Personal favorites: Jamón y piña (throwback to an American staple: the Hawaiian pizza) MMMM my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
CREPES AL BORN They had me at “cocktails and crepes.” With a menu that offers a wide array of both sweet and savory crepes and cocktails that are potent and delicious at the same time, this bar located centrally on Passeig del Born is a no-brainer. Sit at the bar and watch the attractive staff mix up €5 mojitos right in front of your eyes, and enjoy yourself amongst a lively and diverse crowd. If you’re feeling crazy, you can throw a €3 tequila shot into the mix. After all, what goes better with a banana and nutella crepe then a little bit of tequila? I’m joking!! But seriously… ORIGINS
This restaurant gets so packed on the weekends that they need 2 locations onPasseig del Born just to meet the demand. I love this place for a few reasons- the first being that the staff is EXTREMELY friendly and attentive. On one of my first visits, the owner himself came out and showed me and my friend exactly how to eat toast the “Catalan way.” Additionally, the extensive menu describes the history of every dish that is offered, so there’s always something to talk about if you experience a lull in conversation! Personal favorite: La ensalada de frutas secas y queso de cabra. Don’t miss it. DE TOT AL BORN
This reasonably priced supermarket in El Borne has a little bit of everything, from some tasty pre-made meals, to food on the shelves that hasn’t actually passed the expiration date!! Not to mention, (lovers of odd soda flavors rejoice): they even have Dr. Pepper and Cherry Coke-a-Cola. Woo hooo! SANDWICH AND FRIENDS
Calm down, food snobs- give me a chance to explain myself. Although it is sometimes regarded as Spanish “fast food,” the menu at El Borne’s Sandwich and Friends has some hidden gems if you know where to look (Personal favorite: La Oliva). And might I remind you that quick service isn’t all that bad!!!!  During the summer the tables outside are always packed with extremely posh looking diners, snacking on their salads and looking through their Ray Ban Wayfarers at their undoubtedly cool blog articles that they’re browsing on the Google Reader of their iPhone 4Gs. And shhhhh you didn’t hear it from me, but if you don’t feel like eating or drinking, the WiFi password normally rotates between “bocadillos” and “cristina” Side note: CASA DELFIN is also another good choice if you’d like to sit outside on Passeig del Born and enjoy some tapas or a glass of wine.

RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER…. There’s just too much going on around Passeig del Born not to mention a few of the neighboring “MUST SEES.” I’ll keep the list very short, as I don’t want to blow your mind with too much Bornformation. (too cheesy?)
PICASSO MUSEUM Museums are a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon, but do you know what’s even better than viewing the famous collection of one of the most renowned artists of all time? Answer: Viewing said collection FOR FREE.  Entrance is free after 3 PM every Sunday and all day on the first Sunday of the month. So go to El Borne and get yourself a free dose of culture this Sunday! EL XAMPANET
An authentic Catalan tapas experience. Heart of El Borne. Friendly staff. €6 bottles of Cava. Need I say more?
LA FIANNA With the red interior, dim lights, and comfy couches and sofa beds, it’s clear why this El Borne bar lands on SuiteLife’s list of TOP 25 First Date Spots in Barcelona. Get there early if you want a sofa bed, because this place gets PACKED on the weekends. The food is mediocre, but for €3 you’ll get one of the biggest glasses of wine that I’ve ever been served in this city. The mojitos are also a crowd favorite, so check it out! There are literally so many cool places on Passeig del Born, and El Borne in general, that I feel guilty only including a few.  This street and those around it can provide any wanderer with endless hours of entertainment. So whether you’re drawn to El Borne for the food, shopping, or the culture, be sure to spend a large chunk of you time on Passeig del Born! ~Leslie

"Caga Tio" and "Caganer": Two Strange Catalan Christmas Traditions

Caga Tio and Caganer are two very strange Catalan Christmas traditions, and they're often misunderstood, so in true Christmas spirit, I will try my best to give you a clear explanation of what Caga Tio and Caganer are, and also make sure you understand the difference between Caga Tio and Caganer.

Discovering Caga Tio

[caption id="attachment_9901" align="alignleft" width="400"]
Santa may come down the chimney, but Caga Tio "poos" presents![/caption] My first Christmas in Barcelona was really, really good fun, partly because I discovered a new twist on the ever so repetitive Christmas traditions we have in the UK. I would orientate my English classes (I was working as an English teacher at the time) around Christmas themes such as Father Christmas and Snowmen etc. I noticed that every class, somebody would mention Caga Tio, and I had to ask "what is Caga Tio?". To tell you the truth, when they explained what Caga Tio was, I thought they were pulling my leg.

What Is Caga Tio?

Caga Tio, pronounced "Cacka-tee-oh"  is a wooden log with a smiley face painted onto one end. Caga Tio also wears a traditional Catalan red hat and is basically the Catalan equivalent of Santa Clause. Any one with a little Spanish knowledge, knows that "tio" means "uncle", however it also means "log" and Caga Tio translates to "poo Log", Christmassy hey?! "Caga Tio, if you don't poop well, I'll hit you with a stick" [caption id="attachment_9900" align="alignright" width="346"]
You have to "beat" Caga Tio with a stick to make him poop presents![/caption] The idea is that Caga Tio is "looked after" by the kids from the 8th of December to Christmas Eve. They cover his rear end with a blanket to keep him warm and feed him Turron and Orange peel every evening. The more they feed him, the more Christmas presents he will "poo-out" for Christmas. I kid you not people, I didn't believe it either, but it's true, and the story only gets stranger from here. Caga Tio, apparently, needs a little persuasion to "poo" the presents out, so after weeks of feeding Caga Tio and making sure he is warm with his blanket, the kids are given a stick to "beat" Caga Tio with. Only then will he "poo" out the presents. As if this isn't absurd enough, they also have to sing a song..... caga tió, caga torró, avellanes i mató, si no cagues bé et daré un cop de bastó. caga tió!" (poop log, poop turrón, hazelnuts and cottage cheese, if you don't poop well, I'll hit you with a stick, poop log!) Once they sing the song and beat Caga Tio with the stick, the kids look in the blanket which as been keeping Caga Tio warm for the last few weeks, to find their Christmas presents. I can only assume that if the kids aren't happy with their gifts, they beat him some more and throw him in the fire! [caption id="attachment_9904" align="alignleft" width="298"]
Caganer - Welcome to the weird world of Catalonia.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_9935" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Jürgen Salenbacher[/caption]

Jürgen Salenbacher: A Creative Mind in Barcelona

Last night I attended the book launch of the most creative man in Barcelona, Jürgen Salenbacher.  His much-anticipated new book, "Creative Personal Branding", has hit the bookstore shelves and I couldn't wait to get my hands on a copy.

Full Disclosure:

To me personally, Jürgen is a close friend and we did our MBA together here in Barcelona.  To the world though, he is one of the leading authorities on the creative economy, innovation, and branding.  His accomplishments are too vast to list in their entirety, but here are the highlights:  Jürgen's clients over the years include Coca-Cola, Durex, Levi's, Lego, Luis Vuitton, Adidas International, Roca, and Mattel.  He has led branding strategies for Michael Ballack, Muhammed Ali, and the Kingdom of Bhutan.  He's even won the famous Red Dot Award, amongst many others.  Since 2006 he has somehow also found time to be a professor at IED Barcelona where he teaches Masters-level classes in Communication Strategy and International Marketing Strategy.  All that AND the striking good looks of Pierce Brosnan!

Jürgen Salenbacher's book:

As his website succinctly explains "Salenbacher looks at the origins of today's crisis and examines the work of leading theorists in business culture before explaining how our success in exploring change rests on our ability to think creatively".  We all know that life = change.  Whether you are an entrepreneur, an employee looking to contribute more, a creative type, or just someone facing change and major life decisions, this book is for you.  Interspersed with challenging and eye-opening exercises, "Creative Personal Branding" can help you put your life in perspective and strategically plan for the big question that we all ask ourselves, "what's next?". [caption id="attachment_9939" align="aligncenter" width="600"]
Jürgen Salenbacher & Benny Mouckley[/caption] I've only had time to read the first two chapters since last night, but I'm already impressed and will be furiously reading the rest of the book over the holiday break.  I suggest that anyone looking to take life by the horns and embrace change, instead of being paralyzed by it as most of us are, buy this book today! For more info and to purchase a copy see Jürgen's website here. Cheers, Benny

Living in Spain – “An Angel” – Animal Rescue

After a life changing crisis Judith Lynne decided to leave her well known habitat in Denmark and pursue her dream of living in Spain, here she discovered the joy of giving and began to support the local animal shelters. Here’s her story on how she devoted her life to help the animals.
”And there I was, suddenly all by myself as if the ”gold carpet” was ripped from underneath my feet”, Judith Lynne. Judith Lynne lived a joyful life in Denmark with her husband but one morning after 23 years of mornings together the unthinkable and worst possible thing happened, Judith’s husband didn’t wake up. No sickness, no indisposition, no possible warning that could have changed the outcome. Only 60 years old and he just didn’t wake up. Judith went into a chock and didn’t know where to go from here, she felt like if someone had pulled out the carpet underneath her and her comfort zone was suddenly gone. After a while in sorrow Judith made the decision to realize a lifelong dream of leaving Denmark and move to a sunnier and warmer climate. So she chose Benalmádena Costa in Spain.
“I guess it felt natural to pick things up during a walk on the beach, so I did” Judith Lynne. She spent a lot of time walking down beaches in her new hometown; here she collected different types of seashells. Judith had in her past been very creative so she started painting and gluing in the small shells, creating small pieces of art. In the beginning she just kept them for herself and had them display on shelves, till one of her friends told her she should try and sell them. While she was now living in Spain she wanted to give something back to the Spanish community, she felt as if she needed to do something for her new country, so she decided to spend the entire income from the sale of the shells to buy supplies like food, blankets, gift cards for the vet and cleaning devices for the local animal shelters.
The number of abandoned and homeless animals in Europe is estimated to be around 100 million. It’s hard to find the exact number because there’s no registry (obviously) on most of the stray animals. But in Spain there are estimated to be 800.000 stray dogs, but still the numbers are inconclusive. Even though the animal shelters work 24 hours pr. day taking care of the animals, trying to find new owners and families, they still receive neglected animals every day and night, so the clinics are overcrowded. They don’t have enough resources to take care of them all and the money is short when there is no state or government support. Some of the reasons why these animals are abandoned are because people don’t realize how much work and money you need to put in an animal every day. Some can’t afford keeping their beloved pets or otherwise they don’t get the animals neutered so they multiply uncontrollable leaving the problem even bigger. The animal shelters in Spain rely on private donations as they are not funded or supported by public institutions. Even though the Shelter’s find new and loving homes for most of the animals, cats and dogs are thrown away like trash every day and the shelters are again in need for help and support.
More ideas and creative art pieces has developed through the years and she is now a local known artist with success! Especially her keychains, the small “guardian angels” has become very popular and are sold all over the world. Coincidence? I don’t think so. These guardian angels represent not only Judith’s nonprofit organization “AnAngel” but also the purity of good deeds and faith to humanity! Judith loves living in Spain and she is grateful for the gracious people she has met along the way. ”I really enjoy to be creative and it is an even greater joy to help those who cannot ask for help by themselves” Juddith Lynne. Juddith has now been living in Spain for 8 years and is the founder of the nonprofit organization “AnAngel”, she even adopted a gorgeous kitten from one of the shelters she’s supporting!
Remember it doesn’t matter who you are or where you are, if you’re big or small, help is well appreciated everywhere and you’re the only one who stands in the way of your dreams! If you know any nonprofit organizations like “AnAngel” please do drop a comment below!

Circuit Training Workout on the Barcelona Beach

If you're looking to pay sometimes astronomical gym prices in order to accomplish a little sport in Barcelona and you love exercising indoors, then skip this blog because it isn't for you! If you want to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea, the sun, and get some fresh air into your lungs then please keep reading. Run like a beast along our route from Barceloneta Beach to Bogatell Beach, which includes 3 stops in which you'll be able to do some exercises! After that you will do the same but going from Bogatell back to Barceloneta. If you're a little out of shape like us, and don't want to pass out along the way, we suggest you run on the pavement and not in the sand (that's for the hardcore peeps!).  After building some resistance, its worth running on the sand as it's very good for your legs and feet, and is much easier on your back.

Strength Training Workout Map

The first stop is located between Barceloneta and the 2 towers of Ciutat Villa Olympica. There are often a lot of people at this 'workout station', and most of them tend to be juiced up gorillas working out a little but mostly admiring their own muscles. Anyways, just ignore them, they're not looking at you anyways. The second stop is just before Bogatell Beach, and for me, this is the best one as there are a lot of great machines you can use and  it is not so crowded. The last stop is not so far from the second. There is an upright bench press where you can workout your arms easily. But, big muscle men beware: don't expect too much from this device, the weight is pretty light, so it is more for muscle toning. This circuit training workout is one of my favourites and it's perfect to get in shape no matter where you happen to be. Enjoy working out in front of the sea with a little bit of salty air!

Body-building devices by stations:

This circuit training is about 5.5 kilometers in length. I swear that if you do this every 2 two days, you will be in perfect shape in one month and you'll have that sexy summer BCN beach body! For more information, check our blog about Running in Barcelona or about general sport in Barcelona. Also checkout our free ebook on Barcelona's Best Beaches. What are you doing for a little exercise in Barcelona?  Any good tips? Cheers ! Hugo

QUICK-TIPS ON CATALAN CULTURE

Knowing Catalan culture is a very useful tool if you are living or traveling in Barcelona. For example, if you don't know that Barcelona is the capital of Catalunya, then you may as well be wearing a sign saying "I am a tourist." But you don't have to be an expert! Just knowing a few bits and pieces on Catalan culture can go a long way. So don't be a completely uninformed foreigner. Read on to learn some quick facts about Barcelona's autonomous community. Also be sure to read some fun facts about Barcelona and the history of how Barcelona got its name.

SIMPLE INFO ABOUT CATALUNYA

- Catalunya is located in the Northeast part of Spain and Iberian Peninsula. - It borders France to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the east. - Covers 32.114 km2 - Official population is 7.535.521 - Official languages are Catalan, Castellano (Spanish), and Aranese.
- Catalunya is an autonomous community of Spain, meaning: - This region of Spain has its own self-government - It has the rights of nationalities and regions. - It manages its schools, social services, urban/rural development, health care, etc. -Catalunya is one of the most economically dynamic regions of Spain. With Barcelona as its capital, it is also a huge tourist destination and international cultural center.

Cool Historical Facts about Catalunya

-The origin of the name 'Catalunya' has diverse interpretations. The 2 most popular are 'Land of the Castles' and 'Land of the Goths' -It was once conquered by Rome and became part of the Roman Empire.
-Catalan culture began to develop in the Middle Ages when certain regions of the Iberian Peninsula were ruled by Frankish counts. -Once a part of the the Kingdom of Aragon, Catalunya became a maritime power by trading goods.
-Catalunya has had a long history of both gaining and losing its autonomy. -Catalan culture and nationalism was severely repressed during the regime of Franco (1939-1975). -Catalunya recovered political and cultural autonomy in 1978 when Spain adopted a democratic Constitution.

Amazing Catalan Culture Aspects