We went into the streets to find the 5 best neighbourhoods in Barcelona... and we did it! So we would love to give you a 360 degree view of the five Barcelona neighborhoods we think are the best. We’re going to walk you through the Eixample - the biggest neighborhood of Barcelona; El Raval - the most authentic zone; Gracia - the most peaceful one. Then we’ll show you Gotico, the oldest area of the city and finally El Born - the trendiest one. If you want to know even more about all of the neighborhoods of Barcelona, check out our Neighborhoods Guide.

5 Best Neighbourhoods in Barcelona

We went into the streets to find the 5 best neighbourhoods in Barcelona... and we did it! So we would love to give you a 360 degree view of the five Barcelona neighborhoods we think are the best. We’re going to walk you through the Eixample - the biggest neighborhood of Barcelona; El Raval - the most authentic zone; Gracia - the most peaceful one. Then we’ll show you Gotico, the oldest area of the city and finally El Born - the trendiest one. If you want to know even more about all of the neighborhoods of Barcelona, check out our Neighborhoods Guide.

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Barcelona Street Profile: Las Ramblas

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Suitelife's Barcelona Street Profile series is back, and today we are visiting one of the most famous, versatile and interesting places of Barcelona: Las Ramblas. It is an absolute must-see for everyone coming to Barcelona. Tune in to our favourite impressions of Las Ramblas, take a look at the amazing architecture, follow us to the famous Boqeria Market and listen to our interviews with some of the interesting people who work in Las Ramblas! Also check out our Blog about Las Ramblas.

Our Barcelona Street Profile series went to visit the 'Passeig del Borne', one of our absolute favourite streets in the entire city! Once you visited this street in the trendy Barcelona neighbourhood Born, you will love it like we do. Even though it is not that long, you will find so many different things packed in, like restaurants and cafes, or, especially during the night, nightclubs and bars. Adding to that, el passeig del Borne is also a place heaped in history and tradition, which makes it even more interesting and must see during you stay in Barcelona. If you want to read more about it, check our Blog about 'el Passeig del Borne', a place absolutely worth visiting!

Barcelona Street Profile #3: Passeig del Born

Our Barcelona Street Profile series went to visit the 'Passeig del Borne', one of our absolute favourite streets in the entire city! Once you visited this street in the trendy Barcelona neighbourhood Born, you will love it like we do. Even though it is not that long, you will find so many different things packed in, like restaurants and cafes, or, especially during the night, nightclubs and bars. Adding to that, el passeig del Borne is also a place heaped in history and tradition, which makes it even more interesting and must see during you stay in Barcelona. If you want to read more about it, check our Blog about 'el Passeig del Borne', a place absolutely worth visiting!

We must say, if you are new to the city there’s nothing better than a Barcelona scooter rental to get you flying through Barcelona. It’s by far the easiest, cheapest, fastest and most effective way of being mobile in Barcelona. This is why a huge part of Barcelona's residents own scooters and ride them on a daily basis. You just have to take a look around if you are in Barcelona and you will see hundreds of scooters riding through the streets or being parked on the sidewalk. In this Video we will show you 5 advantages of driving a scooter in Barcelona, and give you some insight into Barcelona's traffic and why scooters are playing such an important role in it.

Barcelona Scooter Rental: 5 Advantages of Driving a Scooter in Barcelona

We must say, if you are new to the city there’s nothing better than a Barcelona scooter rental to get you flying through Barcelona. It’s by far the easiest, cheapest, fastest and most effective way of being mobile in Barcelona. This is why a huge part of Barcelona's residents own scooters and ride them on a daily basis. You just have to take a look around if you are in Barcelona and you will see hundreds of scooters riding through the streets or being parked on the sidewalk. In this Video we will show you 5 advantages of driving a scooter in Barcelona, and give you some insight into Barcelona's traffic and why scooters are playing such an important role in it.

Gracia Barcelona

Click here to download eBook: TOP 13 SUSHI RESTAURANTS IN BARCELONA

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!