COST OF LIVING IN BARCELONA – HOW MUCH ARE UTILITIES IN BCN?

Cost of living Barcelona: how much are utilities in BCN?

Moving to Barcelona and want to know more about the cost of living in BCN? Well, you've come to the right place. When looking for a flat to rent most people are dying to know how much utilities (gas, water, electricity, community, Internet) will cost per month but, obviously, everyone uses utilities differently so there is never going to be an exact, fixed answer. Fortunately, we've got a lot of experience and can give you a pretty good idea of how much it'll cost you overall.

Barcelona Utilities = Not too bad

Cost of Living in Barcelona – how much are utilities in BCN? Image

Before reading all the juicy details, take a deep breath and relax... Compared to other countries, utilities in Barcelona are quite cheap. It's definitely something to take into consideration when renting any apartment in Barcelona, but it's not going to break the bank either. Tip: Remember, in many countries it's common for utilities to be included in the rent but in Barcelona this is not the case.  Although you can sometimes find flats for rent that include utilities, 98% of the prices you see for apartments for rent in Barcelona do not include utilities (Except for Community Fees, which usually are included). What are these community fees, you ask? They're a nominal payment that everyone in the building pays in order to have the communal areas of the building maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. Usually it's about 50€€ / month, and it is normally included in your rent.

Most common practices in setting up of utilities

When you've finally decided on your dream flat, the owner will want to make arrangements so that the utilities are paid by you directly. Usually, you provide them with your Spanish bank account number and they then call the utility companies and change the bank details to yours. Then, when you are charged each month, the money comes out of your account automatically. Since the bank info is changed, but nothing else, you should still get the bills in the mail so you can check to see that you are being charged correctly Tip: Make sure that when you sign the contract on your new flat that the owner and/or agency reads the meters in the flat to record their respective numbers.  That way  you wont end up paying for part of what the tenant before you consumed.

How often do they come?

Currently, the different utility bills in Barcelona come with the following frequency: Gas: Gas bills used to arrive once every 2 months, but it seems as their systems have gotten better that it is now once every month. Water: The water bill comes once every 3 months. Electricity: The electricity bill comes once a month. Internet:  Internet is also billed once a month. Community Fees: Usually monthly, but also usually included in your rent.

 Cost of Living in Barcelona – how much are utilities in BCN? Image

Spanish Vocab

Utilities = Gastos, Suministros Water bill = Factura de Agua Electricity bill = Factura de Luz Gas bill = Factura de Gas Internet Bill = Factura de Internet Community Fees = Gastos de Comunidad

Air conditioning units = beware

It's important to remember that certain appliances consume more energy than others, so you need to be keep an eye on what you're using. At the top of the list is air conditioning. As centralized systems are not yet too common in Barcelona, many people have an external air conditioning unit that is controlled by a remote.  These units suck electricity like crazy (and electricity is the most expensive utility of them all). So if you are in the habit of leaving the house and keeping the air conditioning going while you're out, you may very well have an unpleasant surprise come the end of the month. Other energy suckers are clothes dryers and electric  heaters with high voltage.  As with the air conditioning units, anything that runs on electricity, and needs a lot of it, can cause your bills to jump and increase your cost of living in Barcelona.

Internet = Important

At SuiteLife we believe that every single flat for rent in Barcelona should have Internet ready to go. You won't find many long term flats that will be ready with Internet running the day you move in. In other countries this might seem absurd but in Barcelona, it's just the way it is. What you will find is that most flats are what they call 'Internet Ready' meaning that the phone line is already installed.  If the line is installed already, all you need to do is phone the Internet provider of your choice and have them set it up, which usually takes about 2 days to have them come to your flat. So our advice is don't make Internet your first priority, even if you really need it, as you can always get this sorted pretty quickly.

So how much will it cost me?

OK, ok... back to the cost of living in Barcelona. As we mentioned earlier, it's very hard to estimate how much people will spend on utilities because it depends totally on the consumption and living habits of the specific people. However, here is a good rule of thumb: Count on spending approximately 50 € / per person / month on average over the year. This means if you're two people you should plan on spending about about 100 € / month. But bear in mind that this is an average over the whole year so it can vary month on month. For example, you're likely to have the heating on in winter so mind end up consuming more energy during these months.

Barcelona Utilities: Contact numbers & emergency services

Cost of Living in Barcelona – how much are utilities in BCN? Image
Water: The main water company is called Agbar @: Torre Agbar, Avenida Diagonal 211 Tel: 933 422 000 Emergencies: 900 700 720 Customer Service: 900 710 710 Website: www.aiguesdebarcelona.es Electricity: The main electricity company (they do gas as well) is Fecsa-Endesa Tel: 902 525 852 Emergencies: 900 770 077 Website: www.endesaonline.com Natural Gas: The main gas company for natural gas Tel: 900 760 760 Emergencies: 900 750 750 Website: portal.gasnatural.com That's It!  You should now be an expert, or at least have a clue about utilities and cost of living in Barcelona. If you think we've missed anything out about cost of living in Barcelona or have any helpful tips we'd love to hear from you! Cheers, Benny

BARCELONA INTERNATIONAL GROCERY STORES – THE TASTE OF HOME!

Barcelona International Grocery Stores - the taste of home!

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
Listen up all you desperate expats craving for a taste of home in Barcelona! We've searched the entire city for Barcelona International grocery stores providing international products just like the ones you find at home! These types of Barcelona International grocery stores are quite common, especially Barcelona Chino stores (or Chinese stores). You just need to know where to look! It all began with our boss complaining about his tremendous craving for Peanut Butter. Yes, when you’re Canadian (or North American in general), you have more Peanut Butter running through your veins than blood, believe me. So, with this special taste of home in mind, we went on the hunt for Peanut Butter. But enough with the chit-chat! Here'’s our top 10 Barcelona International grocery stores:

1)  Taste of Home Barcelona

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
This is our absolute number 1. Peanut Butter here costs 3.95€ but it’s not the only American/British product you'’ll find there. A Taste of Home Barcelona gives you the choice between 2000 products from jelly to Gentlemans Relish & all their products can be delivered directly to your home or office… or your yacht (yes, absolutely dear!). And for all you Brits out there...THEY HAVE CADBURY'S! Have a look at C/ de Floridablanca, 78.!

2) The British Market

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
Located on c/ Iglesias 178 bajos, in Castelldefels, is another good one: baking goods, teas, curry sauce, creams, biscuits and Peanut Butter (from 3.40€…), everything’s there. A taste of home in Barcelona for those from the other side of the Channel… (Transportation: Renfe "Castelldefels" stop, NOT "Castelldefels Playa" stop.)

3) Barcelona Chino Stores

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
Some really common Barcelona International grocery stores are the Chino stores. We were actually hesitating: should we put them number 1? Peanut Butter won, however Barcelona Chino stores are EVERYWHERE and so cheap!  You can find absolutely anything in them, from rice cookers to  100 varieties of noodle soups… anything authentically Chinese. My favourite is near MACBA (SuperStar Asia Food, C/ Tallers 77). There’s also the Barcelona Chino shop next to Plaça Catalunya (Dong Fang, c/ Balmes 6) that is enormous.  If you're a Chinese food lover like us than you have to check out some of these Chinese supermarkets and make your next dinner party at home an authentic one!

4) Colmado Afro-Latino

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image

It is on Via Laietana 15 and is one of the Barcelona International grocery stores that most reflects the growth of South American comunity in Barcelona. We love this international food store! Located in the heart of Gotico, Colmado Afro-Latino sells spices, beers, vegetables, fruits, sauces, beans, cheeses, and already made meals from all over Latin America at reasonable prices. Check it out if you’re home sick or in search of thrilling discoveries!  Also, The Sagrada Familia area of the Eixample has a very high population of Latinos.  Literally walking around a little you will discover quite a few great Latino supermarkets.  I'd suggest LatinCor, which is at c/ Córsega 536 and also Zoco Latino on c/ Lepant 362.  If you're from any Central or South American country, or just a fan of the food, you'll love these places.

5) Tot Formatge

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
The address is Passeig del Born 13 and it literally means “All Cheese”! Cheese addicts, this store is for you. There are cheeses from pretty much every European country. As a French person, I am a cheese connoisseur. I love every single type of cheese: blue, soft, creamy, strong, hard, stinky, goat, cow, sheep, or even cat milk! (OK, that last one was a joke). This shop is like Paradise for me. Do check it out!!

6) Australian Gourmet

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
Want to eat some kangaroo?? Or how bout some of that famous Vegemite they love so much down under? Help yourself!

7) El Corte Inglés

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
Plaça Catalunya 14, is one of Spain’s largest department stores and also one of the most famous Barcelona International grocery stores. Go to the basement and explore the gourmet section.  Even in the non-gourmet section you'll find a nice selection of international products.

8) Cafés El Magnifico

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
This is definitely a dream for anyone who'’s in love with this dark strong flavoured hot drink that has become so indispensable to hard working people. Coffee is actually the world's second most traded commodity after crude oil and the coffees from other countries are as diverse as the people living in them.  At Cafés El Magnífico you can rest assured that you’ll find the finest brews from all over the world. Italians, find the best ones and prepare coffee as if you were home!

9) DeliShop

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
This is an excellent item in the list of Barcelona International grocery stores where you can find thousands of ingredients.  Anything you need to cook any type of international dish you might be craving: from Indian to French, German, British, Latin and Asian products!  As one of the owners is from New York City, all you Americans will be happy to know you can also find such comfort foods here as Dr. Pepper, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, Kraft Dinner Macaroni & Cheese, Nerds, and much much more.  Try Ricky's original recipes on their website. DeliShop has 3 locations in Barcelona, so if you live in BCN and you have a diverse palate, then you must experience this unique store!! c/ Mallorca 241, Travesera de Gracia 141, & L'Illa Diagonal Shopping Centre.

10) La Troika Delicatessen

Barcelona International Grocery Stores – the taste of home! Image
If you prefer Russian food to Peanut Butter, the Russian shop La Troika Delicatessen (c/ Unio, 3), near Las Ramblas, will offer you  smoked fish, Vodka, sweet potatoes, caviar and kotliety... Prices are somewhat high though. But nonetheless, it remains one of the best Barcelona International grocery stores. Do you know of any  other Barcelona International grocery stores where they sell international food products?  We'd love to hear your suggestions so we can check them out and maybe include them in an update! Enjoy! A.

BAR MIRABLAU BARCELONA – AMAZING CITY VIEW… FROM TIBIDABO!

Bar Mirablau Barcelona - amazing city view… from Tibidabo!

Bar Mirablau Barcelona – amazing city view… from Tibidabo! Image
‘Where to go in Barcelona’, ‘what to see in Barcelona’, ‘what’s going on in Barcelona’… we’ve all typed these phrases into Google a million times, trawled the web, scanned magazines and asked around, looking for inspiration and new ideas on what to explore next in this City. Sometimes we stumble upon something fresh and sometimes a failed search forces us to retreat back to the few places we all know and love. However, if you find yourself in this situation and you have a romantic setting on the agenda, maybe facilitated with a dazzling Barcelona view and an excellent bar, then stop your search here and take a trip to Tibidabo to chill at the Bar Mirablau Barcelona!

Barcelona, the city of love?...

Well, it’s not exactly Paris but you don’t have to go far in this city to discover it has a heart. With the beautiful summer sun, the echo of the Mediterranean sea and the exquisite historic architecture alive with wonder, it’s the perfect setting for a little bit of romance. In fact, when you really stop to take a look at Barcelona you will discover that in the fine words of cheesy Brit band Wet Wet Wet, “love is all around”!  However, there’re only so many candlelit dinners and strolls by the beach one can take and if you’re craving something with that extra little bit of 'Va-Va-Voom' then you should definitely take the small 15 minute journey from Barcelona to discover Tibidabo and obviously Bar Mirablau Barcelona!

Bar Mirablau Barcelona – amazing city view… from Tibidabo! Image

From Barcelona to Tibidabo…

You’ve probably heard of this place being home to one of Europe’s best Science museums or to the huge American style amusement park Portaventura we mentioned in a previous article and you’d be right.  However, for a more romantic backdrop and much calmer ambience, start you’re Tibidabo experience with little blue tram proudly parked at the bottom the mountain. As it steadily comes in to site as you exit the station you’ll notice it waiting patiently for its next load of happy faces to hop on board.

Bar Mirablau Barcelona in Tibidabo

Bar Mirablau Barcelona – amazing city view… from Tibidabo! Image
After joining the few passengers already sat eagerly awaiting the excursion ahead, you’ll slowly make your way up the mountain and come to a stop in a quaint, colourful, pretty little place right outside the chic Bar Mirablau Barcelona. This classic and stylish Bar Mirablau Barcelona has eyes that subject you to the most spectacular sights. The windows are perfectly placed and span from floor to ceiling allowing you see the most perfect, uninterrupted magnificent Barcelona view.  This romantic Tibidabo experience is a far cry from screaming down a 180-degree drop of an over excited rollercoaster and if you add a cheeky glass of Cava or a delicious fruity cocktail, you’re away. If you’re lucky enough try to escape the lights and bustle of the city early evening and settle here in Tibidabo until the sun sets and the stars rise, during this time Barcelona really shines revealing it’s true beauty.

Tibidabo to Barcelona

The journey back down can be a little less romantic because after 8pm the tram retires subjecting you to the delights of a bus or Taxi, the two modes of transport not exactly oozing romance but both offering a practical solution. However, after a couple of hours tasting the sweet delights of the striking scenery, and delicious drinks, you probably won’t mind.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious  cocktail of romance, mixed with a astonishing Barcelona view and topped with the great Bar Mirablau Barcelona, make sure your Google search terminates here and follow this advice all the way up the mountain of Tibidabo! Kerry Jessop

LA TERRAZZA BARCELONA – PARTY IN OPEN AIR UNDER THE STARS!

La Terrazza Barcelona - party in open air under the stars!

La Terrazza Barcelona – party in open air under the stars! Image
In Barcelona, every summer is a hot one guys, but we all know the party must go on! So listen closely Summer party-goers because I'’ve got some GREAT news! What if I told you about a place where you can dance your heart out all night long, and not feel like you have to bring a change of clothes for the outfit that you’ll undoubtedly sweat through within 5 minutes of arriving at your favorite Barcelona disco?? Sounds good right? Nestled in the side of the Montjuic hill lays our solution - La Terrazza Barcelona! La Terrazza Barcelona is an amazing open-air nightclub in Poble Español, where you can enjoy the beats of DJs from around the world and dance the night away under the stars. That’s right, I said “under the stars,” meaning 90% of the club is outdoors so there’s plenty off fresh air to go around for you and hundreds of your closest friends. Here, you can leisurely sip on your slightly overpriced Vodka Limon without the urge to dump out its entire contents over your head just to cool off. La Terrazza Barcelona – party in open air under the stars! Image

The atmosphere

But it’s the atmosphere at La Terrazza Barcelona that makes it worth the trip outside of the Barcelona center. They don’t call it the “Atmospherical Fun Club” for nothin’. After entering Poble Espanyol, you’ll wind your way back along the cobble stone streets (ladies, keep this in mind when choosing your footwear), following the faint sound of  electro beats, until you finally arrive at Casa Son Berga, the magnificent mansion housing the club. Once inside, you’'ll be entranced by the visual spectacle of colorful lights and projections cast against the walls and enormous palm trees that line the courtyard. When you finally snap out of it, you’ll quickly notice yourself surrounded by a chic and eclectic mix of people from all over the world, either hanging out at one of the few outdoor bars or dancing around (or on top of) the central stage.

Time surely flies...

Then before you know it, it’s 6:30 am and you’ll be leaving just in time to take in a breathtaking birds-eye view of the city as the sun is coming up and you’re finally calling it a night. It’s by far the “coolest” Barcelona fiesta around, in every sense of the word. Now pay attention because here are a few tips to make your evening way more convenient and economical: HOW TO GET THERE: A FREE bus leaves every 20 minutes from right outside the Barcelona Hard Rock Café starting from 00:20h until 3:20h. HOW TO GET HOME: Buses running non stop from Poble Espanyol to Plaza Espanya from 5:30h to 6:45h. HOW TO AVOID THE 18 € COVER CHARGE: Go on Facebook and join the group “'La Terrrazza Barcelona, Atmospherical fun club',” find the date of the event you want to attend, and put your name plus however many friends you’ll be bringing (the more the merrier) on the guest list at least 24 hours before the party starts. If you show up before 2 am you’ll get in for only 5 euros! So, La Terraza Barcelona gives us a cool, open-air clubbing experience with a unique vibe, incredible view, and great music at a totally reasonable cost. How can you argue with that?

BARCELONA CITY – UNCOVERED BARCELONA JUST FOR YOU!

Barcelona City - uncovered Barcelona just for you!

Barcelona City – uncovered Barcelona just for you! Image

How well do you know Barcelona City?

Barcelona is unforgiving by way of entertainment and like it or not after a very short time living in this City you'll know what Barcelona bars serve up the best drinks, what Barcelona restaurants serve the best Barcelona Tapas, where to shop, when to stop , and even have a favourite Barcelona Beach. Barcelona City is littered with advertisements, posters are pasted carelessly on to walls, thousands of leaflets are handed out daily and you'll even hear the odd instantly recognisable sound of a helicopters rotar blade slicing through the sky with a giant banner in tow. Everywhere you look there's an invitation to discover something new and before long you yourself become a walking A-Z of Barcelona. However, have you ever sat down and considered how well you really know Barcelona City? There'll be a small majority out there who appear to know everything, characters with such a wealth of knowledge they impress and astound even the brightest of folk. Yet, with a past and present as colourful, complex and diverse as Barcelona's it is impossible to know it all! So read on and make room for a few more nuggets of information about Barcelona's past and present that may have escaped you until now.

Barcelona City History and Traditions uncovered

When it comes to famous faces gone by and remarkable Barcelona architecture archives definitely border on the verge of impressive. The city is drenched in history and for every building, structure, space and name there is a story to be told. Look up and marvel at the impressive La Seu Cathedral, Sagrada Familia, and Casa Batlló. Wander through Parc Guell and be blown away by Gaudi's incredible us of colour. Take a glimpse at the famous Picasso museum or go in search of the impressive collection of photographs from Dali's life currently exhibited in the old town. So, where did it all start? Barcelona City – uncovered Barcelona just for you! Image
Legend suggests the city was founded by Hercules, 400 years before Rome however, others argue the city got it name from the great Barca family of Carthage and was founded in the 3rd century BC. This City is constantly full of surprises and the unsolved mystery of how Barcelona came to be only adds to its intrigue. Along with its history,  Tapas is the word commonly associated with Barcelona City. Few have been here and not sampled Barcelona Tapas. Suffice to say every other restaurant you walk past specialises or at least dabbles in tapas. Thousands flock daily to the hugely popular haunts like Xampanyet whilst others take a smaller, less crowded approach to the Barcelona Tapas dish. Whichever way it comes it may interest you to know that Tapas isn't a type of food. Tapas is a way of eating food, a small dish, mainly taken with a drink. Alongside Tapas, many who know Barcelona City also associate it with the magnificent, spectacular Flamenco performances that are showcased here. In fact, "Flamenco dance" is a phrase that's echoed all over the City. Fascinating then to discover it isn't predominately a dance! In fact Flamenco contains four main elements, the Guitar, the vocals, las palmas (hand claps) and in fourth place comes the dancing. It's also interesting to learn that Flamenco originated in the South of Spain (and isn't even really a Barcelona tradition) especially when you consider that Barcelona City does Flamenco so very well.

Barcelona Today uncovered

Barcelona City – uncovered Barcelona just for you! Image
Loving Barcelona City comes from a mixture of history, of traditions and of what's been introduced more recently. Nowhere, will you find the combination of New and Old living so perfectly in unison. For the city's modern society it wouldn't be the same without the lasting stretch of sand that creates the Barcelona beaches we all know and love. Yet, although the majority recognise that those beaches are man-made, what's impressive is that until 1992 there were none! Yet, for everything we love this City for unfortunately it's not completely perfect and one gripe shared by many living here, often involves the chaos of the traffic. In today's society Barcelona City and traffic go as hand in hand as a red rag and a bull, quite aggressively to say the least. However, the extent of the anarchy on the roads only becomes apparent when you look at the facts. Some suggest at one time there was an accident happening every 90 seconds! Probably why a large amount of people choose to walk. Also, bearing in mind there's a whole 130 acres, that’s 260 football pitches, dedicated to walking zones why wouldn't you? So, next time you’re stumbling through this familiar City just stop and think. Question how much you actually do know because in reality when you start digging deeper, Barcelona City has a tendency to reveal some hidden secrets making it all the more exciting. - Kerry Jessop

BEAT THE QUEUE AT SAGRADA FAMILIA – BE PREPARED!

Beat the Queue at Gaudi's Sagrada Familia - be prepared!

Todays blog will be about how to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia, if you're reading this then you're just one of thousands trying to work out when is the best time to go and how on earth you can avoid that god forsaken queue! Well you're in a luck, because I have the solution to all your troubles... Beat the Queue at Sagrada Familia – Be Prepared! Image
Gaudi's Church is truly remarkable and the on going project is extremely ambitious and one that should really be admired and cherished. However the last thing you want to do is have a bad experience at Sagrada. Gaudi was an artistic genius hut not even the great Gaudi could orchestrate or anticipate the popularity his church would generate. So don't let a long queue be your only experience of this magnificent building. So what are we waiting for ... lets find out how to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia.

BOOK ONLINE IN ADVANCE!!!!

Beat the Queue at Sagrada Familia – Be Prepared! Image
Right okay step one to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia .... its the most obvious one which is to book in advance! I know it sounds silly but we are lazy creatures let's be honest. We expect to come to the city and just walk right in to the most crowded touristy places without any struggle, well let me tell you now that its not the case and NEVER will be! So this is a must! Whether you're planning to visit this city or already in Barcelona you need to book tickets well in advance online. A tour guide is included and you'll be jumping the queues (shouting 'SUCKERS!!!' as you pass by the helpless individuals in the ever-growing queue) in no time. Remember you can't go straight to the gates. With your advanced ticket you can jump the queue to the meeting point where you shall all be escorted further.

EARLY BIRD CATCHES THE WORM!!

Beat the Queue at Sagrada Familia – Be Prepared! Image
Now for those who forgot to book in advance this is what you need to do to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia. Come close... Are you listening ??? Okay you need to make sure you arrive VERY early in the morning! Trying to buy a ticket during the day or towards the evening is next to impossible and theres no need for you to be waiting a ridiculous amount of time. Sagrada opens at 9:00am and the tourists usually starts quite early too, therefore you will have to anticipate and plan properly. There is no guarantee that even if you wake up at 6am that you will be at the front of the queue as its all about the luck of the day! But what I can be sure of is that if you time it right in the morning you can certainly reduce your waiting time SIGNIFICANTLY! Beat the Queue at Sagrada Familia – Be Prepared! Image
Now if you haven't even booked your flight yet and your sole purpose for coming to Barcelona is to see the Sagrada Familia then you would be wise to choose your dates accordingly. This is the perfect way to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia as this enables you to avoid all the touristy periods which tend to be near the spring and summer season. So an ideal period would be during winter around November to late February. However there is a reason why this isn't a touristy period because the weather isn't the greatest. Hope you guys enjoyed the blog guys and if you have any comments please do share them below, maybe there's another way to beat the queue at Sagrada Familia that we haven't heard of? For more information on Sagrada Familia Click here! You can buy your tickets in advance here!

CIUTADELLA PARK : NO PLACE CAN BEAT IT!

Visit the Ciutadella Park in the heart of Barcelona

The parks in Barcelona are plenty, but I know a place for readers and writers, for people like me who love to go for a run, families, teenagers who are heading out for a picnic on a Saturday afternoon, or couples in love who are looking for a romantic walk. I am talking about Parc de la Ciutadella (in English: the Ciutadella Park) located in El Born. And by now, I can say that I have developed an addiction. However, I don't know if I am more addicted to running or going to the park because I spend almost everyday here - running. Ciutadella Park : No place can beat it! Image
For you who have not yet been, this Barcelona park is a gorgeous open space behind the chic Barcelona neighborhood : El Born. The Ciutadella park is close to the France Train Station, the Olympic Village, Barceloneta neighborhood as well as the peer and the beach.  When going for a run, I usually run through the park, over to the Arc del Triomf (this is my goal..so I tend to run extra fast over here) and then I continue down to the seaside in order to let the cool breeze from the ocean cool me off. This park is actually a great piece of work to study for the one who is interested in history. Arc de Triomf for example, the grandest entrance to the park, was designed for the 1888 Exhibition by Josep Vilaseca i Casanoves. Thinking about it, I actually don't go here mainly for running because what I find interesting and special about this park is that it's a place for everybody. Built in the late 1860s on the site of a former military fortress (Ciutadella) this park offers a way range of fun and different things to do. You will find groups of every age; families having picnics, kids playing football or frisbee, while others are practicing juggling, balancing, enjoying the sunshine from a park bench or playing drums and guitar. Ciutadella Park : No place can beat it! Image
The Ciutadella park offers a wide range of museums and other attractions. For example, you have the Museum of Modern Art, The Geology Museum, The Zoology Museum as well as the Barcelona Zoo. I actually didn't know that the Barcelona Zoo existed until the other day when I couldn't find my way back in the Ciutadella park while taking a short cut when going for a run. Furthermore, the park features a lake where you can rent a boat and take a ride on the water for approximately 5 Euros per half an hour. However, what I did not know is that the park closes at 22:00. As I work late hours (yes, sometimes even until 20:00..) I also tend to go running late. To make everything convenient for you (I mean, I don't want you to go here excited to spend some hours in the sunshine or visiting one of the museums only to find out it's closed..) I thought I'd give you the timetable for the different activities. Barcelona Zoo: open Nov-Feb 10 am - 5 pm daily March-May & Oct 10 am - 6 pm daily Jun - Sep 10 am - 7pm Entrance: 14 Euros, Children 8.5 Euros Museu de Zoologia & Museu de Geologia: Open 10 am - 2.30 pm Tue-Sun (Thu until 6.30 pm) Entrance: 3 Euros each museum, 4 Euros Joint ticket To get to the Ciutadella Park, you can take Metro L1 to Arc de Triomf or Metro L4 to Jaume I. I would suggest you take the metro till Arc de Triomf as this is a very nice walk (surrounded by giant palm-trees and London-look-alike street-lights) and closer to the park. Parc de la Ciutadella, Between Pujades and Picasso Street, Open Hours: 08:30 - 22:00 Charlotte Giver

CATALAN MODERNISM: BARCELONA’S FAMOUS ARCHITECTS

Catalan Modernism: Barcelona’s Famous Architects Image

Catalan Modernism in Barcelona: Some Famous Masterpieces!

It’s no secret that Barcelona is world renowned for its eclectic and beautiful architecture.  Thousands upon thousands of tourists pass through the city each year and see the likes of the Sagrada Familia, La Pedrera, and Casa Batlló.  Barcelona is especially famous for Catalan Modernism.

Definition of Catalan Modernism

Known also as Modernisme, Catalan Modernism was the equivalent of Art Nouveau and lasted from roughly 1888-1911.  It’s best known figure was Antoni Gaudí.  The movement was led by highly individualistic and anti-traditionalist intellectuals who were attempting to update Catalán arts and ideas so as to catch up to the rest of major European cities. Catalan Modernism: Barcelona’s Famous Architects Image
Actually, the area of Paseo de Gracia between c/ Valencia & c/ Aragó is called the Block of Disaccord.  When the city expanded past the old city limits, all the richest Barcelonés, and the top catalan architects of the day, competed to build the best and most intricate buildings.  In the end we were left with a street full of some of the most extraordinary examples of Catalan Modernism architecture ever produced. In this top-ranking article we will pass through some of the most famous Catalan architects and their buildings, touching on one especially famous Catalán hero named Josep Puig I Cadafalch.  He was the mastermind behind “Casa de les Punxes” (House of the Toothpicks), “Casa Amatller” & “Casa Matí” where the famous Catalán resturant Els Quatre Gats is located.

Who was Josep Puig i Cadafalch?

Josep Puig i Cadafalch was a famous Catalan Modernism architect who was born in Mataró the 17th of October 1867 and died on the 23rd of December 1956. He was a disciple of  Lluis Domenech i Muntaner who designed the “Palau de la Música” and “Casa Fuster”, Woody Allen’s favourite five star hotel, and “Casa Lleo Morera”.  Both architects were of great importance for the Catalan Modernism movement that made Barcelona the great architectural city that it is today.

His Works:

Catalan Modernism: Barcelona’s Famous Architects Image
Josep designed “Casa de les Punxes” in the name of the “Terrades” brothers who wanted to combine their two houses into one building. He projected the Gothic style of Europe with some Medieval aspects like the building’s six towers.  The towers have an iconic shape with needles on top fittingly giving it its name of Les Punxes, which is Catalán for toothpicks. It is located on Avenida Diagonal but it is not open to the public. Another piece of Catalan Modernism architecture created by Puig I Cadafalch is Casa Amatller, the house that was custom built for the Amatller family who made their fortune in chocolate and other investments. The house is part of the Block of Discord where two other famous architects have had assignments for other families (like casa Batlló and Casa Lleo Morera).  Casa Amatller houses the institute Amatller for the Spanish Arts.  Only the entrance is open to the public and the front of the building displays sculptures of Eusebi Arnau who was a famous Catalan sculptor. Catalan Modernism: Barcelona’s Famous Architects Image
The restaurant Els Quatre Gats is located in “Casa Martí”, which was designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch. When the building was officially opened it served as a hostal, bar and cabaret but it soon became a central meeting point for Barcelona artists and intelligentsia. The musical “Le Chat Noir” was inspired by this restaurant and the interesting people that used to hang out there. Our next update on Catalán Modernism will be starring: “Lluis Domenech i Muntaner” the designer of “Palau de la Música” and other great buildings in the Catalan Modernism architectural landscape.

SHOPPING IN BARCELONA: ADVICE ON WHERE TO SHOP IN GRACIA

Shopping in Barcelona : Discover Gracia!

Shopping in Barcelona: Advice on Where to Shop in Gracia Image
Living and shopping in Barcelona definitely requires one to have a lot of self-control over the finer things in life and with the countless Barcelona parties, festivals and the wide variety of food and drink on offer, it’s far too easy to indulge here.
Then, just when you think you have it all under control the city hits you with another vice, possibly the worst of all, you got it girls…  Barcelona shopping!
 The words Barcelona and Shopping go hand in hand and it certainly has the potential to offer an incredible shopping experience but, at the same time it also has the potential to destroy the credit card and rinse the bank account.
In fact, for those among us with a little less restraint, when it comes to matters of the shops, a guilty conscience and empty purse is inevitable!
You can’t escape it, down every cobbled pathway and around every winding corner, Barcelona shops spill out on to the road from one district to the next. The Born and The Raval are rich with small boutiques and quirky little stores which appear out of nowhere, patiently awaiting your curiosity and custom. Whilst Catalunya, Passeig de Gracia and Diagonal are less discreet and swamped with big imposing buildings, proudly embossed with huge recognisable fashion brands such as Calvin Klein, Versace and Armani.
Just like Alice in Wonderland you’ll constantly stumble across new surprises and won’t be able to resist the “BIG” and “SMALL” windows exhibiting the vast array of jewellery, arts, clothes and antiques, all whispering the words, “Buy me”.
So, with so much temptation how is it possible to give advice on where to go for some good old shopping in Barcelona?  Well, my suggestion would be to explore, get into every nook and cranny of this city and discover it’s true shopping delights.
However, for an extra special trip I recommend paying a visit the lovely neighbourhood of Gracia Barcelona.
Contrasting words like hip, traditional, bohemian, old, trendy and time-honoured attach themselves to this place. Direct contrasts live side-by-side and it’s not uncommon to find a sparkling stylish boutique neighbouring a conventional Catalan store. Yet, whilst you may think this odd mix may confuse and blur its identity, the regular differences only add to its charm. What you’ll find in Gracia Barcelona is a popular, modern district, proud of its roots. Especially the Calle Verdi Street in Barcelona is not to be missed.

Gracia Shops:

My suggestion would be, to ensure you make the most of the shopping potential in the Gracia district, is to wander up and down the many streets, mosey on through the countless squares and develop your own personal fondness for this area. However if clothes and accessories are on the top of your shopping list, then check out these cool little stores.
Shopping in Barcelona: Advice on Where to Shop in Gracia Image

Retro City, Travessera de Gracia

If you’re looking for reasonably priced, super cool vintage stuff then don’t miss this place.  From the outside it’s a plain shop with no sign, simply resembling a hole in the wall. Yet, inside it comes to life with colour. It’s crammed literally from floor to ceiling with accessories, shoes, bags, hats and quirky clothes. If you love this type of gear then you’ll love this shop.
Shopping in Barcelona: Advice on Where to Shop in Gracia Image

PHILO, C. del Pendes

It’s a small chic boutique with a modern and impressive collection and the ability to suit a range of tastes and budgets. New design is contrasted with retro style clothing and this place, although small, is a girl’s miniature shopping paradise.
Shopping in Barcelona: Advice on Where to Shop in Gracia Image

Locas De Atar, Torrent de l’Olla

The clothes that grace the shelves here are distinctive, unique and exclusive. This shop promotes young talent and offers designers the chance to showcase and sell their work. This means each individual piece is different to the next and you get to sport a design much more personal and rare, something you’ll never find on the high street.
…and afterwards?
Well, if you’ve chose to avoid the mainstream labels and found yourself in the Gracia Barcelona, exhausted and carrying too many bags, then take a seat in one of the many squares. Here you can marvel at the impressive Catalan architecture and spend your last few pennies on a sparkling glass of Cava. The perfect ending to a perfect shopping in Barcelona expedition.
And you ? What are your favorite places to go shopping in Barcelona?
Kerry Jessop

BEST OF AIRBNB – MOST LUXURIOUS RENTALS IN BARCELONA!

Best Of AirBnb - Some Of The Most Luxurious Rentals Seen In Barcelona!

AirBnb has become one of the most popular platforms to share and rent apartments. Whether you're looking for a long term contract or just a holiday visit, AirBnb most definitly have what you're looking for! But AirBnb also have some pretty luxurious rentals! We have collected a list of some of the most luxurious rentals seen in Barcelona! These places may not be for everyone, but if you just won the lottery (or are ready to give up your first born child) this is for you! - We give you, the best of AirBnb!

1# Welcome Aboard, Sir!

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
Wanna go for a boat ride? This beauty of a yacht contains 4 double cabins with own bathroom and a complete kitchen. You can even rent a Skipper for a day (or two) if you want to go on a day trip! Pretty cool huh? Well I’m ready to go! Are you? Luxurious sail yacht in Barcelona €475 Pr. Night

2#  1001 Arabian Nights'ish!

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
Count me in! This Bohemic/Aladdin'ish old Fortress is surrounded by vineyards, has a great sea view and only a 2 min walk from the beach. During your stay you can request a “detox” health program provided by professional therapists, they can help you eat right and regain strength and energy! Getting skinny while you’re on vacation?! How awesome is that!? ANCIENT 1770 FORTRESS - MASIA €500 Pr. Night

3# Who Said Penthouse?

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
A two level apartment in best “fifty shades of grey” style! Not only does this apartment come with a stunning view, it also has a Terrace, Jacuzzi, swimming pool and sauna, you can even order breakfast if you feel like it! If they can guarantee a visit from Mr. Grey I’m moving in! Over the top apartment €500 Pr. Night

4# Panorama View!

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No worries, I’ll just spend the rest of my days on the couch, who needs a T.V. anyway with this view?! This gorgeous Villa has a full panorama view over the beach, an exclusive private pool, lounge area with a pool table and if you’re up for it a huge piano! If you want pure luxury and relaxation this is the spot! LUXURY HOUSE WITH SWIMMING POOL €1100 Pr. Night

5# Heaven In The Middle Of Barcelona!?

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
Did we just discover heaven on earth? OMG YES! This chic and trendy designer looking castle is centered in the Golden neighborhood in Barcelona! 5-10 walk from the beach, killer terrace (by that I mean like humongous terrace!) and there’s room for 7 people (so you can bring your friends!). Old-world style meets modern life in this completely renovated apartment, with perfectly preserved 18th century façade of the building. City vacation on a whole new level! The Modernist €600 Pr. Night

6# Feeling Adventures?

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
600 acres of absolute privacy! This Mansion offers 360 degrees of breathtaking views, enormous heated pool and huge terrace. With 400 square meters of living space and perfect location you should be able to sit down and enjoy the sweet life of Barcelona (or worry that you might get lost!). Whether you’re the active or “relaxing” type of person, this place gives you the opportunity to do both, the mansion is right up the Garraf National Park where you can go hiking/Biking, maybe visit the Buddhist Monastery or you can just stay home and drink some of the local wine! I’m ready to go! Are you? Casa Nova Estate, Sitges €2000 Pr. Night

7# Pool Party Anyone?

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
Perfect spot to work on your tan, maybe invite some friends over for Tapas? Oh Yes. 270 m2 of pure luxury in 2 floors, humongous bathroom (with Whirlpool tub!!!), awesome kitchen, great pool and terrace with your own BBQ Grill. Here you’re guaranteed a vacation in best Hollywood style! I want to live here! Don’t you?? Private villa at 3' of Sitges €500 Pr. Night

8# Casa Del Spain

Best Of AirBnb – Most Luxurious Rentals In Barcelona! Image
Did you ever wonder how it would be like to be a real Spanish Señorita or Señor? Well here’s your chance, this enormous castle has no less than 300 acres of private ground with 14 kilometers of private tracks where you will find pear, olive, cherry, walnut and almond trees even Xarello grapes which is used for its own brut nature and white wine! I’m feeling the Spanish charm! Don’t you?? Spanish villa like no other €1500 Pr. Night Did you enjoy the best of AirBnb? I know we did! Now we just have to win the lottery to get one of these beauties. Let us know which is your favourite in the comments below!




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