CERVECERIA CATALANA: THE BEST TAPAS IN BARCELONA?

SuiteLife’s Favourite Best Tapas in Barcelona: Cerveceria Catalana

Cerveceria Catalana is often referred to as one of the coolest restaurant to eat the best tapas restaurant in Barcelona, although if judged on the food alone this might not hold true, the whole experience of dinning there has made it a favorite of SuiteLifers looking to find the most enjoyable tapas in Barcelona experience.  It is one of the place that offers the best tapas restaurant in Barcelona, in the Eixample Barrio that is always popular with locals and tourists alike. Like many such joints that serve tapas in Barcelona, the restaurant itself seems small at first, probably because it is packed with people waiting for a table.  Once you’ve waited 30 minutes for your table and get in, you can see it's much bigger than you originally thought.  The bar is great and has a huge selection of premium-imported beers.  If you sit at the bar, you can simply point out the tapas you want to try from under the counter.  You can even drink beer and have a montadito or two while you wait for your table. The general decor of the restaurant is quite modern and elegant but it doesn’t feel too upper class; you would feel quite comfortable here wearing jeans and a t-shirt. Cerveceria Catalana: The Best Tapas in Barcelona? Image
As far as tapas in Barcelona goes, the food here is brilliant.  There is a varied selection of tapas and they are quite reasonably priced.  The best way to order like any tapas restaurant is to just start pointing at what you like off the menu.  Going for tapas is a very social experience in Spain, and so you generally order for the table and everyone shares. For some of our most recommended dishes, checkout our Top Tapas blog.  Although the tapas at Cerveceria Catalana are great, we wouldn't call it the absolute best tapas in Barcelona. Even though it doesn't get the crown as king of Barcelona tapas, it's for sure a runner up and our favourite place to take any and all out-of-town visitors. The drinks are also great, as mentioned earlier they have a great selection of premium-imported beers (kind of what you would expect from a restaurant named Cerveceria).  They also have good draft beers that come in big glasses if you want a slightly cheaper option.  The wine selection here is reasonable and mostly Spanish, but if you do go here you should definitely try the sangria.  So far its the best sangria I have had in Barcelona. Service here is spectacularly fast, an added bonus in a city where the service usually doesn't exceed the pace of a snail.  If you get over the fact you're going to have to wait, then you will have a very pleasant experience in terms of service.  Most of the waiters/waitresses speak English and are very friendly. Cerveceria Catalana: The Best Tapas in Barcelona? Image

One of the best tapas in Barcelona that are Actually Worth the Wait

As this is such a popular restaurant for the best tapas in Barcelona there is almost always a wait for a table.  At Cerveceria Catalana they won't let you call up and make a reservation.  When it is busy it's completely normal to wait for about 30-60 minutes; I waited 40.  The good thing is that once you have put your name on the waiting list you can have a nice drink form the bar and, if you're lucky enough to find a seat at the bar, try some tapas while you wait.  Or you could do as I did and go to a less crowded bar for a bit and come back when it’s your turn to be seated. A SuiteLife tip is they have two waiting lists, one for outside and one for inside.  Put your name on both and you'll be guaranteed the shortest wait possible! Either way, the wait is well worth it. Map More amazing restaurants in Barcelona. If you have any comments or know of any must-try best tapas in Barcelona, we would love to hear about it. Please leave a comment below. ~ Matthew Rutter

ORIGINAL VERSION CINEMA IN BARCELONA

Where can I find English Cinemas in Barcelona?

Whether you’re on holiday and looking for a quiet night out or living in Barcelona and hungry for a taste of home, its always nice to catch up on the latest movies on the big screen. But if you can’t speak the language or, like me, absolutely despise dubbing, it can be difficult to find the original version of films…but only if you don’t know where to look. So we’ve done the work for you! Read on for a list of  English VO cinemas in Barcelona. Original Version Cinema in Barcelona Image

Cines Verdi

Verdi, and its smaller counterpart Verdi park just opposite, offers a diverse program of independent cinema. It is mostly European and Asian focussed but you never know what might pop up on the schedule! This cinema offers film in their original language, not always English, with Spanish subtitles - a great way to learn a bit of the language as well as have fun. It is just up in Gracia, easily accessible by metros Fontana (L3) or Joanic (L4) and surrounded by plenty of bars and restaurants for the perfect pre/post cinema bite to eat. Prices vary between €4.50 and €9 depending which day you decide to go. Monday’s are by far the cheapest at half the price of the weekend showings. Carrer Verdi, 32, Gracia, Barcelona, 08012.

Yelmo Icaria

Located right near the old port (the perfect place for a post-film stroll) this cinema has 15 screens in total - more than enough to keep you entertained! It is easily accessible from the metro Ciutadella Vila Olímpica (L4) which is just 3 blocks walk away. Prices range from €5 to €9 and the best day to visit is on a Wednesday. Carrer Salvador Espiriu 61, Barcelona, 08005

Cinema Malda

Right in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, this cinema is nestled right amongst the old streets of Barcelona. The best thing about this particular cinema is that for a fixed price per day you can watch as many films as you like! Not all will be in English but hey, there’s always room to expand your horizons. Prices range from €4.50 to €9 with Wednesday being the cheapest day but when you can watch multiple films for around €5 you’ll be getting your money’s worth any day you decide to visit this cinema. It is slap bang in between Liceu (L3) and Jaume I (L4) so you can’t miss it, right in the centre of the city. Carrer del Pi, 5, 08002. Original Version Cinema in Barcelona Image

Renoir Floridablanca

This cinema offers a wide range of VO films, mostly European with some American movies in the mix, so you’ll have a range of languages to choose from if you don’t fancy something in English. Close to a variety of restaurants on the border where Raval meets Sant Antoni, you’re bound to find somewhere to grab a bite to eat before or after the film. Prices range from €5 to €9. This cinema is accessible from the metro stations Universitat (L1) and Sant Antoni (L2) but if you prefer to drive, there is one hour of free parking at Parking Urgell. Carrer Floridablanca, 144, Barcelona, 08015

Melies Cinemas

Melies prides itself on offering the best that auteur cinema has to offer, whether that is English-speaking or otherwise. You’ll find it in Eixample, close to the metro stations Urgell and Hospital Clinic. Prices are between €4 and €7, with Monday being the cheapest day to visit. Carrer Villaroal 102, Barcelona, 08011 Original Version Cinema in Barcelona Image

Cinemes Girona

With just 3 screens this cinema in Eixample will feel distinctly intimate making for a unique atmosphere and as its a little out of the way you shouldn’t find yourself battling through tourists to get in which can sometimes be the case when looking for English cinemas in Barcelona! Prices are between €6.50 and €8.50. Carrer Girona, 175, Barcelona, 08037

Filmoteca de Catalunya

With an array of classic films to choose from, you won’t run out of options at the Filmoteca de Catalunya. It has a massive variety of movies spanning all decades and ranging across the international film scene so whether you’re looking for something in English or looking to do a bit of listening practice with other languages this might be just the cinema for you. Located right between Rambla de Raval and La Rambla, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from should you ever be able to tear yourself away from the big screen. Plaça de Salvador Seguí, 1-9, Barcelona, 08001. So whether you’re a tourist looking to spend a little time out of the Mediterranean sun, an expat longing to hear your own language in surround sound or just a film buff looking to catch up on the best that international cinema has to offer, check out these cinemas in Barcelona and let us know what you end up watching - we’d love to hear your recommendations! - Erin

PARTY IN BARCELONA: CHASING THE PARTY – NASTY MONDAYS

Party in Barcelona: Chasing the Party - Nasty Mondays

Party in Barcelona: Chasing the Party – Nasty Mondays Image
Nasty Mondays is by far one of the best party in Barcelona and in our opinion it reigns supreme over all other Barcelona clubs. Admittedly, Monday night is not when most people go out to rage, however, that's one aspect of what makes this party so amazing. There aren't any amateur weekend partiers here.  The crowd, although quite eclectic, is interested in one thing only, dancing up a storm at the most unique party in Barcelona with arguably the best music and atmosphere going. We're not sure exactly where it got it's name, but we do know one thing, if you have to work the following day or sit through hours of early morning classes, it's a nasssty experience.  This party might kill you for the rest of the week, but simply stated, it's more than worth it. Wait! Have you never heard of Nasty Mondays? Shame on you! But don't worry! We spent many nights there, we've experienced it in all its glory, felt its beating sexy sweaty pulse, and we're gonna tell you everything you need to know about what might be considered the best Monday night in the world. Barcelona clubs will never be the same again.

Nasty Mondays: How Did it All Begin?

To understand what the Nasty Mondays party is all about, it is important to briefly talk about how it all began! It was 2004 when a guy called Soren Manzoni, skater, surfer, collector of vintage stuff - from robot toys to pinball machines - and addicted to music got together with Max Ochoa to create something that Barcelona clubs had never seen before!  Influenced by their life-style, they created a party that combines a perfect selection of music, a rock star stage for the DJs, and a lot of improvisation. As years went by, the party grew bigger and moved the Sala Apolo - one of the biggest Barcelona clubs - and also gained international attention. Besides his constant search for "new old stuff" around the flee market 'Los Encantes', Soren stared traveling more and more to New York, which brought even more identity to the party. Nowadays, Nasty Mondays brings together almost 1500 people every Monday and every month it crosses the ocean for its New York edition! Party in Barcelona: Chasing the Party – Nasty Mondays Image
Though very famous now, Soren and Max still have the formula that we love: no gimmicky DJ tricks from the no fancy special effects. Nasty Mondays is simply about the right song at the right time and having fun.

The Club

Getting there is easy! The Sala Apolo is located at Calle Nou de la Rambla, 112, and it is easily reached by metro. If you take the purple (L2) or the green (L3) line and hop off by Station Paral-lel you are just a few meters away from the entrance. It is impossible to miss it, you will immediately notice the line organized by the security guards. As the party starts at 00:00 it is wise to get there before 01:00 to avoid queues. We got there around half-past midnight and in 5 minutes we were inside. They will probably ask for your ID,  so BRING it! There is no such thing as dress-code, but if you get there wearing some clubs jersey, flip-flops or a camouflage cargo shorts (a guy was kicked out in front of us because of that) you might have problems. The entrance is 14 € and includes a drink. So far so good!  We were in and ready to party! The first room when you enter called La[2] and is not the main part of the party. There, the DJ Kosmos and DJ Dr. Cartagena play a mixed of new electro and fidget house, with a touch of hip-hop. To be honest, we didn't spend much time there though the music and mood were very good. We wanted to go as soon as possible to the main dish! So some stairs up and there you are! Sala Apolo is a old-theater style club, which is an essential ingredient to the party! Once you are on the dance-floor you can see the DJs on the stage, just like rock stars, and when you look above you see the upper part, a balcony that has a full view of the dance floor and stage. The bars are usually crowed, and it might take a few minutes to get a drink. That's what happened when we went for our "free" drink - whether it is a Rum-Cola, Vodka-Red Bull, Whiskey-Red Bull - you will be surprised, they pour the drinks very strong making the paid entrance worth even more. Party in Barcelona: Chasing the Party – Nasty Mondays Image
With time, the place became more crowed, but it was never a problem, unless you try to be right in front of the DJs. There, people go crazy, dance and jump like in a rock n' roll concert, and despite getting very sweaty and squeezed it is pretty fun. In the middle of the dance-floor you also experience the adventure of the smokers! As the place has no smoking area, the smokers try their luck hiding from the securities and smoking with their heads down. We didn't witness anyone getting busted, but if want to try doing it, take a lot of care, because the securities guards are not polite AT ALL. And there lies the downside in our opinion. Don't expect "please" or "thank you". We witnessed their rudeness to a lot of people. Of course we can not generalize, but from what we saw, it is a downside.

Music And Other Crazy Stuff

Ok and the music? Isn't it what a party is all about? You are right! Nasty Mondays won't disappoint you! Well, do you like The Strokes? Do you like Rolling Stones? Joy Division? Rage Against the Machine? So, that's just a few of what you gonna get there! The variety goes from rock n' roll from the 50's to the 80's getting to 90's grunge, with hint of new age and all this mixed with recents indie and electrorock hits! Party in Barcelona: Chasing the Party – Nasty Mondays Image
We cannot forget to mention the all the crazy things that happen on the stage! While Soren and Max are playing, drinking Jack Daniels and acting like rock stars, a bunch of pretty girls are dancing and showing themselves to the crowd. And it can get even better! If you are lucky enough (or check in the website, which is more clever) you can be there when a Shitty Sessions is happening! It is a photograph session that takes place on the stage, just behind the DJs! Now, can you imagine what happens in these photos? Just try to put together loud rock and roll, alcohol and crazy people that you might get a bit of it! You can check it, just click here! Our verdict about Nasty Mondays? Don't think twice, go for it, feel it like we did! We are sure you are gonna love it! Now you have your Monday nights guaranteed! How to recover on Tuesday while sitting hungover at your desk? Well, that's another blog idea... What about Tuesday, Wednesday…Sunday? Any suggestions? Wait! Are you still considering staying at home next Monday? We really hope not! Because that's what CHASING THE PARTY is all about: finding the clubs, reporting to you and making you experience it! It will be a series of posts about the exciting nightlife in Barcelona, we will chase the parties, no matter if it summer or winter, sunny or rainy. We are going to find the ones that are rocking our city the hardest. After all, there is nothing like a local DJ. Want to know more about Nasty Mondays and some party in Barcelona? Check this video! http://vimeo.com/50067417

Pratical Information for Party in Barcelona

NASTY MONDAYS Local: Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 113 Metro Station: Paral-lel Day of the week: Monday Price: 13 €  in advance / 14 € - at door - cash or card http://nastymondays.com/ Cheers! Jack

SPORTS SHOPS IN BARCELONA: FOR ALL YOUR SPORTING NEEDS

Sports Shops in Barcelona: Where to find the best of them?

Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports Shops in Barcelona cater to all kinds of different sports.  So if you're a runner or a surfer or anything in-between then, we have got you covered.  Read on to find the Sports shop in Barcelona that is right for you. Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports shops in Barcelona - Decathlon

Decathlon shops are some of the largest sports shops in Barcelona.  They have all kinds of different sports equipment and clothing, so you will be sure to find what you are looking for.  You can buy anything from roller blades to football kits.  Decathlon is also very cheap, they may not have the best quality Sports equipment but it is great value.  There are a few Decathlon stores in Barcelona including one right in the centre just off Las Ramblas. Check their website over here: Website Check the map to get there: Map Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports shops in Barcelona - Esports Nuria Barcelona

This shop has a good range of sports equipment, although it is not quite as big as Decathlon.  Esports Nuria is a great shop for swimmers as they sell all you would need for swimming in the Mediterranean or just in your local pool. Check their website over here : Website Check the map to get there: Map Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports Shops in Barcelona - Inercia

Inercia is a more specialised sports shops in Barcelona.  They sell skate boards, long boards and roller blades along with any equipment that you need/ want with them.  If you like these extreme sports then Inercia is a great place to go.  They have high end products, which are a little expensive.  Although I would say they are worth the money.  The staff are very friendly and helpful and most of them can speak reasonably good English. Check their website over here : Website Check the map to get there : Map

Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports Shops in Barcelona - La General Surfera

This is another specialised sports shops in Barcelona, specialising in Surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding.  This sports shop sells high-end goods and brands, making it quite expensive.  It’s a very hip place that is perfect for you if you like to look good on your skateboard/snowboard/surfboard.  La General Surfera is quite large and they have a good selection of extreme sport clothing and equipment. Check their website over here : Website Check the map to get there : Map Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image

Sports Shops in Barcelona - Adidas

There are also a couple of good Adidas shops in Barcelona.  One of them is an Adidas originals shop, which is more of a sporty fashion shop.  You can find this one in the Gotico area.  There is also an Adidas shop on Passeig de Grácia, which can be described as more of a sports shop.  It has a good selection of sporting clothing and equipment for sports such as running and football.  It is not one of the biggest sports shops in Barcelona but in this shop it’s all about quality not quantity. Sports Shops In Barcelona: For All Your Sporting Needs Image
If you know of any other great Sports shops in Barcelona or have any comments we would love to hear them. Cheers Matthew Rutter

THE MOST FAMOUS CATALAN ARTISTS

Let's Talk About Art: Famous Catalan Artists

Dear SuiteLifers, as you might have already realized art in Barcelona is a booming activity. The city is filled with artists who express themselves in many ways through painting, sculpture, architecture or music. You can easily run into some people drawing in the streets or performing music somewhere. In the coming posts we'd like to give you a little insight into some of the Famous Catalan People, first of all introducing some of Catalunya’s most respected and famous Catalan artists. These famous Catalan artists obviously had a great impact on the city itself and the artistic life in Barcelona.

THE TOP3 MOST FAMOUS CATALAN ARTISTS AND PAINTERS

1.   SALVADOR DALÍ (1904-1989)

The Most Famous Catalan Artists Image
Dalí was born in Figueres, Catalunya. He was one of the most defining surrealist painters of the 20th century. He was also influenced by many styles of art from academically classic - through cubism - to cutting-edge avant garde. Beyond his brilliant paintings he was also involved in sculpture, film-making and photography. He worked together with the famous Spanish surrealist director Luis Buñuel too, making the short film Un Chien Andalou and later L'Âge d'Or. He also collaborated with Alfred Hitchkock, and worked on a Disney cartoon production called Destino.

2.   JOAN MIRÓ (1893-1983)

The Most Famous Catalan Artists Image
He was born in Barcelona, the capital of Catalunya. He also did paintings, sculptures and ceramics, mainly influenced by surrealism and dada. You can see his art all around the city, for example on Las Ramblas, Parc de Joan Miró and obviously in the Fundació Joan Miró in Montjuïc, Barcelona. As one of the most famous Catalan artists, some of Miró’s work manifests the Catalán pride.

3. ANTONI TÁPIES (1923- )

The Most Famous Catalan Artists Image
Tàpies is also from Barcelona and one of the most famous European painters of our time. In his early work he was influenced by Joan Miró and Paul Klee, but soon became an informal artist, working in a style called “pintura matérica”- which means that the paintings may consist of some non artistic materials too. Later he got into Pop art, incorporating more unusual materials into his painting such as parts of furniture. He is also interested in sculpture and lithography. We could say that his work is associated with abstract expressionismtachisme as well. Tàpies is still living in Barcelona, where is the Fundació Tàpies located, dedicated to his life and work. Among the top famous Catalan artists it is difficult not to mention architectures who embody and epitomise the style and character of Barcelona, which is very famous for its buildings. It is therefore important to list the TOP 3 Catalán architects as well, to show their impact on Barcelona’s arhitecture. Why dont you check out our cool series on Barcelona Architecture & Catalán Modernism? It includes the work of Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Lluis Domenech i Muntaner, and naturally Antoni Gaudi - who's very famous work, the Sagrada Familia was consacred by the Pope in 2010.

BARCELONA SIGHTS: THE BUNKER

Barcelona Sights: The Bunker Image
As most of you know, there are tons of Barcelona sights. Luckily, there are still a few "secret" places, not overtaken by tourists. I was taken to one of them by a Catalan friend of mine, born and raised here and therefore full of inside knowledge about the city. Barcelona Sights: The Bunker Image
The Bunker, located at the top of Rovira in the Carmel barrio is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon with your friends or your couple. And yeah - the bunker is more than just a nickname - the place is a remains of an old air raid civil war bunker. It was built in 1937 and has been renovated in the past few years. Renovated in sense that it's clean and safer than before, the sight still has its own unique vibe. Moreover, there are tons of graffiti improving the ambient atmosphere. Barcelona Sights: The Bunker Image
I must admit, the sunset view from the top of the mountain is very romantic. There's a 360º sight of Barcelona, which in my opinion is much better than the one from Montjuic. You can see absolutely everything - the vastness of the sea, the narrow streets of Barcelona, the city lights and the high mountain peaks. If you are a photography lover, this is the place to take amazing pictures of Barcelona! Barcelona Sights: The Bunker Image
So, the most important question - how to get there? You can see the location of the place on the map. The closest metro stop is Alfons X (L4, yellow) and from then on you can either walk or take a bus for two stops. Barcelona Sights: The Bunker Image
Interesting fact about the spot I chose to present to you - the Spanish rock band Nothink chose that particular sight in Barcelona for their music video of the song In a Row. Even if you are not the biggest rock fan you might like the video just for the astonishing location! I hope my words inspire you enough to go and check out the place yourself. If you have any tips about other cool Barcelona sights - drop a line in the comment section below! Cheers, Ivo

BARCELONA POST OFFICE (CORREOS): HOW TO USE IT?

Barcelona Post Office - All you need to know about it!

Barcelona Post Office can be very confusing and scary to an English Speaker,especially if you don't speak Spanish at all or if you have a very limited knowledge about it.  So at SuiteLife we want to make it easier for you to use the Barcelona Post Office by telling you all you need to know.Barcelona Post Office (Correos): How to use it? Image
Barcelona post office, and the Spanish post office (Correos) in general has always had a bad reputation and been widely renowned for slow delivery. However, in recent years, they have had vast improvements.  In Barcelona, the central Post Office can be located on “Plaça Antonio López” near the marina, just at the bottom of Via Laietana, and there are nearly 40 sub-postal offices dotted around the city.  See map .  Most of Barcelona post office have information services, sell stamps and can be used to send and receive letters, packages, telegrams, etc. If you simply want to send a letter then you can buy stamps in tobacco shops, which are all over the city, and then simply post the letter in one of the yellow post boxes spread around the city and outside post offices.  There are also specific boxes for local, national and international letters. At the post office in Barcelona the staff are generally pretty helpful, but if you don’t speak any Spanish or Catalan, it can be a little confusing and difficult.  Most of the Barcelona post offices staff speak little or no English, so you may need to go with a few phrases prepared.

My experience in the Barcelona Post office

I recently had to send a package to California, and all I could say was that I wanted to send a package to the united states and that I don’t have a box.  It seemed like everything went well.  A nice lady asked me in Spanish which size box I wanted, which I didn’t really understand until she pointed to the selection of different sized boxes.  She then pointed at a section on the box where I need to fill I the address I was sending the package and my own address.  Once I had done this, I went to a man and said I wanted to send the box I had to the United States and asked if I had filled it in correctly, both things I said in very basic Spanish.  He seemed to understand and said that I had indeed filled it out correctly.  I then tried to ask how long it would take for the package to get to its destination, and I asked for the “mas rapido” (quick).  He seemed to understand and proceeded to explain in quick flowing Spanish how the postal service works, which left me pretty confused, and all I could take from what he had said was that he wasn’t sure how long it would take.  So I then asked for the Urgent stamp, which was “mas rapido” and asked how much it was.  It turned out much cheaper than I expected, which could mean it wont be “mas rapido” at all, but the good new is that the package was sent.  A week later I have yet to receive confirmation that the package has reached its destination. Barcelona Post Office (Correos): How to use it? Image

Helpful Vocabulary for the Barcelona Post Office

Now you can get through this process with little or no Spanish, but if you don't feel like waving your arms around a lot and trying to express yourself through charades the following vocabulary might make your life a bit easier: I'd like to send this to ________ = Quiero enviar esto a ___________ How fast will it get there? = Cuanto tiempo durará en llegar? Is there a faster option?  = Hay opción más rápido? How much will it be?  = Cuanto será? How much is the fastest delivery option? = Cuanto será la opción más rápido? Is there a tracking number? = Hay número de seguimiento? I want to buy insurance for the package = Quiero comprar seguros por el paquete I need a box = Necesito una caja

Basic Information About the Barcelona Post Office

Central Post Office (Correos) Plaça del Antonio López, 1 Tel: 902 197 197 / 933 183 048 Fax: 93 322 20 00 / 933 213 100 Metro: Jaume I or Barceloneta Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am-9.30pm. Saturday 8.30am-2.30pm. Correos Website Hopefully this article will help ease your experience at the Barcelona post office.  If you have any more questions or think there's some valuable vocabulary we've missed out on let us know and we'll update the entry! Cheers, ~Matt

BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL!

BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image

BBQ IN BARCELONA: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW!

With such beautiful weather, what could be better than a BBQ in Barcelona with some cervezas and loads of meat? Yes, I am a grilling fanatic! So in the last weeks I started looking for information on the internet, typing “barbacoa barcelona” “barcelona barbacoa” “grill barcelona”. It took me a lot of time to find a good place, but at the end I did it! So, I've done all the hard work for you - just read on to find the best BBQ spots in BCN.

IS IT LEGAL TO HAVE A BBQ IN BARCELONA?

First of all, I’d like to tell you about the Spanish law, what we are allowed to do and what we're not. Well, what I found is pretty damn confusing! It seems to be illegal to have a BBQ in Barcelona within the city limits. In other words, you cannot set up a fire in the middle of Ciutadella Park, for example. But for grills on your private balcony or terrace there is no restrictive law. But you might have to deal with your neighbors, that’s for sure! I have no terrace, so I decided to take my friends to to a place which sounded really interesting: just out of the city, totally equipped, one of those Barcelona Barbacoa places where you just need to bring your food.

FONT LES PLANES – RESTAURANTE Y MERENDERO

Well, we loved it here! Font Les Planes Restaurante y Merendero is a bar-restaurant, yes, but it’s also a merendero. They rent seats and grills (and wood and all the equipment, course) for a few euros per hour.It’s always open 9am to 7pm. BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image
The location is amazing, it’s in Collserola Park, really well served by FGC trains from Catalunya and Gracia. It takes just 15-20 minutes to get there, at Les Planes stop, but you feel like you’re so far from the city! Collserola Park is beautiful and quiet, you get out of the train and find yourself surrounded by nature! BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image

AN INTERESTING ALTERNATIVE

I haven’t tried this place yet, but it’s also easily reachable. It’s called Parc de la Trinidad and it’s a center for recreation with a BBQ and picnic zone. You can get there by Metro L1 “Trinitat Vella”. BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image
It works exactly the same, you just need to bring your own food and drinks! If you guys try out a different place not listed here, please leave me a feeback so we can add it to this blog! BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image
Do you know any other places where to have a BBQ in Barcelona? Please let us know in the comments below ! BBQ IN BARCELONA: IT’S TIME TO SET UP THE GRILL! Image
Have a nice and tasty weekend! - - Elio - -

PARKING GRATUITO EN BARCELONA : ¡MEJORES ASTUCIAS!

Parking Gratuito en Barcelona: Tu Guia

Parking Gratuito en Barcelona : ¡Mejores Astucias! Image
Parking gratuito en Barcelona: Vienes a pasar unos días en Barcelona y te llevas el coche? Aquí como en todas las demás ciudades grandes no es nada fácil aparcar, hasta puede ser una misión imposible ! Con este blog intentaré informarte sobre los mejores parking gratuitos en Barcelona. Si deseas rentar un apartamento por un corte periodo mientras estés en Barcelona: SuiteLife

Weekends: Parking Gratuito en Barcelona

Para empezar, es bueno saber que durante los fines de semana puedes aparcar gratis en Barcelona, a lo largo de las carreteras. Sólo averigua que este el panel “Prohibido aparcar Laborables de dilluns a divendres 8-20h”

Parking La Maquinista

El centro comercial La Maquinista posee un parking subterráneo con 4.800 plazas gratuitas, todas ubicadas en las 2 plantas subterráneas del Centro Comercial, ¡gratuito y sin límite de tiempo! Lo único es que cierra por la noche. Pero, también hay un parking exterior abierto 24/24h y totalmente gratuito donde puedes dejar tu coche. Dirección: Calle Potosí, 2. 08030 Barcelona Metro: Torras i Bages (L1) Parking Gratuito en Barcelona : ¡Mejores Astucias! Image

Parking Ikea

Muy pocos suelen pensar en los parkings de los almacenes, sin embargo puede ser una alternativa a los aparcamientos pagadores en Barcelona. El Parking Ikea Direccion: Calle ciencias, 100. 08907 Hospitalet de Llobregat Metro: Hospital de Bellvitge (L1)

Avenida Diagonal

Otra solución, es aparcar su coche gratuito en un barrio de la Avenida Diagonal. Esta avenida es grande pero al final de esta, en el barrio “Pedralbes” (barrio burgués de Barcelona), hay pequenas calles donde es posible dejar su coche en seguridad y de forma gratuita (calle Muntaner, Villaroel o Borell).

Parc Ciutadella

Detrás del parque de la Ciutadela, en la calle Ramón Turro es posible aparcar su coche gratuitamente, igual si subes hasta la Rambla Poblenou.

Zona Universitaria

Si llegas a Barcelona por la noche y que tienes suerte, puedes encontrar en la Zona Universitaria algunas plazas libres donde aparcar tu coche sin gastar un euro.

Montjuic

Cerca de la Fundación Miro, en Montjuic, hay muchas plazas de aparcamiento gratis. Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona, Espagne

Calle Icaria

A 30 minutos caminando de la Rambla y a 5 mn en metro (Vila Olimpica L4, Urquinaona L1) en la calle Icaria puedes encontrar un parking gratuito en Barcelona.

Parking Viajeros

Este no es gratuito pero ofrece precios más baratos que en los demás aparcamientos de Barcelona. El coche se aparca en un parking subterráneo vigilado. Además el staff habla inglés, francés, portugués y español (práctico para los turistas). 28€ por 4 días (mínimo de 4 días) 7€ / días suplementarios (abierto 24/24h , reserva previamente en linea para beneficiar del tarifa 7€/dia ) www.parkingviajeros.com Dirección: Carrer Carreras i Candi, 65 Metro: Badal (L5), Mercat Nou (L5, L1) En cuanto a los los parkings públicos y pagadores de Barcelona, están administrados por la compañía BSM. En su página internet puedes encontrar una mapa de la ciudad en la cual todos los parkings están localizados. Los precios son bastantes caros (2,89€/hora 37,45€/dia) pero algunos ofrecen abonos interesantes.

Si te multan en Barcelona ¡ no pagues la multa de tráfico !

El Ayuntamiento sigue incumpliendo la normativa de las señales de tráfico: señalezar en Catalán Y en Castellano Parking Gratuito en Barcelona : ¡Mejores Astucias! Image
Cualquier persona que haya sido sancionado con multas de aparcamiento puede recurrir por vía administrativa al Consistorio y exigir la devolución de la sanción. En efecto, las señales de tráfico en Barcelona y en prácticamente toda Cataluña siguen incumpliendo con la normativa legal vigente, que establece que deben estar en los dos idiomas oficiales de la Comunidad. Actualmente, solo están en catalán. ¡Pero el Ayuntamiento de Barcelona prefiere no cobrar las multas de tráfico a señalizar en Castellano! Si conoces otros parkings gratuitos en Barcelona, no vaciles en dejarnos un comentario! ~Orlane~

BARCELONA’S MOST FAMOUS MUSICIANS – OJOS DE BRUJO

Barcelona's Most Famous Musicians - Ojos de Brujo

Barcelona’s Most Famous Musicians – Ojos de Brujo Image
Ojos de Brujo originated in Barcelona. the group’s name ('Eyes of the Sorcerer') refers to a way of looking at the world and everything in it with a certain degree of depth and wisdom, something similar to reading between the lines, as the group members explained. Some of Barcelona's most famous musicians, they formed the group Ojos de Brujo in 1996 after continuous jam sessions in the Raval neighbourhood, where the founders often used to meet at Carrer dels Escudellers number 6 with a lot of other now world famous musicians. The place turned into a Mecca for all kinds of musicians from North Africa, Southern Europe, and Latin America. People used to meet each other and improvise or even perform live in the streets for free.
Great names came out of this melting pot, making some of Barcelona's most famous musicians such as Manu Chao, Macaco, Che Sudaka, Amparanoia and of course Ojos de Brujo. And the list goes on. The sound of the band comes from this melting pot, the basic source is Flamenco and the fusion is accomplished by a range of influences from Indian tablas, drum and bass, hip hop, and many other sounds such as the Cuban or Caribbean warmth that is very noticeable on their latest album Aocana. Ojos de Brujo consist of eight people which are:
Barcelona’s Most Famous Musicians – Ojos de Brujo Image


After their first album which was brought out by a multinational they soon discovered the needed to bring out their own label and take matters into their own hands: Fabrica de colores was born. In 2002 their second album, Bari, came out on their own label, Fabrica de colores. This move to have more control over their work paid off. This album was highly acclaimed and well received internationally. A promotional tour of their albums took them to festivals around the world, to the United States of America, Mexico, Japan, Canada, Colombia, Morocco, Portugal, Cuba, Hungary, France, Germany, Holland, Denmark, Norway, Italy and many other countries. Nowadays Ojos de Brujo from Barcelona are touring the world and have played on every continent. They won music awards and played at major festivals. In April last year they released their fourth album. The titles of their albums are in Calo the gypsy language. After “Vengue” a “calo“ word for the Spanish word “duende” which refers to a presence of a unified feeling that occurs when flamenco music is being played. The second album “Bari” ("joya, esencia y virtud" en caló) which means jewel, essence, and virtue and their third album “Techari” which means “libre” in Spanish, free in English.
Barcelona’s Most Famous Musicians – Ojos de Brujo Image
On the 20th of February of 2006 they brought out their third album Techari, which was a collaboration of multiple disciplines of artists and musicians that share the common goal of unifying the emotions of flamenco and other styles of music and art. They work with like minded, free spirited people capable of bringing new colours to the world and have collaborated with Nitin Sawhney and Pepe Habichuela amongst others. They brought out a deluxe edition with graffiti art and a DVD of their concert in Barcelona, and also a documentary about the band with extras. Their fourth and latest album “Aocana”, which means ‘right now’, has a more warm Caribbean sound to it thanks to the new band member, Carlitos Sarduy. He started as a temporary substitute and has grown into the group. He also is the father of Maria's child and an important member of Ojos de Brujo, Barcelona's most famous musicians.
Check out the Ojos de Brujo site!


Track from the third album "Techari"  Corre Lola Corre http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYawfCxGaYE!




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