Business Schools in Barcelona - What You Need to Know!

I honestly couldn't believe how many business schools in Barcelona there are when I first arrived to the city. For a relatively small city (about 1.5 Million) the plethora of schools, and also the astounding quality of some of them, is quite impressive. A couple of the business schools are actually at the top of the world rankings.  A lot of these schools give you the opportunity to study  in English, Spanish or even in other languages and this is one of the reasons why Barcelona is exceedingly international.  On the street, just as in the SuiteLife offices, you can meet people from every part of the world.  I suppose the city is just that attractive. With the mediterranean climate, the close proximity of the beach and mountains, and the cultural richness there are a lot of bonuses to making Barcelona the city where you decide to study business. What is important for a lot of people coming here to study is possibility for future - Barcelona is one of the world's leading tourist, economic, trade fair/exhibitions and cultural-sports centres, and its influence in commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities! So don't wait any longer and choose one of the Business Schools in Barcelona to study for yourself! We've listed them here so you can get an idea of which school might fit you best.

BUSINESS SCHOOLS IN BARCELONA:

IESE

Business Schools in Barcelona are a dime a dozen, but this one is undeniably the best, and one of the best in the world as well. The Graduate Business School of the University of Navarra provides management education, developing and inspiring business leaders who strive to make a deep, positive and lasting impact on the people, companies and society they serve. You will gain here the global experience. IESE’s alumini are an international community of more than 40,000 business and non-profit professionals and entrepreneurs spanning over 100 countries. The astronomical tuition to study at IESE is enough to keep you from sleeping at night, but all I can say is in this case the money is worth the world class education which you can gain in this institution, not to mention the contacts you can make while studying there. The total fee for the program is €95,000, but don't let that amount discourage you from applying! Financial support is available - financial aid includes: help with getting a loan and scholarships. The Global Executive MBA is a highly selective program that seeks la creme de la creme. Profile requirements of a candidate is demanding:

• A minimum of ten years of work experience, with relevant managerial experience
• Strong career progression
• Bachelor-equivalent degree
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
• Solid analytical skills
• Proven ambition to succed
• The ability to commit to a rigorous academic program.

If you think that you are the perfect match, check the admission requirements and more about this Business School in Barcelona. Address: Av. Pearson 21 08034 Barcelona

UIBS - United International Business Schools

Another of the notable Business Schools in Barcelona is UIBS Barcelona Business University - truly a vibrant and international community of 60+ nationalities from around the world. International study programs are designed to educate and train students to become well – versed in international business and management. The university provides students with highly practical skills and knowledge. The university provides Undergraduate Programs, Graduate Programs and Exacutive Programs. Program Fees are varied and depends of the credits which student wants to gain. Here you can find all prices in one place. Students have possibility to send their application all year round and the minimum entry requirements are: proficiency in english and adequate diploma. For more specific informacion, click here. Address: Rambla de Catalunya 2-4 08007 Barcelona

ESEI - International Business School Barcelona

Founded in 1989 and from that time has been driven by its passion for providing all-round, internationally-focused education that combines academic excellence in business studies with humanistic values to develop the character of students. It provides a variety of programmes where you can learn about world of the business. As well, it gives the possibility to gain valuable experience through internshipprogrammes, which you follow in a Barcelona company or you can have the chance to study in a Spanish language course. The admission process for undergraduate and master's degree appears to be very easy and well explained on the university website. If you think that this Business School in Barcelona could be your choice for future, you should find out what it's like to be an ESEI student - look at their blog and find more information about alumni, faulty, news, testimonials, student life and events. Address: Calle Montevideo 3108034 Barcelona

ESADE

Following closely on the heals of IESE, ESADE is hands down one of the best Business Schools in Barcleona and in the world as well. They also have an excellent law program. Their prestige is based on the quality of its education, its international focus and its holistic approach towards professional and personal skills development. All courses at this ESADE can found in one place, but pay attention as some of them are not available in Barcelona. It is worth mentioning that this university has different types of scholarships, prizes and grants which are not always available at other Business Schools in Barcelona. Address: Av. Esplugues, 92-96 08034 Barcelona

UPF - Universitat Pompeu Fabra Barcelona School of Management

Another top university, which is considered as one of the best in the city, in Spain and in the rest of the world, according to the rankings:

• 1st Spanish university according to the Times Higher Education Ranking (2013). The same ranking placed UPF in the top 100 European Universities (#72) and the top 200 worldwide (#164)
• 13th best university in the world under 50 years old according to the Times Higher Education Ranking (2014)
• In the top 400 universities according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities (2013). The top Spanish university in the area of Social Sciences

It has a modern, innovative view of management which everyone is looking for at this moment in the business field. It has different philosophies and perspectives than the more traditional business schools in Barcelona. Check by yourself why this university is a solid choice! Address:

Global Business School Barcelona

Their website claims to be the first university in Barcelona with a focus on the world. Global Business School Barcelona is an excellent place for students who are looking for innovative business degrees in Europe. The Business school's differentiators are: Global Focus, Business Ethnics & Sustainability, Employability, Modern University Style, Individual Approach. Programmes include Bachelor of Business Administration, MBA, Master Degree Programs and English Language Preparation. Address: Carrer Aragó 179 08011 Barcelona

Universitat de Barcelona

Maybe it is not one of the best business schools in Barcelona but why not to try some business courses in the Faculty of Economics and Business? This can be a good place to study  and develop your skills too. You can check out the faculty, but just to let you know, most of the information is provided only in Spanish or Catalan. Address: Diagonal, 690 8034 Barcelona

Barcelona GSE - Graduate School of Economics

The school aims to offer a wide range of professionally and academically-oriented degrees in economics and finance to graduate students committed to understanding the complex economic and financial processes of an increasingly global society. But not only different kinds of study programs are provided by School, check theirScientific research in Economics and Finance Address: Ramon Trias Fargas, 25-27 08005 Barcelona

TBS Barcelona Toulouse Business School

Don't be surprised reading the name of the School - it has three campuses - in Toulouse (France), Casablanca (moroccon) and here in Barcelona. The school gives you the chance to study in two countries and in various languages. In Barcelona they are promoting their Bachelor in Management, which enables students to earn an official French undergraduate degree and 2 masters: MSc Marketing and MSc Finance, both double degrees with local institution UPC. For more info look here. Address: Trafalgar, 10 08010 Barcelona

ESERP - School of Business & Social Science

Another one of the business schools in Barcelona with campuses in Madrid, Palma de Mallorca and in Barcelona. Check the Programme on the official site, and find the way to apply. Make sure that your course is taking part exactly in Barcelona. Address: Calle Girona, 24 08010 Barcelona

Geneva Business School

Geneva Business School is a leading Swiss business School with an international approach, dedicated to prepare world changing leaders for success. GBS encourages students to develop their full intellectual potential and to pursue excellence. The school provides Bechelor, Master, Doctorate, Online, Executive Programs and Summer Courses which give the opportunity to gain valuable business skills. Address: Munner 10, 08022 Barcelona

The Open University Business School

The Open University is the world's leading provider of flexible, high quality online degrees and distance learning. Students can study a single course or work towards a qualification, acquiring new skills that are immediately applicable to their work lives. The Open University Business School is one of the few business schools in Barcelona to have achieved triple international accreditation. In Spain you have possibility to take undergraduate or postgraduate courses. Check everything here.

EAE Business School

EAE Business School is currently ranked as the second best Business School in Spain in the 2014 MERCO Ranking. It is an International Higher Management Education Institution. With 50 years’ experience as a Business School, EAE has an international reputation, with people coming from 45 different countries to study there. Check their Graduate and Undergraduate Programes. Address: Aragó, 55 08015 - Barcelona

INSA - Business, Marketing & Communication School

The school offers a wide range of up-to-date training programs in different areas of the company, always responding to market needs, training professionals who are able to successfully enter the labor market thanks to the knowledge, practical and realistic training plan, taught by professionals. The university provides Bechelor, Degrees and Masters Programmes. All information is really clearly presented and easy to follow on the School website in the section "Studies". Address: Torrent de l’Olla, 208 08012 Barcelona

Studying in Barcelona provides the perfect blend of culture and fun, so what are you waiting for? Come  and study in one of the best Business Schools in Barcelon! If you know of any we missed please let us know in the comments!

~Natalia

How To Make A Spanish Omelette (aka Tortilla de Patatas) In Just 8 Steps!

How to make a Spanish Omelette like a chef in just 8 steps ? Tortilla de patatas; also known as Tortilla Española or Spanish Omelette, is one of the most well-known and delicious dishes in Spanish cuisine. If you're looking to make your own Barcelona Tapas, then this is an easy one to make, but a hard one to master. In restaurants it is usually served either as a tapa or inside a baguette. It goes great with any beverage from vino tinto to cava or an ice cold Coca-Cola. Feel like a filling and cheap meal but you don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen? Maybe you're a bit lazy, had a long day at work, or just can't wait to be able to master a few typical Spanish dishes. This is just the blog you needed, and after a bit of practice and attention to our Tortilla de patatas recipe, you'll be cooking like that Famous Ferran Adrià in no time!

How To Make A Spanish Omelette - Recipe:

All you need for a magnificent tortilla de patatas (serves 4 people) is:

• 3 Medium-sized potatoes
• 1 Onion (optional)
• 3 Eggs
• oil (olive oil, canola oil, sunflower oil are all good, but extra virgin olive oil will be tastiest)
• salt

That’s all folks, I’m telling you! Now, let’s check out those 8 simple steps to actually make that yummy tortilla Española:

1. First of all, you need to peel the onions and potatoes. That’s easy!
2. Then, cut the onions in small and thin pieces. Pour a trickle of oil in the frying pan and fry the onions until you see that they are turning a nice golden brown.
3. While the onions are frying, dice the potatoes, like you see in the picture below. Add seasoning of your choice, and add the potatos to the onions in the frying pan.

4. Over medium heat, fry them all together.  The flavors will start to mix and mingle. Continue stirring it until they turn slightly brown. 5. Now you are more than halfway with your Spanish Omelette. How easy is that ? Now remove the pan from the heat, and try to drain as much of the oil as possible without giving yourself 3rd degree burns. 6. Here come the eggs! Beat them in a bowl and add the potatoes and onions. 7. We’re almost done! If there’s no oil left in your frying pan, add a little bit. Then add the content of the bowl in the pan. Now cook your mixture first on high heat, until the eggs begin to solidify (about 30-45 seconds). Then switch to low heat until it's done. 8. Finally the tricky part: turn the tortilla de patatas over and continue cooking on low heat, so both sides turn brown. Spanish Omelette can be served hot or cold, how amazing is that ? the best ones are not overcooked and still maintain a bit of the runniness of the eggs!
Now we’re all set with the tortilla de patatas. It’s easy, I told you! You can add so many other ingredients, perhaps some vegetables, seasonings, the world is your oyster!! I’m a meat lover, so I might add some diced ham or bacon.. Mmmm. I know what I’m gonna have for dinner tonight! If you feel like making a kick-ass Spanish gazpacho soup as an accompanying starter, look no further! We also made a video of Suitelife Kitchen cooking the Spanish Omelette, check it out! Bon appétit! Yours, E

BEST 6 THINGS TO DO IN GRACIA DISTRICT

Gracia is located just a few step of Passeig de Gracia, but it is like entering a different world which is small, tight but has a large population with true artistic and traditional lifestyles, which makes people-watching here very amusing. From buildings and streets to plazas, many things in Gracia are on a smaller scale than those in the center of town. It is said that Gracia is self-sufficient, which means once you stay here, you don't need to leave because the area has everything you want: great bars, cafes, lovely restaurants, fashion stores, art galleries, cinema,...Suitelife introduces you the best 6 things to do in Gracia District- a diverse and entertaining area.

1. Carrer Verdi

The first thing in our Top things to do in Gracia district selection is having a stroll on Carrer Verdi. Small, tight, sloped but artistic, Carrer Verdi is one of the trendiest streets and is also host to some of the best nightlife spots in Barcelona. The street is packed with amazing atmosphere coming from many well-decorated friendly restaurants, quirky bars, independent fashion stores and local boutiques.

• Verdi82: Casual and cozy, Verdi82 has long been the favorite spot for young people and wine lovers. This small restaurant offers traditional Catalan cuisine and gluten free specialties with very good price.

• Cine Verdi: This is one of a few cinemas showing movies in original language (VO cinemas). The films on show in this cinema are a mixture between art house and new releases. Cine Verdi is an independent cinema, so it brings a different feeling from other multiplex cinemas in BCN. The screen and quality of movies shown here are very good and the seats are comfortable. This small and humble cinema has been voted by Time Out Magazine as the best cinema in Barcelona. The best part about Cine Verdi is that it is surrounded by various good restaurants and bars, which is perfect for going with friends and swapping opinions.

If you want more info Carrer Verdi, check out our blog Carrer Verdi Street Profile

2. Restaurants and bars

The central El Born and El Raval are the most well-known areas having big options in eating and drinking. But Gracia has the highest concentration of foreign restaurants in Barcelona. There are many options for dining and drinking ranging from elegant to casual. Here are some our recommendations:

• Botafumeiro: Located on Carrer de Gracia and founded in 1975, this restaurant is one of the best Catalan cuisine and traditional sea food restaurants in Barcelona. It offers the freshest product from the Cantabrian and Mediterranean seas. Each morning, the freshest sea food on the market is collected from harbors in Catalunya and Galicia, and served up just a few hours later. With its classic style setting, Botafumeiro is a great choice for fine dining. The restaurant has several rooms for couples, families, business meetings,... and a majestic bar.

• Con Gracia: One of the most well-known restaurants in the neighborhood is Con Gracia which is a small but luxury and romantic restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine with surprising oriental touch. Con Gracia receives very good reviews, especially for its creative and fusion cooking. Check their website for menu details in English, Catalan or Spanish.

• Gut: Gut is a small and nice restaurant having impeccable design in white. It offers great healthy and original food influenced by Mediterranean and Asian. It also serves great dishes for veggies.

• 
  Macchina Pasta Bar: For lunch and cheap eats in Gracia, Macchina Pasta Bar should not be missed, especially for those love pasta. Located on one of most charming streets in Gracia (Asturies 17), this pasta bar is an order-and-pay before you sit styled restaurant. The concept of Macchina is to let you choose type of pasta, sauce, toppings, desserts and drinks and bring them to your table. The staffs always make sure the pasta dishes are served in hot and delicious plates. If you want to try some local beer, Macchina has different choices for you. It has busy, relaxing and laid-back atmosphere with its vintage interior design with wood walls, glass bottle hanging lamps, bicycle on wall,...This gem is located just a few step from Fontana metro station and crowded with a mix of tourists and local people.

• La Vietnamita: This is another cheap eat option. Friendly, casual and have good menu for both veggies and meaty, La Vietnamita has become a frequent stop of many locals and visitors. This small and relaxing restaurant serves Vietnamese fast food with fresh, delicious quality and cheap price. Don't forget to try Bun Bo (Rice noodle with fresh vegetables & herbs, lemongrass marinated beef, peanuts and fish sauce), Goi Cuon (Rice paper rolls filled with vegetables, herbs, rice noodles and fish sauce) and especially the famous Banh My and Pho !

3. Admiring Gaudi's architecture - Park Guell and Casa Vicens

Barcelona means Gaudi and his architecture. Park Guell is the second most famous Gaudi's maspterpiece just after Sagrada Familia. The park is the main attraction in Gracia neighborhood and attracts a large number of visits each day. The park contains amazing stone structures, stunning tilling and fascinating buildings. Park Guell is the perfect combination between nature and architecture. It is a mixture of textures and decorative elements like rubble-surfaced arches, irregular-shaped pieces of ceramic,..., which shows fully Gaudi's imagination.
Casa Vicens is the first of Gaudi's buildings and it reflects his aesthetic when he began his work as a young man. This project has curving horseshoe arches as well as Persian and Byzantine details. It is now a family residence and you can enjoy it from the outside.
If you want to discover more about Gaudi's work, don't hesitate to check out our Barcelona Gaudi Guide.

4. Enjoying local vibe at Plaça del Sol, Plaça de la Virreina and Plaça del Diamant

These three Plaças are well-worth the visit, especially at night when you can feel the heat of Gracia. The square Plaça del Sol is very lively at nighttime with a bohemian vibe coming from skaters, musicians and street performers. You can see local young people sitting and having a cold beer while listening to guitar music. Plaça de la Virreina is a pretty square where you can sit on the steps of the church of Sant Joan on the north end and watch locals wandering. Last but not least, Plaça del Diamant is a square that the famous Mercé Rodoreda's The Time Of The Doves novel (La Plaça del Diamant) named after. This novel is the most widely translated and published Catalan novel of all time. The novel is a brutal story of a young woman devoured by the Spanish civil war. On one side of the square, there is a bronze statue of a woman waving her hands in the air in desperation, which portrays the novel's protagonist. There are many other beautiful Plaças in Barcelona, which you can know more in our blog The best 5 Plaças in Barcelona.

5. Being amazed by the colors of Gracia Festival

The Gracia festival is an incomparable free one-week festival in August each year. Lively, crowded and colorful, The Gracia festival is when you can see this barrio being transformed. Streets in this area are decorated and compete with each other to win the prize of being the best decorated street. The themes are from Roman history to Alice in Wonderland or underwater sea life. You will be amazed by the creativity while walking down each street. Moreover, throughout the festival, there are various music shows and concerts taking place as well as food stands which not let you leave hungry.

6. Gracia fashion

Fashion in Gracia is a mix of old, new, vintage, bohemian, traditional and trendy stores and boutiques. The area is youthful with a lot of students choosing to live here. There are a lot of independent stores in area, which makes having a stroll and window shopping in Gracia very interesting. Carrer Verdi, Carrer Torrijos, Gran de Gràcia, Travessera de Gràcia have many quirky fashion and accessories stores and boutiques that definitely should be visited. For women's fashion, check out Modeart, Philo, Boo, Mushi Mushi, Sueños Negros, Camisería Pons. For exclusive footwear, there is 2046 shoes.
You probably don't want to miss out our ebook Shopping in Barcelona which covers everything you need about Fashion stores in Barcelona. If you think there are many other things to do in El Born, then we would love to hear from you, let us know by a comment below. ~ Trang

Marsella: BarcelonaAbsinthe Bar - I've been twice, here's what I can remember

Marsella bar  in El Raval Barcelona is said to be "The oldest bar in Barcelona" and  is best known for it's dangerous selection of Absinthe, a super-duper strong  alcoholic 45–74% ABV beverage, which is an anise-flavoured spirit.  Absinthe is also referred to as "la fée verte" which means the "green fairy" in French. Opened in 1820, La Marsella Bar was a regular haunt for greats such as Dali, Picasso, Gaudi and Heminway who would pop in for a glass of the strong French spirit and soak up the atmosphere.

A journey back in time, see how Barcelona used to be!

I first discovered this bar when I had only been in Barcelona for one week. My friends and I were studying the TEFL teachers course in Barcelona and would meet on the weekends to explore. We were taken to the Marsella bar by an American guy, who said he was taking us to the most famous bar in Barcelona. Down Las Ramblas and onto a dodgy street towards El Raval, I was a little concerned about where he was taking us. We arrived at this Barcelona absinthe bar : Marsella. It was surrounded by prostitutes and plenty of other unsavoury characters. My friend Naomi started snapping away with her camera before getting a firm hand/slap to the face from one of the lovely night ladies, who of course, requested money for her modelling efforts.
Marsella bar certainly has that "French" feel to it, grand chandeliers hang seductively from the tatty old ceilings, as do dusty cobwebs. The misty old brass mirrors blur your vision...although I wonder if it's really the mirrors or the Absinthe responsible.

What NOT to do in this Barcelona Absinthe Bar!

My last trip to bar Marsella was interesting, we all ordered a beer and an absinthe, and said "cheers" to what ever we were celebrating, I knocked back the whole glass of absinthe in one go, thinking that was what we were all going to do. Little did I realise that my other friends were sipping away slowly on their absinthes, as you are meant to do apparently. I couldn't speak for a few minutes, struck-dumb by the shear power of this magnificent French spirit. I would like to take this opportunity to advise you NEVER to do this as I can't remember anything there after...messy, dangerous stuff. The Barcelona Absinthe Bar Marsella has cemented it's "cult status" when Woody Allen shot a scene from Vicky Cristina Barcelona here.  Nowadays, the Marsella Barcelona absinthe bar is filled with a bohemian crowd, who aren't afraid to venture down towards Barcelona's darker area, and you will of course find many tourists, eager to create their own magical memories, just be careful you don't drink too much Absinthe and do the exact opposite!
Enjoy your time at Bar Marsella, it's a strange and wonderful place......just be careful. Ben Holbrook - SuiteLifer & Absinthe Amateur [caption id="attachment_12323" align="aligncenter" width="576"]
Old memory of a great night ![/caption]

Contemporary Barcelona Architecture: Barcelona's Architecture Has Always Been Contemporary

Architecture in Barcelona should really be in a class by itself and just be called Barcelona Architecture; no need to add modern, gothic, contemporary or the likes when referring to architecture in Barcelona. Prior to winning any world cup or facilitating any discovery Spain had already mastered Architecture… in Barcelona. Just to clear the air here: contemporary and modern architecture are not always twins. Contemporary architecture is pretty much anything new on the scene and modern happens to be a time period:  the one that introduced the absence of “stuff” sometime around 1920. And by stuff I mean…
And by absence I mean…
So technically, modern architecture was once contemporary. :)  It also just so happens to be that in today’s time what is new is clean lines, thus consider contemporary architecture today an upgrade of modern arcmhitecture. #Whew! Ok now that that’s over... …So I have been here in Barcelona for almost a week. Naturally, being someone highly interested in Art and Architecture I was pretty excited to get here. Spanish architecture is notable (of course this is no discovery), especially for the undoubtedly timeless pieces that you will experience walking down any street of Barcelona. Look up for heaven’s sake!
I have to say though, the thing that peaked my interest the most, trekking down the streets and, of course even just arriving at the Barelona Aeropuerto, has got to be just the sudden outbursts of contemporary modern looking architecture every now and then. An aside:  architecture is not just an entire building; it is all the elements that make up the building. The best part about these sudden visions is that they totally fit in! I will show you:
Do you see how the architects really captured being able to move forward without leaving the rest completely behind? Barcelona architecture is an embracing one - one of progression and not rebellion. That is why architecture in Barcelona is always one step ahead… or at least never lagging behind. So then, I decided since contemporary pieces were what sparked my interest most; let me really see what Barcelona architecture has to offer in that category. Wow! Can we say 10 blogs minimum?  I decided I was going to head down to Poblenou Barcelona, which is an entire contemporary Barcelona barrio on its own, with or without a clue how to get out of a lost situation. Yikes! Made it to Poblenou and getting lost was definitely more of an ‘angels on harps’ moment than a ‘yikes’ moment for sure. Here are a few of my ‘contemporary I had no idea existed Barcelona architecture’ captures:

Yes, yes I know … where are the famous pieces you ask write my paper for me? Even though pictures do not give these works of contemporary art and architecture the magnificent credit they deserve, I decided to take a few anyway. Here goes: [caption id="attachment_18863" align="aligncenter" width="538"]
L’Auditori by architect Rafael Moneo[/caption]

Teatre Nacional de Catalunya by Ricardo Bofill a midst L'Auditori and Torre Agbar. Below is the Torre Agbar by Jean Nouvel [caption id="attachment_18867" align="aligncenter" width="369"]
Torre Agbar in Poblenou context[/caption] [caption id="attachment_18868" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Torre Agbar detail[/caption] Does the Agbar tower really seem reminiscent of a geyser? Failed in concept I would say but definitely a great navigation system for a lost new comer! When in doubt, look for La Torre Agbar! Last but not Least is the MediaTIC Edificio that was designed by the architectural team at Cloud 9 led by Enric Ruiz-Geli. This building epitomizes contemporary architecture definitely by Barcelona architecture standards. It represents progression by its highly digital design, the inclusion of sustainable architecture and by its use. I would have to say it was definitely an unexpected surprise hidden way behind the rest of the Poblenou magnificence. Form does follow function!
[caption id="attachment_18870" align="aligncenter" width="225"]
MediaTIC detail[/caption] Until next time! Besos! Melissa

Things That May Seem Strange in Barcelona Coming from the Other Side of the World

-  Strange in Barcelona Sirens -> Every now and then, as with every city in the world, I hear the police, fire trucks or ambulance racing down the street to someone’s aid. Okay.. what’s so weird? Every time I hear them, I immediately think I’m in some 1950’s mafia movie or that I somehow got transmitted back in time to World War II. The European reading this blog will be wondering what I am talking about. Well here it is… this is what we hear in the west in real life (ambulance siren)…. And this is what we hear in the west in the movies (strange Barcelona siren). -  Strange in Barcelona Elevators -> if nothing else teaches you about patience in Barcelona, it will be the elevators! Given the antiquity of them, they are quite slow and don’t support the being in a rush concept. And don’t think running up or down the staircase will be any faster because the floor to floor heights are twice that in the west and so it means double the steps. [caption id="attachment_18974" align="aligncenter" width="265"]
Typical elevator In Barcelona[/caption] At first, after you push the button (depending on where you are you may have to push the button of the floor you are on for it to come to you), you will hear some industrial noise and you will think to yourself “I hope that was not in this building”. Indeed it is. The elevators here are all old hydraulic elevators and so you hear the hydraulics at work every time someone tries to use it. Anyhow, the elevator finally gets to you and now you are thinking “why won’t these doors open?” It’s fairly simple, you have to open the doors on your own; and depending on where you are you will also have to open the inner ones as well. You better close these doors when you get out because neither you nor the next person will be going anywhere unless you do. Lastly, only if you have a death wish should you try to fit more than 4 people into an elevator. -  Strange in Barcelona Catholics and Gays get along (in the open) -> In the 1800’s they would burn you on a stake to try and convert you to Christianity; and still 94% of the population is Roman Catholic yet gay marriages have been legal here for quite some time. This would scream irony over in the west.  Especially since it’s taking so long to catch on over there and half of the population doesn’t even believe in the things the Catholic bible says. -  Strange in Barcelona Language -> There are 4 official languages – Castillian (Spanish), Catalan, Basque and Galician) -> Oh! No wonder every time I think “I’ve got this!” it turns out I really haven’t. -  There are 3 unofficial languages – Asturian, Arogonese and Aranese .. and tons of dialects -> see above ^. I seriously don’t have this. -  Strange in Barcelona Is it done yet? -> They have the only building in the world that is famous yet incomplete; and still being built 125 years later. Talk about diligence. A must see! La Sagrada Familia. [caption id="attachment_18975" align="aligncenter" width="225"]
La Sagrada Familia - At least they now have cranes[/caption] -  Strange in Barcelona Don’t take it to the streets! -> Weed.. aka marijuana.. aka mary jane is legal.. AT HOME… I guess that’s why everyone is so welcoming when I say I’m Jamaican (And for the record I do not smoke); or why the lady renting her home said no drugs allowed except weed. *raised eyebrow* -  Strange in Barcelona Hey they paid for him -> Messi is Argentinian. In the world of football this is not strange at all but I just thought I would throw this on in for Kicks! - Strange in Barcelona Catalonians don’t really drink sangria -> this would explain why I can’t find any good tasting ones here. They just make watered down wine for the tourists. You’re better off with a caiparina, mojito, gin y tonic or cacique y cola! - Strange in Barcelona Look out below! - People hang their clothes off the balcony to dry -> Great way to meet people… when you’re underwear falls 10 stories down onto someone else's terrace. [caption id="attachment_18976" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Balcony drying station[/caption] -  Strange in Barcelona Lunch is at 2pm and Dinner is at 10pm -> this pretty much disproves all the western theory about eating late and gaining weight. - Strange in Barcelona The ring tone is kind of similar to a busy signal - > I guess I just thought that’s how it sounds from the west to the east. Turns out it sounds that way here too. -  Strange in Barcelona How come I haven’t seen anyone dance the Flamenco?? -> yup. Not a Catalonian dance! -  Strange in Barcelona Thinking ahead instead of lagging behind -> Unlike in the west, if you are driving and the light is about to turn red you better not speed up to try and catch the light because the pedestrians have already anticipated their green and have started walking. Likewise if you are a pedestrian and the light indicates that it will soon be time for the cars to start driving, you better just stop and wait for the next light because feet are already off the brakes. Those are all the noticeably strange things in Barcelona that I’ve seen since I’ve been here in the last three weeks without reading an “all about Barcelona historical facts.” Besos! Melissa

Skating in Barcelona is extremely popular. Many skaters from all over the world flock into the city to practice their skills. Read on to find out where you can find the best Barcelona skate spots and skate shops! So you want to explore the city’s architecture in a different way? You could use some exercise to lose that winter chubbiness? Unlike yours truly, you have an above average sense of balance? Then why not discover the city on a skateboard? With the balmy climate, the laidback culture and the distinctive designs of public places, Barcelona has come to be known as skateboarding paradise. In a previous blog post on skate spots in Barcelona, we already talked about the two most famous ones, namely Plaça de la Universitat and the MACBA Museum. Covering all of the Barcelona skate spots  would be a rather hopeless task, the best thing to do is take your board and go exploring, really. However, to get you started we have collected some other places that are much appreciated by skaters: (be sure to also check out our map below)

Barcelona Skate Spots: Parallel

Some hundred meters from the metro station (green line, L3) there’s a spot with a lot of ledges, benches, a slope and a stage in the middle. Very popular!

Barcelona Skate Spots: Fòrum

After you get off the metro (yellow line, L4), go towards the ocean. You will find benches, ledges, wavelike structures, large stairs and a skate park closeby. A lot of exploring possiblities!

Barcelona Skate Spots: Sants station (Estació de Sants)

Both sides of the station (green line, L3 and blue line, L5) offer great skating areas. On one side you will find several stone benches, a long rail and some stairs. The other side features a manual pad and a set of stairs. A popular hangout place for many skateboarders.

Barcelona Skate Spots: Fondo

A bit further a way, but easily accessible with the orange line (L9). Basically a skate park, but there are also nice benches on the side of the street.

Barcelona Skate Spots: Arc de Triomf

Accessible with the red line (L1) Here you'll find a lot of stairs, slopes and rails. Great place to practice!

Barcelona Skate Spots: Port Olimpic

Large smooth boardwalks, some stairs, some rails and a refreshing sea breeze…
What more do you need?   Being the skateboarder's paradise, Barcelona also has some nice skate shops. So if you wish to update or expand your skating gear, we suggest you pay a visit to Inercia Shop, Free Barcelona and/or Ikara Skate Shop. They are the most well-known skate shops in Barcelona. This should definitely get you on your way. So if you now feel the unstoppable urge to practice your skateboarding skills – or impress the girls / guys – you know where to go! But as said before, Barcelona certainly houses a lot more skateboarding spots, so don’t hesitate to set out on an exploration of the city! If you're looking for more great info on skating in Barcelona you must check out this site which is the Bible of Skate Spots in Barcelona! The map below is from their site but you can also get more detailed info from them so check it out! Click Here to View a Larger Map Let us know in the comments if you have any other skating recommendations, we’d love to hear them!   - by Machteld De Groef / Photos by Charlotte Jiaqian Chen

The 24 Hour Shopping store in Barcelona: A Lost Concept

Do I really need a 24 hour shopping store in Barcelona to survive here? ‘You’re in Barcelona! Why are you thinking about Walmart?  Never in my wildest dreams...’ This is my latest self-conversation. You would think I was brought up in a place not at all similar to this, but all of a sudden the concept of stores closing by 9 pm and not opening on a Sunday seem so foreign to me. But it does make perfect sense as it did in Jamaica (10 years ago): how can you go to the beach or enjoy a Sunday stroll with the family if you are at the supermarket… or any other shopping for that matter? And of course you will learn the concept of doing without (improvising) or, meeting your neighbours if you run out of that necessary ingredient. But for those of you who don’t like any of those ideas, especially after you just spent the last 48 hours partying in Barcelona and have no more cash to go to a great restaurant with a terrace, I have taken the liberty of putting it out there. Are you ready? There ARE 24 hour shopping stores in Barcelona! You may have to walk a few blocks but none the less, they do exist! I have to tell you. You should be very grateful for these stores because there are major hurdles to get over here in order to open one of these late night/ 24 Hour shopping stores in Barcelona. The laws of Barcelona do not promote this concept at all, thus there are heavy fees involved. First up on the 24 hour shopping list is Open25. They are the only ones that actually open for the entire 24 hours on Monday and Sunday 365 days a year. Otherwise they open Thursday to Sunday 24 hours and Monday to Wednesday 8:00am to 2:00am. Open25 sells everything you could need to get by until the rest of Barcelona re-opens. Click here for their locations - Open25. [caption id="attachment_18924" align="aligncenter" width="267"]
Open25[/caption] Next  on the list are OpenCor and VIPS. They open until 2:00am and have way more than what will get you by. Restaurants, electronics… stuff. What?!? But they aren't open after 2:00am. Seriously, if you are hungry after 2:00am go to bed. :) Ok so really now this will get your mind off Walmart because Walmart does not have 24 hour pharmacies where I am from. This should be your only NEED after 2:00am. So because I care so much :), here are a few 24 Hour pharmacies in Barcelona, addresses and all:

• Farmacia Torres

Calle Aribau, 62 08011 Barcelona Tel: 934-539-220

• Farmacia Cervera

Muntaner, 254 (Between Travessera and Diagonal) 08021 Barcelona Tel: 932-000-996

• Farmacia Bonanova

Plaza Bonanova, 6 08022 Barcelona Tel: 934-178-032 Even though you should be enjoying the Barcelona experience and adhering to their culture of either being asleep or partying after 1:00am, I will throw in a 24 hour copy shop. But as a reader of this blog I hope you will only use it if you need to photocopy travel documents for travel early in the morning. Who needs Kinkos when you have Workcenter! [caption id="attachment_18925" align="aligncenter" width="300"]
Workcenter 24 Hour Copying + DHL[/caption] In the end all you really need to know when you think you need a to do 24 hour shopping in Barcelona is that there are two greater options in Barcelona for that time of night ... sleeping and partying! And that's the way it's done in Barcelona. Relax a little and enjoy the ride! Besos Melissa

Barcelona to Madrid - Two of Spain's/World's Greatest Cities!

Barcelona to Madrid is a journey I seem to be making more and more frequently recently. I am becoming quite the expert on travel routes between the two cities. Barcelona to Madrid may strike you as a simple journey, which it is, but if you aren't careful, you could end up paying more than you may imagine. Barcelona to Madrid....Vamos!!
At the time of writing, I have been living in Barcelona for the best part of two years, I've loved every moment of it, the ups, the downs and the sideways bits in-between. However, as with everything in life, it has been nothing like I imagined it to be. When I moved to Barcelona, I had visions of  jetting off every weekend, to some other beautiful part of Spain...or perhaps Italy or France. Not to say I haven't explored because I have, but life does have a way of getting in the way of things. Once I started working and paying for things like rent and food, it became difficult to find time to enjoy Barcelona, let alone fly to Madrid or Paris! Recently though, I met a girl...(queue dramatic operatic film music) who lives in Madrid. She's one of a kind and I'm happy as Larry, to say the very least. The last few weekends, I've been flying from Barcelona to Madrid to see her, being careful to spend as little as possible on the journey,  and as much time as possible with her, food, wine and all the other good stuff that goes hand in hand.

Barcelona to Madrid - What are the options?

What I have come to realise, is that when travelling from Barcelona to Madrid, the cheapest option is not always the best option. However, I appreciate that some of you SuiteLifers may disagree so I will give you the low-down on what's hot-to-trot.

The AVE Train (RENFE) - High Speed

Why use the AVE train to get from Barcelona to Madrid? A comfortable and fast way to travel between Barcelona - Madrid, the RENFE AVE Train is a a high speed train travelling from Barcelona Sants/La Sagrera Train stations to Madrid central train station. How long does the train take from Barcelona to Madrid? The journey time is more or less 3 hours. When you consider that you get on the train in Barcelona and don't have to travel to the airport, the journey time is more or less the same as if you were to fly. Especially if you were  to get to the airport an hour or two in advance. When do the trains leave from Barcelona to Madrid? I think the real beauty of getting the AVE RENFE high speed train, is the frequency of which they run. There is one if not two trains from Barcelona to Madrid leaving every hour from 6am to 9pm. For a good look at the timetable just click -----> Here :) How Much is the train from Barcelona to Madrid? It's not cheap and will cost you €120 return and as tourist. However, it must be said that as flights from Barcelona to Madrid fluctuate, the AVE Train does not. I always use this as a reference, if a flight is considerably more than this amount, you know the train price will remain the same.   

The Estrella Night Train (RENFE) - Not So High Speed

Why use the Estrella Night train to get from Barcelona to Madrid? Bottom line, the Estrella Night Train run by RENFE offers the cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Madrid. If you have time but no money, the Estrella Night Train from Barcelona to Madrid is your best bet. How long does the Estrella Night Train take to get from Barcelona to Madrid? The journey time is more or less 9 hours. If you have a sleeping bag and a pillow, and you can get comfortable, I suggest you get some shut eye and sleep well knowing you are saving a bunch of money not only by using the cheapest travel route, but also saving yourself from shelling out for a nights accommodation. When does the Estrella Night Train leave from Barcelona to Madrid? As there is only one night in a day, there is only one night train, so be careful you don't turn up late and miss it. Typically the Estrella Night Train leaves Barcelona at around 10pm. For a good look at the timetable just click -----> Here :) How Much is the Estrella Night Train from Barcelona to Madrid? It's cheap, in fact, it's dirt cheap. €44. Need I say any more about this? I don't think so.

Fights from Barcelona to Madrid (My personal recommendation)

Why fly from Barcelona to Madrid? Often, but not always, you can get some great deals on Barcelona to Madrid flights. If like me, you don't have much time, but a great desire to be in Madrid, then flying offers quick and flexible way to travel. How long is the flight from Barcelona to Madrid? The flight itself is more or less ONE HOUR. However, bare in mind that Barcelona/El Prat Airport is outside of Barcelona city and typically you will need to set aside an hour, just to get from the city to  the airport. To get from Barcelona city to the airport, I usually use the train, which goes from Clot, Paseo de Gracia and Barcelona Sants. It's cheap and only takes about 30-40 minutes. But be careful as there are only one or two trains every hour, meaning you often have to wait for 30 minutes for it to arrive. NB - The train from Barcelona to El Prat Airport takes you to Terminal 2, flights from Barcelona to Madrid leave from Terminal 1 which means you have to jump on the little shuttle bus (free of charge), this adds an extra 15 minutes to your journey which I didn't realise and nearly missed my flight. BE CAREFUL! If time is not your friend, I suggest jumping on the Aerobus in Placa Cataluyna (Barcelona center) which costs about €5-6 and stops at both terminal 1 and 2. Stress free and perhaps a little easier. Who offers the best Flights from Barcelona to Madrid?
There are certainly many companies offering "cheap flights from Barcelona to Madrid" but it must be said that the prices fluctuate rapidly and seemingly without reason. So far, I have found Vueling to offer the best prices, although recently while I was booking a ticket, the price dropped from €99 to €35. Of course I was happy about this, but it just seems that sometimes it's worth waiting and watching for the prices to change.

Vueling - Great Service, Punctual and THE BEST PRICES!

How Much are flights from Barcelona to Madrid? It's not bad, but it's not great. Baring in mind you can get the AVE Train for €120, I usually use that as a base. So far, I have paid about €130 return from Barcelona to Madrid, it seems that flights from Madrid to Barcelona are cheaper than the other way round.  It seems that during peak periods (which is generally on weekends or holidays when I want to fly), the flights are about €99 each way....no thanks!! Spanair Spanair always sound very attractive, but they are one of those companies that don't include things like taxes in their price, so it may start off at €50 return, it normally ends up being considerably more than that, and in my experience, Spanair do not offer the best value on flights between Barcelona and Madrid. Rumbo http://www.rumbo.es/ are great in the way that they search for routes of various companies. For example, you could fly from Barcelona to Madrid with Vueling, but then return with SpanAir. They mix and match cheap flights so you don't have to scour the different sites for the best deal. So there you have it, Barcelona to Madrid. I hope you enjoy your travels as I have done. Madrid and Barcelona are very different, but both incredible places and I'm happy to have experienced them as I have.

THE BUS FROM BARCELONA TO MADRID?

Well, I haven't taken the bus from Barcelona to Madrid. I must say, it would be cheaper, but not necessarily cheaper than the night train. Considering it takes more time I would not even bother with the bus, unless of course, you are on a massive budget and want to take your own sweet time! Ben Holbrook - SuiteLifer and BCN to MADRID Frequent Flyer!

Barcelona Sculptures :  Best (non-Gaudi) Sculptures

For many, Barcelona is inextricably linked with the work of Antoni Gaudí. People from all over the world visit the city to wonder at his highly original organic buildings and sculptures. Barcelona wouldn’t be the same without these iconic works. Looking beyond Gaudí, Barcelona has a selection of other permanent more modern sculptural works that have been significant in defining new periods and adorning public spaces in the city. Sometimes it’s easy to pass by the open air gallery that is Barcelona so keep your eyes peeled the next time you wander its streets and ´plazas’. Here are some worth checking out. Barcelona Sculptures: The Raval Cat – Designed by Fernando Botero this is one of Barcelona’s most popular sculptures. The big, black bulbous cat sits staring out on the Rambla de Raval. It has moved around the city and has finally come to rest here. As it watches over the antics of the Raval, kids love to scramble up its legs and others use it as a meeting point. It has in part ended up here to help promote the regeneration of the Raval district.

Barcelona Sculptures : Cap de Barcelona – The famous Pop Artist, Roy Lichtenstein, was commissioned to create a sculpture for the 1992 Olympics. Originally to be placed in the mountains, it was decided that it would be more suited to the old port. Standing 20 metres high, it’s instantly recognisable as a Lichtenstein with abstract features and a use of bold colour to represent a woman’s head. He used the old technique of “Trencadis”, popular with Modernists in Catalonia where ceramic tiles are smashed and stuck back together to create a work of art. Barcelona Sculptures: Frank Gehry’s Fish – The giant ‘peix’ has become just as emblematic of Barcelona as any of Gaudí’s structures. The first piece to be designed by Gehry & Associates using computer aided design was commissioned for the Olympics. Highly conceptual, this huge copper fish glints in the setting sun and reflects a modern Barcelona that was transformed by the Olympics Games. It is also very much a part of its environment being formed at the same time as the expanded seafront and the new beaches of Bogatel, Nova Icària, and Mar Bella.

Barcelona Sculptures: Woman with Bird – One of Barcelona´s most famous artists, Miró, bequeathed this sculpture to Barcelona in 1983. The The Dona I Ocell (Woman with Bird) can be found in Parc Joan Miró near Plaza Espanya and uses the same “Trencadis” technique of shattered and reconstituted tiles so typical of Gaudí’s work. Miró’s last public work is reminiscent of many of his expressionist paintings. Barcelona Sculptures: Cloud & Chair – You might miss this rambling sculpture called Nuvol i Cadira or Cloud & Chair on the Modernist building of the Antoni Tapies Foundation on calle Aragon. The tangled tubular structure takes up the space between the two buildings and either looks like a wild abstract painting or barbed wire protection depending on your point of view. You need to look closely to see the chair. The foundation was established by Catalunya´s most famous artist, Antoni Tapies, to promote contemporary art.
If you know of any other cool sculptures in Barcelona let us know! Ranald