Spain: Barcelona

Last week I was seduced into going to Barcelona. After promises of tons of fun, bike rides and delicious food I made the crucial decision to visit the "the enemy city". And as any other Spanish city, it had not disappointed me. It had all I could ask for - mountains (hills), the sea with beautiful port, tons of art in the area (Joan Miro, countless Gaudi's work, 1 hour away Dali residence and museum), wonderful weather, smiling and handsome Spaniards.

Knowing me, I did not even come close to the camp nou or whatever they call that nasty place. There are many other places to see! If you are ever in Barcelona (or bcn) go to the top of Montjuic (Mont=Mountain, Juic=Jew). Super romantic views of the city plus interesting places to see are guaranteed. I was taken to the Joan Miro Foundation museum to bite on some Catalan art. I have to mention that a month away from Spain made my castellano quite rusty, so when the guide of the museum was talking only in Catalan I could not see the difference. Of course it is not true, but close enough. Catalan is a beautiful mix of Spanish, French, English and I even heard few German words in there. Natives told me that it is a much softer language, so even to have an argument in Catalan has a sweet undertone. That is true :)

Other what I liked in Barcelona was their delicious and fresh food. I love food. And this one made me do: "mmhhh" very often! Fresh Mediterranean grilled fish with potatoes, salad with cheese, nuts, honey and vinegar (!), dry fig covered in chocolate and the tomato bread - Pa amb tomàquet, or just [tumaket]- something you can try at home: http://spanishfood.about.com/od/tapas/r/pancontomate.htm. Mmmhhh . . .

Last by for sure not least -> La Sagrada Familia. It got into my heart in a different way than on my first trip to Barcelona 4 years ago. It is so big that for me it just "magically" appeared above the buildings or in between avenues (avenidas). The fact that it is still under construction and is more a living being than an undone church, adds to the active and energetic image of Barcelona.