Spain, Camino Del Norte: Pit Stop Barcelona, Spain

Can I tell you how much I love this city? It’s vibrant, busy, yet artsy and laid back at the same time. There is a vibe here I can’t put into words.
Coming thru the airport is easy and pleasant no time wasted … breeze thru customs grab your things and go just make sure you have your passport ready.  Point is they are up to date the latest advancements.

The airport’s buses are easy and cost efficient (my new words for cheap and reasonable). TIP: Catch the T1 or T2 airport bus direct to Plaza Espanya or Plaza Cataluna and you are in the heart of the city in minutes or catch the #46 local bus ( more stops but cheaper) right outside the terminal. You can use cash to pay the driver or use the kiosk …or if you prefer to catch the metro downstairs in The terminal is equally easy. As for language, a little Spanish will get you a long way but most major places some speak a few words of English but be polite at least learn a few buzz words like please, thank you and where is.
I stayed in the Catalonia Plaza hotel located in Plaza Espanya, yeah I know what you are thinking but after 2 days of flying I deserve it but no it’s not cheap but then again no hotel in Barcelona is cheap unless you stay in a hostel. I booked mainly for convenience and a little one time luxury with breakfast included, which I missed this morning due to a little jet-lag. But guess what? I got an upgraded room which came with a nice view of the Barcelona Arena. Staff is very pleasant eager to please, professional and friendly. … you know what they say. it’s about location!

Barcelona as a massive city is both architecturally and artistically stunning. It is a fast-paced city with a flair for the dramatic .. everything here moves rapidly with a vibrant vivid and colorful heartbeat. Eat to your heart’s content because this city is also known for food .. gastronomic, gourmet and street food ….viva tapas! Stay on your toes but relax into to the vibe and you can’t go wrong here. TIP: I took a hop on hop off tour of the city with Barcelona City Tour at 30 euros for one day ticket, very reasonable with small a booking.Com discount..you can pay on the bus. I recommend this as it is an easy way to see this sprawling city but watch for pickpockets who gather near the more popular tourist sites. There are many ways to get around via rental bike, rental rickshaw, scooter, funicular, bus or walking. Beautiful weather today and a beautiful start to my Spanish adventure. See below for more photos of beautiful Barcelona.