Before You Go!

Here lately my page views have spiked drastically, at least that's what the notifications tell me. I'm no fool, I know it's the season of preparing and scouring the internet to make sure you've prepared just right for your new adventure abroad. Because I am aware, and I've been in your shoes AND I would be a cruel person to just keep moving with no regard to your fragile life changing move here's a quick "to do" list of the little and the big things to help you get on your way.

Warning: This is the only photo, enjoy!
 

 

The Little Things:

Tissue Packets: You use the restroom, you need tissue, but you will not find it if you are using a public restroom in Spain (and most of Europe). Nope. This was always on my shopping list and I was always needing them. Not to mention that time we ran out of toilet paper in the apartment, we were prepared. Seriously, these little packets need to be in your possession as soon as possible and never let them go.
Cell Phone: Just suspend the service if you have a Smart Phone and use Wifi to connect to people through Whassapp. Airplane mode is you friend now. Everyone has it, and now you can make phone calls. It's a free, all in one!
Learning the Language: If you don't know, you will learn. Before you go learn some quick phrases- the basics for interaction, buying items, and in general not coming off as a jerk to the locals. There are so many sources for this, start with the web obviously.
Sunscreen: No really, I'm from Texas and I know heat, but if you go back to the beginning of my blog journey you'll notice a trend: High Temperatures and Walking. These two things require you to protect your body from sun damage. Just do it.
Walking Shoes: Not Espadrilles. Not new Chucks. Not cheap sandals. Not flip-flops. Try some cute New Balances or Timberland boots, both are great for walking, cute and popular no matter where you are in the world. All the shoes I put on the no-gos list I've already tried for you and until you've had to leave a good night out because both of your cheap sandals break apart from all their  hardwork you know nothing.

The Big Things:

A Shoulder bag (Ladies or if you prefer gents): As a woman I'm carrying around more than my average male friend. All of which comes in handy until someone tries to rob me or I'm walking through a very crowded street holding my bag like a baby because, not a soul has time for thieves. Here's looking at you Barcelona. Get a shoulder bag that's light, zips for every compartment option, cleans easy, and can be worn across the body with the bag in the front. I tell you this because I know from the experience. The experience of others of course. I don't know from personal experience because my shoulder bag followed the rules.
A Solid Back Pack: My backpack was waxed leather, definitely fashion forward, and well worth the money. I was a modern day Mary Poppins. You will definitely need this as your carry-on for travels. But sometimes just to put your groceries in before you get on the bus or train.  Try to avoid luggage as much as possible, especially on weekend trips. Get a deep one with many pockets and don't be afraid to return it after your trail run if it doesn't work out. Because you are going to try it on for real before you move abroad, right?
Space Saver Bags: I quote: " Girl, I need to see how you pack, how were you able to bring so many clothes?!" Space saver bags. That's how. Seriously, I wasn't working with overly large suitcases or a too spacious carry-on bag ( I chose atheistic over necessity), but due to Space Saver bags I made it happen. Fully stocked closet right here guys, and outside of giving away my Classic Doc Martens to a homeless man before my departure (and trashing other shoes that the cobble stone streets had been unkind to) I was able to bring back my spoils from shopping along with what I arrived owning. Space Saver bags and the roll technique are your friend. Sometimes your only friend.
Suitcases: All I can say is choose wisely, and choose for you. Don't let someone else pick out your big bags AND make sure you can carry them all at once. My bags are SWISS, so they're built tough, made for travel, and easy to carry. My smaller bag while pretty big can easily be worn as a backpack due to the handles design. My best suggestion is to get all your bags together in a corner of your place or beside a wall. Imagine you are traveling on a train and some little street urchins are eyeing your property. Are you and your bags arrange in a manner that's going to make it real difficult for them to hassle away some of your belongings. If not, why? Figure it out- even if that means buying new bags. This is a real life situation, just ask anyone who has ever traveled abroad about their train, underground, tube, or subway story and I guarantee you it will involve a Tetris game of their property for safe keeping.

The When I Get There Things:

Living Situation: With the internet and connecting with people all over the world it's definitely possible to find a place before you get to your city, but BECAREFUL. I was lucky because not only the landlords and there daughter provided references, but the current resident was all over Facebook with tips and pictures. I took a chance and it paid off. My greatest suggestion to you is network with locals before you get there, they'll be the helpful ones for certain.
Get The I.D.:  Do not waste time getting your I.D. or the information needed. Follow the directions, use your resources and move forward. To open up a bank account, which you will need, you have to have you I.D. get it and keep it safe.
Find some travel buddies: No seriously, find folks you can travel with and then go. Plan sometimes and others times don't plan, just hope on a train to a town you've heard of and have a good time.

The BIGGEST THING:

Enjoy the journey, understand that you can never fully prepare for what you are about to experience and that the person you believe yourself to be is about to change for the better. Please don't let the stress or nerves get in the way of the experience and relationships you will encounter along the way.

Hope this was helpful, until next time . . .Adios, Hasta Pronto, Be Blessed!

Life in Spain: Should I Stay or Should Go?

Should I stay or Should I go? Why do I want to go? Where am I headed? Can I afford to do this? What will my family think? What burden will this place on my family? How will this effect my current relationships with friends and my significant other? How will this help my career? How long am I staying or am I moving permanently?

 

I cannot answer these questions for you, all I can do is explain my situation and my opinion on the matter. First you must know that each and every situation is different. That in my journey and life abroad I met people from all walks of life.

Yes some were wandering and lost, but some were not. Many were looking over their shoulder trying to figure out how this would effect their typical "life track" progression. Some people were right out of college and others were recently divorced or widowed. Each and every person has their own story, just as you will have yours . . .

The Life Track

What about the money, career, cars, family and babies where do they fit into this great adventure. First, please understand that I'm a firm believer you can travel at any age with your family or without. But I'm also well aware that its plenty easier to accomplish when you're young, wild and free. I'm sure it's stressful having to match the flight and train times to your two year olds sleep and feeding schedule. Not too mention even if you like the Hostel life in your thirties, I'm doubting it'll be the joys and whimsicalness you oh so love at 65.

So do this here travel thing, moving across the big pond adventure now because the phrase "it only gets harder from here" applies to so many things in life.
Honestly, I've always planned to travel and I've always planned to have a great big family. I believe that the travel and the years to age me into possessing a bit of wisdom will only help me when I'm older and teaching my own baby bears.

Think of the things that inspire and keep you in awe of your parents, for me it's seeing the risk they took and the moments when they just said, "I'm stepping out on faith". Yes, I recognize those moments as their adult child, but part me of knows that's because as their child they were quick to use themselves as life examples when the going got tough for me ( which was a lot easier than it ever got for the two of them by the way).

 I know that the lessons I've learned traveling and living abroad are lessons that I will use to guide and teach my children. Just as I didn't, I'm sure you don't want to be the "what if" parent. So make the decision- either it's for you now or it's for you down the road or it's for you never.

In the case of the job, I was lucky and Teaching English is my profession, but I realize not everyone is like me. However, learning a new language, especially one of the top languages in the world is a helpful step to anyone. My resume for Jo-Ann's craft store ask what other languages I know, because it's a use full skill any business can benefit from.

Finally, my wallet will always be the better for living abroad. I made $925.00 a month and balanced paying four bills, abroad and stateside, along with daily expenses and traveling. You learn how to make money work and that's a life skill you just cannot do without in this day and age of credit card and student loan debt.

Family

First realize as much as it seems so, it’s not personal. Honestly, through their own confusion and struggle your family may say some pretty hurtful words and their actions may not resemble the love they have always shown you in the past. But know their love is still there, even stronger if that’s possible.

All the questions, fears and concerns that you have are equal to the questions your family is wondering or asking aloud AND the confusion is double for them because they are not privy to your most inner thoughts and desires.  Also, if they are about to help you out financially in anyway that’s a weight on their shoulders that they deserve to become aware of as soon as possible.

The fear, anxiety and questions that your family keep drilling you with cannot be the main factor in whether you stay or go. It can be a factor, especially if they will be forced to help you financially, but placing it at number one will certainly keep your feet firmly planted at home.

And know that if you go, sometimes you will have the greatest day only to have a skype call with a family member who will knock your joy away with woes of just how much they miss you. In those moments remember that in their mind they see one little red pin on a map showing your country surrounded by no other red pins. All by your lonesome self, walking down unsafe streets alone, drinking in shady establishments alone and having no one to hug you on tough days. Not a single other soul there for you because everyone who cares about you is back in the States.

Just remember their side when it becomes  maddening to keep explaining the same answers or hearing the same statements of resentment. Don’t hold it against, but do move forward with the decision that is best for you.

Money, Money, Money, Money, Mah-ney!

Honey, you betta save like it’s your only job. No shopping. No eating out. No movie theatre nights. No money spent. You must save every last penny. Dead serious I at the same sandwich for two months straight for dinner cause my bank account needed to be bursting.

If you go through a program, no matter which country you’re moving to, it’s gonna cost some money. The plan ticket will cost money. The idea to buy early is great unless you receive your placement a month before you must report like many now residing in Spain did this past year. Then you're buying last minute and all the good seats are gone.

But the heavy hitter comes during your travels once you’ve actually moved abroad. The point for moving to Europe for the majority of folks is to travel across the pond like you just can’t do in North America. And that cost money. Planes, Trains, Buses, and a place to sleep. Also, you must eat. All of that cost money and since I don’t do Hostels it cost just a little more for this girl. There are deals, coupons and the notion that Ryanair is actually becoming understanding towards their consumers, but that still cost money. Plus you’re probably traveling to some pretty touristy locations and with tourist locations come tourist prices.

Just take my trip to Ireland, I almost laid-out on the muddy streets crowded with all sorts crying when I realized that I had gone through 400 euoros in four days with two days left on that leg of the journey, two other destinations to go and an entire month before my next paycheck. Instead I just moved towards the nearest street corner and went to work- just kidding! But it was a serious thought considering my next destination was Paris and all it’s shopping.

Budgeting and having the funds are necessary. You will still have bills, here and there along with unexpected fees. The last thing you want to do is be caught in need of money that isn’t available to you.

The Verdict

Go or stay, take a look at all points of view. Understand that just because living abroad doesn't work out it doesn't mean you can't play abroad as often as possible. Know that change will always cause growth. Meditate, pray and ask questions. But ultimately make the decision for you, and your life progress- not a single other person.

Hope this helped, I know it's long, but there's so much information. Hopefully the future Life in Spain post don't scroll down as far. Feel free to e-mail me or ask in the comments if I didn't touch on something directly. But remember there's definitely more to come with the last Life in Spain post taking place the first week of June. Thanks for walking with me on my journey, hope it helped you on yours in some way.

 

Until Next Time, Adios, Hasta Pronto, and Be Blessed . . .

Expat Blogger Challenge: Day 21

Day 21:

Taste Like Home



I don't even play this game. This is the downward spiral of thinking how many unsanitary items you touch in one day. It will only harm the mind and spirit.

What I will tell you is the top five places I'm going to become a constant regular at when I return home, in no particular order:

My Grandmother's kitchen.

 To eat well and to learn. In a culture where eating out means small portion tapas typically or cooking at home I've been enjoying learning how much I like the process of creating a meal. Who better to learn from than my Nini!

A quick whip-up from my Nini!

 

Five Guys Burger.

 A real burger. A malt with a burger.

Chica- fi-la.

It's been so long I'm not even sure if I spelled it correctly and I'm so scared to Google the information then find myself drooling at a picture of those crispy nuggets.

 

 

My Dad's Meatloaf.

 I'll be learning this recipe also and then devouring it often. He makes it every birthday dinner and I eat the majority every birthday dinner. The poor guy always finds something wrong with the dish that he'll have to change next time, and if he keeps thinking this we're going to have to have his head examined.

 

My other grandmothers peach cobbler.

My family of fools. This lady is old school and didn't write down her recipes. Her recipe for her Peach Cobbler that caused a many of odd knowledge about my cousins and odd fights too- corner pieces are worth teeth marks in my shoulder for weeks and I'll stand by that until I die.

 Sadly, this sweet Texas-flower has suffered some old age memory lose and not a soul knows the recipe, but this summer while crashing at my parents again I plan to visit her often for story time. Hopefully one of those stories will even include the baking process of her peach cobbler that has caused an adult male to carry around a bowl full of the gooey dish for hours until his stomach had made room for more goodness.

 

Dear reader what are the foods that get your mouth watering and your soul in a mood for a feast. I love hearing about the comfort foods of others- please share.

 Remember if you want to participate in the blogger challenge feel free to answer in the comments or leave a link for your blog.

Until Next time, Adios, Hasta Pronto, Be Blessed . . .

 

Expat Blogger Challenge: Day 16

Let's Just Pretend I didn't Miss 7 Days.

Right just as it says in the title, I'm going to pretend I didn't miss seven days straight ( even though I did run around with my camera like a turkey taking photos for last Monday's topic.)  Moving forward . . . . . .

Day 16:   “It is a bitter-sweet thing, knowing two cultures. Once you leave your birthplace nothing is ever the same.” ― Sarah Turnbull

Again, I related to this quote as a mover. I know that some folks spend there entire lives in the same city. I'm close friends with a young lady in Texas who has only ever lived in the same metropolis, traveling often to other states, but maintaining the same area code for home her entire 36 years of life. Or, I've even met people living abroad with whom this particular living situation never occurred before and have only lived at home and away at university. Then there's me, I've moved more times that I've told people the phrase, "I moved a lot growing up". My dad is a coach and  my mom is an administrator they both have this ability to rebuild suffering schools and people caught on to that early.
This moving often resulted in me living in every region of Texas, but the Corpus Christie area. If you consider that the country of Spain fits inside the state of Texas you can then maybe understand better the notion that every region of Texas has it's own culture, accents, food, names, phrases and traditions.
 Don't believe ask someone from the Brazos area to throw a crawdad boil for someone from West Texas and play only Zydeco music the majority of the time. Your beloved West Texas pal will spend the majority of the time perplexed over the cooking process and ziesty music and why exactly this Brazos person sound so similar to someone from Louisiana. The comparisons are never ending. Growing up adjusting, living and socializing all over this great landscape of Texas has taught me more things than the times I've moved.
When people ask where my home is, I always respond that my home is where my loved ones reside. Whether that be beside me, two towns over or across the pond the people who hold my heart iare exactly where you can find my home. Because of this idea my home is always growing, changing, and adding new places to call home. So no I do not consider leaving my birthplace bitter sweet, only sweet. Sweet like a mothers milk, wrapped in comfort and nutrition to the soul.

Dear travels how do you relate to this quote, does it speak to you in a way that I could never understand. Just provide a link to your blog and answer in the comments section, I am truly interested.

Until next time, Hasta Pronto, Adios, Be Blessed . . .

 

Blogger Challenger Plays Catch-Up

I honestly planned on writing all of the blogs I missed and then due to events outside of my control I was unable to work on my laptop this week and became even further behind. I just don't have it in  me to write all the blogs I've missed, but I still want to participate in some form, so I've developed a challenge of my own: Complete each of the post I've missed in twenty words. No more, no less. Twenty on the dot. Hopefully this keeps it interesting while also keeping it simple.

If you too are participating remember to post a link to your blog in the comments, let me know your thoughts on the topic if you aren't participating on your blog- the more the merrier.

Day 1: The View from Where I Write

Café view.

 

I write everything at my desk or the teachers lounge at work or a nook at my favorite Jaen café.

Café seating.

 

Day2: "Not All Those Who Wander are Lost"- J.R.R. Tolkien

 I was, and many others are in the same boat. Thanks for the help travel, change always heals the spirit.

 

Day 3: An Object that Makes Me Feel at Home

Technology. Cell and Computer.  I can write, record, snap a picture or hold a video conversation with loved ones anytime.

Day 4: My 5th Post, A Look Back

Was education based and personal. I was definitely trying to figure out what type of blog I wanted to write.

Day 5: I Was at The Airport, and . . .

Met a fresh out of college National Geographic Travel Writer, who wants to return to India for a political career.

Day 6: I would/ would not move to another country after this . . .

Unless I was moving for my passion. I now know that my passion must always be at play in life.

Day 7: Since moving abroad, my pantry looks different because . . .

I have no frozen food. Food in containers in the fridge yes, but no frozen California Pizzas or dinner meals.

Day 8: I will never get use to . . .

How much I miss loved ones. Here, there, everywhere the amount I miss those folks could fill a black hole.

 

Please don't hold against me the lack of a full length blog and take into account that full length Barcelona blog that more than makes up for any loss. Remember I would love to read about your own adventures and opinions on the topics.

Until Next time, Adios, Hasta Pronto, Be Blessed . . .

Happy, Happy New Year!

Y'all it's that time of year again, we're all geared up and revving towards all the great possibilities that come with the beginning of a new year. New travels, new jobs, new loves, and possibly new babies, the newness is endless. I hope you are basking in all that is to come, but don't forget to grow from the old and cherish what once was because without it you would not be looking at all the new possibilities.

In tradition of the Off I Go blog post featuring some of the most popular travel quotes circling the web at this time I'm going to do the same for all the New Year goodness . . .

 

 

 

 

Did any of you adventurous readers make a few new years resolutions or is that now for the birds, let me know why or why not in the comments. I personally have a few goals, but moving to Spain came with it's own set of goals ( learn Spanish, Workout) and they are taking up plenty of my effort.

I wish each and everyone of you folks a blessed year ahead filled with laughter, love and more happiness than you ever expected.

Until next time, Adios, Hasta Pronto, and Be Blessed . . .

 

The Good, The Bad and The Over Traveled

As you may have noticed for the Barcelona post I did plenty of research and provided way too much detail for you blog readers.

 I did do my research before traveling to Ireland for Christmas and Paris for New Years, but the holiday closings put a bit of dapper on my plans. In Ireland I completely gave up and just walked the city- great finds where everywhere.

 In Paris, I bought a museum pass and with my friend walked the city for hours playing tourist. My last stop before trekking on home was Bayeux, France to visit the beaches of D-Day, but sadly I did no research and showed up dead in the middle of Off-season, ha!

The entire trip went well, I enjoyed more than I could have ever expected to experience and cannot wait to venture back to Ireland and complete all that I did not accomplish. Instead of a long- over done blog I'm just going to provide small feedback in the categories of The Good, The Bad, and The Over It . . .

Ireland

The Good:

• The Irish are friendly, welcoming, good-natured generous folk who have left a lasting impression upon me.
• The food is damn good, get a burger. Enjoy the portions and say hello to a traditional, solid breakfast for me please.
• The tourism is not overwhelming in Ireland. Seriously, in the museums, attractions or popular sites the lines were not ridiculous and the pace was very relaxed.
• The Irish love their arts so there are plenty of shows of all types to take-in when visiting. I was able to catch a Friday night show of Wicked, a book a fell in love with ages ago and a soundtrack I've been singing since freshman year of college.

The Bad:

• Dublin is a tourist location and therefor everything is priced accordingly. Budget well, so you don't go broke.

The Over It:

• The weather in Dublin can be wearing on the spirit- rainy, but no umbrellas allowed because of the wind. Or it can be a triumph that you didn't let it get you down, your choice.

Paris

The Good:

• Plenty of attractions, museums, and historical sites to see. One of my favorite surprise visits was the Military Museum, I saw knight armor in person for the first time in my life. Thanks for that Paris.
• The D'Orly, this was not on anyone's must see list, but I'm telling you to put it on yours. Words can not describe how easy this is compared to the Louvre, but yet still as intense in the level of art provided.
• Obviously, you are going to find some good shops at all different prices. I bought a purse that I was positive would require the loss of a leg, but it didn't and now I have a Modern Mary Poppins bag for life.
• Hidden gems around every corner, seriously. While walking down one street I turned and discovered these impressive doors that opened to amazing landscaping and architecture.
• Finding a travel companion who is on the same page as you works great. AND I found one in a old friend from when I was attending Spanish classes in Seville- Jaime! We had a blast, sight seeing or not sight seeing. Going to museums or shopping, thank goodness for this lady or Paris would have definitely been a bust.

  

  Travel Friends!

  
  

  

  Surprise Find!

The Bad:

• Every step you take there is a tourist. This is a city that thrives on Tourism and if you are looking to hang with the locals don't go here- they know you're not local and what nothing to do with your stinky tourist self.
• The metro is no joke. Once you get it, you still have much to learn.
• You better book it or research heavily ahead a time. Beginners luck is nice, but honestly cover charges exist, the streets twist and turn and if it's popular event you could easily miss out. Do your research, remember this is a popular travel city that offers much, but you can easily miss out if you don't plan.

The Over It:

• At many Information or Help desk I encounter folks who did not speak English or Spanish- that's two of the top spoken languages in the entire world. Unacceptable at a place were you are suppose to be helping people who are most likely from a different country.
• The Lines, even with a fast pass I waited in line at least an hour ( no longer than two thank goodness), but the poor folks buying tickets at that moment passed at least 4-5 ( The Louvre) in line. Get the fast pass or be prepared to only move inches over along time period.

The Louvre

Paris City Lights

Bayeux

All Good:

This is in Normandy and better known as the beaches of D-Day. As I did not plan and thank goodness because after Paris relaxation was just what the doctor ordered. Interestingly enough Bayeux, I was informed, did not suffer any damage during the wars and the historical buildings and houses are still standing; which, made for very whimsical cottage town scenery.
 The food was great, I believed in eating dessert and a full meal along with a drink known in the area as Cider Brandy, Calvados. The Brandy is sold in many stores. Should you go during season you'll catch many stores and cheese and wine cafes open, along with all tourist locations; such as, The Modern Museum and The Tapestry Museum.

These Bayeux Streets

And Home Sweet Jaen Again!

 

Whoosh, that was a lot! Maybe from here on I'll just go read in park. Actually, my goal for this semester is to see some more of Spain.

Even though I came to live in Jaen and not just exist until I could travel, there are places I'm planning on visiting, but please known getting to know all the wonderful people I've met here is my main goal.

I would love to hear all about your Holiday Breaks or even Holiday travel experiences, I hope each and everyone enjoyed those you love and took some time to relax. If you have any further questions about these places feel free to ask!

 Until next time, Adios, Hasta Pronto, Be Blessed  . . .

 

Barcelona: Where the Spanish Europeans Reside

I have no clue what exactly the comment, "Barcelona is the Europe of Spain" means, but I cannot count how many times the lovely folks of Andalusia said exactly those words when they found out I would be visiting the city of Barcelona. On our December Puente I was planning a solo trip to Barcelona because I love traveling solo and plenty of people speak English so getting from point A to B would not be to difficult.

 About a week before a new friend asked if she could join and I agreed without hesitation because sometimes company really is nice. We had a wonderful time and I was thankful for her ease with asking three strangers in a row if the directions we had received from five other strangers were correct so as to make sure we always knew where we were located and moving towards. Since we are new friends it was great getting to know each other and our conversation did not become stale or forced at any point. More importantly she did not judge my zealous desire to eat Barcelona whole in three days.

The plan according to all the advice and research I completed was to visit as many historical sites as possible and devour all the European style eats as possible- tapas are not free in Basque country and if I'm paying for the food I'd rather it be in large quantities.

So we walked and we visited and we ate, and we ate some more. Over all the trip was great, I definitely plan to return AND that is not an empty threat. Breaking down the places and spaces works better than trying to fit everything into a essay style analysis with witty commentary, so read what you want and comment when you want.

Sites

Barcelona: Seriously. The architecture and layout of the city is very different compared to the other cities of Spain. There are no Pueblos Blancos and Plazas have a different layout style. The buildings are different stone and the way they loom over the street gives way to a very gothic mind frame. After discussing with some Spanish friends it was explained to me that Barcelona is a Modernism city, one of two that fall under Spanish rule ( the other is actually located in Africa).
La Sagrada Familia: I was amazed at the genius that designed and built this Cathedral or Basilica. While the design and idea belongs to Guadi due to his unexpected death others have worked on the completion of the Cathedral for the last 100 years. At this time the area they are working on is a carving of an open book with the phrase, "Our Father Who Art in Heaven" in 25 different languages. Very powerful. While I was able to enjoy La Sagrada Familia I was not able to shake the notions that the Chapel was not meant to be downstairs. That Guadi meant for those attending to worship with the light flooding in many different colors and the presence of nature surrounding all present. He built La Sagrada Familia as a man of faith wanting to enhance the worship of others with the beauty of nature and that is not possible to do when the building is a tourist attraction. While I know that service is held on Saturday and Sunday, and I respect the decision of where worship service is held and tourist roam I cannot help but wonder if Guadi would be of the same respectful mind frame.
Guadi House: I was just fascinated in being able to visually see Guadi transform in his work and goals of design. Anyone interested in how much nature and faith played a part in his work life should definitely visit the house. Unfortunately I have no picture inside due to not knowing how to turn the flash off of my camera (ha!).
Park Guell: Take the elevator. Don't second glance the welcome sign for tourist ( not welcoming at all) and enjoy the views. Also, enjoy the lady playing the homemade harp. You are able to see the entire city of Barcelona, La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Guadi House. All while surrounded by some beautiful wooded area. The park is named after the man who funded many of Guadi's projects. Guell intended for the area to actually be a housing complex were the house were small and the gardens large. The entire area screams "Guadi built me, enjoy"!
Picasso Museum: Picasso in his youth was a force to be reckon with, take note. I would definitely suggest the Audio Tour so that you can truly understand the images you are seeing. My favorite part was seeing the Picasso take on other famous works featured in the Prado in Madrid.

Eats and Treats

Poppy: THIS.PLACE. This sweet, dream circus of a playhouse. If I could have moved in I would have, but I doubt the regulars and staff would agree to such an agreement. The food was rich, the Swiss Coco had melted chocolate and homemade marshmallows. And that Carrot Cake, damn.
Kiosko: A burger the size of my head- I measured. You will wait in line. You will drool at those eating already while you wait. You will then check-off the ingredients that you want to fill and progressively fall-out of your burger as you eat. You will order, hunt down a spot ( no worries all are conscious of the quick life span of their seat, 30 minutes max), then sit in that spot and watch the counter until your food starts floating towards you in the hand of a nice server. Then you will eat the burger the size of your head. With your choice of fries, potato wedges, or papas bravas. While you eat you may or may not add one of the four sauces mixed in city and all good- your choice again. Everything is your choice, your wants, your desires and yours to enjoy.
Milk: I expected, Minimalism and clean cut. Wrong. First off all after walking to the end of Barcelona and taking an exit right before the ports you will find this place in what I later realized was El Born. The mood was more dive bar, speakeasy style. Which is perfect for me, especially since the lighting still allowed me to see the cute bartender. The burger involved onions caramelized in balsamic vinegar. Enough said.
The Pub: An English Pub located in the middle of everything. A great place for those strictly traveling to take a break- a little getaway. But honestly, really just a place to go if you do live in Spain after living somewhere else and know that other beers exist outside Cruzcampo.
Name Unknown: To the sweet little cupcake shop and legit pizzeria, I apologize that I was so focused on eating your deliciousness I did not pause for details. Sincerely, I'll make it up to you the next time I visit. Promise. Both are located in central areas and the cupcake shop was celebrating its grand opening to great success.

Aide and Advice

Ask your Spanish friends, ask your friends who have lived in Spain, ask people who know people who have study abroad in Spain and then ask friends whose parent traveled in Spain during their 25th anniversary. Once you've compiled a first witness account start doing some research on the World Wide Web and feel free to stop by the following places that gave me a little helping hand.

Pinterest:  Seriously, this place rules the world, so of course traveling the world guides are in abundance.
City Blink Blog: Thanks for the hangover suggestion places, but more importantly the introduction to Milk and Kiosko.
TimeOut: Honestly, if you plan on traveling to any city in Europe I would suggest stopping by the TimeOut Blog for some tips. They're considered for the Hipster crowd only, but honestly I just like that they think outside the box of places to visit.
Driftwood Journals: This blog is written by a gentleman who actually lived in Barcelona for some time and not only does he provide places to visit, but some cheap tricks to boot. For sure invest in the Metro card he suggest, you will need the metro to get to some Tourist spots AND from the airport/train station into the city.

 

If you've yet to visit I hope this little blurb helps you figure out where your headed and what to eat AND if you have visited feel free to add tips and tidbits to the comments section- the more the merrier! Below are some photos to thank you for your time and bearing with this very long winded blog post.

 

Hope you're enjoying the holiday season, Until Next Time . . . Adios, Hasta Pronto, Be Blessed!