Barcelona adventure travel guide
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Barcelona Highlights (Edit)
Barcelona has to be one of those top 10 destinations to live in the world. Anywhere that has a siesta at the hottest time of the day, food to die for, culture that oozes from every part of the city and a nightlife to stay up late for has to be a top 10.....The shopping (regardless if you a guy of girl) is unbelievable and at prices that won't kill your back pocket.
It is also one of those places that can be done in a weekend (preferrably 3 days) as there are numerous flights available from London (and at reasonable prices). The city is completely geared up for travellers and at most places the locals do speak English. However that being said, if you venture a little into the back streets behind Las Ramblas to experience "real local hospitality".
Getting off the plane and into the heart of Barcelona couldn’t be easier with their great ‘Every 6 minute’ bus service to Placa Catalunya – just come out of the airport and look for the blue buses. You don’t need to buy a ticket before you get on as you can get them from the driver – only €3.90. Just be careful when getting aboard a full bus.. the driver tends to yell out (obviously you don’t understand what he’s saying – but he will shut the automatic door on you pretty fast if you’re not careful!)
The metro system is also very good (must have been from the Olympics in ’92) – cost is €1.25 for asingle, however you can get 1,2 and 3 day passes which are also very reasonable. The metro closes at 1am on Friday nights and 11 all other nights, so if you’re partying into the night, there’s a good chance you’ll need a cab.
One great feature are all the coffee shops/bars on the streets. Not Starbucks, but real cafes which is a great thing as its great to sit back and just watch the world pass by.
For those looking for hostels, hotels, beds, rooms etc there are loads but obviously it is best to book in advance to get somewhere close to Las Ramblas.
This is one place you do have to be a little careful at night because drunk travellers = easy targets. We've had many friends robbed in Barcelona, mostly at night and mostly in the back alleys (you'll see what I mean when you get there).
For single female travellers, pay a bit extra and get a decent place close (or on Las Ramblas)...the extra couple of bucks you'll pay will be worth it to avoid the anxiety of not sure if someone is lurking behind you at night. But please understand something, this is no different from nearly every other city...but the difference with Barcelona is that the nightlife will keep you out late because it is a great place to chill....
