- First things first, it's hot. Especially for a pale, English girl like me. I arrived in January and, while it was admittedly an extremely mild winter in Spain, I was still surprised with the weather difference. Although, the longer you stay, the more acclimatized you become to this beautiful way of living. I flew home for a few weeks in March and let me tell you, while everyone was in t-shirts and sunglasses, enjoying the small amount of sun rays the British weather gave them, I was constantly wrapped in 3-4 layers, plus hat and scarf. Acclimatized, indeed. If you are holidaying in the colder months, I would pack medium thickness jumpers and one thick-ish coat, just in case. (It gets chilly at night). But, after March, the thick coat won't be needed.
- The fashion in Barcelona isn't much different to that in England. Mostly casual, a pair of jeans and a top. Even with my line of work as a Teacher, we still wear jeans.
- Coffee is super strong and gorgeous, and you will get a black coffee if you don't ask for a 'cafe con leche' (coffee with milk). It's usually quite cheap as well, the cheapest in the 1-1.50€ range. Take note, however, that a 'small' coffee is an espresso. And always say 'cafe'. A 'coffee shop' means something completely different in Spain.
- A good tip is to always have cash on you, not just your card. I still don't trust using my card in smaller shops, especially the multiple bazaars that are everywhere in Barcelona. Although, maybe I'm just paranoid.
- I've never taken the Underground in London, but the Metro in Barcelona is very cheap. It costs 10€ for a 10 trip card, which I think is very good, especially since the moment you use your card to enter the Metro station, you can take as many Metros as you like without paying extra. However, the Metros are rife with pickpockets, so it's a good idea to bring a bag that you can keep close to your body and/or are able to keep hold of the zipper.
- On Sundays, most of the Museums are free entry after 3pm, however, I have a feeling they get very crowded in the summer. But it's a brilliant activity to do if you're holidaying on a budget.
- Compared to British cities like London, Barcelona is such a peaceful and green city. Sure, it still has it's crime and crowds, but the locals here are laid-back and more often than not, very friendly. Trees line every street, which makes my country-born-heart smile.
- Crowds. Crowds everywhere. My best advice is to avoid La Rambla at all costs. It's ridiculous now, and it's only May. Not only are there Tourists everywhere, but locals trying to take advantage of said tourists. For a 6" English-speaking girl, I don't blend in with the local Spanish crowd, and therefore I'm an easy target for the men on La Rambla. Some try to sell you beer (these guys are absolutely everywhere, you can't stop them. So Annoying), some try to take you to a party and others try and sell you illegal drugs. They are never respectful to women, and I have had to be extremely rude to some of them when they've come too close and even grabbed my arm.
- Related to my previous point, if you do a little digging, you'll find some amazing places that aren't on La Rambla, and therefore saving you from the onslaught of those people. There are many bars, cafes, and even clubs that aren't in the typical tourist area that have quickly become my favourite places. Not only do you escape the river of crowds, but also a cheaper deal. One big tip is to never eat or drink anything on La Rambla. Bloody rip offs.
So, these are just a few bits of information and advice if you're planning to visit Barcelona. I know some of these are quite negative, but I love this city and it's atmosphere. I only came over for a 3-month internship and now I can't imagine moving back to England. Maybe after I have traveled the world. Maybe then.
Anyway, I hope this helps,
Adios!
Bea.
Photo Credit: http://2015.phpconference.es/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/barcelona-spain-1.jpg
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