The Sky is the Limit in Barcelona!

WOW! I would give anything to be able relive my amazing experience in Barcelona! I just recently returned from my Spanish course there, and I already feel that I want to go back and live there one day. There is just so much to see and do that it leaves you wanting to do it all over again! From stunning beaches to bustling commercial centers and incredible architecture to picturesque parks, Barcelona has it all…and more!

I fell in love with the intricate and clever designs of all of Antonio Gaudi’s architectural projects around the city: Casa Batlló, La Sagrada Familia, Casa Milá…and most especially Parque Güell. I could really see how groundbreaking Gaudi’s work must have been when the park opened almost 100 years ago…I was in awe with the brightly colored mosaics that cover the park terraces, the remarkable dragon fountain that greets you at the entrance, and the breathtaking view of Barcelona from atop the world’s largest park bench!

On the weekends, I would always find time to walk along Las Ramblas. It is an amazing pedestrianised boulevard which is full of lively and comical street performers, art sellers, delicious food stands, and anything else you can imagine! No matter which direction you look in, and no matter what time of day you are there, you can always find an amazing mix of people. Locals chatting with their neighbors, families taking an evening stroll, or tourists looking for souvenirs, the perfect restaurant, bar or café…the whole area has an electric atmosphere. For me, it really felt like the heart of Barcelona!

One day, I wandered to the end of Las Ramblas and found myself in the Port Vell area. It is an amazing place to hang out – it has the largest aquarium in Europe, an IMAX 3D theatre, and an incredible harbor-side mall! I had a great time watching a movie in the super air-conditioned IMAX theatre – not only was it a great chance to relax in the cool, but my Spanish really improved with the movie! My friends told me that there is also a lively nightlife in the Port Vell area. There was so much to do that I ran out of my time, but the next time I visit Barcelona, enjoying a yummy seafood dinner with some friends at one of the many ocean view restaurants will be my number one priority!

Even though I am the type of person who likes to be out and about, I was always really happy to return to my room in the residence. I had some great evenings hanging out with my friends from all over the world and enjoying nice casual 10 o’clock dinners together (which, for me, took a while to get used to :)).

I honestly and truly had the time of my life in Barcelona. Everything in the city was exactly what I needed to have an incredible experience…and my Spanish improved immensely! I only wish I was rediscovering Barcelona right now!

Jeffrey (USA)