Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the top destinations in Spain for most students studying abroad. There is so much to see that at first the city seems overwhelming. I will try to attempt to narrow down some of the basics.

The sights:

• La Sagrada Familia: Gaudi's architectural masterpiece. This church which began construction over 100 years ago is still not complete. This is a MUST SEE because unlike most other churches which more or less look the same, Gaudi has created a cathedral that is in a league of its own.
• Be sure to walk by Gaudi's other works because his architecture will not disappoint: Casa Batllo, La Pedrera and Park Guell. If you're on a budget, Park Guell is the best free attraction in Barcelona. This park is situated on a hill overlooking the entire city. Make the extra effort to climb the stairs all the way to the top and you'll be rewarded with the best views of the city.
• Get lost walking around in the Barri Gothic and Born neighborhoods. It's pretty incredible what you will stumble upon just wandering around.
• Visit the Pablo Picasso museum. Free on Sundays
• Explore Montjuic. This hill overlooking the ocean has a castle on top, as well as numerous museums and parks. This was also the site of the 1992 Summer Olympics. The Olympic Stadium is free and there is a great museum for only 2.50 Euros. Additionally make sure you finish this excursion by heading to Placa D'Espanya to watch La Font Magica which is a fountain light show timed to music each night.
• Take a stroll down La Rambla, which is a hub of Barcelona with countless street performers, restaurants, and shops.
• Watch the surfers, kite boarders, swimmers, and sunbathers along the beach at Barceloneta. Be sure to stop by Port Olympic where you will find a great variety of restaurants, bars, and discotecas along the beach.

NOTE: Don't forget to watch out for pick pockets. There is no need to be afraid of thieves in Barcelona as long as you exercise caution during your time there. When in large crowds or riding public transportation keep your hands in your pockets and your purses or backpacks in front of you. Simply being aware of your surroundings will send a signal to pick pockets that you are not the easy target they're looking for.

Transportation to Barcelona:
I would recommend booking a flight through Vueling Airlines. This airline is the cheapest and best airline to get anywhere in Spain. Unlike RyanAir, Vueling will fly directly into Barcelona's airport instead of the airports and hour outside of town (Girona and Reus). Be careful when booking your flight to Barcelona because if you fly in to GRO or REU then you will have to catch an hour long bus into town that will cost you about 10 additional Euros. From the Barcelona airport there is a bus that will take your right to the center of town. If you get off at the centrally located Placa de Catalunya, there is a tourist booth where you can get a map and directions to your hotel or hostel.

I find the Catalan culture particular interesting and the views they have of the rest of Spain, as well as the views other Spaniards have of Catalan. Barcelona being a part of Catalan for the most part wants to be considered a separate nation. They are proud of their culture which is very different than other parts of Spain and they even speak a different language. This creates quite a controversy among most Spaniards and they won't be afraid to express their opinions.
Overall, Barcelona is a sight to see. Don't miss it.