Y’all have heard me talk about how much I love Spain, and this post is dedicated to all things Barcelona. My little sister wrote this list during her study abroad semester, and is hoping that some day she’ll be able to move there permanently. Here are some major tips on what to know before visiting this incredible city. Enjoy!
You walk everywhere. Before I went to Barcelona I read the countless articles on disappointed girls who brought their cute heels and booties to blend in with other fashionista Spaniards. Truth is, locals don't wear heels and neither should you. The unfortunate outcome is all those shoes will do is take up space and weight in your bag.
Spanish is not a must. You can certainly get by without knowing Spanish, but there were many times I was grateful for the little that I knew. Spend your flight going over basic phrases just in case. If you are hoping to learn Spanish, keep in mind that in Barcelona they speak Catalan, so you will not consistently hear Spanish on the streets or read it on the signs.
Don't be afraid. Many people overseas have a stereotype that Americans are cold and unfriendly. I quickly noticed this as I watched people hesitate to approach me and other Americans. Break the stereotype. Don't assume a local speaks English. We are in their country and let's not forget that nobody in America would approach us in another language besides English. My local supermarket clerk once told me "I respect the young Americans so much more that attempt broken Spanish rather than perfect English."
Try not to look so touristy. Instead of pulling out that huge Metro map, simply download the app on your phone. The first few weeks I would secretly check my route on the app, but to those around me it looked as if I had mastered public transportation. Prior to your trip, I would recommend downloading the city map on the Google Maps App. It can track your location and where you want to go even without Wi-Fi or service.
It is still important to be a tourist. Though I put in my best effort to appear as a local, you still should do touristy things. Take the time to tour the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. These attractions represent Barcelona and are a huge part of the people. Familiarize yourself with major artists such as Antoni Gaudí, so you can recognize his work throughout the city. The Sagrada Família has been under construction since 1882 and is fully funded by donations from the community. It is the church of the people and church of Barcelona. Set aside time in your schedule to make this attraction a priority.
Wear black. From the shoes, to the coat and up to the hat most everything the Spanish wear is a dark color. If you want to wear a bright color just know that you might as well be holding up a sign that says "I am not from here." And keep your leggings and yoga pants at home. The Spanish dress to impress with tights, jeans, skirts and dresses.
Take it easy on the makeup and hair. As I mentioned earlier, the Spanish dress to impress but this doesn't include a curling iron and contour kit. The Spanish go for a very natural look and rock frizzy hair. Spotting curled hair is the same as spotting bright colors, you simply are an American who just hasn't gotten the memo yet.
The food is incredible! Take advantage of the fresh and cheap produce. Food is good, portions are small, lunch is irrelevant and dinner is late. These are all norms of the food culture in Barcelona. Small outdoor cafes were always a favorite of mine, but never ever underestimate a food truck or random hole in the wall that you come across.
You don’t need to check everything off your list. There are endless amounts of activities, food, night life and attractions you could see in Barcelona. However, even after I spent 5 months in the city it was near impossible to do everything I wanted and I wouldn’t recommend it. My best piece of advice to you is take things as they come and live in the moment. Try new things and new places, keep a flexible schedule so you don’t miss out on a great find and don’t stretch yourself thin because you might just forget to embrace the culture along the way.
Happy Traveling