All About Barcelona

Before we give you the lowdown on one of our favorite cities in the world, we have a few tips to pass along about Spain & Barcelona in general:

Spain is known for its amazing food, tapas (little bite like appetizers), and vino tinto (red wine). Spain also has friendly people, fashionable women, and all night parties at the clubs and bars.

So you must get on Spanish time ASAP if you truly want to experience their culture and nightlife. They do not eat dinner until around 10pm and they do not go out to clubs until after midnight. You go home when the sun comes up. You sleep for a few hours. You eat a big lunch around 2pm. Naps are allowed in the afternoon, but usually around 6pm. And the cycle continues. You can see why Hemingway hung out here quite a bit.

The people in Barcelona are very proud to be Catalan as well as Spanish. They speak with a tiny accent that is different than other parts of the country like Madrid. So do not get discouraged if you cannot understand them and learn the phrase, "Repitan mas despacio por favor" (please repeat a bit slower).

And now...on with the countdown!

In a privileged position on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula and the exquisite shores of the Mediterranean (in the very north of the Spanish coast), Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain (in both size and population). Way more than just a single city, Barcelona is a metropolis - one that's amazing in its assemblage of multi-faceted and diverse areas. After an extreme makeover that's lasted more than two decades, Barcelona has transformed itself into one of the most dynamic and stylish cities in the world. Those who visit it and are unfamiliar with its history, may be surprised to learn that such a modern and cosmopolitan area even preserves its historic center almost intact.

For those reasons (and, according to every poll worth its clipboard), you'll be glad to know that Barcelona is also the one European city best loved by visitors; and to the current generation of cultural dilettantes and frequent jetSetters, it's nearly impossible to imagine that it ever wasn't! Summer in Barcelona is serious party-time - with week-long fiestas (yes, we did say week l-o-n-g!). But year-round, the city still pulsates and sizzles - always on the very edge of architecture, food, fashion, style and music. And, to top it off: Barcelona is only a short ferry ride from the beautiful island of Ibiza, another destination where partygoers have been raving to the best DJs in the world for decades. We, at journeyPod strongly recommend a trip to Ibiza if you're a nightowl and on the prowl for some excitement. Once you embark on Barcelona, the buildings - especially the work of the eccentric genius Gaudi - will blow you away! The art - with impressive collections by Picasso and Miro - will make you forget where you (who you're with, what you're doing...). And, the people - with their passion, exuberance, spirit, and persistent egalitarianism, will completely fascinate you.

For all you foodies out there, Barcelona is a powerhouse of culinary fares that draws foodies from the States, Japan and Australia to check out what's cookin. There has been a rash of new and amazing dining options, among them are those we've listed below. So, no matter what your budget or belly size, you're sure to find something to suit your craving - everything from tiny tapas to gargantuan feasts. Also, while you're here - make sure you check out at least one of the many Museos de Jamon (Ham museums). Yes, its true: a museum dedicated to the different types of Ham found in Spain.

Breakfast (desayuno) in Barcelona is usually a no-nonsense affair, lunch (comida) on the other hand - is the the main meal of the day. And, no local would ever even contemplate dinner (sopar/cena) before 9 p.m.. That said, though restaurants tend to say open pretty late (til' 1 a.m. or so), keep in mind that most kitchens close by 11:30 p.m. For those with an early appetite - don't panic! If your gastric juices are flowing and you simply can't hold out until then, you can easily track down something to snack on outside these times.

As most metropolitan cities, Barcelona is bursting at the seams - with pubs, feverish dance clubs, hedonistic gay bars, and a number of jazz and rock venues (with salsa and flamenco never too far away). For those interested in checking out the nightlife scene, you'll be glad to know that there are five area options in Barcelona:

El Ensanche - Three completely different ambiances in this modernist part of the city. Here you'll find locals and tourists checking out the gorgeous architecture and the hottest nightspots.

Gracia - This is where most locals are concentrated, like Plaza Rius I Taulet and Plaza del Sol. Everyone can find something to do in this part of the city - just make sure you've got your camera and euros in hand.

La Barceloneta - Back in the day, this was a district of fisherman; today, this area has grown to an impressive infrastructure of modern gastronomy. Bring your appetite.

Santolo - San Gervasi - In this part of the city, you'll discover the highest concentration of young and fashionable locals (especially where the streets of S Santalo and Mariano Cubi cross). They fill the bars (be sure to check out the #1 cocktail, Mr. JJ - a concoction of Jameson, lime juice and vanilla sugar) for good music, good drinks and good fun! And, at Plaza Francesca Macia is where you'll meet the cream of the crop of Barcelona's night life.

Las Ramblas - Last but not least, the best known landmark of Barcelona. Strolling down La Rambla (at any hour of the day) you'll find everything from street performers to outdoor concerts and some of the trendiest bars and restaurants.

Now, what are you waiting for - check out our journeyPod picks and be on your way!


Restaurants

El Bulli - Restaurant Magazine voted this jewel the "Best Restaurant in the World" (April '06). And, journeyPod can see why! Located on Costa Brava, 2 hours north of Barcelona, the restaurant is so worth the drive. Matthew Jukes, author of the Wine List of 2003, praises El Bulli for being a "Culinary Nirvana". Chef Ferran Adria startles and surprises the palate with an unusual menu - choices ranging from butter ravioli wrapped in a gelatin of marine water to peach dipped in liquid hydrogen. His culinary combinations might seem odd but he is commonly regarded as one of the greatest chefs in the world. El Bulli has three prestigious Michelin stars and the waiting list for a table can take up to a year. So, book ahead and then go ahead and tell all your friends that you've eaten at the Best Restaurant in the World!

Bestial - Fashion-meets-food in this chic restaurant/bar establishment. A multi-level space with a beautiful waterfront terrace, folks here can relax at their tables, sip fine cocktails and taste delicious Italian-Catalan dishes. Local DJ's spin ambient sounds to the succulent tastes of Bestial.

Shoko - This Japanese/Mediterranean restaurant fuses Asian and Spanish cuisine- sushi, tapas, steak and seafood - with smooth trance sounds. Guests relax on the terrace as they gaze into the endless sea, while Oriental dance and martial arts demonstrations entertain guests nightly. The venue also morphs into a club at the sound of a gong featuring house and soul. And here's a tip: try the artichoke and codfish risotto with a glass of the finest white wine.

Tapioles 53 - This relaxing, intimate and friendly venue is a favorite spot among locals. Guest sip sangria at wooden tables and enjoy wild mushrooms picked daily, along with sea salt gathered from natural salt pans in Greece. The best part of this place though is that there is no set menu - Chef Sarah Stothart will greet you personally and tell you what the specials are and how exactly she will prepare them. But, to receive this type of VIP treatment - make sure you have a reservation before stopping by. Tapioles 53 is a true Barcelonian treat!

Mam i Teca - The name comes from an old Catalan expression meaning "food and drink"- which this restaurant has mastered year after year. Mam I Teca is a true tapas eatery that serves only the freshest small plates. For those of you who have traveled to Barcelona - these are not the tapas you see sitting in the window all day. Whether you desire anchovies, cured meats, or feel adventurous and want to try the daily specials such as pork confit and asparagus with shrimp - you simply can not go wrong with any dish here.

Comerc24 - Located in an old salting house, Comerc24 has a remarkable ambience to it. The mood and decor are contemporary and guests enjoy famous melt-in-your-mouth Japanese Kobe steak, Tuna sashimi, or impressive world cheese assortments. So, whatever you might be in the mood for that day, this place is sure to satisfy your taste.

Cinc Sentits - The native, contemporary cuisine at Cinc Sentits attracts the real food conisseurs out there. Located on Calle Aribau, this eatery definitely knows how to make the perfect dish for you. Presentation and taste are impecable and the Wild Mediterranean Sea Bass melts in your mouth. The seasonal "Cher's 8-course Tasting Menu" hand-picked from the Chef, lets your tongue explore only the freshest meats and seafood from Barcelona.

Lasarte -Located in Hotel Condes de Barcelona, Lasarte is the winner of 3 Michelin stars. Chef Martin Berasategui pleases his guests with the perfect Catalan concoction. The decor is sheek, and beautiful white murals adorn the walls. The food and wine also speak for themselves. Definitely try the caramelized green apples with foie gras and smoked eel - just some of the restaurants specialties.

Moo - Hello all you wine conisseurs. We have not forgotten about you! So, you might just want to remember this three letter restaurant while traveling through Barcelona. The sommelier will introduce you to the perfect wine that pairs well with the sauces, texture and overall taste of the food you order. Try the layered orange cream, saffron flan, honey and brioche (can you tell that we at journeyPod have quite the sweet tooth?).

Caelis - Located in the Hotel Palace of Barcelona, this gourmet restaurant allows guests to enjoy Chef Romain Fornell's French and Catalan magic while sitting under beautiful chandeliers in an old palace style restaurant. Whether you order fresh caviar, escargot, scallops or jamon iberico, Caelis is sure to leave your palette and your belly satisfied.

Ravalo - This Pizza terrace destination is a cozy spot which will make you feel like you're sitting in the middle of Venice. At Ravolo you can enjoy buffalo mozarella and carpaccio before tasting the award-winning pizza. Seafood lovers will enjoy the Pizza Barcelona - a combination of fresh seafood on top of the perfect thin crust pizza. An intimate spot that's also great for people-watching, Ravolo lets you have it all - including your chance to sip on traditional Italian Prosecco and devouring the homemade tiramisu.

El Raco de Can Fabes - Located 30 minutes outside of Barcelona, this gourmet 3-century old citadel (located in the heart of an old Catalan village) is a true gem. The restaurant has received, quite deservingly, three Michelin stars for presentation and quality of its handcrafted food. The crayfish entrees at El Raco de Can Fabes will leave you pleasantly satisfied. Just make sure you take a stroll through the cobblestone village before heading back to the city.


Bars & Nightlife

La Paloma - Despite the neighbourhood's efforts to silence it, La Paloma recently celebrated its 100th birthday. And talk about a transformation. The red velvet-lined foyer reveals a lavishly restored belle epoque theatre and dancehall complete with shimmering chandeliers and plush balconies. Though it's a strange spectacle for those who arrive early - Grandma and Grandpa in full evening wear still foxtrotting after the ballroom sessions finish and the house and broken beats begin at 2:30 a.m. On Thursday nights, the Bongo Lounge DJs mix funk and Latin rhythms with psychedelic lights and live jazz, while Vegas-style go-go dancers compete for attention. No matter what - this is a great place to end the night off right!

Razzmatazz - If you have ever tried to find the right music to appease all the very different interests of your friends, then this place is your savior! Razzmatazz is the place to be - and five thousand clubbers can not be wrong. The mother off all warehouse super-clubs (not to mention, the best live venue in all of the city), Razzmatazz caters to every clubbers' need - including its choice of Rock, Pop, Indie vibe and House in the different rooms. One of Barcelona's most popular spots, doors here open at 1 am. (and the place now offers clubbers the chance to take in all of its five spaces for a single admission price.). So, whether you're a goth, punk, mod, technophile or electrotrash, young Catalans (and tourists) from Badalona and beyond trek here to dance until they drop. This is a place Jarvis Cocker, Miss Kittin and Dave Clark, as well as bands from Air to Blur, call home when they visit the city.

CDLC Barcelona - This exclusive club (aka - Carpe Diem Lounge Club) is the darling of of the Barca football team (it's owned by the wife of ex-Barca man Patrick Kluivert) and other celebs. The hub to the fashion crowd of Barcelona, CDLC works hard to be the most exclusive club on the nightlife circuit - even going so far as to refuse entry to its own invited VIPs. But hey! If Rod Stewart got in, you shouldn't have a problem either! Once you embark inside this hot spot, you'll find a space to suit any one of your moods - from the swanky bed-sized sofas, to the fast-moving dance floor and beachfront terrace. Resident DJ Anne-Miek and other Int'l guests play soulful, vocal house.

Dostrece - A sexy cocktail bar with Brazilian flavor, Dostrece boasts eclectic decor that adorns the walls as guests sip on their favorite Brazilian concoctions. A skilled bar staff here also puts every muscle into making sure that the caprioska you just ordered has been squeezed to perfection. And before you grab your partner for a whirl across the dance floor (to flamenco and jazz beats), make sure you indulge in the fantastic Spanish meat and cheese tapas that are offered here. A very trendy place in the busy streets of Calle Carme, Dostrece attracts both tourists and locals alike.

Nubaa - There is life beyond Las Ramblas - (tourists often forget this)! One such place is called Nubaa - an affordable night out for travelers and locals. This Mediterranean bar boasts modernist architecture, cutting-edge fashion and Latin Rhythms. As the evening progresses - the restaurant evolves into a fusion restaurant and club with a variety of DJ styles from all over Europe - different from one night to the next. Oh, and here's a tip: on Sundays, you can bring your laptop for WiFi internet day - so get your group together and sip on Martinis while you surf the net.

Discotheque - At the forefront of the A-list clubs, Discotheque features nights with names like 'Ken loves you' or 'F#@ck me, I'm famous'. Inside you'll find projections, drag queens, podium dancers and a VIP bar that creates the Ibiza-when-it-was-still-hot vibe. Here is where you'll also find the young and the beautiful using their looks and attitude to blag their way in. So on that note: dress in your trendiest!

Danzatoria - A beautiful three-story suburban house, Danzatoria is located on a hill that has been turned into a swanky bar. Said to be the place of the attractive people in Barcelona, the crowd here mingles and walks around the corridors of this palazzo. Sangria at Danzatoria is the (good) strong kind - not the watery mixture you might find in the cafes at the plazas. FYI: Hen and stag parties often use this venue to celebrate their last night of being single and MTV has been known to host a party or two here.

La Fira - It's called a 'bar-museum', but don't worry - you don't get served a history lesson along with your pint of lager when you drink at this fairytale-themed bar. A perfect spot for the child-adventure-seeker in you, guests at La Fira can get their fortunes told, ride on the roundabouts and make fun of each other in the distorting mirrors. And for fun, half-naked men serve cocktails while guests enjoy the bizarre amenities. This boutique style lounge screams a good time!

Particular - Situated around a villa, guest at Particular can relax in this homey-feel of a surrounding. Sophisticated and stylish, the interior decor is hacienda-on-sea. And the crowds who frequent the place sip on wine as they're nestled in the garden overlooking the gorgeous city. So, if you're looking for great views (perfect for picture-taking) and a nice relaxing time, head on over to Particular.

Elephant - This dream-like club, with its amazing bamboo garden, colonial sculptures and Arabic influences will make you feel like you've just stepped into a page of the Arabian Nights. And, if you have a Porsche and a model girlfriend, this is also the place where you'll meet your night owl peers. Housed in a converted mansion, Elephant boasts bronzed elephants which tower over the hip and fashionable crowd as they socialize and party till the early hours of the morning to Latin house, R&B, club, chill-out, and 80's music. The big attraction is also the outdoor bar and terrace dance floor.

Sala Apolo - This 1940's dancehall - located in the center of town - is host to some of Barcelona's best live performances from well-known artists, world-famous DJs and fun cover bands. Themed nights are the name of the game here. Thursdays to Saturdays you'll find everyone from Lee Scratch Perry to Gotan Project; Wednesday nights feature Canibal Sound System - which truly stretches the term "Latin music" to include hip hop and funk. Bottom line: it's a fun time - no matter which night you decide to check it out!

Shoko - Located on the beach next to the well-known twin towers, this trendy Japanese restaurant, lounge and club is home to the movers and shakers of Barcelona. An oasis of good vibes, Shoko features lighting and decor that's been carefully selected by a feng shui designer to make sure that the guests are most relaxed. This nightlife destination has it all - a bamboo room, a chill-out veranda, private room and lounge. A must visit dinner and night spot.

The Fastnet Bar - Attention all you serious beer drinkers and avid football fans - this Irish pub will be your second home during soccer season. Located on a Boulevard overlooking the marina, The Fastnet Bar features a wide variety of ales, lagers and beers. With its wooden interior, this place is the perfect pub to get cozy in the wintertime, to sip on your Baileys and coffee and to devour a traditional English bacon n' egg sandwich.

Shout out to Maria Luisa for her expertise!

With so much to do in Barcelona, it is hard to know where to start. On our list of things to do in Barcelona, we have included a few ideas.

Barcelona is famous for the fantastic architecture of Antonio Gaudi, whose buildings are all over the center of the city.  A walk along Passieg De Gracia is where you will find La Pedrera and Casa Batllo', two of Gaudi's most famous creations, so have your camera ready. Casa Batllo' looks like it has been made of skulls and bones.  The "skulls" are actually balconies and the "bones" are the supporting pillars.  Gaudi's most impressive creation, La Sagrada Familia, is still under construction and has been since 1882 (and no, that is not a typo!) This temple is not expected to be completed for between 30 and 80 years depending on the source of information.

Other examples of architectural brilliance are in the heart of the Gothic Quarter where you will see the Barcelona's famous Gothic Cathedral.

For a heavy dose of culture, there are plenty of museums in Barcelona.  The MACBA, or the museum of modern art, and the CCCB right next door are both worth a look.  They change their exhibits every month, so you will not get bored with these two places.  Their permanent Picasso and Dali displays are always popular choices. Right off of Placa Espanya, on Avienda Marques de Comillos is a place that is popular with locals, but largely ignorned by tourists.  The Caixa Forum has different art exhibitions every month.  Near the Caixa Forum is the MNAC, museum of Catalan Art.