Beget, Spain, is a tiny village set in the peaceful Catalan mountainside, boasting a snail’s-pace way of life. In this overconnected world, Beget’s isolation and solitude are something to envy. It’s nestled in the Pyrenees mountains in the Girona province, and its 30 stone homes surround an ancient 12th-century Romanesque church. On a normal day,…
Author: Justine Ancheta
California native, churro aficionado, and mom of 3, Justine Ancheta writes fervently about Barcelona and Spain. Since 2008, she's been eating burnt onions (calçots) and tripping on cobblestones in the Gothic Quarter. She shares tips on popular attractions, exposes offbeat non-touristy spots, and gives insight on exploring Barcelona with kids. Her next Catalan culture challenge: top level of a human castle (castellers).
Buyer’s Guide: Best Anti-Theft Travel Bags 2024
BUYER’S GUIDE: BEST ANTI-THEFT TRAVEL BAGS 2022 Compare the best travel purse for Europe or Asia, or wherever you’re going. No matter how prepared you think you are for traveling, it may be difficult to outsmart pickpockets. What’s an extra measure you can take to not get robbed? Buy one of the best anti-theft travel…
Living in Barcelona as an American
So…you’re wondering what it’s like to live in Barcelona if you’re from the US. Maybe you’re a college kid who’ll study abroad for a semester, a mom looking to relocate with her family, or a retiree looking to live the good life. I can answer to what it’s like living in Barcelona as an American.…
Pickpocket-Proof Travel Clothing with Hidden Pockets
When I first visited Rome, I was 14. My family had been warned about pickpockets. So my mom had a genius idea to keep her money safe. She sewed a huge pocket inside the front panel of her underwear to hide our money. And she didn’t get robbed! Fast forward to today. Now, they sell…
Barcelona Packing List: Simple Checklist of Essentials
Not sure what to pack for Barcelona? Hey…I’m Justine. I’ve been living in Barcelona since 2008. Here is a comprehensive yet simple list of essentials that you’ll need to bring to Barcelona. I give you tips on the weather so you know how to pack light and pack right for your trip. Read my ultimate…
Is Barcelona Safe for Tourists?
You may know about pickpocketing in Barcelona and also remember the pro-independence protests and past terrorist attacks. This may lead you to wonder if Barcelona is the dream destination people make it out to be. So IS Barcelona safe for tourists? As a Barcelona resident going on 15 years here, my opinion is – YES,…
Popular Spanish Clothing Brands to Upgrade your Spain Style
If you’re looking to add style and personality to your wardrobe, you will definitely find chic treasures in Spanish clothing brands. From well-known favorites like Zara and Mango to upscale brands like Adolfo Dominguez, you’ll get to know the famous Spanish clothing brands in this ultimate shopper’s guide. As a 15-year resident, I’ll tell you…
100+ Things to do in Barcelona with Kids
Finding things to do in Barcelona with kids is never a problem. My 3 kids and I are never bored in the city. You also don’t have to spend any money — the city’s an open-air museum in itself! In this guide, first-time visitors, repeat visitors, and expats will find a new activity for their toddlers…
Visiting the Theatre-Museum Dalí: Barcelona Day Trip
One of the most visited museums in Spain, the Teatro-Museu Dali is a bizarre, immersive journey through Salvador Dalí’s artistic and personal life. And “bizarre” barely describes it! When Dalí helped plan the museum in 1974, he wanted the spectator to experience surrealism through the visit. It is definitely surreal! It’s also magical, outrageous, and…
Spain Summer Fashion: Guide to Dressing for Sun and Style
Summer is literally and figuratively the most sizzling time to visit Spain – with maximum sunshine and a buttload of events. Whether you’re planning a beach vacation or exploring historical Toledo, you’ve got to dress appropriately for the Spanish summer heat to stay cool. Spanish summer fashion is all about staying stylish while being practical…
