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…
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).
Kid snacks you can buy in Barcelona supermarkets
Sometimes when you’re traveling with your kids, you want to feed them with snacks that are inexpensive, healthy-ish, and convenient to throw in your purse. Ya know, something to hold them over until their next meal. Or doesn’t cause a complete crumb explosion on a bus. Even Beyoncé brought snacks for Blue Ivy at the…
Greenery, Gravel, and Metal: Poblenou’s Modern Park
So what do you think of the phallic-looking Torre Agbar design? “Interesting and strange,” you say. Well if you like the tower’s quirky, modern design – by French architect Jean Nouvel – you might like his other work, the Parc del Centre de Poblenou. Like Barcelona in all its “design-y” glory, this park doesn’t fail to…
Weekend Break in Northeast Spain: Cap de Creus and Cadaques
They say that, to have better overall health and well-being, it’s more beneficial to take a short trip than a weeks-long trip. I’m so with this. A few weeks ago, my family drove up north to the Costa Brava. After this 3-day break, I came back feeling like a new woman! Cap de Creus: Mainland…
Barcelona itinerary: 5 days
If you’re coming to Barcelona for 5 days, consider yourself lucky for being able to stay so long. Sunny weather, world-class Catalan gastronomy, and elegant modernist architecture are just some of the exciting things to experience in this Mediterranean city. Barcelona has been my home since 2008, so I have a good idea of what’s…
Guide to Mount Tibidabo, Barcelona
Once upon a time, in a faraway land in Barcelona…there was a majestic palace that stood on a mountain. On top of the palace was a man. He stood tall – with his arms wide open. Nearby, you could hear squealing children romping about on merry-go-rounds. And see adults gazing off in the distance, looking…
Tipping in Spain: The Definitive Guide for Tourists
As an American who has lived in Spain for 15 years, I understand how tipping culture can be confusing for my compatriots when they come here. In Spain, tipping is not as common as it is in the US, but it is very much appreciated when provided. Who doesn’t want free money? Rest assured, here…
Beautiful Beaches in Spain to Put on Your Itinerary
Beautiful beaches in Spain to put on your itinerary The coast of Spain touches the Mediterranean Sea to the south and east and the rough Atlantic Ocean to the North and West. It also includes our exotic Canary Islands and Balearic Islands. From secluded coves to quiet fisherman’s villages to rugged Atlantic cliffs, Spain’s 5,000 kilometers…
Best Costa Brava Towns for a Road Trip
Just call it the “coast gone wild” or, in other words, the Costa Brava. While this northeastern region of Spain is famous for its rocky coast and long stretches of sand, it also has medieval villages, natural reserves, and fine art. I’ve taken several variations of a Costa Brava road trip with my family over…
Gifts for Barcelona lovers that you can order online
Maybe you’ve recently taken a trip to Barcelona. But you forgot to buy a few gifts for friends and family. Or maybe you had such a memorable time…and you’re pining to taste, feel, or see anything that has to do with Barcelona or Spain. Alas! I’ve created this gift guide for you to inspire your…