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…
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).
Solar Eclipse Spain 2026: How to Prepare for your Total Eclipse Trip
If you’re planning to come to Spain for the total eclipse in 2026, it’s time to start preparing! I’m already here in Spain, and it won’t be hitting this region apparently. If you want to see where it will hit, it will hit the middle of section of Spain, diagonally and part of the islands. …
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…
Fideuà vs. Paella: The Spanish Dish Showdown
Some rivalries in Spain are hard to kill. Real Madrid vs. FC Barcelona. PP versus PSOE versus…Podemos? And in Catalonia, another harsh battle is being fought: the fideuà versus the paella. Anyone familiar with Spanish food knows about paella, a one-pot rice dish stuffed with goodies like mussels, shrimp, chorizo, rabbit, peas, or other ingredients. It belongs…
Best Spain Souvenirs and Gifts
So maybe you’re coming to Spain, and you need cool ideas for gifts. During the times that I traveled back and forth to Spain to visit my boyfriend (now husband), my friends and family would always request traditional, unique souvenirs. Once, I got suckered into bringing home a bottle of Spanish wine from a co-worker…
Montserrat: A Must-See Trip Outside Barcelona
Just 30 minutes outside of Barcelona by car, Montserrat is a tranquil, low-key getaway for locals, tourists, pilgrims, and nature lovers. Known as the heart of the Catalan people, the craggy mountain range not only offers an incredible landscape outside Barcelona, but it’s also a peaceful place for reflection and refuge. In IMHO, it’s the…