Frederic Marès Museum Right behind the Barcelona Cathedral is the Museu Frederic Marès, one of the most significant sculpture museums in Spain. It’s also a fascinating museum of collections of everyday objects and a treasure trove of Spain’s past. The ground floor features a magnificent collection of Christian sculptures and relics from the Romanesque, Gothic,…
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).
Christmas Market at the Sagrada Familia
Hit up the Christmas market at the Sagrada Familia if you want to enjoy the ambiance of aromatic Christmas trees, Nativity scene figurines, authentic local gifts, and a pleasing view of the Sagrada Familia. I make sure to visit the holiday market to jumpstart the Christmas-y vibe every Nadal (Christmas in Catalan). Read on to see what…
Ultimate Barcelona Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Your Visit
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…
A Spanish Lesson: Body, Panty, Leotardo, and More
When I was pregnant, I started to make a list of newborn clothes that I’d need before my baby girl’s arrival. My mother-in-law (who’s Spanish) asked me if my daughter had enough bodys. Well course she’d have a body. A cute little baby body. I’m sure she didn’t mean to say cuerpo, the Spanish word for “body”. After some…
Visiting Barcelona in September 2024
September is a fantastic time to visit Barcelona. If you love sunshine and don’t love crowds, this is a great time to take advantage of the city. As students get back to school, the crowds thin out a little. You can enjoy the Barcelona beaches in September, try the world-renowned Mediterranean food, and of course…
Ultimate Spain Packing List: Essentials for Travelers
Need to know what to pack for Spain? I got you! As both an American and Spanish resident for over 15 years, I’m giving you a no-fluff list of things to bring. Make it make sense for your travel style! This minimalist, ultimate Spain packing list is for you – whether you’re going to the…
American Goods I Bring Back to Spain (and Foods I Make)
A few months ago, I sat down with my family to chow down on our routine weekend breakfast — homemade pancakes. I tipped over my bottle of American-imported maple syrup only to see a few piddly drops coming through. Gah. Unless I want to fork out 25 euros at my specialty health food shop, I’m just not…
Visiting Barcelona in October 2024: A Complete Guide
Visiting Barcelona in October is a good idea. It’s still warm towards the beginning of the month, and the crowds are considerably less than in September. The fall season is in effect! As a Barcelona resident, I enjoy the outdoor picnics or a stroll at a Barcelona beach during this fall month. (It’s also the…
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…
What to wear in Barcelona in the spring
You’ve bought your plane ticket, and you’re coming to Barcelona in the spring. Time to pack your strappy dresses and flip-flops! Or not? Planning your outfits for Barcelona can be tricky because the weather is less predictable than in summer or winter. This practical, stylish guide will help you get your suitcases ready for March,…