Barcelona has its share of cheeseball souvenir shops filled with Gaudí mosaic bulls. But it also has hushed boutiques, generations-old specialty shops, and one-stop-shop department stores overflowing with unique Barcelona foods and objects of curiosity and beauty that you won’t find outside of Spain, and sometimes Barcelona. Let me share some of the best souvenirs…
Category: Travel Tips
Travel tips in Barcelona.
Barcelona Group Tickets For Museums and Tours
If you’re traveling with a large group, it can be complicated to reserve your visits for Barcelona museums, attractions and tours. Not anymore! I’ve partnered with Group Sightseeing so that you can book tickets for your group for more than 9 people. Just click on the link and leave your information with a form. Someone…
Avoid the Crowds in Barcelona
It’s not uncommon for people who hate Barcelona to put this on their “Why I Hate Barcelona” list: THE CROWDS. Sometimes, I’m with them. In fact, I’m sure a lot of people are with them, even a Barcelona tourist-turned-resident like me. While I often feel energized by the creativity and vibrant allure of the Catalan…
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,…
How to Eat and Drink like a Spaniard
When I’m walking down the restaurant-filled Rambla Catalunya and just casually looking at the outdoor tables, it’s fairly obvious who the tourists are. It’s not necessarily because of their large cameras or white sneakers. It’s mainly because it’s 5:00pm on a cool autumn day, and there’s a large pitcher of ice-filled sangría on the table.…
What to pack for Barcelona: babies and toddlers
Are you traveling to Barcelona with a toddler or baby? I’m sure you’re excited to come to this marvelous city, but you have doubts about what you’ll need. Will my stroller fit in on the Barcelona streets? Do restaurants have highchairs? Relax. I’ve raised three kids in Barcelona, and we’ve traveled overseas over 10 times.…
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…
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…
Barcelona tips and tricks for visitors 2025
I’ve been a Barcelona resident for almost 15 years, and oftentimes, I still feel like a tourist. This happens usually when I’m wandering with the crowds in Gothic Quarter or Born, or passing through the raucous-y Plaça Catalunya. I still visit tourist sites from time to time (yes, even the Sagrada Familia!). For that reason,…
What Not to Wear in Spain: Don’t look like a tourist
If you’re visiting this beautiful Mediterranean country, you don’t want to look like a tourist. For one thing, dressing like a tourist could make you a target for pickpockets. So how do people dress in Spain? It’s easy to fit in and dress like a local in Spain if you follow these “dont’s”. As a…