“¿Hola, Quetal?” Said the sun’s wave of energy as soon as the cabin door opened. The rich heat was bombarding as if you were just hit with four giant exercise balls at the same time. It was that heart of summer feeling where you’re baking and crisping like a batch of chocolate chip cookies you left in the oven far too long. No matter. It’s all part of the experience right? And at least you finally got a chance to stretch your legs after a few hours in a middle seat.
Ahh finally! I had arrived in a vibrant, colorful city, whose people were just as diverse as their world renowned tapas; and who doesn’t love a good tapas selection? Flavor combinations stemming from the trendy coastline to traditional chorizo, and speaking of traditional, don’t forget about the OG Paella that’s probably on that menu too.
Forget the vinyl-like tingling sensation provided by central air, Barcelona’s vibe was much stronger than just a breeze on the “cool” scale. Swirl on your sunscreen (something I mistakenly didn’t ponder to bring), and let’s take a brisk walk through the city. We have to start early, but we’ll stop for a gourmet breakfast and do a little shopping of course. We’ll even fly by the beach for a little Sangria after viewing vintage art, and admiring a 100+ year old construction wonder. Can you feel the different vibes crashing in from all sides? ¡Well then Vamoooooos! Let’s explore.
Thank God, I purchased a new pair of shorts. I am not a big shorts guy, but was told they are a best in the Barcelona heat. Swim shorts will even pass as an acceptable option for adventures around town, so make sure you purchase a stylish yet respectable pair. You can enhance their vibe with the complementing polo or t-shirt of your choice. Check out our Seaside Summer Capsule to explore more coastal living pieces and inspiration.
Some helpful advice from a friend who studied in the city led me to one of the best and most unique breakfasts I’d had in a long time.
Brunch and Cake… you can taste the name.
When a Yelp reviews constantly state “it’s by far the best breakfast/brunch/lunch/snack…” place in the city, and you follow that up with your former resident friend’s text exclaiming it’s “Suuuuuuuper good,” you know you’re in for something special.
Here’s the deal. Are you a fan of eggs benedict? Good, now, inject it with steroids… The Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa heated home run race of ‘98 kind; where the giant waffle substituting for the English muffin resembles Sammy’s before complexion, and the flavorful and unexpected sauce combinations combine to resemble the after.
Thank the Lord I didn’t spill it on my shorts. They had enough separation already from the subtle frey at the hem. Small details like frey can take a classic, seemingly ordinary article of clothing, and flavor it with the edge it needs to provide you with the separation style you want.
ATTENTION! Keep water handy. You won’t be able to explore without it. Shopping in Barcelona is easy, and you know how to do it already. Ask around and explore until you locate an area that’s absolutely overridden with shops big and small. Like cookies and cream ice cream with a 65/35 relationship of cookies to ice cream. You can find these cookie-full areas around Las Ramblas, Placa Catalunya, and Passeig de gracia. Side streets also contain sprinkles of boutiques and some local brands, and it’s highly encouraged to get lost and enjoy the experience.
Ladies first. I noticed a few shops and brands scattered around that city that presented vibes I just had to share with you! The favorite find of the trip was Anine Bing, a hip brand out of Los Angeles that displays the marriage of “Scandinavian heritage and American spirit.” Their mission is to “provide women with effortless pieces for the perfect modern uniform.” They only have a few stores worldwide, but if you spot one, even your significant other shouldn’t mind stopping in to admire their soft yet edgy pieces.
Another brand you may enjoy is the Spanish born Uterqüe. It boasts high quality pieces, and a more enjoyable shopping experience than Zara.
The opportunity to find and sport pieces from scarce boutiques truly makes your style one of a kind. Below you’ll discover “The Barcelona Edit,” a small capsule put together to provide you with some articles that portray the essence and spirit of Barcelona.
The Barcelona Edit
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Mansur Gavriel
Vegetable Tanned Mini Bucket Bag in Brandy/Avion -
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Solid & Striped
The Anne-Marie Swimsuit in Lipstick Cream Pinstripe
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Baum Und Pferdgarten
Mille Smocked Blouse -
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Danse Lente
Margot Square Bag in Sunset
Was$560/ NOW $167.99 -
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Paloma Wool
Olimpia Top in Orange
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Rachel Comey
Member Knit Polo in Turmeric
Men, the shopping principles apply to you as well. Search for the unique boutiques sprinkled throughout the streets to sweeten your shopping experience. One of our favorites we stumbled upon was Señor. They featured everything from Espadrilles and Monk straps to custom suiting options designed with your personal flair. Unfortunately guys, you’ll need to visit a store to get the juicy details, but you can check out their website here, and shop some similar pieces below.
Shop Similar Styles
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Mr P
Light-Blue Cotton And Linen-Blend Chambray Blazer
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Castañer
Nacho Collapsible-Heel Suede Loafer Espadrilles -
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Cole Haan
Williams 2.0 Grand Monk Strap Loafer
Speaking of the word “señor,” did you know they speak another language here? Of course you’ll hear Spanish, but you’ll also hear Catalan. Since Barcelona is in the region of Catalonia it provides you with the experience of getting to hear a different dialect. Languages and dialects from different regions in Europe have proven to be fascinating. They are so special to each region, and always make the adventure more special.
Have a drink of water, we still have a few other places to go. The coast is drawing near, and diving in will be just as refreshing as gulping down your canteen to the last drop.
Before we complete our quest to the water let’s take in a little more culture. The paintings and sculptures spread throughout the city give it plenty of character; so much character that one piece is still yet to be finished (we will get there soon). Gaudi and Picasso of course are popular names, but the charm of Gothic Quarter corridors and the history behind the old town architecture and art provide a nice tour and wandering excursion before ultimately deciding to catch some waves.
*Side Journey… In her Netflix Special, NANETTE, Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby does an excellent job of examining Picasso and the man he was, or should I say wasn’t, behind the artist, and questions why he is so revered. It’s very intense and a very powerful show; I highly recommend it.
Click Here to Start Watching NANETTE
Have you ever walked on hot coals before? Neither had I until I slipped my beach shoes off to walk in the sand. The beaches all have their separate vibes, and the more north you go, the less touristy it is. Just make sure to leave your sandals on until you get to your destination and settle on a spot in the sand.
While on your way to the beach, and even at the beach, you will notice a plethora of entrepreneurs from all over the globe, selling small trinkets, souvenirs, and way too many sneakers. I settled on purchasing a blanket after realizing my towel wasn’t going to be big enough to keep all my body parts off of the scalding sand.
It isn’t uncommon to see nude bodies, so be prepared and act accordingly; and don’t forget, each beach has its own vibe, so it doesn’t hurt to do a little coastline research before trekking out. You may want to contemplate taking the bus or the metro if need be. I say this because I settled down in Bogota, which happened to be a little further walk than I anticipated. My lack of sunscreen reminded me of that in the coming days.
Remember earlier I mentioned the character of the city, specifically in the art and design, and how one of it’s most specific pieces was still unfinished? Yes, the La Sagrada Familia was certainly breathtaking in all its individuality and splendor. You haven’t ever seen anything quite like it, and you’re gonna like the way it looks… I guarantee it.
Aesthetics aside, the construction of the structure parallels with living our lives by showing us what great works can be accomplished when we set our goals and continue to refine our plans to achieve them year after year. Enjoy life, think big, and keep your eyes on your grand plan, your personal La Sagrada Familia. Sometimes, you don’t know exactly how you’re going to get there, but have grandiose thoughts, continue to move higher and farther than you think you can, challenge yourself and enjoy life every step of the way. Your positive vibes will motivate and inspire others, and you’ll be a joy to be around at every step along your path. Arriving at your desired destination will feel far more spectacular than you ever imagined.
Wow I’m peeling! You should have let me borrow some of your sunscreen. Oh well, the sunburn was an earned “souvenir,” well deserved, and a testament to adventure… also climate change. What an experience to cherish and let nibble at your ever expanding views and cultural understanding. Learn, grow, stay creative, ambitious and adventurous… And take those cookies out of the oven finally. Aloe Vera can soothe a burned back, but can’t resurrect a burnt cookie. Adios!
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