Colon Hotel in front of Barcelona Cathedral

To finish this hotel series for now, I leave you with a view of Colon Hotel right in front of Barcelona Cathedral in Barri Gotic. I know the picture is no big deal but if you look it up on a Barcelona map you'll find out how well located this renown hotel is. With time Barcelona Photoblog pretends to be a little helpful guide to visitors so the more information the better, specially finding accommodation in town. I have often wondered why so many travel guides offer those tiny pictures that may ruin your logical enthusiasm prior to the discovery of a new city. They are like a very small window, you want to look inside and capture as many details as possible, full of illusion as you are, and there's no way to stick your head inside to take a look around. So whenever possible I will try to show you some hotels, museums, etc that may not be of photographic interest but will surely let you lean on the window and take a glimpse at Barcelona.

Updated 07/2023: 

Hotel Colón: Exquisite Accommodation in the Heart of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter

But now let us go through the imaginary window and  demonstrate why it is a great option when it comes to finding accommodation in our city:

Nestled in the heart of Barcelona's historic Gothic Quarter, Hotel Colón stands as an exceptional choice for the discerning traveler seeking unrivaled comfort and convenience. With its proximity to the iconic Barcelona Cathedral, this splendid hotel offers an unforgettable experience, refined accommodations, and unique offerings that transport guests to the heart of Barcelona's rich cultural tapestry.

Unparalleled Location near Barcelona Cathedral:

Hotel Colón boasts an enviable address, perfectly situated just steps away from the revered Barcelona Cathedral. This privileged location allows guests to immerse themselves in the architectural wonders and storied history of the Gothic Quarter. Meandering through its labyrinthine streets, visitors will encounter hidden gems, picturesque plazas, and charming boutiques that paint a vivid portrait of Barcelona's exceptional past.

Elegance and Comfort Redefined:

Step into Hotel Colón and be transported to a world of refined elegance and supreme comfort. Each meticulously designed room and suite reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary sophistication and local charm. The hotel offers an array of thoughtfully curated accommodations, ranging from cozy single rooms to spacious suites, ensuring every guest finds their ideal sanctuary amidst the bustling city.

Impeccable Amenities and Exquisite Dining:

Hotel Colón's commitment to providing an unforgettable stay is exemplified by its impeccable amenities and attentive services. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona's majestic skyline and the resplendent Barcelona Cathedral from the hotel's enchanting rooftop terrace. This idyllic space offers the perfect retreat to unwind and savor delectable culinary creations crafted with precision and passion. Indulge in the flavors of traditional Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine, elevating your gastronomic journey to new heights.

Beyond the Hotel's Thresholds:

While Hotel Colón delights guests with its opulent offerings, Barcelona beckons with its myriad attractions, awaiting exploration beyond the hotel's thresholds. Just a stone's throw away, the magnificent Barcelona Cathedral enthralls visitors with its Gothic grandeur, unveiling centuries of history through its intricate architecture and soaring spires. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene, from marveling at the visionary works of Antoni Gaudí to discovering the Roman and medieval treasures scattered inside the perimeter of the old city walls and of course, do revel in the captivating ambiance of tapas bars, seafood restaurants, and bustling local markets.

Hotel Colón stands as a testament to refined hospitality, embracing Barcelona's rich history and remarkable culture. Its exceptional location near the Barcelona Cathedral provides a gateway to the city's architectural marvels and hidden treasures. Through its exquisite accommodations, impeccable amenities Hotel Colón is the perfect ambassador of Barcelona.

Why not sharing your impressions with Barcelona Photoblog while you enjoy the impressive views of the Cathedral from Hotel Colon then? 

Quick Tips for Choosing a Hotel in Barcelona

Jorge Franganillo

Whenever you book a trip, one of the most important decisions to make is where to stay. Even if you're hoping to spend your time out and about, a good night's sleep is essential. You don't want to be kept awake by partying downstairs, next door or outside. And you certainly don't want to spend your time in Barcelona staying in a dirty or unsafe room. Whether you go for cheap and cheerful, or you're looking for the ultimate luxury, choosing the right hotel could make or break your vacation. Try using the tips below to pick the right place for you and have an enjoyable time in Barcelona.

Set Your Budget

The first thing you should decide is how much money you want to spend on your hotel. If money is no object, you can look at four and five-star hotels that have everything you could need. But if you need to watch your wallet, it's better to set yourself a budget. There are different levels of accommodation you could choose from, from hostels or pensions to budget and luxury hotels. If you want to stick to somewhere in the middle, look at three-star hotels.

Choose Your Requirements

You need to think about what you're looking for in a hotel. Barcelona has a lot to offer in terms of accommodation, so narrowing down your wishes will help. Perhaps you have to have a pool, or you want somewhere with a bar. Are you looking for a hotel in a certain location or one with a gym? Remember that the price will be influenced by the location and facilities. So don't expect to find everything you could ever need at a budget hotel.

Use Booking Sites

The easiest way to find a Barcelona hotel that's perfect for you is to use booking sites. Visit Venere or a similar site and browse through the many hotels available. You'll be able to look at photos and read information about each hotel. Then you can book your stay without having to leave the site. Most sites also have ratings and reviews too, so you can see what other guests thought.

Check the Photos

Having a look at a hotel's photos is always a good idea. If you love photography, it's an even better idea. You could find a hotel that's perfect for taking a few shots. If you can, try to find photos taken by guests too. Doing so will give you a more accurate picture of the state of the hotel, and not just a carefully-controlled professional image.

Read Reviews

It may seem obvious, but reading hotel reviews is essential. You don't want to check into an awful establishment, only to find it could have been avoided if you had read the reviews. However, they're less important for more expensive hotels. And if you want to stay closer to the center of Barcelona, you probably won't find anywhere horrible.

There are lots of hotels to choose from in Barcelona, and some of them are beautiful buildings. Just take your time choosing one to make sure you don't get duped.

How to Make the Most of Your First Trip to Barcelona in 2023

Barcelona is a city that captivates visitors from around the globe with its blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some essential travel tips to make the most of your first trip to Barcelona:

Plan your itinerary wisely. Barcelona offers a wealth of attractions and activities, so it's important to plan your itinerary wisely. Start by outlining a list of the things you most want to see and do. Be sure to include iconic sites such as the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and the Sagrada Familia. You can find more information about these attractions in my blog posts about the Gothic Quarter, about Las Ramblas, and about the Sagrada Familia.

Secure accommodation in advance. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. This will ensure you have a comfortable place to stay and give you more options to choose from.

Obtain a Barcelona Card. The Barcelona Card is a great way to save money on transportation, attractions, and tours. It can be purchased for one, two, or three days, and it gives you free entry to many of the city's most popular attractions, as well as discounts on public transportation and tours.

Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases. While many locals in Barcelona speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be immensely helpful. Polite greetings, simple directions, and ordering food are a few key phrases that can enhance your interactions with locals and create a more immersive experience. Here is a list of basic words and phrases in Spanish:

Certainly! Here are some useful Spanish words and phrases that can enhance your experience during your first visit to Barcelona:

1. Greetings:

• - Hello: Hola
• - Good morning: Buenos días
• - Good afternoon/evening: Buenas tardes
• - Goodnight: Buenas noches
• - Goodbye: Adiós

2. Polite Expressions:

• - Please: Por favor
• - Thank you: Gracias
• - You're welcome: De nada
• - Excuse me: Perdón/Disculpe
• - I'm sorry: Lo siento

3. Basic Conversational Phrases:

• - Yes: Sí
• - No: No
• - I don't understand: No entiendo
• - Could you please repeat that?: ¿Podría repetir eso, por favor?
• - Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?

4. Asking for Directions:

• - Where is...?: ¿Dónde está...?
• - How can I get to...?: ¿Cómo puedo llegar a...?
• - Is it far?: ¿Está lejos?
• - Left: Izquierda
• - Right: Derecha
• - Straight ahead: Todo recto

5. Ordering Food and Drinks:

• - I would like...: Me gustaría...
• - What do you recommend?: ¿Qué me recomienda?
• - Can I have the bill, please?: ¿Me puede traer la cuenta, por favor?
• - A table for two, please: Una mesa para dos, por favor
• - Cheers!: ¡Salud!

6. Shopping:

• - How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
• - Can I try it on?: ¿Puedo probármelo?
• - I'm just browsing: Solo estoy mirando
• - Do you have this in a different color/size?: ¿Tiene esto en otro color/talla?
• - Can I pay with a credit card?: ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?

7. Emergencies:

• - Help!: ¡Ayuda!
• - I need a doctor: Necesito un médico
• - Where is the nearest hospital?: ¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?
• - I lost my passport: Perdí mi pasaporte
• - I've been robbed: Me han robado

Remember, even if you're not fluent in Spanish, locals appreciate the effort to communicate in their language. These basic phrases will help you navigate common situations and interact with locals more comfortably during your visit to Barcelona. If you manage to learn them in Catalan it would be great!

Prepare for crowds. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so certain areas like the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas can become crowded. Be prepared for bustling streets and plan accordingly. Exploring early in the morning or during weekdays might offer a more tranquil experience.

Utilize public transportation. Barcelona boasts an efficient public transportation system, consisting of metro lines, buses, and trams. Purchase a T-10 ticket (no need to buy this one for each of you), which allows ten trips on various modes of transportation, or opt for a travel card that provides unlimited travel for a specific duration. Navigating the city becomes convenient, cost-effective, and time-saving with these options.

Wander on foot. While public transportation is excellent, don't forget to explore Barcelona's streets on foot. Meander through the narrow alleys, soak in the city's atmosphere, and stumble upon hidden gems tucked away from the main tourist routes. Walking enables you to discover charming neighborhoods and stumble upon quaint cafes or boutique shops. Tourist exploration has skyrocketed lately so finding new routes is not that frequent anymore. Don't stop trying though there are still unconquered treasures out there with a good pirate map.

Marvel at Gaudí's architectural wonders. Antoni Gaudí's architectural masterpieces are an integral part of Barcelona's identity. No visit to the city is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the whimsical Park Güell, and the extraordinary Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make Gaudí's works truly unique. But remember our architecture expands way beyond the master's legacy. Try other famous architects like Domenech i Montaner or check my list of 10 best modernist architectural buildings in Barcelona

Indulge in beach time. Barcelona's beautiful coastline beckons visitors to relax and unwind. Set aside time to enjoy the city's sandy beaches, with Barceloneta Beach being the most renowned. Whether it's sunbathing, strolling along the promenade, or engaging in water sports, the Mediterranean Sea provides a refreshing escape. 

Experience the vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets, Barcelona's nightlife comes alive. From cozy bars to pulsating nightclubs, the city offers a diverse range of options for nocturnal adventures. Explore the lively neighborhoods of El Raval, Gràcia, or the trendy district of El Born (not just at night), where you can savor tapas, sip on refreshing cocktails, and dance the night away.

Barcelona is a city that encapsulates the essence of a rich culture and a captivating history, besides our architectural wonders. By following these travel tips, you can ensure a memorable experience during your first visit. Embrace the energy of the city, explore its hidden corners, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Catalan charm that makes Barcelona an unparalleled destination.

Renting an Apartment in Barcelona

Post courtesy of Apartment Barcelona

Why choose an apartment?

With more space and homely touches, along with the possibility of saving some pennies and sleeping larger groups together under one roof, more and more visitors are choosing holiday apartment rentals in Barcelona rather than hotel stays. In terms of the apartments available in and around the city, the variety of accommodation is vast and there is indeed something to suit all tastes.

Where to stay?
 

Barcelona boasts an amazing choice of different neighbourhoods, each with its very own personality, allowing you to really make the most of your visit to the city and find exactly what you need. From apartments overlooking the sandy beaches and those found at the heart of lively nightlife to those with a more local feel surrounded quirky cafés or chic stores, you’re sure to find the ideal area for you.

If what you enjoy most is basking in the Mediterranean sun, then Barceloneta is the perfect choice for you. The vibrant seafront, lined with sandy beach bars, local hangouts and amazing seafood restaurants along with the area’s proximity to the city centre make this an ideal spot for those wanting to combine the metropolitan with the surf.

Dating back to medieval times, the beautiful, maze-like neighbourhood of El Born is one of Barcelona’s oldest areas and today wows visitors with its wonderful monuments, fashionable boutiques, and enticing bars and restaurants. The area is home to some of the city’s most best loved attractions including the Picasso Museum, Santa María del Mar basilica and Santa Caterina Market.

Crazy about Gaudí? Love classic architecture? If so, then Eixample is the ideal place for you. The area is home to some of the most renowned architectural works in Europe including the amazing Casa Batlló, weird and wonderful La Pedrera and the towering Sagrada Familia. Eixample boasts endless and glamorous turn of the century buildings which today house swanky stores and up-market restaurants.

At the top end of Eixample lies the cute, quaint area known as Gràcia. Originally a separate village from Barcelona, it has a distinctive Catalan atmosphere, and is today filled with charming restaurants, arty cafeterias, and locally-owned boutiques. With plenty of local students and young residents, this area comes alive at night, with a trendy laid-back bar scene.

For a true taste of Barcelona’s dramatic past, you’ll need the incredible Gothic area. Nestled between El Raval and El Born, the neighbourhood offers guests a first-hand experience of the rich and fascinating history of this buzzing city. Characterised by small, winding alleyways and beautiful medieval architecture, renting an apartment in the Gothic Quarter will surely transport you back in time. The neighbourhood is home to plenty of tourist attractions including the Barcelona Cathedral, Plaça Reial and the government buildings of Catalonia in Plaça de Sant Jaume.

Apartments in Barcelona come in endless shapes and sizes all across the city and are able to cater to all needs. So whether you’re looking for a child-friendly apartment with a pool, a spacious six bedroom rental for a large group, or a super-stylish studio for one, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for you.

Apartment Barcelona

Apartment Barcelona is an online apartment agency with more than 1000 apartments to rent in Barcelona for both short and long-term stays, as well as apartments for sale. The Tripadvisor-recommended agency offers a large variety of rentals, from luxury apartments to studios, and from beach apartments to Ramblas apartments. For more information, visit www.apartmentbarcelona.com

Perfect Holidays on Costa Brava? Come to Blanes!

If you are planning your vacation on Costa Brava, the town of Blanes should be on your list not just because it has a long and wide beach from where sightseeing boats like this depart or because you can find budget accommodation in all inclusive hotels or in a nice Catalan villa, but also due to the fact that the door to Costa Brava, as it is known Blanes, has much more to offer than you could think of:

First of all, its Mediterranean history, a history that tells us of Iberian settlements upon whose ruins Romans built an oppidum, "an ancient Roman provincial town lacking self-government, especially one having walls and fortifications and serving as a provincial strong point" (Merriam - Webster), which they called Blanda or Blandae after a city by the same name in Lucania, a region from ancient Italy. Remnants of the Roman Blanda were found during the els Pedrets excavations in the 70s and also at the parish church, at Racó d’en Portes and near Sant Francesc hermitage. The reason for these strongholds to exist were basically for protection of the coastal towns from pirates or from land incursions.

Of course history extends further, a history of landlords, of castles, of Genoese attacks, of Catalan splendor, of invasions, of migrations to America (Havana, Montevideo and Buenos Aires), but I will not digress.

Based upon such rich past, there grew a fishermen town with an intense activity that was also centered in the industry of textile and cork. Shipyards building fishing boats, frigates and brigantines were also part of the city's main industry in previous centuries. As you can guess, much of those early trades are now secondary to tourism although fishing is still around. Worth mentioning is the local fishing fleet that every morning sails the Mediterranean to bring their fresh captures to be auctioned and sold at nine market stalls from where they go straight to meet the touristic demand.

Blanes together with Lloret de Mar, Malgrat de Mar, Tordera and Palafolls municipalities is part of what is known as the Catalan void, a territory between Maresme and La Selva comarques. This area experienced an important demographic and town planning growth during the XX century. Important migrations from the South of Spain took place then, first during the 20s after the opening of the SAFA artificial fiber factory (1923) and later from 1955 to 1970, coinciding with mass tourism boom. This considerable flux of migrants gave Blanes its unique trait, a melting pot of cultures, from where new Catalans were born.

But why is Blanes good for holidays?

A good reason to visit could be the local cuisine. Take for example this incredible paella I had at Celler Sant Antoni  restaurant very conveniently located near the beach and the marina. I'd also recommend laBalma restaurant or the terrace of Es Blanc.

Another reason may be because accommodation is cheaper than in other Costa Brava towns like Cadaques or Begur for example. Vacation rentals in Blanes might as well be another affordable option for you. From there you could move along the coast easily visiting nearby towns.

Besides eating and sleeping of course, there is always time to walk along carrer Ample to find the beautiful Gothic fountain from 1438, look for Casa Saladrigas by a disciple of Gaudi, visit Marimurtra, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the Mediterranean, organize a wildlife tour to the Tordera delta, dive in Blanes waters, escalate to the 1582 convent on top of the cliffs overlooking the port or the castle of Sant Joan (better to go by car) and last but not least buy vegs and fresh fruit at the daily market at Passeig de Dintre.

There are plenty of other things to do in Blanes, like going hiking along Cami de Ronda till Cala Bona the favorite beach of locals or getting lost in the intense nightlife of the little cousin, Lloret de Mar.

The list might go on endlessly. I hope that after you enjoy your Costa Brava holidays you come up here and share some more hints with our community.

Avenida Palace Hotel, Gran Via, Barcelona

Avenida Palace should be among the first options on your list if you are looking for a strategically located downtown hotel in Barcelona.

Just a few steps away from Passeig de Gracia, one of the most famous streets of Barcelona and Spain, Hotel Avenida Palace is an accommodation as convenient as those located near to New York's Fifth Avenue for example although Passeig de Gracia is not only the street of expensive shops but also of the most remarkable modernist houses that renown Catalan architects ever built, like Casa Mila aka La Pedrera, Casa Batllo both by Gaudi or Casa Lleo i Morera, Casa Amatller and Casa Rocamora.

But not only shops and architecture festoon the surroundings of the prestigious Avenida Palace Hotel, there is also the very center of the downtown area, Plaça Catalunya or Catalonia Square, at a 100 meters walking down in Las Ramblas direction. That's the ridiculous distance that separates you from the old part of town or casc antic. Casc Antic was that part of the city that used to be within the walls.

151 refurbished rooms, including the Sagrada Familia suite with a spectacular 10 meter square terrace or the Beatles suite where the Liverpool band stayed in 1965 make part of the perfect accommodation this great art deco style hotel has to give you.

Rooms with carpeted and parquet floors are comfortable, spacious and well distributed. There is air conditioning, Satellite TV, safe, mini-bar, soundproofed walls, en-suite bathrooms and wifi.

One of the best spots in the hotel is the rooftop bar with pool that overlooks Gran Via Street and from where you can see the unique Sagrada Familia cathedral by Gaudi.

Restaurant Beluga also in the venue might be a good option for a decent brunch although there are much better places in the vicinity. Maybe this would be one of the few things to be improved in the excellent services of Hotel Avenida Palace in my opinion.

By the way, a little bit of history for Avenida Palace's visitors-to-be:

Back in 1952, one of those great events that have skyrocketed hotel reservations in Barcelona, in this case the 35th International Eucharistic Congress, accelerated the inauguration of Avenida Palace hotel, once the legendary chocolate shop, tea salon and restaurant Casa Llibre, owned by Guillermo Llibre and designed by prestigious modernist architect Enric Sagnier in 1924. Only twelve days before the congress the hotel was opened in a rush to welcome important personalities of the ecclesiastic world. All in all, there were 300.000 visits to Barcelona city in less than a week. Another interesting fact is that hotel founder, Joan Gaspart Bonet was the grandfather of Catalan entrepreneur Joan Gaspart Solves. Joan Gaspart the grandson, is not only known for being the general manager of HUSA hotel group but for his successful 22 years as vice president of FC Barcelona and his not so good 3 years of presidency.

Here is an old image for you to compare the old building with nowadays' 4 Star Hotel Avenida Palace located at 605 - 607 Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, Barcelona.

Hotel Arts: Accommodation in Barcelona

Today I show you Hotel Arts. Built for the Olympics, it is a predominant building in the skyline of Barcelona and the beach area. A combination of luxury, modern design, and functionality gives this five star hotel a high rank in top lists all over the world. Recently you could see Harrison Ford or Mourinyo staying there. It was the place where Ronaldiño lodged when he came to Barcelona. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Arts Barcelona was designed by the notable architecture firm Skidmore Owings and Merrill and it has 44 floors.

General Statistics for Barcelona Tourism year 2005

In 2005 there were 10.931.637 hotel stays, more than 49.235 hotel rooms and 5.052.766 visitors according to official figures.

See Hotel Arts Picture on a Google Earth Map

Condes de Barcelona Hotel at Passeig de Gracia 73

Barcelona hotels are really scarce in Barcelona Photoblog, simply because it is difficult for me to take good pictures of some buildings that are normally boring, at least from the outside. Nevertheless, considering that spring and Easter holidays are around the corner I have decided to show some well known hotels that might give visitors a hint or at least serve as an appetizer before booking a room in our city. The fact that I pick up these hotels does not mean I emphasize on any of them. They all caught my attention in a certain way and are 4 star hotels after all so they might be good choices for you when searching for accommodation in our city. In any case I will insert a link to their site if available.

Here goes the first one: Condes de Barcelona Hotel. What is special about this hotel? The location of course, Passeig de Gracia 73-75. It is a beautiful modernist building facing La Pedrera or Casa Mila by Gaudi. The rest you can read by yourselves on their site above. Considering the area I am sure the price must be something to take into account but hey, who knows?.

5 Secret Hideaway Places in Barcelona, Spain

As one of the most visited cities in Spain, Barcelona is a cultural wonderland for both tourists and residents. Though Barcelona is known for its famous attractions, such as the Barcelona Aquarium and the Picasso Museum, this lively city also has its hidden gems. Discover what Barcelona's secret places are in this mini travel guide, and include them in your travel plans to Barcelona.

1. Carmel bunkers 

The Carmel Bunkers are a hidden landmark in the hilly El Carmel neighborhood of Barcelona. These anti-aircraft concrete bunkers were built in the late 1930s during the Spanish Civil War to help defend the city against air raids.

Over 180 bunkers were strategically constructed on Turó de la Rovira hill and other high points around El Carmel. The bunkers housed machine guns and artillery used by the Republican army. Though never used for their intended purpose, the bunkers stand today as haunting reminders of Barcelona's war-torn past. Many are now covered in graffiti art, and the bunkers have become popular spots to take in panoramic views of the city skyline.

2. El Rei de la Magia 

El Rei de la Magia, which translates to King of Magic, isn't your ordinary museum. In most museums, you'll find timeless art masterpieces, important historical documents or famous sculptures. But in the El Rei de la Magia museum, you'll discover magic. From classic tricks to a magic shop, El Rei de la Magia is a magical world for families to enjoy.

3. Sala Montjuic 

Are you planning a summer trip to Barcelona? Make sure to visit the open-air cinema in Barcelona: Sala Montjuic. Located between the walls of the Montjuic Castle, Sala Montjuic is a great place to enjoy a picnic with your family and friends. Also, with the Montjuic Castle right next to the open-air cinema, you can go on a guided tour of this historical monument; this location is a two-in-one attraction.

4. Parc del Laberint d'Horta 

If you're looking for a way to enjoy a relaxing setting and stay active at the same time, the Parc del Laberint d'Horta -- also known as Horta's Labyrinth Park -- is a unique park to visit. The Parc del Laberint d'Horta, in the image above, features a small maze that you can challenge yourself to go through. This park also has smaller trails that you can walk on that weave through the park's beautiful landscape. Not only is the Parc del Laberint d'Horta a relaxing setting, but it's also a historical site.

5. Placa Reial 

Take a break from the busy city side of Barcelona, and go to Placa Reial. With bars and outdoor seating, Placa Reial sets up a wonderful, relaxing atmosphere. Buildings in Placa Reial boast stunning architectural design, so you get a resting place and scenic environment in one place.

Barcelona is more than its popular tourist attractions. Go off the beaten path, and explore these great hidden gems yourself on your next trip to Barcelona. If you are looking for the best place to stay, you can never go wrong checking out Expedia. You can find great deals on hotel and accommodation.

Find Best Barcelona Spots Suggested by Locals

source: Spotted by Locals

Would you like to explore a city and skip most of the typical touristic places so you do not end up having paella in Las Ramblas for example? Would you be willing to waste your precious time going straight to Sagrada Familia without buying the tickets online in the right website if you could avoid it? 

Many are the mistakes we can make when we play the tourist in a foreign country. But what if we were able to get the best advice from dozens or hundreds of local 'guides' that volunteer to give you the best hints about places they have spotted for you, places that are their favorite secret troves. 

Yep, those things you can have with Google reviews, Google Maps' local guides, Foursquare, Yelp or the omnipresent but sometimes dubious Trip Advisor. In fact, there is a jungle out there of contradictory opinions that you have to sift and filter a lot to make your final decisions. Many of these helpful sites have their own biased interests, like selling accommodation, earning commission from restaurants, favoring the big business in the city and ruining the good guys, you name it. Well, sometimes money counts. Many of us sell stuff online with more or less success. It is just that the big shots are very unfair in their game.

And so, let's keep going with our hypothesis of the, what if? What if you could take those volunteered opinions in one city guide that you can navigate offline like a map, that you can update with fresh opinions from locals and to which you can add your own favorite spots? What if not only you could cover Barcelona for example but also 70 other cities in one single website? Or what is best, what if all that, traveled with you in a single app? 

Spotted by locals, founded by two experienced nomadic travel experts, Sanne and Bart back in 2008, is a network of almost 500 hand picked local spotters from all over the world that meet each other regularly and enjoy the benefits of sharing their own findings among them and fortunately with us. And they not only offer this excellent service on their website but now also in an app available for android or ios.

And you would say, this guy is selling me stuff, just like the rest. You are right! I am selling you a bright idea, an all-in-one travel app recommended by the New York Times. What did I get for this? What if I tell you that I am a happy user of the Barcelona Spotted by Locals app? I wish I could pay 3.99 euros for every city I visit. It would save me a lot of trouble. So far I just got Barcelona. It comes handy on many occasions. Another good reason is that last year Barcelona Photoblog was selected among the best Barcelona blogs of 2017 by Spotted by Locals. They were kind enough as to try my site and found it useful. I have tried their app and I loved it. And so why would I keep it just for myself if everything Barcelona, everything good in my lovely city is the reason for this blog to exist. I hope you enjoy their great work as much as I do.

Exploring Spain’s Neighbour - Four Top Lisbon Experiences

Spain and Portugal have a great deal in common with architecturally magnificent romantic cities, picturesque beaches, clear blue oceans and an endless supply of beautiful people. We have spent time providing the reader with everything they would want to know about the hustle and bustle of Barcelona, but what about a short skip across the border and into the wonderful Portuguese capital of Lisbon? Here are four experiences that make Lisbon well worth the visit.

1. Comfy Accommodation

Although there are many luxurious hotels available, if it is the true Portuguese experience that you are after, why not spend your nights in one of the many cosy cottages that are spread across the land. These warm guest houses offer visitors a chance to achieve the Portuguese housetrip experience and the traditions that come along with it.

2. Lisbon Zoo

With over 2000 animals on show at this beautiful zoo, this is definitely a must-see for people of all ages. It is easy to lose track of time here, spending hours enjoying the weird and wonderful creatures that call this planet their home. Two of the most popular attractions, that see people flocking from all over the world to enjoy, have to be the extremely rare White Tigers, as well as the majestic Mountain Gorillas.

3. Amphibious Hippotrip Tour

If you are the type of person that believes city tours are for boring old-timers, then you have obviously never heard of the exciting Hippotrips. What may begin as a simple city tour quickly turns into something straight out of a James Bond film, as your tour vehicle darts off straight into the heart of the River Tagus. This amphibious excursion provides a memorable way to learn all there is to know about this beautiful city.

4. Castelo de São Jorge

Close your eyes and think about the most luxurious looking fairy tale castle that you can imagine. The image that you have in your mind right now is probably pretty close to what the amazing Castelo de São Jorge looks like. If you think this structure is mind-blowing from a distance, just wait until you have a chance to experience the mesmerising 360 degree views of the city below, from atop the massive castle walls.

Barcelona Attempts to Regulate Impact of Tourism in the City

Last year Barcelona had the pleasure of giving accommodation to 8.303.609 travelers. This astonishing figure, that represents an increment of 5,4 % against previous year, would please the majority of local citizens and institutions if it weren’t for the fact that all in all they spent 2,1% less than in 2014. Low budget tourists increase in spite of the fact that the economy is getting better thanks to the constant flow of cash that evidently creates new jobs especially during the high season. During a whole decade, low cost travellers have been the general tendency in the city so according to many, new regulations should be implemented. Starting this year, representatives of hotel sectors, local authorities and boards of neighborhood members managed to reach some sort of agreement that controls the impact of tourism per areas in the city without restraining the successful figures of the Catalan economy.

 It is a fact that everyone has the right to travel according to their own pocket and it is difficult to apply the right of admission as if you were in a bar or something. Perhaps our town hall should read articles like this: Making tourism more sustainable

When it comes to low budget tourism it is inevitable to think of backpackers but as I said not everyone has the money to stay at Hotel Mandarin and you can find tight pockets in many illustrious hotels.

If you happen to be a backpacker and you want to visit Barcelona, you might consider this short list of hostels, quality and stylish hostels where you could vindicate your right to know our culture, enjoy your great holidays, study, find a couple, establish, integrate into our society or be a mere temporary visitor without no one telling you what you have to do and for the less amount of money you can pay. The only thing we ask is that you feel at home and you treat the city as such. By the way, this is valid for the spending kind too. Welcome to Barcelona everyone!

      • Casa Gracia 

      • St.Christopher's Inn 

      • Urbany hostel 

      • Kabul Hostel 

For those who simply want to search for the perfect hostel online, you could try Hostelz.com