As I boarded the plane, the nerves started kicking in. Not because I was nervous about flying, but because I was doing it solo and didn’t know anyone in Barcelona. I was also a little bit nervous about my accommodation. Since I booked it so last minute, I was worried that it wasn’t going to be as it seemed online. But I feel like that was the kind of nervousness that anyone gets when they’re booking accommodation. I’ve stayed in places over the years, which for the price just weren’t up to par, so naturally I was a little bit worried.

The flight in itself was very very smooth and so was the landing. As soon as I got off the plane the warm air hit my face. It was such a nice change in comparison to the English weather I’ve been having to put up with. Once I got through security at the airport I headed straight to the information point to collect my Hola BCN! travel card. The information office was very helpful and gave me the much needed directions to the bus that was supposed to take me to the centre of Barcelona, as well as all the necessary maps to help me get around.

Not speaking any Spanish was definitely a little bit of a challenge. As I got on the bus I was a little confused as to where I had to get off, but with a little help of a local lady I got directed to the right place. I have to admit right from the beginning of my trip I really regretted that I didn’t take the time to familiarize myself with the language. It wasn’t the end of the world though, as most spoke in English and didn’t give you a hard time if you didn’t speak Spanish.

The place where I was supposed to stay, throughout my vacation was in the Gotic district of Barcelona, which was absolutely beautiful. I had to admit though, on my way to finding the accommodation, I got absolutely lost, despite being given quite good directions. The area was full of tight little streets and I just happened to make a wrong turn at some point. I was very determined to find my way around and eventually reached my destination. I was staying right by Plaça Sant Jaume and was within walking distance to Las Rambla, which is the main street in Barcelona. So all in all, the location of my stay was perfect, as it was tucked away from the business of the main street but close enough to everything else.

In terms of transport in Barcelona, it really was fantastic, very straight forward and very punctual. I’m the kind of person who hates being late so I really appreciated how reliable it was. My Hola BCN! travelcard was definitely an essential on that trip. Although I was told by the locals whom I stayed with that the T10 Transport ticket was something that the locals used and for under €10 it enabled 10 journeys in Zone 1 of Barcelona (city centre). I probably should mention that Barcelona is not a huge city, so it is very easy to get around on foot as well. For those however who don’t enjoy walking as much, the underground is the one to use.

Barcelona’s attractions, which I visited were absolutely fantastic. Sagrada Família was breathtaking and I would suggest buying a ticket in advance for the morning opening as it it wasn’t as busy early in the morning. Parc Güell was beautiful also and definitely worth a visit. I purchased my ticket online also but had no idea it would be as busy as it was. As I managed to get to the viewing platform, my phone battery died and I was unable to take
any photos. However as I was leaving, one of the security ladies has suggested that I return the next day before the barriers get set up as the entry to the park is free and there’s hardly anyone there. After getting that tip, I decided to get up super early on the day of my departure and get a chance to see Parc Güell in all it’s glory, without it being swamped with tourists. I for sure enjoy seeing places and enjoying them without the crowds. I find, it makes it tha
t much more special and you get to immerse yourself so much more in the culture. The architecture of the city itself was amazing and made walking around so enjoyable. I made it my mission ,hitting up all of Gaudí’s infamous buildings and although I haven’t been able to see every single one, I’ve managed to see most of them by foot! I saw Sagrada Família, Parc Güell, Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Palau Güell, Casa Vicens (although that one was under construction) & Casa Calvet. I’ll admit, my feet were very sore at the end of that day, but it felt like quite an achievement.

As well as seeing the famous Gaudí architecture, I also had the time to see Palau Nacional, which houses The Catalan art museum. Unfortunately by the time I got there it was just about to close, but the the architecture of the museum and the surrounding area was absolutely beautiful. I walked
all around the museum and even got a chance to walk around the Olympic Stadium of Barcelona. I was advised by a friend to return to Plaça Espanya, where the Palau Nacional was in the evening to witness the light show at the Font màgica de MontjuÏc (magic fountain of Montjuïc) and it was absolutely spectacular. I had no idea it was so popular, as I got there, there were such big crowds of people, all in a search of a perfect spot. I managed to find myself a perfect spot with a great view and just sat there and enjoyed the light show. In that particular time, as I was looking around, I thought that it would have been amazing to enjoy the experience with someone. Not necessarily, other half, but a friend. It was probably the only moment throughout my trip that I felt a little lonely. But at the same time I also felt empowered, to have had the courage to take this trip myself.

On my last day in Barcelona (after getting an early start at Parc Güell), I felt it was a necessity to visit the beach during my time in the city. The sun was shining and it was so lovely and warm, with hardly anyone around. I totally adored just soaking up the sun and hearing the waves softly crushing on the beach. In that time I realised how fortunate I was to have been there at that time. After 3 days of exploring the city, it was the kind of ‘time out’ moment I needed. I didn’t think of much, just listened to the sound of birds and the sea. It was absolute perfection – perfect end note to my trip.

The trip was so eye opening and something that I would recommend for anyone to do. If you don’t feel like you could do it, it’s a perfect reason to actually DO IT! Expanding your horizons and moving out of your comfort zone is such a character builder. I felt incredibly safe, all throughout my stay. By the 2nd day in the city I felt like a local and absolutely comfortable getting around. The people of Barcelona were all very friendly and extremely welcoming. I really have nothing bad to say about the city. As my first solo trip, it was definitely the best destination.