Plan the perfect Barcelona getaway
Posted on Thursday 26 July 2012
in Holidays, Spain, Barcelona
By Sophia Choice
No matter how long Kiwis plan to spend in Barcelona, they can make their trip one of their most memorable experiences simply by taking advantage of the unique neighbourhoods surrounding them and the diverse cultures they come across. From the best place to stay to the most exciting attractions to enjoy, planning the best Barcelona holidays is easy when travellers know exactly where and when to go.
Wear zapatos made for walking
When travellers step off their flights to Barcelona and arrive in the bustling city, they should be prepared for much walking. They can strap on their most comfortable shoes and check in at one of the best Barcelona hotels, the Mandarin Oriental. The 98-room establishment is situated in the heart of the city and provides the most stylish accommodations to lucky guests who land coveted rooms here. Designed by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola, the interior is a blend of Moorish design with today's minimalist style. To prepare for a full day of sightseeing, guests can load up on the hotel's mouthwatering breakfast, which they can enjoy under the Mediterranean sun in the Mandarin's al fresco dining space, the Mimosa Garden.
Visit Barcelona's most famous barrio
Next up on the itinerary is Ramblas, one of the most iconic districts in the entire city. Dozens of restaurants, bars, stallholders and street performers cover the sidewalks, entertaining visitors and locals alike into the early hours of the morning. Reaching from Placa de Catalunya in the north to Monument a Colom in the south, the 1.2-kilometre passage is a must for Kiwis who want a true taste of Barcelona. Kiwis can discuss fine masterpieces at the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and test their bartering skills at Mercat de la Boqueria, the city's most renowned market. Travellers can sample authentic Catalonian flavours at El Quim, stall 606, including a tortilla de patatas or savoury Iberian ham.
Watch a light show after sunset
Kiwis should make sure to close one of their Barcelona evenings by the Font Magica, or Magic Fountain, which is situated near the Placa d'Espanya. The monument, built for the 1929 World's Fair by Carles Buigas, lights up in a rainbow of vibrant colours that appear to dance along with the streams of water. This structure is the first in a series of fountains that lead up to the stunning National Palace at the top of the hill.
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