BARCELONA

It is not surprising that Barcelona was named Best Beach City in the world by both the Discovery Channel and National Geographic, or that it is the most popular cruise- ship port in Europe.

As the capital of the autonomous region of Catalonia, Barcelona is the centre of the rejuvenation of the Catalan culture and language, both of which were suppressed under the dictatorship of Franco (1936-1975). As such, Barcelona has become a world centre for literature, art, music, architecture, sports, fashion, and of course, food.

From bustling local markets. to museums devoted to Spanish artists like Picasso or Miro, to mimes on the Ramblas, to extraordinary ancient sites… Barcelona is a joy for those who relish exploring on foot.

The incredible architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudi (e.g. the Sagrada Familia) are world renown; but Barcelona architecture reaches far beyond even that.  In fact, The Royal Gold Medal for Architecture which has been given by Britain every year since 1848 to honour an individual international architect, made an exception in 1999, when the award was given to Barcelona, the only time a city was so honoured.

As a centre for art, ranging from antiquity to contemporary, few world cities match Barcelona in its scope or quality.   Similarly, Barcelona cuisine is as varied as it is outstanding, consisting of adaptations of a Mediterranean diet of locally sourced seasonal food excelling in both flavour and visual appeal.

Barcelona is also an excellent centre for inspiring day trips to places like Girona, Montserrat, Sitges, Collserola and Montblanc. Not to be missed, is the astounding Salvador Dali museum in Figueres, where every part of the museum structure is as fascinating as are the paintings, sculptures and jewellery displayed therein.

No matter what your interests or how much time you spend here, your Barcelona memories are sure to last a lifetime.