The Patent Spot: March 2011

I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit beautiful Barcelona last week. My sister and I left on Valentine’s Day and I can honestly say, it was love at first sight! I instantly fell in love with the city-from the gigantic palm trees, the crystal clear beaches, and the overflow of the language of love.

I visited lazily sensuous Salou, a city an hour away from Barcelona where the Mediteranean Sea flows. One word: FASCINATING. While it was not hot enough to actually swim in the water, a walk on the beach was sufficient. But even on a breezy spring-like day it was to die for. The strong waves hit the coast while dogs chased each other by the water. It looked like something out of a postcard. Surreal, I tell you.

Barcelona boasts conservatism. You can tell from the nature of its citizens and the fashion. Most dress very simple and casual, yet fashionable. I didn’t take photos of their fashion because I kept getting that side eye when I asked to take a photo of someone in my horrible Español. Sorry.

I had no idea of what to expect of Barcelona geographically, but the city is really developed and Americanized with popular eats like Mc Donald’s, Burger King and Subway. Oh, and by the way, public busses out there are made by Mercedes! How cool is that?

I went to Parc Central, a shopping centre in Tarragona, where I found some amazing deals. I shopped the populous H&M, United Colors of Benetton, Zara and other amazing shops. Even bought a new lip ring! I also went to a market where you can find bargains for days.

I didn’t eat out as much as my family in Barcelona prepared meals at home, but other than Mickey D’s and BK, I ate at a sushi/buffet joint called Wok Takunya. The buffet offered calamari, shrimp tempura, salads, fried chicken wings and delectable desserts. If you ever visit Barcelona, you should hit this place up.

Coming back home, we had a layover in London. While there I stopped at a luxury shoe boutique called Kurt Geige which carries Jimmy Choo, Sergio Rossi, and more designer brands.

Overall, Barcelona is a city you MUST visit! If you’re looking for something extraordinary and cultural, get yourself a ticket and get on the next thing smoking to España. I promise you, you’ll be glad you did, there’s so much to absorb. Seven days just wasn’t enough for me.