Las Ramblas

Barcelona is a city of contrasts. From the artistic brilliance of Picasso and Gaudi to the historical conflicts that reigned here during Franco's regime. It is a vibrant city of mosaics, people and food. Wander down Las Ramblas and the hustle and bustle of locals, tourists and street performers buzz all around. As you meander down the side streets away from the crowds, you will inevitably pass historical churches, local cafes and courtyards that beckon to be explored. While the crowds may frequent some of the more well known sites, be sure to explore a few of the more remote courtyards along the way and perhaps take along a good book to find your own unique escape.

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‘All human life is there’ is well-worn cliché but its probably never been more true than when said about Las Ramblas in Barcelona. This is a street for strolling and people watching. One of the main attractions, especially for children, are the ‘angel and devil’ figures who sit or stand perfectly still until someone gives them money. They spring to life, often completely scaring the onlookers, when what sound like curses in many languages hit the airwaves.

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An example of how much I love Barcelona: I’ve quite my job and am moving there for a month (initially!). Plan of action when I get there? To do as they do in Spain of course, and just see what happens. Barcelona is an eclectic mix of old and new, fast and slow, calm and noise. Yet, for all the contradictions, it is a city with a simple ethos at it’s heart. Just be. Just be who you are. No pretence. No pressure. Just be. Somehow, in Barcelona, you can step in and out of whatever world you want to be in. While all the other world’s spin around you, you can always find your sanctuary. The contradictions sit in harmony. I’m not sure I’ll ever leave.

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Each year Catalonia Spain bids farewell to their summer with La Merce`Fetstival. This week long fiesta which takes place in September (Sept 21, Summer Soltice) colors the city with parades, fireworks, music and their Catellers also know as, human tower pyramids.Crowds pour into the placa of the Old Quarter to watch these humans in costumed teams compete in building the tallest tower with out tumbling down.Drums beat intensely as the towers build from packed bodies building a solid foundation from the ground. Bodies crawl on one another as they build a new layer by locking their arms and using the shoulders of the person beneath them for support. The bottom rows are of the older and more heavy castellers erecting up to the lightest bodies which are kids up to 5 years old. The bottom level is crucial for it forms a cushion for any cateller that may tumble down, and they do at times. The crowd is in total silence as they watch the castellers stack on top of each other reaching over 100 feet in suspended air. This unusual and spectacular practice is tradition to Catalonia dating back to the 1800's. The music, colors and ambient of the fiesta come alive as spectators watch each new layer form while their mouths remain open in suspense. A marvelous tradition to see, just don't forget to breath while watching.

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Sagrada Familia, check. Museo Picasso, check. So much to see and so little time, right? But aren't the most memorable travel moments so often those that happen when the best laid plans go awry? Ramble down las Ramblas. Get swept up in the late afternoon current of people that flows through the streets of Barcelona. Old couples walking arm in arm... Children pretending to be medieval knights in the plazas... Over-the-top street performers crying out for attention (or help?). Everyone (and that includes you!) comes together in the great river of motion and commotion that is the Spanish paseo.

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