Though truly steeped in history and conflict and fiercely protective of its Catalan language and identity, much of Barcelona is in fact a modern, post-1992 Olympic Games style construct. Even though it its now more than a decade ago, it is hard not to notice the effect the Olympic games had on the city. While some may say that the city has become a little complacent in its "coolness", recent changes in attitude have brought a focus back to serving visitors better. The modus-operandi for the Olymipc project was to ‘turn Barcelona around’ to face the sea, creating miles and miels of beach from virtual wasteland. 1970's high-rises flung up during the Franco era were demolished, derelict blocks razed to provide open spaces and parkland, and world-class artists and sculptors were commissioned to brighten up street corners. Along with the creation of the new Barcelona in bricks and mortar went the promotion of Barcelona-as-concept, a seductive cocktail of architecture, imagination, tradition, style, nightlife and primary colours.
Barcelona’s love of eccentricity had already brought about a wealth of quirky museums (such as those devoted to shoes, perfume, sewers, funeral carriages and mechanical toys), to which more were added. Its handsome but grimy façades were buffed up, its streets renamed and its churches restored. To see it nowadays it’s as if the drab decades were just a collective bad dream.
As we said before, this is a city of many distinct areas. The city itself can be divided into distinct regions. The main gay area is around Eixample or "Gayexample", as it is know locally. The general focus of this guide will revolve around the activities within the Eixample area, however Barcelona has so much more to offer, we encourage you to experience each district and relax in true Mediterranean style as you take in one of the most dynamic cities in Europe
The best place to watch people go by, to stroll or simply relax, is 'Las Ramblas', a pedestrian street with dozens of outdoor cafes. Here, youll find flower-stands, book kiosks and small market stalls where they sell birds and small animals. Youll also find an endlessly fascinating flowing receptacle of pageant-jugglers, singers, dancers, puppeteers, sidewalk artists, living statues and assorted oddballs on parade. Nearby is 'Plaça Real', with plenty of bars and restaurants, and 'Palau Guell', built by the Catalan architectural genius Antoni Gaudí in his undulating art-nouveau style.
After having seen these sights, stroll the narrow winding streets of the 'Barrio Gotic', the medieval Gothic quarter full of interesting tapas bars and cafes. Check out Picassos old hangout, 'Els Quatre Gats', which has been renovated without losing its bohemian charm. Or head for the old Barceloneta section on the waterfront. This working-class area, which was always slightly rundown and scruffy-looking, is now packed with paella restaurants. The new beach area, which runs from Barceloneta to the Olympic village, is much cleaner than the old beach area. Although some people believe that it has been cleaned up considerably, it might be a wise idea to stay out of the water. Fortunately, the beach itself is already a feast for the eyes (and ears), with its huge and roaring waves.
Catalans are known for their independent spirit and their sense of humour. Salvador Dali was a Catalan and his bizarre sense of humour is just one example of the regions endearing weirdness. Spring is the best time to visit Barcelona, you can expect a temperature of round and about 20 degrees. During summer, it can get very
hot (about 35 degrees) and crowded (because of the cultural events). Barcelona will be as expensive as you want it to be. Attention: Barcelona is pretty rich and so prices are much higher than somewhere else in Spain. Still, restaurants are relatively cheap (at lunch time you can find a two course meal and desert for 7-9) and for a hotel, three meals and a night out, count on some 145 Euro for two persons.
Imagine this. You're walking down the fashionable Ramblas taking in some photos when bam... right before your very eyes you see two macho boys walking past you... You look back, because, well they're hot and you're on holiday. They stop by one of the many flower shops, purchase a fresh bouquet as the old woman serving them smiles and makes conversation. Intrigued, you watch as they sit in a cafe holding hands, discussing their plans for the weekend. No one bats an eyelid. No one cares. Welcome to Barcelona.
Whilst the description we have provided may seem a litle cliched, it is in fact a regular occurance. In terms of tolerance, openness, and live-and-let-live attidude, Barcelona is fast surpassing Paris and Amsterdam as a centre for gay living and gay culture. So much so that just recently (November 2007) the government of Catalunya became a full memeber of the ILGA. Gay rights are fully protected and enshrined in law... This isn't just lipservice to gay culture... this is how it should be! Come experience it!
A city of cities, Barcelona is a collection of diverse quarters, each with something different to offer. Its not surprise really. Barcelona is a melting pot of different cultures, ethnicities and experiences. From the preserved historic gothic quarters, the beautiful boulevards right through to the urban planning -"Enlargement", Eixample, with its grid-like layout and courtyard gardens, this is a city that provides a feast for every sense, something to discover around every corner.
Different guides divide the city into different areas. After living here for over 3 years, this is how we find out way around. Each person is different, however we feel that the folowing sections deserve spececial merit. By exploring these areas you will gain a true insight into life in Barcelona.
These areas include L'Eixample, Ramblas, Barrio Gotico, El Born, Raval, Barceloneta, Sea Front, Montjuic. We will develop these sections over time as the guide grows.
