As my colleague Christian Fons mentioned in a previous post, aside from being the culinary epicenter of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is one of the most bohemian yet cosmopolitan cities in the world. Barcelona can offer you the sun and sea, snow and mountains, art, music, festivals and much more… all “with a smile on his face”.
What represents Barcelona the best? The art of Antoni Gaudi!
Gaudi’s unique approach to the Art Nouveau movement generated some of the most creative buildings in Barcelona and he was instrumental establishing the unique architect style that emerged around the turn of the 20th century: The Catalan modernist architecture.
When you walk through the streets of Barcelona, you will easily identify buildings by Gaudi because they are unmistakably recognizable. So, if you’re interested to learn more about Gaudi, be sure to visit the famous buildings that he designed as described below:
Embark on a Gaudi tour, including a visit to the magnificent Sagrada Familia basilica—which by 2026 might be finished! You’ll pass by Gaudi’s spectacular house of “Casa Batllo” and his famous “dragon” roof or “La Pedrera”. Continue on to the humanoid chimeneas that inspired George Lucas’ Storm troopers in Star Wars and then finish your day with a colorful sunset at Park Güell. This last site is where I live and I’m grateful to be able to enjoy daily walks with my dog in this beautiful forest away from the city crowds.
Take a stroll through the old city of Barcelona, also known as the Gothic Quarter, where every corner hides its own history and evolution. The Born district is known for their local designers and great restaurants such as Can Cisa/Bar Brutal, Bar Angel or Bar del Pla. Top off the night with an outstanding cocktail at Tuxedo Social Club or Dr. Stravinsky, consider to be the best cocktail bar in Spain.
At the end of the day, whatever tour you take or route you go, the most important part is to get lost and discover corners of the city that you might never imagine.
This is my city, my place to be.
Europe Tours Bohemian Barcelona Spain Design Architecture Churches Mandarin Oriental Barcelona
I was born and raised in Cordoba, Andalucia, in the south of Spain with an Argentinian father and a German grandfather.
For the first five years of my life, I lived in a hotel. I used to answer the phones and greet the speakers. Not knowing what to say, I would pass the phone to my mom saying “it’s for you”. Although I studied law, I found my calling as a concierge.
I started my hospitality career as a bellboy in a small boutique hotel called Roger de Lluria. Through the years, I work my way up to receptionist until finally I found my true passion for the #conciergelife.
I speak six languages and am in the process of learning another four. I am known as the geek, nerd, or freak of the team because I love computers, social media, films, yoga, meditation and Les Clefs d’Or.
My Les Clefs d’Or life started in 2013 and in 2014 I was the community manager of Las Llaves de Oro where I managed the website, Instagram and Facebook for over 2 years.
Nowadays I live 24/7 as a concierge for the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, which to me is the best hotel in town.
Located in the heart of Barcelona’s most elite address, Passeig de Gràcia, Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is an exclusive avant-garde hotel, expert in delivering luxury.
Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the spectacular interior of the 120 room and suite Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona is complemented by the legendary hospitality of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.
Guests are invited to enjoy Carme Ruscalleda’s cutting-edge Catalan cuisine at the two-Michelin starred restaurant Moments. For a more casual experience, Blanc offers an all-day dining restaurant. Banker’s Bar serves innovative cocktails in a setting that pays tribute to the historic bank that was formerly there. Using the original safes within the design of the bar, it boasts a unique atmospheric combination of energy and privacy.
Guests can take a swim and enjoy a wide selection of drinks and delicious Peruvian cuisine by Gastón Acurio, at Terrat rooftop’s dipping pool, whilst Mimosa garden offers the perfect spot to enjoy summer in Barcelona.
The hotel’s Spa is the perfect place to escape the everyday hustle and bustle. With its peaceful 12-metre swimming pool and eight tranquil treatment rooms, guests can enjoy a break as relaxing as it is lively.
www.mandarinoriental.com/barcelona/
+34 93 151 88 88
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