So after a thousand movies, books and films that romanticize the city of Barcelona, I arrived and was like HUH???? The city is a splitting image of New York City, which was such a disappointment because I was expecting to see more small old streets with winding passage ways and black gated balconies, but perhaps maybe I watch too much tv. Since my expectations were so high, after touring the city I was kind of confused, but I have to say the region of Catalunya as a whole (the region in which Barcelona is located) is BEAUTIFUL. Catalunya is engulfed by mountains and small villages with Barcelona being the city of its center. Thanks to Tammy’s uncle we got the chance to stay with one of his business clients whose family goes back generations living in Catalunya, hence he knew all of the less visited tourist spots that he thought we’d love to see, and we LOVED it.

We visited the Montserrat, the oldest school of music in Europe (perhaps the most prestigious) and its gorgeous cathedral. Interestingly enough, two of his nephews are attending school there and just to give you an idea, approximately 50 students (its a boys only school) are accepted into the school and it ranges from ages 10 to 14 across various grades. His family was probably the most interesting part of my trip. Between meeting all of his musical genius nephews, nieces, and sisters to talking with his parents about their FIRST HAND experiences with Spain’s Franco era, I couldn’t have had a better time or more culturally enlightening experience. And of course, all the hospitality/accomodations were free and we got a ton of free dinners, lol, student bliss.

Anyway, he also took us to Nuria, which is this awesome ski resort up in the mountains. It was SNOWING!!!! How cool, I drank fresh mountain water from a rock (thought of you Uncle Bruce and your hatred of bottle water lol) and then played in the snow like I was 8 again.

In all, the trip was amazing, but recommendations to all who are planning to travel to the region, spend a day in Barcelona and AS MUCH TIME AS POSSIBLE IN THE MOUNTAINS.

Pics are below, love ya!