International Series – Barcelona, Spain

Impressions I have been in Barcelona for 1.5 weeks and I am realizing that my energy is draining while the city continues to offer so much to observe, experience, and try. Being in this part of the globe, the sun does not set until closer to 9 in the evening. People can been seen eating in local cafes, resturants, and bars late into the night. I have been staying father from the old part of the city, and therefore have been using the train system daily in my travels.

Public Transit I noticed that the trains do not have advertisements sprawled along the windows and above the seats. There is a small screen that lets you know what stop you are entering into. In this small screen some trains have advertisements at certain hours. By the door, there is a small trash can that you can dispose of your trash at. Most of the trains are connected in such a way that you can see and walk directly from train car to train car as if they were all one train. Finally, to control the heating and cooling in the train, when people leave or enter the train there is either a button or lever that one must push to open the door.

Atmosphere Living in the US I have learned that it was custom to focus on myself and minimally (sometimes not at all) acknowledge the people around me. I have been surprised to find that people tend to be friendly and welcoming when you ask them questions or interact with them. Its a genuine kind of kindness and calmness. It seems like there is generally less anxiety and less rushing. It is also common for stores to be open during the day, close for a couple of hours in the afternoon, and reopen for the evening. The hours vary from store to store, but it does not seem like anyone is in a rush to get somewhere. We are already here.

Art & Architecture Barcelona is filled with all kinds of beautiful architecture, grafitti art, and public art. What I have enjoyed spotting is different variations of plant sculptures (grapes, oranges, vines, etc) and interpretations of dragons. There are so many dragons! I have noticed a lot of grafitti art while using public transit. The grafitti is very lively, colorful and fun. The public spaces such as parks are designed with asthetics in mind. It seems that everything is oozing with creativity and design.

Precautions Pickpocketing is pretty common. Guard your phones and be aware of where your bag is. Make sure to count your change carefully and whenever possible pay with your card.

To be continued…

Happy Travels!