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Barcelona for Senior Travelers

Barcelona for Senior Travelers

For slightly older travelers, tapas bar hopping just doesn't cut it anymore. Night long partying and high energy activities do not seem to entice you like they used to, and navigating through throngs of other tourists is the number one thing that you want to avoid during your vacation. Traveling in such a bustling city like Barcelona may seem hectic, but a peaceful and enjoyable holiday can be experienced in this beautiful city. For a more relaxed yet fulfilling time in Barcelona, here is what we would recommend for the more senior and seasoned travelers out there.
 

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1. Take a “hop on and off” bus tour

Activities like this have always gotten a bad reputation for being the “lazy” and “inauthentic” way of exploring a city. But what most travellers forget is that there is the option for people to get off the bus to explore the attractions themselves. Take it to be like a shuttle bus, bringing you straight from landmark to landmark. With such a system, it becomes so easy for older travelers to customise their own itinerary, only visiting what they are interested in and not having to navigate through public transport, or walk miles upon miles to the next destination. This mode of exploring the city certainly provides a lot more convenience than taking the public transport or walking, but without having to compromise on any attractions! There is a wide variety of such services available in Barcelona, making it perfect for senior travellers to explore the city with ease.

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

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2. Take a class
 

Be it a flamenco class or cooking class, learn more about Barcelona’s culture and cuisine through engaging and interactive lessons! There is no better way to learn about the city than interacting with its locals. Rather than just visiting monuments and landmarks, why not deepen your understanding of the culture in Barcelona with interactive lessons? Try a paella making class with our Bonappetour host David, or a tapas making workshop with our host Nani! There are endless opportunities for one to learn more about Barcelona, without having to compete with the crowds that swarm famous attractions in the city. Gain insights into the city from a local’s perspective and be amazed at just how much of Barcelona there is that goes beyond its tourist attractions.

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3. Dine in the dark

Instead of having a regular meal at a restaurant, invigorate your senses with a one of a kind experience – dining in the dark. During this experience, you will be treated to a meal of gastronomical heights. Have your sense of sight completely eliminated with the help of blindfolds and taste some authentic Spanish food, while simultaneously exposing your senses to this unique dining experience. This is sure to make a mark on your trip to Barcelona. Why not try this spectacular experience with our host Pablo, who offers this amazing dinner in an intimate setting just for you and your family, right in the heart of Barcelona!a

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4. Vineyard tour

Not going to the nightly parties that are abundant on the streets of Barcelona, does not mean that you should not enjoy the alcohol that this city has to offer. Take a leisurely trip to one of the many local vineyard near the city and have a taste at some of the best wines, like Cava, you will ever find. Enjoy a tour of the grounds and learn about how certain wines are made locally. The best part of such vineyard tours? The wine tasting session to that comes after the tour. This is certainly one of the best ways to unwind and truly enjoy Barcelona's culture with your loved ones. Enjoy the peaceful and more rural setting for a day, before heading back into the city. 

 

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The Top 5 Neighbourhoods to Visit when in Barcelona

The Top 5 Neighbourhoods to Visit when in Barcelona

An adventure to Barcelona is a journey into the historical, architectural and gastronomical wonders of the Catalonian city. Here are the best Barcelona neighborhoods that will definitely make your adventure most fulfilling. Be sure to hang out at:

1. El Raval

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Right in the heart of Barcelona, El Raval was historically infamous for its vibrant nightlife and cabarets. The closest of the city to the port – now the historical Museu Maritim, Raval saw a lot of large-scale immigration that brought along diversity and charisma to the neighborhood and was transformed into a melting pot of cultures. For all hipsters and art-enthusiasts out there, drop by the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art and the nearby Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB) to check-out the latest cultural happenings. After decades of development, El Raval today is popular among seasoned travelers for its adventurous and edgy vibe, some dub it the Bronx of Barcelona. Check out the famous La Boqueria market which houses hundreds of stalls selling fresh fruits and seafood. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Eating in La Boqueria for our best picks for dining at the world’s best market! Beware of pickpockets and other unsavoury characters at night, especially when you are alone, but otherwise, come revel at El Raval Barcelona’s el cor de la ciutat.  

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

 

2. Barri Gòtic

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Just across the La Rambla Boulevard from El Raval, the Barri Gòtic, boasts the juxtaposition of ancient and modernity. You can find both the bustling and serene side of the city here at El Gòtic’s many Plaça. Fans of the glorious Roman history can quench their thirst for knowledge at the History Museum of Barcelona (MUHBA) and the remains of Temple d’Augustus, which overlooks the historical Plaça del Rei that once graced by Christopher Colombus after his journey from the Americas. Just a stone throw from the Museum is the 700 years – famed Gothic Barcelona Cathedral, home to the 13 geese that represent the Patron Saint Eulalia of the city. If you have an appreciation for the finer things in life, stroll along the La Rambla Boulevard from the north and visit Plaça Catalunya for its designer boutiques and Gaudi modernism architecture. Spend the night partying away at the hippest and flamboyant bars along Carrer d’Avinyo and the nearby Plaça del George Orwell (dubbed the Trippy Square). Feeling hungry? Satisfy your hunger pangs at the many restaurants in the area, or choose to dine with friendly locals like Pablo in his unique Dine in the Dark experience. Why not immerse yourself in the blurred lines of past and present in Barri Gòtic ?

3. El Born

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Retreat from the bustle of the city centre to the calm and peaceful El Born, located just ten minutes’ walk from the La Rambla Boulevard. Once a medieval residence for the rich, El Born has transformed into the home of the arts, notably with its association with the famous Cubist artist Pablo Picasso. Pay homage to his works at the Gothic-styled Museu Picasso, where you can find over 4000 works and discover his early bond with Barcelona. Check out the Palau de la Musica’s wide range of musical events that will quench your thirst for sophistication and culture. Another destination for art enthusiasts is the Textile Museum that home to the fashion history exhibit that will take you through the fabric of time, from the Baroque era to modern history, including some of the most elaborated Hispano-Arabic textiles. Take a walk south towards Passeig del Born– once a jousting arena and now a popular nightlife destination of young locals. If you are in the mood for some good Cava – the Catalan take on French Champagne – visit El Xampanyet, located midway from the Museu Picasso and the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar. Feel the rebirth of your love for arts at El Born- Barcelona’s corner of tranquility for your soul.

4. El Poble Sec

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Enclosed by the busy El Raval and the scenic Montjuic hill, El Poble Sec is largely unbeaten track that is untouched by tourist activity, but this doesn’t mean that it is any less exciting and vibrant. Check out El Molino, a nightclub with both historical significance as well as current popularity for modern caberets. Take a stroll along the busy Avinguda del Parallel, from the magnificent Plaça Enspanya which was built for Barcelona World Fair in 1929, to the modern boat-shaped World Trade Center right at the habour front. Retreat to the serenity of El Poble Sec as you walk up Montjuic and visit the myriad of Jardins (Gardens) in the area, like the Jardin de Laribal, designed by French landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier. Sports fans will be excited to find out about the grand Anella Olímpica (The Olympics Ring) that was home to the 1992 Olympics. Do check out the nearby Sant Antoni Market which will spoil you with food products rivaling that of La Boqueria. And if you feel hungry, stop by Quimet i Quimet, a renowned tapas bar that will sure whet your appetite, or try out the unique Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine with our lovely BonAppetour host Luna. With all the experiences available, you will not regret one second in El Poble Sec.  

5.L’Eixample

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L’Eixample is the Barcelona center of Catalan modernism architecture. The area is graced with modernist buildings and structures, notably along the Passeig de Gracia, home to some of Antoni Gaudi and Domenech i Muntaner – two of the most famous modernist architects – works such as Casa Batllo and Casa Lleo Morera. Gaudi’s magnum opus, however, is the unfinished La Sagrada Familia with its enchanting lightshow and dancing ground, while Domenech i Muntaner’s most well known building, World Heritage Site Hospital de Sant Pau, is situated a few blocks to the North. L’Eixample is also Barcelona’s shopping paradise – Arenas de Barcelona and Mercat dels Encants Vells – Fira de Bellcaire flea market to name a few. The heart of L’Eixample are streets that are lined with international designer shops and art galleries unique to Catalan culture. Wind down at night with your favourite cocktails at Dry Martini,  a bar that serves enormous Gin and Tonic while soaking up the atmosphere of L’Eixample right at the heart of Catalan modernism.

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Top 5 Summer Events in Barcelona that you MUST go to

Top 5 Summer Events in Barcelona that you MUST go to

Summer is here finally! Join in the biggest parties in the universe. It’s time to let down your hair and get those feet grooving! Living up to its expectation as the city of festivals, Barcelona’s summer calendar is bursting with events, so you're covered from day to night. Here are the ­­top 5 must-go to events if you are packing your bags for Barcelona this Summer!

Sónar Festival

Held between 16 to 17 June, Sónar festival is the largest electronic music gala that illuminates the fusion between creativity, cutting edge technology and innovation. To put it simply, it is a mega music festival that features the latest experimentation from both homegrown and international artists. Showcasing the latest remixes and creation in the electronic music landscape, this summer party is bound to sweep you off your feet straight away. Before you go into a mad rush to get a pair of tickets, take note that Sónar comes in two versions- Sónar by Day and Sónar by Night. Do compare price differentials and pros and cons to decide which Sónar suits your palate.

 

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

 Grec Festival de Barcelona

You don’t have to be a cultural enthusiast nor a theatre-goer to appreciate the beauty of the Barcelona’s culture extravaganza. Originally a theatrical event 40 years ago, El Grec (the Greece) Barcelona has evolved into a multidisciplinary cultural event that has something in store for everybody no matter what how quirky your art appetite is! Ranging from theatre, dance, music, flamenco, film to the circus, you are in for a treat! Beginning from the 1st of July, and stretching all the way to 31st July, there is a mixture of free and ticketed performances lining up for you. We would definitely recommend you to catch one of the shows at Grec Theatre, an amphitheater that offers an enchanting setting, righty apt for the fascinating performances that are set to unfold before your eyes.

La Festa Major de Gràcia (The Gracia Festival)

Attributing to its title as one of the most popular neighborhood festivals, Barcelona’s Summer would not be complete without La Festa Major de Gràcia. Taking place between 15 to 21 August, the occasion gathers residents together for an endless list of communal activities. Get ready to be in awe of the façade of the streets that are intricately and delicately beautified by the residents themselves. Night (approx. 8.30pm) is the perfect time to go if you are looking for a grand and dramatic entrance; most of the illuminations will get ignited once you set foot on Gràcia. *tada!* Just a word of caution, as much as tourists are welcomed, consideration is sought to keep the ornaments intact and noise disturbances to a minimum after 1am.

 

Festa De La Mercè 

Mark your calendar on 24 September when Barcelona commemorates Saint la Mercè  (The Virgin of Mercy) in a spellbinding fashion. Indulge in the summer bash by immersing yourself over a range of parade performances from Castells (human tower), dancing giants, and Correfoc (fire run). The event is estimated to begin in the dusk when the roads are closed and the streets are open to the entrance of ‘The Devils’ dressed by community members carrying bangers and fireworks crackers. As Correfoc comes in 2 types, ‘junior’ and ‘adult’ Correfoc, you can definitely adjust the ‘thrill level’ for your participation. If you are new to Correfoc, a wiser choice would be to join in the event earlier for milder fire sparks instead of the showering flames directly from the sparklers happening at a slightly later hour.

 

Castells (Sant Felix-Vilafrancia)

Last but not least, Catalan Festival of Barcelona that exhibits the prominent Castells (human towers) and traditional dances are one of the stellar events not to be missed. Usually spotted every Saturday evening during the Summer months, a tower that is literally made out of humans stepping on each other’s shoulder will leave you gazing on in fascination. The human tower would be accomplished when a child climbs all the way to the top and raises his hand. Hold on! Before you get inspired to form your own Castells team, subsequently gathering your friends to stack on top of each other, we strongly recommend that the creation of such edifices to be undertaken only by trained crews to avoid broken arms and legs. 

 

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The Coolest and Quirkiest Things to Do in Barcelona

The Coolest and Quirkiest Things to Do in Barcelona

A bustling city like Barcelona is definitely not short of exciting activities for you to try. Take a break from the cursory and ordinary sightseeing that regular tourists experience. Instead, embark on an adventure that will surely make your trip to Barcelona far more memorable than just visiting landmarks will. From watching a film under the stars to extreme beach sports, here are the top 7 coolest things that you can do while you’re in Barcelona.

 

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Take a class

From cooking classes to dance classes, Barcelona is definitely a place where you can pick up some new skills. With such deep-rooted history and culture, why not pick up a few tricks of the trade? Try taking a traditional flamenco lesson in the heart of Barcelona, or a stand-up paddling lesson on Barcelona’s prized beaches. Better yet, take a cooking class to learn more about the cuisine in Barcelona, while simultaneously treating yourself to some authentic Spanish food. Try the best paella making workshop in all of Barcelona with our host David, or an amazing tapas making workshop with a view to match with our host Nani, and come home with more than just photographs from Barcelona.
 

[BARCELONA-FLAVOURS https://www.bonappetour.com/s/Barcelona–Barcelona–Spain?lat=41.38506389999999&lng=2.1734034999999494]

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Catch a film in the great outdoors

Why watch a movie in a regular cinema like you would at home, when you can watch a movie surrounded by the sights and sounds of Barcelona? Catch a film in one of Barcelona’s multiple outdoor cinemas, from a beach to a fort, there will surely be a setting that you will find yourself completely in love with. Not a fan of big crowds at such events? Our host Nani can provide you with the exact same experience but just for you and your traveling companions. Enjoy your private outdoor cinema in the countryside with mountain views, great open space and refreshments provided.

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Visit the legendary Camp Nou

What is a trip to Barcelona without a paying homage to the world famous football cathedral Camp Nou, home to the current La Liga champion FC Barcelona? Take a tour of this magnificent stadium and travel in time to witness the glorious history of Barca, from the Cruyff ‘Dream Team’ years to the recent reign of Guardiola’s Tiki Taka,  from the likes of past legends like Koeman who brought the team its first European trophy, to the recent legends like Ronaldinho or the record-breaker Lionel Messi. Other than football, do check out the private art collection on display there which exhibits works by local artists as Dalí, Miró, and Tàpies.

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A chocolate museum

Visit Barcelona’s very own chocolate museum, Museu de la Xocolata, to truly know how it feels like to be a kid in a candy store. Learn about the origins of this sweet treat and its influence on Europe’s culinary scene. Tickle your senses as you tour through this small but nonetheless amazing museum that will sure to leave you hungry for some chocolate after. This museum is especially popular among the younger ones as it will surely become their favorite place in all of Barcelona.

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Flyboard

An extreme watersport that has taken the world by storm, flyboarding is a literal high flying and heart pumping sport that will definitely excite all the adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts out there. This almost gravity-defying activity will propel you several feet in the air by the power from water jets, allowing you to feel just like a superhero. With the closest Flyboarding Center being less than half an hour away from the city center, this is certainly an activity to check out if you want to have an electrifying experience while you’re in Barcelona.

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Take a trip back in time and visit an ancient village

Step back in time and visit an old Spanish village, or at least a replica of it. Poble Espanyol is an open-aired museum that promises to bring you back centuries with replicas of characteristic houses from multiple regions across Spain like Aragon, Castile, the Basque Country, and Catalonia. Built in the year 1929, the 117 buildings that remain standing today in the Poble Espanyol represent the architectural achievements from Spain and is now home to several shops, restaurants, and bars. The Poble Espanyol is definitely a place that you have to visit at least once when you are in Barcelona.

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Visit a local’s home

There is no better way to gain deeper insights into Barcelona’s culture and history than to interact with its inhabitants and natives! With BonAppetour, you get to experience first hand how life would be like as a local through a one of a kind home dining experience. Get a taste of the most authentic food straight from a local’s kitchen and immerse yourself in an environment that no guidebook will ever be able to get you. From an amazing Tapas dinner in the heart of Barcelona to a seafood barbecue cookout with a beautiful view of the hills in Barcelona, there will certainly be a BonAppetour experience that you will absolutely fall in love with.

Try something more unconventional and exciting during your next trip to Barcelona and we are sure that you will be able to bring home more than just stereotypical souvenirs and photographs. If you would like to learn more about unique activities to do during your stay in Barcelona, check our other post on the top events that you have to attend while you are in the city!

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