A short break to Barcelona

Karen and I took a 4-night break to Barcelona in December. It was so rewarding; warm sunshine, blue skies, fantastic culture and a café lifestyle but without the crowds. Flying from Southend made it even more enjoyable.

Staying at a traditional 4* hotel The Rivoli on the “Ramblas” our hotel was just a short walk from the Plaza de Catalunya so it was beautifully central. The Ramblas leads to the beach and marina. We fortunately had a suite on the top floor with a balcony overlooking the Ramblas, courtesy of the hotel being aware it was our anniversary and me making them aware I was a travel consultant. I will always advise the hotel of any special celebrations for me or my clients, sometimes it makes a difference, it certainly did here!

We took in great shopping, fantastic food and plenty of culture. We visited the world-famous Gaudi’s, La Sagrada Familia over 130 years being built and still going, it’s a UNESCO Heritage Site as well.

Oddly enough it only recently received its official building permit! We also visited the famous architects Casa Mila exhibition centre. There really is great scope in the Catalan capital. A visit to the “Camp Nou” stadium home of legendry football club FC Barcelona is also a popular tour however being our anniversary I wisely stuck to the shops, tapas and culture!