APRIL 22,2010: Field Trip 4: El Raval

The fourth field trip that we went on allowed us to explore the narrow streets of El Raval. El Raval is located on the opposite side of Las Ramblas, yet the atmosphere feels quite different. This field trip was not the first time I entered this quaint area, but today I went into buildings I have not explored, and walked down streets I was unaware existed.

Prior to this field trip I was unaware of the large history behind this area of Barcelona City. It amazed me the renovations and hard work put into this area during the time of the Olympics of 92. Before the Olympics, this area located near the Barcelona port, consisted primarily of drug dealers and people in search of encountering prostitutes. Approximately 15 years ago, this area was quite different than it is today. Years ago, Las Ramblas acted as a border marking the end of the city. Any street existing beyond this point was not considered a true part of the city. Furthermore, buildings such as the new District Council acted as churches and monasteries along this same borderline. Other renovations throughout this area include a transformation in the architectural style. The buildings that once existed were more classic, meanwhile they now have a more modernized appeal. A great example of this renovation is the buildings surrounding Barcelona's CCCB. Luckily I had another field trip today and I had the opportunity to view an unbelievable art exhibit. The exhibit presented in the CCCB was based on industrial cities. I was truly 'wowed' by the photographs and structures presented within this exhibition. One image that stands out in my mind was a trio of three sculptures of a man in his pajamas who looked as if he was beaten. These sculptures were crafted in order to show the emotions the artist had with people who feel trapped within a city.

As we moved further down the streets of Raval, I noticed buildings I never knew existed. For example, a plaza with a huge art museum captivated my attention. I wish that I was not going home so soon and could attend the electronic concert we were informed about. In addition to the museum, I was aware that Barcelona had a large University within the city, yet I had never stepped foot on the campus. I was surprised to see how modern the school buildings are designed. Adjacent to the school grounds consisted of large groups of children, who I assume are student studying at the University. I feared the activities these boys engaged in as one after the next toppled over on their skate boards. I am sad to say that I never spend much time in El Raval other than the three field trips I took to this area with CEA. As I am sad that I never experienced the cute local bars and restaurants, I am thankful I had the opportunity to visit this site with class.

APRIL 15, 2010: La polución causada por el tráfico empeora en el área metropolitana

The contamination of the air in the area of Barcelona continues being above the levels that mark the European guidelines. The seen pollution is caused by the dioxide of nitrogen, which is said to be be linked directly to the traffic, and steadily increasing. This circumstance has confused the Departament of Medi Ambient, that directs Francesc Baltasar. The Generalitat had prompted does more than one year a reduction of the velocity from the cars to a maximum of 80 kilometers per hour, among others measures to reduce the contamination in the metropolitan area. For the first time in ten years, the level of contamination by the solid particles is situated under the allowed limits.

The last report on air quality had surprising results. The nitrogen dioxide levels in Barcelona surpass what is established by the EU. The nitrogen dioxide level has reached an average of 46 microgramos by cubic meter, that is to say, 4 units above the limit established by Brussels. Other concerns arise for Barcelona. The second metropolitan zone is situated just in the limit of the European demand, when the previous year does not surpass the threshold required. This has proven that the situation has only gotten worse and caused people to worry more. Nevertheless, there has been considerable improvements in the contamination by solid particles since 2007. In response to these results, suggested changes such as the objective to reduce the velocity of cars and other measures have been taken into account in order to improve the quality of air.

The secretary of Medi Ambient explained yesterday that the increment of the dioxide of nitrogen is a phenomenon that is being repeated in many other European cities as well. It has been reported that the main source of emission is the combustion of the vehicles with internal combustion engines. In order to gain access into Barcelona, the speed limit is 80km/hr, which is one of the measures the Government has taken into consideration in order to reduce the emissions.

Baltasar indicated that some studies aim at that the new generation of motor diésel are in the restriction of the majority of the emissions contaminants. In addition, it has been said that such reduction of the mobility in Catalonia seems to be a consequence of the fall of the economic activity. All causes indicates that the speed limit to 80 km/h would be able to be maintained, since the Govern relates this measure with the results obtained in the country of the road safety and the descent of the accident.

APRIL 19, 2010: La UE estima que sólo despegarán el 30% de los vuelos previstos

In Madrid, the European agency of management of air traffic and Eurocontrol has released updates regarding the impacts of the cloud of ash in the sky. This cloud of volcanic ash was caused by volcano Eyjafjalla in Iceland, which has continuously been erupting since Thursday. Only 30% of the 28,000 predicted flights will be going up in the air throughout the continental region.

Flight delays and cancellations have not only been seen in Spain, but throughout most of the European air space. Other affected regions include Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Netherlands, north of Italy, Poland, Rumania, Slovenia, Swiss, parts of Ukraine and United Kingdom.

Currently, it has been reported that 50% of the continental air space has not yet been affected by the cloud of ash. The south of Europe -including Portugal, Spain, parts of Italy and France, the area of the Balkans, Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey- as well as north parts of Europe are currently open to the civil traffic. On the other hand, the meteorology reports in Iceland have reported , that this volcano is responsible for throwing tons of ash to the atmosphere and causing the air chaos in Europe. Besides the airports, and airlines, thousands of millions of dollars have been lost due to the disturbance of air traffic. As of this morning, three companies -Lufthansa, British Airways and KLM- have carried out test flights through the affected area and have seen satisfactory results. Their results have proven that the coinciding ashes are not yet causing the considerable damaged to the motors of their aircrafts.

The Spanish airports total 1,517 flights that were cancelled during the and an additional 5,249 operations planned for today that were cancelled, as a result of the cloud of ashes produced by the Volcanic eruption in Iceland. In conclusion, the Cabinet of Transportation of the EU that will be holding a videoconference to evaluate the result of the volcanic cloud.

APRIL 19, 2010: El Plan de Infraestructuras prevé invertir más 25.000 millones hasta

In Barcelona, the Infrastructures Director Plan of 2009-2018 foresees to invest more than 25,200 million euro to help improve public transportation in the metropolitan area. The new mode of transport includes the connection of the trolley by the Diagonal and the construction of a railway line. Secretary for the Mobility of the Generalitat, Manel Nadal, has indicated that this investment includes more than the 4,000 million predicted in the Plan of Neighborhood.

The Authority of the Metropolitan Transportation (ATM) has finalized the editing of PDI 2009-2018. This allows for continuity through the period of 2001-2010 and includes the environmental considerations that have been taken into account before it can be approved. This new plan is predicated to improve the public transportation system of Barcelona, including the Metro, trolley, and other transportation systems. Nadan's plan includes the construction 270 new stations, 379 new trains, permitting service to 1.4 million passengers more each day. Furthermore, the trolley will be able to double its capacity of transportation each day when it connects Trambaix with the Trambesòs.

Some people have criticized the construction of this trolley and have expressed their concerns. Other PDI works include the extension of the networlk to Port Badalona and Sant Adria of Besos. Other new metro lines include the arrival of the L3 line, which will also be responsible for uniting many new areas. In conclusion. the PDI predicts an investment of more then 12,500 million euros, 3939 million in modernizing infrastructure, 8,267 more in actions in response to enlarging the network of public transportation in Barcelona's Plan of Neighborhood.

Currently, the city is waiting for the document to be approved. Once it is approved Next, it will be submitted to public information, so that the administrations, private and companies contribute the opportune considerations and the plan be approved with the maximum possible consensus.

APRIL 18, 2010: Mika inunda el Palau Sant Jordi de su contagioso pop efervescente

Lebanese singer and composer, Mika arrived in Barcelona this week. Doing gala of a good humor, he arrived in Barcelona from Paris in a taxi due to the cancellation of flights all over Europe. Mika has flooded the Palau Sant Jordi of Barcelona with never ending pop music and catchy rhythms with its last work. This boy is considered " the boy who knew too much," and officially has close to 6,000 followers. Mika, whose real name is Michael Holbrook Penniman Jr, has interpreted songs in his new album Rain and previous albums where he has sold close to six million copies. Tomorrow, on April 19, Mike can also be seen in the sports center of Madrid, where he will be performing another concert. His concerts include a full repertoire of pop dance, colorful ballads, and other songs that show off his vide array of vocal talents.

As Mike has gotten older, there has been a change in his emotions as he peaks in adolescence. This new emergence includes themes that are more dark and angry, and other songs that are more romantic than what he has shown in the past. In order to make his performances more enjoyable, he is often accompanied by a piano. His broad array of music has broadened his scope of fans, with follower of all changes including young children. The artist has invented a history, in which dragons, inflatable dummies and disguises have accompanied the numbers of the artist, always willing to surprise their followers. He is only 26 years old and found many new themes that have worked to improve his career.

APRIL 12, 2010: Europa se une a la jornada de luto por la tragedia de Polonia

A tragic plane crash carrying members of Poland's government leaves many behind to mourn the death of those who's lives were taken. Poland Embassy decreed an official day of mourning on April 17 at 5:30 in order to bring the country together during a time of crisis. This ceremony will be held as a funeral mass in honor of the dead in the Parish. Members who will always be remembered include the President of Poland.

In Brussels, two minutes of silence will be kept before each one of the meetings that will be held throughout the day. The common Executive anticipates to have a more extensive gesture of solidarity with Poland this Wednesday. This gesture will include the gathering of the school of commissioners of the CE for the first time after the holidays of Holy Week.

The president of the Commission, José Manuel Durao Barroso, emphasized this Saturday the "pro-european commitment" of Kaczynski and assured that was a "patriotic Polish", but that at the same time felt "a strong commitment with the European Union and its values of liberty and solidarity". The High Representative for the Union Europe, Catherine Ashton, expressed its "solidarity" with the families of the victims of the plane crash in which has deceased the presiden.

Since the European Parliament, their president, along with the death of many others is considered an "unimaginable catastrophe" and of "indescribable tragedy". In history, a mass death of so many members of a democratic party have never been seen in Europe before this day. Other countries such as Spain have also organized an official time of mourning dedicated to those who died. They will display the national flag, which can be found in all public buildings and Armada ships. The Embassy of Poland has opened a book of condolences that will be at the disposal of the people interested to share their thoughts as well.

APRIL 12, 2010: Fun in the Sun

Barcelona's beauty is enhanced by the beaches and warm weather the city has to offer. As the weather continues to get warmer I find that I have taken the time to enjoy the beaches that line this coast of this city. The first time that I walked down to Port Olympic, my eyes were immediately drawn to the deep blue sea. The palm trees put a smile on my face instantly and I couldn't wait to dig my toes into the hot sand. Whenever I am feeling stressed or want to take the time to relax, my first instinct is to walk along the beach. The sound of the crashing waves accompanied by the cool breeze always manage to help me.

The past few weeks the weather has been magnificent. Today when I went down to the beach I relaxed in the sand for almost four hours. To my surprise, there was even a woman who was giving massages so I took the time to treat myself to a massage as well. Sundays are normally a leisurely day and the beach was so crowded. I was excited to see that a volley ball net was set up on the beach and my friends and I played against another group of girls and to our surprise we actually won! The beaches here are different from the beaches that we have back at home. It is uncommon for men and women in the United States to be as comfortable walking around without clothes on, which does not appear to be a concern for the local people here. I can honestly say that the ratio of women with and without tops on was equivalent. The openness and acceptance of nudity in Barcelona is one of the main differences that I notice between Barcelona and back home.

While it is unusual for me to see naked bodies loathing in the sun, nothing can stop me from returning to the Barcelona beaches. Whether I am reading for school, sunbathing, or playing a sport with a friend, I always find the beach to be the highlight of my week. I cannot deny that I love to soak in the sun, but the beaches here highlight the city. Each time I have a visitor in town I feel it is essential to show them the unique beaches of Barcelona. Over time, I have even grown to love and enjoy the high end restaurant and clubs located on the beach front as well. The beaches here allow me to feel at home and have made me love this city even more!

APRIL 10, 2010 : Tappas Tappas Tappas !

Prior to living in Spain I had never gone to eat at a restaurant that serves tappas. However, alot has changed after eating at Ciutat Comtal. Ciutat Comtal is located on Rambla Catalunya and is now my favorite restaurant to eat in the entire city. Tappas allow you to have a small taste of any food that you desire to have on the menu, rather than selecting one main course, you have the chance to explore with a variety of different food options depending on the mood you are in. When you first enter into Ciutat, the choices of tappas are neatly displayed along a bar. Customers have the opportunity to be seated at a table or you can sit at the bar and enjoy your food their as well. The range of food that is offered is unlike anything I have ever seen. Each time I return back to Ciutat I look forward to tasting something new they have to offer. Some of the small plates I choose to order include: mini hamburgers, shrimp skewers, patatas bravas, tomato bread and many more. The food they serve is always fresh and decoratively prepared. I really enjoy how they accompany many of their plates with a small piece of toasted bread. Not only does this bread enhance the visual presentation of the food, but it perfects the taste of their plates too. Tappas allow you to eat many different types of foods during one sitting and I find that I do not over endulge myself in food, but leave my meals satisfied. I recommend this restaurant to many students who study abroad because the food is both tasty and affordable. This restaurant is a part of a small chain of restaurants that are located throughout the city. The two other sister restaurants I have gone too are called La Flauta and Cerveceria Catalana. All three of these restaurants serve the same choices of tappas, but Flauta and Cerveceria incorporated larger main courses into their menu.

MARCH 23, 2010 : Paella round two

After living in Barcelona for three months, I am embarrassed to say that I have not experimented with Catalan or Spanish food as much as I should. I constantly find myself returning to the same restaurants when I am craving a taste of the local cuisine rather than taking the opportunity to explore somewhere new. Even though I have been living here for quite some time, my diet is still more limited than the average person. La Fonda is a restaurant that I now have grown to love and enjoy. Not only do they serve one of the best paella I have ever tasted, the ambiance is magnificent. La Fonda is located on the boardwalk of Port Olympic. It is not everyday that you have the opportunity to eat your food in a restaurant that is located right next to a marina, and don't let me forget the incredible view. The location of this restaurant is perfect, yet there are other factors that draw me in as well. This restaurant is set up in a large white tent. It has the feeling as if you are sitting outside, but the tent is very comfortable and looks like it could be indoor as well.

Other than the comfortable atmosphere there were many other things I enjoyed about this Catalan food experience. When I ate my first meal at La Fonda I was surprised to see how different the Paella tasted than the previous ones I have tried. This Paella dish seemed less authentic than I was used to. While for my main course I stuck with my original chicken Paella dish, there were other foods that I experimented with. Accompanying my Paella, we ordered a a plate of black rice. I was very skeptical and taken back by the harsh appearance of this dish. It is not common for me to experiment with new foods, especially one that looks as little appetizing as this one. After this meal I realized that Black rice will not be incorporated into my daily diet, however, I am glad that I tried something new and unusual. During this meal I also experimented with other seafood dishes that I normally would not have selected to eat back at home. This experience was different for me, but the food at this restaurant was outstanding.

MARCH 14, 2010: FC Barcelona vs. Valenica

Before coming to live in Barcelona I was always told that I could not live here for four months without attending one of the Barcelona's incredible soccer games. Not only are thes games a great cultural experience, but Barcelona's team is one of the best in the world. I cannot forget the feeling I got when it was time for me to go and experience my first game. My jaw dropped when I first entered into the futbol stadium. I had already visited the stadium with my Sport and Culture class, yet this time it was different. The stands were filled and overflowing with screaming and cheering fans. When I first arrived at the stadium, other than the large crowd of people I began to notice that the spectators who watch the games look different than the sports fans I have seen in the United States. Rather than wearing a sports jersey, many of the fans were sporting other FC Barcelona apparel such as scarves tied loosely around their neck. After making this quick observation, I found my way to my seats. I feel very lucky that my first opportunity to attend a Barcelona futbol game I had the privilege to sit in the fourth row. The energy from the fans resonated into the players and I was close enough to enjoy the experience up close and personal.

The game that I went to see was FC Barcelona vs. Valencia. The game started off slow and I began to worry that I was not going to have the opportunity to see either team score a goal. Before I spoke too soon Messi scored his first goal. The stands went crazy and it was unlike anything I had ever experienced. The pride of the Barcelona soccer fans filled the entire stadium as people stood up from their seats waiving their arms in the air. Before the fans had time to stop and take a seat, Messi scored two goals immediately following his first. I thought that it was very cool to see many people holding up the Catalan flag in support of their team, while also expressing their proudness of being from Catalonia. From what I have learned throughout my time abroad, I now have a better understanding of the saying " mes que un club." FC Barcelona allows the Catalan people to have the chance to express themselves and enjoy the way in which they differentiate from the rest of Spain. After enjoying this game I look forward to hearing and following the teams history more carefully as they bring themselves closer to becoming Champions. My expectations were high, but my experience at this soccer game was one that I can never forget.

FEBRUARY 15, 2010: Caixa Forum

After visiting many different places in the city, one building that grabbed my attention was Caixa Forum. When I say that it captured my attention, I am not focusing solely on the astounding architecture of this old factory, however, the galleries and art exhibits found within the museum. The exhibit that really impacted me was a special exhibit that is not always found within the museum. The photographer whose photos were displayed choose to take pictures of people suffering from world travesties. These grotesque, yet unbelievable images touched each person who was viewing the exhibit. Some photographs stirred up emotional discomfort and were hard to physically look at. Pictures displayed included portraits of women who suffered from acid in Palestine. Men who were unhappy with the way these women acted, or refused to date them would throw acid across these victims. The damage to their skin and bodies was nearly impossible to fix. Other images included war victims, however, all of these photos presented viewers with a deep emotional connection.

While this exhibit was depressing, there were other aspects of the museum that were quite unbelievable. I worked my way down into one of the cultural exhibits that attracted my attention with a beaming lit up arrow made of small light-bulbs. While this piece of art lured me in, my favorite piece of art was an enormous sculpture. After pondering over how this sculpture was so erect, I became aware that this piece of art was in fact stockings filled with small foam pellets. It was incredible and entirely unique. Other than the fantastic art exhibits, there were other aspects of the museum I enjoyed as well. The terrace of this building is truly amazing. The rooftop patio allows you to experience the city from a new angle I have not seen before. My trip to Caixa Forum was enjoyable for many reasons and I would recommend many people to take the time to experience all it has to offer.

2010: BARCELONA NIGHT LIFE

As many people are aware of, students studying abroad in Barcelona always manage to get themselves connected to the one and only Kike to help them determine their plans each night. The nightlife in Barcelona is unlike anything I have experienced. First, the aspect of the nightlife that I enjoy most is the location of many of the cities largest nightclubs. For example, Opium, Shoko, and Catwalk are three clubs located in one of the most beautiful locations. I feel lucky to have the opportunity to attend a club that is located right on the beach where you can enjoy the peacefulness of the ocean. Opium happens to be one of my favorite clubs here. I really enjoy going to Opium because of its large size that allows the club to not feel too overcrowded. While these 3 clubs may be located in a special place, there are other parts of the nightlife in Barcelona that captivate my attention.

Another bar that I find very unique to the city is Dow Jones. This bar has drink prices that fluctuate in respect with the number of people ordering a drink. If a drink is in high demand the price fearfully increases, while others that are not as desirable decrease in their value. As the night progresses, bar lovers anticipate the event of a stock market crash. As the red lights beam and the sirens fire, the prices of the drinks fall and become more affordable. While the drink prices seem reasonable, I am sure there are other local bars where we could receive a drink for a much better price. This city offers a wide variety of nightlife. This small theme bar exists, while other larger overcrowded clubs such as Razzmataz exist as well. Entering into this club was extremely overwhelming. The location was easy because the cost of the cab was cheaper than most other places, however, it was nearly impossible to locate any of my friends. I found myself searching for a needle in a haystack while I was pushed and shoved by many intoxicated people. This club is endless, yet entertaining. I find that the places I enjoy most are those that are filled with many people from the CEA program. It is not that I do not like going out and experiencing the local scene, but I love to be where my friends are. Other unique bars include Chupitos wild fire and Viking shots and Pippermans that serve drinks large enough to swim in.

I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to experience the nightlife here in Barcelona. People from all over the world are envious of the spectacular clubs this city has to offer. I am surprised by the early morning hours people choose to stay out here as a result of the late start the city has. In general, there is a diversity in the types of bars and clubs the city offers and that is something I enjoy. No matter what type of mood I am in there is always a place for me to go.

FEBRUARY 23, 2010: Field Trip 3- Borne Rubiera

Hearing that we were going to be going on another field trip back to a new area surrounding the Cathedral was great news. Having been quite familiar with these streets after already visiting them once increased my expectations about what I was now going to encounter when we return to the small streets around the Cathedral.

After going on this field trip I now feel like I have a much better understanding of the area surround Via Laietana. The streets that we adventured down allowed us to experience another division of the city. Prof. Xavi had mentioned that the city is divided into four parts, Political, Merchants, the Cathedral, and the Arts. Knowing about the different divisions that existed throughout the city helps paint a better picture and reasoning for what exists. Other than the iron and architecture that always draws my attention in these small alleys, there was a lot of information that we learned that attracted my attention as well. For example, I was not aware of some of the many struggles women faced when living in this city. I could not imagine having to transport large laundry loads to and from the fountain area. This fun fact increased my appreciation for a washing machine because I could not imagine having to perform the labor these women once did.

One of the areas we explored consisted of smaller apartments. I was interested to hear that many poor people were once placed in this location of the city and landlords had the ability to kick older men and women out who were not capable of paying rent. Other interesting facts that captured my attention was the thought of people transporting furniture through these narrow buildings, often forcing families to construct their bedroom sets once they entered into their bedrooms. Upon entering into this area, my first reaction was that the air did not smell as fresh and clean as other locations within the city. Distracted by the smell, we soon found out that this area culminated more pollution due to the construction of the buildings and closeness of the buildings that prevent air from escaping more easily.

As the field trip progressed, I was shocked to see how fast we walked to the area of barceloneta. I never knew that this metro stop and surrounding area was able to be approached on foot and I am glad to see that it is as easy to get to walking as it is to take the metro. This area was breathtaking and I love being close to the water, which is one of the aspects of the city I enjoy the most. Furthermore, I wish that I enjoyed seafood so I could experience the “orgasmic” seafood this city has to offer and that we were told about. If I am feeling experimental one day, I will make sure that I taste the food located in the secret restaurant we were told of.

FEBRUARY 16, 2010: Field Trip Two- Cathedral, Gothic Quarters, Jewish Area, etc.

The second field trip that we went on gave the class the opportunity to explore the area surrounding the Cathedral. Prior to this field trip, I have not had the opportunity to visit the Cathedral, or the small back alleys located near by. The class met outside on the steps of the Cathedral before continuing on with their walking tour. Little did some know, if you arrived late to the field trip, it would be a maze to find the class as we adventured down the streets located behind and near the Cathedral.

At first I was disappointed that we did not have the chance to go inside and explore the Cathedral, but little did I know I was about to experience a new part of the city I was not aware of. I cannot forget my immediate reaction of the design of the streets. The area around this massive building is comprised of small-narrow streets not wide enough for a car to drive down. Not only did I enjoy the privacy each street had to offer, but I enjoy the cobble stones and uniqueness of each street. Some streets were enhanced by decorative graffiti and “artwork” that Xavi drew more attention to. Passing down these narrow alleys also gave us the opportunity to observe the Cathedral from a different angle. The side of the building is amazing and I love the sculptures that are attached to the building. As this trip progressed, we soon found ourselves in the center of Plaza Jaume. The energy here was quite amazing. Small children were running around preparing for the Carnival that was soon to come. The voice of small children was accompanied by a performance of a Magician occurring in the Plaza as well. While I was distracted by the many activities going on within this Plaza, I didn’t fail to take note of the other Barcelona masterpieces such as the Capitol building.

While Plaza Jaume was enjoyable to see, my favorite part of this field trip was the Jewish area. The Jewish Quarters of the city was a place that I was always hoping to visit, however, I struggled to find them on my own. Having come from a Jewish family, these streets have more of an importance to me, and I am glad that I can relate a part of myself to the city. I was interested to learn and hear the relationship that people sharing my same religious background have impacted the city in many ways such as business. Similar to the history I am aware of, it is not a surprise to here that Jewish people from Barcelona suffered similar struggles to Jews in other parts of the world.

FEBRUARY 16, 2010: Carnival at Sitges

Having the opportunity to experience and participate in Barcelona’s Carnival was a huge privilege as part of my study abroad experience. Before departing on the bus to Sitges, I had minimal expectations about what I was about to encounter. I was aware from both peers and teachers that the beautiful beach town of Sitges gets filled with people parading in costumes and the streets are overwhelmed with floats and people, yet I was unaware of how many people become involved in this parade.

My friends and me were skeptical about what to wear to Carnival. We knew that people wore costumes, however, I was unsure if people dressed similarly to the way we did for Halloween in the United States. Rather than dressing up in an extravagant costume from the Party store located on Las Ramblas, we decided to play it safe, dressing in bright colors with decorative makeup and hair pieces. The getting ready process is always fun and exciting, but the best was yet to come. 9pm rolled around and it was time for the buses to depart from Plaza Espana. Students dressed in costumes ranging from devils to cowboys to others trying to be Michael Jackson were off to the small town of Sitges located 30 minutes outside the city.

My favorite part of the night was the rush down to the parade from the location where the buses dropped us off. I was amazed to see the number of people filling the streets and the happiness and excitement that filled each persons face. The music was playing, the churro stands were packed and it was almost time for the parade to start. Luckily, my parents were in town visiting for Carnival and they also had the opportunity to experience this tradition as well. I was intrigued by the hard work that was put into making each float, and the costumes that accompanied the floats as well. I had no idea that this many people participated in the parade. Each time a float passed; there was at least 10 or 15 more trailing behind them. It was never ending and I loved every minute of it. The float that attracted my attention the most was a skit of a wedding and there was a bride and groom that were station on the front of the float. This float was decorated with extreme detail, but I loved the flowers the people at the bottom of the float were handing out. This float was not only one that caught my attention by its visual appearance, yet it was playing music that I enjoy to listen. When this float passes, the people in the streets went wild, singing and dancing until the float was completely out of sight.

This Carnival experience was one of amazement to me and I would recommend any student who studied in Barcelona to make their way to Sitges in following years. It isn’t everyday that you get to listen to music and hang out on the beach in costume while floats and people parade in the streets. I am so happy that my parents were here to see this unbelievable tradition that goes on in Barcelona and other cities in Europe as well.

FEBRUARY 3, 2010: Caracoles , The Real Paella Experience

Caracoles, one of my new favorite restaurants in Barcelona was recommended to me by a local friend living here in the city. When I first heard about this restaurant I was told that it was not the most luxurious restaurant in the city, but its where the Kings and Queens would go to eat when they wanted to try the world’s best paella.

I have always considered myself a picky eater, one not interested in experimenting with food, especially seafood that still had a head and feet still attached. Little did I know, this restaurant displayed all of their meat right out in the window of their restaurant. My stomach began to churn at the sight of roasting chicken in the window, however, I knew that I had to taste the best Paella the city had to offer. The restaurant was packed and people were bulging out of the restaurant in all directions. The overwhelming scent of fresh cooked food and flavor rushes at you the second you venture inside the restaurant. It was time to order and I knew I had to be a little more selective than the other people joining me for dinner. The entire group ordered the typical seafood Paella consisting of names of fish I had never ever heard of, while I ordered the safety only chicken Paella.

This restaurant had an ambiance that drew me in right away. I had been living in Barcelona for a few weeks now, but I had never been in restaurant that had people playing and singing to Spanish music. I loved the men walking around to each table, dressed in costume and strumming to a local song on their guitar. I was so distracted by the men singing and dancing that I failed to notice a Paella plate that can fit my whole body in it. I was shocked to see the amount of rice and food that this restaurant just brought over to our table. Not only was the presentation of the food incredible, but this Paella experience was very special to me. The rice and flavor was cooked to perfection and I couldn’t have been happier with the way my food tasted. I was surprised that the chicken had some bones left in it, but that didn’t stop me from digging in.

I believe that Caracoles is a very special restaurant found in the city of Barcelona, and one that I probably would not have wandered into on my own. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone looking to enjoy the local cuisine the city has to offer and an ambiance that fits the food as well. I will never forget my first hand experience of trying Paella- the local food dish of Barcelona, especially from a restaurant that I enjoyed as much as Caracoles.

FEBRUARY 10, 2010: The Influence of Gaudi

The exquisite architecture found within the city of Barcelona sheds light on appreciation for art I didn’t know I had. Whether on a CEA bus tour, personal trips, or in class field experiences, I have been exposed to many of Gaudis masterpieces.

It was my first day in Barcelona, suffering from extreme jet leg until I entered in Park Guell. Amazed by the incorporation of nature within each statue or building, the feeling of being tired was no longer a concern of mine. I could not believe the intricate details and time that was put into creating each and every inch of the park. For instance, the colored pieces of glass found on statues such as the dragon/salamander is unlike anything I have ever seen before. The curving bench in the park area is not only extremely detailed, the shape of the bench catches my attention as well. The curving edges provide a comfortable environment for groups of people to have a conversation, observe the many vendors, or even appreciate the gorgeous view overlooking the entire city. Every inch of the park become more interesting and amazing as you traveled deeper inside. Other aspects of the park that I enjoyed were the small details and craftsmanship that was placed into creating the ceilings of the buildings; for Example, the broken up colored pieces that are found all throughout the park. His placement is extremely technical and I enjoy the detailing of creating small flowers and simply organizing the pieces along fountains and buildings.

I am happy to say that I appreciate the tour guides assistance in pointing out the many details I could have overlooked if I went to this park on my own. Normally it is not my first instinct to observe the details that appear on the ceilings. In addition, I appreciate the explanations the tour guide provided as we traveled throughout the park. Understanding Gaudis deep connection with nature helped me better understand his reasoning behind creating some of his amazing work.

I have only visited this park one time, however, I plan to bring my family and friends back there when they come and visit Barcelona. I am confident that anyone who visits Park Guell will be smitten by his intricate details and the once in a lifetime views from various park locations. I would not be surprised if I noticed more details and feel in love with the park more and more each time I go back there. After walking and touring through Park Guell I also have a greater interest in going to see other buildings and monuments that Gaudi created here in Barcelona. His style of art is unlike anything I have ever seen before and I love the colors he provides and the styles of art he uses.

FEBRUARY 9, 2010: The Roman Barcino Field Trip

The Roman Barcino was the very first museum that I had the opportunity to experience upon my four month journey living in Barcelona. Walking off the yellow line at metro stop Jaume I, I was anxious and excited to see what the museums in Barcelona had to offer me, and the differences that were presented to me in comparison to the museums I have visited in the United States. Prior to entering into the museum itself, I was immediately blown away by the exterior of the building and the Gothic area of the city. Friends had always mentioned that a Gothic part of the city existed, however, I was never aware of the history that lied beneath the grounds of the city.

I couldn’t wait to enter the museum and begin to learn more about the city where I was now living in. I remember becoming interested immediately after entering into the museum, and warming up to my environment after watching the video clips about the history of the city and the Roman Empire. Little did I know I was about to enter and elevator that brought us back in time and into the literal remains of what was left of the Roman heritage here in Barcelona. I had no idea that these remains existed beneath the streets I had walked down several times in search of food or just to look around. I was amazed how well preserved the rocks were and could picture what the people of the times actually experienced. Prof. Xavi’s explanations allowed the ruins to become into reality and paint a picture of what life was like. Soon a clear vision of flowing water, pools, and even places to make wine were enscripted in my thoughts.

As much as I loved walking through the ruins, I really enjoyed the detailed explanation of the Roman dumus. After looking at the house structure and the mosaic tiles, I had a clear understanding of what life was like for the elite groups of the time period. I was fascinated by the accurate depiction of what these villas looked like and understood many of the differences between my life and theirs’. I am currently an Environmental Science major and I take notice of being environmentally sustainable and was unaware of how ecologically advanced people were. For instance, the shape of the rooftops and collection of rainwater to be used for other purposes amazed me that water conservation was taken into consideration. I am aware that resources were not as easy to come about, but I was never aware of the many ways that water and other resources were conserved. Prior to this field trip, I was unaware about the history of Barcelona and the sequence of the events in the city. Who knew that another civilization was buried beneath the city.

Visiting this museum was a very positive experience, leaving me excited to visit other museums and landmarks that exist in the city of Barcelona, and I look forward to going back to the Roman quarters with class on Thursday, and exploring them on my own as well.