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.