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.