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Spain

Writer's picture: Clara HollemanClara Holleman

Overall, it’s leisurely meals, late nights, grand architecture, contemporary art and stunning beachfronts.


Where I went:

Barcelona (Barcelona Princess Hotel)

Madrid (Palace Hotel)

Valencia (Apartment rented through Air BnB)

What I wore:


During my winter and spring visits, I opted for skinny jeans, cozy sweaters and tall boots, with a few prints and hats mixed in for contrast. Loads of Zara. During the summer, I wore casual beach outfits: tank tops, shorts, skirts and sandals. A tan and beach hair are the perfect accessories.

What I did:

Barcelona

Barcelona is a city of contrast: rich history juxtaposed against contemporary art and architecture (Gaudi, Picasso); a bustling urban center surrounded by sandy beaches and the Catalan countryside. Some of my favorite places to visit in Barcelona are Park Guell for a day hike and stunning views of the city, La Sagrada Familia for a rejuvenation of the spirit, La Boqueria to fill my senses (and stomach) with a wide variety of Spanish delicacies, and Passeig de Gracia for luxury designer window shopping. Spain is also home to Zara, one of my favorite retail chains for contemporary classics!


Beyond the beauty of Barcelona, I also explored the Pyrenees by Segway and hiked through the 12th century village of Rupit. Stunning scenery and a nice way to work off the culinary indulgences!





And I made time for plenty of active fun . . . a pickup game of basketball at a local playground, soccer on the beach, and nighttime bungee jumping.





Although at the end of it all, it was the planned (FC Barcelona game) and impromptu (Circ Raluy) adventures that created the indelible memories!

Here I am in the stands at Camp Nou Stadium watching Messi score during his 500th game with FC Barcelona.


Madrid

Madrid has been a layover city for me. I’ve passed through the city on my travels to Barcelona, Valencia and Marrakech. I always make the point to leave the airport. And I am never disappointed. Whether it’s visiting the Plaza Mayor Christmas market and attending Christmas Mass at Basilica de San Francisco El Grande in December...



Or wandering through the art of the Museo Nacional del Prado and the ancient Templo de Debod.


I always look forward to my layover dates with Madrid. 



Valencia

Valencia will always have a special place in my heart because it represents a lot of firsts...the first time I traveled internationally on my own...the first time I rented an Air BnB apartment with someone I’d never met...the first time I performed on an international stage. Everything about Valencia is magical! It’s a city of food and music and life!



What I ate/drank:


In Madrid, I highly recommend the Opera Brunch at the Palace Hotel. The food is delicious and plentiful, and the opera is spine-tingling. I felt transported to another place and time.




In the coastal cities of Barcelona and Valencia, I ate my body weight in paella, tapas and fresh seafood! La Boqueria market and La Clara in Barcelona were amazing! The legal drinking age in Spain is 18, and sangria is a refreshing beach cocktail that is poured freely at outdoor beach cafes. Salud!

Social media musts:

The modern and contemporary architecture of Spain provides some stunning photos opportunities. From Templo de Debod in Madrid (sunset photos are a must!) and the Gaudi sites of Barcelona (Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia), but I also like the simplicity of buildings as a backdrop of a fun night with friends. Get creative and dance!


And my favorite part about Spain was open mic nights with this amazing international group of musicians. (Berklee College of Music - Valencia, Spain)

A Few Songs From My Travel Playlist From Spain:


Hips Don't Lie - Shakira ft. Wyclef Jean

On The Floor - Jennifer Lawrence and Pitbull

Bailando - Enrique Inglesias

Someone New - Hoizer

Somebody To Love - Queen

Daniel - Elton John

Vienna - Billy Joel

Let's Dance - David Bowie

Only Wanna Be With You - Sam Henshaww

I Wanna Be Your Lover - Prince

New Light - John Mayer

Carry That Weight - The Beatles

Billie Jean - Michael Jackson




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