La Sagrada Familia

One hundred and thirty years in the making, La Sagrada Familia remains Antoni Gaudí’s unequivocal, and incomplete, masterpiece. Gaudí began work on the basilica in 1883 and continued to oversee the project until his death in 1926. However, by the time of his death, La Sagrada Familia was only a quarter of the way completed. In fact, it wasn’t until 2010 that the gargantuan structure passed the half-way point in construction. Though still unfinished, the iconic cathedral easily deserves its spot at the top of our list of Barcelona’s highlights. From its extraordinary façade to its intricate interior, La Sagrada Familia is sure to impress even the most casual architectural enthusiast.

Travel Tip: As you enter the basilica, be sure to look up. The ceiling of La Sagrada Familia offers some of the most impressive architectural gems of the entire structure.

Park Guell

Only two miles away, perched atop a hill overlooking the Catalonian capital is Gaudí’s much more playful, Park Guell. The site was initially intended to be a residential community, but the concept was unsuccessful. Now, the stylish gardens, ornate terraces and winding walkways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site blend themselves into the hillside, offering a vibrant juxtaposition between nature and art. Park Guell is a great spot to spend an afternoon strolling and unwinding just outside the heart of the city.

Travel Tip: Take your time enjoying the mosaics like “el drac” at the entrance of the gardens, but leave enough time to walk all the way to the top of the park’s hill. You’ll be treated to an excellent view of Barcelona.

La Rambla

Smack dab in the middle of downtown Barcelona is La Rambla, a pedestrian only, tree-lined boulevard filled with shops, cafes, street performers and a fantastic outdoor market. A perfect spot for people-watching, the city’s main thoroughfare is not only filled with walkers and wayfarers, but it’s also Europe’s mecca for human statues. You’ll see plenty as you make your way along the traffic-free mall, but some are better than others, so don’t spend too much time watching a mediocre mime.

Travel Tip: La Rambla can be crowded at peak hours. To get a nice impression of the setting without the crowds, you might visit earlier in the morning to enjoy the boulevard as the city wakes up.

La Boqueria

Among the numerous vendors on La Rambla you’ll see your share of touristy wares. However there are a few spots that are well-worth checking out.  At the top of that list is La Boqueria, a large outdoor market packed with fruits, vegetables and other local treats. Grab a few things to enjoy later, or to snack on while you explore

Travel Tip: There’s more than produce at La Boqueria. You’ll find fish, meat and local pastries there, too. If you’ve got the time, head to La Boqueria early, find some fresh ingredients and spend the day preparing a Catalonian feast.

Barri Gòtic

Just off of La Rambla, Barcelona’s Barri Gòtic, or Gothic Quarter, feels almost like an outdoor museum. The most famous attraction in the area is the Barcelona Cathedral, but wandering around the countless medieval buildings in the quarter can be just as impressive. If the mazes of narrow, cobblestoned streets don’t make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, you’ll at least feel like you’ve stumbled into another city.

Travel Tip: Cafes and restaurants in this quarter can be a bit more expensive than other spots in the city, but the amazing setting makes an afternoon coffee or evening tapas well-worth a couple extra Euros.

Picasso Museum

Pablo Picasso spent several years living in the Barri Gòtic before leaving for France. After being properly inspired by the quarter yourself, head to the Picasso Museum to see if you can spot any of the neighborhood’s influence on the famous artist’s work. The museum holds one of the largest Picasso collections in the world and focuses mainly on his earlier works, many of which he developed during his time in the city.

Travel Tip: The museum is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm and is closed on Mondays. Plan accordingly to visit Barcelona’s most popular museum.

Porto Olímpico

Now that you’ve become well acquainted with Old Barcelona, check out a bit of New Barcelona. The Port Olímpic section of the city was, at one time, rundown and largely abandoned. However, prior to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics the area was transformed into a sleek and modern, oceanfront neighborhood. Easily noticeable due to two large beachfront towers, the Porto Olímpico’s restaurants and nightclubs light up at night, but the promenade is also a nice spot to walk or bike along during the day.

Travel Tip: Port Olímpic is also where you’ll find Barcelona’s expansive beaches.   

La Pedrera

If you’re after a bit more Gaudí during your stay in Barcelona, then you’re in luck. The city is full of his architectural influence and there are two more of his crowning achievements you have to see while you’re there. La Pedrera is a particularly fascinating building with its asymmetrical open-air atrium and on its roof, ventilation towers that can only be described as otherworldly. But perhaps the most captivating feature of the building is its undulating façade, making the building look as though it’s moving at all times. La Pedrera was the architect’s last project before completely devoting himself to La Sagrada Familia. You’ll see for yourself that he clearly ended on a high note.

Travel Tip: La Pedrera is open for display to the public. You can tour the roof, an attic with models of other Gaudí works and you can even weave your way around a furnished apartment inside the building.

Casa Batllo

In Gaudí’s, Casa Batllo, the most prominent features of Park Guell have made their way into the heart of the city. From the vibrant mosaics dancing about the exterior to the scaly, dragon-like rooftop, all of the color and whimsy of Park Guell is well-represented in the downtown building. As you pass by the Casa Batllo you’ll almost certainly be drawn in by the structure’s mask-like balconies that appear to be looking down at you.

Travel Tip: For an added treat, tour the interior. Each room is designed with a different theme in mind.  

Montserrat

Balance your exploration of one of Spain’s liveliest urban hubs with a peaceful and awe-inspiring visit to Montserrat. Just 30 miles outside of the city, the mountain-top monastery is a half-day trip you won’t want to pass up while traveling in Catalonia. If you thought the view from Park Guell was something, then you’ll be thrilled by the vistas that Montserrat has to offer, especially on the cable car ascent to the pinnacle.

Travel Tip: Soaring at over 4,000 feet, Montserrat is one of the highest points in Catalonia, but don’t worry. You can spare your legs by getting there via a train from Barcelona and a cable car to the top.

Enjoy two nights in this excellent city, staying at 4-star Barcelona Hotel as an added extension to your Spain Tour with VBT.

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Simply set your eyes upon the varied architecture of Seville and you’ll realize that this is a place where many cultures and ethnicities have made their homes – some peacefully, and others tumultuously – but each has left its mark upon the Andalusían capital. The Moorish, Torre del Oro, which today is a naval museum, was originally constructed in the 13th century as a prison and watchtower by the Berber people that controlled the region at that time. Its location on the water makes it a perfect spot for observation. Though plans were made to demolish the ancient structure, its historical appeal won out, and it remains intact, where it was built almost 800 years ago.

As new peoples gained power over Seville, they simply adapted their predecessors’ monuments, structures and homes to suit their own needs. Move inland from the Guadalquivir river and head to the Plaza del Triunfo to see a magnificent example of Seville’s unique approach to construction. Seville Cathedral was originally built as a mosque in the late 13th century. After years of wear and changes in rule over Seville, the site was eventually added to, and transformed into a Christian cathedral. The massive structure was completed in the 1500s and still stands as the third largest church in the world. Curiously, it is also the site where Christopher Columbus is buried.

Before leaving the area, you may want to explore the beautiful Alcazar, an old Moorish palace. The Alcazar has a similar history to that of Plaza del Triunfo and even if not for the impressive palace itself, its beautiful gardens certainly warrant a visit.

Finally, arriving at Plaza de España, you’ll note a more modern approach to a traditional Renaissance style building. Plaza de España was constructed for a World’s Fair in 1928. Its tiled fountains, grand walls and numerous depictions of palms and orange trees make it an iconic Mediterranean plaza, and the spot has been used as a backdrop in a number of motion pictures.

As you depart Seville, cruise to the east through rolling green hills, along open plains and into small towns. Enjoy an authentic performance at a peña flamenca and be sure to sample sangria, Jamón ibérico and juice squeezed from freshly picked oranges as you travel.

However, our exploration is not complete. Ride into the stone-white village of Zuheros, and stop to wander. Homes in this iconic pueblo blanco were erected directly upon its rocky hillside as far back as the 10th century. The chalky-white exteriors seem to glisten in the sun, but their foundations in the earth keep them cool and comfortable, even at midday.

The uneven terrain makes homes and buildings seem almost arbitrarily stacked around one another. And perched on the edge of the hillside, the ancient Zuheros Castle seems to be emerging directly out of the rock it was built on. Try the town’s famous olive oil and its cheeses before unwinding at the end of the day with a glass or two of Andalucía’s sweet wine, Montilla-Morilese.

Get to know the nuances of the culture, the food and wine and the stunning scenery of Andalucía by bike on our Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky​ vacation.

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Spain—Mezquita de Cordoba

Sometimes a change of tune is a good thing. Perhaps the perfect example of the adage is Cordoba’s Mezquita. Originally constructed in the 7th century, the denomination of the UNESCO World Heritage Site has been adapted several times over by its governing inhabitants. And, yet the combination of Christian and Moorish influence upon the cathedral’s design only adds to its aesthetic appeal. Take a guided tour of Cordoba de Mezquita on our Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky biking vacation.

Puglia—Cattedrale di Monopoli

Attractive from afar, and intoxicating from within, is the fortified town of Monopoli. The port village’s location has drawn many invaders historically, and much of the architecture has been built and rebuilt by its flux of inhabitants. Restored in the 17th century, the Cattedrale di Monopoli is one of the most noteworthy structures in the small town. At almost 200 feet high, the cathedral’s soaring tower is visible from quite a distance. Yet the baroque cathedral offers an even more stunning view at its base. Enjoy a close-up of the historic Catterale di Monopoli on our Puglia: Italy’s Undiscovered Coast bicycling vacation.

Portugal—São Jorge Castle

Europe’s western-most capital, Lisbon, boasts a collage of architectural styles. For a classic example of Lisbon’s hodgepodge of building styles, peer up at São Jorge Castle from the Baixa neighborhood of the coastal city. Atop Lisbon’s tallest hill, the Moorish castle rests like an ancient crown, capping off an elegant blend of Roman, Celtic, and even French architectural styles. Explore São Jorge Castle on an extension after our Walking Portugal’s Douro River Valley vacation.

Thailand—Wat Rong Khun

Just outside of Chiang Rai, Thailand, travelers will find the unorthodox and absolutely striking Buddhist temple, Wat Rong Khun. In a land known for its vibrant natural colors, Wat Rong Khun truly stands out as much for its pristine white appearance, as its incredibly intricate façade. Though the White Temple is just over a decade old, it is certain to remain among one of the world’s sacred masterpieces for centuries to come. Marvel at Wat Rong Khun on our Exploring Northern Thailand biking vacation.

Vietnam—Hien Nhan Gate

Park your bike and take some time to explore the Purple Forbidden City, the former headquarters of the Nguyen dynasty. Located in Hue, Vietnam, the Imperial City was once surrounded by a moat and a large stone wall, and outsiders could only peer upon its enclosure. Admittedly, it was quite a view. Admire it yourself, and as you enter into the Purple forbidden City, enjoy a moment examining the detail of the massive stone entryway, the Hien Nhan Gate. Visit the Hien Nhan Gate on our Journey through Vietnam biking vacation.

Peru—Machu Picchu

What can be said about Machu Picchu to relay the wonder and awe of the “Lost City of the Incas”? We can merely echo our predecessors’ sentiments. Since its construction in the 14th and 15th century, the centerpiece of the Sacred Valley has simply amazed visitors from the Spanish conquistadors and Hiram Bingham to the ardent travelers that make their way along the Inca trail each year. Their conclusions? The journey astounds beyond words. Experience it for yourself and visit Machu Picchu on our Peru: Machu Picchu & The Sacred Valley walking tour.

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The holiday was initially organized in the 19^th century to celebrate the Virgin of La Mercè, Barcelona’s Patron Saint. Legend states, that the Virgin of La Mercè first appeared in the 13^th century to inspire an order of monks to defend the city, and later in 1687 she returned to save Barcelona from a locust plague. Centuries later, the feast day was officially acknowledged by the Papacy, and in 1871, the first official festival of La Mercè took place. In 1902, the event adopted its modern format, and some of the most famous features of the celebration were introduced.

The Castells is a genuinely astounding portion of La Mercè. A crowd of thousands will pack into Placa de Jaume to watch as castellers—castle makers—stand upon one another to build up human towers. The towers are comprised of three parts, a pinya (base) a tronc (trunk), and the pom de dalt (crown of the castle). The castle is only considered crowned after a child ascends the monument and salutes the crowd at the top. Castells are raised in various forms and sizes, but each assembly is a wonder to watch.

Gigantes, or the Giants Parade, is another well-loved mainstay of La Mercè. Giant statues of kings and queens make there way through the city, dancing to traditional music, and delighting the crowds. The giants often represent many of Barcelona’s neighborhoods, and are well-supported as they parade along the city’s streets.

Perhaps the most exciting feature of La Mercè is the Correfoc, or “fire-run.” Beginning at dusk, groups of individuals portraying dragons, devils, and other monsters run through the streets setting off bangers, sparklers, and fireworks. One of the few fire-runs that take place each year in Barcelona, the Correfoc is an annual crowd favorite.

These highlights of La Mercè have long since been ingrained in Barcelona’s history. Yet, with thousands of events taking place in a multitude of outdoor venues at each annual festival, La Mercè is truly an event worth experiencing for yourself. Join VBT on our Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky vacation and take part in Barcelona’s latest and largest summer celebration.

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Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes, peeled
• 1 cucumber peeled and seeded
• 1 small onion
• 2-3 cloves of garlic
• 1 pepper
• 1 slice of bread, crust removed
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Water
• Tabasco
• Salt and Pepper

Preparation

• Puree first 5 ingredients until well blended
• Add bread and continue to blend
• Add vinegar, slowly drizzle olive oil and blend until smooth
• Add water to adjust consistency if too thick
• Season withTabasco, salt and pepper to taste

Leila suggests serving grilled or roasted prawns alongside the Gazpacho and pairing the meal with a Rose or a Sherry for a full palette of flavors.  ¡Buen provecho!

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While the thought of Southern Spainmay conjure images of white villages, gentle hills, and refreshing sangria, at the heart of Andalusían culture, complementing its rustic landscape, is the art of Flamenco.  A culmination of Roman, Moorish, Christian, and Jewish influence, the folk dance has served as one the most prominent features of Spanish culture since the 18^th century.  Initially evolving out of Gypsy culture, its origins are enveloped in mystery.  Yet, Flamenco has survived centuries to develop into a cultural emblem known throughout the world.

More than simply a genre of music or dance, Flamenco combines cante (singing), toque (guitar), and danza (dance) to create a captivating, all encompassing sensory experience.  The cultural tradition can be taken in at a Peña Flamenca, a traditional Flamenco club, a Tabloa, a modern establishment designed specifically for Flamenco performance, or even occasionally in an impromptu juerga (jam session).  Regardless of the venue, after experiencing Flamenco, most agree that the art is truly a “Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity,”  as UNESCO declared it just last year.

Experience the eloquence and mystique of Flamenco for yourself and join us on one of our favorite warm winter getaways,Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky, where we enjoy a visit to a Peña Flamenca on Day 4.

Click here to view a video of our Spain Trip, featuring a Flamenco dance.

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Gambas al Pil-Pil (Sizzling Hot Chili Shrimp)

Gambas (shrimp) al pil pil, is a simple, traditional, delicious Spanish tapa that is easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

8 ounces uncooked medium shrimp, peeled, deveined

1 teaspoon coarse salt

1/4 cup olive oil

2 garlic cloves

1 (1-inch) piece dried red chili pepper, seeded or 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Pinch paprika

1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

Directions:

Place shrimp in bowl; sprinkle with coarse salt and toss. Let stand 15 minutes. Pat dry. Heat oil in medium skillet over high heat. Add garlic, and dried pepper and stir. When garlic browns, discard it and the dried chili. Add shrimp; stir until just cooked through, about 2 minutes. Transfer to serving dish with the oil. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley

Recipe found on the Food Network http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/cooking-live/gambas-al-pil-pil-sizzling-hot-chili-shrimp-recipe/index.html

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