Despite the euro raising prices, Barcelona is still an attractive destination for the off-season in Jackson; it offers a rich culture, luxurious accommodations at a great value, and of course you get to practice that Spanish you’ve been studying so hard. Amidst the fear of the economic crisis, many star-rated hotels have been offering discounted rooms for the on-line traveler, especially in the off-season, lucky you! Another new feature being offered by stylish hotels this summer is drinks at the rooftop, where guests and locals alike can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city while cooling off with a drink on the terrace, again ¡qué suerte!

You may want to practice the authentic Spanish you’ve been studying at Z language school by asking “¿me cobras, por favor?” to the friendly staff at Bliss cafe at Plaça Sant Just, the perfect stop for your downtown adventures. And what should you have? I’d suggest the homemade artichoke quiche and the dark chocolate pie with nuts. It is the perfect pick-me-up to continue exploring El Born neighborhood with its avant-garde art galleries and fashion. For the more athletic travelers, you may then proceed to the beachfront, La Barceloneta. Pack your wetsuit for a fun time catching waves while kite-surfing, the latest sport at the beach this summer. Chill after the workout like the locals: in a chiringuito with a caña and some aceitunas and just watch people go by.

For those with a sweet tooth, the little “granjas” at carrer Petritxol have been serving “suizos” for as long as we can remember. Enjoy this thick, dark, hot cocoa topped with real whipped cream “merienda” as a little afternoon snack just as the locals do.

As for the latest buzz in the art world, on the first Sunday of each month all the museums in Barcelona are free from 3 to 8 in the evening! Plan your trip accordingly and enjoy what the city has to offer. We would suggest a trip to the Picasso Museum in Calle Montcada, and then a bite to eat in the lovely XVth century palace of Museu Textil, where the restaurant serves delicious “platos del día” at very affordable prices in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. To make the evening spark even more, stop at the Txampanyet in Montcada 22 for some bubbly toasts ¡”Salud”, “chin-chin”!

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