A dessert with a rich history

Doing justice to its name, this dessert is most typical for Catalonia, where it is known as crema cremada or burnt cream. Dating back to the fourteenth century, it is documented in the Catalan literature as one of the oldest desserts in Europe. Crema Catalana is traditionally served on the day of St. Joseph (Father`s Day) that is on March 19.

However, even on a normal day, tourists and locals alike can satisfy their sweet cravings with a delicious serve of the authentic Crema Catalana. It is a perfect ending to a hearty Spanish lunch and combines perfectly with a cup of strong, black coffee.

An authentic Spanish treat

After a long stroll around the streets of Barcelona (or any other beautiful Spanish city), you often find yourself seated at a nice restaurant luring visitors with its heavenly smells (at least that`s my personal experience).

On the menu is a wide range of desserts, but everyone is ordering just one thing – Crema Catalana. And there is a reason for this. Tasting a bit like its French counterpart creme brûlée, the Catalan cream has a distinctive flavor of cinnamon and lemon peel. Slightly crunchy and surprisingly light- tasting, it melts in your mouth, making your day a bit brighter.

So, are you having a dessert today? Choose wisely, because you might miss on the greatest indulgence your senses have ever experienced!

The post Spain`s Sweet Delight: Crema Catalana appeared first on 203Challenges.

#1 You’d have a hard time finding anything better than Barcelona for food, as far as being a hub. – Anthony Bourdain

#2 We crossed spacious streets, with building resembling palaces, in La Rambla promenade ; the shops were well illuminated and there was movement and life… I did not decide to go to sleep, even though I wished to, so I could rise early and contemplate, in daylight, this city, unknown to me: Barcelona, capital of Catalonia. – Hans Christian Andersen

#3 I went to have a look at the cathedral, a modern cathedral, and one of the most hideous buildings in the world. – George Orwell (written in 1938)

#4 Barcelona, archives of courtesy, shelter of the foreigners, hospital of the poor, father-land of  the brave , vengeance of the offended and pleasant correspondence of firm friendship, and in site, and in beauty, unique. – Miguel de Cervantes

#5 The haunting of history is ever present in Barcelona. I see cities as organisms, as living creatures. To me, Madrid is a man and Barcelona is a woman. And it’s a woman who’s extremely vain. – Carlos Ruiz Zafon

#6 Such a beautiful horizon, like a jewel in the sun , for you a will be a seagle of your beautiful ocean . The bells are ringing, open up your doors to the world. – a quote from the song “Barcelona”, a hymn of the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.

#7 In Barcelona, things seem so different. For example, I know that it’s traditionally the least Spanish city, but you’d never know they had a monarchy, coming here as a tourist – as opposed to the U.K., where the Queen is probably the best-known animal, vegetable and/or mineral when it comes to overseas visitors. – Julie Burchill

#8 Here in Barcelona, it’s the architects who built the buildings that made the city iconic who are the objects of admiration – not a bunch of half-witted monarchs. – Julie Burchill

#9 I wrote every day between the ages of 12 and 20 when I stopped because I went to Barcelona, where life was too exciting to write. – Colm Tóibín

#10 Allow me to state here how much I love Barcelona , an admirable city, a city full of life, intense, a port open to the past and future. – Le Corbusier

Read more:

20 signs you’ve lived in Spain for too long

5 quotes about Spain that explain why everyone loves this country

15 inspiring quotes on exploring the world

Featured image: Alexandre Perotto

The post 10 quotes about Barcelona that explain why everyone loves it appeared first on 203Challenges.

Food plays an essential role in my life. I’ve always appreciated local produce and high-quality ingredients that can be combined to create authentic soul food. If you add delicious wine, strong coffee and good company, your experience will turn into a feast for your senses.

As one of my biggest food and travel inspirations – Mark Weins – says:

“I believe when you travel, there’s no better way to connect with people, than through food.”

Ready to test your taste buds? This exquisite bucket list will give you food for thought.

Fresh coconut and tropical fruits in Hawaii (or any other exotic island)

Once you’ve set foot in Hawaii, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fruit you never imagined existed and can’t even pronounce – rambutan, egg fruit, pitaya (dragon fruit), poha berry, cherimoya, lilikoi, longan, mangosteen… the list goes on and on. I recommend trying as many as of these exotic fruits as you can, if only for the sake of it. Coconut water is the to-go drink in Hawaii – healthy, rich and refreshing. For a sweet and healthy fruit snack, make sure you try the island’s locally grown lychees, mangoes, guavas, papayas or pineapples.

Sushi and sashimi in Japan

© Lina Kirilova

If you had asked me before my trip “Why Japan?” I would’ve said “For the food!” I love sushi, and where else can you enjoy this iconic dish in its finest form? The best sushi can definitely be found around the famous Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo, an area full of affordable restaurants. If you want to step up your food game,  book yourself in for an exclusive fine-dining experience at Yoshihashi, or aim even higher and head to Narisawa – officially rated the second-best restaurant in Asia.

Coffee in Colombia

Colombia is one of the few countries in the world that grows only the fine-flavored variety of Arabica coffee beans. Coffee tourism has grown so popular that the country now offers a wide range of tasting tours around the various plantations. Even though there are big coffee chains emerging (Starbucks opened in 2014), Colombia is more focused on developing its coffee culture by opening new specialty coffee shops. 

Pizza, pasta, gelato, tiramisu, cannoli and espresso in Italy

Italian cuisine is world-famous, appealing to and satisfying almost any taste. Pizza, pasta, seafood, wine, coffee, mouthwatering desserts – you name it, the Italians have perfected it. Napoli is renowned for having the best pizza because they believe in keeping it simple – tomato sauce, mozzarella and fresh basil is all you need. When in Sicily, make sure you try the traditional southern dessert of cannoli, filled with smooth ricotta. Anywhere else in the country, indulge your sweet tooth in tiramisu or gelato. Ask anyone in Rome where to get the best tiramisu and they’ll most likely give you one of the following answers:

#1: “Tiramisu? My nonna makes the best tiramisu in Rome!” or

#2: “Pompi!” (the city’s most famous cake shop)

If tiramisu isn’t your thing, aim for a scoop – there’s hardly a bad gelato in the whole country! Finish off with a shot of espresso taken right at the bar.

Tapas, paella, gazpacho, jamon serrano or churros in Spain

© Lina Kirilova

Spain – and especially Catalonia – has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred chefs in Europe. Once in Spain, it’s your duty to eat like a local and indulge in some tapas! There are a number of decent tapas bars in any big city. Valencia claims to have the best paella, while jamon and churros are the most reliable sweet treats throughout the whole country.

Pastel de nata in Portugal

Pastel de nata | © Lina Kirilova

Pastel de nata – also known as Pastel de Belem – is one of the main reasons to visit Portugal. This typical custard tart can be found anywhere throughout the country, but its historical roots lead back to 1837 in Belem – one of the historical districts of Lisbon. This delicious dessert simply consists of eggs, sugar, pastry dough, cream filling and cinnamon. You can taste the tradition in Pasteis de Belem bakery, which still offers the unique Portuguese sweet made using traditional methods. Coffee and wine complement the dish nicely.

Seafood in the Mediterranean

© Lina Kirilova

I’ve already mentioned three Mediterranean countries that offer an abundance of fresh, delicious seafood: Italy, Spain and Portugal. But there are more! Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Croatia and Turkey also make the list. Take a trip to one of these coastal countries to indulge in calamari, squid, mussels, shrimp, clams, scallops, octopus, eel, oysters and all varieties of freshly caught fish.

Dates in Qatar

Dates are not just a dried fruit in the Middle East; they’re a ritual. I discovered their delicious richness during a long layover in Doha’s international airport. I was wandering around the shops looking for something to satisfy my sweet tooth when my attention was drawn to a stand offering a variety of dates. There were plain dates, dates filled with roasted nuts – walnuts, almonds, cashews – and dates covered in premium Belgian chocolate. Each bite was a taste of gourmand paradise. It was only later that I discovered the true significance of dates; along with a cup of bitter black coffee, these soft fruits are used as a welcome dish and a sign of hospitality.

Dim sum in China (or Chinatown)

© Lina Kirilova

I was first introduced to dim sum in the narrow streets of Chinatown, San Francisco – the largest Chinatown outside of Asia and the oldest in North America. I was starving after a long day spent running up and down the hills of San Francisco when a sudden encounter with a local brought me to Chinatown for a finger-licking snack. As I devoured the savory snack, I asked myself: what are these dim sum made of? Well, they are small steamed dumplings made with a range of different fillings – from shrimp, beef, and pork to leek, cabbage, daikon and even sweet rice. 

Sachertorte in Vienna

Sachertorte has been around since 1832, and it’s probably one of the most famous cakes in the whole world. Despite this, the original recipe remains a well-kept secret in the Sacher Café in Vienna. In order to indulge in a heavenly piece of chocolate-y Sachertorte, you’ll have to wait in line between 15 and 45 minutes depending on the season. However, the cafe’s staff do a pretty good job of getting people in and out as quickly as possible, allowing the masses to enjoy the sweet treat. For maximum deliciousness, pair the cake with a cup of traditional Viennese coffee: a mélange or a franziskaner.

***

Does this list seem too challenging for you? You can also travel for food without even leaving your own city. How? Just go to that Indian restaurant you’ve always wanted to try, or look for a cafe selling a cultural cuisine you’ve never tasted before and give it a shot. We challenge you to experiment – it could be Ethiopian or Mexican, Thai or Turkish, Nepali or Vietnamese. Step out of your comfort zone and you’ll find a world of tempting food just waiting to be devoured.

The post The foodie’s bucket list around the world appeared first on 203Challenges.

Set against the backdrop of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, Marbella has near perfect weather, pristine beaches, championship golf courses and shopping to die for.

Having a reputation of being a place that only the wealthy can afford might put some people off visiting Marbella, but it shouldn’t as there is plenty to see and do that won’t cost a fortune.

Sure, it can be expensive in the bars and clubs along the “Golden Mile” and the marina at Puerto Banus, but if you are savvy, Marbella can be no more expensive than anywhere else on the Costa del Sol.

How to get to Marbella from Malaga Airport

Easy to get to from almost any airport in the UK, Malaga Airport (AGP) is the gateway to the Costa del Sol and just 52 kilometers from Marbella.

The quickest and easiest way to get to Marbella is to take the new toll road where you won’t see much traffic at all. A taxi transfer from Malaga airport to Marbella is a great option if you don’t fancy driving in Spain. The journey along the AP-7 (Autopista del Mediterráneo) takes just under 40 minutes.

Where to stay

In order to get the best out of your weekend break try and book a hotel in the center of town. By staying in town you can hit the beach during the day and enjoy the bars and restaurants at night all without the need for a car.

Following a sleek remodeling, the 4-star beachfront Amàre Marbella has a South Beach, Miami vibe, with its beach club and rooftop bar an ideal place to chill out.

The Amàre is just a few minutes walk from the Plaza de Los Naranjos in the old town and has all the seafront restaurants and bars right on your doorstep. Prices can be high during the summer at around 600€ per night but if you visit out of season a double room can be had for just over 100€.

A less expensive option is the 2-star H Juan Vivienda Turistica Marbella, close to the old town and a short walk to the beach. Prices start from around 30€ off-season.

Beaches

Marbella has 23 beaches to choose from including some that have been given the prestigious Blue Flag status for the amenities and cleanliness. Except for the private beach clubs, all you need to pay for are your sunbed and umbrella.

Places like Niki Beach and Ocean Club charge a hefty price tag for their sun loungers but you can have that beach club vibe for free if you hang out at the Bounty Beach chiringuito.

Where to eat

If you don’t want to pay a premium for your meal, avoid all the establishments along the seafront. If you go just a few streets back you will find plenty of bars offering a menu del dia for less than 15€.

Another alternative is to a sit-down meal is to go bar hopping in the old town while feasting on tapas. Tapas are a small bite-sized portion of food that in Andalucia is usually free when you order a drink.

Hit the clubs

For an epic night out, head to Marbella’s glitzy neighbor Puerto Banus. Full of designer boutiques and trendy bars built around its marina Puerto Banus is the place to go if you want to party all night.

The News Café and Linekers are free to enter, as are several of the clubs if you get there before midnight. Others like Pangea charge an entrance fee, but it usually comes with a complimentary drink.

Sightseeing

To experience Marbella at its best you only need to wander down the narrow cobbled streets in the old part of town or “El Casco Antiguo” as it is referred to by locals.

Stop for a drink or homemade ice cream at one of the bars in the Plaza de Los Naranjos (Orange Square) and watch the world go by.

In the square, you will also find a tourist office where you can get a map to discover all the important buildings and fountains that were built during the Renaissance.

Shopping

If you are looking for an unusual souvenir of your time in Marbella, check out the artisan market around the marina. Held every Sunday from lunchtime this is the place to go shopping for jewelry, antiques, and ceramics.

The post How to Spend 48 Hours in Marbella appeared first on 203Challenges.

About the food

Spanish cuisine is simply amazing, known for its fresh produce and rich flavors. Some might consider their obsession with food a bit too much, though, as Spaniards even have a festival called La Tomatina, during which they mercilessly pelt each other with tomatoes!

About football

Between 2008 and 2012 the Spanish team won two back-to-back European titles in soccer, completing the sweep with a World Cup in between. With world-renowned clubs such as Barcelona and Real Madrid, the stadiums in Spain’s largest cities are constantly crowded with tourists from all around the world.

About the people

One word is enough to sum up why most of us love Spain: people. Spaniards are passionate, friendly and plenty of fun, earning them a positive reputation both at home and abroad.

About the night life

Every day in Spain could turn into a party – except for the weekends, which are always a party! Spanish people have the energy of the bulls they fight when it comes to staying out late.

About Mallorca

Mallorca, one of the best summer destinations in Spain, has it all: beaches, history, art, mountain ranges, night clubs and picturesque old towns. Over seven million tourists visit the resorts in the region every year, with Palma de Mallorca being the most popular.

READ MORE ABOUT SPAIN

READ MORE TRAVEL QUOTES

The post 5 quotes about Spain that explain why people love this country appeared first on 203Challenges.

But Valencia is much more than a long pristine beach, hearty portions of paella, and refreshing cocktails. Here’s our list of 5 fun ways to enjoy the city:

#1 Taste the world at Mercato Central

Did you know that the biggest European market for fresh products is situated in the city of Valencia? Well, now you know and you better hurry to have a bite of all the delicacies offered at Mercato Central, or the Central Market.

Imagine endless rows of stalls covered with juicy oranges, appealing strawberries, papayas, and many more colorful fruits and veggies. Make your way through the crowds and surrender to the smell of the freshly baked bread stuffed with walnuts, olives, and other indulgent fillings. Don’t miss on all the fish and seafood that have been brought straight from the sea. Plus, the Spanish cheese varieties and the world-famous Iberian ham will be available for a free tasting. But beware: one bite is never enough!

Mercato Central in Valencia, Spain

#2 Move yourself in the Turia Gardens, the park that used to be a river

The Turia Gardens go straight through the heart of Valencia and are an unmissable attraction for all first timers looking to discover the city’s charms.

Did you know that this peculiar park used to be a river? A river that was creating many headaches for the locals. After the devastating flood in 1957, the people of Valencia decided to re-route it, leaving an empty river bed passing throughout the whole city. The river bed has then been transformed into a beautiful green park, a favorite spot for running, cycling, and a refreshing escape from the urban life.

So, why not joining the locals for an invigorating run in the popular Turia Gardens? Plus, this might be good for your waistline after all the cheese and ham you ate the the market.

The old riverbed of the diverted river Turia turned into a park.

#3 Take a guided tour in the old town

Stroll around Valencia’s glorious old town that boasts baroque churches, magnificent cathedrals, charming little squares, and an impressive mix of architectural styles. If mesmerizing sites are not enough, join a guided tour to learn more about the 2,000 year-old history of the city, along with some quirky facts and anecdotes. Such tours are available every day and are generally free. But participants are encouraged to donate as much as they want at the end.

Alternatively, do your own walking tour around the major sightseeing like Plaza de la Virgin, the Serranos Gate, the Silk Exchange, and the Cathedral of Valencia, among other must-see landmarks. Finish with a scoop of ice-cream and a hot cup of black coffee at one of the numerous coffee houses that are always there for you if you get tired.

The old part of Valencia

#4 Go wild in the bioparc

History is not your thing? Nature lovers rejoice because Valencia has to offer more than admirable art, diverse architecture and historical treasures. Leave the old town and head to the bioparc, a modern zoo with almost no fences, where animals are roaming freely in landscapes replicating their natural habitats. Walk around and witness the lemurs happily jumping from branch to branch just above your head. From giraffes licking each other’s necks to gorillas carrying their babies, you can get as close to them as possible. In Valencia, the savanna is just a stone’s throw away, pay it a visit!

Meercats at Bioparc Valencia

READ MORE: 10 fun facts about Spain to know before you go

#5 Enjoy yourself at the beach

Let’s go back to our little Valencia dream. Remember the beach and the cold sangria? It’s time to enjoy them to the fullest. Valencia’s coastline is long and sandy, calling all the travelers who want to feel the light breeze in their hair while chilling by the blue waters, watching the waves washing the golden shores. Is there anything more relaxing than that? Add a warm traditional lunch consisting of paella valenciana (a rice dish with beans, rabbit and chicken meat, snails and seasoned with saffron), and it’s finally time for the cold glass of sangria, or even better ague the valencia (a cocktail made of cava or champagne, orange juice, vodka and gin).

Take this short list of fun activities as a starting point. Keep roaming around the historical streets and the many pretty churches. Hide under the shades in the green parks and share a beer with a stranger, climb a lemon three and enjoy the view from above. Adventures are all around. Go find them and don’t forget to share in the comments!

And now, you can start to think about your next steps – manicure courses, music courses, astrology courses, or improvisation courses 🙂

***

A passionate writer, journalist, and explorer, Yoana Hristova (www.yoanahristova.com) has worked and studied in Bulgaria, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. Currently based in Bulgaria, she is always on the lookout for great stories that inspire us to travel, grow and discover what life has to offer.

See also: Most Beautiful Spain Gardens. Guide with Tips for First-Timers

and Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Spain: Off the Beaten Path Destinations to Visit

The post 5 fun things to do in Valencia, Spain appeared first on 203Challenges.

So, if you are ready to step out of your comfort zone and leave the most famous sightseeing to first-time visitors and crowds, check out our suggestions for the best off-beaten path destinations in Spain! 

La Glorieta Park, Valencia

To kick off your adventure, take the train from Madrid to Valencia and get ready for some unseen and unpopular yet impeccable sights! Today, we are in La Glorieta Park. 

An estate as lovely as its name, La Glorieta, originates back to 1812 when the city was under French rule. However else it may have impacted the Spanish cities, there would actually be no park if it were not for one particular French general. In the midst of chaos and occupation, he was an amateur botanist who thought it would be fun to do some gardening. 

Well, that amateur gardening soon became a whole park and one of the most charming places in Valencia. La Glorieta is located right at the beginning of the famous Colon Street, making it easily accessible and easy to find. You can even go all-in with the tours and get the most information about the park, its history, pioneer, and design! 

Rias Altas, Galicia

Perfect for those who love that idyllic Spanish beach but do not enjoy brushing shoulders while tanning, Rias Altas is one of the most iconic hidden gems in the country. 

With massive cliffs, vast beaches, and turquoise waters, the whole area of northern Galicia looks like a postcard, perfect for exploring, relaxing, and casually strolling. The entire region is much less urbanized and works perfectly if you want to see the untouched side of Spain, where the roots and culture have not yet been impacted by overflowing tourists and modernism. 

The ones that know it call Rias Altas the Spanish Fjord since there are plenty of stunning locations and wild, unusual saliences in the area. So, we suggest visiting Galicia if you want some quiet hiking time, a pinch of adventure, and calm, undisturbed beaches! 

The Town of Albarracin

Part of the autonomous community of Aragon, Albarracin is one of the most iconic yet overlooked destinations in Spain – one that we suggest you visit ASAP!

With a shockingly low population of 1075 inhabitants, you might think that Albarracin is a dead town – and you could not be further from the truth! Surrounded by stony hills and impressive Spanish natural terrain, the village is very picturesque and one that hits right in the middle of the target when you imagine small Spanish towns. 

There are only a handful of things to do here, Albarracin Cathedral and the city square included, but if you are up for a day trip, this is the place to be. The city walls and charming narrow streets paint an iconic picture, relieving you from tourist crowds, noise, and the modernized part of Spain. 

Cartagena

Probably a bit more well-known than the other locations on our list, Cartagena still deserves more recognition and love. Will you deliver? 

This gem in south-eastern Iberia dates back to the Roman Empire times, and not only as an unimportant site but as a thriving and charming city. Naturally, there are numerous corners of the cityscape suggesting its old age, but the traces left by the Roman Empire only adds to Cartagena’s charm and historical value. 

Once, it was quite a significant town to the Spanish Navy and maritime communications through the Mediterranean, but after forgetting its port, people forgot Cartagena in general. So, prepare for some long walks along the magnificent harbor, blending in with the artistic side of the city and historical establishments, and let’s renew Cartagena’s importance once again! 

Sierras Subbeticas National Park

How can a national park be off the beaten path, you ask? Well, overlook it often enough, and it becomes a rare pearl in the sea of diamonds. Now, let’s see what we know. 

Located in the heart of Andalucia, Sierras Subbeticas is one of the wildest and most beautiful natural terrains here, organized in a way that allows you effortless exploration and plenty of sights. With a wide variety of rare plants and natural designs, the park is one of the loveliest yet underappreciated places you should visit, also knowing that its limited visitation will make it cheaper and easier to access. Speaking of, the park sits between the three cities of Cordoba, Seville, and Granada, so it is quite perfect, location-wise. 

Be ready for some bird watching, as well. With over 70 different bird species and rare sightings like the Griffon Vultures, Sierras Subbaticas is one of the most extraordinary places if you love birds! 

Discover this totally unseen Spain and be one of the first ones to set an example! Whether you visit giants like the ones we mentioned at the beginning, or outcasts, like the ones on our list, Spain remains just as wonderful and worthy of your time. However, we still suggest dwelling deeper into the unknown. Have an adventure, right? Adios, and best of luck! 

The post Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Spain: Off the Beaten Path Destinations to Visit appeared first on 203Challenges.

The Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is a symbol of both Barcelona and Gaudí, and today it stands as his most elaborate and extraordinary work in the city. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the towers of the temple define the skyline and his design of the exterior is a matter of debate; some think of the building gaudy and over the top, and others consider it a masterpiece for the intricate detail. This temple – that is still under construction since 1882- is a unique gem and also one of the most iconic buildings in the world. The interior is as stunning as the outside in its own way, with the high ceilings and stained-glass windows that allow the sunlight to stream in and bathe visitors in a beautiful colour show. It is an amazing piece of work and definite must see of Gaudi’s designs. It is necessary to book a ticket in advance to enter the church, and there are several tour options you can select from for your trip. 

Park Güell

Park Güell is one of Gaudi’s demonstration of love to the world. It has many colourful mosaics of the park are beautiful and worth admiring, and you can even get some amazing views of Barcelona from the park as added bonus. It is a beautiful residential park that is worth the visit. To spend the day and have a lovely picnic. 

Gaudí House Museum

The Gaudí House Museum is a model house located at Park Güell. Gaudí designed it as a model home to attract residents for the complex that was going to be built, but since it did not go well, Gaudí bought it for himself and lived there from 1906 to 1925, and in 1963 it opened as the Gaudí House Museum, with a collection of furniture designed by the architect, as well as other items. 

Casa Milà

Casa Milà, also known as “La Pedrera”, or the “Stone Quarry”, due to its resemblance to the facade of an open quarry. It was the last project that was designed by Gaudí before he commited his time exclusively to the Sagrada Familia. The building is unique with its exterior curved style.

Casa Battló

Casa Batlló, also known as House of Bones – due to its visceral, skeletal organic design – is a one of a kind building and looks like a scene from a Doctor Seuss book; it has funky themed rooms, really bright interior colours, and a widely dramatic curved architecture that makes you feel like you are in an optical illusion, that make it a truly unique building. It is the result of a total restoration of and old traditional house that was built in 1877. 

These are some of Antoni Gaudi’s best architectural projects, he dedicated all of this time and effort into his work that allowed Barcelona to become such an interesting and artistic city. We also want to share other sites that make Barcelona such a beautiful city, that are worthy of your time and admiration. 

La Rambla

Considered as the most iconic street in Barcelona, La Rambla is a big boulevard that goes from Plaça de Catalunya to the seafront. Originally, it marked the edge of the downtown during the Middle Ages before it became a famous street full of cafés, shops, and the famous La Boqueria food market. 

Passeig de Gràcia

Some time before, the area of Gràcia was an independent town that was on the edge of Barcelona. Later, in the 19th century in was annexed to the city. The Passeig de Gràcia is a route full of history that links the two areas, and has been compared with the Champs-Élysées in Paris for its many designer and luxurious boutiques. 

Parc de la Ciutadella

The Ciutadella Park is the centrally located green space in Barcelona, that has been a gathering point for residents in the city since it was built in 1877. When it first opened, it was the only public park you could in the city. Today, you can find there groups of people practicing yoga, the Catalan Parliament and the Barcelona Zoo.

Arc de Triomf

The Arc de Triomf was the direct response of Barcelona to the triumphal arch in Paris. It was designed by Modernist architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas (who collaborated with Antoni Gaudí in several projects). However, this arc was built for a different reason than his northern cousin, and it was made as the main access gate for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition. It is one of the main arteries of the city, and the place to celebrate many cultural fairs, including markets and parade celebrations for the various foreigners that have set roots in Barcelona, like Chinese, Thai and Bolivian heritage, to name a few.

Barcelona Chocolate Museum

Barcelona has had a close relationship with everything that is cacao-based. For instance, the Spanish people has extracted the product from South America. Aside from learning about the art of making chocolate, once you enter you can admire original chocolate sculptures and you can also participate in a workshop to be a chocolatier for the day. 

The city also has a total of 20 Michelin stars if you love food, and if you have a more cultural side there is a wide variety of buildings to see and events as well. Beautiful beaches and world-class nightlife too. 

The post Top Gaudí Buildings To See in Barcelona appeared first on 203Challenges.

Not that a single weekend is enough to examine even a little piece of Valencia but yet you should start somewhere.

Here are the major attractions in Valencia, which you definitely need to see, feel and taste!

City of Arts and Sciences (Ciutat de les Arts Valencia) – this is a cultural complex, situated over 350,000 square meters. It shelters five buildings with unique architecture: Prince Felipe Science Museum (Museo de las Ciencias Príncipe Felipe) – a three-story building in the form of a whale skeleton; L’Hemisfèric – an IMAX cinema with a screen in the form of a hemispheric dome of 900 square meters; L’Umbracle- a landscaped walk; L’Oceanogràfic – the biggest aquarium in Europe with around 40,000 animals; and the Queen Sofía Palace of the Arts (El Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia), which is a stage for opera concerts.

City of Art and Science in Valencia | Sarunas Mikalauskas/Flickr

Valencia Cathedral (Catedral de Santa María de Valencia) is an interesting mixture of Roman, Gothic and Baroque style and architecture. It shelters many pieces of art, such as several paintings by Francisco Goya. The cathedral is also known as a depository of the probably most acknowledged candidate for being the authentic Holy Grail, which has been in Valencia since the XV century. The cathedral was built between 1262 and 1356.

National Museum of Ceramics and Decorative Arts (Museo Nacional de Ceramica y de las Artes Suntuarias Gonzalès Marti) is a museum-palace, known for its huge entrance gate with marble sculptures. The building dates back to the XV century. Inside, there is a collection of ceramic items from prehistoric times until nowadays. On the first floor there is a huge ballroom, a living room and many other rooms. Here you can see an authentic kitchen, characteristic for Valencia, built entirely of decorated tiles with typical vessels and utensils.

La Lonja de la Seda is a silk exchange dating back to the XV century. The building is built in Gothic style. There are gorgons on its façade, while inside the walls are adorned with floral motifs and many detailed figures of animals and people. La Lonja is declared one of the most significant Gothic buildings in Europe.

La Lonja de la Seda in Valencia | MollySVH/Flickr

Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia (Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia) is the place where you can see a really huge collection of paintings. It shelters works of Velazquez, Goya, Sorolla and others, as well as paintings of modern artists, sculptors and archaeological findings.

The Central Market (Mercato Central) of Valencia is the biggest fruits and vegetables market in Europe. It has more than 90 stores offering mostly fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, jams, as well as tea, coffee, tinned food. The market is open from Monday to Saturday.

Las Fallas is a festival of fireworks, incredible fire and pyrotechnics show, which has turned into a tradition for Valencia. It is organised on different dates every year, very often in April. The tradition derives from the past when people used to burn down the waste after the spring cleaning. Nowadays the festival continues for a whole week during which every one of the local communities prepares big sculptures of flammable materials, such as wood and papier-mâché, which are set on fire on the last day of the festival.

Las Fallas in Valencia | Pablo Monteagudo/Flickr

Bioparc Valencia is a different type of zoo because here the animals are walking freely in their natural habitat and you can even touch them. You will be surrounded by lions, tigers, zebras, giraffes, rhinoceros, chimpanzees, and many others. There are huge crocodiles and alligators in natural swamps, hippopotamus, herons, and etc. On the whole, there are animals from all continents. You are going to experience an unforgettable adventure.

La Albufera is the biggest lake in Spain. It is a wonderful place located only 12 km away from the city. A cozy beach, many birds, rice plantations, boat trips and delicious meals at the restaurants in the region. What more can one wish for? Here the sunrise and the sunset draw an unforgettable picture over the lake. Enjoy it!

Paella – You should definitely try paella while in Spain. There are different varieties of this traditional meal but the ingredients that are omnipresent include rice, saffron and olive oil. It can be garnished with different type of meat, vegetables and seafood. It is up to your personal taste and is also suitable for vegetarians. The residents of Valencia, on the other hand, claim that the meal was created in their city.

Siesta – after the nice lunch it is time for a brief rest – from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m., or longer, if you wish so. When in Spain, do it like the Spaniards and take advantage of the daily siesta. This is the time when the sun is the strongest, so what better way of escaping the heat than a nice nap.

Shopping in Valencia – souvenirs, t-shirts, jewellery, shoes, postcards, porcelain sets are found at the stores between the Central Market and Plaza Ayntamento. There are many stores in the passage between Plaza de la Virgin and Plaza de la Reina offering goods at good prices. There are also many malls in the city where you can find everything: Nuevo Centro, El Saler, Aquа, and others.

Nightlife in Valencia – Valencia meets everyone’s taste including in the night: house and jazz clubs, bars, restaurants, outdoor discotheques adorned with palm trees. You can choose entertainment pleasing your very own taste in one of the numerous clubs along the beach or in the outskirts of the city. The young Spaniards often gather in the open air at the squares and the streets in the night and have a beer or calimocho (a cocktail made of wine and coke) before heading to the discotheque after midnight.

The post Valencia – first time visitor’s attractions appeared first on 203Challenges.

Reina Sofia Museum

The museum is housed in a six-story building, which was formerly the Old Madrid General Hospital. Nowadays, the building is home to one of the finest collections of 20th-century art in the world. The museum is divided into three collections and includes masterpieces by Picasso and Dali.

• Guernica by Pablo Picasso. Guernica is undoubtedly Picasso’s most famous work, and one of the most moving anti-war art pieces in the world. Created in 1937, it reflects the tragic consequences of war and the toll it takes on civilians. The painting depicts the Nazi bombing over the Basque village of Guernica, as requested by the Spanish Nationalists. It was not just an aesthetic statement; this painting brought international attention to the horrors of the Spanish Civil War.

Guernica by Picasso, 1937 / Wikipedia

• The Great Masturbator by Salvador Dali. This is one of Dali’s most famous works from his surrealist period. The centrally placed head is a kind of self-portrait of Dali and is shaped like the rocks of Cape Creus, where he lived at the time. The nude female figure resembles Gala, who was Dali’s muse during this period. One possible interpretation connects the painting with Dali’s conflicted sexuality and his surreal attempts to express those feelings.

The Great Masturbator by Salvador Dali, 1929 – Richard Mortel/flickr

Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum

The Thyssen-Bornemisza’s collection was once the second biggest private collection in the world. Now it is often seen as a supplement to the other two museums in the ‘triangle’. Nevertheless, it covers some styles and epochs that the others miss, and houses some world-renowned paintings that are well worth checking out:

• View of Vessenots, Auvers by Vincent van Gogh. Bright colors depict a few cottages and some swaying trees on the horizon in this iconic landscape. The painting – and more specifically the disturbed brushstrokes – is typical of van Gogh’s last period; he painted a lot of landscapes in this manner in the weeks before his death.

View of Vessenots, Auvers by Vincent van Gogh, 1890/ Wikipedia

• The Grand Canal from San Vio, Venice by Giovanni Antonio Canal. Better known as Canaletto, Canal was one of the most famous Venetian painters in the 18th century. His accuracy in depicting the city’s landscapes was appreciated by art lovers and important figures of his era.

The Grand Canal from San Vio, Venice by Giovanni Antonio Canal, 1723/ Wikipedia

Read more about Spain

Pin it so you don’t get lost in the ‘Triangle of Art’:

The post Madrid’s Golden Triangle of Art: the highlights (part two) appeared first on 203Challenges.