Spain

 

Spain is consistently ranked as one of the world’s top tourist destinations. Famous for its mediterranean climate and beautiful beaches, it is an ideal summer getaway for millions of tourists from across the world. Its islands and the mediterranean sea attract millions of tourists from across the world throughout the year. Spain is also known for its Islamic history. The country features many World Heritage Sites. In addition, Spain is famous for its architecture, most notably by Antoni Gaudi. The most visited monuments in Spain are located in Barcelona. Barcelona is a major cultural, economic, and financial centre in Europe. It is also known for hosting many international sports tournaments. As a leading world city, Barcelona's influence in global socio-economic affairs qualifies it for global city status.

Following my arrival in Barcelona, the first place of my visit has been the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia by Antoni Gaudi. The Basilica is the most visited monument in Spain. Its architecture and unique facades make it a work of art. It is also considered as one of Gaudi’s masterpieces. After visiting the Sagrada Familia, the next place of my visit has been the Palau Nacional. It is a building on Montjuic and is home to the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. The museum is one of the most important museums in Spain. Other important sites on Montjuic include the Magic fountain of Montjuic. I have stayed around the Placa de Carles Buigas to view the performances of the Magic Fountain of Montjuic at night. The fountain performances at night are extremely beautiful as it continues to change colors throughout a performance. Exploring the streets of Barcelona is an experience like no other as you can shop, eat and explore the culture of the city. One of my favorite streets in Barcelona is La Rambla.

I am a football fan and Spain is known for its world-famous football clubs, therefore I have been to the FC Barcelona’s home as well. The Camp Nou is a world-famous Spanish stadium that has hosted matches of the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League and the Olympics. Some of the artists that have performed in the stadium include Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Sting, Peter Gabriel and U2. After visiting the stadium, I have been to the FC Barcelona’s Megastore. The store is located in the Camp Nou premises. It is the world’s best FC Barcelona Megastore and offers the finest collection of football products including clothing, footwear and accessories.

Next I have explored more of the Montjuic by Teleferic de Montjuic. The Teleferic de Montjuic is a cable car that runs from a lower terminus adjacent to the Montjuïc Park upper station of the Montjuïc funicular, and climbs higher up the Montjuïc hill to a terminal near the Montjuïc Castle on the summit of the hill. Montjuic offers panoramic views of Barcelona. In addition to the panoramic views of Barcelona, Montjuic features many attractions as well. Among the attractions on the Montjuic, the Montjuic Castle remains my favorite.

Taking a cruise is one of my favorite activities no matter where I go. The Port Vell is a waterfront harbor in Barcelona. It is a top tourist attraction of the city that attracts millions of visitors from across the world. It also features Maremagnum, a shopping mall that also features a multiplex cinema, bars and restaurants. The Port Vell also features Aquarium Barcelona that has a huge collection of aquatic animals ranging from Rays to Sharks. Taking a cruise in Barcelona is unlike taking a cruise in any other country as the tides of the Balearic Sea (in the Mediterranean Sea) are the strongest that I have ever experienced. However, the Mediterranean Sea is beautiful with its clear blue water and one can enjoy the view of W Barcelona during the cruise as well. For beach lovers, Barcelona has the famous Barceloneta Beach.

After taking the cruise, one can enjoy visiting other notable landmarks in Barcelona such as the Christopher Columbus Monument, Gothic Quarter and Barcelona Cathedral. The Park Guell by Antoni Gaudi remains one of my favorite landmarks in Barcelona. Due to my love for the art, I have visited the Museu Picasso Barcelona. The museum houses one of the largest collection of works by the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. The Placa de Catalunya is a large square in central Barcelona. Some of the city's most important streets and avenues meet at Plaça de Catalunya, such as Passeig de Gràcia, Rambla de Catalunya, La Rambla, and Portal de l'Àngel, in addition to Ronda de Sant Pere, Carrer de Vergara, and Carrer de Pelai. It is famous for its fountains, statues, flocks of pigeons that gather in the square and its proximity to some of Barcelona's most popular attractions.