Barcelona is a city that is full of life, excitement and energy, and I believe it's a perfect home port for Carnival Corporation's 100^th cruise ship — the Carnival Magic. My only experience visiting Barcelona was during the inaugural season of the Carnival Splendor in 2008, and I must admit that it's one of my favorite places to visit, and a definite highlight of European culture.

After scrolling through all 7 of the pictures I took in Barcelona, I remember I being so preoccupied with the amazing sights, the street performers and the incredible shopping district, that I hardly had time to pull out my camera to capture the memories! I can only remember the action packed days I spent there...

While in Barcelona, taking a tour and enjoying the breathtaking buildings designed by Antonio Gaudi is a must. These unique buildings are simply amazing; you must take a guided tour to learn more about them. Another part of Barcelona I found interesting was the Christopher Columbus statue, which you'll find standing tall near the center of the city. Apparently, this is located at the site where Columbus returned to Spain after his first voyage to the Americas. I found it intriguing that this statue points to Manhattan, where you can find a similar statue of Christopher Columbus pointing back.  Luckily, these were two of the few photos I took both in Barcelona and New York!

As you wander through the downtown area, the main street is called Las Ramblas, and this district truly comes alive as you find different street performers, magicians and musicians on every corner. The costumes are incredible. You believe you are seeing a statue... until the statue comes alive to entertain you as you meander about! For me, another highlight was the incredible shopping of downtown Barcelona. I can proudly say that three years later, I still own and wear many unique clothing items that exhibit the fast-paced European trends. I admit, some of them now have holes... they have been truly loved. (Unlike the clothes I bought in the States, which already had holes when they were purchased!)

After a long day of sightseeing and shopping, a perfect way to top it off is to sit down and enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine. Lining the streets are many bars and cafés, where you can munch on tapas and enjoy a drink; however, at night the sit-down restaurants give your taste buds something to look forward to...... mmmhmmm, drooling!

I hope you are able to take more pictures than I did. I truly miss Barcelona and eagerly await the day that I return.

All the Best,

Jaime Deitsch
Assistant Cruise Director