Where to begin?

I am taking Hemingway's advice in that the best way to start is simply to write down a sentence that is simple and true. Here it goes.

Barcelona is a very special place. 

Walking down las Ramblas towards the beach (see picture) in a cold spring morning, my first day in my new place of residence for the next sixth months, I felt the spring of excitement on my feet. My senses were sharp and I smelled the fresh croissants form the bakery "365" and heard the noises of the urban niche which enveloped me. I ventured a trip in the metro, navigating with the android app which turned out to be quite useless. Obviously I got lost and once on the surface I was nowhere I recognised. I take this opportunity to introducing my first advice time out: get lost! It is a wonderful thing to be completely unaware and explore for the pure sake of exploring. There is no better way to find hidden gems such as vintage stores, cool jazz clubs and architectural wonders, among others. After fumbling with a map I grabbed at the airport, I decided to man up and ask someone for directions. I nervously approached a lady walking down the street and to my great surprise, not only did she not shy away from me but she actually started a conversation! She gave me advice on cheap but tasty restaurants, museums that are a must while in Barcelona, parks to visit, etc. I was stunned to say the least. We Portuguese people are very proud of our hospitality but it pains me to admit that the Spanish might be ahead of us in this respect.   

In every post I will share the address of an establishment/location that I found during my stay and that I feel is definitely worth a visit. My first recommendation is: Chok. I recommend the Kronut or the carrot cake. Yumm...I am getting hungry just thinking about it!

Photo gallery