Barcelona, Spain

 
Wherever you are in Barcelona, there's always something to see nearby around the neighborhood or district: jewels of home-grown Catalan architecture, modernisme, and contemporary architecture, markets that are a treat for the senses, treasures of the ancient Roman and medieval city, parks where you can unwind … And the best thing of all is, you don't have to be a great explorer to find and discover all of Barcelona’s neighborhoods.
 
Barcelona's markets are places where you can enjoy a lively, vibrant atmosphere in surroundings where the cries of the market’s stallholders and the daily bustle intermingle. Few cities in the world can boast a network such as that of Barcelona: 39 food markets and 4 markets selling other goods form a unique heritage that should be maintained and preserved. The stalls are a showcase for a whole host of fresh produce. The Boqueria Market, on La Rambla, is one of Barcelona's best-known markets, and has become a major landmark.
 
One of the best ways to enjoy Barcelona is with your taste buds. You'll find an amazing gastronomic culture ranging from reasonably priced daily set menus to internationally renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, together with traditional and creative tapas and tasting platters, or a glass of vermouth and a snack on a terrace with views of the Mediterranean.
 
Discover all the secrets of wine and cava by visiting some of Barcelona's most impressive wineries, including five Designations of Origin (D.O.). You'll be able to taste wines and cavas, wander among the vines and admire true architectural treasures.
 
There are two official languages in Catalonia: Catalan and Spanish, and there are more and more people in the region who understand and speak English. You're sure to get by.
 
Public transport such as the metro, tram and FGC are the quickest, simplest and most convenient way of getting around Barcelona.

 

Majestic Hotel 

With almost a century of history, the stylish Majestic Hotel & Spa is located in a neoclassical building in the heart of Barcelona in the Passeig de Gracia. Following the recent completion of an ambitious renovation project, the Majestic embodies the timeless elegance typical of the most exclusive international hotels. Also known as “the hotel of the arts”, it features an exceptional display of more than 1000 notable works of art.

Under the guidance of award-winning culinary advisor Nandu Jubany, the hotel offers sophisticated cuisine that pays homage to traditional Catalan products and gastronomy. Guests can savor the results in El Bar del Majestic, El Patio del Majestic, and in the hotel crown’s jewel, the spectacular rooftop La Dolce Vitae, with expansive views of nearly all of the city of Barcelona. On the top floor of the hotel, is also an oasis of relaxation and well-being: the Majestic Spa, the only wellness center in Europe to be awarded with the Spa Excellence.

 

Important Information:

Passports: A valid passport is all that an American, British, Canadian, Australian, or New Zealand citizen needs to enter Spain. It is important to note when your passport expires. If you're not traveling from within the European Union, Spain requires your passport to have at least 6 months left before its expiration date

Visas:  Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to stay in Spain for less than 90 days, only a valid passport: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong & Macao (China), Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Singapore, South Korea, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela.  If your passport is from a country not listed above it is your responsibility to research the Visa requirements.

Converters: Spain has 220 volt electricity, meaning unless your computer or appliance is dual voltage or designed for 220 volts, you will need a converter/adapter.  Most common electronics are dual voltage (laptops, smartphones, etc) but most hair dryers, electric shavers, and straightening irons are not.  Also note some older cameras are not dual voltage.  Non-European travelers will need to use an adapter to plug in American-style plugs (two flat prongs) into European outlets (which take two round prongs).   Same will go for all non-European offices.

Safety:  We recommend all attendees to leave valuables back at home, especially jewelry (watches are the top theft & large engagement/wedding rings are targets).  Unfortunately Barcelona has been known historically for pickpockets so it's best to bring as little as possible out when exploring the city (especially in crowded areas or on public transportation).  For women we recommend wearing a bag across the body versus over the shoulder and please remember not to leave your bag on the back of your chair during meals.  If at all possible, leave your brand named purses at home and travel light!  We recommend men place their wallets or money clips in their front pockets to make it more difficult on pickpockets. 

Most importantly please make a copy of your passport and email it to yourself or keep it easily accessible on file.  The easiest way to do this is to take a picture of you and your guest's passport and email each other the picture!   This way in case of theft then the process of replacement with the US Embassy is quicker if you have a copy of your passport easily accessible.  Also once you arrive in Barcelona we recommend leaving your passport in your hotel safe with all additional valuables and extra money for the remaining of the trip and not carrying it on you each day!  Keep in mind its easy to use ATMs in Barcelona so no need to bring over a large chunk of Euros to cover your entire trip.

Always be aware of your surroundings and your personal items and you should not have any issues!