“It is 6pm, time to get it up!” These words because a natural part of our life in Spain.

Siesta.

A time of rest and recharging during the day. The kids would roll off the couches (their beds in our Air BnB) and we would start to come to life. By 7pm we were out the door exploring and come 10pm would be ready to settle in for dinner. Surprising, right?

This is part of the Spanish culture that is not to be missed! At 10pm you are out with the locals, families, children, elders, eating tapas (an assortment of appetizers) and drinking grapa. The vibrancy of this life-style shines through in not only the eating but in the very way of life. We didn’t spend much money on entertainment here because it is just not necessary…….money doesn’t always buy experiences. Experience the cultlure. Find the hidden roads. Local short cuts.

Experience life like a local and don’t forget these budget-friendly ideas:

1. Take a walk down La Rambla. It is a part of town that begs to be discovered! The colors, smells and vibrancy is unparalleled. Be sure to stop into the outdoor market to try fresh squeezed juice, and charcuteries.

2.  Make yourself a Google Maps Saved Search for all the Gaudi buildings and make sure to take note when you walk by one. You will probably recognize the distinct architecture but we had fun trying to pick them out as we would pass through town on other sightseeing adventures. Spend a morning walking through the Park Guell for some more remarkable sites by Gaudi.

3. Take the train to Stiges. Just a short hour ride, the beach was beautiful but the town knocked our socks off. So much so, we went back twice! 

4. Speaking of siesta, sitting down for a later dinner opened itself up to munching on a variety of tapas. We went to several cafes where they would have a case of a variety of appetizers- stuffed crudites, fish, cheeses and you choose what you wanted and went back to grab more if you needed it. At the end they count how many plates you took and that is how the bill is calculated. We were able to eat out as a family of five, some delicious tapas meals with cocktails for around $50.

5. Visit the Fountain of Magic. Although it was so crowded the kids felt this was a highlight of their time there. A water show with magic spacing several fountains in front of the government building. It was unique and worth it!

 Adios Barcelona. 

xoxo- Jess