Feb 10, 2009: Mention Barcelona and one of the first things that springs to mind is Gaudí. Mention Gaudí and most people will immediately get a mental image of bizarre church spires.

The Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) cathedral was, of course, near the top of our list of things to see, but it is only a fraction of the incredible influence Antoni Gaudi had on Barcelona before his untimely demise when he was run over by a streetcar.

In an age where shopping for daily necessities has become a sterile chore in cloned hypermarkets filled with trolley-pushing zombies, it’s always refreshing to pay a visit to markets that feel like the beating heart of a living, breathing community (there’s a word I miss). If you find yourself on a short visit to Barcelona, and want an all-round taste of what makes the city special, put a trip to the Mercat de la Boqueria at the top of your list.

Feb 9, 2009: Just after 8pm, Isa texted us to make plans for dinner. She told us she knew a nice Catalan restaurant and a Japanese restaurant and asked which one we’d prefer. There was a wee bit of hesitation because of me (couldn’t stop thinking of fresh tender sushi).
But we were in Barcelona, a city famous for its food. And our priority for food when we’re travelling is always to try the local food as much as possible.

Feb 9, 2009:Before we got to Barcelona, I made a rough itinerary for each day. It was quite a tight schedule to be honest, but it’s better to have more choices when you’re travelling.
On Sunday, we went to bed after midnight. We had planned to get up at 7 to see the Boqueria market and head for Montserrat for the whole day. But we got up late (no surprise), and left Isa’s house at about 9.

Feb 8, 2009: A few days before leaving Dublin, we realised Barça would be playing at home while we were there. We checked the website and found there were still tickets available.
The site is very well organised. You can book specific seats, and even check photos that show you the view from the seat before you book.