Philadelphia Tribune - Index

Philadelphia Tribune - April Magazine - Blogger Nation - Index

Rita Charleston
Wow: By the time I arrived in Barcelona with my daughter, the city
had pulled out all the stops.
The sun shone brighter, the food tasted better, the people were friendlier,
and every site we visited was more magnificent than ever.
Oh, who am I kidding? Barcelona has always been one of Spain’s
most glorious cities and still is. Everyone who’s ever been there can
vouch for its splendor – starting with the magnificent architectural
displays of the famous Antoni Gaudi, whose imaginative works can
be seen throughout the city and never ceases to amaze. And if your
jaw doesn’t drop open every time you see one of his creations, check
your pulse and make sure you’re still breathing!
Situated on the northeastern coast of the Iberian peninsula and the
shores of the Mediterranean, Barcelona is the second largest city in
Spain. It’s also the capital of Catalonia, one of seventeen autonomous
communities that make up this beautiful country.
History tells us that the city dates back to the founding of a Roman
colony on its soil in the second century B.C. Modern Barcelona experienced
spectacular growth and economic revival at the onset of
industrialization during the second half of the 19th century. And from
the looks of it, it hasn’t stopped since.
During our visit we stayed at the lovely Hilton Diagonal Mar.
Graceful, elegant, with a wonderful staff quick to satisfy every need,
we were shown to our room where I stood for a long moment at the
window, staring out at the Mediterranean. It was hard to tear myself
away, but my daughter was anxious to go sightseeing. So, leaving the
wonderful ocean view, off we went.
The Hilton is outside the bustling center of Barcelona, but only
minutes away by either taxi or the metro, which is close to the hotel
and very easy to use. There’s also a mall directly across the street,
TRIBUNE MAGAZINE APRIL 2008
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