Barcelona
BUSINESS

ON THE LONELY TRAIL IN BARCELONA

“There are no lonely spots in Barcelona. Nevertheless, you can enjoy yourself here during your business trip – and you can’t get around it.”

Although the journey was neither lonely nor suitable for business, of course I should have known that. I travelled to Barcelona by cruise ship, on which I had to do business. And it was my first cruise after a long time. After leaving the thickest steamer in the world – the Symphony of the Seas – alive and slightly irritated by the many fellow passengers, I set out to search for the lonely spots of Barcelona. Without success – the city is a magnet for visitors. Not surprisingly, it embodies a southern lifestyle like no other together with a huge sightseeing package.

Business Transportation

Those who do not anchor on a cruise ship in Barcelona will land at the international airport Barcelona-El Prat. Scheduled and charter airlines offer mass flights all year round. From here you can quickly get to the city by train or taxi. And in the city itself, the metro is a pretty reliable companion. Those who have the time and the muse can also walk uninhibitedly and freely through the streets. Barcelona still belongs to the prototypes of the European city in which one can simply start walking and discover.

Away from the tourist trap Las Ramblas, the crossing of which one only survives undamaged with stoic calm or as a participant of a Japanese travel group, Barcelona is a blossoming beauty. A must are the visit of the “unfinished”, the Sagrada Familia, a walk in the park Güell and a visit to the great Museu Picasso that above all shows the youthful works of the master. For those interested in culture, I recommend the Barcelona Card, which can be booked online. Thusly, there is no queuing at most attractions.

Business Stay

The Spanish NH Hotel Group in Barcelona operates four hotels at once. The Collection Podium, not far from the Plaça de Catalunya, presents itself in new splendour. The small suites with balcony and two separate rooms are modern, but not “over-designed”. The bed is mighty (comfortable) and the bathrooms have been beautifully renovated. The pool with a rooftop bar overlooking the old town is a hotspot for night owls in summer. An absolute hit is the sumptuous breakfast buffet, on which you can find really fresh juices and a large selection of homemade bread as well as regional specialities (Blutwurst & Co.). Gracias!

Business Food

Those who go ashore after a cruise without a few kilos more have not understood the concept. The situation is similar in Barcelona. The legendary tapas – small snacks, hot or cold – are available all day long. Add one or two glasses of white wine (don’t touch the sangria, a guarantee for headaches!) – and the belt has to be pushed out one hole further again. The rustic classic for the first round of tapas in the evening is the “Cerveceria Catalana”.

Not far from the Catalan capital, Ferran Adrià operated his gourmet temple “El Bulli” for many years as a Mecca of modern culinary art – and it was to be feared that he would not open a new restaurant after the many “laboratory years”. But now he has returned to the city as a partner of the “Bodega 1900” – and cooks honest, local dishes at the star level. Make sure you make a reservation, this place is also very trendy!

Quick Getaway

Without having to leave the city, but still want to know more quiet corners? Maybe even by bicycle, which is available on the hundreds of rental stations in the city? In any case, a visit to the German Pavilion, which Mies van der Rohe designed for the 1929 World Exposition, is also worthwhile. Or take the cable car ride up Montjuïc and into the old Olympic grounds. From the visitors’ grandstand of the swimming stadium, you have one of the best views of the city ever.


Kai Böcking …

thinks Barcelona has a real overtourism problem. Nevertheless, the metropolis is of course worthwhile, and there are so many that want to come. Not least because the Mediterranean Sea, with its thousands of destinations, is at your feet.

 

Fotos: © iStock.com/IrinaSafronova, NH Hotel Collection Podium, Bodega 1900/moitorne.com

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