Becca Justinger

If you were to sum up your Barcelona experience in one to two words, what would you say? My Barcelona Experience is…

Life Changing

Explain why you chose those words.

Barcelona taught me how to slow down. Before I went abroad, I was always rushing and sweating the small stuff…but when I noticed the slower pace in Barcelona, I started to cherish the small stuff and really learn how to take a breather every now and then. Appreciating a coffee break and a long talk with a friend is sometimes all you need to turn your day around – so for me, the experience was definitely life changing.

What was your favorite place to eat in Barcelona? Favorite food?

My favorite spot was my host mother’s dining room – she always made the tastiest meals, but they were also healthy which was a huge bonus. My favorite dish was a pasta with a light sauce, and chorizo – accompanied by pan con tomate of course.

If you had one perfect day in Barcelona where would you go, and what would you do?

This is almost impossible to answer…because if I could fit everything into one day, I would!

I’d start the day by eating breakfast on the beach while watching the sunrise, then I would work my way through the gothic quarter to see the geese in the Cathedral, making sure to stop in the boqueria for gelato and an empañada. Next up would be Gràcia to do some shopping in the small boutiques…not hesitating to stop and eat get a yummy man shaped donut at Boldú. Afterwards, I would head up to Tibidabo to watch the children play at the amusement park and stay for the sunset over the city. Finally, I would head to Calle Blai for delicious and endless tapas to round out my perfect day.

What is one piece of advice that you have for future students coming to Barcelona?

Do everything and anything that you have the opportunity to. Leave no stone unturned, because the city has so much to offer…and with every single thing you do, you will fall more and more in love with Barcelona.