The past two weekends I have visited to very different cities in Spain, Sevilla and Barcelona, and instead of giving some half assed re-telling of the trips I have decided to present them in comparison format. As a disclaimer I loved visiting both of the cities, but neither of them are on par with Madrid!
1. I'm traveling Europe and I want a traditional Spanish experience. Where should I go?
A: Sevilla. Hands down the more Spanish of the two cities. Whether your looking for a Flamenco show, some tapas and cruzcampo, the moorish influence on Spain, famous landmarks, or just a quintessential look into the relaxed lifestyle Sevilla is the city for you. Everything moves a little slower in Andalusia. You can make an entire day out of going to the Alcázar, Plaza de Espana, and then heading to the river to relax and people watch.
2. You fucking idiot Barcelona is in Catalonia of course it doesn't feel Spanish. Haven't you learned anything over there?
A: Yes I realize all of that and I think Barcelona suffers because of it. Barcelona was really built up recently for the '92 olympic games that were held there. While it is an astonishing Modern European city with an awesome beach and waterfront, it lacks anything that signifies it as a true Spanish city. Even in the Basque Country, where the independence movement from Spain is popular as well, it is still easy to recognize the Spanish influence on the cities. Barcelona just feels brand new. It is a great place to see, but don't go there to see Spain.
3. Favorite Monument
A: La Sagrada Famalia. Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece is simply stunning. The man died well before this cathedral will be finished, but it is amazing to see his vision and completely unique style first hand. La Sagrada Famalia is hands down one of the most amazing things I have seen abroad.
4. Sevilla is way cheaper and the bar scene is out of control. Barcelona is full of night clubs if thats your scene.
5. A good amount of english can be heard in both cities. There are a ton of American students studying abroad in both cities. Also Barca is super touristy so be careful which tourist with a fanny pack you start making fun of...they'll probably understand you.
6. Better food
A: Toss up. Barca has great sea food which has a special place in my heart, whereas Sevilla has classic spanish dishes like gazpacho and salmorejo. Two cold tomato soups that are fantastic on hot and sunny days.
7. If you had to live in either city which would it be?
A: Sevilla. I just fell in love with the city and really wished I could have spent more time there.
A list of 7 seems pretty fair and in the average style of my blog. Also I can only put of the studying half of study abroad for so long. Time to start my powerpoint on the golden age of sports for Spain.
As always its getting better.
~Gruber
