The Catalan Capital

Though Spain is one country, it is composed of many regions with individual personalities and customs. Most were independent kingdoms until the unification of Spain in the 15th Century by Ferdinand and Isabella(yes the Columbus couple).
The region in the northeast corner, bordered by France to the north and the Mediterranean to the east is Catalonia. With topography ranging from sun splashed beaches to snowy peaks in the Pyrenees, it encompasses varied climates. Along the Mediterranean coast is Barcelona.
With an area population of over three million inhabitants, it is Spain's second largest city and has one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. It's international airport is second to Madrid's in passenger traffic. With roots in the Roman Empire, its personality is a blend of old and new.
The Gothic Quarter is filled with medieval architecture and narrow winding streets. Large tree lined boulevards fill the newer sections with tall gleaming glass office towers. Modernism architecture is exemplified with numerous works by Antoni Guadi and his contemporaries. The Sangrada Familia is still under construction almost 130 years after it was started. Las Ramblas is the main pedestrian area with shops, cafes, street vendors and performers making it quite the spectacle on a nice afternoon.
The beach is right off of downtown to the north. This was the area for the Olympic sailing events, to the south is the cruise port along with fright. The top of Montjuic is the Olympic Stadium, offering a spectacular view of the city and surrounding countryside.
Barcelona, like any major city, does offer a number plenty of options for alternative lifestyles. There are numerous cafes that are gay friendly and a variety of bars to quench your thirst after a strenuous day of sightseeing and shopping. the popular resort town of Stiges is a short drive to the south, so do not forget your Damron Guide to find the best spots to keep you entertained. And contact an agent at Damron Vacations to plan your trip. Damron Vacation's offerings in Barcelona all include a breakfast which makes for an easy start to the day. So if traveling to Barcelona to explore teh city and its environs, or catching a cruise of the Mediterranean, Damron Vacations can help make all the plans.