Barcelona

I have long since been fascinated by FC Barcelona.

The team’s football enchanting, its history intriguing and home to several of the world’s top
footballers.

Couple this with my Mother’s will to visit the city; I had indeed come up with the perfect Christmaspresent.

So last week me and mum packed our bags and headed to Barcelona for a short break.

Barcelona is a city that has it all, highlands surrounding the city offering stunning panoramic views, stretches of beaches, spectacular architecture and Europe’s biggest football stadium.

The weather couldn’t have been kinder, barely a cloud was present in the sky during our four days in the city and the hotel’s location was perfect.

Situated just off the bustling Las Ramblas and Catalunya Square, the Hotel Nouvel was also just a few steps away from a metro line, very handy for exploring the city.

The city certainly feels more Catalan than Spanish, and it is refreshing to see that the city managed to maintain its identity during the civil war and Franco years.

Prior to his death architect Gaudi was responsible for many of the unique, colourful and creative building that feature throughout the city. My favourite being the half built church which is a melting pot of styles and although Gaudi didn’t get time to finish it, it is expected to be completed around 2020.

Las Ramblas is a hive of activity, featuring everything from mime artists, to street stalls selling mice and guinea pigs. Although well known for its pick-pocketting problem, I found that as long as you remain vigilant then you should be able to keep hold of your belongings.

However the main event was undoubtedly catching a game at the 98,000 Camp Nou. Although it wasn’t quite full, the visit of Sporting Gijon was still one of the most magical experiences
that I have been a part of.

Barcelona is a club steeped in tradition and although today’s team currently arguably the best team to have ever played the game, things haven’t always been so rosy.

During the civil war period FCB were seen as a vehicle of Catalan nationalism and as a result, the
government authorities cracked down and changed their name and altered club badge to make it more Spanish.

FCB also suffered at the hands of referees and corrupt officials despised the Catalans and did everything in their power to favour Real Madrid in particular.

However, the club rode through the storm and once again FCB are a proud Catalan emblem.

Experiencing a game in the Camp Nou is quite something. The locals are used to a high standard of football and demand nothing less, a misplaced pass during the second half of the Gijon
game prompted grumbles of discontent amongst in the stands.

Lionel Messi, the world’s best player, unfortunately picked up his fifth booking the week prior to our visit.

Although it was disappointing not to be able to see Messi play, Xavi and Iniesta in particular
were absolutely incredible to watch. The way Xavi moves the ball and uses his body as a shield when in possession is a lesson to any midfielder. Iniesta snakes through the smallest of gaps and always seems to have the ball glued to
his foot.

Even for the game against one of La Liga’s smaller teams, the atmosphere was great and the whole aura of FCB was mystifying.

Iniesta, Keita and Xavi netted the goals in the 3-1 win and I’m sure it would have been even more
emphatic has Pique not saw red just after half time.

Barcelona is a lively, vibrant and beautiful city and I can’t wait to visit again. Hopefully next time
Messi will be fit and available for selection!