THE BEST ALL-INCLUSIVE LUXURY RESORTS IN THE MALDIVES – WHERE TO STAY

EVER WONDERED WHAT IS THE MOST LUXURIOUS RESORT IN THE MALDIVES?

best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives

EXPLORE ADAARAN SELECT MEEDHUPPARU RESORT FOR UNPARALLELED LUXURY WITH A TOUCH OF TRADITION INSIDE A PRESTIGE OCEAN WATER VILLA

Fancy a romantic getaway from the typical British Weather and thinking of a paradise destination to forget about the state of the economy and the antics of politicians, well look no further as paradise has a new name, the Maldives. Imagine picturesque turquoise blue waters and clear skies, pure white sandy beaches, waving palm trees, warm inviting evening sea breezes as you sit by the ocean and sip your favourite sundowner cocktails the Maldives is the ideal location.

best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
Photo Iconic Creative
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
Photo Iconic Creative
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives

Take the Scenic Route on a Seaplane with Trans Maldavian Airways


Upon arrival to the Maldives we took a pre-booked chartered seaplane with Trans Maldavian Airways to the Adaaran Select Resorts on Meedhuparu Island in the Maldives the only way to travel in style for an unforgettable experience you’ll never forget.

Today is brought to you by the letter M. M stands for Maruhabaa a Maldivian greeting for you’re welcome!. Male the main Island where Velana International Airport is situated south of the atolls can be reached by a 45 minute seaplane from north atoll Meedhuparu the amazing resort we stayed at for 5 nights and finally the word Maldives. Make your own Mark on the world map and manifest your own Maldivian Memories.

Missing the summer sun lately? it’s time to take the plunge and book a trip to the World’s Leading Holiday Destination, the Maldives. Relax on pristine white sand dunes to exploring coral reefs and their marine wildlife or perhaps you’d like to experience the excitement of a jet ski ride off shore on an island tour excursion trail to spot some dolphins in the ocean. 

Travelling to the Maldives couldn’t be easier as most major Airlines fly from London Heathrow or Gatwick with a stopover in the Middle East such as Gulf Air whom I choose to partner with during this press trip kindly sponsored my Falcon Gold Airport Lounge access both ways at Heathrow and Bahrain. Use of Gulf Air Airport Lounge is only exclusively available to Business Class and 1st Class passengers even more reason to book with them and collect air-miles points, including priority boarding which makes skipping the security line a breeze just one of the perks of being a business class ticket holder.

Some islands however can be reached by speedboat compared to those other islands located further afield which can only be reached by Seaplane or a domestic flight transfer. Foreign currency in the Maldives that’s widely accepted in the Resorts are US Dollars which is used mostly by foreign tourist on vacation here just to give you a heads up.

best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives

On my recent trip to the Maldives I had a 5 hour stopover in Bahrain with an enjoyable luxury experience inside the Falcon Gold Airport Lounge which made travelling long haul a lot easier during my itinerary. Inside the lounge itself it was contemporary, clean and relaxing atmosphere including all the essential amenities from smart phone charge points, golf simulation, a pool table, cocktail bar to the warm welcome from attentive staff members. Shower facilities were also available on site for ease of convenience when transiting through the airport to freshen up before your next flight.

There’s even a place to get some rest in the sleep pod area which includes a warm blanket and this includes a wake up call from staff to ensure you board your flight on time. Before getting some rest there are plenty of food and beverage options with an array of sumptuous cuisines on offer served in the Gulf Air main restaurant from light snacks to main meals. The kitchen can even make you a fresh pizza from the oven on request and the best part was they had a popcorn machine and gelato ice-cream which was delightful if you fancied a sweet tooth for desert after dinner.

best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
Photo Iconic Creative
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives
best luxury all-inclusive resorts maldives

Floating Breakfast in the Infinity Pool – Experience Adaaran Resorts by Aitken Spence Hotels


Adaaran Select Meedhuparu resort offers visitors the chance to enjoy a romantic floating breakfast with fresh baked pastries, fruit, a selection of cold cuts to cheese platters served with fresh juices and to top it all sparkling wine!.

I had my morning breakfast in a quiet spot of the Prestige Water Villas Infinity pool with a view overlooking our private beach and ocean, so it felt very private. This is ideal, especially if you’re on a honeymoon or enjoying a romantic getaway for two.

For content creators Meedhuparu Island is such a stunning location for Travel and luxury lifestyle destination photography. It makes it so much easier to create stunning imagery to catch the eye of even the discerning travellers looking for wanderlust inspiration. You can capture the most exquisite moments, ranging from tranquil evening sunset horizons with a whole array of colours in the sky, to vibrant blues in hues of the serene crystal-clear waters and skyline. Also, the subtle shots using foliage to provide mystery and intriguing shadows during afternoon strolls along the beach.

Adaaran Select Meedhuparu Resort all-inclusive Prestige Water Villa’s provides excellent luxury serviced accommodation equip with your very own personal Butler during the duration of your stay who drives you around the island in a golf buggy. Just one the delightful perks being a VIP guest which makes life that little bit easier and you get to take in some sightseeing along the way. Consider walking on foot too around the island is also an option. Expect a friendly warm welcome in a tranquil setting on the ocean, glorious weather, island wildlife, not to mention the sumptuous cuisine and sunset views that take your breath away.

Meedhuparu is set in a stunning secluded location for privacy and the weather is divine, exactly what you dream of on a cold wet windy day back in the UK. The Adaaran select resort has a water sports and dive centre with all sorts of activities available from stand-up paddle boarding, to see through canoes, surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, banana boat ride to fun tube when you sit on an inflatable and get pulled along by a jet ski. 

Theres even a catamaran for keen sailing enthusiast depending on the weather. I myself attempted the jetski and funtube where I used three cameras to capture the action: one camera captured the main action and two GoPro cameras in waterproof cases on my wrist and chest harness captured all my adventure on the water.

It’s been a fantastic adventure. I’ve learnt so much. The Maldivian people are lovely, very friendly, accommodating and welcoming. The resort is fabulous: lots of different accommodation to suit all preferences, lovely restaurants from pan-Asian fusion to Mediterranean, and bars to cater to all taste, whether that be a quiet drink in beachside bar or in a livelier bar in the bustle of things at a weekly beach party. You can order meals to your room, have a romantic sand bench dinner on the beach during the sunset and dine with elegance while you gaze under the stars.

A range of water sports is available at the resort such as snorkelling or sea bob snorkelling where you take an underwater mini submarine that helps you navigate more easily whilst swimming.

Apart from catering to thrill adventure seekers that love jet skiing, fun tubing, banana boat rides, or wind surfing you can try out various excursions and key attractions such as the evening sunset boat ride and fishing trips. What more could you want from a luxury holiday destination in the Indian Ocean?

Editorial Disclaimer: PR Invite as Gifted Press Stay Experience. This Media Visit was kindly gifted by Adaaran Select Meedhupparu Resort Maldives and I am under no obligation to post about a brand whether or not I choose to do so. Also, I would like to Thank the Aitken Spence plc Marketing Team in the UK and abroad including Gulf Air Airline for Sponsoring me during my Press Trip. How I choose to work with brands on any collaboration whatsoever is always down to personal choice and preference if I feel it’s a good fit for my content and audience so I can always give my honest feedback.

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PORTUGAL’S SOUTHERN ALGARVE TIPPED TO BE EUROPE’S NEXT JET-SET DESTINATION

A GUIDE TO THE BEST BEACH CLUBS & HOTELS IN SOUTHERN ALGARVE

THE PORT OF PORTIMAO IN ALGARVE

Explore the town’s vibrant and colourful terracotta architecture down by the marina pier.

Hi guys, hope you’re all having the most wonderful time on summer vacation as these past couple of months have flown by so quickly. During my trip I will share with you some of my favourite places to visit over the duration of a long weekend break. If you enjoy scenic walks by the beach, a spot of golf at a country club and tempted by the wonders of fresh locally sourced produce it’s a culinary match made in heaven.

I’m really excited to tell you all about my recent sponsored press trip abroad to the Algarve in Portugal to review an exclusive holiday resort Blanco Beach Club. It’s situated in the idyllic fishing port town of Portimao and also my first visit to Portugal. After experiencing what this trendy enclave has to offer Portimao is deemed the next international hot spot destination for jet-setters in Europe to rival Ibiza, St Tropez and Mykonos.

 

THE BEST HOTELS IN ALGARVE

The Morgado Golf and Country Club part of the exclusive Nau Hotels & Resorts Group is your idyllic weekend escape for relaxation and to enjoy a spot of golf on the driving range just 20 mins drive from Prai de Rocha in Portimao and 30 mins from Faro Airport.

This exquisite hotel comprises of apartment complexes on the grounds of the resort which spans over 40 acres of scenic landscape in the middle of a secluded valley is just tranquil and takes your breath away.

An outdoor pool which overflows on the edge faces the scenic landscape and includes changing room facilities conveniently located next to the pool area. Explore the hotels club house after doing your rounds of golf and enjoy some lunch with friends for a catch up over some great food and drinks.

NAU HOTELS & RESORTS

My hotel suite was very impressive despite the short stay it was so worth it. A general feel of the hotel room itself had a contemporary touch as you would expect from a luxury resort to the highest standard and an outdoor patio balcony overlooking the landscape. Just check out this amazing bed which is something out of a Gossip Girl series with a velvet headboard raised as high as the ceiling fit for a Queen.

 

 

Room Service is available at a charge of course for any extra’s to stock up your mini bar if needed.

Not forgetting the walk in marble shower wet room was pure luxury defined for that unforgettable hotel weekend break.

 

 

 

Portimao is known as a small fishing town it has the very best selection when it comes fresh fish and locally sourced produce if you’re a great fan of seafood dishes while on vacation in the Algarve.

 

 

 

 


Things to try and Experience


PRAIA DA ROCHA BEACH

Praia de Rocha Beach is by far my favourite beach area in the Algarve because of its unspoiled natural sand, water sport activities including snorkelling, swimming, lively promenade of seafood restaurants and exclusive beach clubs. Each summer Praia de Rocha Beach plays host to the MTV Summer Sessions with live music and parties on the beach is highly recommended.

 

BLANCO BEACH CLUB

Portimao welcomes this summer a new addition to the area for the ultimate luxury experience in day beach club concepts also equipped as an exciting music venue that transforms into a nightclub.

Watch the day go by as you relax amongst the sumptuous sunken beds next to the idyllic seashore of the Atlantic Ocean as you listen to the upbeat DJ set playing house, dance and top 40 music. Here you can enjoy the ambience of beautiful people and great service customer service from its friendly and welcoming staff.

Blanco Beach Club is brought to you by the brainchild of Entrepreneur / acclaimed Music Producer Maximillian White has also played host to big headline acts from the Music Industry including Tyga, French Montana, Tori Lanez amongst many more.

 

NOSOLO AGUA BEACH CLUB – MARINA DE PORTIMAO

I managed to stumble across the NoSolo Agua Beach Club while taking a stroll down by the marina pier and thought it was another bar I wanted to try. It turns out this venue happens to be yet another Beach Club, but wait it has something quite unique about it. Somehow I managed to convince the friendly door staff to see if I may take a sneak peek inside. They welcomed me in as press and a lifestyle blogger kindly offering a complimentary drink on the house and free use of the pool area. It was just not any standard swimming or plunge pool in fact to my astonishment I discovered it had fresh salt water in it from the ocean was great for the skin and made you feel refreshed.

Views of the ocean and cliffs from the cabana beds had great views where you could relax the whole day and watch the sunset.

 

 DISCOVER A TASTE CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

 

THE OLD BRIDGE QUARTER

One evening a friend and I decided to take a 15 minute taxi journey from the beach into the town centre of Portimao where you could experience the best local cuisine located in the Old Bridge Quarter. Here discreetly hidden under a bridge you will find an array of authentic local sea food and grill restaurants which all vary in price and some great value for money than others. Fresh fish is the culinary dish to try in the Algarve well known for its delicious Sardine’s cooked and grilled on the wood stove, but the Sea bass was also delightful too.

Experience the fresh sea food restaurants in the old bridge quarter, wonderful stretch of unspoiled beaches and thriving cosmopolitan nightlife..

.Upon visiting Portimao expect lively promenade of seafood restaurants and exclusive beach clubs in the Southern Algarve for gastronomy to exclusive nightlife scene.

 

Editorial Disclaimer. A huge thank you to Nau Hotels & Resorts, Blanco Beach Algarve and Monarch Airlines for hosting me and for providing a wonderful, stay in Portugal. As always, all opinions are my own – all offers and promotions mentioned are at the discretion of the brands management and subject to change at any time.

A GUIDE TO LOS ANGLES & WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN LAGUNA BEACH ORANGE COUNTY

California Holidays

LOS ANGELES & ORANGE COUNTY

LA the City of Angels is home to Tinsel Town Hollywood’s film industry, the playground to the Rich and Famous boast some of the most amazing beaches, social scene to the most fabulous shopping.

I share with you some of my favourite Stylish hot spots, Trendy neighborhoods and places to visit. The first time I encountered LA I was so fascinated by the cult fashion movie Clueless I just had to come to America and fell in love with Beverley Hills 90210. If you’re also an O.C. fan Laguna Beach The Real Orange County is on the itinerary for a long weekend break as I gain access to one of the most pristine private beaches is paradise.

THE  BEST HOTELS IN LOS ANGELES

THE ROOSEVELT HOTEL

It’s one the oldest Hotels in Hollywood which lots of history so I’m told but it’s a great place to hang out in the evenings and star gaze if you can spot them. As a guest you have access to the pool area and its strictly by guest list only. The cast members of THE HILLs once hung out here and other trendy night spots in town Le Deux, Area, the Hyde club may have moved on since then.

California Holidays

For those of you that have yet to experience Tinsel town as a tourist there is so much to see especially if you’re a film buff and into Hollywood Cinema. With that said make Universal Studios a must do excursion and do the Studio Tour where you can get to know how films were made on set from the legendary King Kong, Alfred Hitchcock movies to the Desperate Housewives television series. Get close up to all time favorite tv shows, epic theme park rides and more.

Visit California

Where to take in the Best views of the LA City skyline from Roof Top Bars to Poolside Lifestyles where living the dream becomes a reality.

Visit California

Visit California

Visit California

THE POOL PARTIES

Great spots for hanging out by the Pool include The Mondrian Hotel and The Standard Dowtown LA is very chic with the Young Hollywood and Jet Set Crowd.

Visit California

Visit California

VISIT WEST HOLLYWOOD MOST FAMOUS ZIP CODES


MELROSE WEST HOLLYWOOD

Favourite neighborhood’s in West Hollywood of mine are Melrose a trendy location infamous for its notorious zip code made famous by Darren Star’s TV Show Melrose Place where aspiring 20 something’s move into an apartment block with a pool and host parties every week. Sounds like my kind of party. Not only that the shopping is great and I really love coming to this part of town to visit stores Opening Ceremony, Fred Segal and Kitson for unique designer and one of kind items of clothing.

California Holidays

Come hang at these cool LA hotspots in town from The Farmers Market and make a wish in the Grove Fountain, who knows it could be you’re lucky day.


 

A tourist hot spot for visitors especially if you’re new to LA it’s such a great place to hang out and meet friends. Also, the Grove Fountain within the market is a great place for a date it’s so romantic in the evenings when it’s all lit up. Things to do while you’re there include shopping at the retail stores such as Abercrombie and Victoria’s Secret to independent market stall vendors and excellent restaurants and bars.

Visit California

DESIGNER SHOPPING ON RODEO DRIVE

 

The walk of fame is situated on Hollywood Boulevard and you can pay homage to your favourite Celebrities past and present.

It can get very busy at times but mainly tourist attraction for first time visitors to Los Angeles and don’t forget The Manns Chinese Theatre its very grand. Are you familiar with the movie Pretty Woman this would be the street where Julia Roberts stared in the Hollywood Movie spending Uncle Edwards Money without a care in the world. Lucky Girl if you can do it. The best part I just had to visit those famous Spanish Steps where Cher in Clueless walks down to the bottom of the fountain then shops at Dior. The famous line ‘I wonder if they have that in my size’ that sums up my shopping trip to Rodeo Drive for today and it was fabulous.

 HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME

The walk of fame is situated on Hollywood Boulevard and you can pay homage to your favourite Celebrities past and present. It can get very busy at times but mainly tourist attraction for first time visitors to Los Angeles and don’t forget The Manns Chinese Theatre its very grand.

Discover the best shopping in LA has to offer on Rodeo Drive neighborhood of Beverly Hills

Visit California

Los Angeles has a coast line stretch full of beaches but Santa Monica Beach is LA’s local beach, a bit too touristy for me but you can hang out here go for a jog, rolla blade, skate or visit the amusement park on the pier for fun fair attractions and food vendors.

Visit California

Make a Weekend Trip excursion to Laguna Beach just 1 hours drive from LA

Laguna Beach Orange County is a one hour drive from Los Angeles which boast long stretches of pristine sandy beaches and clear blue water. Although it’s a very small town it’s paradise and it’s great if you can have access to a private beach depending on the location and was very lucky in this instance. Hotels in town the best place you can stay is at The Montage Hotel in Laguna CA or alternatively renting an apartment through AIR’BNB  is a great option through personal experience for a flexible stays. For designer shopping head to the South Coast Plaza Mall you can spend all day here it’s heaven for shopaholics where you will find everything from high street, mid range to luxury fashion labels is the best shopping experience you cannot miss out on and Fashion Island in NewPort Beach nearby.

California Holidays

 DISCOVER A TASTE OF CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

Pinks Hotdogs’ a take out restaurant serving the most delicious hotdogs named by Celebrities is worth stopping buy for a bite to eat if your up for experiencing some real Authentic American food while on vacation.

WOLF GANG PUCK

The Wolfgang Puck is a fine dinning group with Worldwide franchises including my favourite The Cut Beverley Hills and in London Park Lane. The renowned acclaimed Austrian Chef has worked in the finest restaurants in France and quickly garnered the attention of Hollywood’s elite with his dynamic personality, culinary skills and passion for Californian Cuisine.

Other excursions I recommend taking while in Los Angeles are taking weekend of debauchery and fun in the City of Sin Las Vegas from the infamous Strip aligned with Casino’s, Grand Hotels, Exquisite Shopping to exclusive pool lounges and vibrant Nightlife and Vegas Shows with alluring international clientele.

Editorial Disclaimer: This article was inspired by my own personal experience of being on vacation in California. As always all opinions are my own

HOW TO SPEND 48 HOURS IN IBIZA – A WEEKEND GUIDE TO THE HEDONISTIC WHITE ISLE

WHAT TO DO IN IBIZA

 

Ibiza The smallest of Spain’s Balearic islands it is a real paradise lost.

 A Hedonistic Vacation Awaits You: Escape This Summer to Ibiza. I highly recommend discovering the pristine beaches with white sands and blue lagoons of Formentera Island.

PLACES TO VISIT IN IBIZA

The Ibiza Rocks venue hotel grants guests access to weekly pool parties and live DJ sets from big name house music veterans. Meaning that the perfect party is available all under one roof. Make your summer a memorable one, let Ibiza Rocks lead the way.

SOL BEACH HOUSE MIXED BY IBIZA ROCKS

Ibiza’s new sunset destination. The 4 * hotel, formerly Sol Pinet Playa, has had a revamp which boasts an impressive pool overlooking the fine stretch of sandy beaches.

In the evenings watch the tranquil sunset whilst chilling out to the resident DJ, in the contemporary surroundings which host daily pool parties and have breathtaking panoramic views on the hotels rooftop.

Hotel guests easy access to the stretch of coast line for brisk relaxing walks. There is also water taxi’s from the pier that take you into San Antonio Town, which is the second-largest town on the island.

Hotel guests easy access to the stretch of coast line for brisk relaxing walks.

PUNTA PLAYA BEACH

Water taxi’s from the pier that take you into San Antonio Town, which is the second-largest town on the island.


Watching the Sunsets as the sun goes down to white sand dunes on Formentera Island are memorable experiences


WATER SPORTS ACTIVITIES

From jet ski’s, speed boat tours to diving it’s available from local vendors on the beach with various Bars and Restaurants including a Reggae themed bar to quench your thirst whilst you soak up the sun.

WATCH THE SUNSETS

The amazing sunsets in Ibiza are breathtaking and my ideal place to watch it from is the legendary Cafe del Mar on the beach you wont be disappointed.Its the most tranquil experience which your mind boy and soul will appreciate after a long afternoon sunbathing on the beach.

Sample the legendary nightlife scene Ibiza has to offer.

FORMENTERA ISLAND

Alternative excursions I highly recommend are discovering the pristine beaches with white sands and blue lagoons of Formentera Island. The smallest of Spain’s Balearic islands it is a real paradise lost.

CLUB LAND

It’s only 30 mins away from San Antonio Bay in a taxi to the heart of clubland with Ushuaia,

Space and the infamous Blue Marlin. Although, the legendary Cafe del Mar on the Sunset Strip is not too far away, the the Ibiza Rocks venue hotel grants guests access to weekly pool parties and live DJ sets from big name house music veterans. Meaning that the perfect party is available all under one roof.

ibiza

DISCOVER A TASTE OF CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE

IBIZA TOWN

There are so many great places to select and from a fashion insiders point of view I love STK Ibiza. If you take a stroll down by the marina pier there are a promenade of cafes, bars and restaurants to sample the Spanish tapas or other continental dishes there’s lots to choose from.

San Antonio Bay is perfect for chilling out if you prefer getting away from the hustle & bustle of the clubbers paradise.Make your summer a memorable one, let Ibiza lead the way.

Editorial Disclaimer: I visited Ibiza for a long weekend and reviewed places I stayed and give my personal recommendations. As always all opinions will be my own. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any of these entities.

A CITY GUIDE TO BARCELONA | TOP THINGS TO DO IN THE CATALONIA CAPITAL IN SUMMER

Discover the best tourist attractions, where to stay to local culinary cuisine and culture scene.

Things to do in Barcelona

Feel like a local and experience vermouth fuelled lunches, late dinners that extend into late night evening drinks til the early hours – take in the picturesque views of the Gaudi trail

Welcome to Barcelona the cosmopolitan capital situated in the Catalonia region of Spain renowned of its fabled architecture to impressive art scene. It’s laid back culture by the seaside makes it one of Europe’s coolest destinations to visit during the summer months from Trendy hotels, tourist attractions to restaurants.

Each year Barcelona attracts millions of visitors making its Europe’s top destination for holiday makers and international tourism for fantastic weather to rich cultural heritage. It’s also home to Barcelona F.C for those fans interested in Football.

Upon visiting the city you will find many attractions, sites to landmarks in and around Barcelona, but where should you start. I’ve put together a guide of the best things to do including must see tourist attraction’s and other places to make the most of your summer vacation.

WELCOME TO BARCELONA

I decided to head out town for some last minute sun. Care to join me for a short city break to catch some rays and do a bit of sightseeing. Barcelona is the most cosmopolitan city in Spain with fantastic shopping, tourist attractions to a thriving nightlife scene. It’s unique architecture, culture and history is definitely a must see to explore all this city has to offer including its landscape and beautiful scenery. During my visit I share with you some of my favourite places in this cosmopolitan city.

Things to do in Barcelona

Here are my local insider tips on where to eat, stay and drink for Top Things to do in Barcelona this Summer. If you enjoy warm weather, amazing food and cultural diversity this is the place for you to live the real Catalan lifestyle, leisure sports and fine cuisine. Head to Barcelona’s Chiringuito bars to experience some of the best beach parties in the city.

Things to do in Barcelona

Live the real Catalan lifestyle, leisure sports on the beach and taste local culinary cuisine

Things to do in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona

Take a picturesque walk along to the highest point of the city on the Gaudi trail to experience the best panoramic views of the city is the most exhilarating experience once you reach the top – take a moment to appreciate the Barcelona skyline on a warm sunny afternoon

Things to do in Barcelona

Things to do in Barcelona


Check out the nightlife scene at the W HOTEL’S Eclipse Bar on the Top Floor


The infamous W Hotel is situated along the city’s main coastline stretch of beach and host pool parties in the evenings especially on weekends catering to an international discerning clientele is the best place for people watching and a late night rendezvous at The Eclipse Bar in the top floor of the hotel.

Things to do in Barcelona

Check out the Designer Boutiques in the Gothic quarter of El Borne.

For designer shopping this is your one stop destination to finding all the style you need under one neighborhood where you can find most of the mainstream stores with no shortage of designer outlets..

PARK GUELL

To experience the highest point of the city’s altitude in Barcelona I highly recommend taking a hike up to Park Guell and take in the views of the vast landscape. Once you reach the top expect to find allot of souvenir market stalls selling everything from arts and crafts to costume jewelry which make great gifts. The Gaudi Building is also found here and is open to the public as a Museum celebrating the Architects life and home.

Things to do in Barcelona

PARC DE LIBERINTO DE HORTA

The Labyrinth Park in Barcelona is the most intriguing place to visit just North of Barcelona on the Metro line which houses The Torre Soberana an old 14th century country estate with beautiful Tudor gardens..

Get lost in the maze if you fancied taking a wonder exploring the city’s historic culture. It’s Barcelona’s oldest garden by Architect Elies Rogent. Although I did come across a high fashion editorial shoot which was happening during my visit to this famous historical landmark.

Things to do in Barcelona

BARCELONETA BEACH

The beach is where all the action happens similar to that of Venice Beach Los Angeles where the beautiful people flock as Barcelona has a community of working fashion models in the city working out in the beach gym. A range of leisure sports are available including paddle boarding and places to eat and drink along the promenade known as the Chiringuito Bars such as Moma and Budha Beach is a great dining experience on the sand.

SARGADA FAMILIA

The beautiful church in the heart of the city is something very special to admire Sargada Familia’s Gothic architecture and stained glassed windows is truly a remarkable experience to appreciate Barcelona’s rich cultural history. It reminds of the Duomo Cathedral in Milan also very beautiful inside.

Things to do in Barcelona

Discover a taste of culture through cuisine

JOANET BAR RESTUARANT

This charming little restaurant found in the Old Town of Barcelona known as the El Born quarter is within 5 mins walk of the Arc Monument where you can sample the best authentic local Spanish Cuisine. The fresh Sea Bass is my favorite and they have a selection of great wine too. It’s great value for money and I visited this place quite frequently if I ever happened to drop by the neighborhood to meet friends.

 

Things to do in Barcelona

The food here at Joanet is by far one of my favoutrite spots to dine alfresco outside during the summer with a glass of Sangria or Rioja to watch the day go by. Ever heard of Spanish Tomato Bread? then try this Catalonia delicacy is often used as a starter with main meals is created with the following ingredients of garlic cloves, fresh ripened tomatoes seasoned with sea salt and extra virgin olive. This in same ways can be compared to the Italian tomato bruschetta.

Things to do in Barcelona

Make Joanet your first stop to sample local cusine in Barcelona.

I will definitely be back on my next visit to Barcelona because I really enjoyed the freshly prepared seafood here and the atmosphere is great here I can’t recommend it enough, so please check it out next time you’re in town and let me know what you think?

Things to do in Barcelona

THE EL BORNE QUARTER FOR ITS RESTAURANTS AND LATE NIGHT BAR LOUNGES

A variety of trendy bars on the corner of El Born with delicious food and great vibes has the most amazing selection of cocktails including some venues that have live music some nights and open til late.

I just found out that the city host Barcelona Fashion Week known as 080 Barcelona where international designers Desigual and Custo Barcelona showcase their new fashion collections on the runway. I hope you enjoyed reading about my recommendations for top things to do in Barcelona. What do you think so far?

Editorial Disclaimer: As always, all opinions are my own and I will never promote something I don’t personally support and believe in.  I was on vacation in Barcelona so this a personal review only and not sponsored trip. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any of these entities.