1. Polish your Spanish or Learn your Basics. The majority of travel guides will tell you that both hotel dwellers and locals are familiar with English, but this was far from true during my visit. My Spanish is weak, so navigating around the city and communicating was incredibly challenging. Granted, familiarity varies between regions, but I would advise you to either buy a travel dictionary from your local bookstore or enroll in a few introductory classes.
2. Learn your Maps. For Americans, European maps are impossible to read! WARNING: Barcelona has no street signs. Instead, signs are located on buildings. If you do not acquaint yourself with the maps and the city, it is very easy to get lost
3. Plan around Siesta. Take breaks between 2 and 5. Most retail stores, restaurants and bars are closed between these hours. If you plan activities with no regard for siesta, it can be very frustrating, trust me!
4. Beware of Pick-Pockets. Keep your belongings close. Always keep your purse/ bag in front of you. Spain is notorious for inconspicuous well-trained pick-pockets. Better safe than sorry.
- Look up colleges offering language classes, most are quite inexpensive
- Visit Youtube for very basic Spanish tutorials, free of charge!
2. Learn your Maps. For Americans, European maps are impossible to read! WARNING: Barcelona has no street signs. Instead, signs are located on buildings. If you do not acquaint yourself with the maps and the city, it is very easy to get lost
3. Plan around Siesta. Take breaks between 2 and 5. Most retail stores, restaurants and bars are closed between these hours. If you plan activities with no regard for siesta, it can be very frustrating, trust me!
4. Beware of Pick-Pockets. Keep your belongings close. Always keep your purse/ bag in front of you. Spain is notorious for inconspicuous well-trained pick-pockets. Better safe than sorry.