Walking down the streets of Barcelona, hearing “VAMOS” and “Goal” was the reality of being in the capital of Spain during its progression to win the World Cup. Every wall was filled with posters and jerseys supporting Lamine Yamal on his journey as a Spain Futbol Player.
In July, I spent one week in two major cities of Spain: Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca. Although both are part of Spain, these two places felt completely different. Barcelona captures the unique style of a European city with its famous yellow street lamps and historical architecture seemingly around every corner–even across from a McDonald’s. While Palma de Mallorca, on the other hand, felt more like a relaxing beach vacation located on an island just off the coast of Spain.
Barcelona:
Being in Barcelona during my teenage years was definitely a privilege that I am incredibly grateful for. Exploring the city and seeing Antoni Gaudí’s stunning creations, such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Mila, and the public Parque Guell, was the highlight of my trip.
Alongside the historical architecture, I got to try some of Spain’s most famous foods, including tapas and paella, at nearly every restaurant we visited. After many long days of walking, I felt like a true Spaniard, making sure to leave time for a siesta, a short nap or rest period taken in the early afternoon. Ending each day with dinner at 9 or 10 p.m, which was completely normal in Spain, gave me time to reflect with my family on our favorite parts of the day and laugh about my little sister’s obsession with Jude Bellingham. Overall, Barcelona was a beautiful city with so many things to experience, and it is a place I already miss.
Mallorca:
After spending several days in Barcelona filled with long walks and busy schedules, my family headed to the airport and took an hour-long flight to Mallorca. Landing on the largest of the Balearic Islands completely shifted our attitude from stressful, busy days to relaxing days by the Cala Mondrago. We spent the last three days of our trip in Palma de Mallorca exploring more than five calas (coves), snorkelling in crystal-clear water, jumping off rocks, and sailing along the coast. Every evening we walked to the Marina and ate delicious Spanish food and seafood while watching Spain win the semi-finals. Even though Mallorca did not have as many historical factors, I got to see a part of Spain I did not know existed. Every cove we visited felt almost unreal, and each one seemed more beautiful than the last.
Ultimately, I am incredibly grateful that I was able to experience both sides of Spain while spending an entire week with my parents and sisters. From exploring Gaudí’s architecture and eating tapas in Barcelona to snorkeling in hidden coves and watching fútbol in Mallorca.