Tips on Seeing the Palau Dalmases Flamenco Show in Barcelona

Photo Credit: Palau Dalmases

Although there are lots of places to watch flamenco dancing in Barcelona, Spain,  it becomes an unforgettable experience when you find an authentic, high-quality show.  One of the most memorable nights we had in Barcelona was when we visited the Palau Dalmases. I can hardly wait to tell you all about it!

Where is Palau Dalmases located?

Tucked into the dark side street of Calle Montcada, the former Baroque Palace hosts nightly performances.  Since it is right near the Picasso Museum, we decided to visit the museum before our show. You may miss this unimposing doorway if you’re not paying attention.

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Tips on Visiting Park Gϋell: A Gaudi Masterpiece in Barcelona

If you’re looking for a place to truly see the masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, a Spanish architect and an overall hero in Barcelona, Park Gϋell is the place you’ll want to be.  I’m sure Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s famous church, is on your itinerary, and if it’s not then you’ll definitely be missing out. (Click here for tips on a perfect visit to Sagrada Familia.) But today is all about the outrageous architecture of Park Gϋell!  First, I’ll fill you in on ten tips to make the most of your visit, and then I’ll take you on a little tour of my favorite areas of the park.

FIRST OFF…WHAT IN THE WORLD IS PARK GϋELL?

Park Gϋell (pronounced Gwell, as my cab driver corrected me) was intended to be a housing development for the wealthy citizens of Barcelona.  Eusebi Gϋell contracted Gaudi to design it, but the plans fell through because of lack of interest and funds and only two out of the 60 planned houses were actually constructed there.  The city, who has a love…and I mean LOVE for Gaudi, turned it into a public park. It is now one of the most visited places in Barcelona.

READY FOR SOME TIPS?

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Tips on Visiting Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s Must-See Creation in Barcelona

One name you will hear repeated throughout your visit in Barcelona, is of the Catalonian architect, Antoni Gaudi.  He is a hero in these parts and after taking one look at his creations, you’ll see why.  Sagrada Familia, a Roman Catholic church, is one of Gaudi’s most famous creations.  Construction began in 1883 and he worked on it until his death in 1926.  Construction continued throughout the years and as of now it is about 70% complete.  But don’t let the fact that it’s not finished stop you from visiting because it is hands-down the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen.  It is my #1 recommendation for Barcelona, but trust me…lots of people will have it on their agenda too, so here are…

10 Tips for a Perfect Visit to Sagrada Familia

BUY YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE…SERIOUSLY!  This is the one tip that I would stress the most.  I felt so bad seeing the look on people’s faces when they showed up at the gates and saw the sign that read, “No tickets left for purchase today.” The best way to purchase tickets is through the website.  You can keep your tickets right on your phone, or print them out. (FYI…I always print out my tickets and keep them on me as a backup.) I would recommend buying tickets at least 2-3 weeks in advance.  (I’m pretty sure they are available 2 months ahead of time.)

GET THERE ON TIME: Tickets are allocated in 15-minute time slots and they are not joking when they say you MUST be there at your assigned time.  They do this so it keeps the entrance to the church running smoothly, so don’t expect them to make an exception for you.  I’ve heard they will turn you away if you miss your time slot and that would be a waste of money.  Once you get inside you can stay for as long as you want.

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A Tourist in Spain During the Barcelona Protests

After I posted some pictures during my trip to Barcelona last week, people have been emailing me with tons of questions about what was going on while I was there since my pictures included burning cars and officers with guns.  People have been wondering if it is safe to visit Barcelona during the protests.  So, I thought I would answer all of the questions I’ve been getting, since it was unlike any trip I’ve ever taken.  Here we go…

WHAT WERE THE PROTESTS ABOUT?

On Monday, October 14, a Spanish court handed down lengthy jail terms to 9 Catalan leaders for their role in a 2017 secession attempt.  People were outraged, so it sparked a week-long protest throughout the streets of Barcelona, the highways, and airport. I had a flight into Barcelona that Wednesday…two days into the protests.

WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE YOUR TRIP TO PREPARE? WERE YOU NERVOUS?

I’m not gonna lie…I came really close to canceling my trip. I was afraid of flying in because I had heard on Monday people were stuck at the airport and many had to either sleep on the floor or walk with their luggage for six miles on the highway to get to the subway since there was no transportation leaving the airport. My husband was already in Barcelona for work, and he wouldn’t tell me to come unless he felt I would be safe, so that helped me feel less anxious.  He also hired me a driver that would be waiting for me at the airport.

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October Product Roundup: Products I Loved While Camping This Summer

As many of you know, we spent A LOT of time outdoors this summer camping each weekend while our house was being built.  We got to experience lots of different products and these are a few of my favorites! So…the Product Roundup for September is all about products you can use while CAMPING! Enjoy!

Kachula Adventure Blanket

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM:  When you’re traveling, you need to expect the unexpected.  This blanket is the most versatile I’ve seen.  You can take it with you to the beach, the park, camping, on road trips…it’s endless. Feeling sleepy? This blanket stuffs into itself so you can use it as a pillow.  It also has a snap-attached hood so it can be used as an emergency poncho.  There are many colors you could choose from.  Personally, I wouldn’t have chosen the camouflage one, since there were several others that are more my style.

WHAT ELSE I LOVE ABOUT THEM: The top of this blanket is made from a soft flannel material and the bottom is a water-resistant nylon.  We used it last weekend at a soccer game.

COST: $47

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2 Day Itinerary for a Solo Getaway to Stowe, Vermont

The start of the school year has gone off with a bang…theater rehearsals, soccer practice, homework, tests, and even a fractured foot for one of my kiddos.  October was looking to be even more crazy, so I was thrilled to  head to Vermont for a little relaxation. My tires practically burned as a sped off with my music blasting for my three-hour drive to one of my favorite states.  I love autumn in New England and was thrilled to see that the leaves were just starting their dazzling display of colors. 

Let me show you how to spend 2 perfect days in Stowe, Vermont…

Day 1: (Mine was a Sunday)

Your first stop is to Cold Hollow Cider Mill. There is an explosion on your senses as you walk through the door.  There are so many locally-made products that you won’t know where to look first.  I loved that they have a beehive there enclosed in glass (pic) and you can actually buy honey that is produced by these bees.  I can’t wait to taste some.

  Since it is a cider mill, you have to taste their warm cider donuts.  What?  It’s not like you have a choice…lol! Head on over to their Apple Core Luncheonette and Brew.  Try the “Vermont To the Core” (bacon, apple slices, cheddar and apple jelly) and a glass of their hard cider, Barn Dance. (You may want to pick up some cans or a growler to bring home!)

If you’re lucky enough to be there on a Sunday, drive to the Stowe Farmer’s Market that takes place from 10:30-3:00.  Everything is made local…soap, dips, cheese, wooden trays, pottery, wine, honey, jewelry…endless! There is even live music.

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Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa

My family are my favorite people to travel with, but fall sports and theater take up a lot of their time, so sometimes I get to travel solo. I’ll miss them but it’s always nice to have some alone time to relax and recharge.  My husband took over my mom duties while I slipped away to the stunning Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa, for two nights.

Read all about my stay…

Beauport, Sleeper-McCann House: A Hidden Gem in Gloucester

Another hidden gem in Gloucester is the gorgeous Beauport, Sleeper-McCann House.  This stunning piece of architecture was the summer home of interior designer, Henry Davis Sleeper.  It is a 14,200 square foot work of art that is perched on a lovely piece of property overlooking Gloucester Harbor.  He used the house to show off his interior decorating skills to potential clients, as well as a summer retreat that he loved to share with friends and family.

This beautiful home has twelve bedrooms, eight bathrooms and twelve fireplaces (some worked and some were there for effect).  Here are some of my favorite spots in the house:

    Amber glass is displayed in this back-lit area when you walk into the house.

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    Hammond Castle: Explore a Castle on the Coast of Gloucester

    When in Gloucester, Massachusetts, the number one place you MUST visit is Hammond Castle, an actual European castle perched high on a bluff on a stunning New England shoreline. You will feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you explore the grounds of this magical place. Built by John Hays Hammond, Jr, a scientist, inventor, and art connoisseur, it was completed in 1929 as a wedding gift to his wife. He was one of the most eccentric man I’ve ever heard about and you’ll learn all about him throughout your visit.  Let me show you around…

    IT ALL STARTS OUTSIDE

    Peek through the arches to see Gloucester Harbor and Eastern Point light.

    It is such a peaceful spot as you look out at the water.

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    Liberty Hotel, Boston…Don’t Bail Me Out

    Photo credit: Liberty Hotel

    Who would have guessed that prison could be so romantic?  The Liberty Hotel is housed in the exact building of the Charles Street Jail, a national historic landmark. Completed in 1851, this jail once house some of Boston’s most historic inmates, and now you can call it home for the night. It has a nice blend of  high-style luxury and hometown warmth. Trust me…you won’t be asking anyone to bail you out!

    Read all about our stay!