hillary allison- who, what, where: barcelona

I realized today that I'm half way into my Euro-trip and have yet to post anything about Barcelona. Since I've been here for two weeks I've had time to pick some favorites.

1.) Passeig de Gracia aka the shopping mecca of Barcelona. This particular street houses top designers, as well as urban boutiques. Feeling trendy? Stop by Santa Eulalia which features Marc Jacobs, Christian Louboutin, Stella McCartney and many other fabulous designers.

2.) Zara. Thank you Barcelona for this import.

3.) Dow Jones is known as the stock market bar of Barcelona. Screens hanging from the top of the bar display "stocks" as the prices of your drinks actually go up and down (so wait to get that whiskey sour until it falls below 4 euro)! Order quickly though, by the time the bartender makes your drink, the price may have gone back up!

4.) Sitjes is a beautiful beach with palm trees, cute cafes and charming shops. Only a thirty minute train ride from Barcelona, this is must-visit for those trying to escape the crowded beaches of Port Olympico. Bonus for some: you can tan topless! ... I chose not to participate.

5.) Antoni Gaudi's Parc Guell was my favorite place to visit, not only for the whimsical Gaudi touches, but mostly for the amazing views.