1. The unique, cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city
2. The proximity of the sea, and that long, beautiful beach
3. ‘Chiringuitos’ – little cafes or bars set up right on the beach
4. So many sights – its impossible to be bored
5. The city’s parks, particularly Montjuic
6. The sight of the city’s older residents, invariably well-dressed, as they stroll La Rambla
7. Many restaurants and tapas bars – you’ll never go hungry here…
8. In Barcelona there’s always some holiday, street party or festival
9. The colorful shops on Verdi Street, in the Grácia district
10. The parallel streets in the Eixample district
11. Drassanes metro station
1. The continual tourist throngs – it’s always high season here, and often you can hardly move on La Rambla because of the crowds
2. It’s impossible to find quiet accommodation in the city center
3. You have to be very careful with your valuables – pickpockets are a real risk
4. Recent immigration has caused tension, which is palpable on the street
5. Restaurant opening times: they all close in the early afternoon, just when you’re getting hungry…
6. The rather reticent character of the Catalans – though there are historical reasons for it
7. Expensive for most people
8. One of the most densely populated cities in the world, making it very noisy
9. The cloud of smoke over the city, which can be clearly seen from nearby hills
10. Too many people smoking in too many places
11. in the port area, the African illegal street vendors lying around the sidewalk, the obviously drug-addict beggars in the Gothic Quarter
