Many would agree that Spring is the most beautiful time of year; birds chirping, buds blooming……nature’s way of a beauty revival; much like our dear Katy Holmes did when she got with that “nut” Tom…sure he’s crazy, but she’s NEVER looked better! Celebrity gossip aside, the new season conjures feelings of beauty, growth, and optimism…..all of which can inspire the perfect spring vacay! But alas, comes the argument of where to “spring” to? The Bahamas?…been there, done that….Macau?….almost the same place, only completed with casinos and Ferrari’s….the Hampton’s then? Not a chance!

One of my top choices for the perfect spring getaway would have to be the beautiful Spanish city of Barcelona! It’s the perfect city for the traveler who wants:

• Culture: Plenty of museums and local art throughout! One can NEVER be bored if they are outdoors here!

Antoni Gaudi's Park guell abodes. Once used as the park caretaker and ranger's homes, they are now a gift shop and park museum.

• Entertainment: You haven’t seen flamenco until you’ve been to a dinner theater featuring the best dancers in all of Spain!

• Nightlife: Has an entire strip of noteworthy clubs, all of which are packed with locals, BEAUTIFUL MEN, and drink specials upon entry.

Ariscestocrat at the Madrid International Airport

• Experience: One can walk to most attractions, chat with super~sweet locals…. of which, a good 70 % DO NOT speak English, which is actually fun to me! Also try touring ancient castles and monuments; you’ll never know what you’ll discover!

• Local Cuisine: Not that anybody should be eating, but you have GOT to try the authentic churros, paella (saffron-flavored dish made of rice with shellfish and chicken variations, and tapas…. de~lish!

Flamenco Dinner Theater

• Shopping: The bargain stores on the famous Las Ramblas shopping district are adjacent to the big names i.e. Prada, Louis Vuitton, and a GI~NORMOUS Carolina Herrera flagship store!

• Beaches: Complete with waters so blue they make Tiffany’s sapphires look like they’re straight outta Zales!

Antoni Gaudi's Guell Park

So tell whomever you’re going on “mini~break” with that the decision making part is over and that you are going to stay at The Hotel 1898 in Barcelona, no if’s and’s, or “what about what I want’s?”, about it!