Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

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Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

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Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

Share this post: on Twitter on Facebook on Google+

Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

Share this post: on Twitter on Facebook on Google+

Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

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Barcelona – this year’s port city for the Tale Of The Kraken – is easily one of the world’s coolest cities. It’s one of those places where after a short wander around you find yourself wishing you could move there: the music, the arts, the shopping, the nightlife…the whole package just screams SEXY.

In June, Shipsomniacs from across the globe will descend upon the city looking to get the most out of their time in this vibrant location – we recommend giving yourself at least three days to explore and party. If you’re feeling overwhelmed for choice, don’t worry: we’ve got you covered.  This past fall we spent a week scoping out the city and fell in love with everything the city had to offer.  Here’s some of our top recommendations for touring, shopping, dining, where to stay and, of course, nightlife.

What to eat, and where to eat it?
Foodies get ready to get your foodie fix on as there’s mind-blowing cuisine to be had and it’s easy to find.  Stick to these top tips and you’re guaranteed a delightful culinary experience:

1. Eat at an one of the outdoor restaurants in La Rambla:  Just take a stroll down the bustling pedestrian street of “La Rambla” and you’ll be greeted with beautiful hostesses tempting you to sit and enjoy a meal in one of the many outdoor restaurants.  Order up some tapas, paella and a jug of sangria with your friends to split while you watch the people walk by.  This is what Barcelona is all about.
2. Go to ‘El Nacional’, trust us:  We came across this place out of pure luck and we were left with our jaws open. El Nacional is a new multi-zone culinary concept.  Think of it as an uber hip food court made up of amazing restaurants and bars filled with sexy locals.  There’s a meat restaurant, a fish restaurant, a tapas and rice restaurant and a fast deli restaurant in four distinct areas, as well as 4 bars specialised in: beer, wine, cava and cocktails.  
3. Get the “Jamon Experience”:  When in Spain it’s hard to leave the country without getting served a plate of jamon, or Iberian cured ham, and one of the best places to get it is at the Jamon Experience, also located in the Ramblas area.  Watch as the master butchers gently slice the thinnest pieces of melt-in-your-mouth jamon straight from the cured leg of pig.  Take some samples and then order your favorite.  Enjoy this nice appetizer with some olives, white wine or Estrella Beer and some freshly baked bread with garlic butter.  

Where to shop?
If you’re looking to get some shopping done, Barcelona is not short on bustling shopping streets or chic boutiques to help lighten your wallet. Honestly, leave some extra space in your luggage because the fashions and clothes here are just too good to pass up.

1. Las Ramblas: we just can’t get enough of this area! Take a stroll around Barcelona’s most famous shopping district and get lost in the small winding side streets. There’s enough shopping here to last you a week and still want more and it’s not just for girls, guys too will have lots of options. We still have unfinished business here ourselves and can’t wait to come back!
2. El Born: another cool area full of small boutiques where Barcelona’s most stylish crowd sources their clothing. One of the best places to get a new outfit from some of the city’s independent fashion designers or find some vintage gems. Even if you don’t shop, just wandering the small streets is incredible.
3. Get your costume ready: remember the Shipsomnia Ball will be held on the last night of the cruise and we expect to see your best efforts in dressing up! If you need to pick up a last-minute accessory head to Party Fiesta near Las Ramblas, one of Barcelona’s largest costume outlets.

What to see? Gaudi, Gaudi and more Gaudi!
Home to  some of the greatest artists of the last century, including Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí and Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona is one of the world’s best cities for sightseeing. Shipsomnia will have some official tours that will be released before the cruise – sign up and you’ll not just get to know the best that Barcelona has to offer, you’ll get to meet other Shipsomniacs and form a nice new party crew for the ship! We’ll release details a month before so watch this space.

Famously the artist Antoni Gaudí designed many of Barcelona’s buildings and we highly recommend that you check out some of his unique architecture around the city. There’s just too much to see in this city in one go, but definitely don’t leave without first checking out one of the following, and yes our top three places are Gaudi, Gaudi and Gaudi:

1. Marvel at the Sagrada Família: one of the best examples of Gaudí’s work is at the massive Sagrada Família, a huge neo-Gothic structure and one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings!  And you must go inside, it’s even more impressive than the outside.
2. Hang out in Park Güell: cruise around this beautiful landscaped park peppered with some of Gaudí’s finest creations.  This guy was seriously the man! He loved to use all kinds of media in his architecture, including ceramics and glass, and so areas of the park and the benches he designed are lined with colourful and captivating mosaics. Can you spot ‘El Drac’ (The Dragon), Gaudí’s iconic mosaic salamander?
3. MTV Cribs Gaudi Style at Casa Batllo: Gaudi was also hired for smaller private projects and designed an apartment called Casa Batllo. The owners definitely got their money’s worth because Gaudi didn’t hold back and while not as big as some of the other places, it’s still quite impressive.  Take the virtual tour of the place, it’s well worth it.  

Where to sleep?
Barcelona has a big choice of accommodation from AirBnBs to hotels. In terms of district, we would recommend staying in the Las Ramblas area as it’s lively and a great base for exploring the city!  Personally we grabbed an AirBnB, but we did some research and found these cool places too:

1. On a budget but still talking boutique: Room Mate Carla in Barcelona city centre offers affordable but well-designed accommodation, a stone’s throw from the action.
2. Looking for an ultra-hip pad? To really get into the artistic vibe of the city, how about staying at a painter’s place? Or if you’re looking for hotel-level luxury, the 5-star W Hotel Barcelona has panoramic views over the ocean and even hosts regular Sunday brunch ‘Retox’ parties at its pool bar for Shipsomniacs who just don’t want to stop!
3. If you’re bringing a crew: this giant AirBnB near to the Sagrada Família has 5 big bedrooms and enough space for 14 people! Or if your Shipsomnia crew isn’t quite that large (this year), this duplex apartment has a big roof terrace and will sleep up to 8 people.

Where to Party? The Shipsomnia Barcelona pre-party and Birthday Bash!
Don’t forget! Shipsomnia will be hosting its official Pre-Party in Barcelona on the 13th of June which just happens to also be the birthday of Shipsomnia’s co-founder and CCO, Jay Slangen.  We’ve given him specific orders not to get involved in the planning of this.  We’ll be announcing the details on our official Shipsomnia App which will be launched a month before we set sail. The pre-party will be a great place to meet fellow Shipsomniacs and forming a new crew of friends before setting sail. Keep an eye on the #LiveTheJourney blog for more details on the app launch as we announce them!

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