How Barcelona Changed My Life as a Nomadic Writer
As a nomadic writer, every city offers something different - and Barcelona, Spain, is no exception. It's a vibrant city filled with rich culture, breathtaking architecture, and delicious food.
From the Gothic Quarter's ancient streets to the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the city inspires creativity at every turn. But let's be honest, being a writer can be challenging. It can sometimes feel lonely and disconnected, and that's why I love the nomadic lifestyle.
Moving from city to city, I meet new people and experience new things that fuel my writing. Barcelona is an excellent place to indulge in my nomadic aspirations. With plenty of coworking spaces, finding fellow creatives and getting inspired is easy. Plus, the warm Mediterranean weather and relaxed pace of life make it easy to balance work and play.
But the real treasure of Barcelona is the food. From tapas to paella, the city is a foodie's paradise. It's been said that the best way to experience Barcelona is through its food, and as a writer, I couldn't agree more.
Of course, with any city, there are challenges. For one, Barcelona is a bustling city that attracts many tourists. But if you're willing to venture off the beaten track, you'll find hidden gems and quiet corners that are perfect for writing. Another challenge is the language. While many locals speak English, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases to get by. It's a small effort that shows respect for the local culture and can lead to some great conversations.
So, if you're a writer looking to experience a new city, Barcelona should be at the top of your list. There's something for everyone here, from the vibrant culture to the delicious food, but be warned, if you rent an apartment in the Gothic Quarter, expect locals and tourists alike to be up until 3 am. Their voices echo off the stone walls, and if you're a light sleeper or have young children, I'd recommend doing more research on where to book your stay. I can speak from personal experience that Barcelona likes to party.
During the evenings, Barcelona moves at a slower pace, which initially confused me. As an American, I'm used to being rushed out of cafes and restaurants the moment I'm finished eating. Here in Barcelona, however, the servers are much more laid back.
No one rushes you out the moment your plate is clean. In fact, it can be a while until a server walks up to your table to see if you need anything else or if you want to pay the bill. So don't mistake their absence for being rude or dismissive. It's expected of you to linger and talk for a while, and it's considered rude to hurry the staff for a check once you've finished eating.
Being here, I learned that it was okay to take up space and to take your time enjoying conversation and leisurely moments with your friends and family. Meals here are meant to be enjoyed and last for hours. So don't feel like you've been forgotten by the staff when you visit. Be patient and enjoy yourself. Nothing is more important than the connections we make with each other.
This lesson has forever changed my perspective on life. Slowing down and savoring the little moments sparks more than inspiration and creativity, but it also feeds the soul.
Tips: make reservations in advance, especially for the weekends. Some places don't take reservations, so you'll want to be the first customer the moment they open, or you might be waiting for hours to get in. Caravelle is one of those places where you'll need to arrive as soon as they open. Their food is great, and they are busy all day long. I highly recommend going for breakfast.
A coffee shop I recommend trying is called Nomad Coffee - Lab & Shop. This place has the best pour-overs and flat whites in the city. Walk down a beautiful alley and enjoy a great range of coffees from around the world. This place doesn't offer sugar, and they take their time with every pour.
Just around the corner from Nomad Coffee is a contemporary Spanish cuisine & sangria restaurant called Casa Lolea Barcelona. They are known for their exclusive sangrias, and their tapas and meals are not only inexpensive but so-so tasty! They do take reservations, which I'd recommend for lunch or dinner, but I had no issues walking in during breakfast.
As a nomadic writer, Barcelona has been the perfect place to get inspired, meet new people, and create your next masterpiece!