The city of Barcelona is in Spain's northeastern region and has a well-earned reputation as one of Europe's most popular tourist destinations.

There were approximately 59.2 million foreign visitors and that made Spain the world's third most visited holiday destination, behind France and ahead of the United States, a position it has held for years.

With so many visitors vying  to enjoy the miriad of pleasures that are ofered, it is difficult to do so on a tight budget.  there are ways to overcome that and get the most out of your dollars.

Firstly, learn to get around inexpensively.  The city is pedestrian friendly and walks turn into pleasure anywhere other than the outer limits.  For that, a 10 trip card can be purchased from any railroad station.  With it city buses and underground trains can be taken for about a dollar a trip.

But there is no need to travel to the outskirts to find inexpensive accommodations and food.  Hostels in the Ciutat Vella are reasonably priced.

It is prudent to follow Spanish food customs to receive great tasting meals.  Breakfasts include coffee and toast or equivalent at a fixed price and are available at bars and coffee houses and is cheaper that ordering each item separately.  The best breakfasts are found in Barcelona's 46 markets and La Boqueria is the best example.

The most important meal is lunch.  The best meals are listed at midday as the 'menu del dia' and is usually a three-course meal including dessert and a drink at a bargain price.

Don't go just for the food, but take a tour around and when your feet get tired, take a tram from the zoo to the Forum area.  This offers excellent views of the Agbar Tower and Gaudi's Sagrada Familia church.

Bill Graves

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