Its unique personality finds expression in everything from the fairytale architecture of
modernisme patriarch Antoni Gaudí to the neighbourhoodwide street parties celebrating the likes
of local saints and a love of reading. Here's to a city of effortless charm a coastal gem
blessed with an agreeable climate and beautiful beaches. But before you get lost in that glass
of vermut look around. There's more to the Catalan capital than sun sea and sand - starting
with its diet-dashing food scene and lively hospitality offerings. Barcelona boasts a singular
character proudly guarded and shaped over the centuries. From the sovereign and seafaring
years of the ancient Principality of Catalonia to the 1992 Olympics it has long been a
forwardthinking enterprising and vibrant city. We've ventured beyond the tourist-beaten tracks
of Barri Gòtic and explored every nook from Sant Andreu to Poble-sec. We've found independent
retailers and grand fashion labels that abound with dynamic designs as well as old-world tapas
bars and innovative new spots bringing a modern touch to Catalan cuisine. And don't worry we
haven't eschewed the beach and bottle entirely - there's always time for those in this city.
The magazine Monocle covers the world with its network of bureaus in New York Toronto Zurich
Hong Kong Istanbul Tokyo and Singapore. It also employs more than 30 dedicated
correspondents-in cities from Bangkok to Bogotá São Paolo to Stockholm-as well as a team of
on-the-road reporters based out of its headquarters in London. This team's deep understanding
of cities and all they have to offer has now been compiled in The Monocle Travel Guide Series.
