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Flights to European cities are now affordable and numerous and holidaying in one of these cities doesn't have to cost the earth regardless of whether it's a weekend getaway, a few weeks backpacking, or just a rest during a normally working week.

There are plenty of famous art galleries to visit as Spanish and the Catalonians are a people proud of their cultural identity; architecture, wine, cheap grub and gourmet meals, exhaustive shopping options and warm weather with a beach on the doorstep provide you with all the ingredients for the perfect vacation.

Barcelona has scores of talented painters and sculptors to be proud of, many of whom have left their mark on the city in the appearance of architecture and art galleries. Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro individually have museums dedicated to their works and there are also many more art galleries to enjoy. Find interesting facts about the history of the city and its Roman origins, or visit the Santa Agata chapel right in the centre of this historic site.

It is only after UNESCO granted the World Heritage status to some of Guadi's works that the world fully recognized his unique art. The numerous instalments exhibiting his signature style are well-preserved and it's worth going to Barcelona just to see several of his finest pieces which are located all over the city. Any architectural tour should start with Antoni Gaudi, the best Catalan architect there ever was.

Antoni Gaudi is also responsible for the project Park Guell, intending it as a place to unwind for the rich and upper classes. As a dedicated learner and a lover of nature many of his artworks are truly unique in their avoidance in using straight lines and instead you get curved corners, twisted iron effigies and organic shapes. There are some great examples in the park incorporating these elements and the Sagrada Familia is particularly distinctive for its centenary arches, coned shaped roofs and tree inspired pillars, the same elements can also be observed in Casa Museu Gaudi, his residence for most of his final twenty years. The top of the park is accessed by a steep climb but is worth the climb for the 360 degree views of the park and the city below.

The Gehry Fish overlooks the ocean and is breathtakingly big, measuring 35m by 54m. Constructed from stone, steel and glass, you cannot fail to spot it as its surface is covered with shiny metal plates that change colour in the day. Building in the city centre is restricted and emphasis placed on conservation and management rather than new development, enabling the city to retain a vibrant and charming spirit.

The bars in Barcelona begin to fill up from 2am onwards and there are lots of late licensed bars that stay open late, some are open until 10 in the morning! Bars with restaurants generally provide some kind of live music. If you want a place to go to after all the other drinking places have closed then these are the bars to look out for, but there's little disparity between them and clubs except for higher costs and that they don't stay open as long. Many get packed after 1 and close around 5, some even later at 6 or 7am, but if you fancy partying more then pay attention to PR crews handing out leaflets for late clubs which stay open until the afternoon. A few hours of sleep at your apartment or hotel and you'll soon be refreshed enough to start all over again! Look for cozy old fashioned Spanish bars if you prefer the local scene, these joints may be termed local bars for local people but many foreigners like to drink there too as there's no banging music or loud, drunk people to compete with.

Live your life in a more interesting way this year and spend a few days in another part of the world. A good network of low cost airlines and travel agents means it does not cost very much at all to have new adventures in your life, be spontaneous or book a weekend or short break away as a surprise for someone. Since short trips are generally more within people's means than having to save for a full year to take a 14 day vacation, why not break the mould and visit different cities instead?

Serviced apartments in Barcelona are available with just 1 room or up to 5 bedrooms depending on what you need. Choose between an all-in-one studio room or a fully equipped modern apartment with a top of the range kitchen, and a bath included. Rental apartments are generally provided complete with towels and bed sheets, fridge and other basic kitchen equipment, cable TV and WIFI internet access. The serviced apartment market in Barcelona is thoroughly established already so you ought to research your destination and accommodation options before travelling.