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Barcelona

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5 MEET THE CREW

who are you traveling with?

9 DAY 2: GAUDI

time to explore the wonderful world that is gaudi architecture all around the city

16 DAY 4: HORSES

Horseback riding, wine and the gothic quarter

16 DAY 6: SEASIDE

Day trip to Blanes and fireworks finale.

7 DAY 1: ARRIVAL

plans for arriving, settling and getting that first drink

13 DAY 3: SAILING

Wind in your hair and wine in your hand.

19 DAY 5: DALI

day trip and the dali museum

16 DAY 7: FAREWELL

Time to say goodbye

16 DAY 7: FAREWELL

Something is about to happen

FromtheEditor

Hi, it’s me Candace (aka the overly excited one who made this thing)

This little magazine is part hype book, part daydream, and part slightly obsessive itinerary planner because honestly, how could I not? A girls’ trip like this deserves more than a group chat and a screenshot of flight info. It deserves a vibe.

Each day in here includes two pages:

The first is a daily itinerary a general game plan with key stops, timing, and the overall “vibe of the day.”

The second is a more storytelling-style article that paints the scene (because we’re not just going to Spain we’re living our ✨ Barcelona fantasy ✨).

You’ll see a mix of confirmed plans, dreamy ideas, and flexible options. As we get closer to the trip, I’ll update and edit this with any final reservations, adjusted times, or new additions and probably more cute quotes or inside jokes we haven’t made yet

Basically, this guide is a little love letter to our upcoming adventure I ma excited I made it because I love documenting joy But mostly, I made it b this week with you already means something

So pack your comfiest shoes, your favorite dress, and an open heart We’re about to make memories that deserve every single page

Travelers

Travelers

The bossy-but-lovable ringleader, Brit (37) is the trip instigator and the “mom” of the group the one who books the flights, makes the plans, and still somehow keeps the party going She’s loyal, sweet, always down for a good time, and has strong opinions about vodka sodas (espresso martinis acceptable) She’s ready to turn this idea into reality and we’re all lucky to be along for the ride

Signature vibe: “I planned this chaos Now let’s enjoy it”

Brittani Perret Instigator New Orleans, LA

The oldest of the crew (but definitely still the cool one), Candace is the storyteller, the memory keeper, and probably the one making this whole thing look like a Pinterest board Vegan, passionate, and a natural connector, she brings the good snacks, deep convos, and a sense of magic to everything she touches Just don’t ask her to do dairy unless cava counts

Signature vibe: “Romanticizing real life is a lifestyle, not a phase”

Candice Spears,

Organzier Miami, FL

Bestie

Travelers

New passport? Check. First international trip?

Let’s go Rachel (33) is the sassy adventurer of the group always cracking jokes, loving hard, and surprising you with how outdoorsy and grounded she really is She’s a mom of two, which means her alone time is sacred, and we’re all about to benefit from her unfiltered realness

Signature vibe: “I’m here for the views and the drama”

Rachel Luwisch

Sister wife and co-parent

Portland-based and tattoo-obsessed, Megan (39) brings the cool girl energy in the chillest way possible She started as a client and turned into a friend, and now she’s leading the charge for matching ink in Spain Megan loves wine, fresh starts, and deep convos and we’re pretty sure she’s about to become everyone’s new favorite

Meagan Bryant

DAY1:ARRIVAL

THE PLAN: ROOFTOPS, STROLLS & SETTLING IN

Evening

Sunsetcocktailsatarooftop bar:

LaDolceVitae(Majestic Hotel)

Morning/Afternoon

ArriveinBarcelona

CheckintoGrandHyatt

Barcelona

Unpack,refresh,maybe hitthehotelspaorpool

Optional:strollthrough ElBorn&Gothic Quarter

Skybar(GrandHotel Central)

Dinneroptions:

BardelPla(livelytapas)

Flax&Kale(plant-forward+ stylish)

ElNacional(multirestaurantdininghall)

Eveningstroll,toasttothetrip, earlynightinordrinksunder thestars

A slow, chic arrival — think sunshine, relaxed strolls, rooftop cocktails, and Barcelona's golden light welcoming you

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Warm breezes, rosé-colored skies, stylish but low-effort glam

Take it easy, soak it all in — Barcelona is just beginning

Arrival,Relaxation& RooftopSunset

THURSDAY, JULY 17TH

There’s something magical about the first day of a trip that heady mix of anticipation and relief After arriving in Barcelona, you’ll settle into the Grand Hyatt, a sleek and serene retreat tucked into the elegant Avenida Diagonal This is the perfect place to shake off travel fatigue: take a dip in the pool, book a spa treatment, or simply open the windows and let the Mediterranean light pour in

Once refreshed, ease into vacation mode with a casual wander The hotel’s neighborhood is ideal for a low-key afternoon think quiet treelined streets, high-end boutiques, and café terraces just begging you to sit for a while But don’t get too comfortable golden hour is calling

As evening falls, make your way to the heart of the old city The Gothic Quarter and El Born welcome you with narrow stone alleys, centuries-old cathedrals, and that effortlessly cool Barcelona vibe. It’s not about museums today it’s about mood Stroll slowly Let your feet guide you to sun-drenched courtyards and the whisper of distant music

At sunset, head up literally to toast the start of your Spanish adventure from one of the city’s rooftop terraces La Dolce Vitae at the Majestic Hotel offers an unbeatable view: the Sagrada Família in one direction, the sea in the other, and all of Barcelona bathed in golden light Not far behind are Skybar and the 360° Terrace each a perfect perch for clinking glasses and soaking in the skyline

Dinner is delightfully casual tonight. Stay in El Born and grab a table at Bar del Pla, a buzzy spot known for its wine and rustic tapas with plenty of veggie options Or head to Flax & Kale for a modern plant-forward menu that even the non-vegetarians will love And if you’re craving variety? Try El Nacional, a beautiful multi-space food hall where everyone can find their perfect bite from Catalan classics to modern plates and a dedicated vegetarian section.

It’s an easy, sun-soaked start to the week no schedules, no pressure. Just beautiful views, great food, and the quiet thrill of realizing the adventure has only just begun

Arrive at the Hyatt Grand, settle in and then sunset drinks at a rooftop bar to toast our trip

DAY2:GAUDI

ICONS, SIESTA & POBLE-SEC FESTIVITIES

Some cities impress you. Barcelona seduces you — with light, with color, with rhythm in the streets

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Wonder in the morning. Rest in the afternoon. Move to the rhythm of a Catalan block party by night.

THE PLAN:

Morning

Reserve early visit to Sagrada Família

Experience Gaudí’s stained-glass magic

Optional: Park Güell for whimsical architecture & city views

Midday

Lunch/siesta time

Veggie lunch at Teresa Carles, Flax & Kale, or a market café

Return to hotel for a recharge break

Afternoon/Evening

Take the Montjuïc Cable Car to Montjuïc Castle

Explore the old fortress & enjoy panoramic views

Dinner at Terraza Martínez

Street party fun at Festa Major de Poble-sec (live music, street food, castellers, and dancing)

Day2:Gaudí, GoldenLight& aBlockParty UndertheStars

FRIDAY, JULY 18TH

If you’re going to be awed by architecture, let it be in the form of colored glass halos and gravitydefying spires

Begin your day with one of Barcelona’s most iconic experiences: the Sagrada Família More sculpture than structure, Gaudí’s masterpiece bathes visitors in stained-glass light that feels more like a spiritual reset than a sightseeing stop. It’s not about religion here it’s about wonder The swirling ceilings, dreamlike facades, and rainbow beams are a gentle reminder that creativity can be sacred

Still floating from your cathedral glow-up, you can dive deeper into Gaudí’s imagination with a visit to Park Güell an open-air mosaic fantasyland Curved benches, gingerbread gatehouses, and sweeping views of the city make it an ideal place to stroll, take photos, and marvel at the weird beauty of it all

Here, you can place a caption for the photo It can be a short description or it can credit the production team

With your cultural cup full, it’s time to slip into something more Spanish: lunch and a siesta. Eixample is perfect for this Head to Teresa Carles or Flax & Kale, where the menus are loaded with vibrant, vegan-forward dishes that feel indulgent but light Or, if you're craving something more local, the Santa Caterina Market offers fresh juices, grilled veggies, or even a plate of vegan paella tucked into its buzzing stalls

Then do as the Barcelonians do and rest. This city was made for the long game A nap, a bath, or even an hour spent journaling in your hotel robe will reset you for the golden hour ahead

As the afternoon heat softens, make your way to Montjuïc, where adventure and panoramic views await The Montjuïc Cable Car sweeps you above the city, rising slowly to reveal the coastline, rooftops, and green spaces below. At the summit: Montjuïc Castle, an old fortress surrounded by quiet paths and breezy overlooks Grab a coffee or cava at the mountaintop café, snap a few photos, and breathe in the wide-open calm that hovers above the city’s buzz

“Letyourdaybea mosaic:wonderinthe morning,restinthe afternoon,andmusicin thestreetsbynight.”

By evening, Barcelona changes tempo and so should you It’s festa major season, and Poble-sec is the place to be From July 18 to 27, this vibrant neighborhood turns into a full-blown street party, but not the overwhelming kind Think: string lights zigzagged above cobblestone streets, live music drifting between buildings, and neighbors sipping vermouth on stoops

Start with dinner at Terraza Martínez, perched just above the neighborhood With harbor views, open-air seating, and vegetarian paella on the menu, it’s the perfect pre-party spot As twilight falls, wander down into the heart of the celebration You might stumble upon a live rumba band, a castellers performance (yes, that’s humans building human towers), or spontaneous dancing in the street It’s joyful, it’s genuine, and it’s exactly the kind of night you’ll remember months from now.

Prefer something quieter? Skip the party and head back to Sala Montjuïc, the open-air cinema by the castle. Grab a picnic blanket, some cava, and settle in under the stars for a classic film with a live music intro Whether you choose block party or film night, the spirit of Barcelona will be buzzing all around you celebratory, soulful, and just the right amount of unexpected.

DAY3:SAILING

SAILING, WINERY, NAPTIME & SEASIDE DINNER

THE PLAN:

Morning

Leisurely start coffee, beach walk, or breakfast at hotel

Head to Port Olímpic

Board sailboat for a coastal cruise to Alella

sical architecture & city views

Midday

Wine tasting & vineyard tour at a boutique winery in Alella

Light local snacks + sunny vineyard vibes

Return to Barcelona by mid-afternoon

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Sail. Sip. Sun.

Let the wind mess your hair, let the wine loosen your laugh, and let the sea remind you how free you really are

Afternoon/Evening

Poolside nap, spa time, or chill break at the hotel

Dinner at Pez Vela (beachfront)

Post-dinner stroll along Barceloneta

Beach promenade

Optional cocktail at a chiringuito or rooftop lounge

Quiet night walk or sit by the sea

WindinYourHair,Wine inYourGlass

SATURDAY, JULY 19

Some days on vacation feel like they were pulled from a dream — this is one of them. No alarm clocks, no stress. Just sunshine, sea breeze, and a chilled glass of white wine waiting at the end of a sail.

Ease into your morning with a slow start Maybe breakfast at the hotel or a café cortado at a local spot nearby Then make your way to Port Olímpic, where your sailboat adventure begins Climb aboard a sleek catamaran or sailing yacht and set off along the Catalan coast As the skyline of Barcelona fades behind you, the wind picks up and the Mediterranean sparkles all around It’s just you, your crew, and the open water a little bit luxe, a little bit wild

After a scenic cruise, you'll dock at the port of El Masnou, where a short transfer brings you to Alella, a picturesque village nestled in the hills above the sea Here, at a family-run vineyard, your group will enjoy a private wine tasting among the vines The estate, often set inside a rustic stone farmhouse, pours white wines that are bright and floral and best enjoyed under a pergola with local snacks and laughter

By mid-afternoon, you're back in the city, sunkissed and blissed out This is the moment for a nap, a dip in the hotel pool, or simply stretching out with your feet up and your wine-sipping hand free

In the evening, change into something effortlessly breezy it's beach night Head down to Barceloneta Beach, where the golden hour turns the sand into gold and the city’s pulse slows to a lazy rhythm Dinner tonight is at Pez Vela, a stylish beachfront restaurant tucked beneath the W Hotel With your toes practically in the sand, you’ll dine on fresh salads, veggie paella, grilled delights, and share plates designed for summer nights

As the stars come out, stroll the beach promenade, maybe grab a last cocktail at a chill chiringuito or beach bar Let the sound of waves and distant music wrap up the day If you’re still buzzing, wander out on the jetty by the W for a full view of the night skyline Just you, your people, the sea and that delicious feeling that life is really good right now

Sunset dinner on the beach is a great way to end the day

DAY4:HORSES

HORSES, CAVA & OLD STREETS

THE PLAN:

Morning

JULY 20TH

Sometimes the best way to see a place is from the saddle — slow, steady, and just wild enough to remember "

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Sail. Sip. Sun.

This is the fantasy and you’re living it.

Pickup from hotel

Scenic countryside drive to Penedès wine region

1-hour horseback ride through vineyards

Midday

Winery tour + Cava tasting with local bites

Return to Barcelona by early afternoon

Chill time: nap, pool, or spa back at the hotel

Afternoon/Evening

Dinner in Gothic Quarter Rasoterra (vegetarian bistro)

Bodega Biarritz (custom tapas tasting)

Optional: Ghost or legends walking tour

Drink at El Bosc de les Fades fairytale bar

Saddles,SparklingWine &StorybookStreets

SUNDAY, JULY 20TH

Some adventures start with heels. Others begin with boots and a horse that flicks its ears when you say hello.

Today, it’s all about stepping into the quiet countryside where the city noise fades and the Catalan vineyards stretch wide under the summer sky. Your morning starts with a pickup from Barcelona and a scenic ride out to the Penedès wine region. Once you arrive, it’s saddle-up time No need for cowboy experience here these are gentle horses, calm trails, and just enough movement to feel free without ever breaking a sweat

Letyourbodyrestafterthetrailand yourmindlingeronthescenery.

For the next hour, you’ll ride among the vines, soaking in rolling hills and sun-dappled paths

It’s peaceful, grounding, and slightly surreal like stepping into a wine commercial, but you’re the star When the ride ends, the reward begins: a private wine tasting at a local bodega The region is famous for Cava, Spain’s sparkling wine, and you'll toast with chilled glasses alongside artisanal snacks and panoramic views

By early afternoon, you’ll be back in the city. Nap Shower Float in the hotel pool Let your body rest after the trail and your mind linger on the scenery Then slip into something romantic tonight, you’re headed into the Gothic Quarter, where the past whispers in every archway and the light flickers off ancient stone

Dinner is tucked away in a narrow lane at Rasoterra, a chic vegetarian bistro where every dish is as artful as it is satisfying Creative tapas, seasonal vegetables, and natural wines set the tone If you’re craving more variety, try Bodega Biarritz, where a custom tapas platter awaits (just mention your dietary needs they’ll take care of you)

After dinner, the options are as moody or magical as you want them to be Join a legends or ghost tour and walk the cobblestone streets by lantern-light, hearing tales that give the neighborhood an even deeper mystique Or duck into El Bosc de les Fades, a fairy-tale themed bar hidden just off La Rambla, where trees twist through the walls and candles flicker in nooks It’s weird, whimsical, and completely unforgettable

Whether you end the night sipping vermouth under medieval arches or giggling with your girls in a forest bar, today was one of contrast wild to elegant, boots to candlelight and entirely yours

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Rustic calm meets city charm. Today’s mood is grounded, glowing, and just a little bit magical.

DAY5:DALI

HORSES, CAVA & OLD STREETS

JULY 21ST

Sometimes the best way to see a place is from the saddle — slow, steady, and just wild enough to remember."

THE PLAN:

Morning

Train or transfer to Figueres

Explore the wild and whimsical Dalí Theatre-Museum

Optional: stop by Dalí Jewels exhibit next door

Midday

Lunch in Figueres (try local specialties & people-watch)

Head to Girona for an afternoon wander

Afternoon/Evening

Explore Girona’s Old Town, Eiffel Bridge, and Jewish Quarter

Optional: Girona Cathedral steps (GoT vibes!)

Treat yourselves to Rocambolesc Gelateria before heading back

Chill night in OR Magic Nights rooftop concert at Casa Batlló (pre-book!)

SpecialIssue: DalíDreams& MedievalWanders

MONDAY, JULY 21ST

A short intro or kicker of the article will go here. This part acts as a bridge between the headline and the article itself.

Today you leave the city behind and head north to Figueres, the hometown of Salvador Dalí and home to the Dalí TheatreMuseum, arguably the weirdest, most wonderful museum in Europe It’s not just an art exhibit it’s an experience Designed by Dalí himself, the museum is part dreamscape, part optical illusion, and part glorious chaos You’ll wander through rooms where couches become lips, where ceilings swirl like a melted clock, and where his actual tomb rests beneath the old stage. This is Dalí’s mind, and you’re walking through it

After soaking in the madness (and maybe grabbing a surreal selfie or two), you’ll pop into a nearby café in Figueres for lunch. This is a great time to try something traditional escalivada, truffled eggs, or fresh local bread drizzled in olive oil After lunch, if you’re up for more exploring, you’ll take a short ride to Girona and trust us, you’ll be glad you did

Girona is a gem part medieval fantasy, part quiet elegance Walk the Eiffel Bridge across the Onyar River for colorful views of riverside houses Wander through the Jewish Quarter, with its maze-like alleys and stone archways If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize the grand steps of Girona Cathedral (filmed as the Great Sept of Baelor) It’s peaceful here, and charming, and best enjoyed without a schedule

As the afternoon winds down, grab a sorbet or whimsical scoop from Rocambolesc Gelateria, the creation of a Michelinstarred chef It’s part dessert, part art, and the perfect farewell treat before you head back to Barcelona

Whenlifestartstofeel surreal,leanin the beststoriesalways beginthatway.

Tonight, you may want nothing more than room service and a glass of wine in bed but if you're feeling one last dose of magic, consider booking a rooftop concert at Casa Batlló Picture this: live music floating over Gaudí’s mosaic chimneys, cava in hand, city lights below It’s a poetic way to end a beautifully surreal day

DAY6:BEACH

THE PLAN: COASTAL ESCAPE & FIREWORKS MAGIC

Morning/Afternoon

TaketrainorcartoBlanes(1–1.5hrsalongthecoast)

Easystrollthroughthebeachtown&seafrontpromenade

Midday

Lunchatabeachfrontcafé(SaMalica,TexasGrill,orlocal tapas)

HeadtoMarimurtraBotanicalGarden Explorecliffsidepaths,photoops,seaviews

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Easy. Breezy. Beautiful.

This is summer on the coast, the kind of day you'll wish you could bottle. Barcelona is just beginning

Salt on your skin Fire in the sky And nothing on the schedule but joy

Afternoon Options

OptionalhiketoCastelldeSantJoanforpanoramic views

Relaxatabeachchiringuitowithdrinks

Swimornaponthesandbeforetheeveningshow Evening

Stakeoutagoodspotonthebeachforfireworks

EnjoytheBlanesFireworksFestival(starts 10:30 PM)

Optional:post-showgelatoorsnack

ReturntoBarcelonalateevening(watchlasttrainor pre-bookride)

oastal olors& ireworks vertheSea

TUESDAY, JULY 22ND

plan? Sunshine, sea views, cliffside gardens, eworks show so good, locals plan their around it. You’re headed up the coast to the laid-back gateway to Costa Brava and nd of the day, you’ll understand why e who visits falls in love with it

ate morning train or private ride along the he trip alone is a treat: sleepy beach towns, g sea glimpses, and that sense that you're toward something beautiful When you arrive s, things slow down This is a town of ice tands, fishing boats, and Mediterranean

nch at a beachfront café think sangria, eggies, and toes-in-the-sand vibes make y up to the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, d high above the water. This isn’t just a pretty it’s a scene. Exotic plants, romantic pathways, kout points that feel plucked from a movie set ant your camera for this one Just living

Next, if you’re feeling up for it, explore a bit more: climb to the Castell de Sant Joan for sweeping coastal views or wander down to a nearby hidden cove for a moment of quiet Or just head back into town for a drink at a chiringuito a simple beach bar where you can sit in your sundress with a cold vermouth and do absolutely nothing

“Saltonyourskin.Fireinthe sky.Andnothingonthe schedulebutjoy.”

Every July, the town hosts the Concurs de Focs d’Artifici, one of the most spectacular fireworks festivals in Europe Thousands gather on the sand, music floats through the air, and then the sky explodes Fireworks are launched from platforms in the bay, creating bursts of light and color reflected on the water It’s 20 minutes of magic and there’s really no better word for it

Grab a blanket, find your spot on the beach, and let the show unfold above you You’ll laugh, gasp, maybe cry a little (the good kind), and you’ll definitely never forget it

After the grand finale, make your way back tired, happy, maybe a little sandy and fall into bed knowing you just lived one of the most unforgettable days of the trip

DAY6:FAREWELL

FAREWELL BRUNCH & DEPARTURE

THE PLAN:

Morning

Sleepinalittleortakeaquietwalknearby

Farewellbreakfastorbrunch:

Brunch&Cake

Flax&Kale

FederalCafé

Lastcoffee,photo,ortinysouvenirgrab

Afternoon

Headtoairportaround12:00–12:30PM

Flightdeparts3:40PMfromBarcelona

Salt on your skin Fire in the sky And nothing on the schedule but joy

VIBE OF THE DAY:

Bittersweet and beautiful.

Leave full — with stories, sunshine, and something that feels like magic

UntilNextTime, Barcelona

TUESDAY, JULY 22ND

It’s your last few hours in Barcelona and even though your bags are packed, the city still has a little more magic to offer This morning is for slow coffee, final hugs, and one last moment to soak in the sunshine before you head to the airport

Skip the rush. Wake up gently, open the curtains, and take a deep breath of warm Mediterranean air Whether you want to sip a cortado on the hotel terrace or sneak in one final stroll around the neighborhood, do it with intention This part matters too

For breakfast or brunch, treat yourselves to something lovely and light Brunch & Cake, Flax & Kale, or Federal Café all serve colorful, fresh dishes that fuel you without weighing you down plus they’re photogenic enough for one last vacation post

Maybe you squeeze in a quick wander around a nearby plaza or shop for a last-minute souvenir (olive oil, perfume, or jewelry, anyone?) Maybe you just sit in silence for a minute and say thank you to each other, to the moment, to the version of yourself that said yes to this trip

uller

ame to Spain for sunshine, wine, and adventure e leaving with inside jokes, surreal memories, and a d chapter that no one else will ever truly understand

ona will still be here. But this version of the city ne where you laughed, glowed, rode horses, drank at sunset, and watched fireworks burst over the sea t version lives only in you now

next time ✈

ThisIsAbouttoBe OnefortheBooks

Something is about to happen

You're not just flying to Spain you're stepping into a chapter none of you can fully predict, but all of you will remember There will be sun on your skin and cava in your glass There will be wild laughs at the wrong moments and quiet ones you never expected. There will be late-night conversations that say everything and early-morning views that say even more

You're about to walk streets older than your country, ride horses through vineyards, sail across open water, and watch fireworks light up a foreign sky all while becoming the kind of women who do things like that

You’ll nap when you feel like it, dance when you don’t mean to, and order dessert even if no one else does You’ll mispronounce things, overpack, and absolutely forget to charge something important And it will still be perfect

You’re not tourists

You’re travelers

You’re story collectors

And this trip?

It’s about to be your favorite one yet

So take the photo Say yes Order the second drink Be the version of yourself you never needed a reason to be until now

Because this is what you came for And it’s all just beginning.

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Barcelona by Candice Spears - Issuu