Rich Kurtzman

If you were to sum up your Barcelona experience in one to two words, what would you say? My Barcelona Experience is…

Inspired

Explain why you chose those words.

Even after almost 15 years living here, I am constantly inspired by how the city re-invents itself and has a vision of the future based around the “Barcelona Brand” that offers something to everyone who visits whether for a day, a semester or years.

What was your favorite place to eat in Barcelona? Favorite food?

You can’t beat a fideuá (like paella but with fried vermicelli noodles) with ali-oli on the beach over a 2-3 hour Saturday lunch. In Barcelona, it’s not just about the food but the social activity surrounding it. A calçotada would be a close second for me. A calçotada is a food festival – a type of Catalan bbq – with sweet spring onions and a delicious almond based dipping sauce.

What is you favorite place in Catalunya? Why?

I would spend a weekend in Cadaqués whenever possible to be in a small, relaxing sea-side village, with the beach, hikes and to be near Salvador Dalí’s house, which is now a fascinating museum.

Is there a site in Barcelona that you would recommend to future students that may be a little more “off the beaten path”?

I think students should check out Poble Nou because it is only a few extra metro stops outside of the city center but has a totally different feel to it. There is a “rambla” there also that is not touristy and a famous cemetery to visit.

What is one piece of advice that you have for future students coming to Barcelona?

Create your own Barcelona experience! The city has so much to offer and it’s going to be different for everyone. Make an effort to meet some local students because in my travels I’ve found that it makes the experience a thousand times more valuable.