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Barcelona
Barcelona, Spain is hosting the Disney Magic during its Mediterranean sailings. This port is the busiest in all of Europe and is conveniently located near the airport and several major hotels, many of which can be added onto your Cruise package for pre and post-night stays.
A destination in itself, Barcelona has beautiful beaches, cathedrals, museums, mountains as well as intimate cafes and world class shopping.
At L'Aquarium de Barcelona you can visit the displays housing marine habitats. There are 14 tanks dedicated to sealife found in the Mediterranean, including the Oceanarium which has a walk through tunnel.
Montserrat is home to the Benedictine Monk monastery as well as a Holy Grotto located in the mountain peaks. Should you choose to visit this destination while in Barcelona, with luck, you may be able to hear the world renowned Montserrat Basilica boys choir.
The spectacular La Sagrada Familia was begun in 1881 by architect Antoni Gaudi. The construction is ongoing but you can still visit this famous Basilica. When completed in 2026, it will have some of the world's tallest church towers among it's 18 spires.
La Rambla is known for its shops, restaurants and entertainment. This bustling street is the perfect place to find Catalan ceramics, designer fashion and fine leather goods
Language
While Spanish is the official language of the country, Barcelona is located in the Catalania section of Spain where the Catalan dialect is spoken. You'll find that most residents speak both languages. Here are useful words/phrases:
Phrase |
Catalan |
Spanish |
Hello |
Hola |
Hola |
Goodbye! |
Adéu |
Adiós/Hasta Luego |
Please |
Si us plau |
Por favor |
Thank you |
Gràcies |
Gracias |
You’re Welcome |
De res |
De nada |
Good morning |
Bon dia |
Buenos días |
Good afternoon |
Bona tarda |
Buenas tardes |
Good evening |
Bon vespre |
Buenas tardes |
Good night |
Bona nit |
Buenas noches |
How much? |
Quant costa? |
Cuánto vale? |
Pleased to meet you |
Molt de gust |
Encantado |
Pier |
Port |
Puerto |
Ship |
Barco |
Barco |
Currency
Barcelona uses the Euro. While most major credit cards are accepted, purchases under 10 Euros are customarilly made with cash.
Transportation
Taxis are black and yellow and easily recognizable. When looking for a vacant cab, check to see if the green light on top is lit. Metered cabs are recommended when traveling from the airport as opposed to paying a flat rate. You'll find that cash is needed when using taxi service.
Personal Safety
Bring your street smarts. Don't carry large amounts of cash and keep your money concealed. Leave your important documents (passport, plane ticket, etc) in the ship/hotel safe. When walking along the streets, keep your purse on the inside, preferably with the shoulder strap across your chest. Be vigilant when in crowded areas. Pickpockets are notorious for frequenting Metro stations, open air terraces and lines to enter attractions. Men are advised to move their wallets to their front pockets. |
