Vamos a Sitges

After living in Barcelona for almost three years I keep returning to the small and cozy village of Sitges. A small and beautiful city which is located circa 35 kilometers outside of Barcelona. It is most famous for their carnival in the spring and the film festival which takes place in October. Not to mention the openness to any sexual preference one might have. It is the Gay capital of Catalunya.  Sitges is easily reached by train from Barcelona from either Sants or Passeig de Gracia. The trip is around 30-40 minutes long depending on which train you are lucky to get on (express or normal) and the tickets are only around 5 Euros return ticket. When you get to the train station in Sitges it takes around 20 minutes to walk to the beach where you can soak up the beautiful surroundings. If you are a lazy one then there are taxis outside which take you for around 5 euros. The beaches in Barcelona center cannot be called beautiful...not compared to these 17 beaches in Sitges. The sand will not cut you and you will not find dead animals being washed up on shore. I love Barcelona and I am at the beach all the time..however, it has nothing on Sitges beaches. The waves crash into you are you struggle to stand up and there are people doing water sports all over. The people are not busy like they are in Barcelona, the tranquility is so soothing. It is one of those places that allows you to hear waves even when you are laying in bed 12 hours later.  The charming narrow streets and boutiques create such an elegance to the city. The house numbers are made out of maritime inspired tiles and even the church has small fishing boats and shells hanging from the ceiling. This trip is definitely worth it!  Sitges is known as a very artsy place which has given loads of inspiration to writers, musicians and artists as well. The historical heritage and cultural ambiance contributes to the cozyness and charm of the city.   Now, let me tell you about the food!! The restaurants in Sitges are great! One of my personal favorites lies right on the beach and usually has a pretty long line to get in. Its located in Hotel La Santa Maria and serves the best Spanish seafood I have ever tasted. The huge platters come with all different combinations from gambas to fish to shells. Anything you want, they have it.  Sitges is a place every visitor should explore when on vacation or living in BCN. When the beautiful weather settles, take a trip to Sitges instead and soak up the sun.