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Barcelona, where Roman foundations meet Gaudí's fantastical creations, has captivated travelers for generations—becoming the ninth most visited city worldwide.

Antoni Gaudí's Sagrada Familia Basilica, has been under construction for over a century. At Park Güell, Gaudí's connection with nature manifests in colorful mosaics and whimsical structures. The Casa Batlló, with its dragon-spine rooftop and ocean-inspired interiors, offers an immersive experience through cutting-edge digital tours.

Barcelona also reveals architectural treasures like Luis Domènech i Montaner's Palau de la Música Catalana—a concert hall of unparalleled beauty—and the Hospital de Sant Pau, designed with the concept that beautiful surroundings promote healing. The Gothic Quarter's labyrinthine streets lead to hidden courtyards and medieval squares, while nearby Las Ramblas pulses with the energy of street performers and market vendors.

Barcelona offers tapas culture at its finest. From simple pan con tomate to elaborate seafood paellas, the city's gastronomic scene bridges traditional and innovative cooking. La Boqueria market is a must.

September's La Mercè features the spectacular human towers called castellers, while April's St. Jordi's Day transforms Barcelona into a celebration of literature and romance through the exchange of books and roses.

Whether exploring expansive Collserola Park, taking day trips to Montserrat's jagged mountain monastery, or simply soaking in Mediterranean coastal vibes, Barcelona leaves visitors "spiritually, mentally, and physically fulfilled." Join us to discover why this Catalan capital continues to enchant travelers from around the world.

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Guest Angelo Carotenuto is founder of LivTours designing small group tours throughout Europe, exploring and preserving local cultures while engaging in sustainable tourism. One of his very favorite destinations is Barcelona.

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Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and 'one of the top 100 Indie books of the year'). She has contributed to many guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles.
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Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has dropped over 115 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
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Travel vlogs of our featured podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now drop on YouTube . Please subscribe, like, and comment.
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Website: https://placesirememberlealane.com
Travel Blog: forbes.com
BlueSky: lealane.bsky.social
X (Twitter):@lealane
Instagram: PlacesIRemember

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Mexico City pulses with energy that spans nearly seven centuries, from its 1325 Aztec founding to its contemporary status as a sophisticated global metropolis. The sprawling capital reveals itself as a layered cultural treasure through the expert insights of Arturo Sanchez, Head Concierge at Andaz Mexico City Condesa Hotel, who shares his perspective on this magnificent city.

At the ancient heart of Mexico City, the Zócalo plaza anchors the historic center where visitors can explore the 13th-century Templo Mayor ruins alongside colonial masterpieces like the Metropolitan Cathedral. Diego Rivera's stunning murals depicting Mexican history adorn the National Palace walls, while nearby, the Palacio de Bellas Artes dazzles with its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture, housing a Tiffany glass curtain. A few blocks away, hidden murals in the Public Education Secretary buildings showcase Mexico's muralist tradition.

Beyond downtown, the cobbled streets of Coyoacán neighborhood transport visitors to another era, where Frida Kahlo's iconic Blue House museum captivates with intimate glimpses into the artist's life. The National Museum of Anthropology stands as an essential starting point for understanding Mexico's complex history through its comprehensive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts displayed in a stunning modern building.

The city's vibrant festival calendar reaches its colorful peak during Day of the Dead celebrations (November 1-2), when locals honor deceased loved ones through offerings, marigolds, and communal gatherings. Mexico City's world-class culinary scene ranges from street tacos to Michelin-starred restaurants, while nearby excursions offer archaeological wonders like the Teotihuacan pyramids where sunrise hot air balloon rides create unforgettable experiences.

Mexican wrestling (Lucha Libre) is an acrobatic theatrical performance where audiences choose sides in a communal celebration. As Arturo shares from personal experience, these authentic cultural moments create meaningful connections, revealing why Mexico City remains one of the world's most captivating destinations.

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Arturo Sanchez lives in Mexico City and is head concierge at Andaz Mexico City Condesa Hotel there.

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Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and 'one of the top 100 Indie books of the year'). She has contributed to many guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles.
_____
Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has dropped over 115 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
_____
Travel vlogs of our featured podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now drop on YouTube . Please subscribe, like, and comment.
****************************************
Website: https://placesirememberlealane.com
Travel Blog: forbes.com
BlueSky: lealane.bsky.social
X (Twitter):@lealane
Instagram: PlacesIRemembe

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Train travel enchants with its unique blend of scenery, experience, and connection, as illustrated by Railbookers’ offerings around the world. Frank Marini and Gareth Jones explore top train journeys, eco-friendly travel, and essential tips for maximizing rail adventures.
• Train travel combines both scenic beauty and cultural richness
• Railbookers offers tailored vacations for diverse budgets and preferences
• Popular routes include scenic trains in Switzerland and easy connections in Ireland
• Trains are a sustainable choice for modern travelers seeking greener options
• Key tips include early booking, proper planning, and enjoying the journey
• Highlights a 59-day extraordinary global train trip with luxury experiences and exclusives.

Frank Marini and Gareth Jones are executives at Railbookers.

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Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and 'one of the top 100 Indie books of the year'). She has contributed to many guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles.
_____
Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has dropped over 115 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
_____
Travel vlogs of our featured podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now drop on YouTube . Please subscribe, like, and comment.
****************************************
Website: https://placesirememberlealane.com
Travel Blog: forbes.com
BlueSky: lealane.bsky.social
X (Twitter):@lealane
Instagram: PlacesIRememberLeaLane
Facebook: Places I Remember with Lea Lane
YouTube Channel: Places I Remember: Travel Talk with Lea Lane