I love planning trips that combine a little city time and a little beach time – a bit of inspiration and of course some relaxation. Barcelona is like a dream sequence of spaces. Throughout the streets and squares, Antoni Gaudí’s legacy adds an unparalleled air of creativity. The crowds, and me on my first visit years ago, head to LaSagrada Familia and Park Guell. Now, I love the intimate spots like the Museu Picasso and Casa Milà, the undulating apartment building also known as La Pedrera. I spent the afternoon at Galeria Miquel Alzueta scoping out art and furniture and strolled the narrow alleyways in El Born. Days are mapped out by the best food spots and savored with delicious wines and Catalan feasts. The next stop took me to the Mediterranean-blue waters of Mallorca. The chalky white streets, dried pine and salty air in the craggy beach coves are truly other worldly. The dramatic mountainous backdrop adds an air of magic to coastal villages like Deià. This beachside vaca called for long leisurely lunches of paella and rosé. The days concluded with long intimate dinners, filled with great friends. – EF
