Thoughts on Woody Allen aside, for anyone unfamiliar with the 2008 movie "Vicky Christina Barcelona", it, like so many others, uses the backdrop of Barcelona as a canvas on which it paints an intriguing story of love, loss, and living a bohemian existence in a space that absolutely drips art and romance.
It also pretty much completely ignores Barcelona.
As a feat, this stands tall. The region of Catalunya - with Barcelona as its capital - is a remarkable space that exists both as a part of and separate from the rest of Spain. It is here the ancient language of Català prevails as "Spanish spoken in French with an Italian cadence", and locals create festivals to celebrate everything from street performances to giants.
8 years of living in such a vibrant location certainly had its impact on American, LeeAnn Mutchler. As an expat, LeeAnn learned a lot about how to become, as she puts it, a "cultural chameleon", which she has since translated into cultivating community in her new home in San Francisco.
In this exciting episode of "Travel Buzz", we embark on a journey with LeeAnn through the lively streets of Barcelona and delve deep into the heart of Catalan culture. LeeAnn shares her firsthand experiences of living in this enchanting city, offering invaluable insights into what makes Barcelona and the broader region of Catalunya so captivating, as well as what movies like "Vicky Christina Barcelona" got wrong.
In our conversation, LeeAnn paints vivid pictures of the region's iconic landmarks and hidden gems. From the awe-inspiring architecture of Antoni Gaudí to the vibrant atmosphere of La Rambla, listeners will discover the essence of Barcelona's charm.
LeeAnn also takes us on a culinary odyssey through the rich tapestry of Catalan cuisine, tantalizing our taste buds with descriptions of traditional dishes like fideuà (Catalan-style paella), calçots, and our personal favourite, crema catalana.
Beyond the sights and tastes, LeeAnn offers invaluable tips for immersing oneself in Catalan culture and shares her insider knowledge on how to make the most out of a trip to Catalunya.
So, whether you're a seasoned traveler to the region or dreaming of your first visit to Barcelona, join us as we uncover the magic of Catalunya and discover why it's a destination unlike any other!