Barcelona Favorite Tips by rkearns

graffiti

Favorite thing: there's a graffiti wall right next to the contemporary art museum.
this is what it looks like, so you know you've found it...

where to stay, what to do

Favorite thing: fellow solo female traveler here.
i went and it was as safe as any large city can be. just use common sense.
i stayed at the kabul backpacker's hostel just off las ramblas. it's one of the best hostels i've ever been to, or at least it was in '05.

make sure to visit "la boqueria". it's one of the best markets in all of europe. the transportation is great, but it's more of an international city. unlike madrid, you will get a little more watered down version of spanish culture. but it still has lots of great stuff! gaudi, of course, proximity to dali's hometown, the picasso museum, lots of great food, a beach, tons of art and great food.

you're going to have a blast. like the above poster said, it's a good idea (in any city imo) to bring just enough cash for what you need for the day. bring a padlock if you stay in a hostel, so if they don't have the locks for the lockers, you have a way to protect your things. just don't be flashy, carry a purse, like you would in your own hometown, and enjoy walking around. i think it's safe, and i've been all over europe, south america and a small part of asia.

here's the website to the hostel:

http://www.kabul.es/

carrying money

Favorite thing: i always bring a purse and just carry it as if i were in my own city. i also divide my things into different bags so if something is stolen, it's not everything. if you have to leave your things at the hostel, invest in a good lock and keep your things in the locker provided. but a safety deposit box is also a good idea. the american embassy has to replace your passport within 24 hours if lost or stolen, btw.