I got back from Barcelona yesterday. First (and short) child free vacation my wife and I have taken (translation - 2 years). What can I say? Barcelona is a fantastic city, with flamboyance and excellent all around tempo. It even makes me look forward to 3GSM!

A few recommendations, some are my own and some I borrowed, used and am relaying:

1. The Beach. First of all, I was totally not aware topless was back in style. And the little cafes right off the water got me to spend an unplanned, half day there. I lost at least 20 points off my blood pressure. Fun and therapeutic.

2. Cal pep on Plaça de les Olles is the best Tapas place ever. Not very expensive and well worth the 30 minutes wait.

3. The local version of the Buddha Bar is sleazy. But fun. No point in arriving before 1:30 though.

4. Camp Nou! Sorry, folks, I’m done with local soccer… 100,000 fans go in and out in less then 30 minutes, parents and their children enjoying a game without violence, tradition and excitement mixed with a hell of a game as well. Velencia and Barca drawing (1:1) in a hell of a game. I got to sit in the 8th row (78 Euro…) and could actually hear Ronaldinho, Deco and Et’o communicate. Check out my seat! That’s Ronaldinho!

5. Palau Sans Jordi is a beautiful arena in a breathtaking location, but for a basketball game, less for a rock or pop concert. We went to see George Michael’s first concert in 15 years as he kicked off his “25 Live” world tour. I grew up on Wham! and George, and I have lots of sentiments, but 17,000 fans expected some more energy and some less main stream repertoire.

6. The Metro. It rocks! no need for cabs plus you won’t find them easily. The metro is easy, cheap, clean and efficient.

7. Can’t sign off without the techie point. MMS is here to stay. I hardly took my camera with me and was still able to tease my buddies with real time, live, pictures from Camp Nou. Decent pictures, easy experience. I’m optimistic.