I moved from the US to Barcelona. Here are 11 things that surprised me most.

Jordan MautnerJun 11, 2024, 21:52 IST

I moved from Los Angeles to Barcelona, Spain.Jordan Mautner

I traveled to Europe frequently while living in LA, so I decided to move abroad and settle in Spain.
Barcelona is beautiful, and I was surprised by some of the holiday traditions the city partakes in.

After years of visiting Europe from LA, I took the plunge and relocated to Barcelona in 2020.

Spain is experiencing some of its highest tourism numbers in years, and after living here, I can see why it's so popular. But when I first moved, there were definitely a few experiences and cultural norms that took some getting used to.

Here's what surprised me the most when I moved from the US to Spain.

I knew Barcelona was in Spain, but the Catalonia region has its own language and culture.

The Catalonian flag.Jordan Mautner

There are a few unique holiday traditions I had to learn when I moved.

The Caga Tió (left) and caganers figurines (right).Jordan Mautner

Tapas are genuinely a way of life here.

It's common to share tapas with the whole table.Jordan Mautner

I learned all about calçots and the traditional way to eat them.

Calçots are in season in winter and spring.Jordan Mautner

Sandwiches for breakfast are the norm.

A cup of coffee and a bocadillo in Spain.Jordan Mautner

I've found it surprisingly easy to have a balanced lifestyle here.

There are so many outdoor activities to do near Barcelona.Jordan Mautner

There are mountains and beaches surrounding the city, and you could visit both in a single day.

There are plenty of mountain trails and beaches.Jordan Mautner

Weekend trips are easily accessible and breathtaking.

The Costa Brava region in Spain.Jordan Mautner

The afternoon siesta is a real thing, and you have to plan accordingly.

Lots of people take a break at midday.Jordan Mautner

I've never eaten dinner so late.

Dinner is served closer to 9 p.m.Jordan Mautner

Gaudí architecture is everywhere, and it's beautiful.

La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.Jordan Mautner

I spent $650 a night to stay at a Waldorf Astoria hotel in Rome with my daughter. The incredible views weren't even the best part.

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