Bridging the Digital Grind with Healthy Living in Barcelona
¡Hola! My name is Vanesha. Just over a year ago, I left the serene beaches and lush landscapes of Mauritius, my home, to immerse myself in the vibrant streets and sun-kissed shores of Barcelona. While the transition from a tranquil island to Catalonia’s bustling heart might seem stark, it provided me not only with a professional landscape to further my IT aspirations but also a rich tapestry of healthy living opportunities. Barcelona, with its Mediterranean diet, penchant for outdoor activities, and a community that values mindfulness, beckoned me to adopt a lifestyle that beautifully marries tech hustle with holistic well-being. As an IT professional with an adventurous spirit, I yearned for a fresh canvas, and the digital age, brimming with mobility, allowed me to weave this vibrant tapestry of work and wellness in the heart of Spain.
A New Home Away From Home
Mauritius, with its Creole roots and paradisiacal beauty, provided a peaceful upbringing. But Barcelona’s allure — its tapestry of history blending with modernity — was irresistible. On any given day, I find myself nestled in historic Gothic quarters, working from cafes rich in tales, or in El Raval, a hub of contemporary art and culture.
The WiFi? Remarkable. The food? A delightful contrast to the Mauritian cuisine I grew up with. And the people? Their warmth rivals that of my fellow islanders.
Collaborative Workspaces to Ignite Creativity
- Betahaus
- Website: betahaus.es
- Details: Located in Gràcia, Betahaus spans several floors of collaborative workspaces. Alongside super-fast Wi-Fi, they host numerous events making networking seamless.
2. MOB (Makers of Barcelona)
- Website: mob-barcelona.com
- Details: Home to techies, designers, and thinkers, MOB not only provides working space but also a vibrant community environment.
3. OneCoWork
- Website: onecowork.com
- Details: Enjoy the inspiring views of Port Vell Marina while working in this stylishly designed space.
After-Work Pleasures
- Strolling La Rambla: One of the city’s most iconic streets, La Rambla is alive with street performers, kiosks, and the unique energy of Barcelona. It’s a great place to people-watch and absorb the local culture.
- Promenade of Barcelona: Whether it’s a golden sunset or the energetic pulse of a sunny afternoon, a walk or a cycle rickshaw tour on the beachfront promenade is an unforgettable Barcelona memory. As the rickshaw glides along the promenade, riders are treated to panoramic views of sandy beaches, iconic beachfront sculptures, bustling chiringuitos (beach bars), and vibrant pockets of local life. The knowledgeable rickshaw drivers often share tidbits about the history, culture, and little-known secrets of the coastline, making the ride not just a visual treat, but also an enriching cultural experience.
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- Beach R&R: Unwind at Barceloneta Beach. Engage in beach sports or simply soak up the sun.
- Art and Culture: Explore the Picasso Museum or Gaudi’s wonders. Don’t forget to visit barcelonaturisme.com for the latest cultural events.
- Park de la Ciutadella: This urban oasis is a wonderful spot to relax, people-watch, or even have a little picnic. The park also houses the city’s zoo and the Catalan Parliament but just wandering its paths, admiring the pond, and lounging on its grassy expanses can be a pleasure in itself.
- Gothic Quarter Exploration: Lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets of the Barri Gòtic, which is rich with history. Admire the old architecture, discover hidden squares, or simply soak in the ambiance of this ancient part of the city.
- Street Art: Barcelona’s Raval and Poblenou neighborhoods are replete with vibrant street art and graffiti. These constantly evolving urban canvases tell stories of the city’s culture, politics, and the artists themselves.
- Free Museum Days: Many of Barcelona’s museums offer free entry on certain days or times. For instance, the Museu Picasso and the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya are free on the first Sunday of each month.
- Bunkers del Carmel: Once anti-aircraft fortifications during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers now offer a panoramic view of the city. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate history and scenic views. Plus, the sunset from here is nothing short of spectacular.
- Attend Local Festivals: Depending on the season, you might stumble upon a local festival or street party. Barcelona is known for its traditional Catalan festivals, filled with human towers (castells), dragon dances, and vibrant processions.
Healthy Eateries & Cafés
- Flax & Kale
- Website: https://flaxandkale.com/en
- Details: Their flexitarian menu is diverse and health-driven, a favorite for many nomads.
2. Green & Berry
- Website: https://www.greenandberry.es/en/
- Details: Dive into a world of organic cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and more.
3. Satan’s Coffee Corner
- Follow them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/20580196/satans-coffee-corner/
- Details: A haven for coffee enthusiasts. Paired with a curated menu of healthy bites, it’s a must-visit.
Prioritizing Fitness Amidst Familiarity
While the environment changed, the importance of fitness remained consistent. Here’s how I balance my health in this new locale:
- Beach Runs & Calisthenics: Barceloneta Beach reminds me a tad bit of my days in Mauritius. The morning runs by the shore and calisthenics workouts with fellow enthusiasts keep me rooted to my love for the coast.
- Morning Yoga at Park de la Ciutadella: Sign up for community yoga sessions at https://www.meetup.com.
- HIIT at Montjuïc: Challenge yourself with group sessions. Check out https://www.moandmace.com/ for organized workout groups.
- Evening Runs at Labyrinth Park: Discover running groups on platforms like meetup.com to find fellow enthusiasts.
Healthy Lifestyle Tips for IT Digital Nomads in Barcelona
- Active Lifestyle: Embrace the city’s workout groups or gyms. A suggested platform for finding workout buddies is fitlinkapp.com.
2. Balanced Diet: With an abundance of health-conscious eateries, it’s easier than ever to maintain a nutritious diet in Barcelona.
3. Regular Breaks: Try productivity apps like forestapp.cc to maintain a balance between work and breaks.
4. Engaging Networking: Sites like eventbrite.com can keep you updated on local tech events and workshops.
5. Dive into Local Culture: Explore language exchanges on tandem.net to learn Catalan or Spanish and interact more with locals.
Barcelona invites IT digital nomads to immerse themselves in its vibrant lifestyle. The city ensures both professional productivity and personal well-being. Embrace the Mediterranean charm and thrive in Catalonia’s gem. ¡Hasta pronto!
