Sebastiaan Hooft

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Barcelona, Mercat de Sants stands as a testament to the city's rich culinary and cultural heritage. This bustling marketplace is not just a destination; it's an experience, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Barcelona's locals. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the nooks and crannies of a city, Mercat de Sants is a must-visit.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with an explosion of sights, sounds, and smells that instantly captivate your senses. Each stall is a treasure trove of fresh, high-quality produce, ranging from vibrant fruits and vegetables to an impressive variety of meats, seafood, and cheeses. The market is a focal point for locals, showcasing the best of what the region has to offer and highlighting the importance of fresh, local ingredients in Spanish cuisine.

But Mercat de Sants is more than just a place to buy groceries. It's a vibrant community hub where locals and visitors alike come together, sharing stories and smiles over delicious food. The surrounding eateries and bars offer a chance to taste traditional dishes and tapas, made with ingredients sourced directly from the market. It's an opportunity to not only taste but also to engage with the local culture and culinary traditions.

The market's modernist architecture, dating back to the early 20th century, adds another layer of charm to the visit. The structure itself is a piece of Barcelona's architectural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Mercat de Sants is a vibrant, lively market that captures the essence of Barcelona's spirit. Its blend of culinary delights, cultural richness, and historical significance makes it an essential stop for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the authentic Barcelona experience.

After a train journey from Amsterdam, I found myself craving a well-made cup of coffee. Araku Coffee was a haven that exceeded my expectations. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the immaculate and inviting space – all white and impeccably clean. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, providing an immediate sense of comfort.

The barista was warm and welcoming, greeting me with a friendly smile. My order was taken promptly, and within minutes, I was presented with a carefully crafted cup of filter coffee. The service was not only swift but also attentive – it's evident that the staff at Araku Coffee truly care about their customers' experience.

The coffee itself was exceptional. The taste was rich, smooth, and aromatic, highlighting the skill of the barista and the quality of the beans used. It was served in a beautiful cup, adding a touch of elegance to the overall experience. The attention to detail in both the coffee and the presentation is remarkable.

In a world where rushed service and mediocre coffee are all too common, Araku Coffee stands out as a haven for coffee enthusiasts. I wholeheartedly recommend this café to anyone who appreciates good coffee, served with genuine hospitality in a welcoming environment.

Olympic Gym Amsterdam, situated centrally in the city, provides a laid-back environment for fitness enthusiasts who prefer to concentrate on their personal routines. As a local resident and frequent user of the gym, I've found it to be generally conducive for maintaining a regular fitness regimen.

The gym’s focus appears to be centered around individuals who take their health and lifestyle seriously, providing a non-intimidating space for all body types and mindsets to carry out their workouts without interference.

One unique aspect of Olympic Gym is its extensive assortment of fitness equipment. Seemingly every fitness tool imaginable is available here, with each corner of the gym offering something different. This variety could potentially help to diversify one's workout routine and target different muscle groups more effectively.

However, potential users should note that this gym is more geared towards self-directed workouts rather than fostering a communal environment. If you prefer an individually-focused workout experience with a wide array of equipment, Olympic Gym might be a suitable choice.

We got a recommendation for this restaurant at the Intercontinental Madrid. We asked for a vegan restaurant. We arrived a 2 PM and the place was empty. I would recommend going at 2.30 Spanish lunch time. The staff was friendly and one waiter assisted us in English. He was super kind and explained to us all the dishes, including how they are prepared. He recommended their signature dishes. The lettuce, croquet and a kind of stuff friend vegetable. All three were special and tasty. Normally we skip dessert but we loved the food so much that we shared a lemon creme. Before we left the waiter gave us a tour through their the restaurant, that included their private dining space and huge garden. When we were leaving they gave us two bags with fresh lettuce for in the hotel. We recommend this great place.