Barcelona is known for its architecture, parks, beaches, and preference for bikes as transportation. The author spent the day riding around the city, stopping to enjoy sangria on the beach. While trying to avoid an accident with a pedestrian, the author brushed against him. When the author gestured in exasperation, the pedestrian launched into an angry tirade in Catalan. Though the author didn't understand, the pedestrian called her a "bitch" in English, embarrassing her in front of others. The experience showed her to enjoy Barcelona's outdoor activities cautiously.

1. Barcelona, Spain
Unforgettable Bike Ride
Barcelona, the colorful Catalan city of España, boasts some of the most fanciful architecture,
pedestrian-friendly avenues, verdant parks, and lively beaches in all of Europe. Situated on
the Eastern coast of Spain, Barcelona is an outdoor lover’s ideal getaway. Given its mild,
Mediterranean-style weather, basking in the sun, walking through the many historic sites,
or noshing tapas at a sidewalk bar is pleasurable year-round. Plus, opting for bikes to
venture out in exploration of the city is the often-preferred means of transportation for
both wayfarers and locals alike. Thus, to effectively immerse within the local culture, my
first morning in Barcelona consisted of a stroll through an expansive open-aired market –
La Boqueria – for some tasty bites and, of course, a bike rental.
I spent the better part of the day riding across pebbled streets and around renowned
structures, stopping only to down a liter of sangria on a soft-sanded beach; I was lost in
Barcelona’s sweeping vivacity… So much so that I failed to remember just how passionate
Spaniards can be. As I was attempting to cross a busy intersection, so, too, were a plethora
of pedestrians. One of which chose to step directly in my perceived path line. Trying to
avoid an all-out collision and ensuing embarrassment (I didn’t want to be that American), I
frantically swerved and just brushed him…whew. However, in my state of relief, I casually
threw up my hand in exasperation. Oops. It was as if all time came to a screeching halt. Out
of the mouth of that feisty, I-can-walk-where-I-please Spanish lad came an earsplitting,
heady mix of the Catalan dialect. All eyes were on me as I tried in vain to peddle like never
before, only to be followed by the loud-mouthed gent who was going off on a total tirade
that everyone around could decipher except me. I was finally able to gain enough ground;
however, my new acquaintance left me with a final departing word that I understood as
plain as day. In the midst of all the unfamiliar Spanish garble, he managed to yell out
“bitchhhhh”. Boom. I was instantly the laughing stock, but I will hand it to him; it was a
well-played effort. Although I do surmise he intentionally learned that one English word
and kept it in the memory bank for all foreigners who dared cross his path. Lesson learned:
when in Barcelona, take part in its ample outdoor activities…but do so at your own risk!