Another year is rolling to a close. Are you going to let it slide away into the archive of forgotten memories, or might you seize the moment and treat yourself to a taste of luxury in Barcelona? Its worth remembering that luxury isnt necessarily about extravagance and over-spending, and that Christmas is a time when many simple pleasures that resonate with the essence of luxury – beyond the ordinary – can be enjoyed. Barcelonas Christmas lights sparkle overhead, seasonal markets entice us back towards the traditional, and the aroma of hot roasted chestnuts wafts through the streets. However, if what youre really after is a blast of Barcelona indulgence then here are a few suggestions.
1. Party in style at CDLC
A favourite with celebrities and the international jet-setters that step off the superyachts docked in nearby Port Vell, CDLC fuses contemporary glamour with oriental glitz. Its dcor includes a large golden Buddha, white draped curtains that separate private lounge dining areas, and intricate Arabic lamps. The restaurant serves designer cuisine with a strong emphasis on sushi and Asian dishes combined with Mediterranean influences.
Once the dessert spoons are licked clean the dancing begins. Models shake their sculpted shapes on the dancefloor to electronic beats from resident DJs and guests. You can relax though, as they are always outnumbered by regular party-goers who just want to splash out for the night and have as much fun as they can. Passeig Maritim 32.
2. Shop like a VIP in Passeig de Grcia
Barcelonas most elegant boulevard stretches from Plaa Catalunya to Diagonal. Its many architectural highlights include the magnificent Casa Batll and La Pedrera by the renowned Modernist visionary Antoni Gaud. However, many visitors are more interested in designs by a different kind of luminary. Stilettos by Jimmy Choo, this seasons new cocktail dress by Dolce and Gabanna, or a silk scarf to keep out the winter chill by Herms… Be prepared to vie for the shop assistants attention with a steady stream of Russian mistresses and Chinese shopaholics.
If youre in Barcelona on the 4thDecember youre in luck, as The Shopping Night Barcelona presents Hollywood: The Golden Age. All the shops will be open until 1am, with complimentary cava and special promotions to lubricate the grip on your credit card.
3. Enjoy a night at the Liceu Opera
This prestigious venue was founded on La Rambla in 1847 and has since held some of the most important opera performances in Spain. Artists including Jos Carreras and Plcido Domingo have received standing ovations, the premires of Verdis Il Trovatore and Puccinis La Bohme” have been celebrated, and the cultural elite of Barcelona society have made eyes at each other during hundreds of shows here.
Treat yourself to a special evening out and catch the December performance of Gaetano Donizettis Mara Stuarda at the Gran Theatre de Liceu, which tells the historic tragedy of Mary Queen of Scots who defied her powerful cousin Elizabeth I and quite literally lost her head. La Rambla 51-59.
4. Relax at the Arabic Baths
Aire de Barcelona is more than just a spa. Its a multisensory experience that has been carefully designed to refresh and pamper you inside and out. Its authentic techniques date back to civilisations that had mastered the art of living well. Roman style baths range from the Caldarium (ouch,thats hot,) to Templarium (mmm,perfect) and Firgidarium (yeoww, too cold.) Enjoy the benefits of alternating between these temperatures, combined with a massage or additional beauty treatment such as the Argan Ritual with warm argan oil from Morocco. Open your pores in the Arabic Hammam and rehydrate with a cup of mint tea on the warm stones outside. Passeo Picasso 22.
5. Buy original art works from local artists
If your budget for Christmas presents stretches further than a stick of turrn and a woolly hat then Barcelonas artistic community has plenty of creative proposals for you. Aside from giving a unique gift to someone you care about, youre also giving a double gift to the artist – appreciation of their work and some cash to keep creating with. You can find interesting pieces in the Grcia bars Sol de Nit (Pl. del Sol 9) and Joal (Carrer del Sol 7). Galeria Balaguer specializes in works by talented young artists such as Alejandra Atars (pictured) and many others, hosting exhibitions throughout the year. The Artevistas Gallery (Passatge del Crdit, 4, just off C/ Ferran) has a new exhibition every month plus a wide selection of contemporary works to choose from.
Also not to be missed during Christmas an New Year in Barcelona
