Health, Wealth, Relationships, Wisdom
Here are my favorite mechanics, spray painters and car detailers in Barcelona.
Catalonia, located in northeastern Spain, offers nearly 580 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline. From wild coves in the Costa Brava to the expansive golden sands of the Costa Daurada, this region is rich in variety and natural beauty. Below is a curated list of some of the most stunning beaches in Catalonia, each with its own character and charm.
A small, tranquil cove with crystal-clear waters, Cala d’en Malaret is nestled within a quiet residential area. It is easily accessible and perfect for families or couples looking to avoid crowds.
This charming cove looks like a postcard come to life, with brightly colored fishermen’s huts lining the pebbly shore. It offers a rustic, authentic Mediterranean experience.
Accessible only by foot or boat, Cala Pedrosa is a secluded, rocky beach surrounded by pine trees and cliffs. It offers a raw, natural beauty ideal for adventurous visitors.
Tucked beneath the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, this turquoise-water cove is accessible only by sea. It’s a peaceful escape for those seeking privacy and scenic beauty.
Situated between Blanes and Lloret de Mar, Cala Treumal combines natural charm with convenient amenities like a beach bar, showers, and boat rentals.
This town blends beach life with medieval heritage. Tossa’s main beach sits below the 12th-century walled old town, offering not just sun and sand but also a journey through history.
Named after the large reddish rock that dominates the beach, this naturist-friendly cove features coarse sand and breathtaking scenery. It is one of the most iconic beaches in the Costa Brava.
Known for its shallow, turquoise waters and fine sand, Aiguablava is ideal for families. Though small, it provides nearby restaurants and facilities for a comfortable visit.
This picturesque fishing village has a charming cove with calm waters and whitewashed houses. It is perfect for a peaceful, scenic retreat with quality local dining options.
S’Agaró offers elegance and ease, featuring the long Sant Pol Beach with its golden sand and shallow waters. Its coastal path (camí de ronda) is one of the most beautiful walks in the region.
Over the years, I’ve come to realize something that’s quietly changed my life: I prefer to be happy than to be right.
It didn’t happen overnight. I’ve always had a sharp mind and a strong opinion about, well, almost everything. I used to thrive on debate, feeling a surge of satisfaction when I could prove a point or win an argument. It wasn’t even about showing off (at least not always). I genuinely believed that being right mattered — that facts and logic were the highest virtues.
But slowly, life taught me otherwise. Not through a single grand epiphany, but through dozens of small, humbling moments. Arguments that lingered longer than they should have. Relationships that felt more strained than supported. A quiet, nagging feeling that even when I won, I lost something.
The truth is, being right can come at a cost — especially when it means making someone else feel wrong. And when that someone is a friend, a partner, a child, or a colleague, the cost often outweighs the benefit.
Choosing happiness doesn’t mean abandoning truth or lowering standards. It means knowing when to let go. It means asking myself: “Is this really worth it? Is the outcome I’m chasing going to bring me peace or just momentary satisfaction?”
These days, I pick my battles more carefully. I listen more. I let others have the last word. Sometimes I even smile and nod, knowing full well I disagree — not out of resignation, but out of love. Out of the understanding that connection matters more than correction.
This doesn’t mean I’m a pushover. I’ll still stand up when it counts. But I’ve learned the wisdom in pausing, in giving space, in prioritizing harmony over ego.
At the end of the day, I’d rather sleep well than feel smug. I’d rather have peace in my home and heart than be crowned the champion of a trivial dispute. And funny enough, the more I’ve leaned into this mindset, the more right my life has felt.
So yes, I still value truth. But I value joy more. I value love more. I value the quiet power of choosing happiness — even when I could have been right.
In early March, I received a shocking €900 fine from the Servei Català de Trànsit (Catalan Transit Agency). The charge? Failing to identify the driver of my privately owned vehicle for a previous traffic violation. But here’s the twist: I was never properly notified about that earlier request. Like many people, I didn’t find out until it was too late—the original notice had been published in the BOE (Spain’s official government bulletin), which I never saw.
This article walks through the exact steps I took, what I learned along the way, and what I recommend to others who might be facing a similar situation.
The €900 fine was not for speeding or parking—it was for a failure to identify the driver. Under Spanish traffic law, vehicle owners are required to respond to certain notices identifying who was driving at the time of an infraction. If you don’t, a second fine is issued, often much larger than the original.
In my case, I hadn’t responded simply because I never received the original notice. It turns out it was published in the BOE without any attempt to notify me directly at home.
I submitted an alegación on March 4, explaining that I had not received the original driver identification request and therefore could not have replied to it. The alegación is your formal right to respond to a proposed sanction before it becomes final. It temporarily freezes the process while the Servei Català de Trànsit reviews your explanation.
You can submit this online, by mail, or in person. It’s crucial to do it within the timeline indicated in the notice (usually 20 days).
After filing, the fine is put on hold. You do not need to pay anything until the administration issues a decision on your alegación. No interest accrues, and the case doesn’t move to enforcement while your appeal is pending.
I waited several weeks with no reply—which is normal. The SCT can take a few months to respond.
Here’s what can happen next:
Important note: For this kind of infraction, no early-payment discount applies. That means if your alegación is rejected, you’ll owe the full €900.
If your alegación is rejected, you still have two options:
In my case, I decided that I didn’t want to incur legal fees. I can afford to pay the €900 if it comes to that, but I find it excessive—and I imagine most people would struggle with a fine of that size.
The system is tough and unjust, especially when it relies on BOE publication instead of proper notification. But you do have rights, and the alegación process gives you a fair shot to contest unreasonable penalties.
I’ll update this article if and when I receive a final decision. For now, I hope sharing this helps others understand their options and make an informed choice when faced with a traffic fine like this in Catalonia.
Planning a birthday bash or an intimate celebration in Barcelona? Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic rooftop, a cozy café terrace, or a breezy beachside setup, the city offers a rich variety of venues perfect for small gatherings. Here are some local recommendations that blend style, atmosphere, and charm — ideal for memorable get-togethers.
Nestled on the slopes of Tibidabo, Mirabé offers breathtaking views over the city. Its elegant atmosphere, paired with excellent food and a chic terrace, makes it a top choice for a small celebration. It’s a particularly romantic spot at sunset, with panoramic vistas that impress every guest.
This classic venue, perched on Montjuïc hill, combines traditional Catalan architecture with stunning cityscape views. Xalet de Montjuïc is perfect for a slightly more formal birthday lunch or evening event, especially during warmer months when you can enjoy the outdoor space.
Another gem on Montjuïc, Terraza Miramar offers a tranquil garden-like setting with panoramic views of the port and sea. The relaxed, stylish ambiance makes it a wonderful choice for an outdoor birthday celebration or a casual evening with friends and family.
For a centrally located and stylish rooftop experience, check out the terrace of a hotel along Passeig de Gràcia. While some spots may come at a premium, the views, ambiance, and location are often worth the price—especially for a special occasion.
Right across from Parc de la Ciutadella, Al Sur Café offers a relaxed vibe with good food and affordable prices. Their terrace is great for a casual daytime event.
Depending on the time of year, you can reserve chairs and tables at a chiringuito on the beach. These casual seaside bars are perfect for a laid-back party with toes in the sand and a drink in hand. They’re particularly fun for kids’ birthdays or adult gatherings with a relaxed, summery feel.
If you’re looking for something unique, check out Spathios — a platform that lists a variety of spaces for rent across the city. From modern lofts to boho-style terraces and artistic studios, you’re bound to discover a venue that fits your vibe and budget.
Whether you’re after breathtaking views, bohemian flair, or casual beachside fun, Barcelona has a perfect spot for your next small event. Make your celebration one to remember!
Want help booking or choosing based on your event size or style? Just say the word!
