Hot In The City Tonight - Sexual Relations In Barcelona

Hot in the city tonight

In Barcelona is it simple enough to find someone special. I asked Barcelona natives and “guiris” (non-Catalunian) their low down on the cultural other. We asked what they like, what does it for them and whereabouts they like it? Steady tiger! All that follows is respect to inter cultural experiences!

Although you might not think it being a foreigner is actually quite sexy. For one, the popular consensus is Barcelona attracts a higher quality resident than Ibiza; the lager and kebab crowd. Being from northern Europe has its advantages. Locals Vanessa, Sandra, Elena and Monica. Elena explained, “Guiris are more exotic and open-minded to spend the evening with”. Sandra added, “.. And occasionally the night…”

As a culture, the Catalunians and English speakers share a similar sense of sarcastic humour and level headed outlook. Along with the Basques, the Spanish see us all as emotionally cold and closed. For the Brits, most of us only find our identity by enjoying a pint at a sporting event. A common turn off is the dominating national Catalunian pride. Mark from London pointed out an advantage with this, “Separatist views work to your advantage. A Spaniard would have to chat someone up in Catalan as an opening line. I however, would not be expected to.”

It is easy as hitting the town around Cuitat Vella, Gracia, Eixample and the Borne at weekend to guarantee some action. Vanessa explains, “You cannot go wrong in bars like Michael Collins or The Philharmonic and with clubs like Jamboree and Almodo-Bar”. Monica added, “Popular pulling parlours I know of are Universal, Torres and Bikini. They’re always brimming with talent”.

The most popular nightclubs to hang out for a freak-on include Karma, Mojito, Plataforma, Razzamatazz and Catwalk and club bars focused around Vil.la Olímpica Dos Torres, and Marsella. Maria and Marie from Sweden believe house parties are a sure winner. Maria explained, “Everyone’s a lot more open and welcoming. At clubs you can easily lose someone in the crowd. Marie added,”..especially at Razzamatazz”.

Still, if you are a little shy or have had limited success – try online. First place to start would be Loquo and Meetic. Additional sites include Lycos, Badoo, Bebo, Barcelona Connect and Netlog. Other places to meet foreigners are around cinemas showing original version films. “Hanging out in the bars around the Renoir is a great way to strike up a conversation”, said Alice from Italy. “You can meet people with similar interests going on local courses. You only need an intermediate level of the Spanish. By looking you can go with the flow”, emphasised Elena.

Kicking off conversations and chat up lines is relatively easy. Vanessa elaborated, “Asking someone, de donde eres? is the classic rompe hielo – ice breaker. Then ask a few basic questions and look interested”. There are a few openers one ought to avoid. These include direct questions and above all being lewd. However, never underestimate your fluency when mixing Spanish in another language. Vanessa explained saying, “A classic is a Catalan asking you tens foc? They’re asking for a light, not for any horizontal action.” Still, Maria’s experienced equally bad lines from Catalans, “I like you – you’re so Swedish, it just made me feel so unique”.

Prominent differences in dating culture are noticeable with the time spent on the first date. It is not unusual for Catalunians to invite you to spend more time out with them than you're accustomed to. It's more likely than a quick meet up coffee to suss out and go. “There’s a great drinking culture here, happening throughout the day. Here you can meet people at your local bar, more so than in Italy”, Alice commented. Physical contact in Barcelona is prevalent as in all social interaction. From the double cheek kissing and touch throughout a conversation. The author believes this creates a healthier and open communication between individuals.

In Barcelona there are a plethora of places to make a special date. Monica suggested, “In summer, take your date to Torre de Alta Mar, picnic on the beach or the infamous Mirador Fabra. The latter has privileged view of the city and the stars.”

After a perfect date do not fret popping the, ‘fancy going back to mine’, line. Still, go out prepared and do not take risks. Despite Catalunya’s Catholic influence, the populous are indifferent to the religion’s tenets, preferring to practice safe sex. It is best to enjoy the event with someone wrapped in latex love. Still sexual activity, like everywhere, demands precaution. However, there are great health sources around the city. Monica said, “Ajuntament’s website has a lot of online information. Look under ‘Salud’. The ACASC offers resources on AIDS advice.”

It is worth noting to not do something you might later regret. Prostitution is still prevalent despite recent police intervention. It continues around Cuidad Del Olympica and in the Raval. Despite your worst chat up line, you will get lucky. Take my advice. Do not do something you might pay for later.

Special thanks to all who participated in the article.