Sometimes you get all caught up in traveling while being abroad and forget to appreciate the city you're based in. I know I've been so eager to get out that I've missed some really cool events in Barcelona. Like all the local parades and festivals. But this week that wasn't the case! So here's some ideas of things to do while stay at "home".

1. Go to a parade. Okay here me out, this sounds kinda silly and yes some people might laugh. But seeing a parade is a really cool way to experience a part of the culture. I've been to two parades so far in Barcelona and both were amazing! The first was the Three Kings Parade right when we got to Barcelona. It was crazy the floats and other attractions they had. There was this giant mechanical ballerina that danced down the road. And the most recent parade for Carnival was so cute. All the kids come out and shoot confetti cannons all over. So check one out, its worth the time.

2. Go to a local festival. At least with Spain there are a ton of different little holidays and festivals popping up. My favorite so far was definitely the calçotada celebrations because of all the food! Its a celebration all about eating these really sweet spring onions with a special sauce and then eating a huge barbecue afterwards! Perfect, right? But festivals are a really good way to see more of the life of the city.

3. Go to a park. In a lot of cities around the world there are many different kinds of public parks. In Barcelona you can find full on play sets for the kiddos or a lovely green space with some pretty cool sculptures. Check out a few and enjoy some sun. Plus you get a chance to people watch!

4. Go to a museum. I know this isn't everyone's cup of tea but its really cool to learn a little about where you're at. Plus there might be some kinda off beat places to seek out. My favorite place was the Museu D' Historia de Catalunya. It has ruins from the ancient roman times to the Gothic period. Its so fun to walk through all that history!

5. Go to a sporting event. I haven't made it out to a Barca game yet but that's on the list! Seriously a soccer game or whatever's common where you're at is a really cool way to get out and experience the city. Plus, at least here in Barcelona, nothing quite compares to a soccer game. Seriously wars were halted for a match. Its worth the experience to really get in and feel the energy that a sports match brings to a city.

These are just a few ideas to get ya out and about in whatever city you're staying in!