Get all decked out… Fira de Santa Llúcia
Like most people visiting Sitges for the Christmas break, you are probably staying in an apartment. Don't forget to brighten it up with some Christmas cheer. The Fira de Santa Llúcia has been delighting us with traditional Christmas Fair since 1786. With over 300 stalls selling handmade decorations and gifts, christmas trees and mistletoe be sure to check it out if you are in Barcelona over the next few days.
Fira de Santa Llúcia, Pla de la Seu & Avda de la Catedral, Metro Jaume I, Dec 2-23, www.firesifestes.com.
Get decked up…. in Style – Maremàgnum
Or perhaps you would rather decorate yourself! Maremàgnum is an exclusive black mirrored shopping centre that is now over 10 years old and has become a Barcelona shopping institution. It has been recently redecorated and has a new lease of life. Gone are the gaudy discos and back are the trendy shops and restaurants. Check out Xocoa for some delicious chocolate treats or visit the family market on the ground floor where they have every sweet you can imagine.
Moll d’Espanya, Port Vell (93 225 81 00/www.maremagnum.es). Metro Drassanes. Open 10am-10pm daily.
Get into the Christmas Spirit…. Vila Viniteca
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without some Christmas Spirits. We just adore Vila Viniteca a family-run business which now boasts over 6,000 different wines and spirits in Stock. From the very cheap (€2 bottles of table wine) to the very expensive (1953 Damoiseau rum – €500) they have just added a new food shop which is perfect for fine cheeses, cured meets, olive oils and other delicacies.
C/Agullers 7, Born (93 268 32 27/www.vilaviniteca.es). Metro Jaume I.
Saints and Sinners – Caelum
Spain's religious orders have been hiding a secret fro many years! No nothing so evil.. just some delicious traditional food and drink made from some amazing flavours. Imagine such combinations as eucalyptus and orange liqueur all wrapped up in some beautiful pacakaging. You can even taste the food before you decide to buy any item by eating in the onsite cafe which is located on the site of a medieval thermal bath.
C/Palla 8, Barri Gòtic (93 302 69 93). Metro Liceu.
Remember, most stores will close early on Christmas Eve and not re-open until after Boxing Day/Stephen's Day and some will stay closed for a few days extra in preparation for the awesome January sales….
