The Window Seat: 4 reasons why single sightseeing in Barcelona is the best.

Going in solo on a holiday mission does not mean you will spend more money, be painfully lonely or end up in a compromising situation. Quite the opposite, really. You are on your own time, you can walk instead of use transport to save cash and decide if you want to see the entire city in a day, or read for hours on a bench somewhere.

Here are 4 reasons why I wouldn’t have seen Barcelona any other way, than on my own:

1. You can walk your own path. Barcelona, like most other European cities, is pedestrian friendly. And if you don’t want to spend your precious and admittedly weak euros on a cab, then kicking it old school by grabbing a map, a pen and some comfy shoes is the way to go. Most sites such as the Sagrada Familia, The Gothic Quarter, La Ramblas and some of Gaudi’s work is within walking proximity of each other, but be prepared to clock in some kilometres. There is no better feeling than falling deeply into a slumber after a long day of adventuring.

2. You can linger longer: Want to spend 20 minutes in an 18^th century cathedral trying to take a picture of the stained glass window in the absolute right light? Go ahead. Want to wander the Gaudi Village for hours? Do it. There are so many reasons to take your time in Barcelona, and by the looks of it, the locals feel the same way. Marvel at the architecture. Enjoy a glass of wine on the side of the road while people watching. Browse the fashion stores in Barcelonata without feeling the need to buy anything. Your time is precious, yes. But it’s your own.

3. You don’t have to share: Table for two? No! Table for one! Tapas are meant to be shared, but that does not mean you can’t enjoy them solo. Enjoy your food with a glass of sangria (a wine, rum, brandy and fruit cooler) Cava (Catalan sparkling wine) and savour every bite. Paella is easy to come by in Barcelona, but if you grab a bite to eat on the busy main walkway La Ramblas, you are sure to be ripped off. Rather wander away from the crowds and go with an authentic looking restaurant. You should pay no more than R100 for good, fresh seafood paella.

4. You choose the single bed. Yes, it’s slightly cramped, but sleeping in a single bed and therefore renting a smaller room means that you will not pay an obscene amount for accommodation. I recommend renting out a room in a house or apartment on Airbnb. It’s safe, affordable and great for getting local advice. I opted to stay right in the centre of the Gothic area in Barcelona – extremely central but very loud. If you cannot stand hearing laughter and music well into the night (why wouldn’t you!) you can opt for a quieter neighbourhood, but it might be a fit further out. Regardless, renting a single room in a house with local residents is a great way to make friends and gain valuable advice.