visited my cousins in spain and spent time in both madrid and barcelona. being a spanish speaker made everything feel more natural. no language barrier, no awkward translation moments, just flowing with the city. both cities had a lot of energy, great food, and a nightlife that doesn't quit. in barcelona i visited the sagrada familia, which is as impressive in person as everyone says. also went to "el brunch," an electronic music festival. dancing in the sun with good music and good people. tried tapas and paella at a few places and everything was delicious. didn't spend enough time in either city to go deep, but both left me wanting to come back for longer.