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Effects of Barcelona Politics and Protests

Posted by (Washington, the State ) on

With our trip to Barcelona coming up in the next few weeks, we are trying to keep up with the political situation there. Today I read there were protests blocking several highways and demonstrations in front of the German Consulate and the offices of the European Commission. We're not in a panic, or considering changing plans, we just want to be aware of what we might encounter. For example, I've noticed that over the past few months the Aerobus route occasionally has skipped some stops due to demonstrations or parades. Now I've got a back-up plan in case Plaça de Catalunya is shut down.

I do have a couple questions for locals or current travelers:

Where are most of the government offices located? (I found the German Consulate, but can't find the office of the European Commission, both sites of demonstrations today.) We'd not like to turn a corner on our wanders and unexpectedly encounter a hazardous situation.

What is a reliable online news source for Catalunya? I've noticed stories on BBC but would like something more local, possibly in English.

Thanks for any help.

Posted by
812 posts

We were just in Barcelona and there were some demonstrations during our stay. We never felt unsafe during any part of the trip. Our hotel was very good about keeping guests apprised of protests in the city. In addition, I always register our trip with the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, so that we receive alerts on areas that may need to be avoided during a specific period.

Posted by
107 posts

Thank you, Bill, for your detailed reply and informative links. Thanks also for catching my 'government' slip. I'm still learning the many layers of the political situation in Catalunya and I meant no disrespect. Obviously, I have a lot to learn.

Thanks, too, TravelBug, registering with the State Department is on my list of things to do next week.

Posted by
107 posts

Post trip report:
Barcelona was delightful and like TravelBug79 we never felt threatened or in danger. We DID, however, turn a corner and encounter a demonstration demanding 'Liberdad' for Cataláns held as political prisoners. Very orderly, organized and brief. But a surprise nonetheless.

Posted by
2942 posts

We Catalans are not violent and this is how to do demonstrations when it comes to demanding freedom and respect for civil rights. This is not a "fringe group of people demanding this or that" but a large chunk of the Catalan society, from all ages and walks of life. Glad you had a good time in my hometown. ;)

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