An Expat Talks about Living in Barcelona, Spain

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Barcelona

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

Men - Rotary International; women - Barcelona Women's Network; both - American Society of Barcelona; Protestant Church - St. Peter's.

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Barcelona is a very diverse town, and the Catalans accept diversity - as long as they're not from Madrid!

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Industries: ditto. Career opportunities - Barcelona is developing into a "New Technology - High Technology" center, as well as being a center for pharmaceutical companies and telecommunications companies - both growth industries. People find jobs by:

a. contacts
b. contacts
c. contacts
d. hard work

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Priorities: work, work, work - and enjoying the excellent weather (the three S's, which can be "sun, sea, and sex" or "swimming, sailing, and skiing" - about the same thing).

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Come and enjoy Barcelona - be responsible and most of all punctual, work hard, be prepared to play if you're young (let's say under 40), and you'll have a great time.