Mary-Ann Gallagher – författare

Bradt's newly published Catalunya & Barcelona has the most extensive coverage of any travel guidebook to the whole of this fiercely independent region (both French and Spanish sides), which is proud of its strong identity and packs a huge amount of fascination and contrast into a conveniently small area – from the Pyrenees mountains and sparkling Mediterranean coves to crisp cava and world-renowned cuisine. Although Barcelona, with its Gaudí architecture, may be the best-known destination, the rest of Catalunya generates the identity of which local residents are so proud. Although officially a semi-autonomous comunidad, Catalunya feels like a separate country – as arguably befits its history as a medieval kingdom that ruled parts of southernmost France, the Balearics and even what is now the Italian island of Sardinia. Written by long-time travel authors Dana Facaros and Michael Pauls, and Mary-Ann Gallagher, who has lived in Barcelona since the mid-2000s, Bradt's new guidebook furnishes detailed background and practical information in eight easy-to-follow chapters, providing in-depth guides to Barcelona plus the provincial capitals of Girona, Tarragon and Lleida, alongside sections covering the Costa Brava (where charming fishing villages and isolated beaches offset mass-tourism resorts), the Pyrenees (including Andorra) and French Catalunya (including Perpignan). Written with a light, deft touch that conveys a genuine passion for Catalan culture and people, Catalunya & Barcelona provides manifold reasons to get off the beaten path and explore areas that offer outstanding natural beauty, great food, history and culture. In this region of contrasting landscapes, it is eminently possible to ski in the Pyrenees in the morning, then sunbathe on a Mediterranean beach in the afternoon. Discover Catalunya's strangest festivals, from pet blessings and silent choirs to dancing eggs and human castles. Bring history to life by visiting Iberian villages, Roman walls and washtubs, haunting Romanesque frescoes, medieval hamlets where time seems to have stopped. Explore blissfully uncrowded nature reserves and mountain ranges, smuggler paths on rugged coasts, valleys scented with almond and cherry blossom. And savour the best Catalan cuisine, considered one of the world's finest, from traditional country towns to avant-garde culinary fireworks in globally renowned restaurants. AUTHORS: Dana Facaros and Michael Pauls spent a year in Spain and for the last two decades plus have lived in southwest France, only three hours from the Catalan border. They first visited the region in 1980, when the food was awful and parts of Barcelona were still very dodgy, but you could buy a flat for a few grand (unfortunately they didn't!) They go back as often as possible. Originally from the UK, Mary-Ann Gallagher is a writer, translator and editor who has lived in Barcelona for the past 20 years and has contributed to more than two dozen guidebooks on Catalunya and Spain. She's explored every nook and cranny of the region over the years, gaining a deep understanding of its unique culture, traditions and landscape. It's hard to resist a place which builds human castles that are ten storeys high, unleashes fire-spitting dragons at every festival, and where food – from humble pa amb tomàquet to the fanciest foams – is always front and centre of every gathering. A long-time friend and collaborator of the extraordinary Dana Facaros and Michael Pauls writing duo, she is thrilled to be a part of this book's journey. 40 colour photos, 23 maps

Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Spain, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.Inside this Spain travel book, you'll find:- Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one- Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests- Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more- Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities- Seasonal tips - when to go to Spain, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip- Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - flamenco in Seville, sherry tasting in Jerez, Burgos cathedral, Ibiza's hidden coves, Segovia, the Dalí museum, Toledo, Cordoba, paradores- Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment- Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Spain- Language essentials - a handy Spanish dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals- Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Spain, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust- Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide- Coverage includes: Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, Andalucía, La Rioja, León, the Basque country, Asturias, Galicia, Barcelona, Valencia, Balearic Islands