March 2018 Issue #15 March 2018 Issue #15, 4GUYS | Page 33

On our final night, plans to get our gay on in the Eixample district are dashed by a huge
thunderstorm which flashes lightning across the sky as we watch from the vantage
point of our 22nd-floor room. We might have missed out on the action but Barcelona
is rightly famous for its LGBT+ nightlife, which offers something to suit all tastes and is
concentrated around Casanova Street.
Before catching a bus to the airport, we squeeze in a wander up Las Ramblas, Barce-
lona’s famous tree-lined boulevard.
I think back to a previous visit, too worried about being pick-pocketed to enjoy it fully.
Now, feeling at ease in my partner’s company, and surrounded by locals and fellow
tourists from all walks of life, I uncharacteristically take his hand for a few moments.
That’s when I realise just how relaxed I’ve become during our Spanish sojourn. There
may have been times when I’ve regretted not going for the easy option and booking a
simple, week-long package holiday, but, in this special moment, I’m glad that we didn’t.
33