Straddling in between the Mediterranean Sea and the southern French border, the autonomous region of Catalonia, or Catalunya, boasts of a history distinct from the rest of Spain dating back to the early Middle Ages. Northwards, the Pyrenees proudly wears its culture on its sleeve in which the Catalan language is more widely spoken than Spanish. Stream towards the coast and Costa Brava’s showy affluence speaks of the Catalans’ ability to do good in life. Then turn your attention inland to find the ancient provincial capitals of Girona and Tarragona as proud living relics of Catalonia’s formidable past. Understand these arresting differences and subtle nuances alike with a customised Catalonia tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and start discovering the captivating Catalan state of mind.
Game for Girona
Filled with a fetching mix of architectural styles from Gothic, Moorish, Jewish to Modernisme, it is no wonder why “Game of Thrones”, the popular drama series, set its heart on Girona, the largest and most vibrant city of northern Catalonia. For fans of the series, nothing can be better than to stroll through filming sites such as the gorgeous Girona Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter and reimagine all the drama. To all others, Girona has got plenty more to offer such as discovering authentic Catalan cuisine and if you have the appetite for it, indulge in a splendid meal at El Celler de Can Roca, ranked second in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2016.

Tailing the Romans in Tarragona
Tarragona, located south of Barcelona, is an intriguing collision of ancient heritage and modern effervescence. For a sampling, one needs to only start with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tarraco, a collection of Roman ruins including its 2nd-century amphitheatre by the sea, and stroll through this well-preserved testament to the city’s ancient Roman might. Thereafter, take a languid stroll away from the historic centre of town to the aptly-named Platja del Miracle beach to daze and dream with fellow beachgoers. Then whizz yourself to the old-world fishing village of El Serrallo and feast on fresh seafood prepared in the traditional Catalan way. Finally end the day listening to funky jazz and dancing to salsa in one of the city’s many charming bars.