Eixample: The Modern Heart of Girona

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-bor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-thyahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh syehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah behr lah kahr-tah, por fah-bor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-bor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon may-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido/a
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh/ah]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo/a
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh/ah]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro
  [ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dyehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [theen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksee-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ....)
  [oon bee-ye-teh (ah ....)]

The Eixample neighborhood in Girona emerged in the mid-19th century as part of a broader plan to expand the city beyond its medieval walls. This period followed the industrial revolution, which brought significant economic growth and a surge in population. The Eixample was designed to accommodate the growing number of residents and to provide modern urban amenities.

Characterized by its grid layout and wide boulevards, the Eixample reflects the architectural styles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influences from Catalan Modernisme can be seen in the buildings, with decorative facades and intricate details that showcase the artistic movement prevalent during this period. Notable architects contributed to the Eixample's aesthetic, making it a vital part of Girona's architectural heritage.

Eixample has historically served as a cultural melting pot, bringing together diverse communities in Girona. The neighborhood has seen an influx of immigrants and new residents, which has enriched its cultural landscape. This diversity is reflected in the local festivals, cuisine, and communal activities that celebrate both traditional Catalan culture and influences from other regions.

During the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939), Girona, including the Eixample, was affected by the broader political and social upheaval in Spain. The war led to a period of repression and hardship, but it also fostered a spirit of resilience among the residents. Post-war reconstruction efforts transformed parts of the Eixample, leading to further urban development in the following decades.

In recent decades, Eixample has experienced a revival, with urban renewal initiatives aimed at preserving its historical character while adapting to modern needs. The neighborhood has become a hub for local businesses, cultural events, and artistic endeavors, contributing to Girona's reputation as a vibrant city that honors its past while looking toward the future.

Eixample is centrally located in Girona, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can walk from the historic Old Town, which is about a 15-minute stroll. Alternatively, local buses such as lines 1 and 5 connect Eixample with the train station and other parts of the city. For those arriving by train, it's a short bus ride or a 20-minute walk to reach Eixample.

Eixample is a walkable neighborhood with wide boulevards and pedestrian-friendly streets. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, and Girona has a bike-friendly infrastructure. Local buses also service the area, providing easy access to other neighborhoods. Taxis are available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or apps.

Eixample is generally safe for tourists; however, it is wise to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur near popular attractions and public transport stations. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets at night and remain vigilant with personal belongings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station is located in the city center, while hospitals and medical facilities are available throughout Girona. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also prevalent in Eixample for any minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably for walking, but avoid beachwear when not at the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs; when visiting churches, dress modestly and cover shoulders. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hola' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'pà amb tomàquet.' Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Eixample like a local, visit the local bakeries for fresh pastries in the morning and enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the neighborhood cafés. Engage with local residents; they often have valuable insights about hidden gems in the area. Don't miss the vibrant food markets, where you can sample local produce and specialties, and consider joining a walking tour to learn about the neighborhood's unique architecture and history.