[Day-1] Solo Female Trip to Spaim & Portugal : Barcelona Arrival

[Day-1] The beginning of my journey to Barcelona ✈️

I’ve traveled abroad every year, but embarking on my first solo trip to Europe didn't feel real until I was on my way to the airport. Here is the record of my first day—a whirlwind of excitement, minor crises, and heartwarming local kindness!

📦 he Incheon Airport Baggage Crisis (20kg → 15kg)

My flight was scheduled for 11:05 AM, but I arrived at Incheon Airport by 7:00 AM to settle my nerves. However, a crisis hit immediately at the check-in counter: my 28-inch suitcase weighed 20kg, but my T'way Air allowance was strictly 15kg. 😂

I had to scramble to the side and start repacking on the spot. I stuffed everything possible into my backpack and carry-on bags. After a frantic juggling act, I finally hit the 15kg mark! Looking at my overloaded trolley, I felt less like a traveler and more like I was migrating to a new country forever. 🎒

The 15kg struggle was real! 😂 Repacked everything into my backpack and carry-on to avoid extra fees. Doesn't it look like I'm moving abroad forever? 👜🎒

😨 Unexpected Aircraft Change & The Seat Refund

Just 30 minutes before boarding, a sudden notice arrived: the aircraft had been changed. When I checked my new assignment, I realized my specifically purchased premium seat was gone, and I was placed on the complete opposite side of the cabin. 😨

Though flustered, I contacted T'way Air customer service immediately from the boarding gate. Fortunately, the staff confirmed a full refund for my original seat purchase. I was so frantic during the process that I didn't even get a chance to take a photo of the chaos... 😭

🧙🏻 A 15-Hour Flight: Time Stood Still ☁️

The direct flight to Barcelona took a staggering 14 hours and 55 minutes. To keep my energy up, I made sure to enjoy the in-flight meals. 🍱

• First Meal: A hearty and authentic Bibimbap.
• Second Meal: Soft Sausage and Scrambled Eggs.

No matter how many times I napped and woke up, we were still floating above the clouds. It felt like a magical bubble where time had stopped. Finally, wheels touched down, and immigration was a breeze—I received my manual passport stamp and officially stepped into Spain!

Korean bibimbap in-flight meal with vegetables and beef on a T'way Air A330-200 aircraft

🚇 Navigating to the City via Metro 🎫

By the time I left the airport, the city was already dark. I opted for the Metro (Line L9 Sud) over the airport bus for a more relaxed journey.

📍 Essential Transportation Tips:

• The Right Ticket: You must purchase a specific Airport Single Ticket. Please note that the popular T-Casual card is only for city zones and won't work for the airport stretch!
• Handle with Care: The ticket is made of thin paper; any creases might cause it to fail at the gates.
• Open Doors Manually: Don't wait for the train doors to open automatically! You need to press the >< button on the door once the train stops. 🚪

While I was wandering near the turnstiles looking lost, a staff member suddenly shouted, "To the right!!" at the top of his lungs. 😂 His booming guidance and friendly energy made me burst into laughter, instantly melting away my travel jitters.

Also, be warned that many European stations lack elevators. I was struggling with my heavy bags on the stairs when a kind local man stepped in and helped me carry them all the way up! 👍🏻 What a wonderful first impression of Barcelona.

Waiting for the L9 Sud metro line at Barcelona Airport. Remember to buy the specific Airport Ticket! 🚇🎫

🏠 First Stay: Checking into Yeah Hostel Barcelona

My first base was Yeah Hostel, and the location is absolutely incredible! 📍 Landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà, and Casa Batlló are all within easy walking distance.

• Check-in: Completed quickly via a QR code at the counter. 📱
• City Tax: Remember to have some cash or a card ready for the City Tax, which must be paid on-site.
• Honest Review: While the female staff was a bit brusque, the male staff was exceptionally kind. The social vibe and facilities are top-notch for solo travelers!

I ended my long first day by grabbing a bottle of water and organizing my gear. Falling onto that cozy bed was the best feeling in the world. 🌙💤

Finally arrived at my first base! Falling onto this cozy bed was the best feeling after a 15-hour journey. 🌙💤

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