“The quality of life in Barcelona is higher than in many European capitals”, by Luigi Salmoiraghi
Originally from Italy, Luigi Salmiraghi is 52 years old, married, and has a five-year-old son. He moved to Barcelona in September 2000, and three years later set up a fractional management services business, which helps both start-ups and existing companies to improve their sales and marketing.
Why did you choose Barcelona?
When I had to choose where to open the Spanish delegation of the firm D-Link in summer 2000, Madrid and Barcelona both seemed like great options, but it was Barcelona that won me over.
Right from the outset, I appreciated the way of working and doing business in Barcelona, which is very similar to my hometown, Milan. Both are very cosmopolitan, very European cities that enjoy a remarkable range of cultural activities. Furthermore, my first collaborators were originally from Barcelona and they introduced me to the less tourism-oriented, more authentic Barcelona.
What aspects of the city would you highlight as being positive?
It has been said many times before, but the quality of life in Barcelona is higher than in many European capitals. Despite being a large city, it still has the human touch, a Mediterranean climate that is the envy of Europe, and a range of museums, galleries, events, and modernista architecture that deserve a special mention.
And many professionals have been attracted to the city by its cosmopolitan ecosystem and a number of leading sectors in which they can grow and thrive.
What aspects of the city must be improved? How?
At the local level, there is certainly a lot of work to be done to improve mobility. I get around by bike, but air pollution is a problem in the city, mainly due to the volume of traffic. More could be done to reduce emissions by encouraging the use of public transport and electric vehicles.
Another challenge that needs to be addressed is security. It is true that the crime rate in Barcelona is relatively low compared to other European cities, but there are some areas of the city where petty crime is a problem that needs to be dealt with.
And lastly, on an international level, Barcelona needs to regain some of the luster it has lost in recent years. In my trips to Italy, for example, I have noticed how people’s view of Barcelona does not correspond to reality. Barcelona should reinforce its marketing in order to strengthen its own brand. As a frequent flyer I would also welcome an airport with a greater range of long-haul flights.
What do you expect from Barcelona in the coming years?
It would be a great start if the points I raise above could all be solved. And it is important for all of us to take our responsibility as Barcelonians seriously, whether we were born here or have chosen to live here. This means going the extra mile and doing out bit to make Barcelona an outstanding city.
Which city do you feel as «your city»? What do you miss the most?
I can honestly say that I feel just as home in Barcelona as I do in Milan. They are both my home towns and when I’m away from Barcelona for a few days I really miss it. And when you miss someone or something it is because you truly love them.
