"Barcelona, a great metropolis and a collection of neighborhoods with their own identity," by Laura Della Guardia.
Laura Della Guardia, born in Los Angeles is a a French-American expat living in Barcelona, married to an Italian, and a proud mother to her five-year-old son. She is a luxury real estate advisor at The Agency Barcelona. With 20+ years in international negotiations and partnerships, she connects global buyers with Barcelona’s finest homes and Costa Brava properties. Leveraging her international network and digital presence, she helps clients seamlessly transition to the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Why did you choose Barcelona?
I chose Barcelona because it offers a rare equilibrium that few global hubs can match: a sunnier, more intentional lifestyle that doesn’t sacrifice international connectivity. Having moved here a year ago from London, I appreciate a city that feels vibrant and high-energy but allows for a work-life balance that is actually sustainable. It is, quite simply, an unparalleled environment to raise a family while staying plugged into a global professional network.
What are the city’s strengths?
I love that Barcelona manages to feel like a grand metropolis and a collection of intimate villages simultaneously. You have the world-class prestige of the F1 Grand Prix, the Banc Sabadell Godó, and the breathtaking legacy of Gaudí, yet the moment you walk into your own neighborhood, that 'big city' anonymity vanishes. Neighbors know your name, they say hello, and there is a genuine sense of community care that makes the city feel human-centric
What aspects of the city must be improved? How?
To maintain its competitive edge for international talent, Barcelona must address administrative and fiscal friction. Streamlining the 'bureaucratic journey' for entrepreneurs and high-value investors is essential. We need to make it as easy to start a business or relocate a family here as it is to enjoy the lifestyle. Improving digital integration for public services and offering more tax incentives for the 'digital nomad' and tech sectors would solidify our position as Europe’s premier destination.
What do you expect from Barcelona in the coming years?
I hope to see Barcelona establish itself as the undisputed capital of artificial intelligence and technology in Southern Europe. We are already witnessing a tremendous influx of innovation. I believe the city will become increasingly cosmopolitan and continue to lead the way toward a sustainable model of urban living. My hope is that it continues to attract world-class talent without losing the local 'village' soul that makes it so unique.
Which city do you consider “your city”? What do you miss the most?
I am a citizen of the world. Having been born in Los Angeles but moving every few years throughout my life, I’ve learned that 'home' isn't a fixed point in the past—it’s where you are building for the future. Because of that, I tend not to look back or 'miss' things; my focus is always on the horizon.
Right now, Barcelona is undeniably my city. I don't feel a sense of loss for other places because the future I see here is so incredibly bright. I am far more excited about the innovation and lifestyle we are currently building in the Mediterranean than I am nostalgic for anywhere else.
