Given that Barcelona is full of tourists (even in November) this location is a relief. A quiet residential neighbourhood only a 5 minute walk from the Joanic metro station (Barcelona's metro is clean, frequent, easy to navigate, and cheap). Between the main grid streets lie the charming old alleys of Gracia village which Amelia was kind enough to walk me through. Plenty of restaurants, cafes and grocery stores nearby, and an indoor swimming pool only a minute away.
Amelia, who grew up in the neighbourhood, gave perfect directions and was a sweet and generous host in her spotless, newly remodelled apartment.