It’s an honour for me to open the doors of my home to show you a little gem of the Spanish Mediterranean; the city of Tarragona. It’s not as well known as Barcelona, but just as vibrant, bustling and steeped in fascinating history. The first thing that strikes you about this area is the light; that’s why they call it the Costa Daurada (Golden Coast in Catalan). It is soft and bright but not blinding. The light bathes your skin and surroundings in a golden colour, adding a layer of mellow beauty to everything it touches.

I was born here in 1978 and, after years away in other parts of Spain, other countries and even other continents, I have returned with my children to my hometown. My Mum, Paquita, has moved back too; to Altafulla, a small coastal village just 10kms away.

The most emotional thing I remember from my childhood here is the beach: sandcastles, boat trips, swimming at any time of the year... But, despite the great importance of the sea in our lives, Tarragona has never turned its back on the mountains. My grandparents always lived off the land, cultivating olives and almonds. So I love to go on trips to see fields, groves, hills and rocks.

Tarragona has changed a lot, especially the coastal area, where the port has been expanded to welcome tourist cruise ships. I remember watching the small fishing boats arriving with their catch.

The city’s history is told to everyone through its monuments and I’m excited to show you some of them. The regional authorities have made great efforts to preserve the Roman circus and necropolis as well as the medieval part of the city. It seems as if the history of Tarragona refuses to be forgotten. I’m proud to pass on to my children my own knowledge of people, places and stories from Tarragona.