Meet Marta Nieves Gómez: ASA Barcelona Site Director

Meet Marta Nieves Gómes, a familiar and much-loved face for ASA Barcelona alumni! Below, Marta tells us about her role at ASA, shares her favorite activity to do with students, and lets us in on the neighborhood that feels a bit like a village and a few of her favorite hidden gems not to miss if you study abroad in Barcelona. 

ASA: Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at ASA. How long have you been working in study abroad?

MARTA NIEVES GÓMEZ: I’m the European Operations Manager and Barcelona On-Site Director for ASA. I’ve been working in study abroad for over 20 years. My role is to ensure students feel supported and immersed in the local culture, from organizing housing and activities to being a point of contact for anything they might need during their time abroad.

ASA: Describe what might be a typical day in the life of a student studying abroad in Barcelona with ASA.

MNG: A typical day might begin with classes at one of our partner institutions. After class, students often explore the city—grabbing tapas with friends, visiting Gaudí landmarks, or relaxing on the beach. ASA also organizes cultural activities like cooking classes, monument visits, and more, so every day offers something new.

ASA: What are your top three reasons that students should choose Barcelona as their study abroad destination?
MNG: 

1. It offers a unique blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, modern cosmopolitan energy, and rich history.

2. The city is very student-friendly and walkable, with excellent public transportation.

3. Barcelona is a hub for art, architecture, and gastronomy, giving students a well-rounded cultural experience.

ASA: Which is your favorite activity that you do with students in Barcelona and why?
MNG: I love leading guided walking tours through the city. It’s the perfect way to introduce students to Barcelona’s deep history and hidden corners—it always sparks curiosity and helps them feel home.

ASA: Which is your favorite excursion with students outside of Barcelona and why?

MNG: My favorite excursion is to Seville. It’s such a vibrant city with a distinct Andalusian charm that contrasts beautifully with Barcelona. Students love exploring its rich Moorish and Gothic architecture, enjoying flamenco performances, and experiencing a slower, more traditional pace of life. It’s an unforgettable cultural immersion.

ASA: What are your top three tips for students to make the most of their time in Barcelona?
MNG: 

1. Step out of your comfort zone—speak Spanish (or Catalan!) as much as possible.

2. Explore neighborhoods beyond the tourist areas.

3. Get involved—join local events or volunteer to connect with the community.

ASA: What are some foods that students should try that they might not have had before?

MNG: Try pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato) and patatas bravas (spicy potatoes).

ASA: If you could spend a full free day in Barcelona on a student budget, how would you spend it?
MNG: I’d start with a coffee and pastry in a local café, walk through Parc de la Ciutadella, visit a free museum (many are free on the first Sunday of the month), have lunch at a paella restaurant near to the beach, and end the day watching the sunset from the Bunkers del Carmel.

ASA: What are your top three favorite “hidden gems” that students should visit in Barcelona?
MNG:

1. The Laberint d’Horta—a beautiful, peaceful park with a real hedge maze

2. Carrer de Petritxol – A narrow street in the Gothic Quarter filled with art galleries and old-school xocolateries (perfect for hot chocolate and churros)

3. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista – Often overshadowed by the Sagrada Família, this stunning modernist hospital complex is peaceful, beautiful, and full of history.

ASA: Which neighborhood in Barcelona is your favorite and why?

MNG: Gràcia is my favorite. It feels like a village within the city—full of charm, creativity, and local life. It’s also less touristy, so students get a more authentic feel for how locals live.

Thanks Marta!