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Collector Librería. Pau Claris 168 Metro: Diagonal (L3 & L5) www.collector-libreria.com
In order not to get bored at the beach, it's always best to bring something to read. Instead of risking your e-book reader in the sand or lugging a 600-page bestseller with you, though, why not treat yourself to a magazine at this specialised newsagents and bookshop? If flicking through a glossy is your kind of thing, you'll find practically any type and in many different languages at Collector. Pick your interest, whether it's women's or men's fashion, geography and travel, sports or celebrities, and find editions from all over Europe and the world (anyone interested in the current winter fashions in Australia?)
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Espartería Lluch. Gran Vía 339 Metro: Espanya (L1 & L3)
The straw bag is undoubtedly the must-have of the summer season, but who wants to be seen with the same high-street version as everyone else? This charming shop in Sants specialises in straw goods and has a vast array of beautiful bags in various sizes and designs on offer. With prices beginning at 5.50 euros, you can be sure to pick up a bargain. They also stock a large selection of men and women's straw hats that are perfect for ensuring you keep your cool in the heat of the summer.
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Farmacia Clapés. La Rambla 98 Metro: Liceu (L3) www.farmaciaclapes.com
You've heard it over and over again: don't be caught in the sun without sunscreen. The reason everyone keeps repeating it is because it's true. Even those who live in a sunny city like Barcelona have not grown resistant to the danger of the sun's rays. At this open-all-hours chemist's, conveniently located right in the centre of town, you can get sunscreen for your day at the beach, at literally any time. Not only are they open 24 hours, but they also have an online store, through which you can order your suncream and have it delivered the next day.
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Sombrerería Obach. Call 2 Metro: Liceu (L3)
When in the sun all day, it's important to protect your head, so why not do it in style? Sombrerería Obach is a small, classic hat store in Barri Gòtic where you can find Italian-made hats that never go out of fashion. Open since the Twenties, the styles here are plentiful: panamas, fedoras and traditional floppy sunhats, with prices that range from 12 to several hundred euros. With headwear from Orbach, you'll look great and enjoy your day sunbathing knowing you're protected and more original than all the rest who bought theirs from one of the beach vendors.
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Wilde Vintage. Joaquím Costa 2 Metro: Sant Antoni (L2) www.wildestore.com
If you want to stand out on the beach this summer, then a trip to this treasure trove is a must. Wilde hosts an impressive selection of vintage designer sunglasses from the Fifties up to the Nineties, each individually chosen from markets and collections worldwide. Wilde has also designed its own eponymous range and at the recent opening of their Formentera shop, the straight-framed Oscar model was firm favourite amongst celebrity guests including Barça captain Puyol and tennis champ Rafael Nadal.