As a Barcelona local, what are the absolute highlights and hidden gems that you believe visitors must see and experience in the city?


Barcelona is replete with extraordinary and imposing structures that are a must-visit on any city tour. One of my personal highlights is the Hospital de la Santa Creu. Originally conceived as a modern health center for the needy, it was constructed between 1902 and 1939. This architectural gem was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997 and presently functions as a health and research center.

If your preferences lean more towards music, I highly recommend a visit to the Palau de la Música Catalana. This world-famous concert hall in Barcelona was designed by the same architect as the Hospital de la Santa Creu, namely Lluís Domènech i Montaner. The Palau is still used for concerts and performances and is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Would you like to admire the works of this renowned architect while indulging in culinary delights? Then, you must visit the Fonda España restaurant. Designed and decorated by Domènech i Montaner, this restaurant beautifully merges tradition with contemporary flair. Chef Germán Espinosa, a disciple of the famous chef Martín Berasategui, prepares the finest delicacies for your enjoyment.

For nature enthusiasts, I recommend Carretera de las Aguas. Literally translated as “Water Road,” it derives its name from the parallel water pipes that transport drinking water into the city. Carretera de las Aguas is a flat, wide path and a popular route for hiking and cycling. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Barcelona, the Mediterranean, and the surrounding landscape.

Barcelona is renowned for its unique architecture, including the works of Antoni Gaudi.

In your opinion, which building or structure has the most significant cultural and historical impact on the city?

For me, the Sagrada Familia is a fascinating symbol of cultural grandeur and inspiration, undeniably popular among tourists. This world-famous church, a masterpiece by visionary architect Antoni Gaudí, has graced Barcelona’s skyline for over 140 years.

Construction began back in 1882 and continues to this day. 44 years after the commencement of this impressive structure, Gaudí died in a tragic accident involving a tram. Incidentally, he was taken to the Hospital de la Santa Creu, where he succumbed to his injuries. Thus, he never saw the completion of his magnum opus. However, the Sagrada Familia is expected to be finally completed in 2026, on the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death. This architectural marvel continues to attract people from all over the world, a testament to Gaudí’s brilliant legacy and unwavering dedication to beauty and creativity.

Barcelona offers a rich culinary diversity. What Catalan dishes or culinary experiences do you recommend to visitors to fully enjoy the local gastronomy? Which restaurants) would you highly recommend?

While in Barcelona, I strongly recommend trying esqueixada de bacalao, a traditional Catalan salad made from shredded cod, tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and olives.

If you prefer a vegetarian option, let yourself be enchanted by escalivada. Often served cold, it consists of various vegetables grilled or roasted, giving the dish its memorable smoky flavor.

My top three favorite restaurants? Botafumeiro, Via Veneto, and Abac!

Are there any special events, festivals, or local traditions that, as a Barcelona local, you would recommend tourists to experience during their visit to the city?

If you’re in the city in autumn, I highly recommend participating in the La Mercè Festival on September 24th. This day celebrates Barcelona’s patron saint, whose veneration dates back to the 13th century. On this day, you can admire the Castellers, the human tower builders, join the Correfoc with fire-breathing dragons and devils, or accompany the parade of the Giants. The highlight of the festivity occurs after dusk, culminating in a firework that marks the end of the celebration.

However, my most favored festivity takes place in spring. On April 23rd, the city celebrates Saint George. It’s a celebration of culture, literature, and love. The streets are bustling with people celebrating creativity and relationships with their loved ones, creating a unique atmosphere. It’s tradition on this day for men to give roses to their partners and women, in turn, give books to their loved ones. The streets are filled with book and flower vendors, and authors hold readings and book signings. It’s truly a unique experience!

What do you value the most about working with EMA Global?

I highly value the commitment of our partners, who bring many years of experience and a vast range of knowledge. We have an excellent relationship amongst ourselves, and our organization unites diverse cultural backgrounds in a strong and harmonious unit. We learn a lot from each other and can support one another.

After all this years as president of EMA Global, what was your most memorable experience working with EMA Global?

The regular meetings we convene prove to be extremely enriching. There, we not only share our work methods, goals, and expertise but also foster a long-standing relationship within the EMA Global network. Our connection goes beyond a purely business relationship and is characterized by depth and sustainability.

As a London local, what are the absolute highlights and hidden gems that you believe visitors must see and experience in the city?


I’m not from London originally, but having lived and worked there for many years I feel like an adopted citizen of the UK capital.

My highlights, especially for visitors:

1. Borough Market: an eclectic mix of stalls, restaurants, bars, and shops near London Bridge; wonderful all year round
2. The Tower of London: arguably the most historic building in London
3. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: they’re iconic for a reason and you might bump into a Prime Minister or two

Narrowing down the hidden gems is harder as London is full of twists and turns that would take weeks to explore. Personal favourites though:

1. Postman’s Park: a public park that many of the public don’t know about!
2. Leake Street Arches: street art, food, events, and more in a space that feels like a well-kept secret
3. Little Venice: Charming canals and waterside cafes make for a real change of pace

London is renowned for its unique architecture. In your opinion, which building or structure has the most significant cultural and historical impact on the city and why?


This could easily be a long list, from St Paul’s Cathedral, to the Gherkin, to the Lloyds Building. The British Museum stands out though, for its cultural and historical impact. Its vast collection showcases global history and culture, making it a symbol of London’s multicultural ethos and historical depth.

What English dishes or culinary experiences do you recommend to visitors to fully enjoy the local gastronomy? Which restaurants would you highly recommend?

It would be easy to say fish and chips, or a roast dinner on a Sunday. But London is the most diverse and cosmopolitan city in the UK.

To get the best mix possible therefore I’d recommend:

1. Dishoom for an Indian twist on breakfast
2. Cockney’s Pie & Mash Shop for a very local experience at lunch
3. Hunan for your evening meal and some of the best Chinese food outside of mainland China

How has London evolved in recent years, and what changes have you observed regarding tourism, culture, and the city’s lifestyle?

In recent years, London has become ever more cosmopolitan, while retaining its historical charm. The city has seen a rise in sustainable practices and a shift towards more pedestrian-friendly spaces making it better than ever for visitors. Experiences and events cater for young and old, families and singles. Public transport is exceptional, but it’s also a city you can spend many hours walking around in a leisurely fashion.

Are there any special events, festivals, or local traditions that, as a London local, you would recommend tourists to experience during their visit to the city?

There’s nearly always something memorable going on, so depending on when you’re visiting and of the below are worth your time:

1. The Notting Hill Carnival: A vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture
2. The Lord Mayor’s Show: A historic procession that dates back centuries and is truly unique
3. Trooping the Colour: No visit to London is complete without embracing the tradition and pageantry of the monarchy and Buckingham Palace

What must one definitely visit during the Christmas season in London? And why?

If you’re lucky enough to visit at Christmas then you have to find your way to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park; a festive extravaganza with rides, markets, and seasonal activities.

What do you value the most about working with EMA Global?

The collaboration and cooperation is a hugely satisfying part of working with EMA Global. Coming together in person regularly allows us to compare our situations and explore best practice. What’s most interesting is that quite often the challenges that we are individually facing are the same country-to-country and region-to-region. There is far more in common globally than I think people would expect, and so we can truly work together to solve problems and enhance our service to clients.

After all this years of collaboration with EMA Global, what was your most memorable experience working with EMA Global?

My most memorable experience with EMA Global came at my first ever global conference, in New York. I walked into the bar that we were meeting in the night before the conference, having not met anyone from the group in person before, and was immediately surrounded by friendly faces all wanting to introduce themselves and find out more about me. Within an hour we knew all about each others lives and work, within a couple more we were dancing the tango in the bar area!

What brings you the greatest joy in your job, Philippe?

My goal is to bring together people who not only fit well professionally but also personally. I firmly believe that a harmonious work atmosphere and a strong sense of teamwork are crucial contributors to a company’s success. It’s not just about finding the right qualifications and skills but also about meeting the individual needs and desires of the candidates. I take pride in helping people achieve their career goals, and thereby significantly contributing to the company’s success.

Your experience in Executive Search is quite profound. How would you describe your three core competencies? What sets you apart?

1. A keen sense, honed by years of experience, for connecting compatible people
2. A deep understanding of the needs and requirements of the clients
3. Personal commitment

In your opinion, what does it take for candidates today to successfully navigate the process and convince their future employer?

At times, I wish that candidates would try to better put themselves in the employer’s shoes and not only consider the situation from their own perspective, such as “what’s right for me.” The demand for providing an attractive, meaningful, and sustainable work environment has significantly increased in recent years. It requires more mutual understanding as the basis for sustainable shared success. If both sides can openly and evenly exchange thoughts during the introduction process, the recruitment process is likely to be successful for both parties.

In times of skilled labor shortages, what do you believe is needed more than ever to attract top candidates for a vacancy?

The vacancy should offer the candidate an opportunity for further development and an attractive, next step. This doesn’t always have to be in the form of a higher salary or a higher hierarchical position; often, a new role or a change of industry is equally appealing. Company culture plays a very important role in this regard. Candidates must feel comfortable in the new environment. This aspect is increasingly valued.
Many candidates quickly sense whether this will be the case or not within the first few conversations. The more openly and straightforwardly a company presents itself in this regard, the higher the chances of top candidates sustainably showing interest in the vacancy.