It just so happens that at this particular moment in my life I have got a whole lotta pent up anger that could do just swimmingly with some cathartic tomato pelting. So, it is perfect timing that the Tomatina (tomato throwing festival) in Bunol is about to kick off. I got my bus ticket for 70 euros roundtrip, which includes a souvenir Tomatina Tee, the bus shuttle between BCN and Bunol, trip insurance and guide, not too shabby. Of course, I am planning on stashing the Tee and keeping it in pristine condition as a souvenir, and instead will throw on a bathing suit, old white Tee and jean shorts I was about to give away for the tomato war.

A person who always makes lists and likes to arrive at a place wearing the appropriate attire and outfitted with the appropriate accessories, I will head to the sports shops tomorrow with my Tomatina mate Jane to stock up on goods for the food fight. Mainly, we are looking for slip-resistant footwear, goggles, something cute to tie up our hair (just because we are going to be in a food fight, doesn't mean we have to let our looks slide!), a waterproof camera, small over the shoulder bag and well, that seems to be all that comes to mind for now. Although, I was advised by a former Tomatina-er to lather myself in body cream (the combination of the acid from the tomatoes and my fair skin, although it has been relatively bronzed thanks to a summer spent mainly on the beach, can make for a stingy, itchy and uncomfortable situation), he also pointed out that I should bring some bread along, since here in Catalunya they are crazy about their pan con tomate (bread with tomato), the latter will be in abundance on Wednesday to sufficiently spread an entire baguette.

And how did all this crazy tomato-throwing start? There are several theories: a street fight outside a grocery store, a crowd throwing the fruit at some unpopular politicians, a practical joke gone out of control and more...

So, tomorrow it is off on a shopping trip, then to bed early, in order to catch the 4am bus from Barcelona's Hard Rock Cafe. Tickets are still available, so, don't miss out on this unique opportunity!

1...2....3.... A TIRAR!!!!!

Read more about the festival, tips and the like here.