Don't worry, I'm probably the most impartial Spaniard you'll ever find. I'm the less patriotic guy I know, and I can judge fairly the ups and downs of my own country. It has its Ups, sure it does, but its Downs are stronger in my opinion. I like some things of Spain but I think it mostly sucks - specially when compared to heaven-like places like some parts of Ireland, Germany or Austria.
Does really Barcelona smell that bad? I've been there thrice (or more, can't remember) and it's probably my favorite Spanish city. Cleaner than most, friendlier people, well designed, nice port and beaches, less contamination than Madrid, etc. But yeah, I agree when you say some parts of Spain really do look like 3rd world places. I guess that having so much contact with Africa and our strong multi-culturality have something to do with it.
Matt, that's a problem on your side. You don't appear on my Viewing this topic list either.