Barcelona Welcomes Ryanair: and it’s great offer!
by Katie Brown on Sep.01, 2010, under Extra Barcelona, General Information, News, Practical Information, Public Transport, Visit Barcelona
As of today (September 1st 2010) Ryanair opens its base at our very own Barcelona El Prat airport. Announced May this year the anticipated opening has been well awaited by jetsetters, tourists and local Catalans.
Around 400 weekly low cost flights have been scheduled. There are now eight Ryanair planes based at Barcelona El Prat flying 230 new routes.
The original proposal was to travel to a total of twenty new destinations.
20 new routes Barcelona El Prat 2010
|
Destination |
Frequencies x weeks |
Destination |
Frequencies x weeks |
| Brussels (Charleroi ) |
7 |
Oslo ( Rygge ) |
3 |
| Cagliari |
3 |
Palm |
14 |
| Dublin |
7 |
Paris ( Beauvais) |
7 |
| Dusseldorf ( Weeze ) |
4 |
Rome ( Ciampino) |
7 |
| Edinburgh |
3 |
Santander |
7 |
| Gran Canaria |
2 |
Santiago |
11 |
| Ibiza |
7 |
Seville |
14 |
| Lanzarote |
3 |
Tenerife |
2 |
| Malaga |
14 |
Valencia |
7 |
| Milan (Bergamo ) |
7 |
Venice ( Treviso) |
6 |
Additional routes have since been added to the flight plan. This is great news for us in Barcelona!
Stand by for Ryanairs generous promotions! Tomorrow (sept 2nd) there’s an opportunity to get your hand on €6 tickets, 500,000 seats for Tuesday to Thursday travel in October are up for grabs. Go to Ryanair.com and find yourself a vacation bargain and welcome Ryanair to Barcelona.
Pat Andrea and Alice: Exhibition
by Katie Brown on Aug.31, 2010, under Culture One-Offs, Enjoying Barcelona, Events, Museums, Sightseeing, Visit Barcelona
Already showcased in Greece France and Pat Andrea’s homelands, the Netherlands the success of this imaginative exposition has thankfully brought the exhibition to the heart of Catalonia. Inspired by the works of Lewis Carroll a total of 48 pieces make up the show, half of the exhibition has been based upon Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and the other half a tribute to Through the Looking-Glass.
When you embark on this magical excursion you’ll find yourself searching for your hidden child within. Transported back to a childhood favorite I found myself running around like a giddy seven year old amongst the mind boggling art work and thought provoking pieces. My mind was truly captured the moment I walked through the door! A large portrait spanned across the entrance and as I followed the twisting and stretching neck of Alice up the stair case I knew I had been won over by this fabulous artist.
Dutch artist Pat Andrea is considered to be one of the most important figurative artists of modern times. Capturing fear and obscurity through her portfolio of illustrations the sexual connotations brought to this exhibition have captured the attention of its visitors. Created by Juan Bufill, the exhibition it the first major institutional show to be brought to Barcelona by this prestigious artist and will hopefully pave the way for many more of its kind.
The exhibition is open weekly from Tuesday through to Sunday from 11am to 9pm. unfortunately it will come to an finally at the end of this month on the 26th of September after a successful run since late June. Held at Arts S. Mònica, Las Ramblas this exhibition space is a great place to see the cities best free exhibitions. Get off at Metro L3 Drassanes and come and have a look at this magical wonderland of art.
ART <30
by Katie Brown on Aug.30, 2010, under Culture One-Offs, Enjoying Barcelona, Events, Museums, Sightseeing, Visit Barcelona
There’s nothing like a free exhibition. Bored and in need of a cultural pick me up? This week sees the comeback of ART <30, an exhibition about to set in motion its third cycle. This is a chance to see some of Spain’s most anticipated up and coming artists as they’re given the opportunity to display their latest pieces at La Sala Parés, Spain oldest exhibition space.
If you an art lover like me, a tourist, or a student searching for inspiration this is a opportunity to see some great local Spanish art as the exhibition profiles new young talent. Begining on the 3rd of September the launch of this years ART <30 promises to be a spectacular event. I’ve been told great things about last years show so i’m pleased to be in Barcelona this month to see the finalists entries at this years exhibition.
What is it?
ART <30 is a competition sponsored by Banco de Sabadell (the Spanish bank), its aim is to preview the works of artists under the age of thirty. In its second year 73 students from all over Spain participated in the competition. This year saw a whopping 200 young artist take part, you can expect to see a variety of skill as this entries include pieces from painters to photographers.
Help promote creative art for the under thirties by coming along this weekend. The selection process has narrowed the entries down to ten finalists who will now have their work displayed to Barcelona in one of the cities finest galleries. The exhibition has been organized by the faculty of fine arts based at Barcelona University. This academic team will reward the winners with an opportunity to collaborate with prestigious companies. The finalists will also receive a grant of 500 Euro’s and sell work throughout the exhibition.
Unfortunately I don’t have the funds to buy, but I will defiantly be taking a look. You’ve got about three weeks to see what’s on offer as the exhibition comes to an end on September 25th. If your in Barcelona this month then pop in a see what happening in the world of art…
MACBA: Wednesday Nights Cinema Night.
by Katie Brown on Aug.27, 2010, under Culture One-Offs, Enjoying Barcelona, Events, Museums, Sightseeing, Visit Barcelona, Weird and Wonderful
If you don’t fancy going to another chick flick or watching action men running around blowing each other up then visit the MACBA at night and spend the night watching one of the varied indie feature film. This is one of my favorite things to do in Barcelona and the best thing about it is that it’s completely free. Some of the greatest evenings I’ve experience in this city have been spent with friends just watching a good old movie!
Each year the feature film changes mixing up a variety of international classics, underground gems and art house productions.
So there’s a trick to arranging the perfect evening! If you want a great (or even good) seat then it’s very important to get thee early. A few times I’ve been left parching on the wooden stools at the back of the venue, which is not so bad as you still get to soak up the atmosphere and hang out with friends. But… ideally make time and arrive before the rush, there’s a limited number of comfy chairs at the front so if you want to sit back and relax in style grab a couple of beers or a carton of vino tinto and begin your night as you mean to go on.
MACBA brings in a great crowd, see Barcelona’s creative’s and tourists pile in and fill the seats ready to watch their favorite feature films or prepare for something new and inspiring. This week come to Ravel and watch a great movie in great company.
Barcelona’s Skate Scene.
by Katie Brown on Aug.26, 2010, under Enjoying Barcelona, Events, Shopping, Sports Fan, Visit Barcelona, Weird and Wonderful
Now, I don’t claim to be a skateboarding expert but I felt the need to write a quick blog about Barcelona’s skating scene. This is because its everywhere, you’ll find skating through sport fashion, music as the ‘cool kids’ of Barcelona take to the streets with their battered boards and compare trick tips.
This urban sport has become a huge part of the cities street culture. Fitting in perfectly with Barcelona’s causal style the kick flipping alternative gang bring an important sense of style to this international metropolis.
Where to skate.
See the art kids gather in MACBA’s square, known as Barcelona’s skating centre. If you’re in need of smooth edges, jumps and a social buzz then this is the place to hang out.
Find Barcelona’s socialites gather between the stylish concerts hall at the Forum. Skating at the forum means space, slopes and sea views.
Join the skating clang at El Raval, this is one of Barcelona’s coolest neighborhoods. Mingle with the bohemian kids before checking out the quirky bars.
Skate shops.
Here’s a short list of some of Barcelona best skating pick me ups…
Check out ertshop. I absolutely love their website. You can find them on Passatge de Senillosa as well as buying online.
The Free skating boarding store is located just off Plaça Catalunya and close to Macba the cities skating hub. A friendly store flourishing with skating good and friendly vibes.
At the heart of skating culture you’ll find Ikara. Designers, musicians and photographers have collaborated during its sixteen years of existence creating an important brand image and meeting point for youth culture in Barcelona. Check out the Ikara art gallery when you’re next in the center. If you want to see a mix of styles and the cities underground art scene then forget Picasso and Urgell street No. 82.
Skating in Barcelona is off the hook and for me adds character to the streets and place a huge part in setting the urban scene.
Sants Festival: August 2010
by Katie Brown on Aug.25, 2010, under Concerts, Culture One-Offs, Enjoying Barcelona, Events, Family, Festivals, Nightlife, Visit Barcelona, Weird and Wonderful
So Barcelona fans the Gracia festivities have come to an explosive end! But as we all know the streets of Barcelona are far from quieting down… As the summer parties leave the residents of Gracia to a quiet night’s sleep the thriving crowd can soak up the atmosphere at this week’s annual Sants festival.
So we’re already halfway through the week, I hope you’re having fun? Last night I watched Las Estrellas de Gràcia and danced the rumba into the early hours of this morning. I thought I’d give you guys the heads up on what’s going on in the next couple of days.
Parc de l’Espanya Industrial is where it’s at this year.
Today (Wednesday 25th), children can enjoy games, music and animations at les Corts. With gifts up for grabs and entertainment throughout the day your little devils will be bight eyed and bushy tailed as they’re let loose on the streets on Barcelona. Join in with the parade at 19.30, this is a great day for kids so make sure you take the little ones.
Saturday 28th, watch the parade of the devils…
Sunday 29th, at 12.00 head to l’Espanya Industrial and watch the locals set up and prepare for this evenings proceeding. (Espectaculo Piromusical) A musical performance accompanied the crackles and bangs of a fireworks display will begin at 21.00. Finish the weekend on a high, the Monday blues don’t exist in this city!
You can see me indulging at the food stalls and dancing with the locals. I love Barcelona during the summer! Make sure you make the most of the street festivals it’s a great way to go out on the cheep and party Catalan style. Click HERE to check out the official website and see where the night takes you…
Street Style Barcelona. F-f-f-f-f-fashion!
by Katie Brown on Aug.24, 2010, under Extra Barcelona, General Information, News, Practical Information, Visit Barcelona, Weird and Wonderful
Introducing Penelope:
Fashion Icon
Barcelona Socialite
Vintage Queen
Girlfriend to Ulises.
Barcelona is a cosmopolitan city that thrives on street style, culture, art and fashion! I love shopping in Barcelona there’s a fantastic mix of vintage hangouts and stylish one offs. In the past we’ve blogged about the thrift store routes the market marvels and the prestigious fashion events, today I’m going to introduce you to the world of Barcelona’s online street style fashion. In need of a little inspiration or an idea for an outfit? These three blog spots will conjure up your creative streak and are sure to give you that needed fashion fix.
This lifestyle trend blog will provide you with everything you need if you’re feeling down in the fashion dumps. If I want to find out the hottest style gossip or the latest designer press coverage then this is the first place I come. You can write in and express you own views, search for the newest looks and click on links to great online magazines and trend forums.
http://facehunter.blogspot.com/
Going by the motto ‘Eye candy for the style hungry’, the face hunter can be seen exploring Europe for the latest in fashion news and style innovation. If you’re snapped by this fashion leader then you know you’ve made it big time style wise. One of my personal favorites! I wake up and log in to get inspired… Look out for him on Barcelona’s streets.
http://www.stopstealingmylook.com/
is a website celebrating fashions heritage and style highlights. This blog gives me a great feeling, the posts are fun, informative and the information conversational approach to writing always provides me with a giggle during a tea break!
What’s your inspiration? Blogs? Magazines? Whatever you tipple share your views on my Facebook page.
Fined in Barcelona!
by Katie Brown on Aug.23, 2010, under Enjoying Barcelona, Extra Barcelona, General Information, Learn the Lingo, News, Practical Information, Visit Barcelona
You may have noticed the government’s new advertizing campaign? Put in place late July, the city of Barcelona has been WARNED to follow the rules and respect public places.
So the other day I was walking home from Gracia and saw a jolly man full of beer and bursting for a wee! After releasing himself for a comfortable walk home he unfortunately got embarrassingly stopped, fined, and sent on his way. It’s time to study the cities dos and don’ts! Here’s a little guidance to the rules and regulations which could save you from a ruined night out. Whether you’re a local or a tourist its time to brush up on Barcelona’s ordinance…
So here’s what I found out to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen to you… The fines have been split into two categories. Discriminatory behavior in public space, which can see you charged between 750.01 to 1500 Euro’s and discriminatory behavior directed at older people, which has a penalty of between 1500.01 and 3000 €.
Basically how bad you are depends on how much you get fined. So try and behave yourself or you could end up like the booze I saw hound last weekend!
Mild to 750 €
Serious € 750.01-1500
Very serious 1500.1 to 3000 €
This is what I found out from the governments webpage.
Sports matches and unauthorized public events €750.
Individuals can be fines up to €1500 if they are thought to be in risk of damaging the landscape or architecture.
€300 for spitting, urinating in a public place.
Harassment of other citizens up to €120
Having sex in public places range from €1500.01 to €3,000
Washing! Either you or your clothes could cost you greatly. Using soap, shower gel, shampoo
or any other cosmetics in publish showers will result in a fine of €500.
Look out for the flags. If you don’t follow the flag warnings at the beach then swimmers and be charged a whopping €1500.
If you think this is all a load of rubbish the come and protest with me at the BAM music festival tonight. You can find the link on my Facebook page. Check out the official rules and regulations HERE to make sure you don’t get caught out this summer!
A quick guide to ordering tapas when you visit Barcelona…
by Katie Brown on Aug.20, 2010, under Cafès, Eating Out, Enjoying Barcelona, Extra Barcelona, Food, marvelous Food, General Information, Practical Information, Restaurants, Visit Barcelona
Fish
Carpaccio de bacalao – Raw cod with onions and peppers
Boquerones – White anchovies served in vinegar
Calamares – Fried squid rings
Caracoles – Snails in a delicious sauce
Cazón – Dogfish, usually fried
Gambas – Prawns, lightly fried in garlic and olive oil
Paella – Is paella (Brits ask for pa-eh-ya!!!)
Pulpo a la Gallega – octopus done in the traditional galician
Pescaito Frito – fried small fish
Meats
Chorizo – Spicy sausage
Jamón Serrano/Iberico – cured ham
Lomo – Pork loin
Morcilla – black pudding sausage
Salchichón – Sausage or salami
Vegetarian
Berenjenas – Eggplant/Aubergine
Gazpacho – yummy and refreshing cold tomato soup
Pan con tomate – Bread topped with tomato, oil and garlic. Typically Catalan, eaten on its own or with cold meats and cheeses
Patatas Bravas – Fried potato cubes with a spicy sauce
Tortilla – omelette, cutinto cubes filled with potato, onion and aubergine
Que aproveche (Ke a-pro-ve-che)
Learning Spanish in Barcelona.
by Katie Brown on Aug.19, 2010, under Extra Barcelona, General Information, Learn the Lingo, Practical Information, Work and Study
Picking up the lingo can often be difficult when you move to a new country, so here are a few tips to help you settle in. Before you know it you’ll be one of the locals!
Courses in Barcelona vary to fit around your work and social life. The flowing list will clear up any confusion and help you decide which is best for you.
There are many online services offering free tutorials with audio features, you can learn Spanish from the comfort of your own apartment. If you’re after something a little more substantial then the International House offers a variety of courses designed to meet your needs.
Intensive courses can often be the most beneficial, throw yourself in at the deep end and hold on tight as you give up your week nights for two and a half weeks. Costing only forty Euros this is an investment in the right direction!
If your here to stay then why not try long term studying, this relaxed approach to lessons allows you all the time in the world to settle down and learn leisurely…
Fit your lessons around your work life or studying with an Evening course.
One on one, privet lessons are good if want that personal touch, various schools offer rates to suit your wants and needs. Language exchange is also a great option if you’re on a budget, you can often find people advertising a one on one service. A useful website is Loquo. Who knows you could make a friend for life!
Learning conversational Spanish is a great place to start. Sessions often take place in groups. This starting point will assurance you pick up the lingo! In no time you’ll be fluent and chatting away with the locals…
Why not choose a course Tailor made to your career? If you’re staring a business or beginning your career in Barcelona then it’s important you pick up some useful terminology.
At the international house you can sign up for an intensive evening course, from Monday to Thursday, 19.00 to 20.30. Fit your learning around your work, studying and social life. Check out the website and let your tongue start wagging!