Barcelona Metropolitan Issue 224 by Barcelona Metropolitan

SEPTEMBER 2015 Nº 224

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STREET SMART

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THE CITY OF THE FUTURE

MEALS ON WHEELS THE STREET FOOD REVOLUTION

SOMETHING FISHY CATCH A BIG ONE IN THE DELTA DE L’EBRE

ACCESSIBLE ART 9 PUBLIC SCULPTURES IN BARCELONA

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MUSIC

FASHION

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

A PLACE OF MY OWN

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contents

METROPOLITAN contributors

{ISSUE 224} SEPTEMBER 2015

Alex Mackintosh Having graduated from the University of Exeter this year, Alex is following her dream of combining writing with travel. Originally from the Lake District in England, she has worked in Thailand, Belgium and Hungary and is now taking the opportunity to experience life in Barcelona whilst working at Metropolitan. She hopes to see more of Spain during her time here, before deciding where to head to next. Follow her adventures on Instagram @ ablondex.

FeatuRes 12 RePoRt: get sMaRt! Like all aspects of life, technology is transforming how we live in the city. 18 aRt touR Clare Sheppard guides us around Barcelona’s intriguing public sculptures. 29 last Man stanDing The story behind the human pyramids. 30 on the Wagon! The street food trend embracing Barcelona. 34 WheRe the RiVeR FloWs The beautiful lowlands of the Delta de l’Ebre and where to make a good catch.

RegulaRs 06 08 10 33 34 36 49 50

New in Town In the City A Place of My Own Fashion Travel Food & Drink Coaching Column Interview

Clare Sheppard graduated from University College Dublin with a degree in English and Italian and a Master’s degree in European Studies. Having lived in Italy, she moved to Barcelona in 2009 where she feels lucky to be able to dedicate much of her time to wordy pursuits: writing, translating, proofreading and teaching. She has previously contributed to Art Slant.

What’s on 20 22 24 26

Music Art Misc. Pullout Calendar

DiRectoRies 41 43 44 49

Food & Drink Health & Beauty Business Jobs

Publisher Creative Media Group, S.L. Managing Director Andrea Moreno Consulting Editor Esther Jones Editor Carol Moran Art Director Aisling Quigley Account Executives Jalil Alui, Richard Cardwell, Nicolás Zdravko Reyes Editorial Assistants Rachel Huffman, Laura Bonicelli, Kathryn Todd, Alex Mackintosh Design Assistant Kirsty Moore Contributors Suzie Docherty, Miquel Hudin, Esther Jones, Melissa Leighty, Sam Mednick, Toni Rocamora, Clare Sheppard, Tori Sparks Photographers Yan Pekar, Erika Savander Illustrator Ben Rowdon Editorial: editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Advertising: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com General: info@barcelona-metropolitan.com Carrer de la Ciutat 7 2ª-4ª, 08002 Barcelona. Tel. 93 451 4486 www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

Suzie Docherty Originally from Glasgow, Scotland, Suzie arrived in Barcelona three years ago, having spent the previous 12 months swanning around Southeast Asia, researching and creating city guides about some of her favourite destinations. Now permanently based in the city and working as an editor and freelance writer, she can’t imagine living anywhere other than Barcelona, an evereclectic place that captivates creativity and indulges her love of music, film and most importantly, food.

The views expressed in Barcelona Metropolitan are not necessarily those of the publisher. Reproduction, or use, of advertising or editorial content herein, without express permission, is prohibited. Depósito legal: B35159-96

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IN THE CITY

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

new

MALPASO. GIRONA 59. WWW.MALPASORESTAURANTE.COM Take a publishing house, add great food and drink, and what do you get? The answer is Malpaso, an extension of the editorial company of the same name. With a focus on fresh, quality produce, this restaurant has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, celebrating authentic flavours and serving everything from breakfast to supper. Unpretentious and accessible, Malpaso is tailored towards the customer, creating a space in which to feel at home. Downstairs, a bar looking out over the street offers an extensive list of cocktails—don’t miss happy hour, from 5pm to 8pm daily. Upstairs, a lounge area, complete with sofas and leafy plants, leads into a colourful dining room where you can sample the menu of Mexican favourites, which includes fajitas, tacos and tequila flambéed mussels. Nods to Malpaso’s literary heritage can be seen throughout: a stretch of wall displays artwork referencing a particular book, changing every few months, whilst works from the editorial house line the walls. Food and literature may seem like an unusual combination at first, but Malpaso have created a space in which to enjoy both.

IN TOWN NORDIC FARE

BRITTA’S NORDIC DELI. BONAVISTA 29. WWW.BRITTAS.ES With a focus on purity, simplicity and freshness, Nordic cuisine is one to rival the health conscious Mediterranean diet. With this in mind, Britta Vangsted from Denmark wanted to bring a taste of her native country to Barcelona, her home of 15 years, and so Britta’s Nordic Deli was born. The space, which opened in June, has a deli counter offering cheeses, meat and fish—all wild and organic—as well as freshly-made sandwiches to order. The changing daily specials include homemade salmon rillette with chives and fresh currants, or fine smoked beef and organic cheese with pepper and garlic, topped with lingonberry and fresh currants. The wild salmon is something that Britta says a lot of customers come back for. “This kind of smoked fish is not so common here. It’s something you can’t get anywhere else.” Likewise, the team make their own gluten-free Viking bread, which, although made of only seeds and egg, tastes remarkably like the real deal and is proving to be one of their most popular products. Aside from the food, the space itself is a sight to behold—sleek and modern with high walls lined with a selection of sundry products ranging from liquorice to jarred pickled herring and Danish beers.

CREATIVE SPACES

FELISA COWORK. ROSSELLÓ 295. WWW.FELISACOWORK.COM Working from home may seem ideal. You can wake up late, wear your comfiest clothes, eat whenever you please and work at your own pace. However, although convenient, it isn’t always the most productive working environment. This is where coworking comes in. Created by Angela Porcel, Felisa Cowork is a new coworking space which offers home comforts in light and airy surroundings with a professional atmosphere. Porcel explained the three elements of her concept: first and foremost is wellbeing—workers have fresh fruit on hand, weekly nutritious breakfasts and even fortnightly massages. The second element is resources, meaning the space has everything you need to work efficiently and effectively, including technology and meeting spaces. Last, but not least, is development—both personal and professional. Angela has a passion for growth, personal development and human connections and Felisa Cowork provides personal coaching, consulting and business development services.

THINGS TO DO

IN SEPTEMBER

LA DIADA

Catalunya celebrates the Diada on September 11th. Join in with a tour of the Generalitat building on Plaça Sant Jaume, which will be open to the public for the occasion. Just turn up and join the queue.

BACK TO SCHOOL Put that September energy to good use and sign up for a course at your local civic centre. All centres offer reasonably-priced courses in just about everything you can imagine, from African drumming to video production. See centrescivics.bcn.cat for details.

DANCING FOUNTAINS Have you checked out the dancing fountains at Plaça Catalunya yet? From Thursday to Sunday, from 9pm till midnight, the newly renovated Fonts Bessones puts on a dance and light show at 30-minute intervals.

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URBAN RETREAT

THE GARAGE BY VERONICA BLUME. MAGALHAES 2. WWW.THEGARAGEBLUME.COM Tucked away on a quiet street in Poble Sec lies The Garage by Veronica Blume. After some serious renovation work, this former 1940s garage is now an oasis of calm—all white-washed walls, exposed brick and leafy green plants. Opened by German model Veronica Blume as the result of a long-term dream, yoga and pilates take centre stage here. Group sessions run alongside one-on-one training and workshops, with ashtanga and vinyasa yoga both on offer as part of a daily schedule of classes from international teachers. However, the space is dedicated to creativity and wellbeing, and to that end it also features exhibitions and events, as well as being available to hire—the aim is to see it used for everything from literature to art. The interior is light, bright and airy, giving what Veronica describes as an ‘urban retreat’ feeling. “It’s a space to share and fall in love,” she said. “A place to disconnect, and connect with yourself. It’s in the city, but it’s a very peaceful place.” Her advice? Start with one class a week, and see where it leads you.

GO THE DISTANCE With three big 10kms this month, there will be plenty of motivation to get your running shoes on. If you really want to aim high, you have six months to train for the Barcelona 2016 marathon. Try Meetup group ‘Casual Road Runners’ for some company and moral support.

COUNTRY GARDEN Presided over by the royal Palauet Albéniz, the Jardins Joan Maragall on Montjuïc are among the quietest and most beautiful gardens in the city, with lush greenery, sculptures and ornamental fountains. They are free and open from 10am till 3pm at weekends and holidays.

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IN THE CITY

streetlife BLAI SITTING AT THE FOOT OF MONTJUÏC, THE QUIET NEIGHBOURHOOD STREETS OF POBLE SEC ARE TRAVERSED BY THE CITY’S FAVOURITE RUTA DE TAPAS, CARRER DE BLAI.

PUNJABI BAR.

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Blai 25-27. “There are better places to eat on this street, but this is the best place to drink,” said Alberto, 28, from the neighbourhood. He isn’t lying. This bar has a good, affordable wine selection, and the ever popular G&T is only €4.50.

METROPOLITAN PEOPLE CESAR

24, LAW STUDENT

Garden State with Zach Braff—not because I associate myself much with the character, but more with the feeling that he has at certain points in the film.

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KOSKA TAVERNA. Blai 8. www.koskataverna.com Hailing from the Basque Country and Argentina, owners Ekaitz and Eduardo opened this restaurant four years ago. The duo strive to recreate true tavern life and make Koska a meeting place for friends, where gastronomy takes centre stage and every bite has a well-selected wine pairing. There is also a terrace to relax on while savouring the tasty fare. “When we originally picked this location, Blai was much quieter,” Ekaitz explained. “But we’re happy with the way the area has been regenerated. Now locals and tourists think this is the best spot to be in the city”.

www.blai9.com The owners of this innovative tapas bar believe that “tapas are an expression of freedom” and rules simply get in the way. The team of food professionals are committed to offering highquality tapas with a twist. Blai 9 is a self-service place, so help yourself to scrumptious-looking nibbles offered up on colourful platters. A tough choice indeed.

LA TASQUETA DE BLAI. Blai 17. www.facebook.com/ LaTasquetaDeBlai With a caña and pintxo for two euros, this place champions tradition. Their pintxos are made with typical ingredients and served atop slices of floury baguette. “If you’re hopping from one pintxos bar to the next, you have to stop here,” said Rafael, from Mexico. “It’s a great place to enjoy the people and ambience of this area, plus the house wine is really good and super cheap.”

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BLAI 9.

IF YOUR LIFE WAS A FILM, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE?

GISELA

26, STUDENT

Remember me, because it’s a really romantic movie and I experienced something like that last year, luckily without the sad ending.

JAIME

25, LAW STUDENT

The Dark Knight, because I’m going to be a lawyer and save people with the law. I’d also like to be rich and have a cool life like Batman.

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 L’ATELIER DE BLAI. Blai 40. Keeping with the theme of Carrer de Blai, L’Atelier offers a buffet of various pintxos and tells customers to keep their sticks so they can calculate the bill at the end of a delicious evening. What stands out here? The gracious owners and keen staff who do all they can to make your visit top notch.

BARRAMÓN BARCELONA. Blai 28. Searching for a spot where bread isn’t the foundation of every bite? From risottos to seafood, Barramón has good food that will fill you up. Whether you go for the dim lighting and intimacy of the tables inside, or prefer to let the music drift out to you on the terrace, this is a lovely stop on your food tour of Carrer de Blai.

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BERTA

32, ART TEACHER

Scusa ma ti chiamo amore because I have an older Italian boyfriend and I hope our story ends in the same way as it does in the film. The film is a little cheesy, but they stay together.

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IN THE CITY

A place of my oWN

Painted geometric shapes create an optical illusion in the hallway.

THIS AMERICAN COUPLE HAVE TAKEN A BLANK CANVAS AND CREATED A WORLD OF THEIR OWN. TEXT BY RACHEL HUFFMAN. PHOTOS BY RICARDO LEAL

teven Partington and Damon Bopp are relatively new to Barcelona, but after nearly two years, they have hit their stride. Steven has set himself up in a coworking space, putting his tech-savvy nature to good use, and Damon, a decorative painter still forging his career path in the city, has used their new apartment in the Barri Gótic to heal his ‘acclimatisation pains’. Like the majority of Barcelona apartments, Steven and Damon’s came all white. “After months of viewing apartments that weren’t quite right, we saw this one and our mouths dropped,” Steven said. “But the things we loved about it—the terrace, the high ceilings, the original pocket doors—couldn’t mask the drabness of the white walls in every single room.” So the first thing they asked their real estate agent was “Can we paint?” She didn’t speak a word of English, and “our Spanish was even worse back then,” Steven joked, but they finally got a yes out of her. Now their apartment is full of colours and patterns, murals and stenciling, from the walls to the furniture. “This has been my therapy,” said Damon, motioning to the coats of paint around him. The couple met in Los Angeles, but eventually moved to New Jersey. They had been living there for a number of years when they realised that they were stuck in a rut. “We had great jobs, wonderful friends and a beautiful house,” Steven said, but they were missing that unexpected twist in their life story. “We couldn’t imagine being in the same place, doing the same thing for 15, 20, 25 more years.” So they began devising a plan. Damon learned he could acquire dual citizenship because his mother was born in the UK, and Steven dealt with all the red tape. “In the end, it wasn’t so much about leaving the States, as it was about getting to Europe,” Steven explained. They started their life abroad in England, but Steven pushed for them to put down roots in Barcelona. “For me, it was the feeling of the city. Seeing people truly enjoying their days, taking walks with their families and having long lunches, it all makes me want to slow down and learn to really be present in my own life,” Steven explained. “The city is also so visually stunning, being on the water and having such alluring architecture,” Damon added. “I suppose I got caught up in the romanticism of it all.” Settling into their fantastic space amid the churros and chocolate shops of Carrer de Petritxol involved a number of steps. First, the couple decided to ship a large portion of their belongings across the Atlantic, after they found that it would cost them just as much to buy new furnishings in Barcelona as it would to ship all their old stuff over. When they left their home in New Jersey, they threw away five tonnes of belongings, filling a giant metal skip with items they no longer wanted. What they were left with fits their Barcelona apartment perfectly. “I love the size of this place,” Damon said. “For once we aren’t left with any empty rooms.” The apartment is decorated with classic pieces, quirky collections and hints of contemporary design. Damon explained, “When you live on the East Coast, everything is mahogany. When we moved here, Steven begged, ‘Can we have some more contemporary stuff ?’ So we still have our grandma pieces that we paid for a decade ago, but we’re slowly incorporating trendy tidbits, too.” Steven excitedly pointed out their new, stylish light fixture in the living room. The ceiling light consists of straight, thin, silver tubes with globe light bulbs on each end and exposed wiring to give it more of an

Damon has recreated ancient Roman frescoes in the bedroom.

industrial look, which they bought from their lighting designer and friend Imanol Ossa Altzibar. Also in the living room, colourful throw pillows brighten up an off-white couch; a decorative, woven rug, which they brought back from Marrakesh lies underfoot, and vintage Vanity Fair and Vogue covers line the walls. In the adjoining dining room, the walls are covered in framed dog portraits, but this is not the most unconventional collection the couple have maintained over the years. Throughout the entire apartment, birdcages of all shapes, sizes and functions are perched in corners, on tables and above wardrobes. A rectangular, blue cage to the right of the front door is one of the first things you notice when you enter the apartment. The little brown and yellow birds nestled together on a branch inside are adorable, making it possibly Damon’s favourite of the assemblage. A chipping, seafoam green birdcage with a white, Chinese paper lantern inside sits adjacent to a gold wire cage with a vintage clock propped up on the artificial grass rather than a bird. These, and many more, draw the attention of Steven and Damon’s guests—but not as much as Damon’s masterpieces. “I try to create things that are visually suitable for a specific space,”

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Damon described. On the walls of one room, he recreated the typical modernista tiles found in Barcelona. In another, he designed a square stencil made up of four, congruent triangles and used it to cover the walls as if they were wallpapered. He has revamped secondhand dining room chairs and display cabinets. All with a paintbrush, elegant colour palette and his superb artistic ability. “What I love is that Damon always adds a custom detail to every piece,” said Steven proudly. For example, a chest of drawers next to their bed has Steven’s surname painted on it in meticulous calligraphy. Also in their bedroom is perhaps the most impressive decorative painting Damon has done in the apartment. If you have ever been to see the old Roman frescoes at the mNAC (crumbling and faded, but still beautiful), you can imagine what the walls of the bedroom look like. The elongated windows of the bedroom lead out onto a large terrace, soaked in sun during the long summer days, where Steven and Damon have lined the perimeter with potted green plants and set up four bamboo-framed, white linen lounge chairs. They finally had their first party a few months back, which was a great success. With a terrace like theirs, how could people not enjoy themselves? “Out of the three houses we’ve had, this is my favourite,” Damon confided. It’s not hard to see why. To see more of Damon’s work, visit his website: www.boppart.com. Designs inspired by Modernista tiles could be easily mistaken for the real thing.

If you have made yourself an interesting home from home and would like to appear in our Place of My Own feature, please send an email to editorial@ barcelona-metropolitan.com.

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BARCELONA WAS NAMED GLOBAL SMART CITY OF 2015. BUT HOW IS TECHNOLOGY CHANGING CITY LIFE? TEXT BY ESTHER JONES.

t’s early Monday morning. You step out of your carbon neutral apartment block and hop into your electric car. It’s still dark and, as you drive along, the self-powered street lights ahead get brighter as you approach then fade as you pass by. An ambulance speeds past and the lights turn green to let it through. It’s heading to help a man who has collapsed on the pavement. A medical drone is attending to him until the ambulance arrives. You reach your office and check your smartphone for the nearest available parking spot. Welcome to life in a smart city. And, perhaps, welcome to the Barcelona of the future. The Catalan capital is at the vanguard of the smart city movement, which promises sustainable cities and improved quality of life. But, is this really the future urban reality or is it just an unachievable Utopia or, worse still, an Orwellian nightmare? City management is a hot topic. Cities are home to 54 percent of the world's population and consume more than two thirds of the world’s energy. By 2050 over 75 percent of people will live in urban areas. City administrators and developers are on a desperate hunt for new ways to manage their already overburdened spaces and services and, since the early Nineties, have increasingly looked to technology for solutions for everything from traffic control to waste disposal and, in more recent years, environmental sustainability. The idea is that with the use of technology a city can manage its resources in a more efficient manner, and anticipate and respond more effectively to residents’ needs. Integrated information and communication networks collect and analyse real-time data from around the city. This data, in turn, feeds the technology that, in theory, improves residents’ lives and promotes sustainability and efficiency. Across the world, governments and city planners are falling over themselves in their enthusiasm to be smart cities. In fact, it’s hard to find a city that doesn’t claim to be implementing ‘smart’ solutions. From Amsterdam to New Delhi, Lagos to Bogotá, the same buzzwords are flying

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Smart CITIES around, and it’s all about sustainability, technology and innovation. In India, $10 billion have been earmarked for 100 future smart cities and, according to Pike Research, over $108 billion will have been invested in smart cities worldwide by 2020. Leading the way in Europe is the Smart Cities and Communities European Innovation Partnership (SCC). The SCC aims to pool resources from across the EU and create new technologies that can be rolled out in cities across the continent. Almost three quarters of Europeans live in cities and consume 80 percent of the area’s energy, so one of the main goals of the partnership is for new technologies to help the region reach the ambitious 20-20-20 energy targets—20 percent reduction in CO2, 20 percent of energy coming from renewables and a 20 percent increase in energy efficiency—set for 2020. And the EU is putting its money where its mouth is; in 2013 alone, €365 million of EU funds went to making these urban technology solutions a reality. Right out there forging a path into the future is Barcelona. This Mediterranean city of just 1.7 million inhabitants has made a global name for itself as a leading smart city and is rarely absent from any debate on cities of the future. Ever since the mid-19th century, when engineer Ildefons Cerdá had a new vision for Barcelona with the Eixample, Barcelona has kept an eye firmly on the future, embracing innovation and creativity in its urban planning. Its transition to smart city thinking, however, probably began ten years ago, when the Ajuntament made a significant investment to deploy a corporate broadband network based on optical fibre to connect all the city council buildings. Ex-mayor Xavier Trias was a big champion of the cause, and the Catalan capital, never short on ambition and always happy to take centre stage, has thrown all its weight behind the smart cities project. It is also one of the few cities of its size with a powerful Chief Information Officer, Manel Sanromá, who has held the position since July 2011. The effort and investment seem to be paying off. In 2014, Barcelona won the first European Capital of Innovation Award, "for introducing

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3. LONDON

2. NEW YORK

4. NICE

1. BARCELONA 5. SINGAPORE

Top 5 SMART CITIES (Juniper Research)

By 2030 BILLION PEOPLE WILL LIVE IN CITIES.

H 54% OF THE WORLD'S POPULATION LIVE IN CITIES CITIES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR 75% OF GDP CONSUME 75% OF GLOBAL ENERGY EMIT 50-60% OF THE WORLD'S GREENHOUSE GASES

the use of new technologies to bring the city closer to citizens". Juniper Research named it Global Smart City 2015 (beating New York and London to second and third place respectively) and concluded that it performed well on all fronts, from social cohesion to smart traffic management, calling it an “exciting model of success from which others can learn”. Add to these accolades the fact that the city has sealed the deal to host the Mobile World Capital conference until 2023 and is the host of the annual Smart City Expo (taking place this year on November 17th-19th) and there’s no doubt that the city is making waves in the smart community.

levels, allowing irrigation to be controlled by remote control. Smart traffic lights help emergency vehicles get to their destinations faster by turning green as they approach. More than 50 percent of the city’s streetlights are controlled remotely and are transitioning to LED technology. Taking things one step further, 22 self-powered lighting units were installed along the Llevant beach (located between Mar Bella and Diagonal Mar) in May this year. Six of the units use hybrid solar and mini wind power, while the other 16 rely on solar power technology, and all generate enough energy without being connected to mains electricity. And, cutting the city’s energy bill even

CURRENTLY THERE ARE 461 PUBLIC WIFI HOTSPOTS AND PLANS TO ADD ANOTHER 1,500, WITH THE NETWORK EVENTUALLY INCLUDING THE CITY’S PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES AND ITS PARKS AND GARDENS. If you don’t live in Poblenou, don’t use public transport or don’t own a smartphone, you are possibly scratching your head right now as your own view of the city collides with the vision of Barcelona as a global leader in smart technology. But start to look around and you’ll realise that the city is slowly changing. In fact, the Smart City Strategy includes more than 120 projects. These projects are classified into programmes which cover all areas of the city’s management, including public and social services, companies and business, environment, mobility, research and innovation, communications, and tourism. The projects are both public and privatefunded and often a combination of the two. They run the whole technological gamut, from cutting-edge technology to what simply seems like good old common sense aided by a smartphone. Many of the most lauded initiatives use new technology to reduce energy consumption, although many citizens will be oblivious to them. In 77 of the city’s green spaces, sensor systems transmit real-time data about water

further, the Self-Sufficient Buildings project monitors the energy within the Ajuntament buildings, meaning that any deviations on consumption can be quickly corrected. More apparent to the average Barcelona dweller are the strides that have been made regarding transport and mobility in the city. The new Bicing app can tell you where the nearest bikes and parking spaces are and help you map out the best route. The bus routes that were introduced in 2012 include buses which travel the city vertically, horizontally and diagonally, and are based on data of the flow of people using public transport. Parking app ‘ApparkB’ takes the frustration out of searching for a parking space. The city is also fostering a whole network of electric vehicles, including taxis, buses, car sharing, motorbikes and bicycles. The smart city website states ambitiously, “We intend to turn electric vehicles into Barcelona’s standard mode of public and private transport for individuals and groups”. And although that may take a while to become a reality, there are already over

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WHAT DO YOU THINK OF BARCELONA'S SMART CITY AMBITIONS? CLAUDIA BAQUEDANO LANGUAGE & MULTIMEDIA SCHOOL MANAGER, BRAZIL

Lives in: Born I don’t use many of these things. Although, I saw one of the phone charging stations the other day. That’s a really nice idea—we need one in Born.

ERIKA KINNEY The Smart City Campus under construction in Poblenou.

300 charging points in the city, part of the ambitious project co-ordinated by LIVE, a public-private platform, whose goal is to promote sustainable mobility in Barcelona and Catalunya. Another key part of the Ajuntament’s strategy is to help residents and tourists stay connected and informed about the city’s services. If you have a smartphone you can make use of the city’s free WiFi network. Currently there are 461 public hotspots and plans to add another 1,500, with the network eventually including the city’s public transport services and its parks and gardens. And you may have spotted some of the black Contactless Barcelona poles dotted around the city. Using NFC or QR codes you can access facilities, services, activities, apps and an events calendar, all related to the place you’re standing. Much of this innovation is taking place in Poblenou. For nearly 15 years, this area has been making the transition from an industrial past to a technological future. In 2001, 200 hectares of industrial sites were redeveloped under the name @22 in an effort to convert the area into a new hub for technology and innovation. In the heart of this area is the Smart City Campus. In partnership with companies such as Cisco, Telefónica and Schneider Electric, this public-private initiative aims to bring together key innovators, including businesses, universities and innovation centres, creating a hotbed for technological urban solutions. A number of old factories in the area are being redeveloped, including Can Ricart, La Escocesa and Ca l’Alier (see last month's Metropolitan). The latter is being converted into a zero-emissions building, which will house Cisco and Schneider Electric’s Innovation Centres, and is due to open in summer 2016. One of the city’s biggest goals and challenges in implementing the above and planning for the future has been to break down its traditional information silos, where data has been limited to one area or function. The aim is that all data collected and processed should now flow across all sectors of life in the city. There are two key components to enable this information flow. The first is the city’s telecommunications network which integrates all of the city’s fibre optic and WiFi networks into one. The second is the Urban Platform, which provides the city’s IT structure, collecting, storing and analysing the data. At the heart of all of this is the city council’s Open Data project, through which the public data collected is made available to all. Use of this information is actively encouraged. On the website opendata.bcn.cat, you can find data on all aspects of life in the city. Want to know the nationality of the city’s car owners? Monthly rent by neighbourhood? Or perhaps a map of land plots? It’s all there. And, to encourage citizen participation, you can even join the online community and receive regular news and updates. If some of this data gives you an idea for a new app that would benefit the city, there’s even a place to pitch your idea.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER, MEXICO

Lives in: Poble Sec I haven’t noticed many drastic changes but of course things change in small ways. There are things that affect my life little by little, like the free WiFi, which is helpful because you can use it anywhere.

MARIE SOGELOVA BUREAUCRACY AGENT, CZECH REPUBLIC

Lives in: Eixample The free Barcelona WiFi was very useful when I first moved here and I use Bicing a lot. It’s very good and it definitely makes life easier. I’m not surprised that Barcelona was named Global Smart City of the year because I think it is always developing.

DANIEL ROURA LAWYER, BARCELONA

Lives in: Eixample I’ve never heard of the smart city concept but I think it’s a good thing because two or three years ago we had none of this. I think if you have the gadgets it’s perfect. It’s good for the young generation but for older people it can be difficult to come to terms with the technology. I’m surprised Barcelona was named Global Smart City of the year—it’s not like Shanghai or New York.

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Technology clearly has a key role to play in reducing urban energy consumption, but will making daily life easier really help the average city dweller to live better? Is it possible, or even desirable, to create a smooth running machine out of the general disorder and unpredictability that is life? What about the centuries of organic growth that went into creating many of the cities we love today? Not everyone thinks that smart cities are the answer to the world’s growing urban populations. Many urban planners consider the very term 'smart city' as past its sell by date, used and misused so much that it has become a meaningless buzzword. US urbanist and author of Against Smart Cities (2013), Adam Greenfield, is a vocal critic of smart cities and talks of the dangers of people becoming little more than ‘end users’ in the city, using technology that has been imposed on them. He argues that top-down solutions focussed only on technology—rather than ground-up ideas from the inhabitants themselves—are of limited use and are highly unlikely to tackle the real issues. The UN’s third annual International Happiness Report published in April this year showed that although GDP plays a big part in our overall satisfaction with life, freedom to make choices and social support contribute in a major way to our happiness. So, while we’d probably all enjoy a city that runs smoothly, social connections and the human factor are just as important to us. But perhaps the main fear of smart cities is the danger of mass data collection and its incursion into our individual privacy. Are we walking blindly into a 24/7 surveillance state where we willingly collude to have our every single movement and action recorded? The collection and analysis of data is a major component of smart city technology—it’s what makes it all so smart. But, what about citizen privacy? This is a delicate balance that most cities and businesses are still trying to get right, and it’s likely to be a topic of contention for many years to come. It seems that Barcelona is aware of the pitfalls and is working to overcome them, particularly regarding resident involvement and data collection. The Ajuntament is keen to emphasise the importance of social cohesion within its smart city strategy and has supported a number of private and public initiatives that address social issues using new technology. Some months after taking on the post as CIO, Sanromá wrote in an article that the smart city concept is “a new gold rush that often forgets that the cities themselves and their inhabitants are protagonists of the first order.” He also talks about the importance of “an integral conception of the city where it and its inhabitants are the driving force, not the passive receptors, of a technology avalanche.” Vincles is an example of technology that puts people first. This digital platform helps elderly people at risk from social exclusion by allowing them to easily access a network of family, friends and health and social workers, all through a touchscreen tablet application. Another project, Telecare, installs a device in the home of elderly or disabled people, which they can use to access a help centre and the services they need. 70,000 people in the city are currently using a Telecare device. Regarding data collection, Sanromá commented in an interview with Vilaweb in March this year, “If we apply bad policies, we could convert it into Big Brother. If we apply good policies it will become Big Sister”. The sharing of information through the open data project aims to increase transparency. Perhaps if we feel the data belongs to all of us, for the good of all of us, we are less inclined to worry about how much data we are unwittingly providing. So, how do we feel about living in a city of the future? Certainly the use of technology to curb our wastefulness and reduce our collective carbon footprint is something to be embraced. And it’s actually quite invigorating to know that we’re living in one of the world’s leading cities in smart urban technology. Time will tell how many of the dozens of ‘smart’ initiatives listed on the Ajuntament’s smart city website will actually become helpful in our daily lives. But it’s still early days and, so far, Barcelona seems to be trying to strike the right balance between technology and people, and is creating genuine business opportunities for individuals and private companies. And if you ever find yourself worrying that the city you love may one day be a faceless, perfectly-functioning, well-oiled machine in which you are nothing but a cog, just take a walk through the old city and breathe in the unpredictable, messy chaos that is human life and feel reassured.

SMART IDEAS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE Solar bike path. Krommenie, Netherlands SolaRoad is the first solar powered bicycle road that generates electricity. It is 230 feet long, and can produce just enough electricity in a year to power two to three houses. Smart traffic lights for cyclists. London, UK London recently began trialling a new traffic light system that detects when a lot of cyclists are approaching a junction and stays green longer to help traffic flow and reduce congestion. Smart waste disposal. Songdo, South Korea Songdo is the world’s first smart city built from scratch, and due for completion this year. There are no rubbish trucks here. Household waste is sucked straight from the kitchen through a network of underground tunnels to waste processing centres. Vehicle to grid. Berlin, Germany Working with BMW and Vattenfall, Berlin is testing vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies with the objective of generating power from electric vehicles. Squats for free rides. Mexico City, Mexico Mexico city residents can earn themselves a free metro ride by performing ten consecutive squats at one of 30 ‘health stations’. The machine counts the squats with a motion sensor then releases a free ticket.

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gallery THE STREETS OF BARCELONA ARE LIKE an open-air museum in many ways. Clare sheppard takes us on a guided tour of some of the City’s most intriguing sCulptures. TEXT BY CLARE SHEPPARD. PHOTOS BY KIRSTY MOORE.

ix years ago this September, my bockety green suitcase and I arrived in El Prat Terminal Two, ready to be greeted by a new city and the man who awaited me. Upon emerging through the doors, arms outstretched for the greatest of embraces, I realised the latter had failed to show. I jerked my suitcase forward and slumped against a neat square of marble. Rocking my neck in an attempt to alleviate mounting irritation, I noticed that directly above me was the chin-groove of a horse. I propped myself up, took a few steps backwards and saw that what I had collapsed against was in fact a majestic sculptural representation of a horse—El Caballo by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Botero’s horse towered there, beautifully toned in its muscularity, with a calming and reassuring air of benign strength, its head slightly reclined, as if ready to tackle, maybe play in, the turmoil which lay beyond the airport’s doors. Botero’s horse witnessed my boyfriend’s arrival, the reconciliation that ensued, my entrance into Barcelona and my inauguration into its sculptural arts. Like Botero’s horse, the many sculptures of Barcelona have acted as the unwitting voyeurs, props and mediators to the everyday affairs of this city and its people. And since they share our stories, getting to know these silent companions can help us to build a picture of the city we inhabit and the diversity of its neighbourhoods. Another of Botero’s animalistic sculptures has certainly been witness to, and the subject of, a few yarns. El Gato Gordo is now in his fourth home. Having arrived in Barcelona in 1987, he went from Parc Ciutadella, to the Estadì Olímpic, to Jardín de Baluard and finally to the upper end of

the Rambla de Raval. He is no stranger to having the lives of the public literally thrust upon him: his whiskers used as hat-stands, his sturdy back to prop up babies for comedic photos, his plump legs to give respite to smokers and ‘botelloneros’. In peak season, this humble feline attracts many visitors daily; each one coming away amused by the thoroughness with which his anatomy is drawn and the seeming benevolence of his manner. Botero’s Gato Gordo and El Caballo are not the only members of the animal kingdom that share our narratives and project the carefree nature of Barcelona in the latter half of the 20th century. If we leave the colourful charm of the Rambla de Raval for the loftier allure of Rambla de Catalunya, at one end we will meet a thoughtful bull, El Pensador, and at the other, a provocatively posed giraffe, La Jirafa Coqueta, both by Josep Granyer. Granyer had intended that there be ten ‘surrealist zoo sculptures’ dotted along the Rambla, yet because residents regarded the jestful nature of the statues as inappropriate in such a central position of the

towers above the chaos; the broad, sweeping brushstrokes in blue, yellow and white, the relief of red dots, the jutting, jagged face, its sheer size and flamboyance prominently convey Barcelona’s confident engagement in Pop Art. You can see the scale of its divergence from the traditional reverence demonstrated by the historical sculptures of Christopher Colombus and Antonio López i López nearby. This willingness to participate in experiments of contemporary art continues beyond the comforting confines of the older part of the city. If you travel several stops north on the metro to Montbau (L3), you will emerge into an alienating setting—few people, just fast cars and big roads, and the disconcerting hum of hospital machinery. It is here that Los Mistos, the work of Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, stands. In this giant sculpture, used or discarded matches fall upon the roadside, others leap triumphantly from the matchbox, one blue flame still burning. The work celebrates the energy of the area, and is, like El Cap de Barcelona, a further assertion of the city’s readiness to put some Pop

“the many sCulptures of BarCelona have aCted as the unwitting voyeurs, props and mediators to the everyday affairs of this City and its people.” city, the plan was aborted and the bull and giraffe were left to assume sole responsibility for the amusement of passersby. Tight-suited, briskwalking businessmen; meandering, brightly clad tourists; boisterous youths—none can help but let a smile creep onto their faces. The humour of these pieces is in sharp contrast to Josep Maria Subirich’s controversial Passion Façade which adorns the Sagrada Familia. This presents a radical change in disposition towards the human condition as it pulses a solemn reverence and, notwithstanding the sombre subject matter, it suggests sinfulness and judgement. Perhaps echoing a premeditated disapproval of the hoards of tourists, who come to gawp at the architectural masterpiece to which the sculptures are attached. In summer, whilst many flee for the weekend to the nearby Costa Brava, others flock to Barceloneta to take some respite from the static haze that envelops the city. Sculptures become meeting points, backrests, oases of shade. Roy Lichtenstein’s El Cap de Barcelona (1992)

in its playground. At times, especially high season, the number of narratives springing up around El Gato Gordo and his zoological friends downtown can be overwhelming. An escape to Nou Barris reminds us that it is not just the sculptures of the city centre who have tales to tell. The neighbourhood has been the location of much immigration, as well as recent urban regeneration. It now boasts an abundance of sculptural works including El Guinea (the fox, another zoological theme) by Julià Riu i Serra and La Flama by Riccard Vaccaro. The latter represents the flame as the origin of culture, alluding to its use by primitive man and as a symbol of artistic inspiration. It is impossible to account for every curious sculpture, traditional and avant-garde, which adorns this city. These are just a few that have been witness to some of my narratives and the tales of many others. Our unfolding stories are inspired by, and tied up in, their living spaces— they have their own histories and are implicated in ours.

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1. El Caballo 2. El Gato Gordo 3. El Pensador 4. La Girafa Coqueta 5. Passion Façade 6. Los Mistos 7. El Cap de Barcelona 8. La Flama 8

MORE SCULPTURES AROUND THE CITY THE LOBSTER/GAMBRINUS BY JAVIER MARISCAL Pg. Colom/Via Laietana. Metro: Barceloneta. This 10-metre long fibreglass lobster sculpture is the creation of Valencia born artist Javier Mariscal. EL PEIX BY FRANK GEHRY Pg. Marítim de la Barceloneta - Port Olímpic. Metro: Ciutadella Vila Olímpica. Built for the 1992 Olympic Games by Frank Gehry, the golden stainless steel of El Peix changes colour depending on the position of the sun. MIRO MOSAIC BY JOAN MIRÓ La Rambla. Pla de la Boqueria. Metro: Liceu. Joan Miró’s brightly coloured mosaic lies opposite the former site of the old Boqueria city gate on the Rambla.

JUAN MUÑOZ BY A ROOM WHERE IT ALWAYS RAINS Plaça del Mar. Metro: Barceloneta. Part of the renewal project for the 1992 Olympic games, this sombre sculpture by Spanish artist Juan Muñoz includes featureless figures. L’ESTEL FERIT BY REBECCA HORN Playa de la Barceloneta. Metro: Barceloneta. This leaning tower was built in 1992 by German artist Rebecca Horn in homage to Barcelona’s fishing district. DAVID AND GOLIATH SCULPTURE BY ANTONI LLENA Barcelona Vila Olimpica. Metro: Ciutadella Vila Olímpica. This fragile structure represents the struggle against urban development in Barcelona in the early Nineties.

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WHAT’S ON

MUSIC IN CONCERT 4th. Hannah Wants. Sala Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 5th. Jax Jones. Sala Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 6th. Maná. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg. Olímpic 5-7. 9th. Miguel Bosé. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg. Olímpic 5-7. 10th. Hombres G. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg. Olímpic 5-7. 11th. Cancer Bats. Sala Boveda. Roc Boronat 33. 12th. AlunaGeorge. Sala Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 13th. Jamie Jones. Row 14. Autovia Castelldefels. 14th. Manu Guix Luz de Gas. Muntaner 246. 16th. Alejandro Sanz. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg. Olímpic 5-7. 18th. Room 94. Sala Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 19th. Tori Sparks. Flamenco Barcelona. Progrés 38. 20th. Leon Bridges. Sala Bikini. Diagonal 547. 20th. Pendulum. Wow Festival. Poble Espanyol. Av Francesc Ferrer i Guardia 13. 21st. The Waterboys. BARTS. Paral·lel 62. 24th. DJ Sneak. Carpe Diem. Passeig Marítim 32. 25th. Rick Astley. Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113. 26th. Diana Krall. L’Auditori. Lepant 150. 29th. Sufjan Stevens. Platja del Fòrum i Parc de la Pau.

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THE WOW FACTOR

WOW FESTIVAL. POBLE ESPANYOL. AV FRANCESC FERRER I GUARDIA 13. SEPTEMBER 20TH. There’s a new festival in town, and it has one aim: to transport the audience away from everyday life, for a night which offers more than music alone. Acts such as electronic artist Vitalic and electro dance-punk act The Bloody Beetroots feature on the line up, whilst art installations and audio-visual technology create a truly immersive experience. Also on the bill is Australian-British drum and bass group, Pendulum (pictured above). Formed in Perth in 2002, by three members from diverse musical backgrounds, including dance and metal, the band combines elements of hard rock and electro, resulting in a unique and undeniably catchy sound. Enjoying increasing success in both the UK and Australia, 2008 saw them break into the British mainstream with album In Silico (2008), followed in 2010 by Immersion, with singles such as ‘Propane Nightmares’ and ‘Watercolour’ achieving UK chart success. Since 2012, Pendulum have been on hiatus as they concentrated on individual side projects. Now they’re back, and whilst only time will tell whether they’re bringing new material with them, one thing’s for sure: their energetic and powerful performance style will make this a show to remember.

RICKROLLED

RICK ASTLEY. SALA APOLO. NOU DE LA RAMBLA 113. SEPTEMBER 25TH. Had it not been for one of the biggest memes the internet has ever seen back in 2007, British singer Rick Astley may have only been remembered as an Eighties one-hit wonder. Luckily for him, ‘rickrolling’ (the art of tricking unsuspecting internet users into clicking on a link to Astley’s music video for ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’) became such a massive viral phenomenon that he was voted ‘Best Act Ever’ by web users at the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2008. Internet jokes aside, his claims to this title are not without some substance. ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ was a number one hit in 25 countries when it was released in 1987, and his second single, ‘Whenever You Need Somebody’, was also successful, reaching the top spot in seven. To this day, he is the only male artist who can say that his first eight singles all made it to the UK Top 10. Catch Astley on his tour of Spain at Sala Apolo on the 25th.

FOR MORE MUSIC EVENTS VISIT WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

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HIGHLIGHT

READY TO ROCK

FITO & FITIPALDIS. PALAU SANT JORDI. PG. OLÍMPIC 5-7. SEPTEMBER 19TH. In 1998, Fito Cabrales—member of the popular Spanish Nineties rock band Platero y tú—formed Fito & Fitipaldis as a creative outlet to make a different kind of music from that of his original group. Platero y tú parted ways in 2001, leaving Cabrales to turn his full attention to what started out as a side project. The result was a band which has become something of a household name in Spain, with seven platinum-certified albums under their belt, three of which have hit the top spot in the Spanish charts. Originally from Bilbao, Fito Cabrales fronts the band, which takes an easy-going approach to making ‘emotional, complexfree music’, bringing together a fusion of elements such as soul, pop, swing, flamenco and Latin jazz. Hitting the road once more as part of their Huyendo conmigo de mí tour, the group arrives in Barcelona this September, ready to thrill audiences with an unforgettable night of rock.

JAZZ HANDS

47TH VOLL-DAMM FESTIVAL INTERNACIONAL DE JAZZ DE BARCELONA. VARIOUS VENUES. SEPTEMBER 26TH UNTIL DECEMBER 11TH. The Barcelona International Jazz Festival is in its 47th year and, as always, has enticed an impressive line-up of national and international talent. The four-month-long programme, which is sponsored by Voll-Damm, has gained a reputation as one of the biggest jazz events around. With a jam-packed schedule of concerts and master classes, the iconic festival takes over venues throughout the city, from the grandeur of the Palau de la Música, to the intimate rooms of Jamboree Jazz Club. This year, the proceedings will kick off with five-time Grammy award winner, Diana Krall. The Canadian singer and pianist first performed in Barcelona in 1996 and has since gone on to sell more than 15 million albums worldwide. Her return to the city will mark the debut of her latest offering, Wallflower (2015), which includes tributes to legends such as Elton John and Bob Dylan. The festival line-up over the coming months will also include folk singer-songwriter Iron & Wine, clarinet master Paquito D’Rivera and jazz and electronic duo Roberto Fonseca and Fatoumata Diawara, to name but a few. www.theproject.es

N.COM

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WHAT’S ON

ART

HIGHLIGHT

OPENINGS

ARTS SANTA MÒNICA In the Words of Jaime Gil De Biedma. Through poetry, prose and image, this exhibition takes a journey through the life of popular 20th-century poet, Jaime Gil de Biedma. September 9th to October 25th. La Rambla 7. Cristina Lucas. All About Colour. The title of this project focuses on the use of colour to differentiate different nationalities through borders and flags. The exhibition comprises of individuals who, using voice and movement, construct a narrative which explores aspects of state and nation. September 22nd to November 8th. La Rambla 7. MEAM Odd Nerdrum. A retrospective of the work of Norwegian artist Odd Nerdrum, founder of the Kitsch Movement, and works of his disciples. The exhibition will include a sample of his entire painting collection. September 17th to November 15th. Barra de Ferro 5. MISCELANEA Metamorfish II. The second part of this surreal exhibition by Elisa Ancori combines drawing and painting to bring two worlds together—the real and the imaginary. Emotions are what connects the viewer to this fantasy world. September 4th to 27th. Guàrdia 10.

LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE

FRAMES ROCÍO. LA CAPELLA. HOSPITAL 56. SEPTEMBER 16TH-NOVEMBER 1ST. Frames Rocío is a project by artist Federico Garcia Trujillo that reevaluates the controversial documentary Rocío (1980), directed by Fernando Ruiz Vergara, in light of newly recovered content that was censored at the time of the film’s release. Rocío, which documents the pilgrimage of El Rocío in Almonte, Andalusia, was the first documentary to be made in Spain after the adoption of the 1978 constitution and the end of the censorship rules imposed by the Franco regime. Besides the pilgrimage, the documentary uncovered atrocities committed in Almonte in the aftermath of the military coup in 1936, including the deaths of a hundred villagers. Despite the regime having ended, this revelation generated a lot of controversy and the documentary was subsequently banned throughout Spain by the courts, preferring to sweep the issue under the carpet. Ruiz Vergara was ordered to pay José María Reales (the former mayor of Almonte and ringleader of the aforementioned atrocities) 10 million pesetas in damages for the serious accusations directed against him in the film, and he was also sent to prison. When the film finally returned to Spanish cinemas in 1985, it was heavily censored. Through a series of drawings, Garcia Trujillo explores the ways in which the censored content can be publically disseminated in order to challenge and criticise the current constitutional regime in Spain.

LAST CHANCE FUNDACIÓ JOAN MIRÓ Alfons Borrell: Works and Days. The simple yet bold paintings of this Catalan abstract painter have become known for the rare intensity they convey. This exhibition features 60 years worth of the artist’s work. Until September 27th. Parc de Montjuïc. ARTS SANTA MÒNICA Translocacions: Observatori de Projectes. The Translocacions project, that has been running since 2014, finally comes to an end this month. It’s your last chance to explore some of Barcelona’s most diverse neighbourhoods through public artwork, exhibitions and workshops. Until September 13th. La Rambla 7. CAIXA FORUM Tres Narrativas. Lenguaje. Curated by Enrique Juncosa, this exhibition explores linguistics and semantics through artwork by Giovani Anselmo, Tony Cragg and Richard Deacon, to name a few. Until September 27th. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 6-8.

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WORD POWER

PROVA REBUTJADA (TOUT VA BIEN). GALERÍA JOAN PRATS. BALMES 54. SEPTEMBER 1ST - 23RD. The name of this exhibition combines the titles of the two works presented in the gallery: the first is Prova Rebutjada by Joan Brossa, which was previously on display at the MACBA, and the second is Tout va Bien by Antoni Muntadas. The two artists’ works are displayed together in this exhibition due to their similar social and political themes. The exhibition provides an exploration of how words and their poetic form can determine political position, which is a common thread between the two collections. Brossa’s Prova Rebutjada is visual poetry in the form of drawings or sculptures that construct a surreal reality. In Tout va Bien, on the other hand, Muntada uses public images and footage to explore the world of media and its relation to power strategies. He combines iconic images with popular slogans from the media to create an ironic insight into how the media holds power and influence over audiences—whether it be political, religious, economic or cultural. The result of this artistic collaboration is a linguistic exploration of politics and power.

FOR MORE ART EVENTS VISIT WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

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CITY LIFE

MISERACHS. MACBA. PLAÇA DELS ÀNGELS 1. SEPTEMBER 18THJANUARY 10TH. This collection by Barcelona-born photographer Xavier Miserachs takes the viewer on a unique visual journey through the history of the city. His photographs portray the everyday life of residents, focusing on aspects such as economic struggles, work, relationships and celebrations. An influential name in photography, Miserachs’s work depicts his intense relationship with the city throughout his professional career from 1954 to 1998. Miserachs discovered photography at a young age and when he was 17 he won the First Luis Navarro Trophy at the Agrupació Fotogràfica de Catalunya’s Second National Modern Photography Show. After being water damaged by a flood in the Seventies, the archive of images was restored by Miserachs himself, along with historian Maria Dolors Tapias Gil. The collection, which was curated by Horacio Fernandez, includes some 80,000 photographs and negatives, administrative documents and notebooks, as well as publications from the photographer’s personal library.

ARIBAU 87, 2.2A, 08036, Barcelona OFFICE: 93 952 3283 | MOBILE: 675 803 210 service@tiviprint.es | www.tiviprint.es

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WHAT’S ON

MISC. SAMBA BEATS

DÍA DE BRASIL. PARC DEL FÒRUM. SEPTEMBER 6TH. WWW.DIADEBRASIL.ES The Día de Brasil, which first took place back in 2008 at the slightly obscure Parc de la Trinitat Vella, has moved to the Parc del Fòrum this year from its previous location at the Moll de Marina. As the site of some of the city’s most popular festivals, including Barcelona Beach Festival and Hard Rock Rising, the move to Parc del Fòrum suggests this will be a bigger and better event than ever before. In addition to a selection of Brazilian food, culture and activities, the day will feature a funky line up of musicians guaranteed to get the crowd in the mood to dance, including samba-rock artist Aleh and the hip-hop sensation lauded as the ‘Brazilian Jay-Z’, Emicida. The day is part of the 7th Festival de Cultura Brasileña, which also includes a series of Brazilian film screenings from September 10th-13th at Cinemes Girona (Girona 175). Check out www.diadebrasil.es for the full programme.

A TASTE OF BARCELONA

BARCELONA DEGUSTA/BCN&CAKE. FIRA DE BARCELONA. AV. REINA MARIA CRISTINA. SEPTEMBER 24TH-27TH Food lovers rejoice—this September Barcelona Degusta and BCN&Cake join forces to bring a culinary treat to the Fira de Barcelona. Open to both industry professionals and the general public, this food festival will feature a host of activities to delight the tastebuds. Barcelona Degusta offers an array of food-based fun, including cooking demonstrations, the chance to discover Japanese and oriental cuisine, and a space in which to learn from some of Spain’s leading chefs, gaining culinary inspiration and tips along the way. BCN&Cake focuses on the sweeter side of things, with demonstrations on cake and pastry decoration and classes on the art of perfecting the cookie. There’s plenty for kids to enjoy as well, with an area where they can take part in healthy workshops and entertainment from Dr. Smiles. Tickets are available online for both entrance to the show and for individual activities, as well as at the ticket office on the day. Visit www.barcelonadegusta.com and www.bcnandcake.com for the full programme.

FULL OF GRACE

SWAN LAKE. GRAN TEATRE DEL LICEU. LA RAMBLA 51-59. SEPTEMBER 16TH-20TH. Tchaikovsky’s classic, Swan Lake, has been enchanting audiences worldwide since its premiere in 1877 at Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre. This month, the English National Ballet transports audiences to a world of fantasy, deceit, romance and sacrifice as they present the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and the Swan Queen Odette at the Liceu opera house. The story tells of their love and their fight to break the curse cast by the evil Rothbart, and climaxes in a final, emotionally charged scene. This production boasts an award-winning cast, including Spanish-trained Tamara Roja, with choreography by Derek Deane. It has garnered glowing reviews and promises to be a treat for first-time ballet goers and aficionados alike.

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RUN, BARCA, RUN

10K RUNS. AROUND BARCELONA. SEPTEMBER 6TH, 13TH AND 20TH It’s the month made for runners, with no less than three 10k runs to train for—let the carb-loading commence! First off is the second annual Cursa Barça on September 6th, which is organised by FC Barcelona and starts and ends at Camp Nou. Participants will get a free Nike t-shirt designed specifically for the occasion. Registration ends on September 2nd, though, so be quick if you want to take part (www. fcbarcelona.es/cursa2015). Next up is the popular Cursa Mercè on the 13th. Starting and ending near Plaça Espanya, this run forms part of the wider programme of activities for La Mercè and prides itself on its principles of solidarity. Subscription fees go towards supporting a number of charities and NGOs, which have included Unicef and UNESCO in the past. Sign up online until midnight on the 4th at www.bcn.cat/ cursamerce. Poblenou’s festa major, which starts on the 10th, brings us the final run this month. On the 20th, the last day of the festival, the 20th edition of the Cursa Atlética Poblenou will set off on a trail around the neighbourhood. Sign up before the 15th at www.championchip.cat.

FOR MORE EVENTS VISIT WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

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HIGHLIGHT

MERCÈ MADNESS

LA MERCÈ. AROUND THE CITY. SEPTEMBER 18TH-24TH. Barcelona takes on a new life towards the end of the month, when its streets and plaças become awash with festivities in celebration of the city’s patron saint. According to legend, Our Lady of Mercy (La Mercè) protected the city from a plague of locusts in 1687, and an annual festival has been held in her honour ever since. For six days, every corner you turn seems to take you to another of the 600-odd cultural activities that are held during the seven days. Gégants and dragons in Plaça Sant Jaume kick off the festivities, followed by a week of traditions, performances, parades and competitions, including the famous correfoc (fire run) down Via Laietana, as Barcelona’s residents come together for the city-wide festa major. La Mercè is more than castellers (human tower builders) and sardanas dancing, however. Barcelona Acció Musical (BAM) is a six-day music festival hosting free outdoor concerts around the city from the 18th until the 23rd. With over 60 concerts and 10 venues, BAM brings together the best independent local and Spanish talent, as well as a few quality international acts. But that’s not all for music; running alongside BAM is another series of free concerts taking place on public stages around the city and spanning a range of different genres. Meanwhile, public spaces are taken over by street performers, transforming the city into a hub of theatre, circus and dance by day, and light, image and fire shows by night. Museums and institutions hold open days and free admission days. To bring the festivities to a close with a bang, thousands gather in Plaça Espanya on the last night to view the final fireworks display, known as the piromusical. The full programme of activities at La Mercè will be released about two weeks before it starts so keep checking the website in the run up to the event (www. lameva.barcelona.cat/merce). Lastly, be on the lookout for the tango dancers— this year’s invited city is Buenos Aires.

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BCN DUO DE GUITARRA. An evening of live music from Ksenia Axelroud & Joan Benejam. 9pm. Iglesia de Santa Ana.

QUEYRAS & MELINKOV. Cellist Queyras and pianist Melinkov will perform Beethoven’s Sonatas. 8.30pm. Palau de la

MIGUEL BOSÉ. The Latin Grammy award winner returns to the stage with hits from his new album, Amo, and

PANACEA. This play about clinical trials and human ambition contains comedy and drama. 8.30pm. Teatreneu. Terol 35.

LIVING NEPAL. A night of live jazz music, in aid of the victims of the Nepal earthquakes. All proceeds go to charity. 8pm. Jamboree Jazz Club. Plaça Reial 17.

ROCÍO MÁRQUEZ. Fiery flamenco for the closing concert of this year’s Mas i Mas festival. 9pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6.

FULL STACK FEST. There’ll be talks, workshops, tutorials and networking at this computer programming conference. Auditori AXA. Diagonal 547. 1st-5th.

WEDNESDAY

TUESDAY

AMOR AND SHAKESPEARE

SANT JOAN MONDAY

HOMBRES G. The legendary Spanish rock band celebrate 30 years with a series of 30 exclusive concerts around

GAMBEAT WEEKEND. This four-day festival celebrates garage rock with a series of concerts in venues across the city. Various venues. 3rd-5th. www. gambeatweekend.com.

DERIVE VENEZIANE. A film premiere of artist Antoni Muntada’s Derive Veneziane. 7pm. Galeria Joan Prats. Balmes 54.

THURSDAY

DIADA NACIONAL DE CATALUNYA. Enjoy a day off work on this public holiday or join in the cele-

TIBIDABO LIVE FESTIVAL. This music festival featuring Yo La Tengo and Mogwai is set in the inconic Tibidabo funfair. 6pm. Parque Atraccions Tibidabo. 4th-5th.

ENCISAT! Catalan musician Sanjosex opens this annual music cycle which continues until April 2016. 9pm. SAT! Teatre. Neopàtria 54.

FRIDAY

FLEA MARKET BCN. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Sell, swap and buy secondhand goods or just enjoy the

12 FESTIVAL PARC DE LA LINERA. Cultural collective Binary Emotions Knights host this new festival dedicated to independent

MANÁ. The Spanish rock superstars perform in Barcelona as part of their Cama Incendiaria Tour. 9.30pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5.

DIA DE BRASIL. There will be music, cinema and gastronomy at this celebration of Brazilian culture. 12pm. Parc del Fòrum.

SUNDAY

PALO ALTO. This popular market is back for two days this month with shopping, food and music. 11am. Pellaires 30. 5th-6th.

OFF FRINGE. Conor Drum provides the laughs as part of this series presenting the best of the Edinburgh Fringe. 9.30pm. Guinness Laughter Lounge. 7 Sins. Muntaner 7.

SATURDAY

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

For more information visit our website

SEPTEMBER 2015

WHAT'S ON

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VIOLETTA CURRY. The jazz singer will be joined on stage by the Jaume Vilaseca Trio as part of the 25th L’Hora del Jazz Festival. 9pm. Milano Cocktail Bar. Ronda Universitat 35.

THE WATERBOYS. Mike Scott and Co. perform their greatest hits, plus songs from their new album Modern Blues (2015). 8pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

AMOR & SHAKESPEARE. This production reinterprets some of Shakespeare’s greatest love stories. 9pm. Teatre Poliorama. Rambla dels Estudis 115. GRAN GALA FLAMENCO. Enjoy an evening of traditional Spanish dance and music. 9.30pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6.

SUFJAN STEVENS. This American singer-songwriter is best known for his 2005 album, Illinois. 7pm. Auditori CCIB (Forum).

DARÀNIA. The quintet present their first album Les Cançons de Gener (2014). 8pm. Jamboree Jazz Club. Plaça Reial 17.

LUIS ROBISCO. This classic flamenco instrumentalist has gained a solid reputation since his debut in 2004. 9pm. Basílica Santa Maria del Pi. Plaça del Pi 7.

GUS VAN SOUND. The DJ and producer presents a night of IDM, electro, hip hop and dance. 12am. Moog. Arc del Teatre 3.

VAN VAN MARKET. The popular gourmet food market returns during the Mercè festival. Montjuïc Castell and Parc de la Ciutadella. 18th-24th.

BAM FESTIVAL. The 22nd edition of this annual music festival offers free concerts from independent artists. Various venues. 18th-23rd. www. bcn.cat/bam

CARMEN, CARMEN, CARMEN. A tribute to one of the most groundbreaking figures of flamenco dancing, Carmen Amaya. 9pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6. Also on 4th & 8th.

PEDRO JAVIER GONZÁLEZ. A combination of traditional flamenco with more modern styles. 9.30pm. Basilica Santa Maria del Pi. Plaça del Pi 7.

SWAN LAKE. The opening night of the English National Ballet’s breathtaking rendition of a classic tale. 8pm El Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59. 16th-20th.

MANU GUIX. This Catalan composer, musical director and performer is also a coach on Spanish reality TV show Operación Triunfo. 10pm. Luz de Gas. Muntaner 246.

16 ALEJANDRO SANZ. The prolific singer will perform hits from his new album, Sirope (2015). 9pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5. 16th & 17th.

ALUNAGEORGE

AMERICAN SOCIETY HAPPY HOUR. Network and socialise at this monthly event. 8pm. Le Méridien Barcelona. La Rambla 111.

MIGUEL BOSÉ. The Latin Grammy award winner returns to the stage with hits from his new album, Amo, and back catalogue. 9.30pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5.

KEI KOITO. The Japanese organist performs as part of the Palau’s organ series. 8.30pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6.

CARLES MARGARIT & XAVIER ALGANS. Saxophonist Margarit and pianist Algans perform together for this special event. 8pm. Jamboree. Plaça Reial 17.

BCN DUO DE GUITARRA. An evening of live music from Ksenia Axelroud & Joan Benejam. 9pm. Iglesia de Santa Ana. Santa Anna 29.

QUEYRAS & MELINKOV. Cellist Queyras and pianist Melinkov will perform Beethoven’s Sonatas. 8.30pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6.

GALA AIXECA EL TELÓ. A night with the theatre and musical companies of the 2015 season. 9pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. Las Ramblas 51-59.

SKATE LOVE

BARCELONA DEGUSTA 2015. Today is the first day of this popular international food exhibition. Fira de Barcelona. Montjuïc. Palacio 1. Until 27th.

LA MERCÈ. The city’s biggest festa major draws to a close with the piromusical at Montjuïc. Throughout the city. 18th-24th. www.lameva. barcelona.cat/merce.

WOMEN’S NETWORK COFFEE MORNING. Coffee and conversation at this monthly meeting. 11am-1pm. IEN. Via Augusta 123.

STEVEN WILSON. The four-time Grammy nominee, multi-instrumentalist and producer brings progressive rock to the city. 8.30pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

#FLAMENCO@MEAM. Get a taste of Spain with an evening of art, music and dance. 10pm. MEAM. Barra de Ferro 5. Every Thursday.

HOMBRES G. The legendary Spanish rock band celebrate 30 years with a series of 30 exclusive concerts around Spain and the USA. 9pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5.

BIG MAMA MONSTE & RIQUI SABATES. Performing as part of the ‘Blues y Estilos Afines’ cycle. 6pm. MEAM. Barra de Ferro 5. Every Friday.

RICK ASTLEY. The British singer and radio personality will be performing on his Spanish tour. 8pm. Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

FUTURE MUSIC FORUM. The 6th annual edition of this conference focuses on the digital age of music as well as industry developments. Antigua Fábrica Estrella Damn. Rosselló 515.

LINDY EXCHANGE. Summer is still in full swing at this four-day event of live music and dancing. Various locations. 17th-20th. www.ble2015.com

CANCER BATS. Hardcore punk from the Toronto five-piece. Support comes from Wilderness and This Drama. 8pm. Sala Boveda. Roc Boronat 33.

DIADA NACIONAL DE CATALUNYA. Enjoy a day off work on this public holiday or join in the celebrations across the region.

EVA FERNÁNDEZ GRUP. This jazz quintet plays at the Cotton Club. 11pm. Casino. Barcelona. Marina 19-21. (19th & 26th).

PLANETA BARCELONA. The 24th edition of this fitness and wellness convention will include fitness classes and presentations. Campus Hotel UAB. Cerdanyola del Vallès. 25th-27th.

BCN&CAKE. Have your cake and eat it at this foodie event, held alongside Barcelona Degusta. 12pm. Fira de Barcelona. Reina Maria Cristina.

26 DIANA KRALL. The jazz vocalist and pianist performs as part of the 47th edition of the Voll-Damm Barcelona International Jazz Festival. 9pm. Auditori CCIB (Forum).

PIKNIC ELECTRONIK. The last in this popular summer series. 1pm-10pm. Joan Brossa Gardens. Montjuïc. 6th,13th,20th.

OBC & KAZUSHI ONO. The Orchestra of Barcelona will kick-off their new season with a performance at the iconic Sagrada Familia, directed by Kazushi Ono. 7.30pm. Sagrada Familia. Mallorca, 401.

GOOD TIMES, BAD TIMES. This Led Zeppelin-inspired trio perform as part of the 25th Festival L’Hora del Jazz. 1pm. Plaça de la Vila de Gràcia.

FLEA MARKET BCN. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Sell, swap and buy secondhand goods or just enjoy the atmosphere. 11am-8pm. Plaça Blanquerna.

FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS. Fasten your seatbelts for the world championship of rallycross. Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Camino Mas Moreneta. 19th-20th.

SKATE LOVE. There’ll be skating, dancing and music at this annual festival. Various venues throughout Barcelona and Badalona. 18th-20th.

ALUNAGEORGE DJSET. Electronic sounds from the award-winning duo and BRITs Critics’ Choice 2013. 8pm. Sala Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

FESTIVAL PARC DE LA LINERA. Cultural collective Binary Emotions Knights host this new festival dedicated to independent music. 12pm. Parque de la Linera, Parets del Vallés.

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CULTURE

YOU MAY BE FORGIVEN FOR MISTAKING THEM FOR CASTELLERS, BUT THE HUMAN PYRAMIDS FORMED BY THE FALCONS HAVE THEIR OWN UNIQUE STYLE AND HISTORY. TEXT BY TORI SPARKS

The Falcons of Barcelona will be performing at the Festes de la Mercè this month.

n the mid-18th century, the elites of several Eastern European nations (Hungary, Czech Republic, Bulgaria and others) began to show interest in the introduction of gymnastics to the field of education. Some historians credit the influence of humanist writers, such as Johann Amos Comenius, who advocated maintaining a healthy body as a path to a healthy mind. Others argue that the nations’ monarchs were interested in the physical training of potential troops via sports associations as a method of self-assertion against the political empires that dominated their countries at that point in history. These organisations were often named after popular folk heroes or social revolutionary figures—in the Czech Republic the practice was called sokol, which means ‘falcon’ in Czech. The philosophy of physical exercise linking to mental strength appealed to Albert Bonet, a Catalan Monsignor who attended a sokol exhibition in Prague. It was through his influence, and that of other prominent nationalist conservatives, that the Falcons were created in Catalunya in the Thirties, with the support of social organisations such as the Ateneu Popular de Barcelona, Palestra, and the Federation of Young Christians of Catalunya. The Federation of Young Christians was the group that took the strongest interest in the Falcons; by the start of the Spanish Civil War, they had amassed over a thousand practitioners. The war put a stop to the movement, as the Fascists considered the Falcons to be a ‘separatist’ activity, whilst the Republicans thought the Falcons to be a Fascist movement. It was not until 1942 that the Falcons Llorenc del Penedès—a group that is still active today—formed and rekindled the Falcons organisations. Today, there are 11 official Falcons groups in Catalunya. The creation of the Falcons of Barcelona was the brainchild of Pere Rovira, who was a member of the local Castellers. Rovira attended the annual gathering of Catalan Falcon groups in 2002 in Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, loved what he saw, and proposed the idea of forming a Falcons organisation in the city. He enlisted the help of the Barcelona Castellers, friends and acquaintances, and started holding rehearsals at the Jesuit College of El Clot. Their official debut as the ‘7th Colla of the Falcons of Catalunya’ was in February 2003 at the festival of Santa Eulàlia. Since then, they have expanded rapidly from a ‘colla’ (group) of fewer than 20 members to up to 75. At first glance, many may not see the difference between the Falcons and the Castellers, but Cristina Moevius, responsible for Communications and Public Relations for the Falcons, says that there are a number distinctions besides the difference in geographical origins (Castellers originated in Valencia). The Falcons construct acrobatic figures in a wide variety of

shapes, the designs often created or stylistically adapted by each individual colla, with no internal support structure to help the participants maintain their balance. The musical accompaniment is continually changing, and constructions can be dynamic or static—the groups are constantly challenging themselves to, as Cristina puts it, “achieve greater verticality.” Moevius says that it is important to maintain these traditional activities not only for their historical significance and links to the past, but also because the organisation strengthens interpersonal bonds within today’s community. “The skills we learn in rehearsals and at events provide us with a set of core values for life, such as teamwork, overcoming obstacles, perseverance… All this helps the personal development of our members. It is also an activity that unites generations; we have members ranging in age from five or six years old all the way up to 60.” The Falcons have been active over the summer, performing around Catalunya, at the Sfinks Festival in Belgium, APLEC in Torino, and will be back in Barcelona to participate in La Mercè this month. Their first appearance will be as a part of the Toc d’Inici, or festival inauguration, on September 18th. On September 20th their main Mercè performance will be in Plaça Sant Jaume, and their final appearance at the festival will be as a part of the 20th annual closing show of local associations (La Muestra de Asociaciones). More information is available on their website: www.falconsdebarcelona.cat.

Photo by Andrea Moreno

Photo by Jordi Farrera

BARCELONA FALCONS

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On the bandwagon THE CITY’S LATEST OBSESSION SHOWS NO SIGN OF PUTTING ON THE BRAKES, BUT IS THERE MORE TO THE STREET FOOD TREND THAN JUST A SLICK SET OF WHEELS? TEXT BY SUZIE DOCHERTY

Buster Turner and Jakob Zeller of Rooftop Smokehouse

Photos by German Parga

t may have been a long time coming, but there’s no mistaking that street food has officially landed in Barcelona. However, whilst the public outpouring of love for food trucks and gourmet markets was rapidly gathering steam in cities across all continents, the Catalan capital adopted a characteristically laid-back approach to the whole thing. But why? It could be due to the already impressive dining landscape, which certainly isn’t lacking in cheap, quality eats, or perhaps the traditional sit-down dining culture that’s been centuries in the making. Whatever the reason, the city is now embracing the street food scene; we’ve seen what’s on the menu and we want more... One of the clever collectives to get in on the action was All Those, brainchild of Santi Garcia and Viqui Sanglas, a couple from Barcelona who returned to the city after living in New York and Berlin. The duo saw a gap in the market the minute they arrived home: “Initially, we moved to Berlin to open a speciality coffee shop, but then we discovered Markthalle Neun, a food market that has been a big inspiration to us. There, all the things we loved about coffee we found in bread, beer and many other artisanal products. When we moved back to Barcelona at the beginning of 2014, we were surprised there was no street food movement in the city, so we started looking for locations of our own. Then Eat Street happened.” Indeed, Eat Street, the city’s inaugural street food fair—organised by BCN Més—kicked off proceedings in April 2014 by taking over CREC, a coworking space in Poble Sec. As if to illustrate that the city had, in fact, been crying out for this sort of informal feed, many of the vendors sold out relatively early in the evening, yet the crowds remained, drinking and enjoying the impromptu party atmosphere late into the night. Others followed suit throughout the year, with Van Van Market making an appearance during September’s Festes de la Mercè; Palo Alto taking over the Poblenou factory of the same name in December; and All Those showcasing their homegrown wares for the first time that same month. Each becoming spontaneous social hubs whenever they take place, these gourmet gatherings have developed into much more than the sum of their parts. So is it a foodie fad or is the craze here to stay? Well, the answer appears simple. In a city that loves socialising as much as Barcelona does, the success of such a movement seems inevitable. Many markets offer the perfect setting for selfies and sunshine and a line-up of food trucks, replete with big bulbs and bunting, has now become the backdrop to a fun weekend with friends or family. But just why is it working so well and what exactly is driving the city’s street food scene?

THIS MUST BE THE PLACE… All cities have their own distinct appeal, but it’s how a place utilises its personality and characteristics that often defines its creative scene, be it in art, music or indeed food. The wealth of unique locations to choose from in Barcelona is just one of the many factors that make the emerging street food style so appealing. From the outset, stalls and trucks have been set up in picturesque locations across the city, unconstrained by barrios and open to all. So far, we’ve seen Eat Street set up camp in the new urban hub of Plaça de les Glòries Catalanes and Barcelona Port, whilst Van Van has taken over Parc de la Ciutadella, Montjuïc Castle and, most recently, La Monumental, the city’s last commercial bullfighting ring. Using these singular settings, easily identifiable within Barcelona’s urban landscape, lends the markets a distinct community atmosphere that makes them all the more appealing to curious crowds. All Those, much like Palo Alto, has a permanent set-up in the city and occupies a prime location in the Universitat de Barcelona. “When we found the University we realised it was exactly what we were looking for,” commented Garcia. “It has an amazing hall where we can place our market and beautiful gardens for the street food area. And it’s in the city centre! What more could we ask for? The only problem was that the space is huge and people were initially a bit sceptical about filling it, but having that venue has helped a lot.” Which makes sense. Hosting events in the sort of places that capture people’s attention and make them want to linger on is vital to their success and as long as organisers keep innovating in terms of staging, the crowds will keep on coming. What’s more, there’s spontaneity in these markets, as they’re naturally always able to offer something new, whether in terms of vendors or location. Whilst a static, bricks-and-mortar establishment has to change fairly regularly to keep things interesting, the city’s food fairs offer an automatic opportunity for constant reinvention, keeping everyone captivated and hungry for the next event.

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Photos courtesy of All Those market.

All Those market

Van Van at La Monumental

Photos by Erika Savandar.

THINKING GLOBAL, EATING LOCAL Just as adding a community aspect to an otherwise universal phenomenon has been vital to the staging, showcasing homegrown produce is what’s really moulding the movement. Whether from a truck or a stall, the grassroots values of the producer have emerged as a fundamental aspect and this, together with a desire to create and innovate, is what’s pushing the phenomenon forward. Garcia agreed with this notion: “We love the global food movement and it has really influenced us, but at the same time we believe that each city has its own personality and that has to be showcased in everything, even in the world of street food. Tradition and modernity don’t have to be opposite, you just have to find the right balance.” One vendor achieving just that is Rooftop Smokehouse. Now a relative veteran of Barcelona’s street food club, they are keen to extol the virtues of smoked and cured cuisine. Buster Turner and Jakob Zeller began, as their moniker would suggest, by developing an array of deliciously smoky meat, fish, chutneys and pickles on a rooftop in Sant Antoni, before hosting popups and eventually acquiring a van from which to tout their wares. Selective about the provenance of all their core ingredients, this creative team doesn’t shy away from using the cuts of meat that need a little more love, and by using processes drawn from across the continents, they’re able to create something completely of their own, right here. So do they think there’s a benefit to having a truck or stall, rather than a restaurant? “It affords us the freedom to smoke food directly at events, allowing us to cook in the moment” said Turner. “However, this can sometimes be slightly stifling to creativity, since experimental techniques can be out of the question when

limited to the truck itself. That’s when your own domestic space does come in handy.” And the team have just that, a kitchen they’re in the process of developing in Fàbrica Lehmann, which Turner said will give them the opportunity to play with more challenging methods, such as fermenting and air drying. The team is motivated by a desire to create the best possible produce, and they understand exactly what’s important to any burgeoning scene: care. It’s not simply about turning up on the day in a truck; it’s about preparing, experimenting and caring enough to keep things interesting for both the punters and themselves. This is just a single example of the effort that’s being put into Barcelona’s culinary landscape, with many artisans combining creative techniques and far-flung flavours with quality regional produce to give them a local twist. For the most part, vendors are pouring their heart and soul into the food they’re bringing to the markets, and representing the milieu with their carefully thought-out dishes. So what’s going to define the city’s future ‘street food’ scene? That’s an easy one. Innovation, not imitation. The All Those manifesto sums this up pretty clearly: “We showcase all those artisans, entrepreneurs, cooks, farmers and food enthusiasts that add value to their local communities. We believe people should be interested in what they eat, where it comes from and how it tastes. At the same time, we strive to inspire people to follow their dreams and start their own project.” Essentially, it doesn’t matter if what HOP ON... we’re eating comes from a fancy food VAN VAN MARKET: Parc de la Ciutadella, truck: what’s characterising the current Festa de la Mercè 2015 movement is the city itself and the people contributing to it. So get out PALO ALTO: Fundació Palo Alto, 3rd & 4th Oct 2015 there, support your local producers and make the most of these markets. ALL THOSE: Barcelona University, Given the effort they’re all going to, 9th & 20th Dec 2015 it’d be rude not to...

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FASHION

in style

AS SUMMER DRAWS TO A CLOSE, WE’VE BEEN SCOUTING OUT THE CITY’S BEST TRANSITIONAL LOOKS—LONG SKIRTS AND THE JUMPER-SHORTS COMBINATION WERE POPULAR.

Name: Nil Alguer Pires Age: 20 From: Barcelona Profession: Shop assistant at H&M Style: Sleek monochrome Bag: H&M Glasses: Wolfnoir Shoes: Sebago Trousers: Bershka

Name: Amalia Rebollo Diaz Age: 20 From: Barcelona Profession: Stylist and blogger for Glamour Spain Style: Seventies denim Shoes: Pompeii Bag: Vintage Sunglasses: Raen

GET THE LOOK

Name: Alexandra Fong Age: 21 From: Hawaii, but lived in LA for many years and now in Barcelona Profession: Marketing intern Style: Urban chic Dress: Arya Bag: Asos Shoes: Pull & Bear

URBAN OUTFITTERS PLATFORM SANDALS €73.23

TOPSHOP DENIM PINAFORE DRESS €48.30 H&M BLACK BAG €59.99 MANGO PLEATED DRESS €83.90 H&M TWILL SHORTS €16.45 WOLFNOIR SUNGLASSES €20.00 TOPSHOP BERGARA 1. H&M PASSEIG DE GRÀCIA 9. WOLFNOIR WWW.WOLFNOIR.COM. URBAN OUTFITTERS PL. CATALUNYA 4.

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TRAVEL

Down the river LOCATED IN THE PROVINCE OF TARRAGONA, THE DELTA DE L’EBRE IS A WIDE SWATH OF WETLAND THAT HARBOURS A NATURAL PARK and the largest rice-growing REGION IN SPAIN. TEXT BY MELISSA LEIGHTY.

ust an hour and a half south of Barcelona, the landscape shifts into something altogether different. Gentle tree-covered mountains rise up along the horizon and the dry Mediterranean scrub leading down to the sea suddenly gives way to a wide, flat landscape of pure unadulterated green—the delta of the river Ebre. It is a breathtaking sight and one certainly worth the short trip to reach it. This large, flat region is made up mostly of rice plants, doing their gentle dance in the breeze against a backdrop of the Serra de Montsià mountains. Its unique landscape—from wide sandy beaches to the tranquil river and quiet harbours—makes it a welcome weekend getaway spot for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Covering an area of 340 square kilometres, the Natural Park of the Delta de l’Ebre is a complex map of different natural features, including the Ebre river which runs into the sea, and the bays, beaches, dunes, woodlands, lagoons and rice paddies which surround it. The paddy fields not only take up a significant portion of the land but are the feature for which the region is best known and a beloved boasting right for locals. There are 14 varieties of rice grown in the area, several of which appear in the different classic rice dishes found throughout Catalunya. The earliest attempts to grow rice in the region failed, due to a lack of infrastructure, but the modern delta is an agricultural gem, owing its success not only to its rice but also to its citrus fruits.

Because of its unique natural features, the area is also home to a rich diversity of wildlife species, from fish, like bass and carp, to migratory and aquatic birds. Indeed, the delta is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting more than 250 species of birds, including egrets, terns, coots, Mallard ducks, gulls, and flamingos, pink from feeding on the small shrimps that live in the brackish waters. It’s worth bringing binoculars for a glimpse of one of these stunning species. La Punta de la Banya is the largest natural habitat in the delta and also an important breeding area for waterfowl. If you’re not particularly interested in searching for local bird species, head for the shore where the windswept dunes lining the coast set it apart from the beaches along the Costa Daurada. La Punta del Fangar beach is a good place to spend the day, relaxing under an umbrella or walking the long wooden boardwalks that line its edge. And if it’s adventure you’re looking for, the wind rushing off the coast makes it a playground for watersports. Delta Natur, located on Darwing Beach, offers a variety of watersports including kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing. If you prefer to experience the beauty of the delta by land, they also organise routes by 4x4 or bicycle. Although the delta is a temperate landscape, its appearance shifts with the seasons, making it an enticing escape throughout the year. Summer is a particularly lovely time of year, when the warm winds blow off the coast and the rice fields turn

a bright, almost electric, green. Autumn, too, is excellent for bird-watchers, since this is a migratory period for birds in Spain. One of the best ways to enjoy the delta is to simply see it, to take in the tranquil beauty of the rice fields, to lay on the wide beaches, and to appreciate the abundant natural landscapes. That said, there are lots of things to do in the area, from sport fishing and watersports to biking and hiking. While visiting, it’s a near-must to take a boat ride along the river. There are several companies that offer sightseeing trips of either 45 minutes or an hour and a half. The guided tour, available in both Spanish and Catalan, teaches visitors about the region’s history as well as the features of the land and the various kinds of animals which make their home there. Another place to learn more about the local fish is at the Sant Carles de la Ràpita market in the port. The market was established back in 1919, and while modernisation may have stolen the traditional cry of the fishmongers selling their stock, the trade is still going strong. Visitors can enjoy a walk through the market and purchase fresh live fish. Boats arrive from 3.30pm every Monday to Friday except during May and June. Prawns from Sant Carles de la Ràpita are one of the best known products from the Ebre region. You can find them on many of the local menus, simply grilled and topped with flaky sea salt. However, it is only one of the many fresh seafood dishes that can be found in the area.

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GETTING THERE The best way to travel to the Ebre is by car, but it is also possible to take the train (Renfe) to most of the major towns in the Delta de l’Ebre and the surrounding region, including L’Ampolla, L’Ametlla de Mar, Carmarles, and L’Aldea. Trains leave from central Barcelona stations.

GONE FISHING

WHERE TO EAT The delta is best known for its freshly-caught seafood, and it’s also becoming a foodie paradise. Below are a few options of where you can have simple local fare or something a little more upscale. Albert Guzmán Restaurant. Sant Isidre, 255, 43540 Sant Carles de la Ràpita. Restaurant Les Moles. Carretera La Senia, Km. 2, 43550 Ulldecona. L’Antic Molí. Crta. Ulldecona-La Senia km 10, Ulldecona. Hotel Restaurant Diego. Ctra. de Galera s/n, 43570 Santa Bárbara. WHERE TO STAY Boutique: L’Hotel Cal Naudi, Hotel Tancat de Codorniu Resort: Ohtels Les Oliveres, Ohtels Cap Roig Budget: Lo Moli de Rosquilles, Nou Rocamar Self-Catered: Ornis Apartments, Dúplex y Apartamentos St. Francesc Historic: Masia Tinet, Parador de Tortosa, Torre del Prior

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a total beginner, there are plenty of places in Catalunya to make a big catch.

Looking to make a big catch? The first step towards a successful fishing trip in Catalunya is to obtain a recreational fishing licence. You can apply for one via the Generalitat de Catalunya’s website (gencat.cat). A one-day fishing licence costs €3, but longer ones that last for up to four years are also available. Once your paperwork is in order, grab some bait and head to one of the region’s many diverse fishing spots.

MEQUINENZA Situated where the rivers Segre and Ebre meet, the small town of Mequinenza lies just across the border in Aragon, although many of the surrounding fishing spots are in Catalunya. Common species include carp, zander and black brass, and the area is a mecca for recreational fishers in search of catfish, which often weigh in at over 100 kilogrammes. Make the most of the rich fishing opportunities by planning a mini-escape here for a few days. Several tour operators offer accommodation and guided fishing tours. CatMaster Tours organise catfish tours for those dedicated to angling the prized species. www.catmastertours.com

COSTA BRAVA Head to the Costa Brava for excellent sea fishing opportunities. L’Estartit, a town that is also popular with scuba divers thanks to its rich sea life, is a great place for beach fishing. One of the best spots is the Platja de la Pletera, a tranquil beach where the river Ter meets the sea. Alternatively, hire a boat or go on an all-inclusive tour of the best fishing enclaves along the coast. At Pesca Estartit you can do both; hiring a boat for half a day costs €120-180. It’s their cephalopod fishing season until late October, so why not give catching squid, octopus and

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cuttlefish a go for something slightly different. www.pescaestartit.com

GIRONA With four rivers running through and around the historic city of Girona, there are plenty of fish to be found. The closest spots are along the rivers Ter and Onyar, where you can find carp, brown trout and barbell, whilst just north of the city, the lake of Banyoles is a good place to catch pike and carp. The best fishing in the province, however, can be found slightly further afield at the Susqueda reservoir to the west, and the Bodoella reservoir to the north.

DELTA DE L’EBRE There are lots of fishing spots along the river where you can set up your gear and fish for free, and there are a variety of both fresh and saltwater species, including dorada (gilthead bream), amberjack and bluefin tuna. Alternatively, there are several game fishing charter boats that offer guided tours of the area with all specialist equipment included, as well as the option of renting your own boat. The multilingual staff at Delta Game Fishing organise all-inclusive trips from €250. Choose from different options including spin fishing, fly fishing and bottom fishing. www.deltagamefishing.com

BE PREPARED Before you set off, stock up on gear in one of Barcelona’s specialist fishing shops. Casa Calico (Plaça de les Olles 9) is one of the oldest fishing shops in Barcelona and they offer fantastic knowledge and equipment for anything from surf fishing to float fishing. www. casacalico.es Game Fisher (Doctor Aiguader 6) also has a good range of products for all techniques. www. game-fisher.com

8/25/15 12:38 PM

RESTAURANT REVIEW

MANO ROTA POBLE SEC DELIVERS THE GOODS ONCE AGAIN, WITH CREATIVE CUISINE IN A CONTEMPORARY, YET COSY, SETTING. TEXT BY TARA STEVENS

From left: Bernat Bermudo and Oswaldo Brito—the bright young chefs behind Mano Rota.

t’s been obvious to me for some time now that Poble Sec (PoSe among its friends) is where it’s at when it comes to food. For a start there’s the axis of Adrià, whose mini-empire spans the frontiers of Poble Sec and Sant Antoni, drawing food-loving adventurers from all over the world; there’s Xemei run by the irrepressible Venetian duo who not only serve fabulous home-school Italian cooking, but also dole out bonhomie like it’s oxygen (po-faced is over, mark my words, these days the dining public just wants to have fun); there’s Damien Bolger’s Box Social (see last month’s review) and the more humble, but no less excellent La Pizza del Sortidor that surely makes the finest woodfired pie in town, the perfect precursor to a craft pint at Brew Pub Le Sec. And that’s before you factor in stalwarts like Quimet i Quimet and Casa Jose Montalban.

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✪ NOT WORTH THE TRIP

Now, there’s Mano Rota too, which pretty much seals the neighbourhood’s position as the foodiest barrio in town. Run by two pals who met when they were training at the Escuela Hofmann and subsequently went on to work the stoves of the late Jean-Luc Figueras and Gaig in Barcelona, Mugaritz in San Sebastian and Lima 27 in Peru, chefs Bernat Bermudo and Oswaldo Brito have finally got their own place in which to shine. And like so many young chefs these days, they refuse to be pigeonholed: the cosy, red-brick lined restaurant is not new-wave or traditional, neither bistro nor fine dining—it’s somewhere in the middle. You can sit at the bar and order one plate and a glass of wine, reserve a table and do the standard three courses, or opt for one of two keenly priced tasting menus. The wine list is interesting too, featuring lots of small, boutique wineries. We were steered towards a Bruja Avería garnatxa from Madrid (not normally my favourite grape, but by these makers it had similar qualities to the peppery, boysenberry end of a Pinot Noir). Think fresh, wild, zippy and an all-round excellent red for lots of different courses. It was so good, in fact, that we ended up calling a wineloving friend who was staying nearby to come join us for a drink after dinner, and he was so impressed that he immediately booked a table for the next night. That’s what good neighbourhood restaurants are all about, you see; the glue that binds local communities together, places where life happens. Bloody good food helps of course, and what I loved about these guys’ cooking was that their dishes were creative and vivacious without being in-your-face trendy or maddeningly ill-conceived. Theirs is confident cooking. Bold flavours to kickstart your tastebuds like cucumber and green apple gazpacho, at once bright yet soothing; salty anchovies criss-crossed over the creamiest puddle of hummus and scattered with earthy oven-dried black olives; and yucca and scamorza (Italian cows’ milk curd cheese) croquettes with ✪✪ COULD IMPROVE

✪✪✪ GOOD

MORE INFO. Creu dels Molers 4, Poble Sec Tel. 93 164 8041 www.manorota.com Open Mon-Sat 12noon-4.30pm, 8.30pm-midnight. Closed Sunday. Price: Small tasting €35, large tasting €55. ✪✪✪✪✪

a punch of lemony mayonnaise so perfectly crisp you can hear folk crunching them across the room. Writing this and perusing the photos I took, I’m overcome with an urge to return this very night. To try again the salt cod with blood orange foam and green olive tapenade that was curiously funky. And I’d happily zip into the bar for a bowl of tender ribbons of courgette stuffed with the oozing heart of a pristine burrata, garnished with toasted hazelnuts and basil. There’s such extraordinary beauty in simplicity and if I had to choose one stand out dish of all my eating thus far in 2015, this would be it. Corvina ceviche with aji amarillo seems to have been the seafood dish of the year—I’ve lost count of the places I’ve had it—but in the hands of Bermudo and Brito it seems to be particularly fine tuned and delicate. As is the mollete (a steamed bun), filled with meltingly tender pork jowl and pickles, and finally, a hunk of beef cheek on celery puree with an ingenious apple and fennel slaw that picked you up just enough for the finale. Indecently thick yogurt, bright red berries, sweet white chocolate and two teaspoons of dark chocolate ganache spiked with sea salt and olive oil. This is what I’m talking about: proper, notshow-offy, grown-up food that’s still madly creative. The sort of food that makes you want to go out for dinner.

✪✪✪✪ VERY GOOD

✪✪✪✪✪ NOT TO BE MISSED

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Recipe

COURGETTE AND CRAB TERRINE Courgettes contain many vitamins and antioxidants. In order to preserve the bright green colour, they should be cooked for a short time only as they can become bitter. The skin is the most nutritious part of the vegetable, but it’s best to only eat the skin if the courgettes are organic. INGREDIENTS 5 small courgettes 3 leeks 2 medium onions 6 eggs 250ml milk 6 crab sticks Olive oil Pepper and salt to season METHOD 1. Chop the leeks and onions into small cubes. Put them in a pan with a little oil over a low heat for about 10 minutes. 2. Cut the courgette into small cubes and add to the pan. Fry over a low heat until the courgette is slightly soft but be careful not to overcook. 3. Once al dente, strain the water from the onion, leek and courgette mixture. 4. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, add milk and mix it with the vegetables. Season. 5. Grease a loaf tin with butter or margarine and pour in a layer of the mixture. Next, add a layer of crab sticks placed across the tin, before pouring the rest of the mixture on top. 6. Sit the loaf tin within an oven tray holding 2-3cm of water. Put the tray in the oven and cook at 180ºC for about 40 minutes. 7. Set aside to cool down and prevent it from breaking. Serve cool and accompany with a vinaigrette. CHEF’S RECOMMENDATIONS • You can vary the ingredients of this recipe as much as you like. Instead of crab you can use prawns, ham or bacon, for example. • When making the mixture, you can also add a couple of tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. • You can try different sauces, such as tartar sauce, mayonnaise, or olive oil. Visit www.ambdosfogons.com for more traditional Catalan recipes by Toni Rocamora.

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QUICK BITES

MORE INFO. Carrer del Parlament 1, Sant Antoni Tel. 93 129 4331 www.laxalada.com Open Tue-Thu 8pm-1am, Fri-Sun 1pm-5pm, 8pm-2am. About €20 for tapas and wine to share.

LA XALADA ORIGINAL TAPAS AND A HOMELY ATMOSPHERE IN SANT ANTONI. TEXT BY TARA STEVENS.

ince I’m writing this in August and August is, quite frankly, a pain when it comes to restaurants, I’m going to keep my musings close to Poble Sec. It’s all about the good eating in these parts remember, and another place that never lets you down is La Xalada, parked right on the corner of the impossibly trendy Parlament and the rather less admired Paral·lel. It’s also the place I chose, with less than 24 hours notice, to celebrate my birthday with 15 friends. “Can we have a table on the terrace?” I pleaded. Absolutely. And to make things easy piped up a friend, “How about just one of every tapa since there are 16 of them?” Isabel Cruz, the congenial owner and host chipped in: “The thing is, if you do that you’ll be lucky to get one patata and half an anchovy each.” But by now cava

Tastings

corks were popping, everyone was gabbing at a hundred miles an hour, not a soul was listening. Isabel, took charge and did us proud, which is exactly what one wants on their birthday. So let me be the first to tell you that with Isabel in charge you can’t go wrong. She expertly pared back the order, trebled everything left, and let the food do the talking. The richly textured brava sauce, served with whole baked, then fried, potatoes, blows every other brava sauce in town out of the water. The vegan montaditos topped with smashed avocado, gordal olives (you know, those big fat juicy ones) and guindilla peppers, had the carnivores fighting the vegetarians to get the last one. My little eight-year-old pal, who is known for his hatred of croquettes— here a deeply savoury goo of pork, chicken and beef mashed down into a béchamel sauce and

blasted in a deep fat fryer—declared them his new favourite food! The fried fish were no mere pescadito frito, but to my mind fabulous enough to go by the name of fritto misto, which has always seemed posher to me, and the boquerones were just the right side of cheek puckeringly tangy. Washed down with an indecent amount of cava (Privat from Alella, since you ask) and accompanied by your favourite friends, there is nothing quite like a dinner of fried food, until, having turned down dessert on account of plumpness, the wondrous Isabel appeared with a stack of ice cold white Russians, and made the night perfection. That’s all. For more tips on the Barcelona dining scene, and occasional morsels from more far-flung places, follow me on Twitter @taralstevens.

Miquel Hudin is originally from California but is now based in Barcelona. He founded the Vinologue enotourism series of wine books (www.vinologue.com).

SPOTLIGHT ON XAREL·LO While Xarel·lo (pronounced sha-rel-lu in Catalan), is a white grape widely planted in Catalunya, it is often easily dismissed as merely one part of the three key grapes in the typical Cava blend. There are many in the region— especially in Penedès where the grape is found most abundantly—who believe that its days of being part of the chorus are over and it’s time to take the spotlight. There have been recent festivals devoted to the grape, and the ’natural’ wine crowd have also taken to it, given that it does well with amphora and other slightly experimental production methods. After several tastings of single varietal

Xarel·lo, I can safely say that I’m a convert. The wines of Porcel·lànic by Ton Rimbau always blow my mind, but their prices start at €60 due to the unique, albeit expensive, clay bottles. Given this, I’d like to offer up a couple of other wonderful, yet wallet-friendly options. LOXAREL XAREL·LO 2014 Loxarel is serious about this grape, so much so that the cellar is named after it—Lo-xarel. But this young wine forms a perfect introduction to the grape. It’s aromatically fresh, elegant and expressive with white fruit notes.

Bright and exciting in the mouth, it opens up the palate wonderfully for seafood appetisers. €11 XAREL·LO D’AT ROCA 2014 One of the more exciting new Xarel·lo bottles to emerge. The production run is just 1,300 bottles from one high altitude vineyard near Ordal called Casa Llarga. A wonderfully aromatic expression of mandarin blossoms, smoky, light minerality and basil. Full and creamy, it doesn’t have as long a finish as some but makes up for it by having great volume for a white wine. €18

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Ice Cream MANNA GELATS 4 BARRI GÒTIC Homemade ice creams, waffles and crêpes in the heart of the Barrio Gótico. Their ice creams are inspired by family recipes, using the best products. The fresh fruit sorbets are made with market-bought products, boasting exotic varieties. Their passion is to please their customers with personalized attention.

NEFW &D

FOOD DRINK

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

under 20 | 20-30 | 30-40 | over 40  food&drink visit our online directory Ban ys Nous 22 | Metro Liceu Tel. 93 342 7312

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/eating-and-drinking Japanese

UKAI 4EIXAMPLE If you are looking for authentic japanese cuisine in Barcelona, Ukai is the right place. This diverse japanese menu ranges from traditional entrees to innovative sushi rolls filled with the freshest ingredients. Come and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience along with excellent service. What are you waiting for?

Mallorca 188 Tel. 93 269 2445 www.ukai.es Mon-Sun from 1pm-4pm,8pm-12am

BE MY BAGEL 4GRÀCIA Do you dream of great bagels? Then Be My Bagel is the right place for you. They sell authentic bagels from Barcelona, just how you like them. They have an extensive range of bagels and cakes, from the more classic choices such as poppy and multigrain to delicious and innovative chocolate, almond and coconut bagels—you won’t come away disappointed.

Planeta 37 (Pl. del Sol) I Metro Fontana and Gràcia I Tel. 93 518 7151 I bemybagel@gmail.com Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-2pm and 5pm-8.30pm, Sat 10am-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm, Sun 10.30am-2pm

YOI YOI GION 4EIXAMPLE Barcelona’s latest and greatest Japanese restaurant, YOI YOI GION, is a completely authentic udon restaurant from Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto. YOI YOI GION offers delicious handmade, organic noodles in a modern Japanese atmosphere. Dine at very reasonable prices and enjoy ingredients such as kelp, niboshi (small, dried sardines) and katsuobushi (dried, shaved bonito), which are combined for the stock of the noodles, with no chemical additives. ‘

Diagonal 383 | Metro Diagonal Tel. 93 124 8701 | www.facebook.com/yoiyoigionudon Tues-Sat 1.30pm-4pm, 8pm-11pm. Closed Sun & Mon

BLACKLAB BREWERY4 BARCELONETA The newly opened BlackLab Brewery offers customers a new experience in Barcelona––a place where you can come with friends and family, and enjoy a unique pint of craft beer, made just two metres from where you’re sitting. BlackLab’s food is a culinary journey from China all the way to New York. You’ll find dumplings and bahn mi, mussels fresh from the fish market, ramen, cheesecake, portobello mushrooms, and more.

Palau de Mar, Plaça Pau Vila 1, 08039 Tel. 93 22 18 360 hola@blacklab.es www.blacklab.es

EN VILLE RESTAURANT4RAVAL

JAMÓN EXPERIENCE 4 BARRI GÒTIC

Travel through time in one of Barcelona’s most beautiful restaurants. Located in a historic building with vaulted ceilings, En Ville offers a traditional market menu in cosy and warm surroundings. You’ll find a creative blend of Catalan and French cuisines, with a wide range of Spanish tapas, meat and fresh fish on the menu, which is adapted to suit celiacs. On Tuesdays, you can relax to the sounds of live music as you dine.

Come and discover everything you’ve ever wanted to know about jamón ibérico. Enjoy an engaging interactive experience with an audiovisual tour in 8 languages that culminates with a tasting of 6 different kinds of jamones (reserve, ibérico, Guijuelo, Extremadura, Valle de los Pedroches and Huelva) hand cut by a master slicer and paired with a glass of cava, wine or beer. A unique experience you’ll treasure forever! Opens every day from 11.30am to 8pm.

Doctor Dou 14 I Metro Liceu Tel. 93 302 8467 Mon-Sat, from 1pm-Midnight Sun 1pm-4pm info@envillebarcelona.es www.envillebarcelona.es

Rambla de les Flors 88-94 (in front of Mercat Boquería) Tel. 93 002 8474 www.jamonexperience.com

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Indian / Tandoori MALGAM 4EIXAMPLE

SURYA 4EIXAMPLE

Surya Barcelona is an Indian restaurant that invites you to travel all the way to the streets of Mumbai, rich with colour, smell and exotic flavors. They offer a cosy and relaxed place where you feel at home, where you can drink, read a magazine, connect to the Internet, work and try out some of their delicious dishes.

Malgam is located in one of the busiest areas of Barcelona, and offers a varied selection of food, from signature tapas, to traditional, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all made using seasonal produce. The contemporary-style restaurant is divided into three different spaces, adapting to the different needs that result from its long business hours, covering early breakfasts, lunch, a la carte dinners, and a cocktail bar with a DJ on weekends.

After dinner you can relax with cocktails and enjoy their in-house DJs from “The House Party” collective with “Deep Fridays” and Saturday night Funky new disco.

Pau Claris 92 | Tel. 93 667 8760 www.suryabarcelona.com

Aribau 113, 08036 Tel. 93 452 3673 Every day 8am-3pm

TAP DE SURO 4 EIXAMPLE

FONDA ESPAÑA4 BARRI GÒTIC

Tap de Suro is an intimate place dedicated entirely to the world of wine. Here you can experience delicious Mediterranean meals accompanied with their authentic wine collection. They offer a diverse menu of Catalan wines and cavas, ranging from local Spanish grapes to the best international wines. They also provide a sales service in which they can advise you in finding the perfect flavour for every occasion.

Located in the emblematic Hotel España, the Modernist dining room that was originally designed and decorated by Domènech i Montaner, houses Fonda España. Rich in patrimonial interest, the historic elements in this beautiful room inspire and enhance the new elements. Here, Gastronomic Director Martín Berasategui’s aim is to offer his well known culinary concept to diners looking for simple, balanced and delicious dishes that is a tribute to the renowned chef’s origins.

Mediterranean

Sant Pau 9-11 I Metro Liceu Tel. 93 550 0000 Mon-Sat, from 1pm-4pm and 8pm-11pm Sun, from 1pm-4pm, Closed Sun evening.

Mallorca 202, 08008 Tel. 93 461 4853 info@tapdesuro.com

Vegetarian/Vegan LOIDI RESTAURANT4 EIXAMPLE Loidi is a contemporary bistro, in which Martin Berasategui makes his cuisine accessible to everybody. Cuisine prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients and presented with imagination that recalls and pays homage to the celebrated Basque chef’s traditional roots and origins. The menu features various dining options with dishes that change on a weekly basis. The restaurant is a very contemporary, warm and comfortable space frequented by a local and professional clientele. Head chef: Jordi Asensio. Maitre d’: Oscar Fernández. Mallorca 248-250, 08008 Tel. 93 492 9292 Mon-Sat 1pm-3.30pm, 8pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-3.30pm, Closed Sun evening.

MALPASO4EIXAMPLE This recently opened restaurant offers traditional Mexican cuisine. For starters, don’t miss the excellent house nachos, served with cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream, or ‘Vuelve la Vida’, a seafood ceviche with avocado, tomato and lime. Star main dishes include the Arrachera, a grilled US prime hanger steak served with baked vegetables, and the Atún Moctezuma, pan-seared tuna battered in Mexican spices, served with pico de gallo, avocado and mint sauce. Mexican brunch is available at the weekend. Girona 59, 08009 Tel. 93 461 3060 Mon-Thur 8am-12am Fri-Sat 8am-3pm, Sun 9.30am-12am

ZAATAR (VEGETARIAN)4EIXAMPLE Experience delicious, creative vegan and vegetarian dining with the finest, fresh organic ingredients. Zaatar innovates with locally sourced fusion cuisine. The imaginative and healthy menu is complemented by freshly squeezed juices. They are truly passionate about food while maintaining focus on sustainability and conscious living. Lunch menu under €10. Paris 200 | Metro Diagonal | Tel. 654 926 601 | Mon-Sat 12pm-12am

Bar KAIZEN AFTERWORK4POBLE NOU Do you work close to 22@ and feel like relaxing after work? Come to Kaizen Afterwork and enjoy premium cocktails and tasty snacks. Great vibe and great music. Bring this ad and get 15% off a gin and tonic. Castella 1, Tel. 93 676 0761, M. 636 092 221 facebook.com/kaizenafterwork | info@kaizenafterwork.com

NEW &D IN F

HAPPY DAY VEGETARIANO 4 EIXAMPLE Located in the heart of Barcelona, Happy Day invites you to share the experience of enjoying healthy, nutritious and, above all, delicious, food. The ingredients are all fresh, seasonal, organic and sourced locally. The menu was designed by nutritionists and includes salads, rice dishes, crepes, veggie burgers, pasta and vegetable dishes. Try the anti-age, detox, ß – Carotene, and protein elixir natural juices. Go and try for yourself!.

Carrer Pau Claris 143 (Between Valencia and Aragon) Tel. 93 171 7081 www.happydayvegetariano.com/en

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HEALTH &BEAUTY DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

Enric Pintado - DENTIST

Implants & teeth in one day

To advertise in this section call: 93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com

Balmes, 295, 1º 2ª, 08006 T. 93 200 0808 recepciobcn@enricpintado.com www.enricpintado.com

See our online directory at

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

AFTER

Dr. Enric Pintado is a specialist in implant surgery and ﬁxed prosthetics, trained by the Universities of New York, NY and Loma Linda, California. At Dr. Pintado’s dental surgery, the treatment is personalised especially for you. All-on-4 procedures, ﬂapless surgeries, zygomatic implants for low quantity of bone, without bone grafting and healing time. In all of these procedures, teeth are placed in the same day. Just everything, just Pintado! Dr. Enric Pintado, DDS

Iclinic - DENTIST

Dra. Susana Campi - DENTIST

Perfect teeth in just one day. At iClinic Pifarre. No unnecessary damaging teeth. No killing nerves. No anesthesia and all in one session. Cosmetic dentistry and composite veneers give our clients the lovely smile they always dreamed of. iClinic works only with specialists in cosmetic dentistry who have been trained in the most up to date and cutting edge techniques.

New premises, new services and new state of the art equipment! For all your dental needs, a team consisting of their ﬁrst-class professionals can offer you excellent treatment. They have more than 35 years of experience and are pleased to offer you their services in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and Catalan.

Muntaner 66, 08011 T. 93 451 8325 Open Mon-Fri 10am-2pm, 4pm-8pm www.iclinicpifarre.com www.somostusdentistas.com

NEW ADDRESS Josep Tarradellas 97 local, 08029 Metro: L-5 Salida Rocafort/Rosselló Bus: 15,27,32,43,54,59,66,78 T. 93 321 4005 susanacampi1980@gmail.com www.clinicadentalcampi.com

Dr. Alistair Gallagher -

Dr. Boj - DENTIST

DENTIST Dr. Boj and his team offer specialised, comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic treatment for children and teens. Laser dentistry and invisible orthodontics are available. Dr. Boj also lectures about all treatments related to these age groups. He studied at the School of Medicine and Dentistry of the University of Rochester, NY, USA. Fast and friendly service in an English-speaking, international environment.

The British Dental Clinic has a patientfriendly philosophy that combines aesthetics, youthful appearances, and a commitment to total oral health. Conveniently located in Barcelona, they offer orthodontics including Fast Braces and Inman Aligner, implants, cosmetic dentistry, whitening and general family dentistry. Their talented, conscientious and friendly staff will help ensure that you comfortably receive the healthy and beautiful smile that you deserve. Diagonal 281 Metro: Sagrada Família (L5) Monumental (L2) T. 93 265 8070 M. 607 332 335 info@thebritishdentalclinic.com www.thebritishdentalclinic.com

Prats de Mollo 10, bajos B 08021 T. 93 209 3994 www.drboj.org

Orthoestetic - DENTIST

Clínica Ed·dent - DENTIST

The Orthoestetic Clinic is located in the heart of Barcelona near the Sagrada Familia. They have modern clinical facilities and equipment, which together with their dentists experience allows them to offer an integral quality dentistry, designed to seek the satisfaction of the patients. Dr. Holguin is a specialist in orthopedics and orthodontics for children and adults, and dental aesthetics. She is certiﬁed by the Invisalign system.

Platinum Provider

43-45 Health Sept2015.indd 44

Diagonal 341, loc 1. 08037 T. 93 512 4749 M. 638 545 555 Metro: Verdaguer (L4 ,L5) www.orthoestetic.es www.ortoesteticbcn.es info@orthoestetic.es

This husband and wife dentist team from the Gothic Quarter have an important announcement to make to all English-speaking residents with toothaches. Laws in Spain are different for dentists, meaning you need to be careful when choosing a practice. Visit their Facebook page and read their advice; “3 Things You Have To Know Before Going to The Dentist in Spain”. Alternatively, visit them at their centrallylocated clinic where they can offer you help with whatever dental problems you have.

Dental Clinic Gótico

Ample 22, Metro: Barceloneta, Drassanes T. 93 007 5616 M. 651 155 320 Facebook.com/eddentclinicadental

8/25/15 3:24 PM

Doctor for Adults

Mary D. McCarthy, M.D. Fellow American College of Physicians

Mary D. McCarthy - DOCTOR

Doctors Barcelona - DOCTOR

Feel conﬁdent with Dr. Mary McCarthy, an American-trained doctor for adults. A native English speaker with over 20 years’ experience in Barcelona, Dr. McCarthy offers professional, private health care. She is a member of the American College of Physicians and is also certiﬁed as a Specialist by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Also a member of IAMAT.

Is the top medical group in Barcelona. They are committed to provide a ﬁrst-rate level of care and attention. They are experienced, trained and equipped to diagnose and treat most acute or chronic medical problems and injuries. Available 24 hours including weekends and holidays. A 30 minutes arrival time to your destination is guaranteed. Their convenient visit fee is refundable by most insurance companies. All Specialists and best Hospitals available.

NEST - NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS

NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS

T. 689 327 144 info@doctorsbarcelona.com www.doctorsbarcelona.com

Aribau 215 Pral. 1a T. 93 200 2924 M. 607 220 040 Metro Diagonal or FGC Gràcia

The Barcelona Network of English Speaking Therapists (NEST) is a multidisciplinary group of qualiﬁed and practising psychologists, psychiatrists and psychotherapists who live and work in and around Barcelona. NEST members work in the English language and have their roots in training bodies and professional associations based elsewhere. A number of NEST members also work in Catalan, Spanish, Bulgarian, Dutch, German, Italian and Greek. For detailed information, please visit their website.

Jonathan Lane Hooker NEW CITY CENTRE OFFICE

Jonathan Hooker can help if you’re looking for support, guidance or help with any aspect of your life. An English-speaking psychotherapist, counsellor, coach and guide, he is dedicated to helping people make sense of their lives. Jonathan provides one-to-one sessions or workshops for groups of four to 12 people. Metropolitan readers are invited to a free 20-minute introductory meeting.

BEFORE

www.barcelonaNEST.com

FREE CONSULTATION

Hestia - PSYCHOTHERAPY Hestía International Psychotherapy Centre has become a reference in the city, due to its’ high quality multidisciplinary and multilingual proﬁle.Their professional team works with individuals, couples and families through a variety of services and approaches to therapy and personal development. They speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, German, Portuguese, Greek, Polish, Swedish, Russian and Catalan. The ﬁrst consultation is free. Av. Diagonal 343, 2º 3ª Metro: Verdaguer (L5) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es

English Doctor Dr. Steven Joseph - Doctor General Practice Mental Health MB, MRCGP, MRCPsych.

T. 93 590 7654 M. 639 579 646 jonathan.hooker@yahoo.com www.jonathanhooker.com

Dr. Steven Joseph - DOCTOR Established in 2005, Googol Medical Centre offers its patients comprehensive healthcare in a friendly, discreet and relaxed environment. UK doctor Steven Joseph provides a wide range of medical care with access to all medical specialties and tests. Gran Via Carles III nº-37-39 Metro Les Corts Mon-Sat M. 662 291 191 www.englishdoctorbarcelona.com

€15 OFF

Tania Spearman - ACUPUNCTURE Make acupuncture your ﬁrst choice, not your last resort! Acupuncture treats many conditions from pain, stress and depression to infertility and more. English, Spanish and German spoken. Call now to make an appointment and start feeling better. Enric Granados 133, 4-1 bis M. 644 322 161 info@taniaspearman.com www.taniaspearman.com

Sanitas - MEDICAL CENTRES

Living Mindfully - MINDFULNESS COURSES

The Millennium Sanitas Medical Centres are designed to meet your medical needs and those of your family, with experts in a range of specialties. These specialties include:

Do you want to improve your mood, have better relationships, focus, decrease stress and anxiety and ﬁnd long term peace of mind? Learn Mindfulness in central Barcelona. Taught by an English psychotherapist and Mindfulness teacher in the MBSR format.

Massage, physiotherapy, in fresh air bubble massage, indiba, osteopathy, lymphatic drainage, shock waves, pelvic ﬂoor, x-body & personal training, and physiotherapy at your home

Carrer d’Iradier 3, 08017 T. 93 255 4600 atclientemir@sanitas.es

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PSYCHOTHERAPIST

info@livingmindfully.es www.livingmindfully.es

Pharmacy Serra Mandri - CHEMIST The pharmacy is open 365 days a year + home delivery service.The staff can help and advise each client to ensure they get exactly what they need. They also stock a great range of products, including homeopathy, natural medicine, aromatherapy and organic cosmetics. Av. Diagonal 478, T. 93 416 1270 www.farmaciaserra.com Open 9am-10pm

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Family Quiropráctic - CHIROPRACTOR

The Vital Touch - MASSAGE

10% OFF

The Vital Touch Massage clinic helps you relax, energise, re-balance and improve your health and lifestyle with a therapeutic, holistic full-body massage. - Helps relieve tension, reduce stress, detoxify your body and boost your self-esteem. - We also visit ofﬁces and events around Barcelona helping stressed executives to relax and re-energise in their working day.

Your nervous system controls all of the functions in your body. Our role is to remove the interferences to your nervous system that happen in your spine. At Family Quiropractic, our three doctors will take care of you in a natural, drug-free way, because restoring proper nervous function is the ﬁrst step to healing and wellness. If you wish to improve your health to an optimal state, come and visit us at our practice.

Calle Rosselló 395, 08025 T. 93 317 1720 www.familyquiropractic.com

M. 659 995 657 nunu@thevitaltouch.es www.tvtbarcelona.com

Heaven - MASSAGE

La Hair Boutique HAIRDRESSER

• Ready to feel fantastic for spring? • Time to say ‘Adiós’ to muscular tension and stress? • Interested in organic, 100% fresh, products based on Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and European herbal ‘pharmacy’?

Trained by Toni & Guy London, Veronique runs a friendly salon with a dedicated team who speak English, Spanish and French. La Hair Boutique is a relaxed and cosy salon that offers progressive cuts and colours with great style advice too. They are especially talented at creating new, personalised looks using the latest techniques.

Let American-trained massage therapist Carrie Lewis draw on 15 years of experience and training to soothe you with deep therapeutic massage in conveniently located studios or in your home!

FREE REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT WITH ORGANIC PRODUCTS

M. 639 533 523 carrielewisbcn@gmail.com facebook.com/heavenbarcelona www.HeavenlyEco-Boutique.com

15% DISCOUNT

Live the Dream – HEALTH & WELLBEING Look good on the outside, feel good on the inside—let the natural goodness of Forever Living’s organic Aloe Vera work its magic for you. From nutritional drinks, supplements and weight management, to sports performance and anti-ageing, Forever has the product for you. Certiﬁed for purity and guaranteed for quality, the products blend elements from Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine with the latest scientiﬁc advances. Contact them today to purchase or distribute. An independent distributor of Forever Living Products.

FREE GIFT WITH FIRST ORDER

M. 649 052 099 www.LivetheDream.myforever.biz/forever

20% DISCOUNT

Plaça Regomir 5 Metro: Jaume 1 (L4). T. 93 269 1937 M. 699 643 462 www.hairboutiquebarcelona.com

Pilates Las Ramblas - PILATES Doina, a UK trained and qualiﬁed Physiotherapist offers both physiotherapy sessions treating musculoskeletal ailments and classes in Therapeutic and Wellness Pilates to maintain strength and ﬂexibility for wellbeing and injury prevention.Doina has recently added Nordic Walking to her repertoire. Adding a cardiovascular element; Nordic Walking takes Pilates outside! T. 610 712 947 www.pilateslasramblas.com doina@pilateslasramblas.com Harmoniy - OSTEOPATH & PHYSIO Do you have constant pains and live in Eixample? Say goodbye to headaches, back, lower back, neck and shoulder pains, sprains, and contractions with physiotherapy and osteopathic treatments. You can also eliminate insomnia, stress and emotional distress. Get a free foot massage (worth €25) with any treatment. Casanova 79, 1° 2ª T. 93 323 4902 M. 645 676 680 www.harmoniy.com

Pabulum - NUTRITIONAL COACHING

Individual Workshop Dates: July 2nd, 16th & 30th from 7.30pm-10.30pm. €60 per class (includes all food and drinks)

VISIT OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY

*Only 4 seats available per class 100% Vegan & Gluten Free To reserve a seat, contact Mariah at:

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

Summer culinary nutrition workshops. Making healthy food pretty and fun. Learn how to create beautiful and delicious dishes using a whole, fresh and plant-based ingredients with a certiﬁed nutritionist.

mariah@pabulum.com.es

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BUSINESS SERVICES

CALL NOW TO ADVERTISE HERE

93 451 4486

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

To advertise in this section call: 93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com See our online directory at

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

FREE CONSULTATION

INTEGRA ADVISERS - CONSULTANT Legal and business consulting firm that promotes entrepreneurial activity in Spain. Services include; Accounting, tax, financial advice, immigration, national insurance registration and payroll, legal and real estate advice. Aribau 207, Ppal A1, 08021 T. 93 414 6242 M. 615 405 045 info@integra-advisers.com www.integra-advisers.com

Sánchez Molina -

Barcelona Women’s Network - BUSINESS

LEGAL PRACTICE

• Barcelona’s premier network for international women • Over 200 members from 30+ countries. • As a social club that supports local charities and offers a business network, activities include social gatherings, cultural outings, volunteer opportunities, and business seminars. We help women thrive and feel at home in Barcelona.

The lawyers at Sánchez molina speak English, Spanish, Italian and French. They can help with your business licensing services, legal defence and representation, registration under any form of ownership, accounting services and work and residency permits.

Gran Via Carles III, 84, 5 Metro: Maria Cristina (L3) T. 93 490 9669 javiergarcia@sanchezmolina.com www.sanchezmolina.com

Supported charities 2014 - 2016 membership@bcnwomensnetwork.com

president@bcnwomensnetwork.com www.bcnwomensnetwork.com

Mac in Barcelona COmPUTERS Stéphane Clément is an Apple technician and consultant with over fifteen years of experience. Anna Piqué, a native from Barcelona, assists Stéphane with her business and communication background. Their focus is on providing good service and installations with clear communicative skills and personal advice. The aim is to solve your computer troubles and teach you how to improve your daily use of your mac and its various accessories, giving you an opportunity for a more pleasant and safer computer experience. Cami de Mas Roig a Mas Fuster 47 Valldoreix, 08197, M. 608 994 599 info@macinbarcelona.com www.macinbarcelona.com

20% DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

Easi-Sat - TELEVISION SERVICE

GES40 - ENGLISH SPEAKING LAWyERS

Specialists in satellite TV, HD, audiovisual and unmatched for quality and reliability throughout Catalunya for many years. Their professional team provides satellite television from across Europe, including Dutch, French, Italian and Russian, at unbeatable prices. IPTV for Uk terrestrial channels and French tv via internet. (See our website for details). BEIN sports and many more available. Follow them on Facebook-Easisat and Twitter ´@PaulDuval15´.

They are a law firm established in 1986. They aim to provide comprehensive legal counselling to both individuals and companies, in all areas of law. As a team they are highly specialized in a number of different legal areas, with high levels of training, experience and professional strength. They offer a fully personalised service, providing rapid, effective responses without compromising the quality of their service. They also offer their clients a 24-hour online consultation service. Through this online follow-up service, interested parties can access their virtual office to consult the information in their files anytime and from anywhere. “We devote our efforts to provide full support and assistance to conduct any personal or business activity in Spain with confidence”.

Calàbria 267, 3r 1a, 08029, T. 93 217 6414, ges40assessors@ges40.com mruiz@ges40.com www.ges40.com

FRENCH TV NOW AVAILABLE VIA INTERNET

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T. 93 845 9874 M. 649 413 832 enquiries@easisat.net www.easisat.net

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Geo Mac - COmPUTERS

Mrs.Q design studio GRAPHIC DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO

George Cowdery is a freelance mac technician who has been providing valuable support to the mac community in Barcelona for over 15 years. Among the services he offers, George can help clients with maintenance and upgrades, hard drive replacement and ADSL setup. He can also provide consulting and tutorials according to his clients’ needs.

mrs.Q Design Studio offers a range of specialised services.Contact mrs.Q for their competitive business packages which includes branding, stationery design and advertising for print and web. They also design promotional material such as flyers, posters and brochures. They specialises in bespoke invitations. Visit their Etsy page to see examples for their work www.etsy.com/shop/ mrsQdesignstudio.

M. 699 260 938 mrsqdesignstudio@gmail.com www.mrsqdesignstudio.com

M. 606 308 932 machelp@geomac.es www.geomacbcn.com

Fábrica de Flyers - BUSINESS

Gusto Films - FILm

Fábrica de Flyers brings the successful concept of high class printing and design to Barcelona at competitive prices and provides a quality service to match. Eight years of experience on the German market made them one of the leading printing agencies, with clients all over Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Fábrica de Flyers is not an advertisment agency, but the best partner to create your publicity!

Gustofilms is a production company specialising in promotional film. They dedicate themselves to the creation and making of high-quality audiovisual content. They like to innovate, discover and imagine. They love style, down to the smallest detail. Nos gusta gustar.

Pujades 74-80, 3º 7ª, 08005 T. 934 856 422 info@fabricadeﬂyers.com www.fabricadeﬂyers.com

Sant Quinti 47, 4º5ª, 08041 T. 93 007 4408 M. 636 611 029 info@gustoﬁlms.es www.gustoﬁlms.es

ZEST Architecture -

Corsa - DRIVING SCHOOL

ENGLISH SPEAKING ARCHITECTS Corsa driving school in Barcelona offers both theoretical classes and practical driving lessons in English. Their friendly and experienced instructors will give you the confidence to drive comfortably in the city and help you learn everything you need to know about Spanish road systems. They have both manual and automatic practice vehicles. Call now and ask about special metropolitan reader offers!

ZEST is a team of English, Dutch and Catalan architects, specialized in the design and building of high quality homes and offices. Their elegant, innovative house designs are widely published. ZEST takes care of everything from start to finish: - House plans and speciﬁcations, - Building licenses - Overseeing building work and budget - Turnkey projects possible Call now for a FREE consultation T. 93 218 6622 www.zestarchitecture.com

Beethoven 16, Bajos, 08021 T. 93 200 3324 www.corsa.cat/en/courses www.facebook.es/autoescuelacorsa

ARC97SL - OFFICE AND HOmE ImPROVEmENTS

Mykeli - RELOCATION AND

Do you want to build or renovate your office or flat? ARC97 specialise in the design and construction of new works and renovations. They are committed from beginning to end and take care of every detail of each project. They will tailor any project according to your specific needs, style, taste and interests. They guarantee that all work will be completed on time and within budget.

mykeli provide solutions for professionals and individuals by offering tailored prearrival and settling-in services. - Home search (rental and sale) - Visa and permit formalities - Bank account setup - Social security and tax registration - Insurance information - Utilities and supplies hook up - Business creation and relocation - Language and cultural integration Consultation is free.

Media and Marketing Assistant Jo Elizabeth Hardman M. 610 544 614 Pietat 8 baixos, 08002 arc97@arc97.com www.arc97.com

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Ask for the special Metropolitan reader offers

BUSINESS ADVISORy

M. 608 876 472 salah.laribi@mykeli.com www.mykeli.com

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Hostmaker - SERVICES FOR yOUR TOURIST APARTmENT Airbnb management services for the everyday host. Hostmaker can help you with housekeeping services, linen rentals, check-ins, or even with the full management of your tourist flat. Their 5-star hotel trained staff will make your home squeaky-clean. They use top quality linen providers for their bed sheets and towels. Try them and see just how easy hosting can be!

M. 628 132 068 barcelona@hostmaker.co www.hostmaker.co

Spain AccountingTAX & BUSINESS SERVICES Qualified UK accountant with 30 years experience in Spain offers: • tax services for freelance “autónomos” and small SLs • income tax returns for employees and non-residents • practical advice on setting up a business in Spain • registration of “autónomos” and company incorporation (SL) • personalised advice on your tax obligations in Spain • fast, reliable email service Contact David Cook on M.678 702 369 info@spainaccounting.com www.spainaccounting.com

BCN L.I.P. - LANGUAGE SCHOOL BCN LIP language school is a small school located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter offering a wide variety of dynamic classes for those wishing to learn Spanish, Catalan, English, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, Japanese, Chinese and Hebrew. The courses are intensive and extensive, varying from 4 - 30 hours a week, Monday to Saturday. The teachers are qualified native speakers, with several years of experience. They also offer specialised summer programs, excursions and cultural activities for the students. They can also help you with your student visa and finding a place to live.

Avinyó 50, 08002 T. 93 318 6591 info@bcnlip.com www.bcnlip.com

La Luna Shipping -

BCN Seguros - INSURANCE

LOGISTICS

Local Barcelona Insurance Agency providing complete personal and business insurance services. (home, car, health, commercial, public liability, life, motor, yacht, travel, etc.) We offer a 30% cost-saving guarantee by keeping insurance coverage identical! Advice given in Spanish, English and German.

We offer a complete service to efficiently manage any kind of transport. Anywhere in the world, from a overnight courier service, to an airfreight or seafreight shipment to the other side of the world. We are specialist managing personal effects shipments, small “boxed” removals from Barcelona to Europe, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand. Don’t look further, LA LUNA shipping is your one stop shop for your transport and logistics needs in Barcelona. T. 93 220 1715 info@laluna.coop www.laluna.coop facebook.com/ somos.lalunashipping

M. 636 465 010 rainerhobrack@gmail.com www.bcnseguros.es

FELISA COWORK - COWORKING SPACE

Garment Printing - BUSINESS

Felisa CoWork is a welcoming, charming and professional space in the centre of Barcelona. A place to boost your productivity in creative surroundings, among like-minded people. They offer free drinks, organic fruit, energetic breakfasts and back massages. Open 24h. Visit their website for more details on the services they provide. T. 93 539 0588 M. 601 111 292 hola@felisacowork.com www.felisacowork.com

Garment Printing is a printing company based in Barcelona and the UK. They offer printed clothing with personalised logos for fashion brands, staff uniforms and promotional clothing. Printed promotional products, such as flyers, business cards, printed pens, and banners are also available—anything you could want customised with a logo! Whether you’re a business or an individual, we can help you fulfil your branding and printing needs. Contact them today.

Comte d’Urgell 28 T. 93 393 8194 www.garmentprinting.es

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IAN GIBBS - LIFE COACH

FREE CONSULTATION

If you’re feeling a bit dissatisfied with your life, then maybe you should try talking to a life coach. Ian can help you regain control, balance and confidence to get you back on track to success and happiness. You’ve nothing to lose except your current dissatisfaction. Call now to arrange a free 1 hour consultation M. 605 801 802 ian.coaching@gmail.com www.iangibbs.es

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COACHING COLUMN

JOB

DIRECTORY To advertise in this section call: 93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com We also have a new job section on our FREE CLASSIFIEDS

www.classifieds.barcelona-metropolitan.com

SAM SAYS... Sam Mednick is a professional Life and Executive Coach based in Barcelona (www.blueprintcoaching.ca). A Canadian native, she’s been living in the city for eight years working with companies as well as individuals, focusing on transitions, communication, leadership training, time management and productivity, as well as emotional intelligence development.

THIS MONTH: OVERCOMING LIVING IN LIMBO Dear Sam, My parents recently called from England asking me to clear out my stuff from their house as they’re downsizing and it’s forced me to really think about where ‘home’ is. It’s been more than ﬁve years since I moved here from Brighton, yet I still feel like I’m living one foot in, one foot out. I can’t seem to fully commit to Barcelona. How can I make this city feel more like home? Sincerely, Limbo

Hi Limbo, I had a guest on my radio show a few months back who said that it took her 22 years to feel like she was living here with ‘two feet in’. This is a tough cookie to crack and, for some people, where ‘home’ is never entirely changes. Barcelona by nature is a ‘non-committal’ city. People show up, much of the time escaping the past, trying to reinvent their futures or simply wanting to go with the flow. What ends up happening is a perma-state of limbo. Before figuring out how to devote yourself to this city, I think the real question for you to answer is: Is Barcelona where you really want to be? It’s hard to fully commit yourself to a place if you’re not sure it’s right for you. The second question to consider is: What does fully committing look like to you? For some it’s shutting the door entirely on where they’re from, marrying a Catalan and buying property. For others it’s not so black and white. Not only has globalisation made travelling, living and working all over the world that much easier, it’s also forced us to re-evaluate how we live in a city. For some people, even though they call Barcelona home, they only live here part of the year and elsewhere for the rest of the time working remotely, yet they still feel like they’re fully invested. What it comes down to is the decision to call Barcelona home. No matter how you decide to live in it, you have to remind yourself of what brought you here in the first place and question if those reasons still ring true. Once you’re certain that this is the place you want to be, then here are a few practical tips to help change your mindset: Start calling Barcelona home: When I moved here eight years ago, I purposely made a point of referring to this city as my home. What happened is that I had a shift in mentality and from the very beginning I truly believed I lived here. Deal with your ‘stuff ’: Most of us didn’t bring everything we own plus the kitchen sink over when we landed. Going through your belongings in your country of origin, deciding what to take with you, what to throw out and what to store can be incredibly cathartic and also help to organise your life and the direction you want to take. Make it homey: Whether it’s stocking up on a supply of English Cheddar Cheese, Vimto, Vegemite or raiding the American Store, you can still enjoy some home comforts and infuse a slice of your ‘past life’ into your daily routine here. To share your thoughts on this column or ask Sam a question email sam@blueprintcoaching.ca, or write to Metropolitan at editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com

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INTERVIEW

Angel Jané

40, MARS ONE CANDIDATE, BARCELONA bit, with new people and materials arriving every two years. Technology is essential, of course, but Mars has the natural resources needed to create living conditions. I am not ruling out a return to Earth. I understand that this initial journey is a one-way ticket, but it’s just a question of being able to fabricate fuel once on Mars, and that’s easy! The technology exists. Money is the only reason we are not already on Mars. The moment will arrive, maybe 40 years from now, when the colony will be self-sufficient and won’t need anything from Earth. It will have its own plants and construction methods. But, of course, life will exist inside a dome. The mission will raise all sorts of fundamental ethical and moral debates. My hope is that through raising these issues and striving to create a perfect society, people will have the courage to change things on Earth too. Many concepts and ideologies will be shaken up. We are a society in decline, enslaved by work and money, and we need to do something to open our eyes. If I could take one song, it would be ‘Rocketman’. One book, The Mars Trilogy by Kim Stanley Robinson. Before I leave Earth, I would like to travel, to see everything. Maybe I would like to have another child, although I would have to do it soon. And I would like to learn about archaeology—I think it is the key to a lot of secrets. The chosen 24 will become known across the world. A documentary-style reality TV programme is under discussion. Becoming a celebrity is not my objective, I see it as collateral damage. But it will present the unique opportunity to project a message. I have always felt that I was put on this earth to do something special and I want this adventure to inspire young people to follow their dreams, no matter what. If we are capable of going to Mars, then anybody can achieve their dream. Angel is currently writing a book, ‘Rumbo a Marte’, that looks at all the dilemmas and issues that the mission to Mars raises.

By Ben Rowdon

SCOOP

I’ve always been a bit different. I always wanted to fly, and as soon as I was old enough I took flying lessons. Whenever I can, I do parachute jumps. But it has never been enough. I’ve always had the curiosity to travel into space and see the Earth from another perspective, where there are no borders, just sea and land. It’s something spiritual. When I heard about the Mars One mission, I didn’t have to think twice. I signed up straight away, although I didn’t think that I had a real chance of being selected from over 200,000 applicants. Since then I have passed each stage, step-by-step, and it is now down to the final 100 candidates. 24 will embark on the one-way journey to Mars in 2026 with the objective of establishing a permanent human settlement there. My family are not surprised by my decision. At the beginning it was all a big joke, but as I progressed through the stages, people started to take it more seriously. I have their full support, although if that day comes, it will, of course, be very difficult. I’ll miss the simple things— the wind on my face, the mountains, the sea, flora and fauna. And my daughter, of course. I will miss her the most. She is six years old and she’s very bright. By 2026, she will be almost 18, and I hope to give her the freedom to dream and develop her own ideas and independence. It doesn’t matter if I am on Earth, or on another planet, my love for my daughter will remain the same. But it is a long way off and it is all still hypothetical. If I had had to go now, I wouldn’t have signed up. It will be the start of a new era for me. My destiny. The chosen 24—12 women and 12 men from all walks of life— will spend the next decade studying. They will become trained doctors, engineers, biologists and astronauts. And they’ll be paid to do it. So even if the mission never leaves earth, I will have a pretty good CV! Mars holds a lot of secrets. We will be there to investigate, look for life and create a new society, a perfect society. I think it is an essential next step for our survival as a species, not to mention scientific and philosophical reasonings. The human settlement will begin with 24, and will grow bit by

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