Barcelona Metropolitan May 2014

MAY 2014 Nยบ 208 Free

The air we breathe Just how polluted is Barcelona?

FREECYCLING Giving it all away

Living room concerts Live music in intimate venues

Another league 22 years of football with the BIFL

Pullout Calendar

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GIRONA FLOWER FESTIVAL

Volunteering

PERFORMING ARTS

Restaurant Reviews

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MAY 2014

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

What’s on 20 22 24 26

Publisher Creative Media Group, S.L. Managing Director Andrea Moreno Editor Esther Jones

Music Art Best of the Rest Pullout May Calendar

Assistant Editor Daniel Whitehead Art Director Aisling Callinan

Features

Account Executives Jalil Alui, Richard Cardwell, Adriana Soto

13 Showtime

Sales Assistant Martijn Bronder

The city’s international performing arts scene is thriving.

Editorial Assistants Amanda Astramowicz, Francesca Raquet

14 REPORT: How polluted is Barcelona?

Contributors Miquel Hudin, Ryan Hughes, Carol Moran, Tori Sparks, Tara Stevens, Nicola Thornton, Daniel Whitehead

Nicola Thornton looks at the state of the city’s air and what is being done about it.

Cover image Lee Woolcock

28 Living room concerts

Photographers Aimee McLachlan, Lee Woolcock Illustrator Ben Rowdon

SoFar sounds are bringing music to the home.

Editorial: editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Advertising: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com General: info@barcelona-metropolitan.com.

Freecycle Barcelona is helping to keep the good stuff out of landfills.

30 Free ‘n’ easy

33 Another league

The BIFL has been providing football and a support network for 22 years.

Carrer de la Ciutat 7 2ª-4ª, 08002 Barcelona.

Tel. 93 451 4486

Directories

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com 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.

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Food & Drink Business Shopping Jobs

contributors

Depósito legal: B35159-96

NICOLA THORNTON

RYAN HUGHES

francesca raquet

A need to spread her wings after living a sheltered life in Brighton brought Nicola to Barcelona 12 years ago. The original plan to stay for six months was soon thwarted, and after three leaving parties, she decided to put down roots here.

A professional journalist, Nicola has written for many newspapers and magazines in the UK and Spain and loves finding interesting people for the ‘Interview’ page. She shares her passion for writing by running a popular creative writing course.

Ryan grew up in Glasgow, Scotland. He studied accountancy and finance there, and dabbled with writing for the university newspaper. He initially moved to Barcelona in March 2012, and teaches English to business clients. He has played football all his life, with sports being one of his biggest passions. Living in Barcelona has reignited his love of writing, and will hopefully see him complete an unfinished first novel that’s been more than two years in the making.

Francesca is a Hispanic Studies student from King’s College London who came to Barcelona last September as part of her Erasmus year abroad. She is enjoying improving her Spanish as well as learning a little Catalan in the warm weather and the thought of returning to cloudier pastures in August saddens her. A self-confessed foodie, she likes reading about and trying new restaurants around the city, Instagramming along the way.

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06 IN THE CITY

NEW in town

OUR ROUNDUP OF WHAT’S NEW IN BARCELONA

absolutely barking

If you feel like the daily walk isn’t quite cutting the mustard for your four-legged companion, this newlyopened space in the Eixample may be what you’ve both been waiting for. Barkcelona is the city’s first social club for pets and their owners, uniting people with a shared passion in an animal-friendly environment.

As well as organising group walks and specialised workshops, the space boasts top-branded fashion and accessories, a fully-equipped wash and cut facility and spacious play centre. The idea may strike some as barking mad, but it’s sure to delight your pet.

Barkcelona Aribau 43 www.facebook.com/barkcelonadogsocialclub

home brewed

Give your taste buds a break from Moritz or Estrella: Barcelona has a new contender on the city’s craft beer scene. Understatedly cool, Celler de Ceres in the Born pays no attention to detail, simply offering 12 international beer taps and many other bottled specials—perfect for washing down some of their homemade culinary delights.

Celler de Ceres Vigatans 13 www.cellerceres.com

film talk

The Filmoteca is an emblematic fixture of the Raval, and March this year saw the opening of its newest installation, a bar/restaurant suitably named ‘La Monroe’. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, this groovy space is just what the Filmoteca was lacking—a meeting point for the city’s film lovers. The menu is simple yet creative, and has plenty to offer in the drinks department. It’s certainly not the place to go for a slapup meal, but offers a great atmosphere, ideal for some post-movie discussion.

La Monroe Pl. Salvador Seguí 1-9 www.lamonroe.es

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IN THE CITY 07

made in bcn

Concept stores seem to be popping up all over the place these days and the latest arrival is OMG BCN in the Born. Creators Iu Bartolomé and Estela Portalés started the project following a brief trip to New York, and offer an eclectic array of fashion, jewellery and home furnishings, all designed and made in Barcelona.

From simple BCN mugs to funky faux taxidermy, this place is a must if you’re looking to bring a bit of the Ciutat Comtal into your home.

OMG BCN Plaça de la Llana 7 www.omgbcn.com

approved!

Some of you may remember its former incarnation— Tintoria Dontell—the lavish restaurant concealed behind the façade of a small launderette. The concept was quirky and never failed to surprise unsuspecting punters, however the prices were startlingly high and booking required inside approval. That space now hosts Accés, an equally lavish restaurant without the pretence of its predecessor. The menu offers a varied selection of excellent dishes, and finally at a reasonable price. Furnished in garish purple with an open kitchen, there is certainly nothing to hide in this new addition to the Eixample.

Accés Aribau 55 www.acces-bcn.com

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08 IN THE CITY

the informer Foreign investment in Catalunya rose by 31.5% between 2012 and 2013. Of the 124 projects funded by foreign investment in Barcelona, the majority came from Germany and the US, followed by France, the UK and Japan.

‘As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.’

-Audrey Hepburn

REACH

OUT

Catalunya was the fourth highest autonomous community in terms of GDP in 2013. It followed the Basque Country, Madrid and Navarra.

L

ast year, on December 5th—International Volunteer Day—Barcelona was named European Volunteering Capital for 2014, in recognition of the city’s dynamic non-profit sector and the high level of involvement in volunteering by its residents.

A homeless man has been absolved of 70 fines that he was dealt by the Guardia Urbana between 2008 and 2010. The fines totalled 7,500 euros and were for various acts of ‘incivisme’, such as drinking alcohol in a public place and leaving litter.

Barcelona won’t be marking the tenth anniversary of the cultural Forum which took place in May 2004. Staged to be a dialogue between cultures, it was widely criticised for the amount of public money that was invested in the project.

The Barcelona Banc de Sang held a huge drive for blood donors in April. Anyone interested in giving blood should go to www.donarsang.gencat.cat for details on how to go about it.

Works on Paral.lel start this month. They are expected to last 10 months and cost 9.5 million euros. The bicycle lane will be moved from the side of the road to the centre, where it will have protection on either side.

Barcelona airport receives 28% of all the low cost flights to Spain.

The figure has risen nearly 8% since the end of 2013, a sign of Barcelona’s never-ending popularity as a tourist destination.

Barcelona has a ‘Flower Plan’ for Ciutat Vella. Under the pilot Plan de Flores scheme which will be tried out next spring, anyone will be allowed to put flower pots on the pavement to decorate around their home or establishment.

This year, the city’s gardeners are planting 43,500 flowers and plants to cheer up the city.

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We’ve put together a list of places that are always in need of a helping hand.

HACESFALTA.ORG This website acts as a portal for volunteer groups and makes getting involved easy. Through the site you can access positions in volunteer work all over Spain. The variety of skills needed is huge; from translators, sports teachers, painters and community managers to videographers, graphic designers and people who can just keep someone company awhile. The volunteer groups that advertise here are just as diverse, including large organisations such as Médicos sin Fronteras, and smaller local groups and day centres that help children, elderly people and people with mental and physical disabiltiies. www.hacesfalta.org

ARRELS FUNDACIÓ This organisation’s main objective is to raise public awareness about homelessness. Since 1987 they have supported more than 8,000 people on the streets, helping them to get back on their feet by providing accommodation and food, as well as health and social care. There are a number of ways to volunteer. You can join the team that goes out on the street, help out in the day centre, visit people who have been rehoused or are in hospital, take part in the workshops, or give a hand maintaining the day centre. www.arrelsfundacio.org

ESPERANÇA This is a local group of volunteers organised by Julie Stephenson and Julia Fossi from Liverpool. Every week they hand out food, clothing and a bit of

METROPOLITAN PEOPLE MARTIJN BRONDER

Sales Assistant, Netherlands A: Obviously the sun and temperature. The city becomes alive again with full terraces and happy people enjoying the weather. It’s also great to go running all over the city before the really hot July and August weather kicks in and becomes a no-go.

kindess to the homeless on the streets of Barcelona. They are always looking for help in providing and preparing food, as well as collecting items of clothing such as socks, hats, gloves, scarves and blankets. They currently make rounds in the city centre on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday evenings between 8.30pm and 10.45pm, with a minimum of three volunteers each night. There is also a central point of collection for anybody who wants to drop off clothing or food. Visit their Facebook page for more information. www.facebook.com/groups/esperancabcn

PROTECTORABCN This nonprofit association’s main objective is to help animals who have been abused or neglected—mainly dogs and cats—housing them in a shelter for as long as necessary until they are found a home. Volunteers are needed for cat care and dog-walking. If you don’t have time but would like to help out, you can also sponsor an animal. www.protectorabcn.es

EL JARDINET DELS GATS This project was started in 2005 in collaboration with the district of Ciutat Vella and functions with a team of volunteers who take care of abandoned and stray cats through various tasks such as cleaning the space, feeding, and playtime.

It is located just off Las Ramblas in an open garden space. There are many ways you can become a volunteer. www.eljardinetdelsgats.org

WE ASKED SOME OF THE METROPOLITAN TEAM WHAT THEIR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT SPRING IN BARCELONA IS.

AISLING CALLINAN

Graphic Designer, Ireland A: The change in season means a change in wardrobe. The shops are full of bright colours and Barcelona’s streets are a constant source of fresh inspiration for any fashionista.

Warm weather, a cold beer in the plaça and an afternoon of peoplewatching make spring in Barcelona a very enjoyable place to be.

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oking thing

tween ere is ng or

een or as r cat ou can

Vella stray time. ny

IN THE CITY 09

RECIPE CHOCOLATE CHUNKY MUFFINS Prep time: 10 mins Cook time: 20 mins Total time: 30 mins Serves: 12

INGREDIENTS • 120g unsalted butter at room temperature • 110g bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped, divided • 270g all-purpose flour • 170g granulated sugar • 40g unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted • 1 tablespoon baking powder • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon salt • 300ml buttermilk (or beaten yoghurt) • 1 egg • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 190ºC. Line a muffin/cupcake tin with paper muffin cups. Place the muffin pan on a baking sheet.

2. Melt the butter and half the chopped chocolate together in a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Remove from the heat.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

4. In a large glass measuring cup or another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg and vanilla extract together until well combined.

5. Pour the liquid ingredients and the melted butter and chocolate over the dry ingredients and, with the whisk or a rubber spatula, gently but quickly stir to blend. Do not overmix the batter. Stir in the remaining chopped chocolate.

6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.

7. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until a thin knife inserted into the centre of the muffins comes out clean. Transfer the pan to a rack and cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing each muffin from its mold.

Anjalina Chugani was born in London but moved to Bangalore in India when she was 15; since 2000, she has been living in Barcelona where she works as an English teacher. A self-taught cook, she held Social Suppers in the meeatings23 space, and has a blog for recipes and food photography, www.rainbowspoon.com. rainbowspoonfood@gmail.com

DANIEL WHITEHEAD

Editorial Assistant, UK A: Spring is my favourite season, wherever I am in the world. I’m a big fan of my duvet, and May is probably the last month I actually have use for it—I’ll be savouring these next few weeks. Spring in Barcelona means a slower commute to work down La Rambla due to tourists, yet you just can’t beat that happy vibe the city oozes from now through to August.

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ANDREA MORENO

Managing Director, Colombia A: Spending the weekend in Parc de la Ciutadella with plenty of friends and lots of food and drink. Those picnics always last all day and are so much fun. I’m certainly looking forward to that.

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The main living space contains many impeccably preserved original features.

10 A PLACE OF MY OWN

The ga art stu light a with s artefa

Good enough for

Almodóvar Spectacular AND MAJESTIC, this apartment has been featured in Oscar-winning MOVIES, YET FOR ONE FAMILY IT’S JUST HOME.

S

tanding on Plaça de Lesseps which once marked the border between Gràcia and the city, is the Casa Ramos—one of Barcelona’s best kept secrets. Built in 1907 by architect Jaume Torres i Grau, the principal apartment was once home to the Ramos family, who later moved to Mallorca at the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War. These days it’s home to Sean Carbonell-Hogg and his family, who have lived in the apartment since Sean was twelve years old. His mother is Scottish and his father, Catalan, and they are a close knit family of architects who treasure the sumptuous space they call their home.

Spread over 600 square metres of indoor living space, and over 700 square metres of gardens, every exposed surface is abundant in modernista details. Sean is quick to mention that no structural restoration or refurbishment has been carried out, and the excellent state of the original features is down to good, vigorous cleaning. There are two sides to the apartment. One side is based around a dining room, where the rooms follow on from one another, whereas the other half has a more traditional corridor-style layout. Some rooms are floor to ceiling with intricate tiling, others with decorative silk motifs, all of which are original and have been beautifully preserved and maintained over the years. The furniture is an eclectic mix of antique, ornate pieces, and some unique family creations, like dining chairs upholstered in cling

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film—Sean made these over three years ago and to this day they still serve their purpose. Sean describes his family as very sociable, and they host regular parties in the house and gardens. “It never fails to impress people when they walk in,” Sean says. “Last year we had an Arabic party in the Moroccan room. The guests are still asking when the next one will be.”

Sean laughs whilst discussing the spaciousness of the apartment. “It’s crazy, I remember when we needed lamps to brighten up the rooms. We knew we needed quite a few so my father went out and bought 20. That was clearly not enough to light the whole place. I think my father eventually counted a total of 106 lamps”.

Famous amongst family and friends, the house has also been the setting for many movies including Almodóvar’s Academy Award-winning Todo sobre mi madre, as the family home of Penélope Cruz’s character.

There’s certainly nothing ordinary about this house, and it exemplifies the best of modernista architecture that this city is famous for. Yet, regardless of the intricate tiling, the Arabic arches and palatial details, you will be surprised to discover a couple of cats and a tortoise pottering in the garden, reminding us that it’s a family home.

Parts of the apartment are also available for booking at www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/959089

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The gallery which is used as an art studio and sitting room, is light and airy, and brimming with small collections of artefacts.

Definitely one of the rooms with the ‘wow-factor’. Sean and family are know to host Arab-themed parties in this spectacular Moroccan-style living space.

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CULTURE 13

TakE to the

stage “It’s an exciting and enriching experience, and a fantastic way to de-stress and mentally unwind,” says Ed Aldcroft. Ed founded the Barcelona English Choir in 2012, which now boasts over 80 members of all ages and nationalities. It’s one of the many groups on offer to those wishing to get involved with the city’s arguably latent performing arts scene.

Singing, like exercise, releases endorphines (the chemical that makes us happy), and recent studies suggest that choral singing in particular has been proven to boost mental health, in some cases even more so than competitive team sports.

Michael Manning, a regular of a Catalan choir in the city comments, “to be honest, I also play rugby but I get a bigger kick from my choir sessions. I think it’s down to being a part of a cohesive social team—a team without the rivalry.”

Back in the day, some of us wouldn’t have been seen dead in a choir, but since the rise of Glee, the Songs of Praise connotations have faded and the modern choir is now so cool that even the boys are signing up.

The Barcelona English Choir is just that—cool. A happy, energetic group of people from all walks of life, there for their love of singing and, of course, to have fun. They sound great. One of their regular singers comments, “I think to begin with I was obviously daunted by the whole idea, and begged

Barcelona has plenty to offer to those who want to get in touch with their inner performer.

a friend to come along with me. They couldn’t make it so I went alone. I don’t think I’ve missed a session since. The hardest part is turning up to the first one.”

And the city’s scene doesn’t just cater to singers.

Actors, musicians, even aspiring comedians have a place to go. The BIG (Barcelona Improv Group) started a few years ago and consists of an active and enthusiastic bunch of naturally witty people.

They offer everything from comedy workshops, to improv jam sessions, and hold regular shows open to the public, never failing to entertain their ever-growing audience. Since last year Barcelona has seen a dramatic decline in comedy shows due to budget issues, and it’s becoming increasingly more difficult to find standup in English in the city. BIG are a great alternative to fill that void.

For more information about other groups, the Meetup website is a great source to find anything from Salsa classes to international poetry readings.

Whether you were born with natural stage presence, or just want to have a good sing, individuals across Barcelona are meeting people with shared passions, and having a great time along the way.

Check out our list for some of the city’s leading performance groups for English speakers.

The English Theatre Group of Barcelona (ETGB) Started in October 2013, this theatre group is aimed at English speakers of all ages who want to learn more about acting, voice, stage movement, public speaking and script interpretation. Every term ends with a student showcase, with further opportunity to audition for their full-scale productions twice a year. Classes run weekly on Wednesdays in the Iroom, Carrer Topazi 21, from 7-10pm and cost€€10 per class. For information: englishtheatregroupbarcelona@gmail.com

The Barcelona English Choir Covering everything from pop and rock, to blues, world music, folk and traditional songs, this large, international group is open to everyone and anyone with a passion for singing. They host annual summer concerts in June and also perform the occasional flashmob. Fronted by singing coach Ed, they hold two regular weekly sessions: Mondays in the Mercat de Santa Caterina from 7pm to 9pm, and Tuesdays in St. George’s Church near Plaça Bonanova from 8pm to 10pm. They also offer sessions for English teachers (due to awkward timetables) on Fridays at the Libreria Proleg, Sant Pere Més Alt 46. 10.30am12.30pm. Cost is€€20 per month.

For information: barcelonaenglishchoir@gmail.com

Barcelona Improv Group (BIG) ‘BIG’ are a group of international, comedy performers that have made quite an impact on the city’s English speaking comedy scene. They provide free improv workshops on Sunday afternoons from 5pm to 7pm at the Teatre L’Enjolit, Carrer Portal Nou 30. In addition they also offer classes and monthly improv jams—check their facebook page for updates.

For more information: www.barcelonaimprovgroup.com www.facebook/barcelonaimprovgroup

Jocular Theatre Providing the city with top quality theatre for over a “Joining the Improv group has done wonders for me. Not only has it given me an artistic outlet to have fun and be funny, but it’s where I’ve met most of my friends here. Through this group I’ve learned artistic ventures and been exposed to insights from locals and guiris about what to do in Barcelona.”

Noah Levin, Barcelona Improv Group

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“A lot of our group members particularly enjoy the huge sense of achievement they feel when we perform around Barcelona. It’s a great way to have fun, meet new people from all over the world and to enjoy yourself, singing a wide variety of repertoire.”

Ed Aldcroft, The Barcelona English Choir

decade, the Jocular Theatre produces two full-length performances each year. Auditions are held at the end of summer for their autumn/winter production, and in the new year for the spring/summer. The generally rehearse over the weekend and are always looking for new talent.

For more information: www.joculartheatre.com admin@joculartheatre.com

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FEATURE

Breathing life into the city How clean is the city's air? And, more importantly, what's being done to improve it? Text by Nicola Thornton. Photos by Lee Woolcock.

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FEATURE 15

I

t comes to something when you opt to live in a Mediterranean city for A Better Life, only to discover that on certain days, when the wind is low and the traffic is busy, a smog of pollutants can make you cough for England (or from whence you came). Add in THOSE trees that make you sneeze every spring, dust shed from 1.6 million inhabitants, their pets, businesses and never-ending street 'works', impatient lines of motos, cars, buses, lorries and planes, Saharan sand and you have the perfect conditions for a pair of dodgy lungs. Just as well the indoor smoking ban came in when it did or who knows where we’d be?

Of course, it isn’t funny. As EU environment commissioner Janus Potocnik has pointed out, poor air quality is the number one environmental cause of premature death in the EU, ahead of road traffic accidents. "It is an invisible killer and it prevents many people from living a fully active life. It already costs Europe €330 billion-€940 billion a year in extra health costs and prematurely kills more than 100,000 people a year," he said last year.

And as if that isn’t hard enough to swallow, the World Health Organisation recently announced that air pollution caused one in eight deaths in 2012 and is now officially a carcinogen, responsible for heart disease, strokes and lung and even bladder cancer.

“The risks from air pollution are now far greater than previously thought or understood, particularly for heart disease and strokes,” Dr Maria Neira, Director of WHO’s Department for Public Health, Environmental and Social Determinants of Health announced in March. “Few risks have a greater impact on global health today than air pollution; the evidence signals the need for concerted action to clean up the air we all breathe.”

Although Spain is not officially one of Europe’s biggest pollution culprits— the French and English capitals are worse—there is still work to do. A report based on figures collected in 2012 by environmental agency Ecologists In Action said that 94 percent of Spaniards were breathing air that exceeded the safe pollution levels recommended by the WHO, while 22 percent—some 10.4 million people—were breathing air that exceeded European legal pollution limits.

In Barcelona, the principal offenders are nitrogen oxide (from traffic fumes) and the PM10 (particles with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres). EU legislation allows for PM10 particles in the atmosphere to surpass 40 micrometers for 35 days a year, Barcelona exceeded the limit in Sant Gervasi/Gracia, Port Vell and Sants. In December, levels of nitrogen oxide rose above EU limits no less than seven times.

The official good news from the Generalitat at that time was that "exceptional levels" do not threaten people's health, and it is only prolonged exposure that we need to worry about. And the authorities are taking it seriously. When in 2010, Europe told its members (again) they needed to lower the rates of pollutants in the atmosphere by 2015, the Generalitat made a strategic plan, and the Ajuntament of Barcelona set about implementing it.

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FEATURE

“The challenge we face is that there are almost two million people living in a space no bigger than 100 kilometres squared and it doesn't rain that often.”

Joan Puigdollers i Fargas, city councillor for the environment.

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"The challenge we face is that there are almost two million people living in a space no bigger than 100 kilometres squared and it doesn’t rain that often,” says Joan Puigdollers i Fargas, Barcelona city councillor for the environment and urban services. “We also have a lot of tourism and commercial traffic.”

On top of that, the buildings are high-rise, which means pollutants have a hard time dispersing.

Since the heavy industry drifted away, diesel fumes have become the main scourge on air quality. They are, in fact, responsible for 80 percent of the NO levels, and 92 percent of PM10. Air quality surveillance stations spread around the city show levels peak around rush hour, although in general it is coming down.

An efficient metro system, more natural gas-run buses, the ever-improving Bicing network and high parking costs have all done much to bring pollution levels down, but new initiatives are being rolled out to lower emissions even more.

“Two years ago, we began changing the bus network, adding lines that would be more direct, thereby reducing the number of buses on the road,” Puigdollers said. “There are now 17 vertical lines running from the sea to the mountain, eight horizontal lines, running from Llobregat to Besòs, and three diagonal lines. In the coming years, we will increase the number of buses running on clean natural gas by up to 40 percent, and make the rest either diesel hybrids or latest-generation diesel.”

Taxis, which travel the most kilometres in Barcelona, are also being targeted, and there are incentives for drivers to replace older diesel cars with cleaner fuels. There is also a Generalitat-driven strategy under way—the "LIVE Plug in to Barcelona" initiative—to integrate electric vehicles into the city, with a target of 76,000 vehicles by 2015.

A network of recharging points is being built in 60 municipalities throughout Catalunya both in underground public car-parks and on the street for ease of access. Last year Nissan began producing the first 100 percent-electric car for the European market at its plant in Barcelona

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GUIRI BUSINESS DRINK NETWORKING MAY 2014 Free Drink & Tapas

21st May For more information and to RSVP please visit www.GuiriBusiness.com

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Guiri Business Group is a LinkedIn community of 6000 + members designed to facilitate professional networking through the exchange of information, knowledge, contacts, jobs and opportunities.

Entrance is free for Guiri Business LinkedIn members and an RSVP is required to attend.

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FEATURE

>>

A City Dweller’s Guide to Reducing Air Pollution.

Car and moto-sharing schemes are also taking off as the environmentally friendly message gains ground. The Ajuntament-initiated Motit scheme, for example, allows registered users to pick up a zero-emission electric motorbike and travel from A-to-B for a quarterly fee of just €11. The company Avancar has a fleet of around 130 small cars and vans in various car-parks around the city available for hire at €6 an hour or €50 a month, while Social Car puts car-owners and car-needers in touch with each other.

“Traffic coming into the city has reduced considerably in the last few years—by 12.3 percent since 2007, which could be down to the reduction in economic activity and the increase in petrol prices," Puigdollers said. "Traffic inside the city has, however, fallen by 6.7 percent."

Barcelona Port—the busiest port in the Mediterranean—has also received its clean-up orders. According to Ajuntament figures from 2011, there were 19,760 lorry trips to the Port EVERY DAY, 25 percent of which were container transport, but the port now runs almost all of its container fleet on natural gas.

Trees, of course, as well as making some people sneeze, play a key role in off-setting emissions. While London has its royal parks and the odd heath to help inhabitants escape the fumes (even though they don’t always as recent smog reports on the British capital confirm*), studies show that in one year, Barcelona’s trees can eliminate 305 tonnes of atmospheric pollutants—the challenge being, of course, that there just aren’t enough green spaces.

Although the council points to the Collserola as one of the best examples there is of a national park within a city, the fact that it is not actually situated in the city means its effect on counteracting pollution is minimal. The council does however take tree planting and maintenance seriously, with numerous tree-lined roads supporting the surely unsustainable work being done by the tree collective in the Parc de la Ciutadella.

Just a walk around the city lets you know the environment is important to the City Council. Some days it seems there is an almost obsessive-complusive need to upgrade and renew. Air quality is being tackled, but, there also needs to be shift in public attitude away from car-use.

"My department is responsible for 15.3 percent of the City Council's total budget and we invest a lot," Puigdollars says. "Barcelona is known for its innovation and we are constantly improving."

When the outcomes of the plan are assessed next year, it will be interesting to see how far initiatives have gone in cleaning up the air. For now, on those still-air days when the smell of fumes is particularly bad and the spluttering, from both cars and people, at its peak, the best we can do is remember it won't last. And pray for rain.

1) Leave the car at home more often With the metro, Bicing and bus networks, owning a car does seem more and more like a false economy in the city.

Plan the quickest routes using the www.TMB.es routeplanner. If you have a Smartphone, download apps that will tell you where the Bicings are or how long the next bus will be.

Public transport is safer, cheaper and quicker, and you can read on the move.

2) Keep the car in good condition If you do drive, get regular tune-ups for your car. Use an energy-conserving oil. Fill up early in the morning, or later in the evening when it is cooler, to avoid gas evaporating in the heat. Inflate car tyres to the recommended pressure to reduce fuel use.

3) Use a car or moto-sharing scheme If you can't imagine living without a vehicle, then how about combining public transport with a vehicle-sharing scheme.

Avancar: www.avancar.es SocialCar: www.socialcar.com Motit: www.motitworld.com 4) Buy locally sourced products as much as possible.

The '0km' logo on fruit and veg means it hasn’t had to travel across Spain and Europe in big polluting lorries, or fly and sail across the oceans to get here. Whether it's meat, fish, homeware or clothes, buy from local shops and markets as often as you can.

5) Go for less packaging Plastic, foil and cardboard are bad for the air, even if you recycle! Take your own reusable bag to the shops to avoid carriers, and try and buy fresh more of the time.

* Air pollution levels reached the maximum 10 last month, result of inland pollution and powerful dust storms swept in from the Sahara by strong gales, according to the Met Office.

50

6) Use greener products around the house Many smog-causing particles are given off by the chemicals in paints and cleaning products, so choose environmentally friendlier ones wherever possible.

WhAT's

48.2%

polluting

B a r c e l o na ?

40

Nitrogen Oxide emissions in 2011

29.5%

30 20

14-18. Reportpdf.indd 6

The organisation Soot Free Cities ranked 17 European cities according to the efforts being made to reduce pollution.

Each city was awarded an overall score based on nine categories of measures to reduce soot emissions, from promoting walking, to improving public transport and banning high emission vehicles.

Source: Soot Free Cities European Ranking 2011 B (84%) Berlin

D (62%) Paris

B- (82%) Copenhagen

F (58%) Brussels

B- (82%) Stockholm

F (58%) London

B- (80%) Vienna

F (58%) Madrid

B- (80%) Zurich

F (58%) Stuttgart

C- (71%) Amsterdam

F (51% Dusseldorf

D+ (67%) Lyon

F (44%) Milan

D (64%) Glasgow

F (38%) Rome

6.9% OTHER

INDUSTRY

D (64%) Graz

PORT

0

Road transport

10

15.4%

Cleaning the air in Europe

Source: Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona 2011

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20 culture

Mark Farina

May 29th. CDLC. Pg. Marítim de la Barceloneta 32.

After touring the globe multiple times over, legendary house mogul Mark Farina returns to Barcelona with yet another first-rate DJ set.

Since 1989 he’s performed at hundreds of shows playing his jazzy Chicago house mixed with San Francisco style. His interest in house music began circa 1988, when he began experimenting with a deeper style of house music—dropping De La Soul and disco classics—not commonly heard inside nightclubs at the time. Farina’s unique sound attracted worldwide fame as he developed his trademark style known as ‘Mushroom Jazz’, acid jazz fused with the West Coast’s jazzy, urban house beats.

0 editor’s pick

Primavera sound

May 28th-31st. Parc del Fòrum. Pg. Olímpic 5-7. www.primaverasound.com.

As always, this year’s Primavera Sound lineup embraces any style or genre of music that touches upon pop or rock, as well as underground electronic and dance music, and combines up and coming artists with big, established acts. Over the last 12 years, Primavera Sound has attracted a bigger crowd each time, from just 8,000 in 2001 to a whopping 170,000 in 2013. This year, over 150 bands are scheduled to play, with headliners including Arcade Fire, Nine Inch Nails, The National, Queens of the Stone Age, Kendrick Lamar and the Pixies. Check the official website for information on day passes and other special offers.

basque beats

Crystal Fighters. May 15th, 7.30pm.

Sant Jordi Club. Pierre de Coubertin 6.

Crystal Fighters are back in Barcelona with a fresh repertoire of progressive dance music infused with Basque melodies and bass-driven wonk-funk. Their latest album, Cave Rave, continues to score with London’s trendy indie-dance scene with singles like “LA Calling” and “Love Natural”. Their super anthems will glue you to the dance floor with sounds from traditional Basque instruments like txalapartas and txistus, percolating techno synths and early 1980s Spanish punk beats.

Luz Verde. May 15th, 10pm. Hard Rock Cafe. Pl. Catalunya 21.

Every month, Metropolitan sponsors a band to play at the Hard Rock Cafe. This month, we present Venezuelan rock band, Luz Verde. Together since 1995, this band from Caracas has a cultivated style of music that shifts between pop-rock and pop.

They’ve appeared in the Spanish Rolling Stones magazine and recorded five albums, including numerous hit singles such as “Luna de Papel” and ”El Final del Mundo”. They’ve recently completed their sixth album and we are very happy to collaborate with them for their official release party!

20-21. Musicpdf.indd 6

Photo by Cassandra Stuyt

hard rock sessions

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culture 21

1st. the Kooks This indie pop-rock band formed in Brighton will be delivering songs from their upcoming album featuring their new single, “Down”.

Razzmatazz. Almogàvers 122.

1st. chameleon vox (the CHAMELEONS) The post-punk band from Middleton, UK, now touring under the name Chameleon Vox, will be treating fans to some back catalogue classics.

Sala Arena. Princesa 1.

3rd. bart davenport The singer-songwriter returns with his new full-length album, Physical World, a one-of-a-kind hybrid of paisley pop and sweet soul.

La [2] de Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

4TH. Micah P. Hinson and Alberto Montero American singer-songwriter and Valencian composer, singer and instrumentalist perform together as part of the Guitar Festival.

Teatre Barts. Avda. Paral.lel 62.

5TH. sonata arctica A night of rockabilly courtesy of this trio from Barcelona.

Bikini. Avda. Diagonal 547.

7TH. BOO BOO DAVIS Electric blues from this blues virtuoso from the Mississippi Delta.

Razzmatazz 2. Pamplona 88.

9th. richard bona Jazz, African and fusion music from Cameroon’s most famous jazz bassist and his band.

Teatre Coliseum. Gran Via 595.

11TH. Amos lee North American Amos Lee takes to the stage with his folk, soul and rock music,apolo barcelona presenting his fifth studio album Mountains of Sorrow, Rivers of Song as part of the Guitar Festival.

Teatre Barts. Avda. Paral.lel 62.

12TH. malacara ft. wilson This duo will play some smooth blues and folk music with guitar and harmonica at this cosy jazz bar known for showcasing the best local musicians.

Jazz Petit. Encarnació 143.

16TH. electrosexual He is the electro-sex (sometimes called sex-tronica) precursor and pioneer, known for the strong use of analogue synthesizers in his music.

Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

27th. IRON maiden Since their explosion on the scene in the early eighties this English heavy metal band have been hailed as one of the UK’s greatest live acts..

Sala BeCool. Pl. Joan Llongueras 5.

28TH. steve hackett British singer-songwriter, guitarist, and former member of Genesis, visits the city as part of his 2014 world tour.

Barcelona Teatre Musical. Guàrdia Urbana 7.

30TH. enzo siragusa FACT Limited Edition invites the DJ and creator of London’s FUSE to play the season’s closing party with his unique dub-house bassheavy sound.

La Boîte. La Rambla 33.

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22 culture

0 editor’s pick

Heroes and villains

Salón Internacional del Cómic de Barcelona.

May 15th-18th. Fira de Barcelona. www.ficomic.com.

One of Europe’s biggest comic shows, the Salón Internacional del Cómic de Barcelona is celebrating its 32nd edition this year. Held in over 32,000 square metres at the Fira Barcelona, it’s a comic enthusiast’s dream, featuring works by many of the world’s best-known authors and artists.

At the heart of this year’s show is the exhibition “Comics in war”. Including over 200 original comics and illustrations by international authors, it is divided into different historical periods, with parts devoted to war correspondents, genocides and exiles. There are also retrospectives to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Batman and the 40th anniversary of Wolverine. Other exhibitions are devoted to the winners of the 2013 edition of the fair.

Among the list of confirmed foreign guests are renowned authors like North-American journalist Joe Sacco, British Andrew Wildman (Transformers), Mike Carey (The Unwritten), Argentine Eduardo Risso (100 Bullets), French authors Audrey Spiry (En silence), Chloé Cruchaudet (Mauvais genre) and Italians Manuele Fior (L’intervista) and Pasquale Del Vecchio (WW2.2) and Serbian RM Guera (Django Unchained).

Besides the exhibitions there is a packed programme of activities including conferences, workshops, strategy games, video projections and concerts.

A one-day pass costs €7.

too much information

Until October 26th. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

This year the CCCB launched BIG BANG DATA, the first installation of a series of projects that explores the intersections between science, technological innovation, culture and society. The exhibition looks at the phenomenon of the information era and how it is transforming our society. On show are art and design projects, historical documentation, prototypes of new services and technologies and interviews with global field experts. The exhibition space will also be a platform for meeting and debating this controversial theme with workshops, ‘hackathons’, education programmes and meetups for local and international communities.

beauty in bronze

Richard Macdonald: The First Twenty-Five.

Until June 15th. MEAM. Barra de Ferro 5.

American sculptor Richard Macdonald is one of the most celebrated and collected figurative artists in the world. He has spent 25 years studying dancers and acrobats and, in his words, his work portrays “the beauty of the human body and the spirit that drives it”. He works directly with his models throughout the creative process. These are often celebrated dancers, performers, and athletes and he works closely with the Cirque du Soleil and the London Royal Ballet, whose performers are depicted in his bronze sculptures. This is the first time that his work has been shown in Spain.

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real life art

Allan Kaprow: Other Ways.

Until May 30th. Fundació Antonio Tàpies.

Aragó 255.

The Fundació Antonio Tàpies dedicates this exhibition to the New Jersey-born painter, assemblagist and performance art pioneer Allan Kaprow, who died in 2006. Its aim is to revisit and develop the ideas and issues that the artist tirelessly worked on throughout his career. Kaprow was heavily influenced by Jackson Pollock and his willingness to mix art with life, leading to his own exploration of performance art, installations and what he called “happenings”. His performance works will take place throughout the exhibition, recreated by artists and groups following the original instructions of Kaprow.

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culture 23

recently opened GALERIA H2O Harri Palviränta, Violence Works. The Finnish photographer presents several portraits of the gunmen responsible for the ten worst school shootings since 1999. Each image is made up of photographs or newspaper cuttings related to firearms and shootings. Until May 29th.

Verdi 152.

FOUSION GALLERY Hannah Adamszek, Hayoka. London-based Adamaszek injects some new talent and energy into female portaits, bringing a painterly style often found in contemporary art to the street art scene. Until June 5th.

Carassa 4.

LAST CHANCE FUNDACIÓ FOTO COLECTANIA Guillaume Leblon, The Constant Repetition of False. The fourth exhibition of this French artist at ProjecteSD presents his ability to transofrm and transfigure scrap and organic elements into a visual experience. Until May 8th.

Julián Romea 6.

GALERIA SENDA Gino Rubert, Ex-Voto. Centennial tradition and contemporary creation come together in this series where the artist develops the narrative of his Mexican roots. Until May 17th.

Consell de Cent 337.

ARTEVISTAS GALLERY Victor Otero, Pretéritas. The Catalan artist presents his first exhibition in Artevistas which captures the emotions of his subjects and tries to see beyond the superficiality of appearances using watercolours and oil. Until May 18th.

Passatge del Crèdit 4.

LA CAPELLA Neither Created nor Destroyed. Secondary school pupils and teachers in Barcelona showcase 11 new pieces created over the course of an academic year, inviting you to visit a series of possible places from which to think about and experience the idea of space through familiar materials and situations. Until May 18th.

Hospital 56.

MACBA Before Our Eyes. This exhibition explores questions related to the Mediterranean, North Africa and Middle East and the emergence of new forms of civilisation within the Arab world. Until May 18th.

Plaça dels Àngels 1.

FUNDACIÓ JOAN MIRÓ 35 years of Espai 13. This exhibition presents a reflective look at the Miró’s Espai 13 as if it were a collection within the foundation itself.

Until May 25th.

Parc de Montjuik, s/n. villa del arte galleries Jean-Francois Rauzier, Longue Histoire. A collection presenting Rauzier’s concept of Hyperphotography, a technique involving the digital composition of an infinite number of photographs on a single image. Until May 31st.

Tapineria 39.

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24 culture

IN THE FIRST pERSoN

Primera Persona. May 8th-10th. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

The CCCB’s Primera Persona festival is back for another year, uniting an eclectic mix of artists of all disciplines to bare their souls. Now in its third edition, the festival is a true celebration of the self, through music, monologues, discussions and theatre. During three days a diverse group of people including artists, writers, musicians and comedians will take to the stage to discuss their lives and works. Among the highlights of this year’s festival, Tracey Thorn from Everything But the Girl talks about her life (8th); novelist Jonathan Coe and comedian David Nobbs discuss the use of pathos in comedy (9th); Irvine Welsh talks about his experiences, phobias and passions (10th); Gerard Love, the bassist from Teenage Fanclub runs through the highlights of his career, accompanied by young Mallorcan group Beach Beach; Bob Stanley of Saint Etienne and Green Gartside of Scritti Politti discuss pop music (10th) and Canadian writer Sheila Heti talks about her creative process (10th). A great chance to get up close and personal with some interesting artists.

FUN RUNS

0 EDIToR’S pICK

Wings for Life. May 4th. The Color Run. May 18th.

Forget those serious marathons, half marathons and 10ks. This month Barcelona hosts two runs that you certainly won’t be pursuing a personal best in, but you might just have a good time. The motto of Wings for Life is ‘Running for those who can’t’ with all proceeds going to the Wings for Life foundation which funds research into curing spinal cord injury. The race will take place on May 4th at the same time in over 33 locations all over the world, from Auckland to Verona. The catch to this race is that there’s no finishing line. Half an hour after the runners set off, official catcher cars set off after them. When the catcher car overtakes a runner, that runner is out of the race and can head off to the celebration zone to relax. As the race progresses the catchers accelerate, eliminating runners as they pass them until there is just one man and one woman left. Entry costs €40 and you can sign up at www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com. The Color Run by Desigual is a 5k that starts and ends in Pl. Espanya. Open to all ages, the aim is to have as much fun as possible. Runners must wear white clothing and 250 volunteers are on hand to shower them with coloured powder as they advance along the course. You can run individually or in groups with friends. It costs�€22 to enter and you can sign up at www.thecolorrun.es.

FLAMENCo ToDAY

UpToWN BoHo

BCN en las Alturas. May 9th-11th, 11am-11pm. Los Tilos.

Pg. dels Til·lers 1. www.facebook.com/bcnenlasalturas Barcelona’s trendiest occasional market is back and suitably located uptown in Los Tilos, a swanky modernista building in Pedralbes. Lasting three days, BCN en las Alturas will be packed with stalls selling clothes, home decor and accessories from all corners of the globe. Live music, gourmet food and a well-stocked bar will get you in the shopping mood. Described as the Portobello of Barcelona, the G&Ts, cava and smart crowd give this market a distinctly Pedralbes feel.

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Ciutat Flamenco. May 22nd-25th. Mercat de les Flors.

The Mercat de les Flors says adéu to ‘Carmen Amaya Year’, dedicating their annual Ciutat Flamenco festival to the legendary flamenco dancer. Born in the Barceloneta in 1918, Amaya’s early years were spent in poverty living in a wagon with her parents and siblings. Her parents taught her flamenco at a young age and she would dance in the waterfront taverns of the Barceloneta accompanied by her father on the guitar. There she was spotted by Agustín Castellón Campos who was to become a great flamenco guitarist and they later forged an artistic relationship that was to last many years. Amaya made her debut in Paris at the tender age of 11 and went on to become the greatest flamenco dancer of her time.

Ciutat Flamenco ends the year-long celebrations with a contemporary, transcultural and universal vision of flamenco that examines the tradition and future of this art form and showcases new artists. Organised jointly by Mercat de les Flors and Taller de Músics, the festival opens up this deeply-rooted cultural tradition, presenting its most innovative face.

4/23/14 4:02:24 PM

0

’s

culture 25

CUTTING EDGE CULTURE

Offf Festival. May 15th-17th. Disseny Hub Barcelona.

Pl. de les Glories 37.

Since it began over 10 years ago, OFFF has consolidated its position as a reference for cutting-edge software, art and digital design. Editions of the festival are now celebrated in cities all over the world, including New York, London and Paris. The Barcelona event is held at the Disseny Hub. Described as a ‘postdigital culture festival’, OFFF showcases some of the world’s most exciting new talent. Over the three days there are talks by industry leaders plus a packed programme of workshops, films, exhibitions and performances. Whether you’re looking to be inspired or just rub shoulders with some contemporary movers and shakers, this is the place to head this month.

FAST TRACK

Formula 1 de España Pirelli 2014. May 9th-11th. Montmeló Circuit de Catalunya. www.formula1.com Formula 1 fans have the chance to catch some of the action this month at the Spanish Grand Prix in Montmeló. The Spanish Grand Prix is one of the oldest still-contested car races in the world, dating back to 1913 when it began as a production car race. It was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War in 1935 then revived in 1967. Since 1968 it has been a regular part of the Formula 1 World Championship. Located 30 minutes north-east of the city, the Montmeló track has hosted the event since 1991.

The rise of Spaniard, Fernando Alonso, as a force in Formula 1 racing has led to a huge rise in interest for the sport in Spain. Of the 19 races that take place around the world between March and November, the Montmeló event is the fifth on this year’s calendar and a chance to see Alonso in action along with the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg. The event takes place over three days. Friday is practice day, on Saturday there’s more practice and the qualifying races and Sunday is the big race day.

The cheapest tickets range from €55 for a one-day Friday pass to €245 for the whole weekend. If you’re in the money and want one of the best spots in the grandstand be set to splurge up to €500 for the weekend.

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26-27. Calendar.indd 6

4/23/14 4:12:44 PM

6

DAVID SOUSA Portuguese magician and illusionist.

8.30pm. La Seca. Flassaders 40.

DAVID SAM I NEIRAT QUARTET Pop, rock, blues & funk.

7.45pm. Jazz Si Club. Requesens 2.

BARCELONA GUITAR TRIO Spanish guitar.

9pm. Santa Maria del Pi. Pl. del Pi.

Núria Andorrà Percussion improvisation.

9pm. Antic Teatre. Verdaguer i Callís 12.

TUESDAY

5

MONDAY

VOCA PEOPLE A cappella and beat box from the Israeli-based ensemble.

8.30pm. Teatre Victòria. Paral.

8pm. La Filmoteca. Pl. Salvador Seguí 1-9.

The 39 Steps Hitchcock’s 1935 classic. Part of the ‘So British!’ cycle.

7

WEDNESDAY

Festival cine d’autor Things People Do by Saar Klein.

10.30pm. Aribau Club. Gran Via 565. (Festival on until May 4th).

CALAMENCO Flamenco fusion.

10pm. Harlem Jazz Club.

Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

GNAPOSS TRIO Funk & blues.

8.30pm. Jazzpetit. Encarnació 143.

ekaterina zaytseva Classical guitar.

9pm. Santa Maria del Pi. Pl. del Pi.

DEAN WAREHAM Dream pop, psychedelic & indie from US singer.

8pm. Apolo 2. Nou de la Rambla 111.

MAYTE MARTIN Catalan flamenco singer.

9pm. Luz de Gas. Muntaner 246.

9

coarquitectura en familia Family workshop.

12pm & 5.30pm. MACBA. Pl. dels Àngels 1.

KulBIK dance company New show, Camins, from this urban dance company.

8.30pm. Mercat de les Flors.

Lleida 59. May 1st-4th.

8

2

FRIDAY

1

THURSDAY

CIRQUE ELOISE Quebec-based nouveau cirque troupe.

10pm. May 9th & 10th. Barce-

BCN EN LAS ALTURAS Open-air market.

11am-11pm. Los Tilos. Pg. dels Til·lers 1. (May 8th-10th). See page 24.

BARCELONA BIG BLUES BAND Forties big band music.

8pm. Jamboree. Pl. Reial 17.

Tres Tombs Parade Horse parade in Sant Antoni.

Starts at 11am. Corner of Calàbria and Floridablanca.

11

Fira del disc Annual record fair.

May 3rd & 4th. Estació del Nord.

rocky horror Screening of the cult film.

8.30pm. Music Hall. Rbla. de Catalunya 2-4.

10

WINGS FOR LIFE Charity run.

See page 24.

4

SUNDAY

RASTRO DE LA VIRGEN Monthly Raval flea market.

12pm-8pm. C/ de la Verge.

3

SATURDAY

What's on May 2014

26-27. Calendar.indd 7

4/23/14 4:12:46 PM

AN EVENING WITh NEIL GAIMAN Talk by the sci-fi author.

7pm. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

pRIMAVERA SOUND Music festival.

May 28th-31st. Parc del Fòrum.

Pg. Olímpic 5-7. See page 20.

STEVE hACKETT Genesis Extended 2014 world tour.

Barcelona Teatre Musical. C/ de la Guàrdia Urbana 7.

IRON MAIDEN Heavy metal from the old-timers.

8.30pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg Olímpic 5-7.

ENTRE AMIGOS Flamenco.

8.30pm. Tarantos. Pl. Reial 17.

STEphEN MARChIONDA Classical guitar.

8.30pm. Biblioteca Nacional de Catalunya. Hospital 56.

ThE 25Th ANNUAL pUTNAM COUNTy SpELLING BEE New production by Jocular Theatre. Fri, Sat, 8.30pm & Sun, 6pm until June 8th. Institut d’Estudis Nord-american. Via Augusta 123.

30

LA TERRRAzzA Opening night of Barcelona’s most famous club al aire libre.

Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guardia 13.

ThROUGh ThE LOOKING GLASS Short films.

12pm. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

Offf fESTIVAL Post-digital culture festival.

Disseny Hub Barcelona. Pl. de les Glories 27. (May 15th-17th).

See page 24.

fANGORIA Spanish glam rock/pop courtesy of Alaska and Nacho Canut.

9.30pm. Razzmattazz. Almogàvers 122.

CAVALLET DE CARTRÓ Poetry and puppets for young children.

5.30pm. Fund. Joan Miró. Parc de Montjuïc s/n.

31

CIUTAT fLAMENCO Flamenco festival.

(May 22nd-25th). Mercat de les Flors. See page 24.

BEATLES fOR KIDS Family music show.

5pm. Teatre Principal. La Rambla 27.

24

SALON DEL COMIC 32nd edition of the annual comic fair.

May 15th-18th. Fira de Barcelona. Montjuïc.

17

CIRQUE ELOISE Quebec-based nouveau cirque troupe.

10pm. May 9th & 10th. Barcelona Teatre Musical. C/ de la Guàrdia Urbana 7.

page 24.

16

DEAN WAREhAM Dream pop, psychedelic & indie from US singer.

8pm. Apolo 2. Nou de la Rambla 111.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @BCNMetropolitan for regular updates

LOS MOUSSAKIS Balkan-mediterranean music.

9pm. L’Auditori. Lepant 150.

29

28

For more information visit our website www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

ThE VALKyRIE Opening night of Wagner’s opera.

7pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59.

27

BALCONy pLAyERS International gypsy/klezmer band.

9.30pm. Centre Artesà Tradicionàrius. Pl. d’Anna Frank.

ANNA NETREBKO Classical music and opera.

8.30pm. La Pedrera. Provença 261-265.

DELS BALCANS A pIAzzOLLA Cello, violin and accordion trio.

Free. 8.30pm. Casa Elizalde.

Valencia 302.

NAChO VEGAS 25 Guitar Festival BCN Teatre Barts. Paral·lel 62.

22

21

19

GUIRI BUSINESS Networking sponsored by Metropolitan.

7pm-9pm. Cinco Jotas. Las Arenas. Gran Via 373-375.

ISAAC REGUERA Piano recital of works by great composers.

Free. 8pm. Cotxeres de Borrell.

Viladomat 2-8.

pOETRy WEEK BARCELONA Local and international poets read from their works.

9pm. Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6.

ThE JAzzMAN TRIO Jazz, blues, gospel.

10pm. Jazzman. Roger de Flor 238.

hARD ROCK SESSION Metropolitan presents Luz Verde 10pm. Hard Rock Cafe. Pl. Catalunya 21. See page 20.

SURpRISED! Cabaret, circus and dance.

8pm. Teatre Principal. La Rambla 27. (Every Wed-Fri).

JOhNNy WINTER American blues guitarist.

Sala BBK. Gran Via 19-21.

GNApOSS TRIO Funk & blues.

8.30pm. Jazzpetit. Encarnació 143.

15

VOCA pEOpLE A cappella and beat box from the Israeli-based ensemble.

8.30pm. Teatre Victòria. Paral. lel 67-69.

dor Seguí 1-9.

14

DAVID SAM I NEIRAT QUARTET Pop, rock, blues & funk.

7.45pm. Jazz Si Club. Requesens 2.

12

NúRIA ANDORRà Percussion improvisation.

9pm. Antic Teatre. Verdaguer i Callís 12.

BIERGARTEN Beer festival.

(May 22nd-25th). Poble Espanyol.

III CLOWN fESTIVAL Games, shows and workshops.

11am-7pm. La Pedrera. Provença 261-265.

25

ThE COLOR RUN 5K fun run.

See page 24.

BRUNCh ELECTRONIK Djs, food, film and flea market.

11am-8pm. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

SUNDAy ShOppING Shops are all open today.

18

BARCELONA BIG BLUES BAND Forties big band music.

8pm. Jamboree. Pl. Reial 17.

28 FEATURE

Living room

concerts As many of Barcelona’s live music venues close, SoFar Sounds provides some welcome and intimate spaces for concert-goers. Text and photos by Tori Sparks.

C

alling all Barcelona residents, nightlife lovers, and music fans: throw out the names of three or four small music clubs around town—and not just any small music clubs, but cool, intimate listening environments with a solid reputation. You know, places where on almost any given night, you can walk in and be treated to quality music in a quality atmosphere.

No? Not too many spring to mind?

Barcelona used to be home to more such places, but in the past ten years, due to the financial crisis and increasingly restrictive laws, many have either been forced to cut back significantly on their musical programming, operate en negro (illegally) or close completely. The live music scene is suffering, and for every club that switches from bands to DJs, or closes down, it’s rare that another one opens.

The public has less live music options and musicians are hurting for the lack of small spaces in which to play. What do you do if you’re touring through Barcelona, or you’re a young band still building your base and can’t pull in 500 people on a Wednesday night? (Especially if there’s rain or football.) You obviously can’t play the Apolo or Sala Bikini. So, what options do you—and your fans—have?

A trend that’s been popular in the US for decades has slowly crept across the pond, made its way into the UK, and finally, into continental Europe. It is an alternative to, and arguably a replacement for, the small music club or listening room: the house concert.

The first ‘official’ house concerts are speculated to have originated in New York City in the 1920s and 1930s, often with tie-ins to burlesque shows and the illegal sex trade. These days, a house concert is usually a little more mild and often exactly what its title implies, a concert in someone’s living room.

In the simplest format, people sit on sofas, chairs, on the floor, or wherever they can find a free spot. The host clears a space for the musician(s) to stand, perhaps sets out some candles and/or rearranges lamps to add a little atmosphere.

The music is usually unplugged, or acoustic—no amplifiers, no sound system, just the old school method of projection; i.e., strong lungs. Sometimes house concerts aren’t even located inside a house. They might be hosted in a church, on a temporary wooden stage in the garden, or any unconventional private space that is not typically used for performance.

Usually there are food and drinks available, either provided by the hosts, donated by the guests, or available for purchase. There is normally a cover charge, which is how the hosts pay their expenses and pay the musicians, though there are many people who consider these events a hobby, a passion, or a labour of love, and choose to donate all the proceeds to the artists. The audiences are typically either part of a mailing list, or have discovered the event via wordof-mouth. Some are house concert devotees, and others had never heard of such events before their neighbour, girlfriend or roommate convinced and/or dragged them along for the show.

SoFar Sounds is the first example of house concerts that I’ve come across in Barcelona. Their system is a little different from a typical house concert, but they have made it work remarkably well. Considering that the house concert is an almost unknown concept in Barcelona, and that many houses here are actually apartments and are relatively small, SoFar has made huge strides in their first year of putting on shows in the city.

However, SoFar Barcelona did have a little help. The organisation was first started in London in 2009. Three friends, all rabid music fans, decided they wanted to create a live music experience that would be intimate, unique, and would provide an alternative to the local club scene. They would host ‘secret’

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Top right: Las Suecas Above: Everyone, including the sound engineers, is a volunteer

MORE INFO. For more information about SoFar Sounds and their upcoming events, see: www.facebook.com/sofarbcn www.sofarsounds.com

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FEATURE 29

concerts in private homes around the city, and invite people solely by word-ofmouth and via online guerrilla marketing. First come, first served, a free show with limited capacity showcasing new local talent… and with the names of the performers kept under wraps until the night of the show, to deepen the element of intrigue. It worked. By February 2013, their project had expanded to 50 cities around the world, and had hosted its first concert in Barcelona.

American expat Mary Elizabeth Adams managed the team of six that is currently involved in organising the Barcelona concerts: Anna Fernández, Anna Ibarzabal, Victoria Niven, Roberto Esposito, Jordi Isern y Ainara Marañón. I interviewed Anna Fernández about her role in the SoFar Sounds production team. She commented: “Each of us plays an essential role in the process of putting on a SoFar concert. Selecting the artists, coordinating the crew who films and records the audio for each show, the photographer, the organisation of each event, the person who is responsible for promoting the event via the email list and social networks, inviting people... it’s a lot of shared responsibility.”

She says that she was attracted to working with the SoFar series for the same reasons as the UK founders: “Music is the main character. It’s a project based on passion and respect for music. Our mission is to revive live music on a global scale.” So far (no pun intended), SoFar has 17,000 active subscribers on their YouTube channel.

They mostly use social networks, especially Facebook, in order to get the word out about their events. Because the concerts are ‘secret’, traditional methods of promoting a club show are closed to them—posters, media and so on. Their biggest weapon is still word of mouth, and their ever-growing email list.

Anna says, “More than anything, we want to attract real live music fans,

people who are excited about the opportunity to get close to an artist, people who are open to discovering new bands and who have the curiosity to come out to a show—even if they’re not familiar with the band that is playing.”

I attended the last SoFar Sounds show in Barcelona. We were emailed an address close to the main correos office the day before the show. When we showed up at 8.15pm—the show was announced for 8.30pm—the line of people stretched around the block. At 8.30pm exactly we filed in, and bought beer, wine in plastic cups, water, Coca-Cola, potato chips or boxes of sushi (sushi? yes, sushi). My companion and I managed to snag a seat on the black leather couch in the back of the room. Most sat on the floor. The room was cleared of furniture.

One of the bedrooms off to the side was being used as a dressing room for the musicians. The ‘stage’ was the floor space in front of tall picture windows dressed in white curtains and sparkly fairy lights.

Three local bands played that night. The final act, a quartet called Las Suecas, stole the show. I was blown away that they were able to put on such a dynamic show without a sound system of any kind, because this was not your typical acoustic, appropriate-for-house-concerts act strumming chilled-out folk ballads. There was a (admittedly small) drum kit, played by a perpetually grinning guy with a huge afro, and a baby blue electric guitar played by a pretty girl with long, dark hair and a super-short dress. A variety of whistles, Theremins, toy keyboards and other gadgets were experimented with by another brunette with huge geeky glasses (geeky in the best possible way). To top everything off, Paul McCartney-style electric bass. This was played by the lead singer, a thin girl with chin-length honey-coloured hair, who looked like something out of an 18th-century painting in vintage pants. They all sang harmonies. They sounded like PJ Harvey and Nirvana and the Velvet Underground (in Catalan!), and it was awesome.

They were so much fun, and I never would have discovered them had I not happened upon SoFar’s secret shows.

The night was a great experience for all involved.

The music was fresh, the audience was generally young and excited to be there, and the crew was as professional (or more so) as any I’d seen.

If I am to be completely honest, the one thing I would usually find fault with is that SoFar doesn’t pay their musicians. Everyone who comes through plays for free, whether they’re touring, local, well-known or just starting out. Being a professional musician myself, this initially rubbed me the wrong way. Working musicians are out there trying to make a living, just like anyone else. That being said, no one—not the promoters, not the sound technician, not the video guy, not the organiser, not the emcee—gets paid. Everything is voluntary. At the show that I saw, there were at least seven SoFar team members working hard to make the experience a great one for all involved.

As a result, in this case I can’t complain. Though not typical of house concerts, their all-volunteer format works well for them, and the SoFar team is extremely dedicated. The bands who play are told in advance that they will be playing for free, and it’s up to them to accept or reject the opportunity to play in a welcoming environment in front of a potential pool of excited new fans.

We all have to make a living, but sometimes (often), playing is about more than the paycheck.

Music is the main character. It’s a project based on passion and respect for music.

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30 FEATURE

On the ball The Barcelona International Football League has been providing locals and foreigners with football and a welcoming community for 22 years. By Ryan Hughes

I

was about to leave my house on what was a surprisingly sunny Glasgow day in March 2012. It was my penultimate day in my home city before flying out to Barcelona to start a new life as a TEFL teacher, far removed from my degree and work experience in the financial sector. I had prepared as well as I thought possible. I had completed the TEFL course and arranged accommodation. My bags were packed, money exchanged and passport up to date. Yet I still had that feeling within my gut that I think everyone has before setting off to pastures new.

A mixture of excitement and apprehension, of looking forward to what was ahead but slightly petrified all the same.

An old flat-mate had put me in touch with a friend of a friend, an Irishman by the name of Ross Rowley who had been teaching in Barcelona for close to three years. He had provided me with plenty of details of where to start once I had stepped off the plane. Get your social security and NIE sorted, open a bank account, get CVs sent out to the academies, and then hit the streets for face-to-face meetings with the directors of studies.

However, as I moved the computer mouse to close down my computer before leaving my house, he asked a simple question which in hindsight became the most important aspect of settling into this wonderful city; “Do you play any ball?” I said that I did, and he went on to provide my with the details of the team he was playing for, Michael Collins. Two days after I landed in Barcelona, I turned up for training and and sought out Ross.

I was impressed with the facilities, a mini stadium in Can Dragó, just a hop, skip and a jump from Fabra i Puig metro. It is used by Piferrer and Technofutbol in the third regional league, as well as by youth teams, run by FC Alzamora and Fundación Marcet, but is now also let out to teams within

the BIFL, (the Barcelona International Football League), for midweek training sessions and league games on Saturday afternoons.

From the first training session and a chat over a couple of cervezas in the adjoined bar afterwards, it was obvious that the team and league format was well organised. I had an idea of this from looking at the league’s website the evening before. It showed the time and devotion given by those passionate about amateur football and the service it provided to all involved.

As the team sat around the table talking, the different accents showed the diversity of nations playing. English, Irish, Dutch, Spanish, Catalan, German, Georgian and French to name a few: this was a multi-national team playing together, and as amateur football goes, sharing a beer together. As the weeks passed, the inside knowledge and advice from foreigners and locals within the team was endless and invaluable. A friend’s flat for rent, job opportunities on the horizon, places to dine, events and parties that shouldn’t be missed.

This is the kind of social circle that anyone arriving in a new city dreams of. And the cyclical nature of the organisation, with people coming and going over time, makes it what it is, a family within a community. Once settled and armed with knowledge, I felt it my duty to put an arm around a newcomer to the team and to share my pearls of wisdom to help them to settle in as seamlessly as I did. Ross Toal, from Dublin, is captain of the Michael Collins team and he agrees that the mutual support aspect is an important part of the league. “I think our team, and the league in general, makes a lot of people over-stay their planned time here. We have a very special group and I feel lucky to be part of it.”

However, the league did not reach this stage overnight. The founder of BIFL, Nick Simons, arrived in Barcelona at the beginning of the nineties, and soon found out that it wasn’t easy to find a team to play with. From his

Twenty-three teams now compete in the league, complete with sponsored strips, amazing facilities, and a camaraderie that money can’t buy.

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FEATURE 31

The Barcelona International Football League FACTS Founded: 2004 Number of teams in 2014: 23 Youngest current player - James Fooyrd, aged 16 Relaxing with a post-match beer.

Oldest current player - Jimmy Byrne, aged 58 Most nationalities on one team at the same time - 23 (The Black Sheep)

frustration, he determined to take what was then a Saturday kick-about on any patch of spare ground the players could find, (usually a dirt field in those days), and turn it into something more professional and rewarding for the aspiring English teachers he met at the time. He soon discovered that his football-playing peers in the city were just as enthusiatic about the idea. The first season saw only eight teams compete, split into two groups of four, which meant only a handful of games for each team. Money was tight, sponsorship hard to gain, players swapped between teams so games could be played and people even volunteered to be referees of their own accord! It’s fair to say that the league was an organised shambles in its early years. But it was the beginning, and a beginning that has grown and prospered in the following 22 years.

I talked to Nick, (who is still president of the league and also manager of The Black Sheep), and fellow committee member, Steve Varley, the current manager of reigning champions Michael Collins. They explained how the league runs now and the work that goes into keeping it all going smoothly.

Weekly meetings are held to record scores, goal-scorers, bookings and suspensions and to re-arrange fixtures. On top of that, the committee keeps the website up to date, buys trophies for the eventual winners and makes sure that fees are paid for the pitches. To pay the fees, sponsorships are secured for each team, and these days, to guarantee referees at each game, the referees get paid. Twenty-three teams now compete in the league, complete with sponsored strips, amazing facilities and a camaraderie that money can’t buy.

There’s certainly rivalry within the league, but players, managers and fans (usually visiting family and friends) mix and mingle before, during and after the game.

We watch a couple of games as we chat. Steve points out one of the players from a team called The Strollers; “That’s Jimmy Byrne, still playing and as fit as a fiddle, yet he must be about 58. But don’t quote me on that.” Next up is Michael Collins. Nick shakes his head as their star striker, Matt Conway, scores another hat-trick; “He’s the bane of our title challenge. He used to be involved in the Leeds United football academy. He’s still in his early 20s, and his sharpness and pace make it a nightmare for any team to stop him.”

These two remarks, from the guys that have been involved with the league from the outset, show the diversity of players it encompasses. Yet no matter what the standard, age, colour or nationality of player, BIFL always extends a warm and friendly welcome. And it is this that has attracted people like myself, Ross, Nick, Steve, Jimmy and Matt over the last 22 years, and that will, no doubt, continue to do so for many more years.

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People looking to play on a team can post on the BIFL website: www.bifl.info

Above: Players from over the years came together last year for a friendly match.

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FREECYCLE 33

      7 MEMBERS MILLION

Freecycle ITEMS GIVEN AWAY EACH DAY

32000

AROUND THE WORLD

110 Seven

THOUSAND

COUNTRIES

5100 LOCAL COMMUNITIES

VOLUNTEERS MODERATING

ANOTHER MAN’S TREASURE

6

Barcelona is home to an active Freecycle network, dedicated to keeping the good stuff out of landfills.

I

n 2003, Deron Beal was working for a nonprofit recycling project in Tucson, Arizona.

His days were spent driving around the city in his truck, collecting donated objects and taking them to new owners. The logistics of pairing up discarded objects with new homes was complicated: it involved hours of driving and resulted in a warehouse full of unplaced items. Convinced that there had to be an easier way, in May of that year, Beal founded The Freecycle Network, an online community where people could give and receive objects. Since then over 5,100 local groups worldwide have been started, through which over seven million members follow the Freecycle motto: “Changing the world, one gift at a time”.

The Barcelona group was founded in January 2007 by a British-Argentine woman, Claudia Bullion. Claudia had lived in the UK for 13 years, where she was part of the Bristol and Cambridge Freecycle groups. When Claudia and her family relocated to the UK from Barcelona, they weren’t able to move everything they needed and Freecycle proved very useful, particularly for finding things for her young son.

When Claudia moved back to Barcelona in 2006 she saw that, not only was there no place to donate unwanted objects, but that many decent things were ending up in the rubbish bins on the street. She decided to take matters into her own hands and start the Barcelona Freecycle Network.

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“I thought that someone else would do it eventually, but I could do it right now,” says Claudia.

Freecycling is about keeping the good stuff out of landfills. Rather than throwing away something that you don’t need any more, you let it go to someone else who does need it. It’s a very civilised way to redistribute goods, save some money and create community. As Claudia points out, different cultures embrace recycling for different reasons. “In Argentina, for economic motives, we don’t just throw things away. We try to get as much use as possible out of them and then pass them on to someone else. Whereas in Bristol and Cambridge, Freecycle is part of a wider recycling movement that encourages people to consume less.”

Many of the first members of the Barcelona group were foreigners living here. However, the last two years have seen many more locals joining. Claudia has noticed that since the beginning of the economic crisis most people think twice about throwing away something new and she feels that attittudes to secondhand goods are slowly changing. It’s a slow process however: Barcelona lacks a strong recycling culture and, for many people here, secondhand goods still carry a social stigma.

The Barcelona group follows the same format as all Freecycle groups, using Google Groups as its basis for message sharing. On an average Tuesday, members are donating a TV and a coffee

machine and they are looking for a Mac charger and a skateboard. According to Claudia the most popular searches are for computers, furniture and baby items, although the scope is wide, including anything from plants and mattresses to, once, even a car.

For the site to function well, there are a few common-sense rules that members have to follow.

Each member is allowed to post just one “Busco” message each month. These messages have to refer specifically to one item and ‘Christmas wish lists’ are not allowed. Claudia and another volunteer, Nic, revise the emails one-by-one on a daily basis to ensure that they fit these rules.

For Claudia, Freecycle is a perfect win-win situation. The giver gains some space, the receiver saves some money and together they reduce waste. Meeting the person that you are giving to or receiving from adds in an important feelgood factor. One of Claudia’s most prized posessions is a sewing mannequin that she once received from someone in the group. And, after passing on some of her son’s toys to another family she received a photo of their child playing with the toys. “That really brightens your week, knowing that something you didn’t need any more is making someone else happy. It’s good karma for everyone.” www.freecycle.org https://groups.freecycle.org/group/BarcelonaFreecycle

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34 TRAVEL

IN BLOOM Hot on the heels of Sant Jordi, this month’s flower-based festivities are focused on the city of Girona, where from May 10th-18th the streets will be filled with the blossoming joys of spring. By Carol Moran

G

ateway to the Costa Brava and provincial capital, the city of Girona is situated at the confluence of four rivers and has served as a crossroads for many civilisations. The Iberians populated the area for several centuries, before the Romans built the fort of Gerunda along the Via Augusta from Rome in 79BC, followed by the Visigoths, Moors and Charlemagne.

Numerous sieges, captures and centuries later, this ancient settlement is a thriving city of just under 100,000 citizens, where an extraordinary history and perfectly preserved old town sit alongside beautiful architecture, elegant boutiques, and a lively culinary scene. And, whilst tourists tend to bypass this historical gem en route to its more famous neighbours, there is no better time to visit than during the annual international flower festival.

Flower power From May 10th-18th, the Temps de Flors festival flourishes in the streets of Girona, transforming the city into a platform for creativity, where the flowers take centre stage. 142 imaginative floral installations, from the ornate to the abstract, adorn every corner of the old town, all with the objective of highlighting the rich historical and architectural heritage of this vibrant Catalan city.

The 59th edition of this colourful celebration will see 50 monuments, 85 patios, and seven gardens bursting into bloom decked out by crafty green fingers hoping to impress the judges, including private historic properties that open their doors

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exclusively for the event—a unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of the city’s hidden treasures.

The celebrations spring into action at 11am on May 10th with the official opening which takes place on the steps of the cathedral—a good starting point for your tour.

Follow the scent To wander through the labyrinthine medieval streets of the delightful Barri Vell (old town) is to travel through centuries of history and cultural heritage. Encompassing the most extensive and best-preserved Jewish quarter in Europe, this tightly knit urban fabric rises from the bustling Rambla Llibertat, winding its way up towards the towering cathedral.

Constructed between the 11th and 18th centuries, the Cathedral of Santa Maria is a mishmash of the Romanesque, Baroque and Catalan Gothic styles and contains the widest Gothic nave (22m) in the world. During the festival, a brightly coloured, flower-filled carpet cascades down the 86 steps that lead to the imposing structure, and is a must-see.

Within the cathedral, the Romanesque cloister showcases another artistic installation, whilst just steps away, beautiful blossoms transform the 12th-century Arab Baths. As you wander the ancient surroundings, be sure to stop by the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants, a Benedictine abbey and home to the Museu Arqueològic, and the 17th-century convent of Sant Martí Sacosta for more sweet-scented exhibits, followed by a stroll along the Passeig de la Muralla (the old city walls) for a bird’s-eye view of the efflorescent

event.

Aside from the colourful cultivations, there is a full agenda of events and entertainment running throughout the festival, from markets, workshops and music festivals, to photography competitions and guided tours.

Music plays a key role, coinciding with both the third annual edition of the ‘A Cappella’ music festival (May 10th-18th) and ‘European Opera Days’ (May 10th-11th). The former brings together a host of diverse artists performing without instrumental accompaniment, from jazz and pop to barbershop and beatbox, whilst the latter will see open air renditions of opera excerpts performed in Plaça del Vi. Elsewhere, outdoor concerts, local choirs and folk dancing competitions will be filling the flower-scented air with melodies.

And music is not the only kind of festival coinciding with the Temps de Flor. On Saturday May 17th, ‘Museums Night’ will be celebrated across Europe, which means free entrance and late opening (until 1am) in the museums of Girona.

Get a snapshot of Girona through the ages at the engaging Museu d’Història de la Ciutat, or, after walking the streets of the Call, find out more about the community that lived there at the Museu d’Història del Jueus de Girona, proudly demonstrating the city’s Jewish heritage.

If history is not your thing, the Museu del Cinema traces the history of the art form and screens floral-themed films during the festival, or the Museu d’Art houses around 8,500 artworks from across the region, from Romanesque woodcarvings to early-20th-century paintings.

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TRAVEL 35

Getting there 99km northeast of Barcelona, Girona is easily reached by train (one hour and 15 minutes, or 37 minutes on the AVE) and bus (one hour and 35 minutes from Estació Nord with Sagalés), or by car (AP-7 paying €7.90 toll, or C-32 paying €€4.85). The exhibitions are open 10am-9pm and admission is free (Wed 14th and Sat 17th, 10ammidnight).

Where to stay Whilst a day trip there and back is easily doable, there is certainly enough to merit an overnight stay, or maybe even two...

Boutique: Hotel Llegendes de Girona Catedral Hotel Nord 1901 and Hotel Ciutat de Girona Budget: Equity Point Hostel Self-catered: Apartamentos Girorooms, airbnb Escape the city: Hotel El Racó de Madremanya (11km away) Camping Girona (7km away)

Where to eat Girona is the beating heart of Catalan culinary innovation and during the festival the city’s chefs take creative cuisine to a new level with flowerthemed menus, featuring violet petals, rosemary blossoms, and pink flower beer. If you’re feeling flush (and don’t mind waiting a few months), the world’s best restaurant awaits, Cellar Can Roca.

Otherwise, there are plenty more options where you can feast on the famed local fare...

L’Alqueria (C/de la Ginesta 8): Smart arrocería known for its superb rice dishes.

Le Bistrot (Pujada de San Doménech 8): An early20th-century style classic serving Catalan and French cuisine.

La Penyora (Nou del Teatre 3):Delectable local dishes served against a backdrop of art works.

Konig (Carrer dels Calderers 16): Ideal for a quick snack.

And for a drink in the evening, head to Plaça de la Independència and Plaça de Sant Feliu, or to the roof terrace of the Hotel Ultonia.

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Top tips from the locals • Try to visit at the beginning of the festival when the flowers are at their freshest.

• Eat a good breakfast or take a packed lunch with you, so you can continue wandering the artistic creations when the crowds disperse for lunch (1-4pm).

• Stop by the tourist information point (Rambla Llibertat 1) to pick up a plan of the exhibitions.

• Be sure to make restaurant and hotel reservations in advance.

• A full programme and walking route can be downloaded from the official website (www. gironatempsdeflors.net) or followed on the eFlors app, available during the festival.

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36 RESTAURANT REVIEW

HISOP

Chef Oriol Ivern-Bondia has created a light and harmonious tasting menu full of seasonal flavours.

Text by Tara Stevens. Photo by Aimee McLachlan.

H

Passatge Marimon 9 (Sant Gervasi) Tel. 93 241 3233 www.hisop.com Open Mon-Fri 1.30pm-3.30pm, Mon-Sat 8.30pm11pm, closed Sat lunch, Sunday and holidays.

Tasting menu €57 (€90 incl. wine pairing); threecourse market lunch €28 (weekdays only). ✪✪✪✪

NOT WORTH THE TRIP COULD IMPROVE ✪✪✪ GOOD ✪✪✪✪ VERY GOOD ✪✪✪✪✪ NOT TO BE MISSED ✪

✪✪

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ere’s a little secret for you. Tasting menus that don’t leave me feeling just a tiny bit overwhelmed by the end are few and far between, so it was a real pleasure to revisit Oriol Ivern-Bondia’s Hisop recently, which I’d last written about when it first opened over 10 years ago. “Oh God, how was it?” he asked me when I told him this. I scrambled about in the darkest recesses of my mind, but honestly I couldn’t recall much. “I bet it was a disaster,” he said with uncharacteristic chefy modesty. Well no, not really. I remembered it being like no other food I’d ever had at the time, great fun, but kind of busy with so many tastes and textures clamouring for attention. Fast forward a decade or so and Bondia is at the top of his game. He’s added a non-advertised lunchtime menu of three courses that changes every three weeks and is based around whatever star ingredients he finds in the market, while his tasting menu dishes have become harmonious creations that are cleverly balanced and light.

As is typical of the tasting menu format, compared to the more gutsy ambience of the modern bistro say, here it’s all about the food. No distractions. The dining room is stark, softened simply by panels of honey-coloured wood and round tables draped in white linens as luscious as cream. Service is all black-uniformed sleekness, like graceful panthers laying artfully presented plates of food in the pooling light. Compared to the more casual approach being taken to fine dining these days it feels just a tiny bit formal, but not uncomfortably so, and when the food starts coming it is all the better for being properly savoured.

Two local oils, one liquid gold, the other limpid green, come with crisply savoury Armenian flatbreads baked in-house. An amuse bouche of tender octopus smoked over lime leaves on a puddle of what can only be described as essence of sea is followed by sensational, creamily tender ribbons of cuttlefish on a subtle, roasted garlic aioli with a streak of parsley puree. Rare mackerel on confit tomatoes with basil cream comes wrapped up like a posh pig-in-a-blanket in silky jamón fat; white asparagus spears rise majestically from fluffy little clouds of Jabugo ham-infused mayonnaise and are topped with neat little slices

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RESTAURANT REVIEW 37

of tuna belly sprinkled with faintly bitter green tea dust. It is silky and crunchy, mellow and acid, fresh and lively—a proper spring dish that you’d happily eat in main course-sized portions.

The seared sea bass by contrast, this time paired with wild asparagus, new season morels and a spike of heat from Peruvian pepper and a drizzle of soothing cream, is fair weather comfort food. A chunk of cochinillo (suckling pig) treats diners to more morels (the season for them is cruelly short-lived, so I welcome two dishes of them on the trot) scattered with shavings of fresh hazelnuts lending a final, earthy kicker to the briny sea flavours that have gone before and the whole is sealed with a loving ‘kiss’ in the form of a dish of savoury lavender ice-cream to bridge the gap before dessert.

I fairly skip out of the place for this is pretty, pretty food that doesn’t weigh you down, and is brimming with the delicate flavours of spring.

Strawberries escabeche (pickled), topped with cold shards of strawberry granita infused with black pepper and mint, dance around the taste buds in joyful mouthfuls, and a blood orange sorbet provides that final soupçon of pleasure before coffee and clever petit fours of candied vegetables. I fairly skip out of the place for this is pretty, pretty food that doesn’t weigh you down, and is brimming with the delicate flavours of spring.

By the time you read this of course, the menu will be full of the plumpness of summer, but the vibrant, happy food that defines Bondia’s cooking, I have no doubt, will shine on through.

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38 QUICK BITES

JAIME Beriestain Tasty, health-conscious dining in the Chilean designer’s new Eixample eaterie.

Text by Tara Stevens. Photo by Aimee McLachlan.

B

eriestain was already a well-established up-town interior designer when he decided to dive back into his first love earlier this year. His self-named restaurant, concept store and florist shop pays homage to the Chilean food-loving family he grew up in. Call it ‘haute health’ if you like with a crackling cafébistro vibe that befits an eye-boggling look that leaves you in no doubt of Beriestain’s designer credentials. Think sage green, dove grey and mustard banquettes and deeply comfortable armchairs arranged around marble-topped tables edged in gold, with multi-tiered skirted chandeliers dripping from two-storey ceilings.

On a mid-week lunchtime without a reservation our only options are at the bar or at a large, communal round-top table (the top spot by the way if you’re dining alone) where we’re treated

to impeccable service by handsome waiters in navy linen aprons, to match proper linen napkins, quality glassware and satisfyingly heavy knives and forks. The place oozes class, but what is this ‘haute health’ I hear you ask? It’s what Beriestain likes to eat obviously, but mark my words it’s also the new ‘it’ gastronomy where menus are split not just into snacks, entrées, mains and desserts, but into vegan, fat free and celiac tolerant (give or take the odd 60-day aged steak and truffled French frie) and executed with a refined elegance that booms with flavour.

My ceviche is so freshly made that our chap in an apron asks if I’m OK to wait the 15 minutes it will take to marinate? OK? I want to hug him, and when the piquant, dazzlingly fresh, lime-wasabisesame marinated seafood and red onions arrives it’s one of the best I’ve had this side of Lima. As

tastings

SEARCHING FOR CHÂTEAUNEUF In February I went French for a few days and popped up to the annual Vinisud event in Montpellier. An excellent professional wine exhibition that focuses on the south of France, it showcases close to 1,500 wineries—in just three days. It’s insane to just stroll in casually. You have to go there with a mission which for me was: experience as much Châteauneufdu-Pape as possible. Sure, I tasted plenty of others as well, but Châteauneuf is one of those high quality French appellations that you don’t see on the shelf much in Spain.

Price is one factor given that the nice bottles start at about €20€and go up quite rapidly from there. But the other is the main reason I love these wines in that they’re robust, wonderfully expressive Southern European wines with a Grenache focus from stony soils. This is not something unfamiliar in Catalunya and so the French find themselves competing with the much more wallet-friendly wines here, especially in DOQ Priorat. The stones may be different (slate versus large river stones), but the results of each

38. Quick bitespdf.indd 42

region resemble each other on many levels. Let’s take a look at a couple of options.

La Conreria d’Scala Dei - La Conreria 2012 €12€ I’m always mystified as to why more people don’t know La Conreria. I suppose it is partly due to inhabiting a village with the much larger Cellers de Scaladei. But, I enjoy all of their wines and overall the quality-price relation is excellent for Priorat.

This creation by enolog Jordi Vidal offers up a great deal with a big chunk of Grenache in the blend. Dark, succulent fruits dominate the aromas and body with a touch of mineral elements and tar as well. While a touch jammy in to the finish, it still holds enough acidity to pair very nicely with meals or to just enjoy on its own.

is a main course salad of avocado, fennel, fresh mixed herbs, pea shoots, asparagus, Kenyata green beans and pesto dressing. It’s not terribly big, but it is incredibly tasty; the sort of thing that makes you feel like you’ve just had a jog round the block and that, to my mind, is only rightly followed by a sweet, sharp, creamy lemon meringue pie made with almond crumble so the wheat-free crowd can have some fun too.

It’s not the cheapest lunch spot in town admittedly, but done right it is the sexiest kind of health kick.

Pau Claris 167 (Eixample Dreta) Tel. 93 515 0782 www.beriestain.com.

Open Mon-Fri 8.30am-3am, Sat & Sun 9.30am-3am. From €25 for two courses + glass of wine/cava. No lunch menu.

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

Ortiz and it’s excellent in its own right.

There’s lovely, complex minerality in the nose along with clean, crisp red fruits. The body dances across the palate and stays wonderfully light while developing these incredible floral aspects that carry in to a soft finish that lingers forever and evolves endlessly as it breathes. I find that this wine has Châteauneuf elements seen in wines of twice the price and it, along with its big sister, Nit de Nin offer up decadent options worth looking in to if you’re not familiar with them.

Família Nin-Ortiz - Planetes de Nin 2011 €29€ People probably know Ester Nin more for her work on the limited and much sought after Clos Erasmus with Priorat pioneer, Daphne Glorian. But, Ester has her own cellar in Porrera with her partner Carles

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40 FOOD & DRINK

FOOD&DRINK

For more in food&drink visit our online directory www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/eating-and-drinking € under 20 | €€ 20-30 | €€€ 30-40 | €€€€ over 40 RV Reservation Advised

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DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS.

Argentine 7SINS BAR AND LOUNGE EIXAMPLE E

9REINAS EIXAMPLE Argentine reastaurant Nueve Reinas has quickly become a favourite for discerning meat-eaters. Renowned for its excellent quality and value 9Reinas is specialised in meats from all over the world. The exquisite Argentina-inspired decoration offers an intimate and welcoming space where every visitor feels like a guest.

The restaurant has two floors and a private room which can host parties of up to nine people. €

If you’re looking for a friendly and good value place for a bite to eat, 7Sins is the place you’re looking for! The menu has a vast selection of dishes to share as well as a large choice of gourmet 100% beef burgers. After your meal there’s an elegant lounge with Chesterfield sofas and elegant decor, ideal for having a drink or cocktail. 7Sins also has a terrace where you can enjoy a meal or a drink outdoors. You can see their full menu at www.7sinsbar.com €

Muntaner 7 | Metro Universitat Tel. 93 453 6445 | www.7sinsbar.com Mon-Sun 1pm till late | RV

Valencia 267 | Tel. 93 272 4766 www.nuevereinas.com/en

Bar BIERFEST TAVERNSAGRADA FAMILIA This cosy traditional pub has a fantastic range of draft and bottled beers as well as a wide selection of G&T’s. They have large TVs and it’s the perfect place to watch the match with friends. If you study at the UAB join them on Facebook for more info on their regular language intercambio nights. € Av. Gaudí 81 | Metro Guinardó, Sagrada Familia T. 993 480 157 | www.bierfest.es | www.facebook.com/bierfest-barcelona

ANDÚBARRI GÒTIC Andú offers an escape from Barcelona’s mayhem, without sacrificing the fun. The cool music and relaxed vibe draws a diverse and bohemian crowd making it a warm and spirited bar full of animated locals enjoying a great wine list and classic Spanish tapas, buritos, tacos and cocktails. € Correo Viejo I Metro Jaume 1 I M. 646 553 930 Mon-Sun 6pm-2.30am

CAFÈ MANDACARÚPOBLE SEC The irresistible food, fantastic wine list and beautiful interior make Cafè Mandacarú a unique space, equally suited to a coffee, glass of wine or excellent tapas. You can also enjoy a tasty cocktail or liquor in a welcoming atmosphere. Every week some of the city’s best musicians provide live music. € Magalhães 35 | Metro Poble Sec or Paral·lel | Near Plaça del Sortidor | Tel. 93 441 4017 www.cafemandacaru.com | Wed-Sun from 6.30pm

RUBI BAR

Mojitos €3.50

Located near the church of Santa Maria del Mar in the Born, this friendly bar has a great vibe and a fantastic playlist, with prices that won’t destroy your wallet. They serve the best mojitos in town and have a selection of tasty and interesting Asian tapas. Hendricks Gin and all the rest for €5, and food is priced from €3 to €4. €

KEIK SARRIÀ / SANT GERVASI Keik has a great range of international fusion dishes, plus a big variety of salads. Everything is made fresh and with top quality ingredients. Save space for their wonderful cakes and desserts - eat in or take away. On Saturdays and Sundays they offer brunch from 10am til 12.45pm, including eggs benedict, French toast and granola. Open every day of the year. € Keik are offering two for one cocktails for all Metropolitan readers.

The promotion is valid until May.

Doctor Fleming 21 | Tel. 93 414 5536 | www.keik.es

Banys Vells 6 I Opens at 8pm

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FOOD & DRINK 41 Burger

Gastrobar & restaurant BURGER UMAMI EIXAMPLE

MILO GRILL EIXAMPLE New Restaurant & Gastrobar meeting point for the cosmopolitan people of Barcelona.

This burger joint is inspired by the ‘quinto sabor de Umami’ where they offer 30 types of 200g burgers including beef, salmon, chicken and vegetarian options, all made to order and served in artisan buns. With good prices and a friendly atmosphere, don´t be surprised if you see a famous actor or a renowned chef inside.

Why not give it a go? Welcome invitation for all Metropolitan readers. €

Gastrobar (prices between €10-€20 per person), open all day with tapas cooked on the spot. Brunch menu available from 12pm to 5pm. Enjoy the finest classic cocktails in Barcelona (€6 to €9) from 7pm.

Restaurant with grill from 1pm-4pm and 8pm-12.30pm where the best meat in the city is authentically prepared.

Cuts include Black Angus from Santa Fe, Argentina and Nebraska. €€

EADERS.

Floridablanca 148 | Infront of cinema Renoir Floridablanca | Tel. 93 292 7879 www.burgerumami.com

Balmes 127 | Tel. 93 451 5048 www.milorestaurant.com

Grilled sandwiches PIM PAM BURGERBORN

BUTIFARRING BARRI GÒTIC

At Pim Pam Burger quality is of the utmost importance, making it the best burger and frankfurter take-away in town. Special hamburgers, chicken burgers, bratwurst, frankfurters, home-made chips and stroganoff are available and are all freshly prepared on the premises. €

Butifarring is a new super specialised gourmet restaurant which makes sandwiches in a special oven with coal and wood, as the main protagonist of the menu. These sandwiches are made with love and the best craft ingredients.

You can either eat them in our 2 floor premise or take them away. In the heart of Barcelona, taste, flavour and smell will surprise you. €

Sabateret 4, Born I Metro Jaume I Tel. 93 315 2093 I burger@pimpamplats.com Calle Bigai 1, Bonanova, 08022 I Tel. 93 211 5606 www.pimpamburger.com I Every day 1pm-12am

Bagel

Call 26 (Plaça Sant Jaume) | Tel. 93 412 0314 www.butifarring.com

Indian / Tandoori BE MY BAGEL GRÀCIA

SURYA EIXAMPLE

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. €

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 cozy 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. €

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

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

Café CARROT CAFE POBLENOU The ultimate sandwich place in one of the fastest-growing districts of Barcelona @22. They offer a great selection of sandwiches served on more than 11 types of artisan bread. In addition to their premium hamburgers, beef, turkey and lamb halal, you will find an extensive menu in an inviting location. Without a doubt, Carrot Cafe is the place of excellence for sandwiches in Barcelona. €

TO ADVERTISE HERE IN F&D

CALL 93 451 4486 OR EMAIL ADS@BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

Tànger 22 I Metro Bogatell Tel. 93 309 3375 I Mon-Fri 9am-11pm, Sat 8am-midnight www.carrotcafe.es

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42 FOOD & DRINK Irish MADNOO FOODS POBLENOU

FLAHERTY'SBARRI GÒTIC Since it was established in 2001, Flaherty’s has become one of Barcelona’s best known and busiest Irish pubs. By offering food all day from 10am til midnight (including our popular Full Irish Breakfast as well as group menus), live satellite sports on big screens, WiFi, a sunny terrace and a pool room where you can also play darts, not to mention its very spacious premises, Flaherty’s has rightly become known as the pub that has it all! €

Need to spice up your life? Try this new Tandoori restaurant in Poblenou. Authentic Punjabi cuisine made with the freshest ingredients. Madnoo Foods, situated in the @22 district, offers a unique dining experience. Serving contemporary Indian dishes, they blend delicate flavours and light textures and use the very finest ingredients.

Free delivery. 10 percent discount on take away. €

Sancho de Avila 167-171 I Tel. 93 172 8131 Metro Glòries / Poblenou I Tram Glòries Every day 11am-11pm

Plaça Joaquim Xirau | Metro Drassanes Tel. 93 412 6263

Japanese / Sushi BEMBÍINDIAN CULINARY

SUSHIEXPRESSEIXAMPLE

Experience authentic Indian cuisine in modern and sophisticated surroundings. Their dishes are created with passion by their head chef who has more than 10 years of experience in the best restaurants in both India and London. If you’re vegetarian, then you will love their exciting flavours and aromas.

If you want to enjoy the best sushi service in the city, this is your place! Sushiexpress takes great pride in using top quality ingredients to ensure excellent sushi.

They deliver to your home or hotel. You can choose individual pieces of maki, nigiri, sashimi, temaki, menus, combos, and other Japanese specialties from an extensive menu on their website. If you eat at any of their locations at noon the menus are accompanied by a free drink. €

Consell de Cent 377, 08009 I Metro Girona (L4, yellow) I T. 93 502 4952 M. 645 257 701

GOVINDA (VEGETARIAN) BARRI GÒTIC

Founded 25 years ago, Govinda continues to thrive on a blend of experience and fresh innovation in vegetarian Indian cuisine.

The international menu features talis, a salad bar, natural juices, lassis, pizzas and crêpes. Govinda offers a vegan-friendly, nonalcoholic and authentically-decorated environment with lunch and weekend menus. €

Consell de Cent 255, 08011 | Tel. 93 451 5454 Open Mon-Sat 12pm-4pm, 7pm-11pm Sun12-3pm, 7pm-11pm 365days/year!

Delivery 1pm-3pm, 8pm-10.30pm Calle Santaló 55, 08021 Tues-Sat 9pm-3am Tel. 93 200 9293 www.sushiexpress.net

Plaça Villa de Madrid 4-5 | Metro Catalunya | Tel. 93 318 7729 www.amalteaygovinda.com | Tue-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11am, Sun-Mon 1pm-4pm

Juice bar

Italian

SANOSANTS Sano juice offers a healthy alternative choice with smoothies and juices, homemade bagels, paninis, wraps, tasty lunch menu for €10.45 and now brunch. Their food and smoothies are made to order with fresh ingredients, no extra sugar, offering the best quality. Sano Cuina (Sants) specialises in brunch and Sano Buenos Aires in take-away salads, wraps and drinks. Eat better. Feel better. €

Creu Coberta 50 | Metro Espanya | Tel. 93 327 8272 Buenos Aires 44 | Cerca de la Plaça Francesc Macià Tel. 93 217 8115

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ACQUA & SALE  POBLENOU This is an authentic southern-Italian kitchen where you can enjoy traditional homemade dishes.

Acqua & Sale only use the best Italian ingredients and the freshest seasonal produce. Enjoy the stylish and inviting ambience inside, or, in the warmer months, opt for their outdoor terrace.

Sundays midday - brunch and live jazz. (12pm-3pm)

Joncar 17, 08005 | Tel. 93 517 0709 | acquaesaletrattoria@hotmail.com | www.acquaesale.es | Closed Tue

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Mediterranean MAGNOLIA  BARRI GÒTIC In the heart of the Gothic quarter, Magnolia offers exquisite signature cuisine from chef Gianni Fusco at affordable prices. With its warm and loungy interior, it is the place of choice at any time of the day. During the week, breakfast and lunch menus attract big crowds thanks to their great quality and reasonable prices. In the afternoon, clients can choose from a variety of tapas or enjoy mojitos for just €3.50. €€ Breakfast from €2.70, Lunch from €9.

Dinner menu €17.95 (Sun-Thurs) €25 (Fri-Sat) Ciutat 5 | Metro Jaume I | 93 304 2376 | 691 504 942 noche@magnoliabarcelona.com | www.magnoliabarcelona.com | www.facebook.com/magnolia.rna Mon-Thurs 9am-1am, Fri 9am-3am, Sat 1pm-3am, Sun 1pm-1am

4/24/14 12:57:31 PM

HEALTH

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 43

BUSINESS

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS.

to advertise in this section call: 93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com see also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

Sanz Pancko Dental Clinic -

Nart Dental Clinic - DeNtist this state-of-the-art clinic is located close to la sagrada familia and directed by english speaking dentist Dr. Jose Nart, Usa trained and Chairman for the Department of periodontology and implant Dentistry at (UiC). he obtained his phD in Dentistry with the highest degree. their specialist team uses the latest technology to ensure the best possible results. Call now and ask about special Metropolitan reader discounts and offers.

DeNtist sanz pancko Dental Clinic in Barcelona and terrassa provides excellent oral care in an englishspeaking environment. Dr Nancy pancko, an american dentist trained at Columbia University in New York, is an American Board-certified orthodontist.

Dr Javier sanz is an american Boardcertified periodontist and implantologist who lectures on periodontal technological advancements and leads research projects at the university. together, they provide comprehensive and affordable dental care

Padilla 368, 08025 Metro: Alfons X (L4) T. 93 456 7003 jose@nartperiodoncia.com www.nartclinicadental.com

Rogent 40, local 2, 08026 Metro: Clot (L1, L2) T. 93 246 9043 www.clinicadentalsyp.com Open Mon-Fri 9am-8.30pm

Dr. Boj - DeNtist Dr. Boj and his team provide specialised comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic treatment for children and teens. Dr. Boj also lectures about all treatments related to these age groups, including laser dentistry.

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

Dra. Susana Campi - DeNtist Abaden Dental Group - DeNtist for all your dental needs, a team consisting of their first-class professionals can offer you excellent treatment. they have more than 30 years of experience and are pleased to offer you their services in english, german, french, italian, spanish and Catalan.

Rosselló 95, local, 08029 Metro: Hospital Clínic (L5) Entença (L5) T. 93 322 9114 Fax. 93 322 0220 susanacampi1980@gmail.com www.clinicadentalcampi.com

MP 43-48 May 2014.indd 43

advanced Dentistry in Barcelona.

Methodology: a primary distinctive at abaden is the high value we place on group clinical consultation. During our 28 years of business our dentists across all specialities meet together regularly to collaborate and review patient cases. this group’s clinical case consultation system is a proven method that guarantees accurate patient diagnostics and higher quality service. procedures: implantology (single, multiple or full teeth recovery), aesthetics, orthodontics and general dentistry languages: english, russian, french and portuguese.

Abaden Diagonal - Agustina Saragossa 9-11 (08017) Abaden Sants - Marques de Sentmenat 82 (08029) Abaden Vall d’Hebron - Arenys 89-93 (08035) T. 90 064 9162 (Toll-Free for national calls) Open Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-7pm www.dentistsbarcelona.com

4/24/14 2:20:15 PM

44

HEALTH

BUSINESS DIRECTORY NEST - Network of English Speaking Therapists

Nick Cross - PSYCHOLOGIST / PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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.

Nick Cross is a registered psychologist, specialising in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can help you with the causes of distress and unhappiness and it provides treatment for anxiety, fears, relationship difficulties, depression, problems adjusting, loss and trauma.

M. 644 193 825 ncross@copc.es

www.barcelonaNEST.com

FREE CONSULTATION

Jonathan Lane Hooker -

Hestia - PSYCHOTHERAPY The Hestia International Centre of Psychotherapy has become a reference in the city. The professional team works with individuals, couples and families through psychotherapy, coaching, counselling, clinical hypnosis, art therapy, NLP and EMDR. They speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, German, Portuguese, Greek, Polish, Swedish, and Catalan. The first consultation is free.

NEW CITY CENTRE OFFICE

Psychotherapist 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.

Passeig Sant Joan 180 Pral 2a Metro: Joanic (L4) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es

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

Bianca Kruk - THERAPIST

Pharmacy Serra Mandri CHEMIST

Bianca Kruk at Ganesha Healing is a certified therapist in: Naturopathy, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Ear Acupuncture and Quantum Kinesis. She is a member of the Asociación de Profesionales de las Terapias Naturales. Treats: Physical and emotional rebalancing, Pain and stress relief, anxiety, depression, Chronic and acute conditions, Nutritional advice, pregnancy discomforts. All ages welcome! To find out more visit the web or call Bianca directly. Dutch, English, German, Italian and Spanish spoken.

The helpful and qualified pharmaceutical staff at this wellknown Barcelona chemist 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. The pharmacy is open 365 days a year and also offers a home delivery service.

M. 654 393 629 ganeshahealing@gmail.com www.ganeshahealing.wix.com/engl

Av. Diagonal 478 Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) Chemist T. 93 416 1270 Homeopathy T. 93 217 3249 Open every day 9am-10pm

Clínica Masculina Europea -

Mary D. McCarthy - DOCTOR

MEDICAL CENTER Clínica Masculina Europea is one of the most pioneering medical centers at a national level.

The most common sexual dysfunctions treated are: Erectile dysfunction, Early Ejaculation, Penile Curvature, Perturbation of sexual desire.

Doctor for Adults

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.

Urologic problems: Prostate Symptoms, Fimosis, Vasectomy.

Valencia 281 Entlo. 2º, 08009 T. 93 219 3060 info@clinica-masculina.com www.clinica-masculina.com

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

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

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HEALTH · BUSINESS SERVICES

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

Dr. Steven Joseph4DOCTOR 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.googolmedicalcentre.com

€15 OFF

Tania Spearman4ACUPUNCTURE Make acupuncture your first choice, not your last resort! Tania is offering all Metropolitan readers a 15 discount on first appointments with this voucher.

Acupuncture treats many conditions from pain, stress and depression to infertility and more. English, Spanish and German spoken.

Enric Granados 133, 4-1 bis | M. 644 322 161 | info@taniaspearman.com | www.taniaspearman.com

Víctor Sánchez Vaqué

Krishinda Powers Duff Bsc Hons - Midwife Krishinda is a fully-qualified and trained British midwife offering home birth and home dilatation services.

She also provides antenatal and postnatal care and support to mothers and babies for six weeks after birth.

She is supported in her practice by a team of Spanish but British-trained midwives and alternative health care professionals as well as a breast feeding consultant/Doula.

Midwife means ‘to be with woman’.

Marenostrum Centre de Salut familiar

Fontanella 16 Principal, 08010 M. 665 143 437 krishinda@gmail.com www.barcelonamidwife.com

Husky’s -

Fletcher Consultancy Ltd -

IMMIGRATION BUREAU

CONSULTANCY

HUSKY´S IMMIGRATION BUREAU provides consulting services in the fields of Immigration Law and real estate.

They ensure quality service through professional experience since 2007 and Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs official accreditation. Their English, Russian and Spanish speaking experts are aware of all the latest changes in Spanish legislation and offer a full range of services for all types of residence permits in Spain or Andorra.

Fletcher Consultancy Ltd. now operates in Spain providing tailored training and development services for managers and employees, development and access to UK qualifications for ex-pats, HR services for development of competence based systems. Our UK business services blue chip clients in both public and private sectors. We have special offers for new clients, including free mystery shopping and training needs analysis.

T. 93 218 1750 info@spain-immigration.es www.spain-immigration.es

shirleydirect@aol.com M. +44 799 053 4331 www.fletcherconsultancy.co.uk www.nvqenespana.com

Víctor Sánchez Vaqué -

Sánchez Molina -

BUSINESS LAWYER

LEGAL PRACTICE

As a business lawyer and legal consultant, Víctor Sánchez Vaqué offers legal advice and assistance to foreign and local companies and individuals in contracting, licensing, negotiation, investment projects and other legal areas of business in different sectors.

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.

M. 616 233 333 vsanchez@icab.cat

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

Spain Accounting Tax AND Accounting services Qualified UK accountant with 25 years’ experience in Spain offers: · Tax services for freelance ‘autónomos’ & companies · Income tax returns for employees & non-residents · Registration of ‘autónomos’ & company incorporation (SL) · Practical advice on setting up a business in Spain · Fast, reliable email service

Call David Cook 678 702 369 info@spainaccounting.com www.spainaccounting.com

MP 43-48 May 2014.indd 45

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 45

ARC97SL - OFFICE AND HOME IMPROVEMENTS 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.

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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46 BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BUSINESS SERVICES · SCHOOLS

Mrs.Q design studio -

Easi-Sat - teleVisioN serViCe

graphiC DesigN

GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO BUSINESS PACKAGES logo design - stationery - advertising

POSTERS & BROCHURES wedding stationery

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

10% DISCOUNT

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

Corsa - DriViNg sChool

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.

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!

Ask for the special Metropolitan reader offers

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

Just Royal -

STOP N’ DRIVE -

CookiNg workshop

DriViNg sChool

Just royal is a Mediterranean cooking school that teaches you how to create authentic spanish dishes using traditional ingredients. Chef alfredo rodriguez will teach you his special industry secrets and recipes that will impress friends when you return home. the workshops are great fun if you’re looking for activities for friends and family that are visiting. they also make a great alternative for your birthday celebrations and even corporate team building activities.

stop by their driving school to learn about how you can get your spanish (european) driving license in english and from home! Don’t let time be your excuse. Stop N’ Drive is the first driving school in Barcelona that instructs you through online videos and offers intensive courses lasting only two weeks, between 7.30pm to 10pm. stop N’ DriVe Driving school courses are low-cost, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with them and start your journey.

Become a driver in Barcelona!

Plaza Real 3, B, 08002, M. 636 869 855 espacio@justroyalbcn.com www.JustRoyalBCN.com

Bejar 67, 08014 (Between plaza España and Sants Estació) www.aestopndrive.com

BERLITZ - sChool

BCN BABEL -

at Berlitz language school they have a teacher available for you whether you take face-to-face classes or through their virtual classroom with a huge range of courses available for english, french, german, russian and spanish. their amazing online platform has more than 218 specialties which can be adapted to fit your needs. Their one-day business workshops can also add the finishing touch to your professional language needs. 10% discount with this advert.

Av. Diagonal 382, 08037 Tel. 93 215 0100 barcelona1@berlitz.es www.berlitz.es Mon-Fri 8am-09.30pm

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BOOK NOW FOR A FREE DEMO

Geo Mac - CoMpUters

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

10% DISCOUNT FOR GROUPS OF 6+

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. they have solutions for loss of Uk channels, with or without a dish. New iptV is the solution to viewing Uk freesat channels, BBC’s, itV’s, al Jazeera sports 1-10, and many more. follow them on facebook/easisat and twitter ‘@ paulDuval15’.

Mrs.Q Design studio offers a range of specialised services from branding to graphic design, web design, ceramics, photography and bespoke invitations. she will help you bring some of your personality to your brand and use her knowledge of colour, passion for typography and creative flair to create an identity that engages your customers. Contact Mrs.Q for her competitive business packages. she specialises in bespoke wedding invitations, tailor-made to suit the style of your wedding. Designed with love!

laNgUage sChool BcnBabel is a language school in the centre of Barcelona. (Urgell) they offer language courses in a cosy environment, offering extensive courses in spanish and Catalan all year round. they also offer intensives in July and august for a very reasonable price of 340. all classes are in small groups (maximum of 8 people per class) at very convenient times for tourists or Barcelona residents who want to learn the language in a fun and dynamic way.

Comte Urgell 47 Metro Urgell (L1) / Sant Antoni (L5) T. 93 141 1644 M. 660 235 736 hola@barcelonababel.com

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SCHOOLS · BEAUTY

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 47

Coral - spaNish teaCher Reach a Spanish level that best fits your time, interests and needs! try Coral’s personalised courses using interesting and effective methods that make learning easy. she will come to your home or business and provide the material. all levels; private or small groups (up to 3). 60-min class 25; 90-min class €35. If you need classes via skYpe, she can also offer online lessons. she is a native, experienced and highly-qualified teacher.

M. 676 249 744 coral@coralprada.com

HAIR CUT €15 + HOT SHAVE €25

BCN Cuts - BarBer shop Directly from Boston to gràcia comes BCN Cuts Barber shop to offer you time to relax surrounded in a welcoming environment. with a drink in hand and jazz music playing in the background, you can have a hair cut or try their hot lather shave the classic way. BCN Cuts is a traditional barber shop with a contemporary atmosphere. You will keep coming back for the excellent service.

Gran de Gràcia 223 T. 93 611 1813 bcncuts@gmail.com Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm

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

10% OFF

The Vital Touch - Massage the Vital touch Massage clinic helps you relax, energise, re-balance and improve your health and lifestyle with a therapeutic, holistic full-body massage.

- enjoy a winter massage wrapped in hot towels, breathing in the essence of warm oils on your skin!

- 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.

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

Linline Clinic - laser CosMetologY liNliNe clinic is the largest laser cosmetology clinic in russia and Cis. after more than 13 years of operating in the area of laser cosmetology, they have gained much respect from patients and have performed over 100,000 successful laser procedures. they offer a wide range of modern laser treatment methods that solve numerous aesthetic imperfections. laser procedures include: laser epilation, treatment of vascular skin diseases, scar correction, tattoo removal, laser polishing, nano perforation, photorejuvenation, treatment of skin hyperpigmentation, removal of moles and warts, and many more. they can assure you that all services are provided by highly skilled dermatologists and surgeons, certified in cosmetology with a particular focus in laser cosmetology. trust professionals, choose only the best!

Pau Claris 140, bajos, 08009 T. 93 528 5935 info@linline.es www.linline.es www.linline-clinic.ru/en

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Beauty Planet hair aND BeaUtY leave behind your daily routine and prepare for a range of sensational treatments at Beauty planet. they offer each client a completely customised service, including aesthetic advice from their experts.

Beauty planet hair and beauty in Barcelona has a team of hair professionals to ensure you receive the highest quality, comprehensive service.

Diputació 197, 08011 T. 93 512 2360 info@beautyplanetbcn.com www.beautyplanetbcn.com

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48 DIRECTORY

SHOPPING for more shopping visit our online directory www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/shopping

AMANTIS

Torrent de l’Olla 145 · M: Fontana · T. 93 501 0641 · www.amantis.net

Situated in the heart of Gracia, amantis is a new erotic haven where you’ll find thousands of reasons to not get out of bed.

Offering a large variety of erotic toys, oils and lubricants, erotic shoes, condoms, books and DVDs, amantis has something for every gender and sexuality. Soon to offer workshops and activities.

OJALA!

Ciutat 14 · T. 93 601 1830 · www.ojala.es · Mon-Sat 10am-8,30pm

KITSCH

Muntaner 17-19 (Eixample) L1/L2 (Universitat) · T. 93 453 2052 info@kitsch.es · www.kitsch.es Open Mon-Sat 10am-10pm

Opened in 1978, Kitsch is Spain´s very first sex shop. The shop offers a wide range of toys from quality brands like LELO, Fun Factory, Iroha, Tenga and WeVibe, as well as condoms, books, lingerie, movies and more. The shop also arranges guided tours and talks by psychologists/ sexologists. They have an extensive online shop too.

OJALA! is the fashion brand by Paloma Del Pozo, hailed as one of today’s most original and creative Spanish designers. Her new Barcelona boutique is located on a charming street in the Gothic quarter, only 50 metres from the Plaça Sant Jaume. Del Pozo designs joyful, colourful and elegant quality garments that will make any women stand out in a crowd.

BCN PAINTING ROUTE

Carrer de Lledó 17 · T. 93 319 9178 bcnpaintingroute@outlook.es · www.facebook.com/BCNPaintingRoute

New gallery in the heart of the Gothic quarter showcasing oil paintings on canvas and other works of art. High quality paintings starting from just 40 The perfect place to find the perfect painting of Barcelona.

PARRUP

Banys Nous 17 · www.parrup.com www.facebook.com/ParrupBarcelona

PARRUP brings together the best from local designers, carefully selected unique pieces, limited edition products and finely crafted clothes, jewellery, art and furniture.Why PARRUP? Because they love talented people. Because they want to showcase what they can offer. Because they believe in the local economy and production transparency. Because they don’t believe in the ‘made in Asia’ business. Nothing more but nothing less.

24 KILATES

Comerç 29 · T. 93 268 8437 · www.24-kts.com

Plaça Virreina 7, 08012 · T. 93 218 6907 · www.bateaulune.com · info@bateaulune.com www.facebook.com/bateaulune

Bateau Lune is a traditional toy shop for kids where you can find a large variety of traditional toys including; wooden bicycles, trains, also micro scooters, also kites and outdoor games and many more rare and original toys. Go visit them today and get ideas for special occasions such as birthday presents and Christmas gifts.

Check out their free activities for children twice a month on the Virreina square in Gràcia!

MICROGESTIO

València 87/89 · T. 93 454 1001 · info@microgestio.es www.microgestio.com

Located in the Born shopping area, this exclusive streetwear store has become internationally renowned thanks to its exciting design collaborations with many famous brands like New Balance, Stussy, Reebok, Lacoste, Puma, Asics, Nike, Saucony, Adidas, New Era and more. Definitely worth a look.

Need help with your Mac? Want to buy an iPad? Microgestió supplies everything a Mac user needs, including service and repairs, classes on how to use different programs, useful tutorials, and the latest new products on the market. You can count on Microgestió for all of your Mac needs... and a friendly, professional service!

ARTSHOP

FURTIVO SKATEBOARDING

Sitges 7 · T. 93 676 2311 · www.facebook.com/Artshopbcn

Located close to Plaça Catalunya, the Artshop has a full range of artist supplies and a small family gallery. If you need a simple watercolour set or any other specialist items, they can be bought or ordered for you at the shop.

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BATEAU LUNE

www.furtivoskateboarding.com

Furtivo Skateboarding is an online skateboarding shop with selected products of premium brands, offering hi-end skateboarding products. Pro-Models represent 80 percent of their stock.

You can find: Plan B, Flip, Blind, Cliché, Darkstar, Enjoi, Element, BLVD, Toy Machine, Foundation and many more. They deliver world wide in 24 to 48 hours. Register now to take advantage of their offers and promotions.

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DIRECTORY 49

JOBS 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.classiďŹ eds.barcelona-metropolitan.com

WOULD YOU LIKE TO WORK AS A MODEL? We are looking for new models & actors for 2014. We are interested in candidates of all types and ages.

You can drop by our offices from Monday to Friday: 10:00-13:00 & 16:00-18:00 Email your cv to : jma@modelos.net Visit our website: www.modelos.net Dolors Masferrer i Bosch, 20-22, entlo, 08028

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50 BACK PAGE

Hector Ayuso 41, Valencia, Spain

Founder of OFFF Festival

I get inspired by the people I meet, the things I observe in my daily life, music and most importantly, movies. Films have always been there for me, helping me to get inspired and motivated. I have been collecting movies ever since I discovered their magic. From bad to brilliant ones, I learn each day from my collection of 3,000 Blu-rays which is forever growing.

Nobody knows what the future holds. The fun part of living your life is not knowing what’s waiting for you; sometimes you decide your future and other times the future brings you surprising wonders. If I had to choose one thing that I would like the future to hold for me, it would be to direct my own movie and feeling every day’s never-ending excitement.

As cheesy as this will sound, Barcelona has always been at the centre of my heart. I’m a runner and I love to run on its streets, eat tapas in its restaurants or its crowded markets, and explore the wonderfulness hidden inside the bookshops and record stores across the city. Barcelona has always been an ‘alive’ city. You can feel the happiness and the real energetic vibes coming from the people living here.

Photo by Jean-Marc Joseph

By Ben Rowdon

SCOOP

I moved to Barcelona when I was just 18 years old to study cinema. That’s when I first fell in love with it, and I haven’t left since. Barcelona offered me everything, professionally and personally. I was surrounded by artists and people with a lot of positive energy. It gave me the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. The city has allowed me to discover something new every day. I lived in Gràcia for 20 years and I have recently moved to Poblenou, a neighbourhood I’m still exploring and falling in love with more and more each day.

OFFF Festival was born as a mission to join people together all around the world in one place, a place to get inspired, to play and to meet the talented artists out there. It’s a threeday adventure for everyone wishing to enjoy, learn and leave as a different person who’s able to change their life.

I first came up with the idea when I was sitting one day on my couch thinking of all the things I wanted to do. I wanted to attend an event that could change my life; teach me and offer me the chance to exchange inspiration with people, that’s why I decided to organise OFFF, a festival that will leave as much impact on me as on my audience.

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