Barcelona Metropolitan Issue 225

OCTOBER 2015 Nยบ 225

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JUST THE JOB

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK Follow the Via Ferrata

FUNGHI FETISH?

Unleash your inner hunter-gatherer

Finding your perfect position

SEASONAL CHANGE

5 ways

to update your winter wardrobe

PLUS! ART 01 cover NEW.indd 1

MUSIC

FASHION

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

A PLACE OF MY OWN

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METROPOLITAN contributors

contents {ISSUE 225} OCTOBER 2015

reGuLars 06 08 10 33 34 36 49 50

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

CHRISTINA mCKEON FRUTUOSO Christina is a third year student at Durham University, studying Spanish and Classics. Originally from London, she is working for Metropolitan as an editorial intern as part of her year abroad—a year away from Durham and an opportunity to immerse herself in this vibrant city. Having spent the summer travelling around Perú and having previously worked in Santander and Cádiz, she is now ready to start the new chapter that combines her ideal job in her ideal city.

LAURA BONICELLI Laura graduated from

Features 12 rePort: LanD oF oPPortunitY Can living in Barcelona be good for your career?

Sam Mednick looks at how to make the city work for you.

18 Photo reViVaL A group of photography fans is bringing the printed image back to life.

30 FunGhi ForaGinG Mushroom hunting is a much-loved autumn tradition in Catalunya.

29 soMethinG oLD, soMethinG neW A little creativity is all you need to get your wardrobe in shape for the cooler weather.

34 LiFe on the eDGe Take a leap outside your comfort zone on the Via Ferrata.

What’s on 20 22 24 26

the University of Birmingham in 2014 and has spent the last year working and travelling, spending five delightfully long months in Southeast Asia. Since returning she has been enjoying the summer in Barcelona whilst working at Metropolitan, and hopes to move to London this autumn to start her career.

She moved to Barcelona seven years ago with her family, but still loves to get lost in Ciutat Vella and discover its quirky little streets.

Music Art Misc.

Pullout Calendar

Directories 41 43 44 49

Food & Drink Health & Beauty Business Jobs

Publisher Creative Media Group, S.L. Managing Director Andrea Moreno Consulting Editor Esther Jones Editor Carol Moran Art Director Aisling Quigley Account Executives Jalil Alui, Richard Cardwell, Nicolás Zdravko Reyes Editorial Assistants Rachel Huffman, Laura Bonicelli, Kathryn Todd, Alex Mackintosh Design Assistant Kirsty Moore Contributors Anthony Bain, Miquel Hudin, Melissa Leighty, Sam Mednick, Sam Zucker Photographers Yan Pekar, Erika Savander Illustrator Ben Rowdon Editorial: editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Advertising: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com General: info@barcelona-metropolitan.com Carrer de la Ciutat 7 2ª-4ª, 08002 Barcelona. Tel. 93 451 4486 www.barcelona-metropolitan.com The views expressed in Barcelona Metropolitan are not necessarily those of the publisher. Reproduction, or use, of advertising or editorial content herein, without express permission, is prohibited. Depósito legal: B35159-96

SAM MEDNICK A Toronto native, Sam is a professional life and executive coach.

She also co-hosts an English-speaking radio show and works as a freelance journalist for USA Today, Metropolitan and other publications. Sam’s most recent work took her to the Turkish/ Syrian border, where she focused on the humanitarian crisis and the civil war.

See www.blueprintcoaching.ca and listen to English Radio every Friday at 9am on 106.9 or download the podcast from iTunes: ‘Barcelona English Radio’.

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IN THE CITY

new IN TOWN

SWEET HISTORY

LA DOLCE VITA

ORIGANO. ARAGÓ 209.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ORIGANOCUCINASICILIANA When Valentina and Maurizio, originally from Palermo, moved to Barcelona a year ago, they decided to bring a little bit of their native Sicily with them. They opened Origano with the aim of taking the most authentic Sicilian dishes and flavours—pistachios, cannoli, swordfish, arancini—and serving them as they would in their own home. They wanted to run the restaurant and do most of the cooking themselves, so they purposely chose a small venue with a relaxed, homey feel. The menu is short and sweet and changes every month, ensuring that the food is fresh and always carefully prepared from scratch. It features much-loved Sicilian classics such as baked cassata, a ricotta-filled pie, as well as lesser-known traditional dishes like gelo di melone, a watermelon pudding garnished with cinnamon and shavings of chocolate. “We wanted to have things on the menu that people may not necessarily have heard of, but that we often make and enjoy at home,” explained Valentina. “Food is a big tradition in Sicily. Everyone gets together and cooks—you know, la mamma, la nonna, everyone.”

FABORIT. CASA AMATLLER. PASSEIG DE GRÀCIA 41.

WWW.FABORIT.COM Passeig de Gràcia has no shortage of places to grab a café con leche but its latest offering is housed in the splendor of one of the street’s most famous buildings. Next door to Gaudí’s Casa Batlló, is Casa Amatller, lesser-known, but equally as enchanting. Within these Modernista walls, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, is Faborit, an urban cafe and healthy eatery. In keeping with the history of the building, which was originally designed to house chocolatier Antoni Amatller, the cafe specialises in chocolate-based products and drinks. But that’s not all. You can also take your pick from a variety of salads and sandwiches, freshly made juices and speciality coffees. Once the choice is made, it’s outside to the peaceful terrace—a quiet oasis on one of the city’s liveliest streets—to sit back, relax and enjoy.

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THINGS TO DO

IN OCTOBER

EAT CHESTNUTS

THE BIG EASY

AMICS DE NOLA. DIPUTACIÓ 206. WWW.AMICSDENOLA.COM The first thing you notice when you walk into this new members-only club is the photographs of New Orleans plastered on the walls. Together with the colourful beads, masks and other Mardi Gras-themed decorations placed here and there, you’re transported 5000 miles across the Atlantic to the birthplace of jazz. The objective of Amics de NOLA is to bring life in New Orleans to Barcelona. So, when it’s Mardi Gras there, rather than celebrate Carnaval, the club will throw a Mardi Gras party. Kick back in this sophisticated space where you can relax and chat while listening to top-quality jazz and sipping on New Orleans-style drinks such as Abita, a crisp imported beer exclusively available here in Barcelona. Members pay a small membership fee, which goes towards supporting causes related to the city, making the establishment well deserving of its name—friends of NOLA.

Forget Halloween and enjoy the more gentle Catalan tradition of the castanyada. Head to your local square and bakery and celebrate October 31st with an autumnal feast of freshly roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes and marzipan panellets.

TERROR IN SITGES Head to Sitges between October 9th and 18th for this annual celebration of horror and fantasy cinema and a packed programme of classics and new releases. www.sitgesfilmfestival.com

BECOME A DJ Fancy yourself as a DJ? The Siranga Music and DJ Academy is offering beginner and advanced courses in the art of spinning discs.

The week-long beginner course costs €300. Find out more at http:// cursosdjbarcelona.es

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SUNNY SIDE UP

UGOT. VILADOMAT 138.

If it’s brunch you’re after, Barcelona can deliver. UGOT, however, has more to offer than just eggs and coffee. The name of the cafe means ‘cake’ in Hebrew—a nod to the owner’s Israeli roots and to the abundance of beautiful cakes on offer. All of the daily changing cakes and sweet treats are made in-house by owner Adi Nachshon. The food options are a take on the modern brunch with all the usual suspects, but the most popular dish is the typical Israeli breakfast of shakshuka—a spicy poached egg dish. Nachshon is also responsible for the restoration of the space and the quirky and comfortable interior decor, explaining “our intention is to create an original and cosy ambience in the heart of the city.”

UGOT has achieved just that by combining a traditional British tea room with a modern twist—think vintage armchairs that you can sink into and china teapots alongside flamingo print wallpaper and exposed brick walls.

CRUNCH SOME LEAVES Take the ferrocarril to Baixador de Vallvidrera and enjoy an autumnal walk around the Pantano de Vallvidrera. Flat and scenic, and perfect for a gentle Sunday afternoon.

PLAY PING PONG The city generously supplies ping pong tables in many parks and you can get kitted out in Decathlon for less than €10. True enthusiasts can head to Luz de Gas for a drink and a match at Ping Pong Fridays.

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IN THE CITY

streetlife JOAQUÍN COSTA

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LES TOPETTES Joaquín Costa 33 Allow your sense of smell to guide you to this perfumery and cosmetics shop. The aim of Les Topettes is to offer a personalised alternative to the usual commercial cosmetics experience. The bright and airy space hosts a range of high quality beauty products from international brands, including Diptyque, Tokyomilk and Hierbas de Ibiza.

METROPOLITAN PEOPLE DIANA

27, WEB DESIGNER AND DIGITAL MARKETER

To invent something which would make people’s lives easier. Something which would allow me to bring colour to the world.

KOMO EN KASA Joaquín Costa 3 The name Komo en Casa, explains owner Gustavo Eguia, means two things: ‘eat at home’ and ‘feel at home’, both of which apply to this quaint corner eatery. “The idea is to make people feel at home”, whether sipping a coffee, tucking into some Argentinian-inspired empanadas or people watching out of the large open windows.

Eguia points out the importance of the half-in-half-out window seats, which enhance the friendly, community atmosphere that the space embodies, allowing passersby to interact with customers and vice versa.

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Named after the economist and liberal politician of the same name, Joaquín Costa is a hub of activity. Located in the Raval, both young and old flock here for the eclectic range of bars, shops and cafes, along with an abundance of new businesses setting up shop along the pedestrian-friendly street. The diversity of the area means it’s the perfect place for a stroll and a bit of people watching.

CAROL’S CUPCAKES Joaquín Costa 47 This unassuming cupcake haven is run by Diana Orellana Redrovan who realised a lifelong dream when she opened shop last month.

“I started this as a hobby, but now it’s my work and I love it.”

Customers can treat themselves to one of the regular flavours or try the daily specials, which range from Kit Kat to Cookie Monster.

CASA ALMIRALL Joaquín Costa 33 If you’re looking for a traditional Catalan watering hole, then Casa Almirall, the oldest business on the street, is the one for you.

Founded in 1860, its timelessness is reflected in the original decor and elegant antique furnishings.

You can soak up the history and 19th-century charm whilst enjoying a house vermut or snacking on some anchovies.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?

ANATOLY

28, PROJECT BUYER/ MANAGER

I’d love to open my own private school, bringing back an element of tradition into today’s modern world.

FRANTISSHKA 35, MARKETING DIRECTOR

My dream job would be to work in a vineyard, perhaps as a wine-taster. Why? Because I love wine.

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 MOTHER Joaquín Costa 26 We all know it can be a task to get in your recommended five fruits and veggies a day, but the team at Mother are here to lend a helping hand. Owners Lili and Gemma said their goal is “to promote drinking veggies and eating fruit”. The juice bar is the first in Spain to specialise in the nutrient-retaining method of cold pressing the ingredients. Choose from a selection of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, plant-based and dairy free milks or a variety of healthy snacks, all organic and additive free.

TO BE CONCEPT BCN Joaquín Costa 9 A new addition to the street, To Be Concept BCN offers everything from bow ties made from recycled bicycle wheels to lights crafted from used Coca-Cola bottles. Owner and furniture creator, Luis Delpero, wants to showcase handmade items from local artists and explains, “I work with designers and products that you can’t find in places like IKEA. They’re unique.” Whether it’s a small gadget you’re looking for or a bespoke remodelled set of drawers, To Be Concept BCN has it all and provides it in a welcoming atmosphere.



MICHEL

36, ENTREPRENEUR

To work for myself, facing the consequences of my own decisions. I came to Barcelona to work towards my dream in the best environment possible.

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IN THE CITY

A place of MY OWN

KAT AND MILOŠ HAVE GIVEN THEIR HOME NEAR PARC GUELL AN ORIGINAL, WHIMSICAL FEEL. TEXT BY RACHEL HUFFMAN. PHOTOS BY TOBY GOLUS.

M

iloš and Kat met at university in South Africa. Kat was born and raised in South Africa, and Miloš moved there from Serbia around the age of 12.

Following graduation, they journeyed to Japan together to teach English for two years, after which time they didn’t really know what to do. “We knew we didn’t want to go back to South Africa right away,” said Miloš, so they settled on Barcelona as their next home base because it was a viable location for Miloš to set up a branch of his family’s music school. “We were basically jumping off the deep end,” said Kat. They didn’t visit first. They didn’t speak Spanish, much less Catalan. They didn’t know the ins and outs of starting a business in Spain. “It was terrifying,” Kat said in all seriousness.

The next few years proceeded as a long transitional period for her. It started with acute culture shock. “South Africa is more like America,” Kat explained. “You can get everything in one place.” As opposed to Barcelona—especially back in 2008 when they arrived—where you have to buy your veggies in one store, your chicken in another and your olive oil across town. “I was so stressed, like where is the peanut butter,” Kat said animatedly. They’ve also moved a lot over the years, which made them feel displaced.

“Actually, it wasn’t until we found this apartment and moved in that I truly felt settled here,” Kat acknowledged. Now the couple has a cat named Professor Zulu Puffling—whose daredevil, long distance pouncing accounts for the bamboo fences at the edges of their terrace—and they are expecting their first baby. Their business, Shine School of Music, is lucrative and still brings them joy. And they know which store sells which necessities for everyday life. “Now Barcelona feels like the place we live,” Miloš said.

When they first looked at this apartment—and were instantly reassured that Barcelona was right where they were meant to be—they were like “We’re taking it. How much money should we give you now?” “It had an ambience that was missing from all the other places we looked at,” Kat said. “Even though it has plenty of curious things about it.” For example, nothing is straight. No wall, floor or ceiling is perpendicular to another.

Two and a half years later, and the atmosphere of their home is even more vibrant, positive and creatively cosy thanks to Kat’s imagination and constant redecorating. “Kat’s personality and talent are so apparent throughout the whole space,” Miloš gushed.

Initially, they painted everything. Kat hated that every doorframe was a different colour, and they wanted more originality in the décor. But the adorning has never really ceased. “One week all the walls are pink, then she’ll get bored and do something else,” Miloš said. Kat responded sweetly, “I guess I’m lucky that he doesn’t seem to mind.” At one point, Kat started to construct the framework of a house inside the flat—she intended to stand the façade of her project next to the flat’s front door and the back on the other side of the living room, with its rafters over the couch and coffee table. Miloš drew the line there, and now just the faces of the ‘house’ line the entranceway, providing natural separation between the door and the

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living room.

Currently, the walls of the living room are pale pink, making their magenta couch pop, and upstairs their bedroom walls are baby blue, with a turquoise spiral staircase connecting the two floors. It’s not hard to figure out why they call this the ‘ice cream flat’.

Miloš often gets coerced into helping Kat bring her visionary interior designs to fruition. However, he insists that DIY is not his favourite hobby.

“I’m too much of a perfectionist,” he said. They have done a lot of work in the garden, as well, which he enjoyed. The leafy garden is nice, but quickly overlooked when you step onto their double-decker terrace and take in the view. Slightly to the left are the tiled tops of the buildings at the entrance of Parc Güell. Closer to the sky, you can clearly see the spinning Ferris wheel of Tibidabo. And the terrace’s proximity to the Collserola mountain range is virtually the most green you can relish while remaining in the city. The couple and their guests can appreciate all this from cushions or the blue hammock installed in the corner of the upper terrace.

“ONE WEEK ALL THE WALLS ARE PINK, THEN SHE’LL GET BORED AND DO SOMETHING ELSE,” MILOŠ SAID. Miloš and Kat furnished a lot of the apartment without ever entering a store. “We used to exclusively shop on the street,” Miloš said. And a majority of the decorations were done by Kat. She studied fine arts, and works as an illustrator. The illustrations hanging on the walls are narrativebased and add to the apartment’s whimsy. In one a young girl with pink hair and black eyeliner is posing with a giraffe on a lease made of delicate ribbon. Another shows a porcupine riding a bicycle almost as if in pursuit of an ice cream cone at the edge of the frame. “I don’t know why I always wind up painting girls and nature,” Kat pondered.

She further discussed how the girls in her paintings are characters of their own stories, and each picture is a snapshot of a moment in their lives.

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

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Barcelona Professional Women´s Network launches her:

MENTORING PROGRAM

On Oct 13 we kick start the program with a Women in Leadership Event.

“I like there to be an air of fantasy so people can make believe what they want about the girls,” she said. Kat also confessed she would feel weird with only her art in the apartment, so there are things people have gifted them and sentimental items from their travels displayed, as well.

Kat and Miloš have come a long way since that initial culture shock and have come to love so much about Barcelona. They can walk everywhere they want to go and are content with their life inside and outside of the ‘ice cream flat’.

Achieve your full professional potential through the PWN Barcelona mentoring program!

The Barcelona Professional Women’s Network (PWN) is excited to launch their professional mentoring program on October 13th.

This nine-month programme, which starts in November and is led

by Patricia Zeegers, brings together experienced businesswomen as well as corporate and entrepreneurial women who aim to grow and advance in their career or business.

The PWN mentoring programme already runs successfully in 21 different locations, having had more than 800 participants in 2014. Eighty percent of the mentees who completed the programme were promoted within 12 months.

Jacqueline van Paasen, co-founder of Status Unquo and executive presence and leadership coach, will kick-start the programme by introducing how gender might have shaped women's paths to leadership. In addition, she will speak about how to change the patterns of thinking that block women's paths to personal power and advancement.

October 13th. 7pm. Valkiria Hub Space, Carrer de Pujades, 126, Barcelona.

Entrance is free.

Tapas and networking included.

Registration needed.

For more information and registration: www.pwnglobal.net/barcelona If you have any questions then please call or email. mentoring@pwnbarcelona.net +34 666 362 221

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Anna works as a Project Assistant for a global health institute

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The Land of

Opportunity?

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HIGH UNEMPLOYMENT AND LOW SALARIES STILL MAKE BARCELONA A CHALLENGING CITY PROFESSIONALLY. BUT THE POSSIBILITIES ARE THERE IF YOU KNOW WHERE TO LOOK. TEXT BY SAM MEDNICK. PHOTOS BY YAN PEKAR

t’s a Barcelona conundrum, a question that foreigners and locals have been asking themselves for decades: Does a person have to sell their professional soul in order to live in this city? An apparent lack of career opportunities combined with low wages have forced many people to choose between quality of life and professional success, with many electing to return to their home countries when the time comes to get down to some serious work. The recent economic crisis intensified the situation, leading to an exodus of foreign residents in search of a more prospreous life elsewhere. Those who have chosen to stay may well be wondering what their prospects are for the future and whether the apparent economic recovery will enable them to stay in the city without compromising their professional life.

During the past seven years, Spain has seen the ranks of its unemployed swell to epic proportions, from eight percent in 2007 to 22 percent in July 2015—down from its peak of nearly 27 percent at the beginning of 2013. The country's youth has been hit particularly hard—nationally, the current unemployment rate is 48 percent amongst 16-24 year olds. This has more than tripled since 2007, when it hovered at around 13 percent.

In the European Union, only Greece has more unemployed people than Spain (25 percent). And, when you take into account that the average for the whole EU region is 11 percent and that in the UK, the unemployment rate is just 5.6 percent, the grass certainly starts to look greener elsewhere.

Barcelona has fared slightly better than the rest of Spain, with unemployment standing at 19 percent today—still a long way from the EU average, despite the city's dynamic tourist sector. Although things are certainly improving for the whole of Spain, the Catalan capital is still not an obvious choice for anyone looking to move up the career ladder.

And not only is Barcelona a tough place to find a job, it’s particularly hard to secure a well-paying job. With minimum wage sitting at around €5 per hour and a minimum annual salary of €9,000 (public sector), it’s no surprise that when it comes to the job scene many people have simply given up or are jumping ship, often to other countries.

Yet for those willing to stick it out, dig a little deeper and persist, finding a decent paying job and a stimulating career is not impossible. Barcelona is ripe with interesting, competitive and innovative options; tapping into them just requires the right know-how.

“This place is very much who you know,” said Seattle native, Anna Oje. Currently working as a Project Assistant for a global health institute dedicated to scientific research aimed at closing the gaps in health disparities around the world, Oje recounts how hard it was to make a living when she first arrived almost 10 years ago. “I came here lost,” Oje explained. “I was recently out of a relationship in the US and was heartbroken. I came to Europe for six months to find myself and discover my path.”

Reminiscing about her smorgasbord of jobs which included taking inventory during the night shift in industrial stores across Spain, to working in hostels and events, to flipping burgers at Betty Ford’s and even running her own ‘black market’ property rental company (before Airbnb hit the scene), at one point managing 13 apartments on her own.

Almost a decade later, the 35-year old said she’s ‘happy as a clam’ and living her dream job. The secret, claimed Oje, was perseverance.

As in all cities around the world, determination and persistence are important attributes when looking for work. In Barcelona, however, they are essential. “We’re still set in traditional ways in Spain,” said Marta Lopez, International Accounts Manager for Digital Minds (www.digital-minds. co.uk), a recruitment firm specialising in digital marketing, start-ups and advertising companies. Based in the UK, the Catalan native says Spain isn’t at the same level when it comes to jobs as some of the other countries her company works in.

“We’re not as organised in Spain. Organisations think that the right people will come knocking on their door, just because of the company name. They don’t realise that they need exposure online.” Lopez explained that there’s no central database for jobs in Barcelona like what exists in other countries. In the UK it's possible to find jobs through a variety of ways such as LinkedIn, job forums and company websites. In Barcelona, jobs aren’t as visible and, according to Lopez, this is a weakness in the sector.

There’s a huge disconnect in terms of the jobs that are available and the ones being offered, thus making it harder for viable candidates to find suitable positions. Lopez thinks the only way to speed up the process of change, is “for the candidate to set new expectations and be more competitive in the market.”

WHEN IT COMES TO CURRENT, ‘HOT SECTORS’ IN THE CITY, THE CRISIS HAS GIVEN WAY TO PLENTY OF NEW OPPORTUNITIES. WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE COMPETITIVE? “It is important to have an element of fearlessness,” said Irish native, Fiona Garvey. “The competition is tough and to get senior roles in Barcelona, you often need to get out of your comfort zone and be assertive and proactive.” With 14 years of life in Barcelona under her belt, the 41 year old has some impressive positions on her CV, working for various multinationals. However, the current vice president of one of the biggest software download companies in the world says it hasn’t always been easy landing the jobs she’s wanted. Garvey recounts the 10 months it took her to find a position before getting a role in her current company.

“It was frustrating and challenging, and it was a real stress. At times it seemed like nothing would ever turn up. In the end two great opportunities presented themselves.” In addition to patience and luck, Garvey maintains that if you want to get ahead you need to believe in yourself and be prepared to use all avenues including your network, friends as well as recruitment

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offices, and proactively contact companies you’d like to work for. “Don’t expect to find your dream job on LinkedIn.” Willem Van Oort and Brian Heinen, founders of Local Producer, (www.

Local-Producer.com) an events company, echo Garvey’s sentiments; it’s about putting yourself out there and exhausting all possible paths, especially if you want to have a competitive, professional edge.

In response to Barcelona’s disconnect between ‘jobs on offer and jobs available’, Van Oort and Heinen have created the Guiri Business Conference (conference.guiribusiness.com). On October 9th and 10th, they’ll be hosting the first event of its kind, aimed at bringing ‘supply and demand together’ and helping to give both people and jobs increased exposure.

“We have people looking for jobs and others who have jobs but can’t find candidates. We’re bringing all the parts together so people can talk to each other,” said Heinen, an American native who has been calling Barcelona home for almost 12 years.

As founder of the Guiri Business Professional Network for Foreigners (Guiribusiness.com), a platform designed to facilitate professional networking across Spain, he’s seen the market evolve, and although he recognises that it’s still not at 2006-2007 levels, Heinen says business is picking up. The biggest difference between 10 years ago and today is that now, people have to be more focused.

“Years ago there were very entrepreneurial people coming here saying, ‘Hey, let’s get involved in real estate, let’s do this, let’s do that…’ Now people are focusing their skills on opportunities that are sustainable instead of just doing anything.”

WHERE SHOULD YOU FOCUS YOUR ENERGY? Both on the industry and skills front, there are several ways to hone in and concentrate your efforts. When it comes to current, ‘hot sectors’ in the city, the crisis has given way to plenty of new opportunities.

In 2006, when San Diego native, Jordan Susselman, launched, Hi. This Is Barcelona (www.HiThisIsBarcelona.com), a boutique touring company providing private, customised experiences throughout Catalunya, he was one of only three others in the sector. Today, the 36 year old Barcelona ‘veteran’ of 15 years says the list of tour providers is endless and it’s something he attributes greatly to the crisis.

Fiona Garvey is vice president of a software company

ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO THRIVE IN BARCELONA IS TO BRING WHAT YOU KNOW TO THE TABLE. “A lot of companies who are now our direct competition began during the Spanish recession. They stopped what they were doing and went into tourism.” In what used to be one of the industry capitals of Europe, Susselman says that today, so much has changed.

“Now it’s all about tourism, tourism, tourism,” he stated. “If you’re looking for a job, this is a great sector with endless possibilities, there’s just a lot of competition.”

Dutch native, Kai Melchior Hensley agreed, saying that when he worked in the hospitality industry during the crisis, he barely noticed a thing as he was working in tourist-frequented places. As a seasoned waiter, who’s worked mostly in restaurants since arriving in 2009, Hensley says unlike in Amsterdam, people in Barcelona live from the hospitality industry. “In Holland it’s a student job, something to have extra money while studying.

Here, people do it as a full time profession; they’re not studying on the side.” Hensley said for those wanting to work in restaurants, the key is to look for places that you know are going to be busy all year round (not on the beach), and to target establishments with a more international ambience.

“Those are the places where you can get away with not speaking so much Spanish and where you’ll get more tips.”

Although Hensley didn’t speak a word of Spanish or Catalan upon arrival, he advises anyone coming here to learn the language. “It was very frustrating that when I first arrived, my CV was good enough but my language skills weren’t.”

>>

Kai Melchior Hensley works as a full-time waiter.

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Hensley said another frustrating factor when he arrived and one that still holds true today is the Spanish salaries. For a full-time restaurant job (40 hours a week) he is paid €1,200 per month, often not getting paid for overtime and with very few tips. As much as the industry’s expanding, Hensley thinks that salaries have actually decreased since he’s been here.

Spain’s infamous low wages are what have propelled people like Susselman to start their own ventures. “I realised that if I was really going to establish a life on the other side of the world from where I’m from," said Susselman, "I had to have a job that allowed me to have a flexible schedule and give me enough money to take advantage of that schedule to travel to the US for weddings and funerals. On a normal Spanish salary, that wasn’t possible.”

In response to both the low incomes and the crisis, more and more entrepreneurs have come out of the woodwork to wage their bets. This has resulted in another booming professional sector—the world of startups and technology. Barcelona is one of the fastest-growing cities for startups in Europe—a surge largely instigated by the onset of the crisis which has forced people to take matters into their own hands when it comes to jobs and salaries. It’s an industry that’s creating jobs and attracting talent, thus helping to refuel the economy.

Yet, industry aside, when it comes to skills and focusing one’s efforts, one of the best ways to thrive in Barcelona is to bring what you know to the table.

“Eight years ago, how many hamburger places were there in this city?” laughed Oje. “They’d bring you a small round thing, with no bread, they had no idea how to ‘do the hamburger’. Today there are tons of places.”

According to Oje, once you find something that works, if you do it well, you can grow it into a success. It’s about identifying a need and then using your expertise from wherever you’re from to make it work.

And for long-time foreign residents who have seen the city evolve into what it is today, keeping things sustainable is what it’s all about. “The hope is that over time the local economy continues to develop and mature so we have more sustainable jobs,” said Heinen.

So does one have to choose between quality of life and their career if they’re intent on living in Barcelona? Ultimately, professional success is subjective, but the tide does seem to be turning, and those who have weathered the crisis and cast their anchor are hoping they won’t have to choose.

“The key is to really keep believing,” said Garvey. “I have been really scared, but the truth is, despite challenges, all my friends who really wanted to stay here succeeded in staying. For me the experience and learning has been great. If you believe and want to stay, try all avenues and something will come.”

WHERE THE JOBS ARE

Jordan Susselman launched Hi. This Is Barcelona

Overall unemployment Rates:

Spain: 22.4% Catalunya: 19.1% Barcelona: 18.97%

SPAIN’S TOP SECTORS FOR ENGLISH SPEAKERS

PEOPLE WITH WORK IN BARCELONA:

CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES ASSISTANCE: Most call centres are looking for a variety of languages including: English, Finnish, German, Danish and a host of others.

One of the main customer service companies that hires often is Sellbytel: www. sellbytel.com.

STATISTICS AS OF JULY 2015

ENGINEERING: A recent study by recruitment company Manpower (candidate. manpower.com), found that engineering was the most sought-after qualification in Spain and that most international companies don’t require you to speak Spanish.

IT: There are plenty of tech jobs aimed at foreigners, including software testers and programmers. Manpower claims that local Spanish recruiters are looking for iOS and Android developers, SAP experts as well as SEO and SEM strategists.

ONLINE MARKETING: International internet companies often require English-speaking account managers as well as community and social media management jobs.

LANGUAGE TEACHING: It’s something many foreigners do when they first arrive.

Teaching your native tongue is a relatively quick and easy way to earn an income.

English and German are the most sought-after languages.

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2.314.810

Pr e 2 007 eco n o mic crisis

2.588.202

people with work IN CATALUNYA: STATISTICS AS OF JULY 2015

3.108.430 3.481.398 Pr e 2 007 eco n o mic crisis

Number of people on the Paro: STATISTICS AS OF JULY 2015

Barcelona: 377.981 Catalunya: 501.785

Pre 2007 economic crisis

Barcelona: 202.498 Catalunya: 255.575

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The Value of

Sharing AT A TIME WHEN ANYONE WITH A SMARTPHONE CAN SHARE THEIR PHOTOS with the world, one Barcelona-Based project is working to inject an element of tradition Back into the photography scene.

TEXT BY ANTHONY BAIN

W

hether we like it or not, the advent of the digital age of photography has irreversibly changed our lives. According to Samsung, 2.5 billion people around the world take pictures every day. Every minute, more than 200,000 photos are uploaded to Facebook and, with continuing advances in technology, newsworthy events can be instantaneously captured and shared across the world via a multitude of social media platforms using the simplest camera or phone.

The popularity of mass consumer technology has, at the same time, created a surge of enthusiasm for the days when photography was an altogether more complicated affair. In Barcelona, one particular group with a passion for the printed photo has taken things offline and begun to exchange printed photos in person, whether they be analogue, digital or Polaroid.

Picsharing, created in September 2012, is the brainchild of Elena Panzetta, an Italian cultural producer whose background is in communications. Her love of photography led her to create the group, which aims to counter the oversaturation of photography in the virtual world.

Panzetta’s goal was to create a social environment where people can interact and physically exchange photos, a place where like-minded people appreciate the intrinsic value of having a real photo in their hands. “In the climate of digital photography, the idea of continually pointing and shooting means that the reflectionist ideals of photography are lost. Many

photographers still practise artistic photography, which relies on the concept of picking your moments carefully. This is where the true art of photography lies.”

The initial idea was simply to bring photographers together, to share their mutual passion for the printed image. However, Picsharing has grown exponentially from its beginnings as an image exchange event to become a photographic exhibition, which now includes interviews and presentations from well-known figures in the art and photojournalism worlds.

Photographers are invited via the website (Picsharing.org) and social media pages to meet in a gallery or art space, where they can share ideas and exchange photographs. They bring printed photographs that are significant to them and that they wish to exchange. The photo does not need to be of a professional standard, and there are no limitations on the size or type of image, or even the technique used. The only requirements are that the picture should not be a photocopy, a postcard or an under or overexposed image.

The photographs are collected by designer and Picsharing collaborator Daniel Freire Figueiredo and presented as a wall mosaic of images. Each participant (or ‘Picsharer’) is assigned a number and they then exchange and share photos from the wall. “This idea of exchanging images harks back to childhood when we collected and traded stickers and collection cards,” said Panzetta.

A hashtag has been set up to follow the story of a photo once it has been exchanged: through #lanuevavidadetufoto, photographers can follow their

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GET SNAPPING! PHOTOGRAPHY CLASSES IN BARCELONA GRISART Méndez Núñez 14 www.grisart.com Metro: Arc de Triomf (L1), Urquinaona (L1, L4) This international photography school offers beginners three-month courses, as well as advanced courses, starting in January 2016 and again in April 2016.

DATECUENTA AT CENTRE CÍVIC BARCELONETA Conreria 1-9 www.datecuenta.org Metro: Barceloneta (L4) This photography school has been running for five years and offers a number of affordable courses for different levels. Class sizes are small.

INSTITUT D’ESTUDIS FOTOGRAFICS DE CATALUNYA Compte d’Urgell 187 www.iefc.cat Metro: Hospital Clínic (L5) Offering from beginner to professional classes, this photography school has classes starting in October, February and May. IDEP BARCELONA Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 461 www.idep.es Metro: Rocafort (L1) Idep offers a diploma in photography and contemporary creation, as well as more advanced masters courses in photography retouching, fashion photography and more.

ESCOLA MASSANA Hospital 56 www.escolamassana.es Metro: Liceu (L3) Photography classes start on November 13th with 60 hours of classes in total. Other artistic courses are also available at this centre of art and design.

photo’s new existence, both off and online.

In future editions of the event, Picsharers will be invited to present the story behind their photo to add another dimension to the image. “Many of the photographers document the details of the photo on the back to give a glimpse into the photograph’s story,” said Panzetta.

Previous editions of Picsharing have included Kike del Olmo, the author of Barcelona sin filtro (2013), who presented his reflections on Barcelona and the daily lives of its inhabitants via street photography. He often presents a darker side of the city, far from the cheerful images of holiday brochures and music videos.

Two well-known photojournalists from the World Press Forum, Oscar Dhooge and Sandro Gordo, presented a project entitled Raramente únicas (Strangely unique)—a photo documentary which reflects on the struggle of families of children affected by rare diseases. Similarly, Davide Camesasca, the Spanish delegate for ‘Shoot 4 Change’, showed his work for the nonprofit organisation, which is made up of photographers, designers and artists who shoot humanitarian reportages for NGOs. Other locals that have exhibited their work include photojournalist Stefano Buonamici, whose photographs centred on the code of ethics in photography, and artist Blanca Viñas whose project focused on the beauty of imperfection in an anti-aircraft bunker in Poblenou. Blanca explores the art of double exposure, mainly using Russian or British cameras made in the 1950s.

Picsharing is a way to keep the passion and intrigue of the physical photo alive, treasuring something real rather than a fleeting glimpse of a digital image in social networks. The very affirmation of day-to-day human existence lives in photography and the popularity and growth of Picsharing is testament to this.

BARCELONA PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS www.barcelonaphotographytour.com This company offers morning, afternoon and evening photography tours of Barcelona throughout the year as well as photography workshops.

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WHAT’S ON

MUSIC

HIGHLIGHT

IN CONCERT 2nd. Joe Satriani.

BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

2nd. Delorentos.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

3rd. Standstill.

Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113 3rd. Ryan Bingham.

Sala Bikini. Diagonal 547.

4th. Paula Rojo.

BARTS. Para lel 62.

5th. U2.

Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7.

5th. London Philharmonic Orchestra.

Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música 4-6.

6th. Asking Alexandria.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

10th. Ben Poole.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

11th. Mobilee Rooftop: All Stars Closing Party.

Hotel Silken Diagonal. Diagonal 205.

14th. The Sonics.

Sala Bikini. Diagonal 547.

16th. Bicep.

Nitsa. Nou de la Rambla 113.

17th. María Toledo.

Luz de Gas. Muntaner 246.

22nd. Chick Corea & The Vigil.

L’Auditori. Lepant 150.

23rd. Tori Sparks.

Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

23rd. Pablo Alboran.

Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7.

24th. The Bohicas.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

29th. Los Planetas.

L’Auditori. Lepant 150.

30th. Dubioza Kolektiv.

Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

31st. Apocalyptica.

Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

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CROSS CONTINENT

DÍAS NÓRDICOS. SALA APOLO, NOU DE LA RAMBLA 113 & MEAM, BARRA DE FERRO 5. OCTOBER 9TH & 11TH. The concept of this unique festival is simple: to bring nordic sounds to Spain with an eclectic programme of music. It takes place over two days in two separate venues. October 9th in Sala Apolo boasts a lineup including the likes of M-Band from Iceland, Finnish producer and singer Hisser and Swedish native duo Vita Bergen.

There’ll also be an intimate performance by Norwegian singer-songwriter Therese Aune at the Museu Europeu d’Art Modern on October 11th. The festival is the first multidisciplinary festival of music and nordic culture in Spain and a great opportunity for cultural exchange. The full lineup and more information can be found at www. diasnordicos.com

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS

LONDON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA. PALAU DE LA MÚSICA CATALANA, PALAU DE LA MÚSICA 4-6. OCTOBER 5TH. One of the world’s most distinguished orchestras, the London Philharmonic, balances its rich and successful history with forward-thinking methods for the future.

Founded by Sir Thomas Beecham in 1932, the LPO tours internationally, has formed its own record label and recorded film and video game soundtracks. Taking a break from its usual venue of London’s Royal Festival Hall, the London Philharmonic will join forces with the Orfeó Català and the Palau chamber choir in Barcelona’s most prestigious classical venue. The current conductor, Russian born Vladimir Jurowski, has a family history of musical success, with a conductor father and a grandfather who worked as a Soviet film music composer. Jurowski will lead the orchestra, alongside one of the greatest violinists of our time, Leonidas Kavakos, through a performance of works by Jean Sibelius and Johannes Brahms.

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

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DOWN TO EXPERIENCE

U2. PALAU SANT JORDI. OCTOBER 5TH, 6TH, 9TH & 10TH. Boasting a career spanning 40 years and a record 22 Grammy Awards, U2’s early days were marked by a self-confessed lack of knowledge regarding how to make music, with Bono stating in interviews that they were “a band before we could play”. Having decided that this was no obstacle, the foursome persevered— and the rest is history. A diverse career of musical experimentation, number one hits and social commentary ensued—the band is notable for their mid-concert efforts to call the White House in 1992 and their successful attempt to call into war-torn Sarajevo whilst live on stage. Their ‘U2 360° Tour’, remains the highest-attended and highest-grossing concert tour in history, so it’s safe to say that the group have a lot to live up to. With the ‘iNNOCENCE + eXPERIENCE’ tour, in support of recent album Songs of Innocence (2014), so far gaining rave reviews, it seems as though they’re on the right track. Whilst almost every date is sold out, tickets are still to be found on reselling sites so keep an eye out.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

LOS PLANETAS. L’AUDITORI. LEPANT 150.

OCTOBER 29TH. With over 25 acts performing at L’Auditori this autumn, the act that has everyone buzzing with anticipation is Los Planetas.

Starting out in the mid-Nineties, this indie-rock group from Granada launched themselves to national and international stardom, and could be considered as Spain’s answer to The Smiths. They received their earliest critical recognition with their hit ‘Qué puedo hacer?’ (What can I do?) from their first studio album, Super 8 (1994), and have gone on to win numerous awards including Best Alternative Rock Band and Best Album, awarded by the Academy of Arts and Sciences of Music. After a five-year hiatus, and having just performed at this year’s Benicassim Festival, Los Planetas are back and ready to show that their newest album, Dobles fatigas, has been worth the wait. www.auditori.cat

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WHAT’S ON

ART OPENINGS

PICASSO AND THE REVENTÓS. MUSEU PICASSO. OCTOBER 1ST JANUARY 10TH. This exhibition celebrates the friendship between the artist and the illustrious local Reventós family, giving the viewer a glimpse into a more personal aspect of Picasso’s life. Letters between the two are on show, many of them illustrated

by Picasso’s drawings, as well as a series of portraits by Picasso of the Reventós family. Picasso’s first meeting with brothers Ramon and Jacint Reventós Bordoy in 1899 sparked a friendship which would last generations. The artist’s bond with the Reventós family survived the Civil War and the death of Ramon Reventós Bordoy, and Picasso would later go on to support the family’s medical foundation, inspiring the creation of today’s Picasso-Reventós Foundation, which has supported the organisation of this exhibition. A must-see for fans of art and history alike.

MUSEU NACIONAL D’ART DE CATALUNYA 17th Century Still Life Paintings.

A collection of 15 still life paintings from artists from the Spanish Golden Age. October 8th to February 28th 2016. Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc.

ADN GALERIA Bouchra Khalili / Foreign Office.

In this project, photographer Bouchra Khalili visits various former foreign offices throughout Africa, Asia and America and questions why these important historical sights have been replaced and forgotten. October 1st to November 9th. Enric Granados 49.

LAST CHANCE LA VIRREINA Ricard Garcia Vilanova: Sparks in the Dark.

This photograph and video collection by Ricard Garcia Vilanova captures moments in the everyday lives of the residents of Abal al-Zawiya since the start of the ongoing Syrian Civil War. Until October 18th. La Rambla 99.

CAIXA FORUM 19th FotoPres “La Caixa”.

Ideas including identity, borders and violence are explored in the work of the winners of the 19th FotoPres “la Caixa”.

Until October 18th. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 6-8.

MUSEU NACIONAL D’ART DE CATALUNYA Del Segundo Origen.

Follow the evolution of Catalan art from 1950 to 1975—from after Dau al Set, the first artistic movement in Catalunya following WWII, until the end of Franco’s era. Until October 25th. Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc.

MUSEU D’HISTORIA DE CATALUNYA Més enllà de Mauthausen.

This photography exhibition commemorates 70 years since the end of World War II, with images by Francisco Boix depicting his time within the Mauthausen concentration camp. Until October 18th. Plaça de Pau Vila 3.

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© Sucesión Pablo Picasso, VEGAP, Madrid 2015

PICASSO AND FRIENDS

ARTS SANTA MONICA Figures del Desdoblament. Titelles, Màquines i Fils.

Through puppet theatre, visual theatre and object theatre, this exhibition explores the themes of struggles and yearning.

October 8th to January 10th 2016. La Rambla 7.

URBAN ARCHITECTURE

CARLOS BUNGA-CAPELLA. MACBA. OCTOBER 30TH-FEBRUARY 7TH. Having originally trained as a painter, artist Carlos Bunga’s work now explores the relationship between painting and sculpture, using everyday materials such as cardboard and adhesive tape to create structures that interact with the architectural surroundings in which they exist. It stands to reason, then, that for his exhibition in the Capella MACBA, Bunga has drawn inspiration from the building’s origins as a place of Catholic worship, as well as its urban environment of the Raval and Barcelona beyond. Bringing past and present together, the exhibition aims to revisit the building’s spiritual past in a reflective sense, as well as to question the use of public and urban space today. Having lived in Barcelona for the past six years, this is Bunga’s first solo exhibition in the city and promises to be both thought-provoking and visually impressive.

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

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ART CITY

BARCELONA GALLERY WEEKEND. ACROSS THE CITY. OCTOBER 1ST-4TH. WWW.BARCELONAGALLERYWEEKEND.COM Throughout the weekend, 40 venues across the city, including 21 art galleries and some museums, will be showcasing some of their finest work by an eclectic selection of artists for the first edition of this annual festival. Some will be displaying exhibitions by internationally renowned and established artists, such as Matt Mullivan and Mladen Stilinovi, while others have opted for up-and-coming local talent, including Perejaume and Antoni Llena. The artistic styles on offer will vary greatly, too, ranging from the classical to the avant-garde, with exhibitions including works from artists such as Joaquín Torres García, Joan Miró and Salvador Dalí, amongst many others. There are four suggested routes for visiting the galleries, two in the Eixample, one in Ciutat Vella and one in Montjuïc-l’Hospitalet. In addition to the general programme, a special project curated by Latitudes (Mariana Cánepa and Max Andrews), ‘Compositions’, aims to examine some of the lesser-known sides to the city through a series of temporary installations by local artists. For the full programme, visit www.barcelonagalleryweekend.com.

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

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WHAT’S ON

MISC. OPEN HOUSE

48H OPEN HOUSE BARCELONA. AROUND THE CITY. OCTOBER 24TH-25TH. WWW.48HOPENHOUSEBARCELONA.ORG 48H Open House Barcelona is Barcelona’s most important festival of architecture and is aimed at the general public rather than those already immersed in the industry of design and construction. Over the course of a weekend, over 150 buildings of all shapes and sizes will open to the public, showcasing some of the city’s most inspiring architecture that would otherwise remain behind closed doors. The people behind the buildings, including the architects who designed them and the people who currently occupy them, will come together for a series of free activities and conferences, with the aim of bringing the public closer to the city’s cultural heritage. The Open House project was founded in London in 1992, and was brought to Barcelona in 2010 as an initiative to re-engage the public with the city’s best architecture. The project has also spread to other architecturally rich cities around the world, including New York, Dublin, Galway and Tel Aviv.

LET’S GET VISUAL

MIRA. LIVE VISUAL ARTS FESTIVAL. ARTS SANTA MONICA, FABRA I COATS & RAZZMATAZZ. OCTOBER 30TH - NOVEMBER 7TH. WWW.MIRAFESTIVAL.COM Since its first edition in 2011, MIRA festival has been the birthplace of many audiovisual collaborations and opportunities. Its aim is to create a unique sensory experience through two weekends of exhibitions, installations, concerts, conferences, workshops and everything in between. During the weekend of the 30th and 31st, Arts Santa Mònica will host various free activities and masterclasses revolving around the topic of artistic vision, with a focus on new visual art trends, technologies and debates. Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy workshops, such as the MIRA Immersive Camp 2015—an immersive experience in the most advanced digital video creation techniques—and Fulldome Workshop 360º, which is led by international experts on the theoretical and technical aspects of dome-based audiovisual projection. To top it all off, there’ll be treats for the eyes and ears with performances by the likes of Vessels, Rival Consoles and Lenticular Clouds.

EXTRAVA-MANGA

21ST BARCELONA MANGA FAIR. FIRA DE BARCELONA MONTJUIC. AV. REINA MARIA CRISTINA. OCTOBER 29TH- NOVEMBER 1ST. The Manga market in Europe is worth well over 280 million, and no expense is spared at this year’s Manga Fair Barcelona. Manga includes all things related to Japanese comics, gaming and popular culture. You can expect to find a whole room dedicated to Japanese culture-icon Super Mario Bros, videogame workshops, manga workshops, as well as shiatsu classes, Japanese cuisine and plenty more throughout the weekend.This year’s festival welcomes special guest Tetsuya Tashiro, creator of the venerated Manga comic ‘Akame ga Kill!’. And there will be an opportunity to meet female Japanese pop band Tancobuchin who will perform on both Saturday and Sunday as part of their world tour. The epitome of any great Manga fair is its cosplay costume competition and Barcelona, being Barcelona, promises to go big. Dust off your favourite costume and get ready to be transported to the weird and wonderful world of Manga. www.manga-xxi.ficomic.com

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SIBLING RIVALRY

NABUCCO. GRAN TEATRE DEL LICEU. LA RAMBLA 51-59. OCTOBER 7TH - 22ND After the failure of his 1840 opera, Un giorno di regno, Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi swore that it would be his last. Fortunately, he was tempted out of early retirement and in 1842 premiered the work which he himself saw as the beginning of his operatic career: Nabucco, a tale of oppression, love and betrayal, that opened to huge success and revived Verdi’s spirit and credibility. Now, this operatic classic is given a modern-day edge by Italian director, Daniele Abbado. The story focuses on the Babylonian King Nabucco’s invasion of the Kingdom of Judea, and persecution of its people. Rivalry between his two daughters, Fenena and Abigaille, ensues, as Fenena hopes to liberate Nabucco’s conquered subjects, whilst Abigaille—spurred by jealousy—aims to take the throne and condemn them to death. Brought into the present day through imagery and stage design evocative of the Holocaust, Abbado adds a poignant edge to this interpretation, which has received rave reviews throughout its run at Covent Garden’s Royal Opera House.

FOR MORE EVENTS VISIT WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

9/23/15 12:00 PM

HIGHLIGHT

THINK PINK

PINKTOBER. HARD ROCK CAFÉ. PL. CATALUNYA 21.

THROUGHOUT OCTOBER. This month, Hard Rock Café supports the fight against breast cancer with its worldwide Pinktober campaign.

Over the last 16 years, the campaign has raised millions of dollars for breast cancer awareness and research, through creative and fun events, concerts, and merchandise.

This year, all money raised in Spain will go to the Spanish Cancer Association (AECC). In support of the campaign, Hard Rock Café Barcelona is putting on a series of events raning from a zumba masterclass from UK based zumba expert Donna Giffen to concerts by female artists every Thursday throughout October. Each concert is sponsored by a different organisation in the city and, on October 9th, its Metropolitan’s turn as we bring Barcelona-based psychedelic rock band Stiff Cats to the stage. Also on the lineup are artists presented by the Valencia Campus of the Berklee College of Music, independent music magazine Mondo Sonoro, Rock Zone Magazine and Enderrock for what promises to be a month of great musical events in aid of a worthy cause.

Ahead of their show at Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona, Metropolitan chatted to psychedelic rock band Stiff Cats whose band members originate from Panama, Israel and England. (See our website for the full interview.)

Do you plan on staying in Barcelona for the foreseeable future?

Emily: Oh hell yeah! We love it here.

What is it about the city that you love?

Richard: It’s not England!

Emily: We love everything about Barcelona, aside from the music complaints.

Do you think Barcelona is a good place for bands to develop?

Matan: It depends very much which style of music you play.

There is more of a demand here for Latin music and jazz, rather than heavy rock. For rock music, it’s more challenging.

I guess though on the other hand, these guys had another theory, which is why they came here.

Emily: English rock, that’s what’s missing here.

Pablo: People are craving rock now-every time they come to our gigs they’re like, “this is what we’ve been looking for!”

What does it mean to you to be part of the Pinktober campaign?

Emily: To help and to be part of something great like this, which raises awareness and support from people of all ages is something we are so happy to be involved with. To help in such a positive way, through rock music, is brilliant!

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ASKING ALEXANDRIA There’s hardcore metal music on offer from this five piece from

U2 The legendary rock quartet perform in Barcelona as part of their

TUESDAY

5

FESTIVAL ESCENA POBLENOU

MONDAY

STIFF CATS

WEDNESDAY

STIFF CATS The psych-rock band plays as part of Pinktober, in aid of breast

LOS FARRUCO Y LOS AMAYA A tribute to Romani singer and dancer Carmen Amaya as part of

ELECTRIC RUN Get your glow sticks and neon leggings ready for this 5km race,

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PAULA ROJO The Asturias born singersongwriter performs her blend of Spanish pop and country music.

7pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

BARCELONA VINTAGE MARKET Get your hands on everything from books to clothes to furniture at this second hand market.

11am. Estació de França. Marquès de l’Argentera. 3rd & 4th.

BARCELONA TATTOO EXPO International artists, merchandise and stalls at this event celebrating everything to do with tattoos. 12pm. Fira de Barcelona.

Reina Maria Cristina. 2nd-4th.

EROTIC FAIR 2015 Europe’s biggest erotic event, featuring stalls, shows and activities. Pavelló Olímpic Vall d’Hebron 166-176. 1st-4th.

FLEA MARKET BCN. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Sell, swap and buy se-

PALO ALTO The ever-popular market returns, with plenty of food, drink, music, shopping and an unbeatable atmosphere. 11am-9pm. Carrer dels Pellaires, 30-38. 3rd & 4th.

HIPNOTIK FESTIVAL It’s the 12th edition of this hip hop and urban festival featuring music, dance, MCs and graffiti.

3pm-1am. CCCB. Montalegre 5.

JOE SATRIANI This American musician is the biggest-selling instrumental rock guitarist of all time. 8pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

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SUNDAY

BARCELONA GUITAR DUO Enjoy traditional Spanish guitar and a glass of wine by candle light at this unique event. 9pm.

Església de Santa Anna. Santa Anna 29. 1st, 3rd, 4th, 6th & 8th.

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SATURDAY

2

FRIDAY

1

THURSDAY

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

For more information visit our website

OCTOBER 2015

WHAT'S ON

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TRIO CATCH Classical and contemporary music at this performance as part of the ECHO rising stars series.

8.30pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música, 4-6.

28 !!! (CHK CHK CHK) Established in 1996, the dancepunk band bring their eclectic sound to Barcelona. 8pm. Apolo.

Nou de la Rambla 113.

JAÇ DE GATS The Barcelona based jazz group plays a repertoire of musical adaptations from a diverse range of artists. 10pm. Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

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MOZART CONCERT GERHAHER Baritone Christian Gerhaher presents an array of works by Mozart, in this concert dedicated to the composer. 8pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59.

SOAK The Irish singer-songwriter performs in Barcelona as part of her European tour. 9.30pm. Apolo.

Nou de la Rambla 113.

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EPIC RAP BATTLES OF HISTORY. The YouTube sensation comes to Barcelona, with an interactive and comical show. 7pm. Music Hall. Rambla de Catalunya 2-4.

FLAMENCO VS CLASSICAL: ALEN GARAGIC. An intimate candlelit concert from the award winning guitarist.

9pm. Iglesia de Santa Ana. Santa Anna 29.

GOOD LIFE WEEKEND Indulgent balance is on the menu at this weekend which looks after your body, mind and soul.

Rural Catalunya. 16th - 19th. www.thegoodlifeweekend.com.

TOM KEIFER The frontman of hard rock band Cinderella strikes out on his own with a glam rock sound. 7.30pm.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

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THE CAT EMPIRE The Australian band bring their jazz and ska infused sound to Barcelona tonight. 7.30pm. Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

ORQUESTRA DEL MONTSALVAT An evening of classical music, featuring works by Beethoven and Brahms. 8.30pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música, 4-6.

SWAN LAKE The Cuban National Ballet perform their interpretation of this tragic love story. Various times.

Teatre Tívoli. Casp 8. 21st - 25th.

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CULT OF YOUTH Guests Runa join the neo-folk four piece for an evening of alternative music. 9pm. Rocksound.

Almogàvers 116.

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THE SONICS These veterans of punk are back with a bang, along with their first new release in over 40 years, entitled This Is The Sonics (2015).

8pm. Bikini. Diagonal, 547.

PISCINA AND WELLNESS BCN An event focused on the uses of water in the wellbeing industry.

10am-7pm. Fira de Barcelona.

Reina Maria Cristina. 13th-16th.

SITGES FILM FESTIVAL The world-renowned fantasy film festival is an essential meeting place for film fanatics and professionals. Various venues throughout Sitges. 9th-18th.

NABUCCO Verdi’s Babylonian oppression plot is transported to the period of the Holocaust. 8pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 5159. 7th-22nd.

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FILM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA A performance of the biggest film soundtracks including The Matrix and Jurassic Park. 7.30pm.

L’Auditori. Lepant, 150.

MIGUEL POVEDA The Spanish flamenco singer performs songs from his latest release. 7.30pm. Teatre Coliseum.

Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 595.

HUMAN+ This exhibition considers what it is to be a human in the current social and moral climate. CCCB. Montalegre 5. Until April 2016.

LONDON PHILHARMONIC Vladimir Jurowski conducts this renowned orchestra. 8.30pm.

Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música, 4-6.

BRUNCH ELECTRONIK. The popular electronic music event returns for a Halloween edition. 12pm. Poble Espanyol.

Francesc Ferrer i Guardia 13.

LOS PLANETAS The Spanish indie band comes to Barcelona, performing in support of their new EP Dobles fatigas.

9pm. L’Auditori. Lepant 150.

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THE BOHICAS The British indie-rock quartet bring their energetic sound to Barcelona. 1am. Razzmatazz.

Pamplona 88.

SOAK

DAPHNI B2B FLOATING POINTS B2B FOUR TET A night of electro and house, with back to back sets from three established artists. 6pm. Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

I’M BARCELONIAN EXPAT DAY Discover useful organisations in the city and meet other expats.

10am7pm. Museu Marítim. Avinguda de les Drassanes.

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24 48H OPEN HOUSE BARCELONA This festival aims to promote the city’s architecture, as over 150 buildings open their doors to the public. Various locations around Barcelona. 24th - 25th.

BLACKBERRY SMOKE Hailing from the USA, the group bring their Southern rock sound to Barcelona. 7.45pm. Bikini.

Diagonal 547.

ARIA KADABRA One for the kids, this spellbinding tale takes us on a journey through the world of opera.

11am. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59. 17th & 18th.

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MOBILEE ROOFTOP It’s the last event of this summer party series, with an all star line-up of guest DJs. 2pm. Hotel Silken Diagonal. Diagonal, 205.

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

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MARÍA TOLEDO The Spanish singer and pianist brings her flamenco-inspired sounds to the city. 8.30pm. Luz de Gas. Muntaner 246.

FIFTH TCHAIKOVSKY The Orquestra Simfònica del Vallès performs works by Dvorak and Tchaikovsky. 7pm. Palau de la Música Catalana. Palau de la Música, 4-6.

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HOLI FESTIVAL OF COLOUR Originating in India, this colourful festival is now popular worldwide and celebrates a day on which all people are seen as equal. 12pm.

Parc del Fòrum. Plaça del Fòrum, 1.

ELECTRIC RUN Get your glow sticks and neon leggings ready for this 5km race, with electronic DJs. 7pm-12am.

Parc del Fòrum. Pl del Fòrum, 1.

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PYSCHO LIVE A screening of Hitchcock’s classic film Psycho, accompanied by live music from l’Orquestra Simfònica del Vallès. 9pm. CCIB. Auditori del Forum.

ELECTRIC RUN

PABLO ALBORÁN The award winning Spanish artist is touring in support of best selling album Terral (2014). 9.30pm.

Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7.

TORI SPARKS Singer-songwriter Tori Sparks plays with flamenco fusion trio Calamento. 8.30pm. Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

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ALISA WEILERSTEIN A fresh interpretation of Beethoven’s 5th symphony, alongside a piece by composer Joan Magrané. 8.30pm.

L’Auditori. Lepant 150. 16th-18th.

FESTIVAL ESPERANZAH This music festival focuses on economic solidarity, and features international artists. El Parc Nou. El Prat de Llobregat. 16th-18th.

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BORIS GREBENSHIKOV The ‘Grandfather of Russian Rock’ will deliver his unique solo material. 9pm. Razzmatazz.

Pamplona 88.

LOS FARRUCO Y LOS AMAYA A tribute to Romani singer and dancer Carmen Amaya as part of ‘Aristocràcia del Flamenco’. 9pm.

Palau de la Música Catalana.

Palau de la Música, 4-6.

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XXI SALÓN DEL MANGA A celebration of manga, with a Super Mario Bros space and Japanese cuisine. Fira Barcelona - Montjuïc. Av. Reina Maria Cristina. Until November 1st.

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CHICK COREA + THE VIGIL A night of contemporary jazz, featuring acoustic and electronic sounds. 9pm. L’Auditori de Barcelona. Lepant 150.

FESTIVAL ESCENA POBLENOU This festival celebrates innovation in the performing arts, offering a unique programme of contemporary art. Various locations in Poblenou. 22nd - 25th.

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BLAM! Physical theatre comes to Barcelona with this unique show. Various times. BARTS. Parallel 62.

GOSPEL & JAZZ. NOTES SOLIDÀRIES PER BADALONA All money raised from this gospel and jazz performance goes to Fundació Ateneu Sant Roc and the IGTP. 9.30pm. L’Auditori.

Lepant 150.

STIFF CATS The psych-rock band plays as part of Pinktober, in aid of breast cancer awareness. 9pm. Hard Rock Café. Plaça Catalunya 21.

ASKING ALEXANDRIA There’s hardcore metal music on offer from this five piece from North Yorkshire. Support comes from August Burns Red. 8pm.

Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

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U2 The legendary rock quartet perform in Barcelona as part of their ‘iNNOCENCE + eXPERIENCE’ tour. 9pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Pg Olímpic, 5-7. 5th, 6th, 9th & 10th.

STIFF CATS

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CULTURE

Something old, something new THE WEATHER’S GETTING COOLER AND IT’S TIME TO FRESHEN UP THE WARDROBE. HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO DO IT WITHOUT THE ANNUAL SEASONAL SHOP. TEXT BY LAURA BONICELLI.

Knitting is no longer just a pastime for old ladies. Over the past few years it has enjoyed a huge renaissance and now everyone seems to be knitting their own scarves and bobble hats. IFIL (Torrent de l’Olla 161) is a shop specialising in interesting and unique types of yarn that also runs workshops and courses on knitting. Their 20-minute express workshop is completely free and goes over all of the core techniques. Best of all, it can be taken any day, any time—just walk in and ask (www.ifilbarcelona. wordpress.com).

Learning the art of sewing and designing clothes is another great way to create different, original pieces. Lantoki (Doctor Dou 15) is a co-sewing space where people can rent a desk with a sewing machine from as little as an hour up to months at a time. They run lots of different courses, with everything from basic introductory classes to how to make a shirt from scratch on offer (www.lantoki.es). L’Atelier del Raval (Cera 1) is another workshop/boutique that runs long-term workshops at civic centres around Barcelona. These include classes on patchwork, purses and bags (www.latelierdelraval.com).

Photo compliments of IFIL

make your own

from trash to treasure Recycling clothes is a sustainable and creative way to stand out from the high street wearing crowd. There are plenty of second-hand markets around Barcelona where you can buy and sell old threads. The oldest and most popular in Barcelona is Flea Market in Plaça Blanquerna, which happens on the second Sunday of every month (www.fleamarketbcn.com). Others include the monthly Lost&Found at Estació de França (www. lostfoundmarket.com), as well as Two Market, which usually runs a few different second-hand markets every month (www. twomarket.es).

There is no shortage of vintage shopping in the city either, particularly in the Raval. Carrer de la Riera Baixa is famous for its many vintage shops and the little street market they collectively put on every Saturday. Others in the neighbourhood include Flamingos Vintage Kilo (Ferlandina 20), which operates a pay-per-kilo system, and HoLaLa Vintage (Valldonzella 4), but taking a stroll through the area will unearth many more places catering to all styles and eras. For more upmarket clothing, head to Le Swing (Rec 16) in Born, where you can find luxurious old designer pieces.

Whilst not as popular as they were a few years back, clothes swap parties are as good for switching things up as ever. It’s a fun social event, eco-friendly and an opportunity to raid the wardrobes of your most fashionable friends. Why not throw one? Just don’t forget the essentials: wine and snacks.

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If you go down to the woods today…

UNLEASH YOUR INNER hunter-gatherer aS wild MUSHROOMS POP UP IN THE LUSH FORESTS OF THE CATALAN countrySide. TEXT BY LAURA BONICELLI.

A

s autumn approaches, something curious starts to happen in the mountains and forests of Catalunya. Come the weekend, hundreds of people head to the countryside to explore its mysterious nooks and crannies, searching for something elusive: the prized and adored bolet. If you know where to look, around 175 different species of edible wild mushroom can be found hidden across the land in the cooler months. These dedicated boletaires, or ‘mushroom hunters’— ‘foragers’ doesn’t quite convey the sharp skill and passion that goes into it—are equipped with years of knowledge that is passed down through generations, keeping the best spots for finding mushrooms a close family secret.

Josep Roca Massons, 35, is one such boletaire. His first memories of mushroom foraging go back to trips with his parents and grandparents when he was around four or five. The family would drive up to the Pyrenees and set off on their hunt, heading for specific areas of forest that they knew could be particularly rewarding—their ‘secret places’ that no one else was aware of. Josep learnt to identify the edible species and tell them apart from the poisonous ones, and he soon inherited his parents’ passion. The family still goes up to the mountains as soon as the season begins, although these days, with no small children to guide and entertain, the hunt is a more strategic affair. Each person sets off in a separate direction with a basket and inspects the forest floor until together they have searched the entire area.

Often they will return from a morning’s forage with a bounty of up to 10 kilogrammes of mushrooms each. They then go home and begin the mission of washing, cooking and preserving what they have found.

“If I had the time, I would go mushroom foraging every single week-

end,” says Josep. To him, there is nothing like that feeling of solitude and connecting with nature—just himself, the forest, hopefully a few bolets, and cows grazing nearby.

That is why he is unsure about the current trend of mushroom foraging that, over the last decade, has seen more and more people head out into the countryside in search of bolets. The trend stems in part from the popularity of a TV3 programme, Caçadors de Bolets, which caused an explosion in foraging activity when it was first broadcast in 2004, and shows little sign of slowing down. On one hand, the programme has educated the public about this fascinating tradition. On the other, the crowds of new foragers in the forests have meant that life-long boletaires like Josep, accustomed to solitude and an abundance of mushrooms, are being pushed further and further afield in search of secluded, mushroom-rich spots. The large numbers of people are also beginning to take their toll on the forests, with some disrespecting the environment and leaving litter. Not to mention the increase in inexperienced mushroom hunters landing themselves in hospital after accidentally consuming toxic mushrooms. According to the Generalitat, there are several cases of poisoning every year (34 reported in 2012), occasionally fatal.

Potential disasters can be avoided, however, with some thorough research before you set off, or better still, being accompanied by an experienced boletaire. It’s not often these days that a craze comes along which gets people outside and reconnecting with nature and tradition, and leaving the digital world behind. This is where the true attraction lies; foraging for mushrooms provides an opportunity to disengage and participate in an activity that goes back hundreds of years and has remained untouched by technology. Happy foraging!

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OTHER THINGS TO FORAGE SaFety and tiPS The Generalitat has a useful website for boletaires (www.bolets.gencat. cat) with information on everything from how to gather mushrooms to comprehensive guides on Catalunya’s most common edible and toxic mushroom species. Before heading into the forest in search of mushrooms, bear in mind the responsible approach to respecting them and their environment, as well some essential safety precautions.

1. Always use a wicker basket to collect mushrooms rather than a plastic bag. This allows the spores from the mushrooms to be released back into the forest so they can repopulate it.

2. Unless 100 percent sure that a mushroom is edible, just leave it where it is. Taking a leap of faith could land you in hospital, or worse.

Learn to identify a few specific species and look out for them instead of trying to decide whether every mushroom you come across is safe.

Take some identification books with you or, ideally, a knowledgeable human guide.

3. Wear protective clothing. Hiking boots, long sleeves and trousers are essential. You will be going off the beaten path to find mushrooms and hence battling with forces of nature, not to mention the temperamental autumn weather.

4. Be mindful of the environment. Don’t litter or light fires, and do not take your car off the road in an effort to reach secluded locations.

All common sense, but the increase in people heading out into the forests is beginning to take its toll, so it’s worth being that extra bit careful.

5. Go early. Aim to arrive at your chosen location around sunrise. This way you can almost guarantee that no one else will have followed that trail before you. The lighting is also best in the morning.

Funghi not your fetish? Don’t worry, there are lots of other things to look for if you want that back-to-basics, huntergatherer experience of collecting your own food.

WILD ASPARAGUS These can be found in Catalunya in late winter/early spring in well lit, wet areas, such as near streams. Asparagus are easy to forage because they are difficult to mistake for anything else. Tip: Look out for dead asparagus stalks from last year, as they indicate the presence of new stalks and their grey colour is easier to spot amongst the grass.

WILD BERRIES All sorts of wild berries can be found up in the mountains during summer. Like mushrooms, if unsure what a berry is, don’t pick it, as some can be poisonous. Raspberries and blackberries are easy to identify. Others, like currants for instance, look similar to poisonous species so are best avoided. Look out for wild strawberries growing near the ground. They may be tiny, but they usually have quadruple the flavour of any shop-bought strawberry.

NETTLES Nettles can be a great green ingredient to add to your dishes and have been used in medicine for over 2000 years. Just remember to blanch them in boiling water before you use them to remove their sting. They can be found almost anywhere in the countryside— don’t forget your gloves!

SEA LETTUCE This seaweed has a high concentration of vitamins and minerals and can be found in isolated rocky coves, such as those found along the Costa Brava. It looks like bright green, soggy lettuce and can be eaten raw in salads or added to soups for an Asianinspired twist. Before eating, soak it in water for a few hours to moderate the flavour.

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FASHION

in style

WITH COOLER WEATHER ON THE WAY, WE WENT ON THE HUNT FOR THE BEST LATE SUMMER FASHION AT PIKNIC ELECTRONIK, WITH URBAN JUMPSUITS AND MISMATCHED PRINTS FEATURING HEAVILY.

Name: Spencer Age: 27 From: LA Profession: Production Design Style: California cool Shirt: Wasteland Vintage Shorts: DIY Customised Levis Shoes: Vans

Name: Alaitz Age: 22 From: Barcelona Profession: Waitress Style: Urban edge Jumpsuit: H&M Shoes: Nike Bag: Vintage

Name: Judit Age: 24 From: Barcelona Profession: Student Style: Patterned chic Top: Vintage Skirt: Bershka Shoes: Independent store

GET THE LOOK

STRADIVARIUS RUCKSACK €25.95

MANGO MAXI SKIRT €59.99 H&M SHIRT €29.99 H&M JUMPSUIT €24.99

NIKE FLEECE SHOES €100 H&M PASSEIG DE GRÀCIA 9. MANGO PORTAL DE L’ÀNGEL 7. NIKE GRAN VIA 75. STRADIVARIUS PELAI 30.

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TRAVEL

Crawling up the walls EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE CATALAN COUNTRYSIDE FROM a different, white-knuckle PERSPECTIVE. BY MELISSA LEIGHTY.

T

he beauty of Catalunya lies not only in the form of its Mediterranean landscape and climate, but in the many ways in which it is possible to enjoy it. Many mountainous regions lie within easy reach of the city, where those who are up for a physical test and those who like to live life on the edge (literally), might consider taking on a new challenge: the via ferrata.

A via ferrata (ferrada in Spanish) is something of a hybrid between a hiking trail and a climbing route, which doesn’t require any technical climbing knowledge. The name refers to a path of climbing trails marked by handles and cables, which assist hikers along their route. The word ferrata comes from the Latin for iron, therefore via ferrata literally means the ‘iron way’ in reference to the iron handles that line the paths and are used as a means of both climbing and traversing steep cliff faces.

In Italian, the term via ferrata originates from via attrezzata, meaning fully-equipped road. The first via ferrata was built in northern Italy as a military trail used to help fighters traverse the Dolomites quickly and safely during World War I. Because of the risk associated with extreme temperatures, avalanches and falls, the alpine military units created protection on the mountains in the form of bridge-like structures made from steel cables, iron rungs which create vertical ladders, and stemples, wooden stairs built into the side of the mountain. The original military routes were later converted to trails for hiking and sports, which became a popular activity in Italy and has slowly spread throughout Europe.

Although guided trips and tour operators are ubiquitous on the Italian trails, the industry hasn’t really taken off in Spain yet. There are a couple of companies operating in Andalusia and Valencia, but none in Catalunya. That said, there are a number of ways you can familiarise yourself with the trails before venturing out into the unknown. One of the best online resources is Deandar (deandar.com/ferratas/en/Catalunya), which provides a list of the trails found in Catalunya, as well as extensive information on each one, including maps, photos, path conditions and level of difficulty ratings. According to the site, most via ferrata are divided into several sections, often of different difficulty ratings, with two or more escapes built into it, in the event that hikers prefer to do only part of the trail.

Via ferrata can be enjoyed by both novices and experienced climbers, and Catalunya is blessed with a network of unique trails. However, choosing a route that meets your particular physical and psychological capabilities is essential. Although it could be considered a kind of climbing route for the less bold, the physical demand can be equally intense.

There are several different rating scales, with the Hüsler scale being the most commonly used in Spain. It grades trails from K1 (easiest) to K6 (most difficult) based on four factors: force, psychology, resistance and experience. Another scale, the FPRET, adds quality of the terrain to that list. It is important to understand these scales and to plan accordingly before setting off on unknown trails. Be prepared, or you could be left clinging on for dear life: a climbing harness and a via ferrata kit (including a lanyard and appropriate carabiners to fit the steel cables) are required gear on the trails, while helmets are also recommended.

There are several areas within Catalunya where you can experience the region’s diverse landscapes. One of the more interesting routes is the Via Ferrata Tossal de les Venes found in Montblanc, just north of Tarragona.

It has two cabled bridges and the first underground route created in Spain. Rated at a K3/K4 level, it takes climbers on a one to two hour route through some beautiful scenery and several impressive caves.

An easier K2 route can be found tucked along the rocky coastline of the Costa Brava, where you experience the breathtaking scenery of this much-loved region (all the more rugged and beautiful out of season).

The Via Ferrata Cala del Molí is found in the region of Sant Feliu de Guixols near Platja de Sant Pol. Here, hikers can traverse steep cliffs above the crystalline Mediterranean.

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Photo by Oriol Clavera

Photo by Dossier P&M

For novices, one of the easiest introductions to the via ferrata experience is the K1-rated Congost de Mont-rebei. Although there are several K1 trails throughout Catalunya, this one, located just north of Lleida, is particularly spectacular. Inhabiting the narrow gorge of Mont-rebei, this unusual via ferrata runs 50 metres above the Noguera Ribagorzana river. The ease of the trail is obvious from its sturdy cable bridges and the wide flat paths that run along the gorge. While it is considered suitable for children and dogs, parents will have to decide if the trail is appropriate for their individual comfort level. The area is also excellent for bird watching.

So, are you up for the challenge? Now that the heat has finally subsided, the via ferrata offers the chance to take a leap outside your comfort zone and experience nature in a new way. With some good research and preparation, you can off-road at ease and you won’t be left hanging.

Congost de Mont-rebei

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

KUAI MOMOS

A BARCELONA BACKPACKER’S TREK FROM ASIA INTO GRÀCIA TEXT BY SAM ZUCKER

MORE INFO. Martínez de la Rosa 71 Tel. 93 218 5327 www.momosbcn.com Mon-Wed, 8pm-11.30pm Thurs-Sat, 8pm-12am Closed Sunday ✪✪✪✪

T

he concept for Asian ‘tapas’ restaurant Kuai Momos cannot be called ‘fusion’ in the conventional sense of blending two unique styles of cuisine into one. Instead, and even better, this tantalising eatery sends you off on a tour de force of pure Asian flavours from one far reach of the great continent to the other. The restaurant and menu are the creations of dynamic Barcelona native Jordi Brau. Born and raised in Gràcia, Jordi has turned the much-coveted gourmand backpacker’s dream into a reality—his own restaurant dedicated to seven years of travel and life experience throughout Asia. Dishes reflect real experiences during his adventures, with some even bearing the name of the person who inspired it (who is this Riky of Thai Fish Cake Riky’s?). The name Kuai Momos is equal parts wordplay and obscure foodie reference. For the first word, think “¡que guay!” (how cool!). The second, momos, is a type of traditional savoury Nepalese dumpling (steamed then pan-fried), similar to the Japanese gyoza and a must-order when dining at this busy little neighbourhood favourite.

Located in the heart of Gràcia, Kuai Momos is one of many restaurants that I have walked by dozens of times without a second glance. I was surprised that I had never stopped to look at the menu, displayed outside in a small lightbox. The place is small, with an appealing display of wine bottles at the entry, a long narrow service bar and dining area, and an upstairs dining room at the top of an impossibly-narrow staircase. The real highlight is the large collection of framed travel photographs taken by Jordi Brau himself during his seven-year journey which give the restaurant a homey and authentic feel.

Our dining experience started off on the right foot, as we were seated immediately by the pleasant hostess. The menu was explained in detail and our server informed us that the average order was around two plates per person, with the goal of sharing everything. Plates here leave the kitchen when they are ready, in no specific order. In keeping with the traditional family-style service found throughout much of Asia, the idea of starter and main courses is non-existent. Though not one Spanish or Catalan dish can be found on the menu of Kuai Momos, their motto of Tapes amb palillos

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✪ NOT WORTH THE TRIP

✪✪ COULD IMPROVE

(Tapas with chopsticks) is very appropriate. Nearly everything on the menu costs between €5 and €9, and with five people the bill split evenly came out to just about €25 each.

The array of delights at Kuai Momos makes choosing difficult. The meal began with a Cambodian salad of cucumbers in peanut sauce. I love peanut sauce and could probably eat it on most things, and this one did not disappoint. Not too thick and not the least bit gritty, there was a touch of sweetness and a good kick of acidity from the vinegar and lime that cut the richness of the sauce and refreshed the palate, allowing the cilantro to shine.

Next came the famous momos dumplings: one order of the vegetarian variety and one with mushrooms, bamboo and ground pork. They are the pan-fried-then-steamed kind of dumpling, but with thicker dough than a typical Japanese gyoza and less greasy than the Chinese gou tie. While recalling every one of the countless dumplings that I have eaten in my life would be an impossible task, I can say that I may have had better. That being said, if you don’t order at least one plate of momos you’ll be missing out. I would go for the mushroom and bamboo variety again and plan to taste the prawn and vegetable filling on my next visit.

After the dumplings, the speed at which our plates began to leave the kitchen increased, with one dish after another landing on the table until nearly every bit of space was occupied. The Thai green chicken curry and the Thai red vegetable curry were both really nice. There was well-developed flavour, tender meat and vibrant notes of lemongrass and lime leaf, though I have a feeling that the Asian chefs in the kitchen (Kuai Momos announces proudly on their menu that their food is authentic, right down to the people who cook it) may have been holding back on the spice to cater to the local palate. With the dimension added by some good heat, the curries would have been elevated to the next level. As my hand with the hot sauce gets heavier as the years go by, it gets harder for my taste buds to get their fix.

In a city like Barcelona where very few things are truly spicy, a chef who can harness that perfect balance of pain and pleasure immediately captures my attention. ✪✪✪ GOOD

✪✪✪✪ VERY GOOD

✪✪✪✪✪ NOT TO BE MISSED

9/23/15 12:17 PM

Luckily, my favourite dish of the night had yet to arrive, the ‘Korean salad of beef fillet’. Composed of raw strips of ‘cube roll’ (a succulent and flavourful cut of beef known alternatively as Boneless Rib-eye or Scotch Fillet) marinated in spicy Korean chili powder, daikon radish, lime, guindilla peppers and sesame seeds, this is better than any steak tartare you’ve ever tasted. As I greedily claimed the last morsel, I contemplated sucking down the remaining, fiery sauce right from the bowl.

The dishes we ordered paired well with the Albet i Noya 3 Macabeus 2014, an organic, 100 percent Macabeu varietal white wine from Penedès that possesses enough presence and body to stand up to bold flavours of the pan-Asian table. Recommended wisely by our servers, this bottle was well balanced, with ripe fruit and nice acidity, a lush floral nose and a crisp, refreshing lightness that made for very easy drinking.

I wouldn’t be over-generalising to say that the weak point of many Asian menus is the dessert section. I was relieved not to see the classic ‘fried ice cream’ of the Chinese-American restaurants of my youth, but of the four dessert offerings (five including the sorbets and ice creams), only the Black Sticky Rice with Mango tempted me. Momos offers hot mochi cooked to order with sesame praline, and though I am guessing that it is surely better than average, I’ve had too many insipid mochi experiences as of late to want to commit to an entire plate. If you’re a chocolate fiend, the chocolate truffles with ginger and orange would be right up your alley, but in the end, it was the rice and mango that made the cut. You would have to look hard to find my sweet tooth, and I would take another plate of dumplings over cake any day, so this not-too-sweet, warm bowl of black rice with perfectly-ripe cubes of mango was a good choice and I enjoyed it.

I am enamoured of Asian food in general and I crave it more often than any other type of cuisine, so it follows that the unique back-story and diverse offering of Kuai Momos immediately caught my eye. You could choose Kuai Momos as a casual date night spot, but the environment, menu and location make it an ideal destination for dinner with friends, as the friendly staff and ‘tapas’ format invite you to stay at your leisure, savouring each bite. Dig in as you retrace the footsteps of Jordi Brau, from South Korea to Japan, then down through China into South-East Asia before forging west to the mountain kingdom of Nepal. When you finally bid your sherpas adéu, you can make your way around the corner to either of Gràcia’s two busiest plaças and carry on in local fashion well into the night, with the scents of ginger and chili still clinging to your fingertips.

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QUICK BITES

MORE INFO. Sant Pere Mès Alt 49 Tel. 93 624 1016 www.casalolea.com Mon-Sun 9am-1am

Casa Lolea

SANGRIA ENJOYS A SOPHISTICATED RENAISSANCE AT CASA LOLEA. TEXT AND PHOTOS BY SAM ZUCKER.

I

n 2013, Bruno Balbás, along with three good friends, founded the Lolea Sangria brand in Zaragoza with the goal of reclaiming a drink that they loved; a drink whose reputation and virtue had been sullied by too many generic versions and too much tourist pandering.

Sangria Lolea is an artisanal, bottled libation that is made with only real ingredients and comes in a variety of styles, from the recognisable Lolea Noº 1 (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, orange juice, lime and cinnamon) to the sparkling white wine-based Lolea Brut with wild apples and elderflower—a refreshing blend that always instantly piques my appetite. Not wanting to miss out on the action, Barcelona superstar chef Albert Adrià even requested his own Lolea Sangria style, dubbed La Cala. A step up from your average summer sangria, La Cala leans towards the vermouth aspects, evoking the

Tastings

flavours of the Mediterranean with strong hints of rosemary and cinnamon.

Casa Lolea, on the top fringe of Barcelona’s ever-evolving Sant Pere neighbourhood, is one place where I might actually order a sangria.

This smart little vermuteria, with its handsome red, white and black colour scheme, elegant tiled floors and exposed bulb fixtures, offers vermouth, wine, cocktails, artisanal Lolea-brand sangria and delectable versions of some very classic tapas and aperitivo dishes.

Living just down the street from this inviting outpost, it’s not hard to convince myself to pop in for a couple of house specialities such as the salty-sweet, vermouth-marinated mackerel, tender homemade mojama (dry-cured tuna) with orange and almonds, succulent sardines in escabeche, marinated salmon blinis with yogurt and truffle honey, semolina truffle risotto, creamy foie gras mi-cuit with black volcanic salt,

or confit bacalao with olivada and capers.

A good mix of local and foreign patrons frequent the compact dining room, with the dozen or so tables consistently filled, from 9am for coffee and pastries, to 1am as leisurely dinners finally come to their satisfying conclusion.

Opened in November 2014 by Balbás and his wife Sofía Matarazzo, along with chef Ramón Miracle, Casa Lolea represents the flagship of what may become a multi-location brand. Their goal is to hone the Casa Lolea concept locally before opening more of the same throughout Spain and then globally. The menu and restaurant design were crafted around the idea of enjoying a meal without rush or pretense, where the fresh food and artisanal drink go together in sublime harmony. With a wide offering of drinks, bites, plates and desserts, at Casa Lolea sangria is always in season.

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

THE EVOLUTION OF ESPELT Espelt was one of the first wineries I got to know well in the northern DO Empordà region that borders France. They’ve been making wine there since the Greeks, but the 20th century saw large cooperatives dominate the scene with a rather squalid bulk production. Towards the end of the 1990s, however, many smaller wineries opened that were run by local families, of which Espelt is one.

While definitely the largest of this new wave of cellars, Espelt is able to produce unique, singular wines. Their young wines are excellent value and in the upper range

where director Anna Espelt has been pushing a new agenda. Taking over the winery fully in 2012, she has been adamantly pursuing a true Empordà character to her wines.

For those who don’t know Empordà and especially the area of the Albares foothills, it’s a rugged, windy country. While the wines can carry power like those further south, the best will always have this fresh tinge of windswept herbs and salty breeze.

Based upon what I’ve been tasting of recent vintages, I think that Anna has captured this exceedingly well, although she continues to push herself and her team to do even more.

SOL I VENT 2014 The “fruit of the mountain” as Anna calls it. A blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah that has perfumed red fruits, cumin and a full feel on the palate. Bramble, very open, honest and true Empordà character. €9.50 TERRES NEGRES 2013 Mostly Carignan with a little bit of Grenache, it shows rich, ripe red berries and notes of cigar, tea leaf, and orange peel on the nose as well as light slate minerality. Full in the body, it fills out the mouth elegantly, while still allowing its wild side to show just under its collar. €14.50

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NEFW &D

Bar

Whether you are an Erasmus student, a football fanatic or a music lover, D9 Bar has at least one night a week for you.

Fully equipped with a terrace, D9 offers a wide range of tapas, beers, cocktails and shots for every night of the week.

American Day on Wednesdays, Erasmus Parties on Thursdays, and music themed parties on Friday and Saturday. There is always something for everyone.

FOOD DRINK

&

IN

D9 BAR 4 POBLENOU

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

under 20 | 20-30 | 30-40 | over 40 Carrer Pallars 122, 08016 Tel. 93 309 9202 I www.denou.bar Open Sun-Thurs 6pm-2.30am Fri-Sat 6pm-3am

NEW &D IN F

 food&drink visit our online directory www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/eating-and-drinking Japanese

BLACKLAB BREWERY4 BARCELONETA

YOI YOI GION 4EIXAMPLE

The newly opened BlackLab Brewery offers customers a new experience in Barcelona––a place where you can come with friends and family, and enjoy a unique pint of craft beer, made just two metres from where you’re sitting.

BlackLab’s food is a culinary journey from China all the way to New York. You’ll find dumplings and bahn mi, mussels fresh from the fish market, ramen, cheesecake, portobello mushrooms, and more.

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

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

Bagel

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

Ice Cream BE MY BAGEL 4GRÀCIA

MANNA GELATS 4 BARRI GÒTIC

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.

Homemade ice creams, waffles and crêpes in the heart of the Barrio Gótico.

Their ice creams are inspired by family recipes, using the best products. The fresh fruit sorbets are made with market-bought products, boasting exotic varieties. Their passion is to please their customers with personalized attention.

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

Bistronomia

Ban ys Nous 22 | Metro Liceu Tel. 93 342 7312

Indian / Tandoori FULLA D’OSTRA 4 EIXAMPLE Bistronomia Fulla d’Ostra is a restaurant neighbouring the Mercat Galvany.

Our Chilean chef, Marcelo Gonzalez, prepares delicious gourmet dishes made with fresh products. The exclusive decorator, Lazaro Rosa Violan, has transformed this small bistro into a charming place, and with the capacity for just eighteen guests, it is both intimate and romantic.

Amigó 39, 08021 Tel. 93 200 8393 hola@fulladotra.com www.fulladostra.com

SURYA 4EIXAMPLE

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

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

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

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Mexican MALPASO4EIXAMPLE

MALGAM 4EIXAMPLE

This recently opened restaurant offers traditional Mexican cuisine.

For starters, don’t miss the excellent house nachos, served with cheese, pico de gallo, guacamole and sour cream, or ‘Vuelve la Vida’, a seafood ceviche with avocado, tomato and lime. Star main dishes include the Arrachera, a grilled US prime hanger steak served with baked vegetables, and the Atún Moctezuma, pan-seared tuna battered in Mexican spices, served with pico de gallo, avocado and mint sauce. Mexican brunch is available at the weekend.

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

Girona 59, 08009 Tel. 93 461 3060 Mon-Thur 8am-12am Fri-Sat 8am-3pm, Sun 9.30am-12am

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

TAP DE SURO 4 EIXAMPLE

FONDA ESPAÑA4 BARRI GÒTIC

Tap de Suro is an intimate place dedicated entirely to the world of wine.

Here you can experience delicious Mediterranean meals accompanied with their authentic wine collection.

They offer a diverse menu of Catalan wines and cavas, ranging from local Spanish grapes to the best international wines. They also provide a sales service in which they can advise you in finding the perfect flavour for every occasion.

Located in the emblematic Hotel España, the Modernist dining room that was originally designed and decorated

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

Mediterranean

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

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

Bar JAMÓN EXPERIENCE 4 BARRI GÒTIC Come and discover everything you’ve ever wanted to know about jamón ibérico. Enjoy an engaging interactive experience with an audiovisual tour in 8 languages that culminates with a tasting of 6 different kinds of jamones (reserve, ibérico, Guijuelo, Extremadura, Valle de los Pedroches and Huelva) hand cut by a master slicer and paired with a glass of cava, wine or beer. A unique experience you’ll treasure forever!

Opens every day from 11.30am to 8pm.

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

KAIZEN AFTERWORK4POBLE NOU Do you work close to 22@ and feel like relaxing after work?

Come to Kaizen Afterwork and enjoy premium cocktails and tasty snacks. Great vibe and great music. Bring this ad and get 15% off a gin and tonic.

Castella 1 Tel. 93 676 0761 / 636 092 221 facebook.com/kaizenafterwork | info@kaizenafterwork.com

Vegetarian/Vegan ZAATAR (VEGETARIAN)4EIXAMPLE Experience delicious, creative vegan and vegetarian dining with the finest, fresh organic ingredients. Zaatar innovates with locally sourced fusion cuisine. The imaginative and healthy menu is complemented by freshly squeezed juices. They are truly passionate about food while maintaining focus on sustainability and conscious living. Lunch menu under €10.

Paris 200 | Metro Diagonal | Tel. 654 926 601 | Mon-Sat 12pm-12am

LOIDI RESTAURANT4 EIXAMPLE Loidi is a contemporary bistro, in which Martin Berasategui makes his cuisine accessible to everybody.

Cuisine prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients and presented with imagination that recalls and pays homage to the celebrated Basque chef’s traditional roots and origins. The menu features various dining options with dishes that change on a weekly basis.

The restaurant is a very contemporary, warm and comfortable space frequented by a local and professional clientele.

Head chef: Jordi Asensio. Maitre d’: Oscar Fernández.

Mallorca 248-250, 08008 Tel. 93 492 9292 Mon-Sat 1pm-3.30pm, 8pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-3.30pm, Closed Sun evening.

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

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

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HEALTH &BEAUTY

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

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

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

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

See our online directory at

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com Dr. Boj - DENTIST

Dr. Alistair Gallagher DENTIST

Dr. Boj and his team offer specialised, comprehensive pediatric dental and orthodontic treatment for children and teens. Laser dentistry and invisible orthodontics are available.

Dr. Boj also lectures about all treatments related to these age groups. He studied at the School of Medicine and Dentistry of the University of Rochester, NY, USA. Fast and friendly service in an English-speaking, international environment.

The British Dental Clinic has a patientfriendly philosophy that combines aesthetics, youthful appearances, and a commitment to total oral health.

Conveniently located in Barcelona, they offer orthodontics including Fast Braces and Inman Aligner, implants, cosmetic dentistry, whitening and general family dentistry. Their talented, conscientious and friendly staff will help ensure that you comfortably receive the healthy and beautiful smile that you deserve.

Diagonal 281 Metro: Sagrada Família (L5) Monumental (L2) T. 93 265 8070 M. 607 332 335 info@thebritishdentalclinic.com www.thebritishdentalclinic.com

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

Sanz Pancko Dental Clinic -

Orthoestetic - DENTIST

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

The Orthoestetic Clinic is located in the heart of Barcelona near the Sagrada Familia. They have modern clinical facilities and equipment, which together with their dentists experience allows them to offer an integral quality dentistry, designed to seek the satisfaction of the patients.

Dr. Holguin is a specialist in orthopedics and orthodontics for children and adults, and dental aesthetics. She is certified by the Invisalign system.

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

Implants & teeth in one day

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Platinum Provider

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

Enric Pintado - DENTIST

Clínica Ed·dent - DENTIST

Dr. Enric Pintado is a specialist in implant surgery and fixed prosthetics, trained by the Universities of New York, NY and Loma Linda, California.

At Dr. Pintado’s dental surgery, the treatment is personalised especially for you. All-on-4 procedures, flapless surgeries, zygomatic implants for low quantity of bone, without bone grafting and healing time.

In all of these procedures, teeth are placed in the same day.

Just everything, just Pintado!

Dr. Enric Pintado, DDS

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

Alternatively, visit them at their centrallylocated clinic where they can offer you help with whatever dental problems you have.

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

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

Dental Clinic Gótico

9/23/15 12:56 PM

IAN GIBBS - LIFE COACH

FREE CONSULTATION

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

If you’re feeling a bit dissatisfied with your life, then maybe you should try talking to a life coach.

Ian can help you regain control, balance and confidence to get you back on track to success and happiness. You’ve nothing to lose except your current dissatisfaction. Call now to arrange a free 1 hour consultation M. 605 801 802 ian.coaching@gmail.com www.iangibbs.es

20% DISCOUNT

Pilates Las Ramblas - PILATES Doina, a UK trained and qualified Physiotherapist offers both physiotherapy sessions treating musculoskeletal ailments and classes in Therapeutic and Wellness Pilates to maintain strength and flexibility for wellbeing and injury prevention.Doina has recently added Nordic Walking to her repertoire. Adding a cardiovascular element; Nordic Walking takes Pilates outside!

T. 610 712 947 www.pilateslasramblas.com doina@pilateslasramblas.com Sanitas - MEDICAL CENTRES

Dr. Steven Joseph - DOCTOR Established in 2005, Googol Medical Centre offers its patients comprehensive healthcare in a friendly, discreet and relaxed environment. UK doctor Steven Joseph provides a wide range of medical care with access to all medical specialties and tests.

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

Gran Via Carles III nº-37-39 Metro Les Corts Mon-Sat M. 662 291 191 www.englishdoctorbarcelona.com

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

Living Mindfully - MINDFULNESS COURSES Do you want to improve your mood, have better relationships, focus, decrease stress and anxiety and find long term peace of mind?

Learn Mindfulness in central Barcelona. Taught by an English psychotherapist and Mindfulness teacher in the MBSR format.

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

info@livingmindfully.es www.livingmindfully.es

Pharmacy Serra Mandri - CHEMIST The pharmacy is open 365 days a year + home delivery service.The staff can help and advise each client to ensure they get exactly what they need.

They also stock a great range of products, including homeopathy, natural medicine, aromatherapy and organic cosmetics.

Av. Diagonal 478, T. 93 416 1270 www.farmaciaserra.com Open 9am-10pm

VISIT OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

Doctors Barcelona - DOCTOR Is the top medical group in Barcelona.

They are committed to provide a first-rate level of care and attention.

They are experienced, trained and equipped to diagnose and treat most acute or chronic medical problems and injuries. Available 24 hours including weekends and holidays. A 30 minutes arrival time to your destination is guaranteed. Their convenient visit fee is refundable by most insurance companies. All Specialists and best Hospitals available.

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

Mary D. McCarthy - DOCTOR

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.

Also a member of IAMAT.

Family Quiropráctic - CHIROPRACTOR Visit Family Quiropráctic for a FREE SPINAL ASSESSMENT! How aligned is your spine?

Did you know that your health depends on that alignment?

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

Doctor of Chiropractic since 1986, Los Angeles (CA) 30 years of experience Thousands of patients placing confidence in their hands.

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

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

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

9/23/15 12:56 PM

NEST - NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS

NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS

Jonathan Lane Hooker NEW CITY CENTRE OFFICE

Jonathan Hooker can help if you’re looking for support, guidance or help with any aspect of your life.

An English-speaking psychotherapist, counsellor, coach and guide, he is dedicated to helping people make sense of their lives. Jonathan provides one-to-one sessions or workshops for groups of four to 12 people.

Metropolitan readers are invited to a free 20-minute introductory meeting.

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.

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

www.barcelonaNEST.com

FREE CONSULTATION

Hestia - PSYCHOTHERAPY

PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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.

- 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.

Hestía International Psychotherapy Centre has become a reference in the city, due to its’ high quality multidisciplinary and multilingual profile.Their professional team works with individuals, couples and families through a variety of services and approaches to therapy and personal development. They speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, German, Portuguese, Greek, Polish, Swedish, Russian and Catalan.

The first consultation is free.

Av. Diagonal 343, 2º 3ª Metro: Verdaguer (L5) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es

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

Heaven - MASSAGE • Ready to feel fantastic for spring?

• Time to say ‘Adiós’ to muscular tension and stress?

• Interested in organic, 100% fresh, products based on Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and European herbal ‘pharmacy’?

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

FREE REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT WITH ORGANIC PRODUCTS

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

Pabulum - NUTRITIONAL COACHING Summer culinary nutrition workshops.

Making healthy food pretty and fun.

Learn how to create beautiful and delicious dishes using a whole, fresh and plant-based ingredients with a certified nutritionist.

Individual Workshop Dates: July 2nd, 16th & 30th from 7.30pm-10.30pm. €60 per class (includes all food and drinks) *Only 4 seats available per class 100% Vegan & Gluten Free To reserve a seat, contact Mariah at:

ServiDigest - HEALTH ServiDigest has more than 40 years experience working for your health and are pioneers in colorectal cancer prevention. Nowadays, colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers and the prevention is the best treatment. The cure for colorectal cancer depends on preventative measures and its early diagnosis.

Detecting symptoms at earlier stages is the key to a good outcome. However, if it is discovered at an advanced stage, it has a five-year survival rate. They have two important digestive screening programmes: the Colorectal Prevention Programme and the Digestive Cancer Prevention Programme.

ServiDigest. Thinking of people. Fostering prevention.

Medical and Surgical Center ServiDigest

Balmes 334, 08006 T. 93 415 3464/93 545 0990 uad@servidigest.com www.servidigest.com

mariah@pabulum.com.es

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BUSINESS SERVICES

CALL NOW TO ADVERTISE HERE

93 451 4486

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

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

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

FREE CONSULTATION

INTEGRA ADVISERS - CONSULTANT Legal and business consulting firm that promotes entrepreneurial activity in Spain. Services include; Accounting, tax, financial advice, immigration, national insurance registration and payroll, legal and real estate advice.

Aribau 207, Ppal A1, 08021 T. 93 414 6242 M. 615 405 045 info@integra-advisers.com www.integra-advisers.com

Sánchez Molina -

Barcelona Women’s Network - BUSINESS

LEGAL PRACTICE

• Barcelona’s premier network for international women • Over 200 members from 30+ countries.

• As a social club that supports local charities and offers a business network, activities include social gatherings, cultural outings, volunteer opportunities, and business seminars.

We help women thrive and feel at home in Barcelona.

The lawyers at Sánchez Molina speak English, Spanish, Italian and French.

They can help with your business licensing services, legal defence and representation, registration under any form of ownership, accounting services and work and residency permits.

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

Supported charities 2014 - 2016 membership@bcnwomensnetwork.com

president@bcnwomensnetwork.com www.bcnwomensnetwork.com

Mac in Barcelona COMPUTERS Stéphane Clément is an Apple technician and consultant with over fifteen years of experience.

Anna Piqué, a native from Barcelona, assists Stéphane with her business and communication background.

Their focus is on providing good service and installations with clear communicative skills and personal advice. The aim is to solve your computer troubles and teach you how to improve your daily use of your Mac and its various accessories, giving you an opportunity for a more pleasant and safer computer experience.

Cami de Mas Roig a Mas Fuster 47 Valldoreix, 08197, M. 608 994 599 info@macinbarcelona.com www.macinbarcelona.com

20% DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

Easi-Sat - TELEVISION SERVICE

GES40 - ENGLISH SPEAKING LAWYERS

Specialists in satellite TV, HD, audiovisual and unmatched for quality and reliability throughout Catalunya for many years. Their professional team provides satellite television from across Europe, including Dutch, French, Italian and Russian, at unbeatable prices. IPTV for Uk terrestrial channels and French tv via internet.

(See our website for details). BEIN sports and many more available. Follow them on Facebook-Easisat and Twitter ´@PaulDuval15´.

They are a law firm established in 1986. They aim to provide comprehensive legal counselling to both individuals and companies, in all areas of law. As a team they are highly specialized in a number of different legal areas, with high levels of training, experience and professional strength. They offer a fully personalised service, providing rapid, effective responses without compromising the quality of their service. They also offer their clients a 24-hour online consultation service.

Through this online follow-up service, interested parties can access their virtual office to consult the information in their files anytime and from anywhere.

“We devote our efforts to provide full support and assistance to conduct any personal or business activity in Spain with confidence”.

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

FRENCH TV NOW AVAILABLE VIA INTERNET

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

9/23/15 12:13 PM

Geo Mac - COMPUTERS

Mrs.Q design studio GRAPHIC DESIGN

GRAPHIC DESIGN STUDIO

George Cowdery is a freelance Mac technician who has been providing valuable support to the Mac community in Barcelona for over 15 years.

Among the services he offers, George can help clients with maintenance and upgrades, hard drive replacement and ADSL setup. He can also provide consulting and tutorials according to his clients’ needs.

Mrs.Q Design Studio offers a range of specialised services.Contact Mrs.Q for their competitive business packages which includes branding, stationery design and advertising for print and web. They also design promotional material such as flyers, posters and brochures. They specialises in bespoke invitations.

Visit their Etsy page to see examples for their work www.etsy.com/shop/ MrsQdesignstudio.

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

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

Fábrica de Flyers - BUSINESS

Gusto Films - FILM

Fábrica de Flyers brings the successful concept of high class printing and design to Barcelona at competitive prices and provides a quality service to match. Eight years of experience on the German market made them one of the leading printing agencies, with clients all over Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Fábrica de Flyers is not an advertisment agency, but the best partner to create your publicity!

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

Nos gusta gustar.

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

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

ZEST Architecture -

Corsa - DRIVING SCHOOL

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

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

Ask for the special Metropolitan reader offers

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

Mykeli - RELOCATION AND

VISIT OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY www.barcelona-metropolitan.com

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BUSINESS ADVISORY Mykeli provide solutions for professionals and individuals by offering tailored prearrival and settling-in services.

- Home search (rental and sale) - Visa and permit formalities - Bank account setup - Social security and tax registration - Insurance information - Utilities and supplies hook up - Business creation and relocation - Language and cultural integration Consultation is free.

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

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

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

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

La Luna Shipping LOGISTICS We offer a complete service to efficiently manage any kind of transport. Anywhere in the world, from a overnight courier service, to an airfreight or seafreight shipment to the other side of the world. We are specialist managing personal effects shipments, small “boxed” removals from Barcelona to Europe, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand. Don’t look further, LA LUNA shipping is your one stop shop for your transport and logistics needs in Barcelona.

T. 93 220 1715 info@laluna.coop www.laluna.coop facebook.com/ somos.lalunashipping

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

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

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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

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

Advice given in Spanish, English and German.

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

FELISA COWORK - COWORKING SPACE Felisa CoWork is a welcoming, charming and professional space in the centre of Barcelona. A place to boost your productivity in creative surroundings, among like-minded people. They offer free drinks, organic fruit, energetic breakfasts and back massages.

Open 24h. Visit their website for more details on the services they provide.

T. 93 539 0588 M. 601 111 292 hola@felisacowork.com www.felisacowork.com

GOBAI Group - PROPERTY SOLUTIONS GOBAI Group is a property project management firm specialising in technical projects and the legalisation of activities and facilities in and around Barcelona. They are experts in sourcing commercial premises and coordinating renovation work and licensing with the local authorities. They provide clients with local knowledge and expertise.

M. 615 345 627 info@gobaigroup.com www.gobaigroup.com

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COACHING COLUMN

JOB

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

www.classifieds.barcelona-metropolitan.com

SAM SAYS...

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

THIS MONTH: NAVIGATING BARCELONA’S RED-TAPE Dear Sam, This city drives me crazy when it comes to getting things done.

Yesterday, I spent two hours on the phone with Vodafone trying to get my internet fixed, which hasn’t worked for 72 hours. Two days ago, I was trying to pay a bill at the bank and it took two hours before one of them politely informed me that they don’t accept payments at that branch. I waste tons of time and energy trouble shooting situations that shouldn’t require so much effort in the first place. I love living here but the red tape and lack of efficiency is bogging me down. Any words of wisdom for a fellow Canadian?

Victim of Bureaucracy

Hi Victim of Bureaucracy, It sounds like you’ve been ‘Spained.’ That moment when you hang up the phone or walk out of a store and feel like you’re more confused and further behind than when you started. I’ve often thought about writing a book recounting some of my most frustrating ‘red tape’ moments living here.

Movistar and Orange have brought me to tears on more than one occasion, if it makes you feel any better.

When it comes to getting things done, Barcelona is ‘unique’. It probably operates quite differently to what you are used to, and it’s definitely hard to wrap your head around. That being said, if you’re choosing to stay, there are a few practical ways you can ‘work (with) the system’ so that you save time, energy and emotional stress.

Know when to call and when to go in person: Depending on what it is, many things are a lot easier and faster when done face-to-face, especially here. If you’re installing (doing the ‘alta’) for a new phone or internet service, go in person. If you’re referred to an office or a specific department in a building across town to find someone or access information, call first and clarify that it’s actually where you need to go and the hours of operation. Ask if there’s a need to make an appointment. Nothing wastes more time than physically going to the wrong place when all you had to do was call and confirm the details.

Ask to speak to the manager: Although things are changing, Spain is still quite hierarchical in the workplace, and sometimes people are afraid to make ‘out of the box decisions’ on their own. If you’re not getting the help you need or feel that the service has been unfair, ask to speak to the manager. If that doesn’t work, ask for the employee’s name and identification number; that’s a sure way to scare them into stepping it up or passing you along to someone who will do a better job.

Find your ‘person’: This is one that I live by. No matter what you’re trying to do, connect with a specific person on the other end who you can depend on and refer to. If it wasn’t for Albert all those years at Orange and Maria in the visa office, I’d be lost. Find someone who you trust and don’t just be another name on the list–make sure they know who you are and that you’re able to reach out when in need.

Get a follow up contact (email, name and phone number): If you’re ever filing a claim, submitting paperwork or doing anything that requires you to ‘wait and see’, be sure to get the contact information of someone you can follow up with.

This allows you to remain slightly in control as you have the option to check in (recommended) and find out the status of your petition.

Bring photocopies: Anyone who’s lived here for more than a week will quickly understand that you can’t get much done without several photocopies of most documentation. Have some on file of your passport, NIE/DNI and any other piece of paper you deem important so you can pull it out at a moment’s notice.

Laugh: As long as you live in Barcelona, ‘Spain Days’ are inevitable. Ultimately, if you choose to live here, sometimes you just have to laugh it off.

To share your thoughts on this column or ask Sam a question email sam@blueprintcoaching.ca, or write to Metropolitan at editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com

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INTERVIEW

Chick Corea

74. PIANIST, KEYBOARDIST AND COMPOSER. USA.

Photo by Toshi Sakurai (2014) Courtesy Chick Corea Productions

TEXT BY JEFF BRODSKY.

To be honest, I have been very fortunate with my career. Life has its ebbs and flows, but I don’t consider having a low point. I’ve been lucky to write and play my music without a lot of hindrance or obstacles.

A high point has to be seeing Bobby McFerrin body surfing at Carnegie Hall. He got the audience to pass him from the stage all the way to the back of the hall. He came back on stage to finish the song, totally unharmed! We always have a blast performing together.

I usually don’t have enough time on tour to really explore. But in my many visits to Spain, I’ve enjoyed the food. I love watching Flamenco dancing—that’s such a beautiful art form. I’m also an admirer of Antoni Gaudí. His buildings have a very organic look and feel to them unlike any other.

I will have both an acoustic piano and electric keyboards [for the concert in Barcelona]. Some new music and arrangements–I haven’t quite put that together yet. We are going to be rehearsing at my new studio in Florida for a few days before the tour. So it will be a surprise!

Playing with musicians that inspire me—young or old—is part of what I do. So it’s always great to find them and create music together.

This year is also my 75th birthday [and 50th anniversary in music]. We have lots of special concerts lined up in the US and Europe, as well as Japan. My manager and my production team have been putting together a documentary and we plan to release that. I hope to be releasing more of my online workshops and master classes. So a lot is happening…stay tuned!

Chick Corea & The Vigil plays Auditori de Barcelona October 22nd at 8pm.

By Ben Rowdon

SCOOP

I was very young, three years old maybe, and my mother would record my father’s band off the radio. She used a straight to vinyl Parlaphone recorder. I still have those old vinyl recordings. My father used to use it to record me when I was a kid. One of those recordings is on a box set released in 1996. I think I was about seven on that recording.

I had started studying piano around four years old—my father was my first teacher. At the time, my biggest influences were Bud Powell and Horace Silver—later on, compositionally, those influences came by the way of Mozart and Beethoven.

Miles [Davis] was, and still is, a great inspiration to me. I’m always inspired when I see musicians being competent and creative. “Exploration” was the order of the day back in the Sixties and Seventies when I was beginning to find my way in music. Miles certainly had a big part in that for me.

At the time I was in love with Miles’ ‘Sketches of Spain’, with Gil Evans. I still am. On that record, Gil has this fantastic arrangement—it’s the second movement of Joaquin Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez. I fooled around with that theme, extended it and composed some melodies, which turned out to be the main themes of ‘Spain’. I always play Rodrigo’s second movement as a keyboard intro.

Paco [de Lucía] inspired me in the construction of my own musical world as much as Miles Davis and John Coltrane, or Bartok and Mozart. Paco’s moving on leaves a gigantic hole in the musical life of this world. It was a lot of fun performing with him—he was a passionate musician.

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