Barcelona Metropolitan Issue 234 by Barcelona Metropolitan

JULY 2016 Nยบ 234

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A CHANGE OF TUNE? Live music and the Law maKe a sPLash

Watersports in the city

LiGhts, cameRa, actiOn! Barcelona on the big screen

the wRitinG On the waLL Rock art in Catalunya

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MUSIC

FASHION

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

A PLACE OF MY OWN

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contents

METROPOLITAN contributors

{ISSUE 234} JULY 2016

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

What’s on 20 22 24 26

Music Art Misc. Pullout Calendar

Sam Walker-Smart has always been a film fanatic, eventually earning a degree in the subject in 2010. Also possessing a passion for a good tale, Sam has written for publications such as Little White Lies and CLASH Magazine in the UK, interviewing and reviewing artists and groups of various genres. He moved to Barcelona in 2015 and now spends his time exploring the city and enjoying the first-rate café culture and atmosphere.

DiRectoRies 41 43 44 49

Food & Drink Health & Beauty Business Jobs

TORI SPARKS is a professional musician living in Barcelona. Since 2005, Tori has released five albums under the auspices of her own record label: Glass Mountain Records. Her most recent work, El Mar, is a bilingual collaboration with Barcelona-based flamenco fusion trio, Calamento. When on the road, she plays shows in everything from large festivals to small house concerts. Tori writes for Metropolitan on topics dealing with society, culture, art and music, and she enjoys the opportunity it presents to meet fascinating people.

FeatuRes 12 RePoRt: liVe Music anD the laW Tori Sparks takes a look at recent legislation affecting live music venues in the city. 18 aPP caPital Barcelona is becoming a hotbed for apps and mobile technology. 29 as seen on scReen Three films based in Barcelona. 30 Wet anD WilD Where to get your aquatic kicks this summer. 34 unDeRgRounD aRt A picture is worth a thousand words in these rock art sites around Catalunya.

Publisher The Noise Lab S.L. Managing Director Andrea Moreno Consulting Editor Esther Jones Editor Carol Moran Art Director Aisling Quigley Account Executives Jalil Alui, Richard Cardwell Editorial Assistants Aminah Barnes, Rosalind Bond, Christina McKeon Frutuoso, George Rexstrew Design Assistant Melissa Fry Contributors Eimear Corrigan, Miquel Hudin, Rachel Huffman, Esther Jones, Tori Sparks, Tara Stevens, Sam Walker-Smart, Sam Zucker Photographer William Rose Illustrator Ben Rowdon Cover Photo Jo Tapi Carrer Duc 6, 08002 Barcelona. Tel. 93 451 4486 www.barcelona-metropolitan.com Editorial: editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Advertising: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com General: info@barcelona-metropolitan.com.

MIQUEL HUDIN is a wine journalist based in Priorat. Originally from California, Miquel founded the Vinologue wine book series in 2008. He adjudicates at international wine fairs and writes for various publications, including Decanter, Harpers, and the World of Fine Wine. Additionally, he’s a certified sommelier and Sherry Educator. You can see more of his work at www.vinologue.com and www.wineonsix. 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

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IN THE CITY

WALK THIS WAY

NEW IN TOWN

CAMINO. CARABASSA 2. Alternative footwear and clothing shop, Camino, aims to offer its customers an alternative to disposable high street fashion, instead focusing on local designers and items made in Spain. The shop hosts several clothing lines, including a range of shirts with prints designed in Bali, and sunglasses. The main attraction, however, is the store’s own footwear label, Maians, a range of lightweight, colourful pumps, designed with the Barcelona lifestyle in mind. A joint venture between American Chad Weicmr and local designers Alfonso de la Puente and Nete Ortaez, the brand takes its name from the island upon which Barceloneta was built—a neighbourhood that the trio felt represented their clientele, with its contrasts and wide range of characters. Inspired by Spain’s long history of shoemaking, the founders toured Spain’s small, independent factories in search of expertise and a workshop space. As a result, their shoes are made using traditional moulds and methods, lending them a quality associated with a by-gone age. thecaminostore.com

ON YOUR MARKS...

OPEN CAMP. PLAÇA DE NÈMESI PONSATÍ. Ever dreamed of winning an Olympic gold medal? Scoring the winning goal at the World Cup? Driving a Formula 1 car? Now you can step into the shoes of your sporting idols at the world’s first theme park dedicated to sport, which opened last month. Suitably located in the Olympic Park, the spirit of Barcelona ‘92 is alive and kicking as this new initiative puts the spotlight back on Montjuïc, which served as the central hub of activity during the Games. The experience-based park combines technology with the concept of open sport (where it’s the taking part that counts), to allow visitors to feel like an elite athlete for the day. All kinds of sporting events can be tackled, after which you can watch slow motion replays and check the app to see if anyone has beaten your time. www.opencamp.com

MOVE OVER MARIO

LUIGI. ROGER DE LLÚRIA 50. Whether you’re prone to regular Italian cravings or simply fancy the occasional slice of pizza, there’s a new spot in town that will leave you feeling more than satisfied. Located just two blocks from Passeig de Gràcia, Luigi is an Italian restaurant run by Naplesborn Alfredo and his brother. Inspired by their mother’s cooking, Luigi offers an extensive and authentic menu with a modern twist, as traditional hearty dishes are served in a rustic, yet glamorous, space. “This restaurant is a dream come true,” explained Alfredo. “We just do what we love.” The flavoursome toppings, fluffy crusts and wood-fire oven mean that Luigi’s pizzas are well and truly Neapolitan, and the impressive Berkel 1040 meat slicer ensures that your prosciutto comes wafer thin. There are also plenty of pasta dishes on offer, including gluten-free options, as well as a number of delectable, all-Italian wines. And when it comes to dessert, you can’t go wrong with the tiramisu or the chocolate-filled ravioli. www.luigiristorante.es

TERRACES FOR SIPPING COCKTAILS

HOTEL CONDES DE BARCELONA. Passeig de Gràcia 73 The Alaire terrace on the eighth floor of this hotel on Passeig de Gràcia offers views stretching from La Pedrera to the Sagrada Familia. This is a lovely spot for an early evening bite to eat with a good selection of tapas and burgers on the bar menu. HOTEL PULITZER. Bergara 8 A perennial favourite for locals in search of a chilled spot with music to match the mood; DJ sessions are held on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays on the Pulitzer’s terrace. With lush foliage, earthy tones and an ample selection of gin and tonics and cocktails, here’s a place you won’t want to leave.

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IT’S GIN O’CLOCK

DUX COCKTAIL BORNE. VIGATANS 13. Located just off the main tourist thoroughfares of Carrer de l’Argenteria and Princesa in the Born, Dux offers 40 premium gins and cocktails that can be described as modern classics. Owner Angel David Asensio has created a sophisticated, speakeasy-style ambience with soft lighting and a copper and gold-hued interior—perfect for a girls’ night out, a romantic date or even a little alone time. The bartenders at Dux offer a personal, friendly service, as they speak to customers and find out what flavours they like in order to offer something that is familiar but with a hint of experimentation. “People call me an alchemist,” said Asensio, who makes the artisan gins himself—the wasabi-infused gin, which is as delectable as it is intriguing, demonstrates this perfectly. The creative thinking that goes into cocktail-making at Dux focuses on treating all of the senses, so the cocktails are as visually and aromatically appealing as they are delicious. www.facebook.com/ duxborne

DUQUESA DE CARDONA. Passeig de Colom 12 The vibe is calm and sophisticated on the terrace of this boutique hotel on Passeig de Colom. Lounge back on a comfy sofa, cocktail in hand, or take a table in the shady bar area. This is a the perfect terrace to share with visiting friends for the stunning views over the port and beyond. HOTEL 1898. La Rambla 109 Wooden decking, a pool to cool off in, lots of greenery and fabulous views. It’s hard to believe you’re just above the busy Ramblas when you step onto La Isabela, Hotel 1898’s luxurious terrace. HOTEL VILLA EMILIA. Calàbria 115-117 This lesser-known terrace has an intimate feel, with terracotta walls, lush palms and romantic lighting. Tasty food, a fine selection of gin and chilled music make this boutique hotel in Sant Antoni a great option.

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IN THE CITY

STREETLIFE

DANS LE NOIR?

PASSEIG DE PICASSO This portico-lined avenue marks the boundary between the narrow, medieval streets of the Born and the Parc de la Ciutadella—the city’s green lung.

PARC DE LA CIUTADELLA. This 18-hectare park was created in the mid-19th century following the demolition of a military citadel. Today, the park remains an inviting spot for a stroll around its small lake or a picnic on the grass. Within this natural space, you’ll also find the zoo, the Parliament of Catalunya, the Cascada—a lush fountain designed by Josep Fontserè—a beautiful plant house known as the Umbracle, and the Hivernacle (greenhouse). Until the end of August, the park will host the summer concert series, Música als Parcs, which offers free, outdoor concerts in parks across the city.

Much more than a restaurant, at ‘Dans le Noir?’ diners enjoy exquisite cuisine in the dark. Without sight, eating becomes a radically different sensory experience. Customers can discover the true essence of flavour and shed their preconceived notions of fine dining. Without light, routine activities—from holding your cutlery and raising your glass, to communicating and expressing yourself—become challenging. Experiencing this creates a new awareness and respect for the dining room personnel, all of whom have vision impairments. barcelona.danslenoir.com

10 IKIBANA.

CASTELL DELS TRES DRAGONS. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner for the Universal Exposition of 1888, this Modernista building currently houses the Museum of Zoology. Castle-shaped and crowned with battlements, it is one of the most impressive features of Parc de la Ciutadella.

22 AIRE DE BARCELONA.

The Aire experience was first conceived from a desire to recover the ancient Greek and Roman bath tradition. In Barcelona, there is no better place to do this than a former storage area of the local market in the Born, where old wells, which once supplied the city with water, were found. This huge, high-ceilinged space has been beautifully decorated and filled with candlelight, creating a tranquil ambience where you can relax and rejuvenate in the turquoise waters. American businesswoman Priscila has visited Aire de Barcelona many times. “It’s one of the reasons I come back to Barcelona as often as possible,” she said. “The whole experience is just amazing.” www.airedebarcelona.com

METROPOLITAN PEOPLE DIRK, 59 HOLLAND, TEACHER

David Bowie during the ‘Thin White Duke’ tour in 1976. It was a brilliant performance against an artistic video backdrop, which was unusual at the time.

Over 100 years after a passenger boat reached Brazil with the first Japanese immigrants, Ikibana is still nurturing a gastronomic fusion of the two cultures. This fusion respects Japanese sobriety, meticulousness and technique while surprising customers with an explosion of flavours, colours and native Brazilian products. “Sushi is so popular in the city right now, but Ikibana is on another level,” said local resident Xavi, 32. “I recommend the Bruce Lee Spicy Maguro Tempura and the Lobster Uramaki.” www.ikibana.com/born

WHAT IS THE BEST LIVE CONCERT YOU HAVE EVER BEEN TO?

EVA,

FARO, 35

U2 in Camp Nou in 2005. There were 90,000 people at that concert. When we danced the ground moved.

I’m a big fan of electronic music, so it would have to be Sónar in 2012. The multimedia performance was amazing.

37 SPAIN, HAIRDRESSER

COLOMBIA, MUSICIAN

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36 HELSBCN. HelsBCN is a swimwear brand handcrafted in Barcelona. Their designs combine Mediterranean essence and Brazilian cuts, and they believe the best memories are made under the sun. Every suit dazzles with colour and unique prints, and their seamless comfort allows for long hours spent splashing in the sea. www.helsbcn.com

40 MAGIC. Local rock fanatics flock to this club en masse to dance out the weekends until six in the morning. On its two dancefloors, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a mash-up of tattoos, young partygoers and techno-haters. Since its opening in 1976, Magic has embraced counterculture, punk and new wave, never straying too far from its headbanging rocker roots. www.magic-club.net

JANICE, 41

IRELAND PERSONAL ASSISTANT

I went to Primavera sound in 2013 to see Nick Cave And The Bad Seeds. I had seen them before in Paris, but the outdoor concert in Barcelona was great.

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IN THE CITY

A PLACE OF MY OWN THROUGH CREATIVE VISION AND UPCYCLING, SWEDISH COUPLE JENNIE AND LINUS HAVE CONVERTED AN OLD POBLENOU WORKSHOP INTO A MINIMALISTIC HOME

imilar to many places in Poblenou, Jennie and Linus’s building looks uninviting from the street, but has untold potential inside. The Swedish couple moved to Barcelona a year ago in pursuit of sun and a simple life. After multiple online searches failed to produce the right apartment, they stumbled upon this place. Although it wasn’t listed as a liveable space, they were up for the renovation challenge. “When we first moved in, there was nothing here. Not even running water,” said Linus. The walls and ﬂoor were black, and the kitchen was non-existent. Most people would have run for the hills. However, both Jennie and Linus, 30 and 29 respectively, were over the moon. They knew they had the vision and patience to transform this former metal workshop into an ideal home.

“We’ve had to be really creative to make this place function as an apartment” “Essentially, this was the realisation of a childhood dream,” explained Linus. “Both of us have always wanted to live somewhere with plenty of room, where we could do big things

like build a skateboard ramp or have a massive New Year’s Eve party.” Jennie agreed that her favourite thing about their apartment is the fact that they can just run around. “We have problems sitting still,” she said with a laugh. The vastness of the apartment makes it quite versatile. The couple haven’t built their skateboard ramp yet, but they have had students from a nearby audiovisual school shoot music videos here. Also, Jennie gives lessons for her after-school programme, Kids Hack Club, here. “We’ve had to be really creative to make this place function as an apartment,” she said. “I think the kids I teach pick up on the creative energy ﬂowing through the space and it helps them to develop their own original thinking and problem-solving skills.” Jennie and Linus certainly had to think outside the box when it came to the layout and design. Their first obstacle was how to divide the wide, open space into ‘rooms’ without putting up walls. To start with, they hung ﬂoor-to-ceiling white curtains to conceal two beds on opposite sides of the room. These separated nooks became their bedroom and a guest bedroom. Next they had to tackle the kitchen. “The problem was that every concept we came up with—no matter how oversized—still looked small and insignificant in the space,” said Linus. So in the end, they used industrial sheet metal to create a substantial kitchen. They then stacked

Sleeping areas have been created by hanging drapes from the ceiling

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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Natural light floods into the warehouse-like space through a wall of windows, emphasising the industrial aesthetic

galvanised shelving units on top of each other to form their cupboard, and converted giant yellow scaffolding into their workstation. “You can probably tell that we up-cycle as much as possible,” Jennie revealed. It’s their impressive ability to upcycle, plus Linus’s passion for making furniture and building things, that have set the tone for this Poblenou apartment. For instance, Linus made their massive dining room table by soaking wood-fibre boards in oil. They found mismatched chairs at numerous places around the city to complete the set, and now it’s the primary furnishing that ushers people through the front door and invites them to sit down and get comfortable. They’ve decided that their next project will be something to cover the wall of windows. The natural light that the windows provide is wonderful for their mood—and their electricity bill. However, direct sunlight streaming in for multiple hours a day makes the place unbearably hot during the summer months. They’re experimenting with shades to cover sections of the windows, but no permanent solution has been found yet. Linus joked that they might resort to wearing wetsuits filled with ice to keep cool this July. Underneath some of the windows are more galvanised shelves dotted with knick-knacks.

“Everything has a story,” said Jennie. A lot of the items are from their travels, like polished volcanic stones from Costa Rica and a white sand collection, while other things remind them of home or inside jokes, such as Linus’s grandfather’s old-school cameras and a bird statue given to Jennie to poke fun at her fear of the animal. These objects comprise the only decorative items in this spacious, yet sparse, apartment. Jennie and Linus prefer to keep things minimal and leave room for their imaginations (and their feet) to run wild.

as have hanging ceiling

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STOP

THE MUSIC!

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Photo by Tori Sparks

SMALL LIVE MUSIC VENUES IN BARCELONA HAVE BEEN UNDER THREAT FOR SOME TIME, BUT HAS THE AJUNTAMENT CHANGED ITS TUNE? BY TORI SPARKS

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de Conciertos de Cataluña (ASACC), whose objective is to defend the interests of Catalunya's music venues, and facilitate communication between them and the administration. The ASACC has also been heavily involved in the thinking behind the new interpretation. In the past, the live music discussion has often ignored the issue of small venues entirely, something Zapata regards as “a travesty in a city that has four prestigious music schools, a rich local music scene, and important festivals that attract people from all over the world.” Zapata believes that the various branches of government involved in the decision-making process do not have a coherent vision of how to deal with this issue. While the ASACC’s relationship with the Department of Culture is “fluid and cooperative”, the Department of the Interior is “only concerned with security measures—the question of culture is not perceived as relevant to their goals for the community”. According to Zapata, the circular amendment is a useful step in the right direction. “While it doesn’t come close to solving the many problems facing small music venues in Barcelona, it allows them to breathe again without living in constant fear of huge fines and other unfair repercussions.”

WHAT DOES THE LAW ACTUALLY SAY?

THE MEDIA’S ROLE IN THE DEBATE

In short, there is no new law, but a new interpretation by the city council (the Ajuntament) of the existing law relating to live music performances (Decret 112/2010). In March this year, the Institut de Cultura de Barcelona (ICUB, Ajuntament of Barcelona) issued an amendment to the previous interpretation of the law, as set out in a 2011 'circular' (084/2011). This amended circular was finally signed by members of the Ajuntament on May 11th, technically permitting live music to be performed in any place with a bar, restaurant or café licence. In the past, only places with a specific and narrowly defined entertainment licence could schedule concerts— hosting an open-mic night in a neighbourhood bar was actually illegal. The law has, until recently, been inconsistently enforced, as obtaining one of these licences was close to impossible for small spaces under the previous interpretation. The new interpretation sounds like good news for live music, but the situation is complicated. The fine print says that any venue wishing to host concerts must also comply with stringent noise and security requirements, including the installation of sound limiters, sound-proofing, a fire exit—the list goes on.

Nando Cruz is a journalist for El Periódico, amongst other publications, and has been deeply involved in covering the local music scene since 1989. He feels that being a music journalist comes with an unspoken responsibility to cover the issues that affect the local scene. Cruz has written in detail about the issues facing live music venues in Barcelona since the debate began— not for any personal or political motivation, but because he is also an avid music fan. “I simply believe that 100 more musical bars in Barcelona would make the city happier and healthier,” said Cruz. “A city with a more diverse music scene is also a city more attuned to diversity, justice and social consciousness.” Cruz has interviewed members of the government, cultural entities, musicians and more on this subject, and his conclusion is that there is still a long way to go. “To this day, we are constricted by laws from Franco’s era that considered music to be a nuisance. Changing the laws will be difficult, but before this can happen, we have to change the public perception of music from being a noise problem to playing an important role in local culture.”

Photo by Tori Sparks

THE PEOPLE INVOLVED: GOVERNMENTAL AND CULTURAL ORGANISATIONS Dani Granados is the Coordinator of Cultural Planning for the ICUB, as well as a musician, producer and professor. He has been instrumental in shaping the circular amendment and other cultural initiatives under mayor Ada Colau, and is on a mission to transform the relationship between cultural and political entities in Barcelona. Granados indicated that the new interpretation was never intended as a quick solution to the issue of live music venues in Barcelona; rather, it is one critical step in the process of nurturing culture in the city, and there is still a lot of work to be done. “Historically, culture has been relegated to large spaces, segregated from the day-to-day life of the average citizen. We want to make it more accessible to the people. In order to do that, we need to put legal measures in place that will encourage this kind of system, and reeducate both the government and the public so that they perceive local culture as a normal part of their lives,” Granados said. “Music is a social phenomenon that belongs to the people. We have to stop seeing it only in financial and political terms, and start seeing it as a tool to unite the community.” Carmen Zapata is the head of the Asociación de Salas

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Arco de la Virgen, a small cultural centre in the Raval, had 7,000 members when it was forced to close its doors

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Photo by Jo Tapi

n September 2015, a small cultural centre in the Raval called Arco de la Virgen presented its last concert, after being ordered to stop all musical presentations and clear all music equipment from the premises. At the time it had over 7,000 members. Since then, Arco de la Virgen’s founder, Sergio Marcovich, has collected over 20,000 signatures in an online petition to make the laws regulating cultural associations more flexible, thereby allowing them to reopen. It remains closed. In January 2016, a tiny but historic bar in Gràcia, Heliogabal, closed its doors after receiving over €18,000 in fines for staging small concerts— something the bar had been doing for two decades, but without an official licence. In May 2016, it hosted a huge fundraising concert in Razzmatazz called Pagar la Multa (‘Pay the Fine’) to help raise money to offset the debt. It, too, remains closed. Since March 2016, there has been talk in the press and on the street about a new law that will allow any bar in Barcelona to legally host live music—something that sounds like utopia to live music fans, and anathema to neighbours who fear being disturbed at all hours of the day and night.

…AND THE MUSICIANS WHO PLAY THEM Originally from Washington DC, Marc Curcio is a local musician and self-proclaimed political junkie who has been living in Barcelona for 13 years. “In recent years, the city has concentrated on catering for tourists, which has turned it into an expensive city where money is the first priority,” observed Curcio. He believes that, as a result, it has become increasingly difficult to find a location and audience interested in local, original music, as tourists tend towards cover bands. Curcio says that the circular amendment, and other efforts by Colau’s city council are helping, but that unless she is able to stay in office for longer than four years, the effects are likely to be reversed.

Photo by Bianca Bijan

SMALL VENUES… The change in the interpretation of the law means a bar like Heliogabal is technically allowed to host concerts. Whilst this may seem like good news, Heliogabal has a maximum capacity of 39 people, which makes it difficult to make ends meet as a music venue. If the venue extended its space, it could double its legal capacity. However, in order to do so, the owners would have to obtain a permit, which can’t legally be granted until the new interpretation is put into operation. “Until these things actually happen, we can’t be sure of what the future holds,” said Miguel Cabal, the bar’s manager. “There’s no point spending a huge sum of money on renovations until the laws are clearer.” Now that the circular amendment has been approved, they hope to reopen in October, but are currently unable to make concrete plans. Sergio Markovich, founder of Arco de la Virgen, is a tireless activist in the debate over live music in Barcelona. He has been interviewed countless times, attends meetings with government and cultural organisations, organises petitions and grassroots efforts, has a constant social media presence, and even made a documentary about closing Arco de la Virgen— yet he is still trying to find a solution for non-profit cultural associations. “We can tell that the current government is trying to make a difference, but while the new interpretation’s main objective is to stimulate culture, it doesn’t propose viable solutions to the issues at hand,” said Markovich. “The main problem is that it still obliges small spaces to conform to the same regulations as a nightclub, which is impossible.” The new interpretation of the law does not address the issue of neighbourhood associations that do not have a bar or restaurant licence. “At the moment, we are in legal limbo,” Markovich said. “The law doesn’t protect small non-profit organisations like ours. It doesn’t technically prohibit our existence—it simply doesn’t mention us at all. There is no legal framework that allows us to exist.” He hopes to be able to press the issue at roundtable discussions this summer, but there is no clear road towards reopening in sight.

Photo by Tori Sparks

Gràcia bar, Heliogabal, organised a fundraising concert at Razzmatazz in May to help pay off some €18,000 worth of fines

Local musician Marc Curcio believes that it has become increasingly difficult to find a location and audience interested in homegrown music

WHAT THE CIRCULAR COVERS •

•

• •

Any venue with a bar, restaurant or cafe licence may host live music. This is a change from the previous interpretation of the law, which required venues to acquire a specific licence designating them as a ‘musical bar, concert hall, dance hall or discotheque’. The venue must take appropriate measures to insulate the infrastructure so that the resulting noise level is no more than 45 decibels on the street. If the venue is adjacent to housing, the noise level shall not exceed the maximum of 30 decibels in the bedroom(s) of the home between 7am and 11pm, and 25 decibels between 11pm and 7am. Venues in the more densely populated districts of Ciutat Vella, Gràcia, Eixample and Sants-Montjuïc may only programme live music until 11pm. Venues located in other neighbourhoods in Barcelona may do so throughout their normal hours of operation. Authorised sound limiters must be installed where possible. The Ajuntament will allot €400,000 to help venues install sound insulation, provided that the venue meets safety and other requirements, and complies with all other aspects of the law.

WHAT THE CIRCULAR LEFT OUT •

Non-profit neighbourhood cultural associations that do not have a bar licence to operate a bar are not mentioned anywhere in the new interpretation of the law. These organisations are currently in legal limbo.

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English Summer Program Monday, June 27th - Friday, July 22nd

STUDENTS FROM

3-17

yEaRS OlD

MORNING PROGRAM: from 9.30am to 2pm ALL DAY PROGRAM: from 9.30 am to 5 pm* (*Lunch included)

• Classes and activities in English from Monday to Friday. • Art, sports, video, swimming. • Qualified native teachers. • Transportation included. American School of Barcelona | Jaume Balmes 7, 08950 | Esplugues de Llobregat Tel. 93 371 4016 | Email for more info. english@asbarcelona.com

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Photos by Tori Sparks

“I see things possibly getting better, but they’re not better yet. If Colau gets voted out, things will go back to the way they were, forcing bars to buy noise limiters manufactured by the cousin of a politician, systemic corruption, that kind of thing.” Curcio laments the loss of Arco de la Virgen and Heliogabal, saying that their closure was a huge blow to the local music community. He hopes that grassroots efforts will put them back on their feet.

THE NEIGHBOURS Several public forums reflect the reactions of local residents to the announcement and subsequent signing of the circular modification, ranging from enraged to enthusiastic to largely indifferent. On El Periódico’s online forum, Entre Todos, Ángel López of Hospitalet posted, “Yes to music, no to music venues,” and suggested that the government only allow live music venues to be located outside of the city centre to control noise pollution. According to Mercedes Rodríguez, from Barcelona, the new interpretation “will make it insufferable to be in your own home!” On the other end of the spectrum are residents like Carlos Lopez, who lives on the same street as Arco de la Virgen. He wrote a passionate letter to the Ajuntament, pleading for the rights of small venues and emphasising their value to the community. In the case of Arco de la Virgen, he said that its presence transformed what was a poorly-lit and abandoned street in the Raval into a safer, happier place to live, and that its current absence is a huge loss to the neighbourhood. Other members of the general public, like Ramon Burniol, take a moderate position. In Entre Todos, he said that as long as the local venues adapt to and follow the laws regarding sound restrictions, and make a reasonable effort to control the noise outside, he has no problem with live music venues near his home.

Pony Bravo playing at Heliogabal's Pagar la Multa concert

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? Everyone—from cultural associations, bar owners and musicians to members of the general public and representatives of the Ajuntament— is ultimately left wondering what the future holds for Barcelona's live music scene. Will the city be bursting with original music? Or will it be impossible to live in peace? The most likely scenario is neither; rather, a city that continues to struggle with issues of zoning, noise pollution, overpopulation and the perceived conflict of interest between participating parties. The impact of the new interpretation of the law will be shaped by the way in which all parties act and react in the coming months. Will there be a spirit of collaboration in an effort to renew Barcelona’s local live music culture, while still protecting the rights of the residents? Or will the antagonism that currently exists between certain parties tank the good intentions of the ICUB, ASACC and grassroots activists? For now, Dani Granados and the ICUB are planning initiatives to run in parallel with the signing of the circular amendment, such as roundtable mediation, to resolve any issues that arise. The first sessions will take place this summer, and will include government members from the Ajuntament’s Departments of Culture, Urban Planning and Ecology, representatives of neighbourhood groups, the police, members of the music industry and cultural organisations. This measure is designed to monitor the enforcement of the law, measuring how well the new interpretation is working, and to ensure good practice is demonstrated by all involved. The ICUB is also working towards making ‘live music space’ an official legal term for small venues that are neither concert halls or nightclubs. This category is yet to be defined, but it would offer recognition to those currently in legal limbo, such as cultural organisations, thereby making them eligible for official assistance and protection.

SMALL

Music Venues RAVAL Arco de la Virgen. Verge 10. (Closed until further notice) Big Bang Bar. Botella 7. Cronopios. Ferlandina 16. Freedonia. Lleialtat 6. Jazz Sí. Requesens 2. Pastis. Santa Mònica 4. Robadors 23. Robador 23. GRÀCIA Astrolabi. Martínez de la Rosa 14. Cafe Rock and Roll. Torrent de l'Olla 48. La Caja Fuerte. Bruniquer 57. Cara B. Torrent de les Flors 36. El Col.leccionista. Torrent de les Flors 46. La Finestra. Balmes 224.

IN BARCELONA Heliogabal. Ramon y Cajal 80. (Closed until further notice) Soda Acustic. Guilleries 6. La Sonora de Gracia. Riera de Sant Miquel 5. BARRI GÒTIC Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8. Mutuo Centro de Arte. Julia Portet 5. L'HOSPITALET DE LLOBREGAT L’Oncle Jack. Roselles 32. EIXAMPLE Sala Slow. París 186.

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Carles Ferreiro, founder of dotopen, on stage at an Apps4Bcn event

App FOR IT TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION AND APP CREATION IN THE CITY By SAM wAlker-SMArt

Barcelona has become a hotbed for technological innovation, developing many homegrown apps such as Glovo

sk your average Joe what comes to mind when you think of Barcelona and you’ll no doubt hear the words sun, architecture and creativity banded about. But for the better part of the last decade Barcelona has also been inseparably linked to another word and world—that of apps and mobile technology. The last decade has seen the city take on the once unlikely title of ‘app capital’, a true hotbed for imaginative mobile-led solutions. We caught up with Barcelona native and founder of open innovation firm dotopen Carles Ferreiro, as well as Sharing Academy’s CEO and Founder Jordi Llonch Esteve, to discuss this recent trend from an insider’s perspective. “Before 2006, it was a very traditional, average European city,” started Ferreiro. “It had a bit of a tech footprint thanks to international companies that were here—large companies that had interesting corporate innovation departments— but there was no startup scene, no supporting network, no venture capital, no specialised lawyers, no communications professionals. The whole ecosystem was being built in real time.”

The ecosystem was strangely boosted by the 2008 market crash. With youth unemployment alone jumping up 16 percent nationally within a year, the more entrepreneurial spirits realised that they’d have to build their own platforms for work. Startups began appearing at such a rate it put the rest of Europe to shame. Furthermore, Spain’s low wages and Barcelona’s renowned beauty made it a no brainer for international entrepreneurs. “Startups can’t pay big salaries to their employees, not at the beginning, so they strive to offer other benefits,” Llonch Esteve explained. “Barcelona is a beautiful city that has great climatic conditions, it is close to the sea and the food is awesome. Also, the salaries in Spain are very low compared to other countries, so the wonderful conditions of the city plus the low wages, make a great environment.” Economic and location reasons aside, there’s another key component to the city’s success— its tenacious spirit. “The traditional strengths of Barcelona are creativity, lifestyle and a certain sense for the unusual. That comes in handy for the tech industry,” said Ferreiro. “The architecture is a good example. The buildings here are obviously solid, they’re still standing after a few hundred years, but they tend to be

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unique, their creativity is clearly expressed.” A historic desire for independence has also bred a toughened outsider’s soul, perfect for a grassroots approach to business. “The idea of collaborating is quite embedded in the city. It’s wrapped up in iconic imagery, like the castellers (human castles) tradition, we empower each other. The more people we have the bigger the castle we can create.” This collaborative approach is also fundamental to Sharing Academy’s entire premise—a platform that connects university students that have passed a subject with others who are currently studying it. “The greatest achievement is when senior university students realise that they are experts to junior students,” said Llonch. But with any success come the pitfalls and the risk of self-cannibalisation within an industry. One just has to look at the changing face of cities such as Portland and London through rapid gentrification to see the dangers. “The moment it becomes too expensive to live here, startups will abandon the city and look for another place to develop their innovative products,” noted Llonch. “It is in our hands, the hands of the entrepreneurs, to empower the citizens and capture new talent from all over the world, by being responsible and avoiding bubbles.” For now, the landscape seems safe though, with the

Global Mobile Suppliers Association’s (GSA) decision last July to extend Barcelona’s host status for the Mobile World Congress until 2023. Last year’s event drew over 94,000 attendees and boosted the local economy by over 430 million euros—much of this going to job creation. Additionally, platforms such as dotopen’s ‘Smart City Hack’ branch are eager to involve citizens in a world traditionally dominated by big business. Dotopen has been working with the city’s residents to find tech solutions that fit Barcelona’s changing environment. “The concept of the ‘smart city’ relates to infrastructure, networks and big companies. Things like that can seem remote and abstract to citizens,” said Ferreiro. “Working with apps, ‘personal tech’ seemed the obvious way for us to try and shift the idea of ‘smart cities’ to include the citizen.” Last year’s Smart City Hack event was new territory for all but resulted in 64 apps being created, 6,423 citizens engaging internationally and the participation of 11 global cities. Amongst many of the exciting concepts to use the project as a springboard was Barcelona-based delivery app, Glovo, and Enerbyte’s ‘Virtual Energy Advisor’, a social app that helps to monitor your energy use and encourage community-led action. None of this would be possible, however, without the open-minded approach of the city.

“We tend to think of technology as the big names that we read in magazines or blogs,” observed Ferreiro, “but sometimes these big transformations start really small and can start locally. In Barcelona we have experienced a really good reception to the idea of citizen participation and co-creating a city through the development of services built as apps. people seem to find it all very intriguing.” So what makes a really successful app? “The technology side, though critical, is not the major component for success,” offered Ferreiro. “The major factor is how well the app fulfils the users’ needs. Try and conceptualise something that will change his or her behaviour as little as possible while solving a problem.” Ease and simplicity, it seems, is the key.

BORN IN BARCELONA The following apps have all been created right here in the city. Glovo Spain’s answer to US company, Postmates, Glovo offers to deliver practically anything to your doorstep—from any shop or restaurant and within the hour. The express delivery app has been successful in winning AppCircus Barcelona in 2015, and being nominated for the Mobile Premier Awards 2016.

Social Diabetes Winner of the UNESCO WSA mobile healthcare awards in 2012, the Social Diabetes app is a self-management tool for diabetes sufferers. It tracks exercise, adjustments to insulin dosages, behaviour patterns and more, whilst connecting you to a community of other people diagnosed with diabetes.

Wallapop A second-hand marketplace where users can connect with other nearby users to sell or purchase goods. It has raised millions in funding, and is recognised as one of the most well-funded startups in the country.

Sharing Academy The app is designed to unite struggling students with graduates and organise tutoring sessions, in person or online, in preparation for their exams. Awarded ‘Best App’ at the Mobile Premier Awards just one year after its launch, Sharing Academy receives over 6,000 visits daily.

CookBooth Based in Barcelona and London, CookBooth communicates with thousands of foodies across the globe. Reaching 220,000 downloads within its first six months, this popular cooking app acts as a photographic, digital cookbook providing inspiration and easy-to-use recipes.

Barcelona Corre Meaning ‘Barcelona Run’, this app was developed by Barcelona’s city council and provides 23 running routes around the city. The routes are divided by district, challenge level and theme, each filled with information about the terrain, distance, pollen count, weather, green areas etc.

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WHAT’S ON

MUSIC

STRIPPED BACK

CONCERT LISTINGS

RIHANNA. PALAU SANT JORDI. PASSEIG OLÍMPIC. JULY 21ST. Despite the three-year gap between albums, Rihanna’s latest offering, Anti (2016), proves it was well worth the wait. Described by Rolling Stone as ‘a sprawling masterpiece of psychedelic soul’, Rihanna is once again pushing the boundaries of pop. Anti makes us reassess which music genre describes Rihanna’s work. Songs such as ‘FourFiveSeconds’—a 2015 collaboration with Kanye West and Paul McCartney— show the soulful depth of her voice, while her cover of Tame Impala’s ‘Same Ol’ Mistakes’ demonstrates her ability as a musician to take on different genres, such as psych-pop, and make them her own. Like the album, the Anti tour is said to be stripped down and raw, but for those fearful of a departure from her original sound, there are sure to be a few old favourites thrown into the set list.

1st. Abraham Mateo BARTS. Paral·lel 62. 1st. Marc Anthony Estadi Cornellà - El Prat. Baix Llobregat 100. 1st & 2nd. BeProg! My Friend 2016 Poble Espanyol. Francesc Ferrer i Guardia 13. 1st-3rd. Vida Festival 2016 Vilanova i la Geltrú. 2nd. Little Boots Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 5th. Cor Jove de L’Orfeó Catalá Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6. 6th. Nathaniel Rateliff BARTS. Paral·lel 62. 7th. Patti Smith Festival de Pedralbes. Diagonal 686. 7th. Blancafort Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6. 8th. Alejandro Sanz Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7. 8th. Alex Metric Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88. 8th-10th. Cruïlla Parc del Fòrum. Plaça del Fòrum 1. 9th. Junior Boys Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113. 10th. Joan Baez Festival de Pedralbes. Diagonal 686. 12th. José González Festival de Pedralbes. Diagonal 686. 14th. William Fitzsimmons BARTS. Paral·lel 62. 15th-17th. Rock Fest Barcelona Parc de Can Zam. Víctor Hugo 29. 16th. Barcelona Beach Festival Platja de la Pau. 18th. Ludovico Einaudi Auditori Fòrum. Plaça de Willy Brandt 11-14.

PUNK POET LAUREATE

PATTI SMITH. FESTIVAL DE PEDRALBES. DIAGONAL 686. JULY 7TH. American singer-songwriter, Patti Smith, is back on Catalan soil after an outstanding performance at last year’s Primavera Sound, when crowds were treated to a poetry reading and a performance of her classic 40-year-old album Horses (1975) in its entirety. This time, Patti Smith, who turns 70 this year, will be taking to the stage of the Festival Jardins de Pedralbes to show fans that she’s still got what it takes to put on a rock and roll concert. Known as the ‘punk poet laureate’, Smith played a highly influential role in the New York City punk rock movement, and she will, as always, be accompanied on stage by guitarist and composer Lenny Kaye, who she has performed alongside since the early Seventies.

21st. Rihanna Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7. 27th. Pedro Javier González and Dance Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6. 28th. Maria del Mar Bonet Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6.

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

6/22/16 12:11 PM

SUMMER SOUNDS Festival season continues this month with an eclectic range of gatherings.

ROCK FEST BARCELONA. PARC DE CAN ZAM. VÍCTOR HUGO 29. 15TH-17TH JULY. Now in its third edition, Rock Fest Barcelona presents a metal-filled lineup, with some of rock’s oldest living legends. Iron Maiden, Whitesnake and Slayer are just a few of the bands that rockers will be headbanging to this summer. Irish legends Thin Lizzy will also be bringing their timeless music to the Parc de Can Zam—keeping Phil Lynott’s spirit alive, Scott Gorham, Brian Downey and Darren Wharton will be joined by some new members, including The Almighty’s Ricky Warwick on vocals and guitar. Rockfest’s stellar lineup is making Barcelona a new mecca for moshers and metalheads. CRUÏLLA. PARC DEL FÒRUM. PLAÇA DEL FÒRUM 1. JULY 8TH-10TH. Parc del Fòrum just doesn’t seem to get a break. Having hosted Primavera Sound, it will now take on three more days of music with festival-goers enjoying Cruïlla’s eclectic lineup. This year sees Cat Power, Digitalism, Bomba Estereo, Damien Rice and more take to the stage, showcasing Cruïlla’s range of music genres. BARCELONA BEACH FEST. PLATJA DE LA PAU. JULY 16TH. Making sure you get your fill of electro and house this July, Barcelona Beach Fest is back with an impressive line-up featuring some of Europe’s top DJs, including Swedish duo and former members of Swedish House Mafia, Axwell^Ingrosso. They will be joined by world-renowned DJ legend, David Guetta, known for his chart-topping collaborations with a host of different stars, such as Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and Usher. Located close to Parc del Fòrum, this one-day beach festival is set to be a dance-filled affair.

N.COM

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WHAT’S ON

ART OPENINGS MEAM Fashion Art EU Fashion and art come together in this exhibition, which aims to create an appreciation for art, fashion and European values through the work of 28 designers. Until July 24th. Barra de Ferro 5. CAIXAFORUM Ming: The Golden Empire This exhibition reveals the extraordinary story of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644), a period of China’s history marked by economic strength and a dramatic flourishing of the arts. Until October 2nd. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 6-8. MUSEU D’HISTÒRIA DE CATALUNYA Morocco: An Ancient Tradition Displaying historical documents, artefacts and traditional clothing and jewellery, this exhibition offers an exploration of Morocco’s history and culture across its different regions. Opening July 13th. Plaça de Pau Vila 3. CCCB The Thinking Machine Ramon Llull’s theories of knowledge were unprecedented and controversial. This exhibition examines the Catalan philosopher’s impact on art, literature, science and technology. Opening July 14th. Montalegre 5.

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND

INFINITE SEQUENCE. FUNDACIÓ JOAN MIRÓ. PARC DE MONTJUÏC. JULY 1ST-OCTOBER 2ND. Infinite Sequence is dedicated to the work of conceptual artist Ignasi Aballí. Having won the Joan Miró Prize last year, a selection of Aballí’s pieces are on display until October to allow visitors to discover some of the key aspects of his work. With conceptual art, the idea presented by the artist is more important than the finished product, if there is one. The exhibition starts with pieces dealing with temporality, followed by a room dedicated to Aballí’s work on colour, and then another room dedicated to absence and invisibility. It concludes with a projection room featuring his video work on processes of semantic slippage. The presentation of the selected works follows a strict retrospective format creating a narrative that points to the idea of infinite continuity and open repetition, as referred to in the title of the exhibition itself. With the showcased works ranging from the Nineties until the present day, there will also be a number of new and exclusive productions to marvel at. www.fmirobcn.org

CLOSINGS ARTS SANTA MÒNICA Permit Yourself Moritz Küng’s exhibition explores the gap between the world of art and the world of books, where works of art have taken on the role of the book and the book has become the work of art. Until July 3rd. La Rambla 7. MNAC Antonio Gallardo Ballart Collection Medieval works from the Antonio Gallardo Ballart Collection will be exhibited, taking the viewer from the Romanesque period through to the Renaissance. Until July 3rd. Parc de Montjuïc. LA PEDRERA Toni Catany: Back and Forth This is a retrospective display of the selftaught photographer Toni Catany (19422013), whose work captures sentiments of nostalgia and tradition. Until July 17th. Provença 261-265.

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STARMAN ON SHOW

BOWIE: THE SESSION. ESPRONCEDA. ESPRONCEDA 326. JULY 14TH-SEPTEMBER 1ST. British photographer Gavin Evans is renowned for his uncompromising take on portraiture, having been commissioned by leading publications, including The New York Times and The Sunday Times Magazine. Big names, including Annie Lennox, Daniel Craig and Sir Ian McKellen, have braved his lens, as did the late, great David Bowie. From the moment his career began in the Sixties, Bowie was a groundbreaking figure in the worlds of fashion, music and art. His various personas and eclectic style made him a superstar, with his alter ego Ziggy Stardust becoming particularly iconic. Showing at Espronceda from July 14th until September 1st, The Session displays 20 portraits (some previously unseen) in a touching and intimate exposé of the man behind the legend. Captured during a 1995 Time Out photoshoot in London, it offers a revealing portrayal of an unguarded Bowie: exuberant, contemplative and exposed. www.espronceda.net

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

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IN THE SHADOWS

RAMON CASAS AND THE SHADOW PUPPETS AT ELS QUATRE GATS. MNAC. PALAU NACIONAL. PARC DE MONTJUÏC. UNTIL OCTOBER 31ST. Ramon Casas (1866-1932) was a Catalan painter and graphic designer at the forefront of the Modernisme movement. He was also the co-founder of the famous Els Quatre Gats bar, a favourite hangout among the artistic crowd of the time. Shadow puppetry made its Barcelona debut in Els Quatre Gats and, this month, MNAC opens an exhibition featuring some of Casas’ Chinese shadow puppets. The exhibition forms part of a series of commemorative events to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of Ramon Casas and features 11 of his lesser-known works, which are thought to be caricatures of: writer Àngel Guimerà, painter Maurici Vilomara, writer Pompeu Gener, cofounder of Els Quatre Gats Pere Romeu and Casas himself. The exhibition also includes other elements, such as posters, drawings, invitations and programmes related to Els Quatre Gats, that come from both the museum’s collection and external collections. The artistic and historical information on display will help the viewer to contextualise the use of these mediums and understand how they were used to break away from artistic norms of the time.

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WHAT’S ON

MISC. THINK BIG

THINKING MACHINE. CCCB. MONTALEGRE 5. JULY 14TH-DECEMBER 11TH. Ramon Llull (1232-1315) was a controversial philosopher, logician, writer and religious convert who created an innovative debating and reasoning tool called the ars combinatoria. He is heralded by some as the founder of modern computing, who claim that his system of logic was the beginning of information science. The ars combinatoria was a paper machine made of concentric circles that rotated and, in doing so, combined symbols, which represented universal ‘truths’ about the world. His concept of reality was, therefore, formed by combining ideas from across all the knowledge fields of his day, including philosophy, theology, science, politics, astronomy, medicine and law. The use of this mechanism, and its aim to unify the various branches of knowledge, was intended to create peace between religions by means of deduction, demonstration and dialogue. His way of thinking has gained a new relevance today, and this exhibition combines historical documentation with pieces from more recent artists who have been inspired by his work. www.cccb.org

POP-UP PICTURES

SALA MONTJUÏC. JARDINS DEL CASTELL DE MONTJUÏC. JULY 1ST-AUGUST 5TH. Enjoy an open-air film festival under the stars over the coming weeks as Sala Montjuïc returns for its 14th edition. On selected evenings between July 1st and August 5th, Montjuïc Castle will host a music concert at 8.45pm, followed by a short film at 10pm and the main feature at 10.15pm. Featured artists include the soulful Núria Graham and the Balkan Paradise Orchestra. You can bring your own picnic, but there will also be a snack bar on hand offering burgers, potato wedges and homemade cakes, as well as a selection of organic Catalan wines. Throughout the month, there will also be the opportunity to hear from some of the leading figures in the Catalan film industry, such as film critic Quim Casas and Fàtima Vilà, who is CEO of FX Animation Barcelona 3D & Film School. General tickets are available for €6, and you can discover the history of Montjuïc Castle with a guided tour for an extra €4. So whether it’s a family affair with Pixar’s Inside Out, a moving documentary with Amy or an excruciating night of horror with Silence of the Lambs, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the big screen outdoors this summer. www.salamontjuic.org

SUMMER NIGHTS

Summer is upon us, and this month there’s an array of events to help you make the most of the balmy summer nights. LA PEDRERA. UNTIL SEPTEMBER 10TH. Chill with jazz and wine on the most iconic terrace in Barcelona while drinking in the nighttime city views. Tickets €30. CASA BATLLÓ. UNTIL SEPTEMBER 24TH. Another famous terrace puts on nighttime events filled with art, drinks and music, with genres ranging from acoustic guitar and pop to R&B and soul. €29 POBLE ESPANYOL. UNTIL SEPTEMBER 2ND. With the most eclectic lineup of events, Poble Espanyol keeps us entertained all summer with comedy nights, musical singalongs, blues music and Mecal Air, an open-air short film festival. €5-€20. HOSPITAL SANT PAU. UNTIL JULY 28TH. Lluís Domènech i Muntaner’s elaborate Modernista hospital hosts a series of world music concerts in its gardens every Thursday at 9pm. €12.

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GET TO THE GREC

GREC FESTIVAL. VARIOUS LOCATIONS. 1ST-31ST. Barcelona is full of festivals, fairs and other artistic offerings, but one of the year’s most diverse events is the Grec Festival. This annual celebration of local and international cultures sees a unique fusion of performing genres that are showcased across the city, from music and dance to theatre and circus. It is not only a major summer attraction in Barcelona, but also a reference on the European performing arts calendar. Running throughout the month of July, performance spaces are used across Barcelona, but the central venue for the festival is the Teatre Grec—a beautiful amphitheatre that was built on Mount Montjuïc in 1929. There will be over 100 different performances in this year’s landmark 40th edition, including Catalan adaptations of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible (1st-5th) and Abi Morgan’s Splendour (1st-17th), an enchanting performance by Alonzo King’s renowned ballet company (15th-16th) and a music set from Metropolitan’s very own Tori Sparks (7th). lameva.barcelona.cat/grec

FOR MORE EVENTS VISIT WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

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STRETCH IT OUT

BARCELONA YOGA CONFERENCE. ESCOLA DEL SAGRAT. SAGRAT COR 25. 21ST-25TH Yogis from around the world will be flocking to Barcelona’s Sarrià neighbourhood to get involved in the sixth Barcelona Yoga Conference. With over 800 participants, the event attracts people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of experience—including those who have never spread their toes on a yoga mat before. The conference offers 20 different yoga styles from 60 international teachers, allowing yogis to try out new and unfamiliar techniques. The schedule includes music intervals and an array of activities related to wellbeing, such as Thai massage, therapeutic workshops, guided meditations and Dutch acrobatics. The Stand Village has over 45 stalls promoting products such as essential oils, healthy food, clothing and more. Tickets for the conference are available now, with prices starting at €115. Three percent of each entry will be donated to charitable projects. www.barcelonayogaconference.cat

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LUCY ROSE The Surrey-born singer cites Neil Young and Joni Mitchell as her main artistic influences. 9pm.

GEORGE BENSON The American music legend is the voice behind ‘The Greatest Love Of All’. 10pm. Jardins Palau

080 FASHION WEEK (26TH-1ST)

TUESDAY

SALA MONTJUÏC (UNTIL AUGUST 5TH)

MONDAY

LA BOHÈME Puccini’s Parisian tale of love, youth and tragedy is set in the Thirties in this fresh adaptation.

W EDNES DA Y

PATTI SMITH The singer-songwriter was instrumental in New York City’s

T HURSDA Y

WHAT'S ON JULY 2016

CHOIR FESTIVAL A range of choral performances feature in the 51st edition of this international festival. Various

JUNIOR BOYS The pop duo’s latest album shifts between edgy Chicago house,

VINTAGE MARKET Browse all things vintage at this free monthly market. 11am. Uni-

INDEPENDENCE DAY Celebrate the eve of Independence Day at this party, with food trucks and plenty of beer. 4pm. Edge Brewing. Llull 62.

INFINITE SEQUENCE Ignasi Aballí showcases his conceptual art at this exhibition. Fundació Joan Miró. Parc de Montjuïc. Until October 2nd. BARCELONA IMPROV GROUP This comedy troupe promise an evening of laughter in the season finale. 8.30pm. La Tinta Roja. Creu dels Molers 17.

TWO MARKET With everything on sale for €1, pick up a bargain at this secondhand market. 10am-5pm. Ovella Negra de Poblenou. Zamora 78.

BE PROG! MY FRIEND This progressive rock festival hosts a range of international talents. Poble Espanyol. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 13. 1st & 2nd. SALA MONTJUÏC Enjoy movies al fresco in the grounds of Montjuïc Castle. Montjuïc Castle. Ctra. de Montjuïc 66. Until August 5th.

SUN DAY

SAT URDAY

FRIDAY

BARCELONA BEACH FESTIVAL (16TH)

WWW.BARCELONA-METROPOLITAN.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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MING: THE GOLDEN EMPIRE The extraordinary story of the Ming dynasty is unveiled in this exhibition. CaixaForum. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 6-8. Until October 2nd.

LUDOVICO EINAUDI Beautiful piano sequences are in store with this iconic Italian pianist. 9pm. Auditori Fòrum CCIB. Plaça de Willy Brandt 11-14.

(PIC)

THE THINKING MACHINE This exhibition explores Ramon Llull’s influence on art, science and technology. CCCB. Montalegre 5. Until December 11th.

CUANDO VUELVA A CASA VOY A SER OTRO Four lives intersect in this inventive Spanish play. 8.30pm. Teatre Lliure. Plaça de Margarida Xirgu 1. 25th-27th.

GUIRI BUSINESS Meet entrepreneurs and business people at this event. 7pm. Quinto Quinta. Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 373-375.

MDLSX Award-winning actress Silvia Calderoni delivers an 80-minute monologue and DJ set in this Italian show. 8pm. Mercat de les Flors. Lleida 59. 20th & 21st.

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CUANDO VUELVA A CASA VOY A SER OTRO (25TH)

SUMMER ACOUSTIC With over 20 concerts per day, this two-week music festival celebrates all things acoustic. Various locations. July 18th-31st.

HAPPY HOUR Prizes are up for grabs at The American Society of Barcelona’s free networking event. 8pm. L’Atelier. Pau Claris 153.

BLUES JAM SESSION Led by singer ‘El Chino’, enjoy a chilled evening listening to jazz and blues. 10.30pm. Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

DOCFIELD This documentary photography festival hosts 30 exhibitions across the city. Various locations. Until September 15th. VIDA FESTIVAL (30TH-3RD)

THE MAGIC FLUTE This adaptation of Mozart’s magical epic is inspired by the silent films of the Twenties. 8pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59. 18th-28th.

MOROCCO: AN ANCIENT TRADITION This exhibition explores Morocco’s history and culture. Museu d’Història de Catalunya. Pau Vila 3. Until November 27th.

JOSÉ GONZÁLEZ The Swedish indie folk singersongwriter offers delicate guitar playing and gentle vocals. 10pm. Jardins Palau Reial Pedralbes. Diagonal 686.

M83 The French band behind 2011 hit ‘Midnight City’ take their inspiration from Eighties synthpop. 10pm. Jardins Palau Reial Pedralbes. Diagonal 686.

SEPTETO SAZONANDO DE CUBA These Cuban musicians present the most popular sounds from their native island. 10.30pm. Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8.

ST. PAUL AND THE BROKEN BONES Soul sounds come to Barcelona with this musical octet. 9pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

MINISTRY This Chicago-based group were pioneers of the industrial metal music genre. 7pm. Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

MECAL ROOFTOP Mecal presents film screenings on a hotel rooftop every Thursday. Hotel Silken Diagonal. Diagonal 205. Until September 29th.

MECAL AIR Enjoy a short film in the fresh air at this festival—today’s focus is sci-fi. Poble Espanyol. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia 13. Until September 2nd.

BARCELONA YOGA CONFERENCE Love yoga? This five-day conference welcomes 800 participants and offers a number of free activities. Escola del Sagrat Cor. Sagrat Cor 25. 21st-25th.

OUTDOOR CINEMA Enjoy an outdoor film with today’s screening of Pride (2014). 9pm. Jardins Sant Joan de Déu. Diagonal 557. 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th.

ALISON WONDERLAND The 29-year-old Australian DJ shows off songs from her debut album, Run (2015). Razzmatazz. Pamplona 88.

BACHCELONA This unique music festival commemorates the life of legendary German composer J.S. Bach. Various locations. 21st-26th.

RIHANNA The international star makes her only stop in Spain as part of her mammoth 71-show world tour. 7pm. Palau Sant Jordi. Passeig Olímpic 5-7.

VIVIR FLAMENCO Dancing, singing and guitar playing combine in this flamencofilled evening. 9pm. Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6. 20th & 30th.

EVA AYLLÓN This 60-year-old is one of Peru’s forefront Afro-Peruvian musicians. 9pm. Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

SAN MIGUEL MAS I MAS FESTIVAL The 14th edition of this festival fills the city with music. Various Locations. Until September 1st.

BRUNCH IN THE PARK With up-and-coming DJs, food trucks and other activities, enjoy a day of outdoor electronic music. 1pm. Joan Brossa Gardens. 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st.

PIC

BARCELONA BEACH FESTIVAL A world-class lineup of DJs bring their beats to the beach, including David Guetta and Martin Garrix. 12pm. Platja del Fòrum i Parc de la Pau. Sant Adrià de Besòs.

RIHANNA (21ST)

SOUNDEAT! Enjoy a fusion of great music, food trucks and fun in this child-friendly summer event. 12pm. Jardins Palau Reial Pedralbes. Diagonal 686.

PIKNIC ELECTRONIK What better way to spend your Sunday than at this family-friendly outdoor electro party. 12pm. Joan Brossa Gardens. Plaça de Dante. 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th & 31st.

VINTAGE MARKET Browse all things vintage at this free monthly market. 11am. Universitat de Barcelona. Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 585.

PARC DE LA LINERA Venture slightly further afield and enjoy free entry at this independent music festival. 11am. Parc de la Linera. Parets del Vallès.

JUNIOR BOYS The pop duo’s latest album shifts between edgy Chicago house, sultry electro and R&B. 8pm. Sala Apolo. Nou de la Rambla 113.

CARMEN, CARMEN, CARMEN Enjoy a tribute to the legendary flamenco Gypsy dancer, Carmen Amaya. 9pm. Palau de la Música. Palau de la Música 4-6.

ROCK FEST Big names in rock come to Barcelona, including Iron Maiden, King Diamond and Anthrax. Parc de Can Zam. Santa Coloma de Gramenet. 15th-17th.

CRUÏLLA There’s a mishmash of artists at this diverse and eclectic festival, including Damien Rice and Crystal Fighters. Parc del Fòrum. Plaça del Forùm 1. 8th-10th.

CHOIR FESTIVAL A range of choral performances feature in the 51st edition of this international festival. Various locations. 4th-10th.

LEHMAN TRILOGY This Catalan play examines the rise and fall of former financial giants, Lehman Brothers. 8.30pm. La Villarroel. Villarroel 87. June 28th-July 31st.

BOWIE: THE SESSION This touching and intimate exposé reveals the man behind the legend. Espronceda. Espronceda 326. Until September 1st.

TORI SPARKS Metropolitan’s very own presents a night of folk music and flamenco fusion. 10.30pm. Harlem Jazz Club. Comtessa de Sobradiel 8. TOM JONES (29TH)

ELS QUATRE GATS Chinese shadow drawings are added to the museum’s collection. MNAC. Parc de Montjuïc. Until October 31st.

TONI CATANY: BACK AND FORTH This retrospective display of Toni Catany’s photography captures sentiments of nostalgia and tradition. La Pedrera. Provença 261-265. Until July 17th.

FIRE!! Established in 1995, this international LGBTI film festival was the first of its kind in Spain. Casal Lambda. Verdaguer i Callís 10. 1st-10th.

7 PATTI SMITH The singer-songwriter was instrumental in New York City’s punk rock movement. 10pm. Jardins Palau Reial Pedralbes. Diagonal 686.

LUCY ROSE The Surrey-born singer cites Neil Young and Joni Mitchell as her main artistic influences. 9pm. BARTS. Paral·lel 62.

GEORGE BENSON The American music legend is the voice behind ‘The Greatest Love Of All’. 10pm. Jardins Palau Reial Pedralbes. Diagonal 686.

6 LA BOHÈME Puccini’s Parisian tale of love, youth and tragedy is set in the Thirties in this fresh adaptation. 8pm. Gran Teatre del Liceu. La Rambla 51-59. 1st-8th.

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CULTURE

Lights, Camera, Action! BARCELONA AS SEEN ON THE BIG SCREEN BY ROSALIND BOND

arcelona has long attracted directors who have tried to encapsulate its essence on film. But like all cities, Barcelona has many faces, and with each person's situation comes a unique experience. The films that attempt to define it are as varied and contradictory as the city itself.

VICKY, CRISTINA, BARCELONA Director: Woody Allen. 2008. Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall, Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz. Language: English, Spanish. This romantic drama about two young Americans, Vicky (Hall) and Cristina (Johansson), who spend the summer in Barcelona, received cynical reviews from some Barceloneses, many of whom fail to recognise their city in the airy, spacious houses, the clichéd urban imagery and the complete absence of the Catalan language. Their disapproval was likely heightened by the fact that the Ajuntament and Generalitat provided 10 percent of the film’s budget. In return, Allen presented the city of Barcelona itself as the third title character—an idealised, somewhat stereotypical, representation of a visitor’s Barcelona experience, which has, no doubt, helped attract more tourist money. Vicky and Cristina are naïve tourists who come to Barcelona in search of finding an authenticity that they feel is missing from their lives back home. They find themselves entranced by the beauty and culture of the city, as they live what they believe to be the ‘authentic’ Barcelona lifestyle, both having a passionate fling with a romantic Spaniard (Bardem) along this road of self-discovery. However, their attitudes come off as overtly pretentious and, ultimately, the film seems to poke fun at the tourist’s superficial search for authenticity and the modern-day tendency to idolise iconic cities. BIUTIFUL Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu. 2010. Starring: Maricel Álvarez, Javier Bardem, Hanaa Bouchaib, Guillermo Estrella. Language: Spanish, Wolof, Chinese. After the romantic, privileged city image projected by Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona, Biutiful drags us back down to earth. The film follows single-father Uxbal (Bardem), whose criminal dealings take us on a tour of Barcelona’s gritty underbelly. Uxbal is involved in a criminal

racket that has Chinese immigrants working in basement sweatshops to make handbags, which are then sold by African manteros on the streets. Viewers have commented that they struggle to see Barcelona in the dodgy streets and hovels where much of the action takes place. However, this is one of the key messages of the film—even a beautiful city like Barcelona can be ugly to the destitute. The occasional shots of the Sagrada Familia feel incongruous and highlight the contrast between the two different sides of the city. L’AUBERGE ESPAGNOLE Director: Cédric Klapisch. 2002. Starring: Romain Duris, Judith Godrèche, Kelly Reilly. Languages: Spanish, Catalan, German, English, Italian, French, Danish L’Auberge Espagnole brings to life the ‘Erasmus’ experience, following French student, Xavier (Duris), who comes to Barcelona to study economics and improve his Spanish. Some aspects of the story are universal to many Erasmus cities: the scramble to find a flat at the beginning of term; dingey accommodation at over-the-odds prices; living in an international group where communication happens in a mish-mash of languages. However, other aspects place the film firmly in Barcelona, such as a lecturer’s refusal to give the class in Spanish instead of Catalan—although this doesn’t deter the main character from trying to integrate. Xavier is keen to get off the beaten track and becomes a kind of tour guide for his friend, Anne-Sophie. This leads the audience on a tour of the city, from the famous tourist sights to the grubbier streets of the Raval, where Xavier scolds Anne-Sophie for dismissing the city as dirty and ugly, urging her not to take everything at face value. Like Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona, this film can be read as a story of self-discovery. However, unlike Vicky and Cristina’s romantic, stylish adventure, the characters in L'Auberge Espagnole learn their life lessons through hilarious, embarrassing situations.

MORE FILMS BASED IN BARCELONA AND CATALUNYA Los Tarantos (1963), The Passenger (1975), Barcelona (1994), Land and Freedom (1995), Todo Sobre Mi Madre (1999), En Construcción (2001), Gaudí Afternoon (2001), En la Puta Vida (2001), En la Ciudad (2003), El Gran Gato (2003), El Taxista Ful (2005), Perfume: The Story of a Murderer (2006), [REC] 1 (2007), [REC] 2 (2009), A Gun in Each Hand (2012) From top: Johansson in Vicky, Cristina, Barcelona; Bardem in Biutiful; Duris in L'Auberge Espagnole

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Summer at sea

GET YOUR FIX OF FUN ON THE WATER IN AND AROUND BARCELONA BY GEORGE REXSTREW

Paddleboarding in Barceloneta with Moloka’i SUP Center

ummer is heating up and it’s time to start scoping out the different ways to cool down. From relaxing on deck and exploring coves to jetpowered hoverboards and white water inflatables, take the plunge this month with our guide to getting wet in and around the city.

1947 British sailboat ‘Gemini’

PADDLEBOARDING Stand-up paddleboarding is an ancient relative of surfing, with roots in Polynesia, where it was used for centuries as a quick way to travel between islands. It’s very simple—you stand upright on a board and propel yourself forward with a paddle, to then ride in with the waves at your destination. At Moloka’i SUP Center in Barceloneta, you can paddle at your own pace, with lessons available for all ages and abilities. Whether it’s learning how to maintain your balance on the board or perfecting your race-stroke technique, a gorgeous Barcelona backdrop is guaranteed. Classes from €30, monthly membership €50. www.molokaisupcenter.com

SAILING After skipper Dave sold his house in 2008 to buy the boat of his dreams, he embarked on a voyage around the UK and then across the Bay of Biscay to Spain. He arrived in Barcelona after a number of trials and tribulations, and now invites you aboard Gemini—his charming and stylish 1947 wooden yacht. Bring your own snacks, speakers and swimming costume in case you fancy taking a dip mid-cruise. Whether you want to help hoist the sails or simply kick back and relax on the deck, experience true sailing along the Mediterranean coast with this knowledgeable captain and his British sailboat companion. Private tour €190, private sunset tour €240. Under 16s go free. www.classicsailbcn.eu

CATAMARAN

SPEEDBOAT

With a fully-equipped bar and giant hammocks for sunloungers, Catamaran Orsom offers a relaxing and scenic sail along Barcelona’s coastline. Holding a maximum capacity of 80 people, you can enjoy a 90-minute lunchtime cruise from €10.50. Or if you’re feeling indulgent, enjoy the special Jazz Cruise, complete with live saxophonist, for €14.50. Alternatively, chill out at sundown on the romantic Sunset Cruise for €16.50. www.barcelona-orsom.com

Barcelona Speedboat is an ideal way to marvel at the city’s skyline if you are on a tight schedule or enjoy your sightseeing with a dose of adrenaline. Departing from near the Columbus Monument, this high-speed, action-packed experience takes you the full length of Barcelona’s beachfront, and you’ll be back in the harbour within 50 minutes. Ticket prices start at a very reasonable €4.50, and it runs daily from 12pm-6pm. www.barcelonaspeedboat.com

PARASAILING Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s you floating 500ft above the water. Enjoy an exhilarating bird’s eye view of Barcelona as you soar through the sky. After boarding the boat in Barcelona, you will be fitted into your harness and head out to the open sea. Once you’ve put a little distance between yourself and the coastline, you will head to the back of the boat to be fitted with a parachute. As the boat gradually picks up speed, your feet will lift off the ground, and within seconds you’ll be floating 150 metres in the air surrounded only by seagulls. Prices start at €90 (single), €160 (tandem) and €210 (triple). www.lifestylebarcelona.com

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FLYBOARDING As one of the more innovative aquatic sports, the flyboard is a high-octane contraption that blasts its users out of the water like a joyful human fish. Those up for the ride stand upright on a small platform that shoots a powerful jet of water downwards, sending the attached board up into the air. The jet’s water supply is sucked up via a long pipe that trails behind you like a tail as the flyboarder whooshes out of the water in elegant arcs before diving (or belly-flopping) back into the sea and shooting under the water. €60 (15min). www.jetscoot.com

HOVERBOARDING Considered the sister product of the flyboard, the aquatic hoverboard also takes advantage of water jets that blast riders into the air. The only difference is that the participant ‘rides’ along it skateboard-style, doing spins and grabs as well as skimming along the water’s surface. Invented by French jet ski champion Franky Zapata, these nifty boards (which only went on sale two years ago) have a top speed of 25km/h and can reach heights of five metres. €75 (15min). www.jetscoot.com

Flyboarding

WHITE WATER RAFTING Take the three-hour trip west to Lleida and get wet in a fast-paced, action-packed river race adventure. You will begin the day with a short safety briefing, where you will receive your waterproof clothing in preparation for your aquatic adventure. Once you’ve climbed into the boat, however, there is no turning back, as you’ll be racing at spectacular speeds down the 14km white water rapid run, manoeuvring through the rocks and fighting the current. Be warned: this experience is not for the faint-hearted, but it is fun, fast and very wet! Perfect for lovers of the great outdoors. Available from €56 per person. www.lifestylebarcelona.com

KAYAKING

Kayaking near Sant Feliu de Guixols

Parasailing

Kayaks were invented thousands of years ago by the Inuit people of the Arctic, and their original purpose was to hunt and fish—‘kayak’ literally translates as ‘hunter’s boat’. The kayak’s stealth capabilities allowed hunters to sneak up behind animals on the shoreline and successfully catch their prey. It wasn’t until the Seventies that it became a popular sport, and now more than 10 white-water kayaking events are featured in the Olympics. By escaping the crowds and traversing crystalline waters accompanied only by the gentle sounds of paddling, kayaking is also a wonderful way to explore. In this adventure-filled day trip by Excursions Barcelona (currently rated as Barcelona’s top watersports activity on TripAdvisor), you can kayak alongside the rugged shorelines of the Costa Brava and discover some hidden treasures. The tour begins with a one-hour coach journey from the city’s Gothic Quarter to Sant Feliu de Guixols or S’Agaró, where you will be taken to a picturesque beach to climb aboard your kayak. Experienced, professionally-trained guides will then navigate you through the turquoise waters and, before you know it, you will be adventuring into small caves, snorkelling in coves, jumping into the water and perhaps even holding a sea urchin. No previous experience is necessary—you just need to be able to swim. Lunch is provided and you will be back in Barcelona by 7pm. Full Day Tour €70. www.excursionsbarcelona.com

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FASHION

in style

WORKING IN THE SUMMER HEAT CAN BE TRICKY, BUT LOOSE-FITTING SHIRTS, FRESH FLORALS AND SMART POLOS ARE ALL GOOD OPTIONS FOR KEEPING COOL IN THE OFFICE.

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Name: Claudia Age: 37 From: Holland Profession: Finance co-ordinator Dress: Mango Shoes: Merkal Bag: Stradivarius

GET THE LOOK

DOLO PERF CAP €35

MIMI POETE DRESS €69.90

MANGO SHIRT €25.99

GIOSEPPO SHOES €36.95

CAROLINE LEMKE SUNGLASSES €40

LEVI’S POLO SHIRT €45 CASA SANDALS €105 MIMI ENRIC GRANADOS 118. CASAS RAMBLA CATALUNYA 52. BLOCKSHOP DUC 8. CAROLINE LEMKE PELAI 62. LEVI’S STORE PASSEIG DE GRÀCIA 39. GIOSEPPO.COM

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HISPANITAS SHOES €109.90 33

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TRAVEL

ON THE ROCKS

CaTCH a GliMPsE OF OUr PrEHisTOriC PasT WiTH THEsE aNCiENT CaVE PaiNTiNGs BY ROSALIND BOND

picture is worth a thousand words, and whether you’re a fine artist or simply a keen employer of emojis, there are times when an image says it all. This desire for artistic expression runs deep within the human consciousness and can be traced back across the millennia to a time when humans lived in caves and killed animals with their bare hands. The rock art of the Iberian Peninsula is testament to this and also to the lifestyle of our predecessors. From Granada to the Pyrenees, there are 757 rock art sites that date from between 10,000BC and 3,500BC, 50 of which lie within Catalunya. Collectively, they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as ‘Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin’, and are the best insight we have into how our ancestors lived and thought. Through this imagery we can learn about myths, hunting rituals, beliefs about the afterlife, war strategies, political structures and internal hierarchies, proving that art is a universal language that crosses cultural barriers, and can communicate with future generations.

UlldECONa (TarraGONa) The Serra de Godall mountains, near the town of Ulldecona and the Valencian border, boast an impressive 386 figures distributed across 14

rock shelters, the first of which was found in 1975 by a young speleologist (a cave specialist). This area is considered to be the best place to view rock art in Catalunya for the extraordinary number of preserved paintings and the diversity of the representations. Over half of the paintings depict archers or various animal species, while the rest are mainly hunting-related (footprints, animal prints, arrows etc.). Due to the iconography present, and the natural refuge provided by the rock shelters (shallow, cavelike formations), experts have deduced that the groups responsible for the paintings would have been hunter-gatherers, rather than those who relied on agriculture. From examining the different species of animals represented, the images are thought to have been created between 7,000 and 2,000BC. The imagery is mainly Levantine—a style of painting characterised by human and animal forms portrayed in moments of drama, thought to date from the Neolithic period (10,000-5,500BC). This eventually led to the Iberian Schematic style, which is more abstract. Examples of the latter can be seen in the ‘Dark Cave’ at Ulldecona. In general, cave paintings indicate that a site was once an important gathering place where rituals were performed. The images also give us a glimpse into the collective imagination of the time, as they include representations of mythic hunting

tales, legendary characters and gods.

lEs MUNTaNYEs dE PradEs (TarraGONa) The sweeping peaks and gullies of the Prades mountain range provide the stunning backdrop for 15 rock art sites. The art clusters, dating from 9,000-2,000BC, are mainly schematic representations. However, two of them— the Mas d’en Llort and Mas d’en Ramon d’en Bessó—are in the more naturalistic Levantine style, showing representations of hunting as well as human figures.

rOCa dEls MOrOs dEl COGUl (llEida) The area around the county of Les Garrigues has been continuously inhabited by humans since the Paleolithic period. It’s no surprise, therefore, that they’ve left their mark. This is a site where we can connect with millennia of humans and try to interpret the messages that they left. The first group were the last of the hunter-gatherers, whose Levantine paintings date from 8,000 to 5,000BC, while the second group’s Schematic drawings date from 5,000 to 1,000BC. There are Iberian and Roman inscriptions mixed in amongst the older paintings, proving that the rock shelters have been in constant use throughout history. The

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FACTFILE

Clockwise from far left: The Phallic dance rock paintings, rocas dels Moros; village of rojals; Església de santa María, Montblanc; deer rock painting, Ulldecona

Roca dels Moros features a mixture of paintings and rock carvings and is the site of the famous (and somewhat amusing) ‘Phallic Dance’— an image of women in long skirts and naked bodies, grouped around a man with exaggerated genitalia—which identifies the rock shelter as a place of worship.

Els Vilars (llEida) This small cave tucked into the mountains to the west of Os de Balaguer has also been in use for thousands of years. Its smoke-blackened ceiling stands as testament to the cave’s historic role as a shelter to shepherds, though it is also the reason why the 4,000-year-old rock paintings lay undiscovered until 1970, when one was spotted beneath the soot. The clean up that followed revealed a total of 28 images adorning the 60 square metre cave. Three images have been identified as particularly significant. One represents a typical Levantine dance scene, in which a man has his arms draped around the waists of two women. Another depicts a hunting scene incorporating a variety of animals, including goats, wolves and foxes. The third is a schematic image that appears to be a tribute to the sun. The cave is worth a visit if only for the stunning views across the River Farfanya valley.

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ULLDECONA

MONTBLANC

A historic town in the south of Catalunya with a quaint old quarter, several Modernista buildings and a tourist office housed in a former olive oil mill.

A medieval walled town in the Muntanyes de Prades region with a charming and well-preserved historic quarter.

GETTING THERE Train. Barcelona Estacio de França-Ulldecona (2 hours 45 minutes) VISITING THE ROCK ART SITES Abrics de l’Ermita Interpretive Centre for Rock Art. Centre with photographic and audiovisual resources offering visitors an in-depth explanation of the site. The interpretive centre is located in the Ermita de la Pietat, a rustic hermitage built into the side of the Serra de Godall. The oldest part of the building dates from the 12th century. Tours of the rock shelters take place at 10am, 12pm and 5pm Tuesday to Saturday, and at 10am and 12pm on Sundays. Booking is recommended. www. turismeulldecona.com SLEEPING Albergue Ermita de la Pietat. A basic but historical retreat providing breathtaking views across the mountain range. www.ermitadelapietat.cat NEARBY ATTRACTIONS Medieval castle in Ulldecona. Perched on a hilltop above the town, this castle tells the story of Catalunya, from the Iberian period through to the ‘reconquest’ during the Middle Ages. La Farga de L’Arión. Ulldecona is home to the world’s oldest olive tree—a 1,701-year-old, gargantuan specimen.

GETTING THERE Train. Barcelona Sants-Montblanc (2 hours). VISITING THE ROCK ART SITE Tours to the rock shelters start at the stone village of Rojals, 13 kilometres from Montblanc. The tour lasts three and a half hours, during which time you will learn about the area’s flora, fauna and historical buildings. Reservations are necessary. The Rock Art Interpretation Centre in Montblanc (Pedrera 2) provides an in-depth look at the region’s cave paintings. www.montblancmedieval.cat NEARBY ATTRACTIONS Plaça Major. At the heart of the old town, this plaça is surrounded by the town’s finest mansions and displays a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Església de Santa María. Gothic church in Montblanc dating from the 14th century. Convent of Sant Francesc. Romanesque-Gothic convent established around 1238. La Mussara. This town was abandoned in 1959 under obscure circumstances, and its ruins lie in the Muntanyes de Prades region. Today it is encircled with mystery, with many believing the town was doomed. SLEEPING Mas Carlons. Hotel situated in a rural house just outside of Montblanc. The rooms are light and airy with beautiful views of olive groves and vineyards. www.mascarlons.com

EL COGUL A tiny village with just 200 inhabitants, located 22 kilometres south of Lleida. El Cogul boasts houses dating from the 16th and 17th century and a Renaissance-style church. GETTING THERE Car. Barcelona-El Cogul (2 hours, 164km) VISITING THE ROCK ART SITES The sites are located a kilometre outside the village, on the Camí d’El Cogul a Albagés. An interpretive centre, built into the landscape, helps visitors to understand the paintings and historical context of the rock shelters. The paintings can be viewed from Thursday to Saturday 10am-5.30pm and Sundays from 10am-3pm. To visit outside these hours, call 672 445 990 or email reservescogul.acdpc@ gencat.cat. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS Tombs of Saladar. Rectangular structures of Arabic origin carved into the rock, located about a kilometre from the rock paintings. They are quite hard to find so it’s best to ask a local. Mas de Melons nature reserve. Home to many bird species, such as the pin-tailed sandgrouse and stone curlew, who inhabit the moorland, barley fields and olive trees in this area. SLEEPING El Cogul doesn’t have many accommodation options. However, the Alberg Municipal (Plaça de la Vila 10) provides bright, clean and simple dormitory rooms. Tel. 97 312 0110.

OS DE BALAGUER A small town that sits on the River Segre, Os de Balaguer has a winding medieval quarter complete with city walls. The town was the birthplace of Gaspar de Portolá (1716-1784), explorer and founder of San Diego and Monterey. GETTING THERE Train. Barcelona-Lleida (1 hour), then catch the bus to Os de Balaguer (50 minutes). Car. Barcelona-Os de Balaguer (2 hours,163km). VISITING THE ROCK ART SITES There is a guided tour of the Els Vilars rock art site on Sundays at 10.30am, though other times can be arranged depending on group size. To book call 973 43 82 32 or visit www.lleidaitu.com. NEARBY ATTRACTIONS Wander the medieval streets of Os de Balaguer and the portico-lined Plaça Mercadal. Malignum Castrum. Dating from 1035, the town’s castle is of Arabic origin and dominates the skyline. It origanally formed part of a network of defensive castles in the region. Santa Maria de Bellpuig de les Avellanes. Located just outside the town, concerts often take place in this 12th-century monastery. SLEEPING The Santa Maria monastery is also a three-star hotel surrounded by rolling greenery and vineyards. B www.monestirdelesavellanes.com

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RESTAURANT REVIEW

AN AFFORDABLE TASTING MENU THAT LETS THIS JAPANESE CHEF SHARE HIS TRUE PASSION BY SAM ZUCKER MORE INFO

Rosselló 296. Tel. 93 328 3711. aiueno.com Open Mon-Sat, 1pm-3.30pm and 8pm-11.30pm. Closed Sundays. ✪✪✪✪

✪ NOT WORTH THE TRIP

✪✪ COULD IMPROVE

Recipe

Photo by Tara Stevens

STONE FRUIT ALMOND CAKE

INGREDIENTS 6 eggs Pinch of salt 235g caster sugar 475g ground almonds

Photos by Sam Zucker

Aiueno

ittle over a year ago, Kenji Ueno, chef and owner of popular Japanese izakaya tavern, Can Kenji, opened the doors of his newest project, Aiueno. A bit more subdued and decidedly more refined, this new venture sits just across the street from the Kyoto-born chef ’s flagship establishment. Having quickly gained a loyal following of his weekday, fixed-price lunch menu, and his slightly more elaborate five-course lunchtime tasting menu, Ueno also offers a seven-course dinner tasting menu for the unbeatable price of €28 (this varies slightly depending on the season and doesn’t include alcohol). Aiueno has an extensive à la carte menu, too; a quick scan of which left me feeling that just one visit was surely not going to be enough to sample all the mouth-watering dishes. In this narrow dining room, suited up in smooth blond wood, traditional paper screen dividers and subtle, hanging light fixtures, the seating is basic—one four-person table, four seats at a bar by the entrance, 10 seats along the sushi bar, and a large communal table with room for about 12 more diners. ✪✪✪ GOOD

This is an adaptation of an orange almond cake that I make at the Courtyard Kitchen cooking school during the winter, when citrus fruits are in their prime. It’s originally a Sephardic dish and uses almonds instead of flour, so it’s great for coeliacs. The dish has proven so popular—not just for dessert, but for breakfast too—that I now adapt the fruit according to the season and have one on the go pretty much any time I have guests in the house. It’s perfect picnic fodder, too. 500g peaches or nectarines (stoned, peeled and diced small) 15g baking powder 2 tsp rose essence Icing sugar to decorate

✪✪✪✪ VERY GOOD

Chef Ueno warmly greets guests from behind the bar as they enter, in typical Japanese fashion, and the service was friendly and efficient. The tasting began with a little blue ceramic dish holding a gelatine mould of chilled sōmen broth encompassing a tangle of noodles, julienne vegetables and poached prawns. The flavour of the gelatin itself was a delicate pathway to begin the meal, but the fresh, herbaceous burst that came from the shiso leaf garnish, and the kick of tiny wasabi pearls surrounding it, aroused my palate for the succession of diverse plates to follow. Next came one of my favourite dishes of the evening, the sunomono platter. Roughly translating to ‘vinegary things’, sunomono is a Japanese staple and comes in myriad forms. While the most common is the cucumber or seaweed versions, at Aiueno there is a little more creativity at play. Placed delicately in a row along a slender black tray sat a pristine Normandy oyster garnished with ponzu jelly and chives; a fried-then-chilled sardine in an escabeche of rice vinegar, soy and sugar; a crunchy heap of sweet and salty seaweed with fried baby fish; a spicy mound of tuna with sesame; tender, marinated seabass; and sliced

✪✪✪✪✪ NOT TO BE MISSED

METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 160°C. Grease a 22cm round bundt, or spring-form cake tin. In the case of the latter, line the base and side with baking paper. 2. Separate the fruit into two bowls (about 2/3 in one, and 1/3 in the other). 3. Beat the eggs, salt, sugar and rose essence on a high speed for at least 10 minutes until they are thick and glossy. 4. Place the ground almonds and baking powder in a bowl and mix well. Then, using a metal spoon, gently fold a small amount of the almond mix into the egg mix, followed by the fruit (from the bowl two-thirds full). Repeat until all three ingredients are well combined.

5. Pour into the prepared tin. 6. Bake for 55 minutes, checking the cake is cooked by inserting a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean and dry, the cake is cooked. If still sticky, cook for a further 5-10 minutes. 7. Cool the cake in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 8. When cool, top with the remaining fruit or, as I do, dried rose buds, and sieve over with icing sugar before serving. A sprig of mint will finish it off a treat. Serving suggestion: This cake is very moist, but I like to serve a bowl of crème fraîche on the side to cut through the sweetness.

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mackerel with ginger. Quickly following this eclectic, tangy assortment came a bowl of still-crunchy steamed vegetables, dressed in a creamy ponzu tartar sauce and topped with a rich, flaky fillet of seared hake, its skin crispy and gleaming. I made quick work of this dish, swilling the obligatory glass of Sapporo beer as I watched the small, speedy kitchen team work with focus and dexterity. After the hake came a tangled tempura nest of white asparagus and rocket. The white asparagus (delectably in season) was shaved thin and fried with a handful of rocket leaves, served on a plate with a little pile of garlic salt meant to be sprinkled to taste. Ueno explained that they slowly toast slivers of garlic in the oven, then grind it with salt to a fine powder. The tempura was fantastic and light, but hard to eat with chopsticks—I quickly gave in and took the whole thing in hand, chomping down and sending brittle green shards flying everywhere.

Ueno’s friendly nature and obvious comfort in the kitchen was a pleasure to behold The fifth course provides diners with an option of yakiniku (grilled beef rib) or miso-baked salmon, both served with a silky potato purée and vegetable garnish. I enjoyed tasting both, though of all the courses, this one seemed the least exciting. Flavour and technique had been steadily building throughout the evening, and these dishes seemed to pump the brakes. No matter. After a few bites these modest portions were gone, leaving clean plates that were quickly whisked away to make room for the decadent ‘sushi superior’ platter. Choosing the superior option adds €4 to your meal and buys you a tasty selection of prawn, toro tuna belly, seabass, red mullet, sea urchin and glazed eel sushi, plus one piece each of a salmon and tuna roll. All of the fish was expertly sliced and sublimely fresh. The meal ended with a bit of a culinary tangent in the form of a lemon poppy seed cake with thyme ice cream. The dessert is homemade, just like the rest of the food at Aiueno, though unexpected after all the distinctly Japanese dishes of the night. Overall, I was content with everything I tasted, and Ueno’s friendly nature and obvious comfort in the kitchen was a pleasure to behold. I need to give the lunch menu a try; and another evening meal (be it a tasting or a capricious à la carte selection) is most definitely on the cards.

in season: JULY

What to watch out for this month at the market: Stone fruit, such as peaches, nectarines and almonds. Tara Stevens is a food writer and cook who splits her time between Barcelona and her little cooking school in the Fez Medina. Passionate about Spanish and Moroccan cuisine, she takes traditional recipes and gives them a modern makeover using local and seasonal ingredients. Follow Tara on Instagram @courtyardkitchenfez and Twitter @taralstevens.

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QUICK BITES

El Magraner Boig Photo by Sam Zucker

AUTHENTIC GREEK FLAVOUR HIDDEN AWAY IN THE RAVAL BY SAM ZUCKER

MORE INFO Carrer d’En Robador 22 Tel. 93 011 8605 Tues-Fri 7pm-12am, Sat-Sun 12pm-12am. Closed Mondays.

ith high ceilings and radiant sunlight spilling in through its large windows and wide doors, El Magraner Boig will make you forget that you are in the heart of the Raval, whilst tucking into delicious, authentic Greek cuisine. Opening just over a year ago, this pleasant restaurant is a muchneeded addition to Barcelona’s Greek dining options, of which there are a paltry few. Each table at El Magraner Boig is made from rustic wood with attractive tile inlays that add the perfect punch of colour and tradition to the overtly minimal and modern decor. Full at midday with couples and families enjoying a light, flavour-filled lunch, we were lucky to secure a sunny table in the back of the dining room, with a gentle breeze coming in through the open back doors. The menu is broken up into ensaladilla (sauces, olives, dips and snacks), salads, tapas, mains and desserts. Some of the main dishes also come in tapa-sized portions, an offer I took advantage of when ordering a small

Tastings

portion of their tender kokinisto, a succulent stew of beef in red wine and tomato with a bright, minty garnish. Another favourite was the tirokafteri, a thick purée of feta cheese, Greek yoghurt, olive oil, green pepper and spicy chillies, served with hearty, toasted pitta bread. I wish I had been with a group of 10, as we could have ordered the lot and polished off more than a couple of bottles of the bright magenta, fruity-yet-dry Cretan rosé, for good measure. Classics like moussaka and dolmadakia (grape leaves stuffed with lemon rice) share the stage with courgette fritters and tzatziki, chilled octopus in red wine vinegar and olive oil, and Arnaki Frikase, a stew of pork in an avgolemono sauce of lemon and egg. Make your meal a truly authentic affair by finishing with a little glass of ouzo anise liqueur and a frothy café frappé—a strong, but refreshing, iced coffee drink that is wildly popular on the Greek islands, made from shaken Nescafé powder with water and sugar. With Barcelona’s summer weather in full effect, the light, delectable dishes of El Magraner Boig will surely find their way into my regular rotation.

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

SHERRY GOES ‘EN RAMA’

Some years back, the sherry producers down in Jerez realised that they had a problem in that, besides being a staple drink for Andalusians, no one in Spain was drinking sherry. This fortified white wine, aged using the solera system, was quickly being relegated to the annals of history. So, the D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry started taking strides to educate people about the drink and show that, while many are still convinced it’s a sweet wine, the majority of sherries are actually very dry.

I attended the Certified Sherry Educators course last year and was introduced to some of the modern incarnations that have arisen. One such example is the ‘en rama’ variety, which is basically a wine that hasn’t gone through the filtering processes of normal sherry. The advantage of this is that more particles from the solera process remain, producing a wine that is even more expressive than regular sherry. Some believe that this is simply a marketing ploy, but I find it to be absolutely wonderful.

LA GUITA EN RAMA - MANZANILLA This sherry takes everything wonderful about Manzanilla and amplifies it with sea salt and strong chalky mineral notes. Quite smooth and integrated in the mouth but with good citric acidity through to the finish. €9

TIO PEPE - EN RAMA FINO Light and bready in the nose with lively nutty notes. Crisp, dry and refreshing with a clean finish that allows it to be paired with just about anything. €15

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main pages JULY 2016.indd 5

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

ummer is here and the long, sunny days are perfect for getting out and about and exploring the rich culture on Barcelona’s doorstep. As the city’s residents look for cooler climes by the beach or inland, the region’s towns come alive with music

A SUMME R O F MU SIC AN D T RADIT IO N

and traditional festivities.

JULY FOR MUSIC FESTIVALS During July, live music fills parks, castle courtyards, gardens, museums and squares. With performances by leading national and international artists, you can while away your evenings with a glass of wine in hand to melodies from every period and style imaginable. For lovers of classical music, the Pyrenees Early Music Festival is held in a selection of unusual venues, including churches, archaeology sites, cloisters and natural settings. The Classical Music Festival in Santa Florentina offers a carefully-chosen programme featuring some of today’s leading artists. And, choirs and chamber musicians will be gathering around the organ of Montserrat to offer a wonderful repertoire of classical and contemporary music at the Montserrat International Organ Music Festival. If jazz is more your thing, make space in your diary for the Vijazz Penedès event in Vilafranca del Penedès, where wine and cava are paired with top international jazz. Fans

Vida Festival

of the Arenys Big Band shouldn’t miss their performance at the Arenys de Mar Jazz Festival—a festival that remains as committed as ever to up-and-coming Catalan groups. Rock fans should head to CanetRock for an unforgettable 12 hours of uninterrupted partying from dusk to dawn, courtesy of the best groups on the Catalan scene. In the Vallès area the Embassa’t festival oﬀers small-format gigs by some of the most exciting up-and-coming bands on the scene. VIDA—the International Festival of Vilanova i la Geltrú—takes place in a spectacular beach and woodland setting and brings together leading local and international artists.

AUGUST FOR LOCAL TRADITIONS Catalunya is passionate about protecting and celebrating its festivals and traditions. Towns pay homage to their patron saints and come alive with colourful street parades, papier mâché giants (gegants) and ‘big head’ ﬁgures (capgrossos), bandits carrying blunderbuss guns (trabucaires), music, dancing, groups of people dressed as devils who

Canet Rock: Ajuntament de Canet de Mar

set off fireworks (diables) and spectacular human towers (castellers). If you’re planning to spend August in or near Barcelona, here’s a small taster of what you’ll find: the Festival and Day of Sant Fèlix in Vilafranca del Penedès, which encapsulates what these festivals are all about—don’t miss the amazing human tower in Plaça de la Vila. The Festival of Vilanova i la Geltrú, in honour of Mare de Déu de les Neus (Our Lady of the Snows), features traditional dancing and the launch of 12 loud rocket fireworks (mortarets). In the Festival of Sant Bartomeu and Santa Tecla, in Sitges—declared a festival of national interest—you can enjoy the spectacular fireworks display, the entry of musicians, known as grallers, playing the gralla, a traditional Catalan instrument with a strident sound, and the traditional moixiganga where the Stations of the Cross are performed as a folk dance in parades. Over in Igualada, they’ll be celebrating their town festival in style, with plenty of dancing, special feasts and local traditions. Manresa, capital of the county of Bages, also celebrates its annual festival at the end of August, marking the end of the summer holidays. Don’t

Jazzarenys: JC Reigosa

miss the opening speech (pregó), the street parade (cercavila), featuring the gegants and papier maché dwarf figures (nans). Other highlights are the street parade (correfoc) with groups of people dressed as devils lighting fireworks, and the firecracker display (tronada) in the Plaça Major. Taradell, in the county of Osona, puts a fun spin on things as it celebrates the traditional Toca-sons Festival, as part of its main festival. In the opening speech, the chief constable and his militiamen inform the townsfolk that Toca-sons and his gang of bandits are wandering around the outskirts of town. Finally, the Festival of Granollers is well known for the good-natured rivalry between two groups, the whites and the blues, who vie with each other to whip up the best festive atmosphere. Are you brave enough to predict this year’s winner? For more information, visit www.barcelonaismuchmore.com Or follow them on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube (@bcnmoltmés) Vijazz: Diputació de Barcelona

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NEFW &D

FOOD DRINK

& IN

Bar D9 BAR4 POBLENOU Whether you are an Erasmus student, a football fanatic or a music lover, D9 Bar has at least one night a week for you. Equipped with a terrace, D9 offers a wide range of tapas, beers, cocktails and shots for every night of the week. With American Day on Wednesdays, Erasmus parties on Thursdays and music-themed parties on Fridays and Saturdays, there is always something for everyone.

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under 20 | 20-30 | 30-40 | over 40  food&drink visit our online directory

Pallars 122, 08016 Tel. 93 309 9202 I www.denou.bar Sun-Thurs 6pm-2.30am Fri-Sat 6pm-3am

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

CHICKEN SHOP & DIRTY BURGER 4BARRI GÒTIC

BAR DOS BILLARES4 RAVAL

Roast chicken and burgers – is there anything more appealing? This recently opened restaurant serves both! Their chicken from the Empordà region is marinated and cooked over coals by Chef Iñaki Moreno. They have some amazing Burgers on the Menu, with vegan and gluten free options too. Don’t forget to try their craft beers and cocktails! DJ sessions every Friday from 8pm onwards.

This well-kept secret is located in the basement of Casa Camper Hotel, where jazz, culture and billiard lovers can relax and enjoy an exclusive cocktail. This club offers a programme of cultural and music events for the most creative public. It is the ideal space for escaping the crowds or hosting business clients.

Duc de Medinacelli 2, 08002 Tel. 93 220 47009 christian@chickenshop.com Mon-Fri 1pm-12am and Sat 12pm-12am Sun 12pm-11am www.chickenshop.com, www.eatdirtyburger.com

Elisabets 11 | Metro Liceu Tel. 93 342 6280 Tues-Thurs 4pm-12am Fri-Sat 4pm-2am www.club.casacamper.com

LOIDI RESTAURANT4 EIXAMPLE

BLACKLAB BREWERY4 BARCELONETA

Loidi is a contemporary bistro, in which Martin Berasategui makes his cuisine accessible to everybody. Prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients, his cuisine is presented with an 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. Maître d’: Oscar Fernández. Mallorca 248-250, 08008 Tel. 93 492 9292 Mon-Sat 1pm-3.30pm and 8pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-3.30pm

Indian / Tandoori

The recently opened BlackLab Brewery offers customers a new experience in Barcelona––a place to enjoy a unique pint of craft beer, made just two metres away 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. New 1 hour beer tour every Sunday at 5pm. Tastings of 4 beers for €12. Quote ‘Metropolitan’ to receive a free BlackLab bag.

NEW BEER TOUR

IMPRFCTO BAR4 SANT ANTONI

SURYA4EIXAMPLE Surya Barcelona is an Indian restaurant that invites you to travel all the way to the streets of Mumbai, rich in colour, smell and exotic flavours. They offer a cosy and relaxed space where you can feel at home, drink, read a magazine, connect to the Internet and work, all while sampling some of their delicious dishes. After dinner you can relax with cocktails and enjoy their in-house DJs, from their The House Party collective on “Deep Fridays”, to Saturday night’s “Funky New Disco”.

Pau Claris 92 | Consell de Cent 236, 08011 Tel. 93 667 8760 www.suryabarcelona.com Mon-Sun 10am-3am

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

Located in the trendy Sant Antoni area, close to Barcelona’s famous clubs like Apolo and Plataforma, this bar has an intriguing interior, funny waiters and quality Belgian beers and specialities at a great price. It’s the ideal place to watch football with friends while pouring your own beers to avoid queueing!

MONDAY´S 5 BEERS €5

Parallel 104 Bj 2, 08015 Tel. 93 222 9801

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. With great vibes and great music, bring this ad and you’ll get 15% off a gin and tonic. Castella 1 | Tel. 93 676 0761 / 636 092 221 Tues-Thurs 6pm-2.30am, Fri-Sat 6pm-3am, Sun 6pm-2.30am, Mon closed facebook.com/kaizenafterwork | info@kaizenafterwork.com

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FONDA ESPAÑA4 BARRI GÒTIC

MANNÀ GELATS4 BARRI GÒTIC

Located in the emblematic Hotel España, the Modernist dining room, 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 are a tribute to the renowned chef’s origins.

Mannà Gelats offers homemade ice creams, waffles and crêpes in the heart of the Barrio Gótico. Their ice creams are inspired by family recipes, using the finest products. The fresh fruit sorbets are made with market-bought products, and boast a range of exotic varieties. Their passion is to please their customers with personalised attention.

Banys Nous 22 | Metro Liceu Tel. 93 342 7312 Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm Fri-Sat 11am-11pm www.mannagelats.wordpress.com

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

BRITTA’S NORDIC DELI4GRÀCIA

CAFÉ MENSSANA4 CIUTAT VELLA At Menssana, a creative and healthy cuisine is combined with gracious and knowledgeable service. There is something for everyone, with vegan and vegetarian options created using flavours from across the globe. They also offer a carefully selected range of local wines and beers, as well as smoothies and fresh juices. Their aim is to nourish your body and mind with delicious meals, served in a vibrant and friendly atmosphere.

Britta’s Nordic Deli is the first and only Scandinavian deli in Barcelona. Here you’ll find the most delicious sandwiches and smørrebrød in town. Moreover, they offer all kinds of specialities to take away from a wide charcuterie, including smoked and marinated wild salmon, hot smoked salmon, marinated herring, homemade salads, smoked deer, organic cheeses, Danish seaweed caviar and a lot more. Bonavista 29 | Tel. 93 461 7362 | Mon 5-9pm, Tues-Fri 11.30am-3.30pm and 5pm-9pm, Sat 11.30am-3.30pm, Sun closed | www.brittas.es

Delivery FOODIES BARCELONA4POBLENOU Foodies Barcelona is an online restaurant that prepares wholesome and fresh meals, delivering to your office, business or party. Whether you want a healthy lunch for a meeting or daily catering, they’ve got you covered. Order online or contact them for a menu.

Sardenya 48, 08005 Tel. 93 624 3505 Mon-Sat 9am-12am Sun 9am-6pm www.facebook.com/menssanabarcelona

Sant Joan de Malta 131 | Tel. 93 266 4271 Mon-Fri 8am-11am | www.foodiesbarcelona.es

Vegetarian/Vegan TAP DE SURO4 EIXAMPLE Tap de Suro is an intimate place dedicated entirely to the world of wine. Here you can experience delicious Mediterranean meals accompanied with an 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.

Mallorca 202, 08008 Tel. 93 461 4853 info@tapdesuro.com Mon-Sat 12pm-5pm and 7pm-11.30pm Sun closed www.tapdesuro.com

BE MY BAGEL4GRÀCIA 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. Offering an extensive range of bagels and cakes—from the more classic choices such as poppy and multigrain to delicious and innovative chocolate, almond and coconut bagels—you won’t come away disappointed.

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

GOVINDA (VEGETARIAN)4BARRI GÒTIC Founded 25 years ago, Govinda continues to thrive on a blend of experience and fresh innovation with its vegetarian Indian cuisine. The international menu features thalis, a salad bar, natural juices, lassis, pizzas and crêpes. Govinda offers a vegan-friendly, non-alcoholic and authentically-decorated environment with lunch and weekend menus. Plaça Vila de Madrid 4-5 | Metro Catalunya | Tel. 93 318 7729 Tues-Sat 1pm-4pm and 8pm-11.30pm, Sun-Mon 1pm-4pm | www.govinda.es

AMALTEA4EIXAMPLE

A warm and welcoming environment allows you to fully enjoy a tasty and healthier alternative to your everyday meal. Dishes include cereals, pulses and vegetables with homemade puddings. The cuisine is creatively international with care taken to ensure that each meal is well-balanced and made with the freshest ingredients. Their menu of the day costs 10.70, while their night and weekend menus cost 15.50. Diputació 164 | Metro Urgell | Tel. 93 454 8613 Mon-Sat 1pm-4pm and 8pm-11pm, Sun closed | www.restauranteamaltea.com

HAPPY DAY VEGETARIANO4 EIXAMPLE Located in the centre of town, this vegetarian-vegan restaurant, Happy Day Vegetariano, offers a variety of fresh salads, soups and dishes. There is also a large assortment of fresh home-baked cakes to choose from, including carrot, pear, orange and carob. These vegetarian and vegan cakes are produced using brown sugar and organic wholemeal flour. At Happy Day Vegetariano, they believe that if you take care of your health and eat the right food, your well-being and mood will improve. Come to the Happy Day and make the animals, yourself and the world happier! çPau Claris 143 (between Valencia and Aragón) Tel. 93 171 7081 Mon-Sat 1pm-5pm, Sun closed www.happydayvegetariano.com/en

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HEALTH &BEAUTY

Mary D. McCarthy - DOCTOR

Doctor for Adults

DISCOUNT FOR METROPOLITAN READERS

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. She is also a member of IAMAT.

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

www.barcelona-metropolitan.com Doctors Barcelona - DOCTOR Doctors Barcelona is the top medical group in Barcelona. They are committed to providing a first-rate level of care and attention. They are experienced, trained and equipped to diagnose and treat the most acute or chronic medical problems and injuries. Available 24 hours including weekends and holidays. A 30-minute arrival time to your destination is guaranteed. Their visit fee is refundable by most insurance companies. All doctors are specialists and, using their services, the best hospitals are available.

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

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

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

Dr Bassas - DErMATology The Javier Bassas Dermatology Centre is a well-renowned dermatology and surgical centre equipped with the latest technology. The medical team, led by Dr. Javier Bassas Bresca, consists of Surgical Dermatology and Venereology specialists with vast clinical and surgical experience. Their goal is to provide specialised, rigorous, efficient and accessible care in Surgical Dermatology and Venereology, with the highest quality and ethical standards. Diagnosing and treating skin diseases is their priority, as well as offering the latest advances in dermoaesthetics. Consulta Balmes 24 1º1 T. 93 412 6602. Teknon, Marquesa de Vilallonga nº 12. Consulta nº 34 1ª 08017 T. 93 290 6434 www.drbassas.com

Dr. Steven Joseph - DOCTOR An English doctor in Barcelona, Dr Steven Joseph is a member of The Royal College of General Practitioners and The Royal College of Psychiatrists. He offers a wide range of medical care, including family medicine, sexual health, mental health and access to all specialists and tests. Physiotherapy and chiropractic services are also available. googol Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare in a relaxed, friendly and discreet environment. Dr Joseph is happy to take your enquiries directly. Gran Via Carles III 37-39, 08028 M. 662 291 191 www.englishdoctorbarcelona.com

ServiDigest - HEALTH ServiDigest have 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 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 Mon-Fri 9am-2pm and 4pm-9pm Sat 9am-2pm, Sun closed uad@servidigest.com www.servidigest.com

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Dr. J. E Batista - UROLOGIST Dr. Jose E Batista is a specialist in Urology who trained in the UK and the USA. Together with his team (Uroclinica Barcelona), he covers all the fields of Urology, with special interest in prostatic diseases, laser surgery, bed wetting (enuresis) and urinary incontinence. The team has worked at Centro Médico Teknon since 1996 and also offers specialists in pediatric urology, as well as English speaking physiotherapists for pelvic floor disorders. Vilana 12, Office 24, Consult. Marquesa, C M Teknon T. 93 390 6940 Valencia 247, Barcelona Central Office T. 93 390 671 info.urologia@gmail.com www.teknon.es/web/batista

6/22/16 11:48 AM

Orthoestetic - DENTIST

Dra. Susana Campi - DENTIST

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

New premises, new services and new state of the art equipment! For all your dental needs, this team consisting of 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. Josep Tarradellas 97 local, 08029 Metro: Rocafort/Rosselló (L5) Bus: 15,27,32,43,54,59,66,78 T. 93 321 4005 Mon, Weds, Thurs 3.30pm-8.30pm Tues and Fri 9.30am-2pm susanacampi1980@gmail.com www.clinicadentalcampi.com

Platinum Provider

Dr. Boj - DENTIST

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

Sanz Pancko Dental Clinic 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 on all treatments related to these age groups. He studied at the School of Medicine and Dentistry of the University of rochester, Ny, USA. This is a fast and friendly service in an English-speaking, international environment.

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

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

FREE REJUVENATING ROSEHIP MASK

Heaven - MASSAgE

For 15 years Dentisalut has offered the latest in dental care, with up-to-date techniques, materials and technology. Two strategically situated clinics and a team of highly trained dentists directed by Dr. Juan Carlos Torres, an expert in implants and oral surgery. Quality treatments at reasonable price and emergency dental care at weekends. English, French, Catalan and Spanish spoken.

• 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’?

Dentisalut Sants T. 93 315 8557 / M. 619 064 753 Creu Coberta 54 Metro: Hostafrancs (L1) y Plaza España (L3)

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!

Dentisalut Nou Barris Pl. Garrigó 18 Metro: Fabra y Puig (L1) y Virrey Amat (L5) T. 93 408 5197 / M. 647 789 390 Emergencies: 639 868 374

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What is Japanese Facelifting Massage? Japanese Facelifting Massage uses a sequence of massage techniques which act as a natural face lift with no need for surgery, helping make you look and feel younger. This combination of techniques helps improve the complexion, remove toxins from the face, prevent and remove facial wrinkles, reduce and release any muscle tension in the face and jaw. Facelift Massage is to help prolong natural, true health and beauty, and to prevent disease. It makes you feel fantastic. Special discounted packs! M. 659 995 657 nunu@thevitaltouch.es www.tvtbarcelona.com

Dentistsalut - DENTIST

www.dentisalut.com www.facebook.com/Dentisalut/

The Vital Touch - MASSAgE

FREE REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENT WITH ORGANIC PRODUCTS

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

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Symmetry Pilates- PILATES

Tatiane Canário

Premium Pilates - NoT ‘get in, get knackered, get out!’ Unlike other forms of exercise, Pilates is targeted at those parts of the body where either correction – too long huddled over a computer for example – or strength is needed, as well as building up a strong core. People who do Pilates know it’s all about quality not quantity, so the benefit is felt after only a few sessions. So, sign up at this swanky new city-centre studio (yoga & physio also available) and enjoy a complimentary massage. Enric Granados 111 (entlo 2º) T. 93 531 3620 M. 637 693 073 info@symmetry.cat www.symmetry.cat

T. 93 217 3025 info@tatianecanario.com

Bikram Yoga - HoT yogA

READER OFFER

Jessica Boston

Jessica Boston is a certified Cognitive Hypnotherapist based in the centre of Barcelona. Cognitive Hypnotherapy works to redefine your subconscious perspective and guide you towards what you really want, making positive change quickly and permanently to any kind of issue. Why not get in touch for your complimentary consultation to find out how it could change any aspect of your life, because nothing has to be the way it’s always been.

www.yogacongracia.com

Uby Muñoz, Lic.Ac. - ACUPUNCTUrE Trained in England, Uby has experience successfully treating a wide range of health problems including: allergies, arthritis, chronic pain, migraines, headaches, IBS, infertility, IVF, insomnia, back pain, menopause, stress and anxiety. Uby specialises in natural fertility treatments and women’s health.

M. 660 514 795 Metro: Diagonal/Provenca www.jessicaboston.com hello@jessicaboston.com

Casp 80, 1-3, 08010 T. 622 720 499 ubybcnwellwoman.com www.bcnwellwoman.com

NEST - NETWorK oF ENglISH

KINEMEZ - PHySIoTHErAPy CENTrE

SPEAKINg THErAPISTS

KineMez offers personalised physical therapy in gràcia/Sant gervasi. They specialise in postural reeducation using the Mézières method, for the treatment of sciatica, discal herniation, scoliosis, back pain, temporomandibular disorders, patellofemoral pain, womens health and sports injuries.

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. 93 201 6513 Guillem Tell 40 Entlo.2ª kinemez@kinemez.com www.kinemez.com

Jonathan Hooker - PSyCHoTHErAPIST Jonathan specialises in helping people to deal with change. This may be aspects of their life they would like to change or unexpected changes that they are dealing with. An English-speaking psychotherapist, counsellor, coach and guide, he helps people to improve their relationships and make sense of their lives. M. 639 579 646 jonathan.hooker@yahoo.com www.jonathanhooker.com

www.barcelonaNEST.com

FREE CONSULTATION

Hestía - PSyCHoTHErAPy Hestía International Psychotherapy Centre has become a reference in the city, due to its high quality multidisciplinary and multilingual profile. Their professional team works with individuals, couples and families through a variety of services and approaches to therapy and personal development. They speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, german, Portuguese, greek, Polish, Swedish, russian and Catalan. The first consultation is free. Diagonal 343, 2º 3ª Metro: Verdaguer (L5) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es

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Bikram yoga have two centres in Barcelona with over 50 classes a week and options for children. Providing the ideal solution for back pain, stress, weight loss and other problems, they offer international staff and more than 18 years’ experience. reader offer: €25 for 10 days of unlimited yoga. Pau Claris 97, PRAL, 08009, T. 93 302 5130 Caravel•la la Niña 18, 08017, T. 93 205 0281 www.bikramyoga.es

YogaconGracia - yogA An enchanting neighbourhood studio and community space with two locations in the heart of gràcia. Founded in 2004, you will find a friendly, international vibe in the gorgeous loft-style studios. ycg has something for everyone, from Hatha, Sivananda, Kundalini, Jivamukti (a fast-paced vinyasa) to English, pre-natal and Mum and Baby yoga classes.

CogNITIVE HyPNoTHErAPIST & COACH

NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS

- PILATES

Pilates and muscle activation in a beautiful, fully equipped studio in gracia, run by Pilates professionals with more than 15 years of experience. Classes available for individuals and pairs, first class is free. Bring this ad and receive a 10% discount when you sign up for the first 3 months.

First visit: 50% discount

Oliver Dawson - BorN CHrIoPrACTIC oliver Dawson is a chiropractor who focuses on the direct relationship between spinal structures and health. Through specific spinal realignment and structural correction, better neurological connections are established throughout the nervous system. The result is less pain, more vitality and better health. Call today. Sombrerers 27, Principal T. 93 268 3070 M. 622 772 623 oliver@bornquiro.com www.bornquiro.com Pharmacy Serra Mandri - CHEMIST The pharmacy is open 365 days a year and offers a 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 9am-10pm www.farmaciaserra.com

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BUSINESS SERVICES

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.

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

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

Fuente Fradera - LAwyERS Based in Barcelona, Fuente Fradera Lawyers is a rapidly growing law firm which covers areas of law including: real estate, commercial law and labour law. Their services are available for businesses, entrepreneurs and private consultations. As legal advisers, they offer a highly efficient, quality service which generates valuable customer confidence in their work. They speak English, French, German and Russian.

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

Gran Vía Corts Catalanes T. 93 317 5219 joseramon@fuentefradera.com www.fuentefradera.com

La Luna Shipping -

Geo Mac - COMPUTERS

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

Barcelona Women’s Network - BUSINESS

Supported charities 2014 - 2016

• 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.

membership@bcnwomensnetwork.com

president@bcnwomensnetwork.com www.bcnwomensnetwork.com

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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.

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

BarCeLoNa oFFiCe SERVICED OFFICE SPACE Barcelona Office is a street-level premises by the Gothic Cathedral. In contrast to many coworking spaces, they focus on long-term professionals and companies who need a disturbance-free space with their own desk and storage facilities, along with their own key for 24 hour, seven days a week access. The space is open-plan and fully furnished. They provide: desk, chair, under-desk cabinet, shelving, fiber optic wireless internet connection, laser printers, photocopy, scanner, shared meeting area with sofa and 40 inch television for presentations. M. 677 738 860 info@barcelonaoffice.com www.barcelonaoffice.com

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FREN

Mrs.Q design studio

8 GRAPHIC DESIGN INVITATION DESIGN BRANDING | ADVERTSING POSTERS | FLYERS | MENUS

Mrs.Q design studio -

Ibex have been in operation since 2000 and have grown to be one of the largest insurance providers for the expatriate community in Spain, Portugal and Gibraltar, they can insure your car, motorbike, home, pet, health, holiday home, boat, travel, business and provide funeral plans and more.

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.

T. 90 010 2527 www.ibexinsure.com

Natacha elmir - PHOTOGRAPHER Professional photographer based in Barcelona offering a range of shoots—vacation, weddings, portraits, babies and events. Natacha also offers a four-hour introductory course to photography, which includes a mini shoot and four artistic shots of you and your loved ones.

M. 699 260 938 mrsqdesignstudio@gmail.com Instagram #mrsqdesignstudio

M. 600 803 661 natachaelmir@gmail.com www.natachaelmir.com

Garment Printing - BUSINESS

Home orden

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.

Frustrated with the mess in your home? Have no time? Don’t know where to start? Moving soon? Just moved in? My goal is to help you get your place in order and implement strategies to stay organised. we can work side by side or I can work alone, for a one off project or over a longer period according to your needs.

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

FIRST CONSULATAION FREE

M. 625 204 328 stephanie@homeorden.com

Step Up With V - PERSONAL BRANDING A combined coaching and consulting service for professionals and entrepreneurs who need to define and communicate their brand identity and purpose. Connect with your audience, find your market position and increase your visibility and business opportunities! CALL FOR A FREE CONSULATAION

M. 600 803 661 natachaelmir@gmail.com wwww.natachaelmir.com

Fábrica de Flyers - BUSINESS

La Web Del Born - WEB DESIGN STUDIO

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!

Complete internet services for companies and individuals. Put your business online with a wonderful website and professional emails. They build your social profiles, optimise your web pages for Google and make professional blogs to be managed directly by you.

Pujades 74-80, 3º 7ª, 08005 T. 93 485 6422 info@fabricadeflyers.com www.fabricadeflyers.com

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ibex - INSURANCE SERVICES

GRAPHIC DESIGN

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULATAION

637 005 656 hola@lawebdelborn.com www.lawebdelborn.com

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

Mac in Barcelona -

CIBERVIRREINA - COMPUTER SERVICE

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. MOB / Bailen 11, Bajos, 08010 M. 608 994 599 info@macinbarcelona.com www.macinbarcelona.com

Open until 11pm every day of the week, they can repair your computer in 24/48 hours using well-tested procedures. Repairing software and hardware failures, saving your personal files and returning your computer fully operative. In addition to having internet access they do printing, copying and binding jobs. D'Astúries 78 (Plaça de la Virreina, Gràcia). Metro L3 (Fontana) or L4 (Joanic) T. 93 368 5770 serviciocliente@cibervirreina.com

BritSat - SATELLITE TV Missing out on British TV? Not to worry. with our latest equipment, extensive experience and fantastic after-sales service, we provide all UK and European TV via satellite and Internet installations. So don’t miss out on all the summer sporting action, including wimbledon, Euro ‘16 and the Rio Olympics. Phone or email Britsat for a competitive quote and expert advice. M. 649 605 917 info@britsatlive.com www.britsatlive.com

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La Dolce Vita -

Coccinelle - HOME SERVICES

ITALIAN FASHION

Do you need a nanny, housekeeper or chauffeur? Coccinelle specialises in providing highly-skilled, experienced domestic staff in Barcelona and the surrounding areas. Due to their expertise and rigorous selection methods, they are able to provide seasoned professionals for both permanent or temporary positions to suit your needs. you can arrange everything now from the comfort of your own home! Call them today and quote Metropolitan free consultation.

This new shop located in Born has exclusive Italian fashion (items of design, comfort, elegance and quality, made in Italy). They can offer advice on how to dress according to your figure and the occasion, highlighting your strengths to help you choose the most suitable clothes.

Ronda de Sant Pere 54 T. 93 518 4773 Metro: Urquinaona (L1 & L4) Arc de Triomf (L1) Facebook ladolcevitamodahombre Open Mon-Sat 10am-8pm

T. 93 125 8626 info@coccinelle.es www.coccinelle.es

Nie Barcelona

Corsa international

- BUSINESS

- DRIVING SCHOOL NIE Barcelona is a service that helps foreigners resolve all the paperwork needed for living and working in Barcelona. Their main focus is on helping to secure the NIE for EU and NON-EU citizens in a fast and efficient way. They can also help with other administrative procedures, such as social security numbers, empadronamiento, autónomo set up, and change of driving license or car registration.

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 about Spanish road systems. They have both manual and automatic practice vehicles. Call now and ask about special Metropolitan reader offers!

Beethoven 16, Bajos, 08021 T. 93 200 3324

M. 603 209 403 info@niebarcelona.com www.niebarcelona.com

international@autoescuelacorsa.com

www.autoescuelacorsa.com www.facebook.com/CorsaInternational/

act Habitat - ARCHITECTS we can help… Create your perfect living or work space Get the most out of your investment Acheive a healthy and sustainable environment Deal with paperwork and permits Manage the building works and costs Choose the best firm for the job Coordinate with the neighbours Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you! Avinyó 6, 1º 2ª, 08002 T. 93 318 7121 info@act-habitat.com www.act-habitat.com

Handyman - HOME SERVICES Mark offers honest, transparent, efficient, English/Spanish/Swedish speaking handyman services. He can help you hang a mirror, paint a room, install reverse osmosis, hang blinds or curtains, do home repairs, assemble Ikea furniture and he can even fix up your place so you can get your “fianza” back from your landlord. Hourly rates. Real time updates.

M. 645 691 475 mark@handymanbarcelona.com www.handymanbarcelona.com Facebook handymanbarcelona74

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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 programmes, 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

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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

COACHING COLUMN SAM SAYS... DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY Dear Sam, I’ve been trying to find a new job for nearly a year, as I’m fairly miserable in my current role. It has been slim pickings, and even though I know things take time, I’m now worried that with summer coming, my search will be put on hold until September. While I’m stuck at this job, I was wondering if you have any advice in terms of how to be happier. Not only at work, but in general—I feel like I’m walking around deflated and unexcited about pretty much everything. I’ve broken down the areas into a few key questions. Thanks so much, Searching For Happiness Hi Searching For Happiness, I recently watched a great documentary called Happy, which includes interviews with people from around the world to find out what truly puts a smile on their face. What I found interesting was that apparently 40 percent of what makes us happy are the things we choose to do. The activities we participate in, the trips we take and the courses we undertake. Money, job, house, status etc. only comprise 10 percent of the pie, whilst the remaining 50 percent is based on how we’re naturally predisposed. This is a tough question. I applaud you for taking it on and I’ll attempt to do it justice in just a few words. To give you the best and most practical responses, I’ve teamed up with Jennifer Riggins, a Barcelona-based digital media expert and content writer at the Happy Melly Business Network (www.happymelly.com), an organisation that strives to help people become happier. What can I do to be happier at work? Jennifer: Spend a week jotting down what you love, like and loathe doing. At the end of the week, look for patterns and find ways to do more of what you love. Chances are that’s what you’ll be better at anyway. We surveyed the Happy Melly community about what made them tick at work and here are some of their answers: • Seeing that my work is useful to someone • Autonomy and flexibility, being able to work according to my energy levels regardless of the time of day and having agency over my workflow • Receiving a ‘thank you’ because I was able to help somebody out What can I do to be happier in my personal life? Sam: There are two things I’d recommend. The first thing is to define your values and then ask yourself if you’re living by them. When what’s important to us doesn’t align with our actions across the different areas of our lives, we become out of sync and can experience fatigue, sickness and a general feeling of malaise. The second thing you can do is to give. No matter how down or frustrated you feel, nothing pulls us out of it better than coming from a place of serving, rather than expecting. There’s a fabulous book, The Go Giver (2007), that explores the idea that giving ultimately leads to success and happiness. What can I do to ‘bounce back’ quicker when something gets me down? Jennifer: That’s hard for everyone, but there are quick tricks to perk you up. Body language can be influential. Simply biting on a pencil triggers the muscles that make you smile, which has psychosomatic effects, for example. To help prevent you from hitting those lows, try keeping a gratitude journal, where you list five things you are thankful for every day. When feeling down, refer to the book and focus on those things. And as your quest continues, I’ll leave you with this quote from Oscar Wilde: “Some cause happiness wherever they go, others whenever they go.”

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. For more coaching tips, tune into her podcast (blueprintcoaching.podomatic.com), or to ask Sam a question, email sam@blueprintcoaching.ca or editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com.

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INTERVIEW

Sarah Bayaidah

Photo by Cecil Mahumane

ARTIST & FOUNDER OF CYCLE YOUR HEART OUT, ENGLAND, 32 BY RACHEL HUFFMAN

unique sort of celebration. My family joined me, along with some friends and people from the area, and I used the event to raise money for a charity called Re~Cycle, which sends bikes to Africa. It was a really incredible day. I’ve now done 18 heart routes in seven different European countries. To make a new heart route, I follow a five-step process. First, you listen to what your heart is telling you to do. This leads to step two: picking your location. Step three is to map out your heart route. To do this, I collect maps of the area and locate places I want to see. I also speak with locals or anyone else I know living locally and ask them to highlight the best bicycle paths. I piece these details together to form a heart-shaped route. The shape doesn’t have to be perfect; after all, life and love are never perfect. Step four is to cycle your heart out—alone or with family or new friends—and step five is to spread the love. Sharing routes with people you care about can start a ripple effect that naturally inspires people around the world to cycle. All my heart routes were created for a special reason, whether to overcome fear in Portugal or embrace change in Formentera. I did the route in Frankfurt, Germany with my brother and his wife to celebrate their engagement, and I dedicated my heart route in Toulouse to my sister, who had just completed a four-month, 3,007-kilometre trek across New Zealand.

And all of them have varied in distance, from five kilometres to 23, depending on what my passions were at the time. I moved to Barcelona in 2013 because I had to live by the sea. The number of bike lanes and growing cycling culture were a plus, as well. I’ve cycled this heart route many times. It’s become one of my favourites because people who come to visit me enjoy doing it, and it goes past the areas of the city that I love most. The route includes Sagrada Família, Parc de la Ciutadella, Poblenou and, most importantly, the sea. It’s a very chilled route, like Barcelona itself. I’ve painted ever since I was a little girl, and now I make it a point to sketch the landmarks along my heart routes. On July 2nd, Cycle Your Heart Out will be five years old, so I’m going to make my prints available for purchase to celebrate the occasion. This way people can take a piece of my heart routes home with them. A percentage of the sales will go to charity. For my next heart route, I want to go back to the place that originally triggered my interest in cycling—Australia. My sister is living there now, and I haven’t seen her for nearly three years, which has been tough. I want to surprise her one day by turning up in Canberra, then I’ll let my intuition guide me to the spot of my first Australian route. www.cycleyourheartout.com

By Ben Rowdon

SCOOP

I studied psychology at university in England, but after I graduated, I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do with my life. I was 24 and decided to go travelling with my sister to try and find my way. It was while we were in Australia that I discovered a huge passion for cycling, and I knew I wanted to motivate other people to cycle as well. I love the freedom I feel when I’m cycling. Personally, I prefer cycling alone or with a few close friends because I ride to clear my mind. It helps me practise mindfulness, so that when I’m atop my two wheels, I’m completely in touch with what’s around me. Plus, cycling is great exercise. It was in 2011, at a yoga retreat on Fuerteventura, that the idea came to me. I created ‘Cycle Your Heart Out’, the world’s first heart-shaped cycling and wellbeing initiative, then and there, and I plan on spending the rest of my life travelling around the world, creating heart-shaped bicycle routes in different cities, and inspiring other people to follow their hearts and do the same. There’s an anonymous quote that I put my own twist on, that goes, ‘Your wheels are your paint and the world is your canvas’. I think it’s a beautiful depiction of what Cycle Your Heart Out is about. My first heart route was in my hometown of Milton Keynes. I cycled it for the first time in July 2011 on the day before my birthday, as a

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