September 2011 Nยบ 176 Free
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THE SANCHEZ MOLINA LAWYERS’ GROUP is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of specialist lawyers covering every aspect of the law.
Trajectory of Sanchez Molina Practice Sanchez Molina lawyers was founded over 25 years ago by José Antonio Sanchez Molina, and thanks to his vision and commitment, has grown into the flourishing multi-disciplinary practice that it is today. Sanchez Molina‘s team comprises nearly 50 people, 21 of whom are specialist lawyers, each one an expert in a particular branch of the law.
The company continued to expand, finally moving in 1998 to its present location in the South Tower of the Trade Building, where José Antonio continues to personally supervise the handling of each client’s affairs, promoting a vision of not only growth in size, but also constantly striving to grow in the quality and efficiency of the services Sanchez Molina offers to its clients.
Edificio Trade Gran Via Carles III, 84 - 5º 08028 Barcelona Tel. (+34) 93 490 9669 Fax. (+34) 93 491 4625 Email. javiergarcia@sanchezmolina.com
www.sanchezmolina.com
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Contents
September
2011
14. APARTMENT BUSINESSES 18. NOISY NEIGHBOURS
Features 14 18 22
Apartment work spaces Noisy neighbours Helping the elderly
Regulars 06 07 08 11 13 26 29 36 58
On our web An inside look The month Columns Interview: Tim Parfitt M5: September 11th On Gastronomy Back page
DIRECTORIES 40 44 53
Food & Drink Business
34. BELLE ÉPOQUE
From the Senior Editor: With summer, such as it was, on the wane, this month we’re staying indoors. More specifically, we feature three articles all focused in some way on Barcelona apartments. Olga Prodan talks to some entrepreneurial types who’ve taken a flat (or house, in one case) and turned it into a thriving business premises. In contrast, Amanda August examines one of the downsides for those living in apartments here—having noisy neighbours. She tells us about three people’s experiences of what can be a frustrating and daily annoyance, and suggests ways to deal with the problem. Finally, on a more uplifting note, Joan Corrigan explains her volunteer work with Amics de la Gent Gran, visiting the elderly in their homes to bring them a break from loneliness and exclusion. Of course, the weather should still be fine enough this month for getting out and about (except for the week of the Mercè, clearly), so check out our ON section where you’ll find not only details of the festivities for Barcelona’s patron saintess, but also our other cultural picks for September, including a tattoo exhibition, 12 hours of magic and a celebration of Brazilian culture. Hannah Pennell
Jobs
Publisher Creative Media Group, S.L. Managing Director Esther Jones Senior Editor Hannah Pennell Editor Katy MacGregor Art Director Aisling Callinan Sales Director Rainer Hobrack Account Executives Richard Cardwell and Thomas McKeown Financial Manager Andrea Moreno Sales Assistant Goran Dimitrovski Editorial Assistants Suzie Boswell and Lauren Reed Design Assistants Jamilya Dosmailova, Isolda Piza Contributors Amanda August, Jonathan Bennett, Lucy Brzoska, Vera Ciria, Joan Corrigan, Roger de Flower, Meredith Gales, Olga Prodan, Tara Stevens and Nicola Thornton Photographers Lucy Brzoska, Richard Owens and Lee Woolcock Cover photo Ben Evans Illustrator Ben Rowdon Editorial Office: Enric Granados 48, entlo. 2ª, 08008 Barcelona. Tel. 93 451 4486, Fax. 93 451 6537; editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Sales: sales@barcelona-metropolitan.com. General enquiries: info@barcelona-metropolitan.com. www.barcelona-metropolitan.com Printer: Litografia Rosés. Depósito Legal: B35159-96 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.
Find your nearest distribution point on www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
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R E N TA L S
Two-storey 210m2 apartment - Pedralbes
Contemporary 140m2 apartment - Eixample
Two-storey house, living/dining room, open-plan kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, 43m2 terrace. Furnished. Price: €1.850 Ref. L0153ba
Fourth floor apartment, living/dining room, terrace, eat-in kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, study. Unfurnished. Price: €3.100 Ref. L0151ba
Modern renovated apartment, living/dining room with fireplace, terrace, kitchen, 3 bedrooms and bathroom. Furnished. Price: €2.100 Ref. 919
100m2 loft style apartment - El Born
Fantastic luxury 200m2 Attic - Diagonal Mar
Recently renovated 70m2 apartment - Eixample
Open-plan living/dining room, equipped kitchen, large en suite bedroom, original features maintained. Furnished. Price: €1.700 Ref. L0150ba
25th floor, 100m2 terrace, pool, living-dining room, three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Furnished Price: €10.000 Ref. L0155ba
Large living-dining room with gallery area, open-plan kitchen, double bedroom, bathroom. Furnished. Price: €1.200 Ref. L0125ba
Prestige Real Estate SL
Beautiful 130m2 house - Gràcia
FOR SALE
Brand new flats in Passeig de Gracia
Brand new flats in Sarria
Brand new flats in Port Vell
Exclusive newly renovated flats located right on Passeig de Gràcia. 19th-century building fully refurbished. From 2 and 3 bedrooms. From €728.000 Ref. 1120ba
12 brand new flats located in the heart of Sarrià. From 1 to 3 bedrooms. Community roof-top sun deck. From €380.000 Ref. 1105ba
Flats between 65m2 and 90m2 with sea views from one to three bedrooms. Parking. Prices start from €300.000 and go up to €600.000 Ref. 1158ba
Please call for further ProPerties 93 241 30 82
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06 INTERNET
on our web... Interview:
Annie Michie
Photos by Isidre Mateo and Siegried Ceballos
Annie Michie is a Barcelona-based British artist. In 2004, she was awarded the FAD Gold Medal for Art and she regularly exhibits her work around Europe. Investigating the links between craft and fine art, her current exhibition, ‘Layers of Looking, through Curtains’ considers cloth, how we decorate, disguise and use it in celebrations. Visit our website to read more about Annie and her work. www.barcelona-metropolitan. com/anniemichie
Where to shop It would seem Spain is still very much in the grip of a financial crisis and the best advice we can give you is to go out and spend. For the good of the country, you have to splash the cash. And it’s not just us; actual economists say shopping is a must, so what are you waiting for? With the sales done and all that left-over tat now gone, the new autumn ranges are hanging enticingly on the racks, making the task even easier. To find out where you
can single-handedly relieve Spain of its financial woes, see our shopping directory. www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/shopping
www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
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COVER 07
An inside look Photographer Ben Evans I’m 25, was born in Hertfordshire and grew up in Surrey. I studied literature and philosophy at Lancaster University. Last year, I was a market research executive in London. I lived by Tower Bridge and walked to work by the Thames each morning. But something was missing, and 10 months ago, I quit and moved to Catalunya to photograph and teach photography full-time, which I now do with Barcelona Photography Courses. I’m also passionate about writing and, as well as a book on photography, I write a couple of blogs. I have continued my love of poetry by narrating a podcast, Poems in English. This has even led to voiceover work through the internet, something I hadn’t anticipated! I think following my dreams and moving to Barcelona has made it all possible. Barcelona is... the best city in the whole of Europe, bar Venice, for photography; and Venice is sinking! I never miss... an opportunity to enjoy a drink with friends on the steps of the MNAC as the sun sets. I always avoid... Las Ramblas when an enormous cruise ship has just arrived! A view: It’s my business to know the best views in Barcelona so I can show my clients, and my personal favourite must be from the top of Tibidabo. It’s a great viewpoint over the city, and an interesting area to explore. A building: I love the church in Plaça de Sant Felip Neri near Plaça Catalunya. The Baroque architecture still bear the scars of the 1938 bombing, and is a real reminder of the impact that the Civil War had on the city. Now, it overlooks a beautifully relaxing square. An inspiration: I’ve found that my photography has been inspired by the city itself, and the more I discover about the culture, either with the great local friends I’ve made or by witnessing the splashes of colour and noise that often fill the streets, the richer my interpretations of Barcelona become. A place to go with friends: It’s a well-known one, but I love the Oveja Negre for a drink in the evening. It’s got a good mix of locals, expats and tourists, and there’s plenty of space. We have a pinball tournament ongoing; the matches have a good vibe with the medieval atmosphere. The cover: A huge storm flooded the Ramblas with rain, and suddenly the busy street was empty apart from two people sheltering under umbrellas.
www.englishphotographer.com
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08 THE MONTH
Andrew Trotter is a man who likes nice things and would like us to have nice things too. So to that end he’s inaugurated openhouse, a place where you can get your hands on fashion from Alexandra Groover, chunky necklaces by Jaclyn Mayer, things for the kitchen by Dutch company Dtile, plants, art and photography, all under one aesthetically-pleasing roof. They’ll also be putting on a different exhibition every six
September weeks.
Notariat 6. www.openhousebcn.com
FASHION
In this feature, fashion writer Vera Ciria talks us through what’s on her Barcelona style radar.
Searching for perfect vintage pieces in Barcelona is a little like searching for the Holy Grail: if you even believe in its existence (which many don’t), it’s difficult to pinpoint its exact location. While in recent times, there has been a quietly thriving vintage trend in Barcelona—with stores popping up around the city, supplying clothes that are special and unique, garments that whisper secrets to us from decades past—it is far from hitting the mainstream. For some this is a relief, but for others it means that it’s difficult to get their hands on quality items. The ubiquitous vintage market, present in many other European cities, has made practically no headway here in the Catalan capital. The Encants flea market used to be a prime location for picking up cheap, quality items, but has slowly fallen into decay in the past 10 years.
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Vintage events, however, seem to be steadily growing in popularity. For one day only and usually located in a hotel lobby, a small gathering of vintage enthusiasts and store owners will stuff their rails with their best vintage garments, hoping to tempt onlookers into snapping up one-of-a-kind pieces. Although relatively new, Vintage Sundays at Café Milans appears to be the only weekly event that is managing to survive on a consistent basis. Keeping up-to-date with these events can sometimes be a bit of a headache but Mercadillos and Markets (mercadillosandmarkets. blogspot.com) manages to centralise much of the information about different events. The best vintage options are still to be found in the specialised shops dotted around the city. Three of the best are Paris Vintage located in the Eixample, Magnolia Antic near Passeig de Gràcia and Heritage in the Gothic quarter. All have one thing in common: their exquisite garments come with hefty price tags. But don’t be deterred; there are some other excellent vintage stores along Riera Baixa in Raval, such as Galalith, Lullaby and Lailo, and on Saturdays, the entire street becomes a vintage market. Blow by Le Swing, Le Swing and Le Clinique are not to be missed in Born, while the Gothic and Gràcia neighbourhoods also offer some very special stores. It may seem like we’re actually spoilt for choice but there’s still a long way to go to reach the popularity that vintage enjoys outside Spain. Café Milans: Milans 7, Paris Vintage: Rosselló 237, ent. 1, Magnolia Antic: Provença 290, Heritage: Banys Nous 14. For details of more vintage shops, check the online version of this column at: barcelonametropolitan.com/fashion
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THE MONTH 09
Photo courtesy of www.mammaproof.org
Play time Not sure where to take your brood when they’re restless and you’re in need of a cup of coffee? Well you could head to La Ludoteka in Gràcia. Adapting the German concept of Familiencafe and bringing it to Barcelona, the people behind La Ludoteka have created a space not only where adults and children can enjoy time together playing, but that is also a cafe, a second-hand clothes shop and a meeting place for workshops. With plenty of toys and beautiful murals on the walls, this place is already proving very popular with the mums and dads of the barrio. La Ludoteka. Plaça de les Dones 36. info@laludoteka.com
New drinks spot If you’re looking for an unpretentious spot to get a drink or a bite to eat then Candela, a new venue in the Raval, is an idea. With a kitchen that doesn’t close, serving simple, home-cooked food with Andalucian notes, and free WiFi, this is a place you can plot up and spend an afternoon. Plaça Salvador Seguí 13. www.candelaraval.com
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COLUMNS 11
Wild Barcelona Text and photos by Lucy Brzoska
Diary of an adoption By Meredith Gales Last year, Meredith Gales successfully adopted a girl from a West African country, a process that she wrote about for our website. Here she explains what life has been like for her new family.
Sense of belonging
M
Southern smooth snake
Cream-spot tiger moth
Crossing paths in Collserola
D
ense with broom, brambles and lianas, off-piste Collserola can be thorny and impenetrable. The inaccessible gullies and long overgrown terraces explain why so much wildlife survives in this unique metropolitan natural park, which receives two million visitors a year. But all manner of wild encounters can be experienced without straying off the paths. Sometimes the sightings are brief: thick coils of the magnificent Montpellier snake, tempted out for a sunbathe, are already rapidly withdrawing from view as you round the corner. But a tiny juvenile southern smooth snake, desperately trying to reach cover, can be snatched up for closer examination. The scuttle of wall lizards is a constant as you walk and occasionally you come across a slow worm with its beautiful bronze sheen. Legless, it swims through the dust to safety, its rippling movement convincing many they’re in the presence of a snake. As with any lizard, handling is not advisable, since you can be left just holding the tail. Exposed in the open, many creatures are startlingly visible. Exotic-looking caterpillars, inching slowly along, have to be helped on their way, out of reach of passing wheels. A monochrome cream-spot tiger moth, which conceals flaming orange hindwings, lay starkly on the ground and when approached, flew onto the oncoming boot. On twilight walks, a torch is useful. A nightjar fledgling, crouched still on the track, was spotted by the reflective gleam in its eyes. The parents circled, two anxious shadows, until their offspring flew silently away. The light also revealed a fox, on the move in the summer dusk, who paused at the crossroads and turned to stare coolly at the passers-by. And at any time of year, day or night, a boar might break cover and thunder across the track, snorting as it goes. You’re left watching the dust as it settles, trying to recover interrupted thoughts.
Lucy Brzoska runs nature tours and writes for www.iberianature.com
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y daughter is washing the dishes. This may sound a like a pretty regular occurrence in most households but it’s the first time she has done it in a year of us living together. And she’s washing like a pro, proper rinsing and all. I ask her if this is how she washed dishes in her orphanage (minus the running water, obviously) and she proudly answers that yes, adding that she was a much better washer-upper than the others. I am not exactly sure what has brought on this flurry of mum-pleasing activity. I think it might be a combination of a few events in the past days. The first is the fact that we had a brief reunion with some of the older kids from her orphanage, who, together with the director, were passing through Barcelona on their way to speak at a conference in Italy and perhaps touching base with them has triggered memory of her previous habits. The second is that she has been feeling less than her super-confident and secure self since the school holidays started. The colour of her skin has never been an issue at her local concertada, at least that I am aware of, and our local parks often resemble a Benetton ad. But since school break started, we have been travelling out of our comfort zone. The other day she came to me crying because a little girl had apparently told her to leave the playground and yesterday a little boy called her ‘fea’ in the pool— apparently within full earshot of his father. It’s true that kids can be cruel, but it’s hard not to perceive these comments as race-based. At least for me. For her, she simply doesn’t understand why some kids don’t like her—in contrast to her own culture where mutual respect is far more widespread. I’m aware that her ‘difference’ weighs heavily. In the street, older people are constantly touching her braided hair (much to her annoyance) and kids often just stop and stare. I remember how during the first months I spent volunteering at her orphanage in Africa, I relished in my ‘exotic-ness’, but after a while, the staring, the comments (however innocent they may have been) and being the only white face in a sea of black became totally overbearing. All I wanted to do was run back home to where I ‘belonged’. My daughter doesn’t have that option, at least until she is much older. For now, she is trying her best to fit in and adapt to a completely different lifestyle, culture and society. There has been so much change in her short life, a lot of it extremely adverse and most of which I will probably never know the details of. She beams as she shows me a gleaming rack full of dishes and I think she is certainly the bravest person I know.
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INTERVIEW 13 Tim arrived in Madrid in 1988, to help launch Spanish Vogue, without speaking a word of Castilian. His book A Load of Bull, published in 2006, is a hilarious and painfully honest account of that period. As Director General of Prisma Publicaciones, in Barcelona, he is responsible for a range of Spanish magazine titles, including Lonely Planet, Psychologies and Playboy. I got into magazines by mistake. I was driving to enrol in an NCTJ journalist course at Harlow, but had a car accident and never arrived. Spent a few weeks on crutches and missed the course. So I thought I would try magazines instead of newspapers. As soon as I could walk unaided again, I walked into Vogue House in London and asked for a job. I got one. I was 18. Mucho Toro, the Spanish version of my book, got some great reviews. La Vanguardia called it “desternillante, brillante, conmovedor, hilarante y veraz”, whatever all that means, but it sounded good. Personally I think the title, Mucho Toro, was a disaster. It doesn’t mean ‘a load of bull’, but then I’m used to being misunderstood over here! It’s sad enough searching for your own book in a bookshop, but even sadder to find it in the bullfighting section! I love both Madrid and Barcelona as I think most guiris do. We don’t have that regional ‘prejudice’. Madrid was a great place to be a bachelor but I wouldn’t necessarily think it would be the best place to raise a family, unless you could also get out of the city regularly. Barcelona—and Catalunya—has everything for kids. And bachelors, I guess. I don’t think Spanish culture and customs have changed much since 1988 when I arrived, but I think a huge change has come about in sport. It must have a lot to do with Barcelona having hosted the Olympics, and with Madrid also being keen to land 2020 now, having lost out twice before. I am very impressed with all the sporting facilities in Catalunya. The real stars of Spain’s national football team are mainly
Catalans. Success is everywhere, in basketball, golf, cycling, tennis… even Andy Murray was coached in Barcelona. Even I feel fitter than when I lived in the UK. I have written a film called The Barcelona Connection. It is an Englishlanguage romantic comedy set in Barcelona. We are still searching for a director, so if there are any comedy film directors reading this, please get in touch! I wrote the script and it has been several years in development. In the meantime, I have almost completed writing the novel, entitled The Adventures of an Art Detective: The Barcelona Connection. I am hoping it will be the first of a trilogy. I have embarrassing moments when I am not even physically present. When we moved here to Barcelona, my son had to stand up in class and tell the teacher and classmates what his dad did. “He publishes Playboy,” he said. “You know… he looks at pictures of naked women all day.” I always wondered why I got so many strange looks at parents’ evenings. The thing I miss most about the UK is belly laughs, although I think the Catalans have a great sense of humour, too. I suppose they have to. My worst habit is impatience. And believing I can one day win an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The longer that takes me, the more impatient I will get. I don’t have a favourite bar; I like them all. I also like hotel rooftop terraces, especially if they can mix a good mojito. I have happy memories of La Venta, a restaurant on the way up to Tibidabo. Great views. In my spare time, I read. I write. I laugh. I run. I go to the gym. I play bad tennis. I enjoy good wine. Not necessarily in that order. Interview by Nicola Thornton.
Tim Parfitt
Director General of Prisma Publicaciones (Grupo Planeta) and author of A Load of Bull, UK, 51
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14 APARTMENT BUSINESSES
What’s in an apartment? Barcelona flats and houses are becoming florists, hairdressers and gyms. By Olga Prodan. Photos by Lee Woolcock.
B
arcelona apartments and houses can be so much more than spaces simply for living in and hosting guests. With people increasingly looking to get away from mass-production industry, as well as searching for unique spaces in which to work, businesses run from these ostensibly residential premises are on the rise.
L’Adresse Còrsega 204 is the address in question. It is here, on the first (or principal), floor that one arrives at the luxurious hair salon of Damien Ducorney. Originally from France, Damien lived and worked in New York for nearly a decade before returning to Europe. He harboured the idea of opening his own salon for years, keeping his eyes open for the kind of apartment that would serve as the basis for his idea. It came rather unexpectedly, when he followed up an ad he saw on a bulletin board in his gym. “The first time I saw this place, I knew this was it. I didn’t even look at any more.” It took Damien about three months to totally remodel the apartment. He has considered each tiny detail for his salon, from the door handles to the chairs. And it shows. The rich brown and bronze theme creates a warm and relaxed atmosphere, that is completed with fresh flower arrangements done by Damien himself, and soft background music. While L’Adresse is an exclusive place with some high-profile clients among its regulars, it’s open to anyone and a haircut here will cost you around €40. The Personal Trainer Daniel Benites no longer goes to the gym—instead he’s brought it into his apartment, creating an alternative space for getting in shape. When you do your floor exercises here, there are no lights glaring in your face; rather you are surrounded by the beauty of a 19th-century Eixample apartment. The ceiling has a beautiful plaster border running along its perimeter, the sun shines into the room through the balcony doors and the space is steeped in
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the ambience of a centuries-old home that overlooks Ronda Sant Antoni. Daniel had already been living in the apartment for a while when he got the idea to turn part of it into a gym. “I was sharing this apartment, and when my housemates moved out, I decided I wouldn’t look for anyone else, and instead use the space for a business. The house is conveniently divided into two parts—I live in one part with my girlfriend, the other part I use for my gym. It works perfectly.” Although trained as a football player, Daniel had to halt his professional career following a knee injury. Instead he became a personal trainer and, as a result of his injury, he began to learn about physiotherapy as well. His sessions, which cost €45 a session, last an hour and a quarter with the last 15 minutes being devoted to extensive stretching. His main goal is to help his clients be healthy. “Gyms are so impersonal, boring and, in a sense, artificial. Here I really have a chance to interact with my clients. It’s a more natural and relaxed atmosphere.” 5º 1ª Juan Calet has been in the haircutting business for decades, however, it’s been only a few years that he’s been working from an apartment. He rented a penthouse on Ronda Universitat and turned it into a hair salon called 5º 1ª. The dark-green soundproofed walls, the custom-made tables and mirrors, and the terrace catch one’s eye straight away, but even so the salon might not be much out of the ordinary, if it wasn’t for the music. With his €3,000-sound system, Juan plays an eclectic mix, from ambient to rock. The quality of the sound is such that even when turned to a high volume you can still talk in a normal voice and hear the other person without straining. At the end of the day, 5º 1ª runs what they call ‘The Moment’, a time when a special song is played at full volume and, says Juan, the sound becomes so dense you can almost touch it. “It isn’t customary to put the emphasis on the music in salons, but for me this is the way of making my place more personal. Making a visit to a salon relaxing and fun at the same time; like visiting a friend, having a drink and listening to music—all while you enjoy your hair cut. When people step
>>
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APARTMENT BUSINESSES 15
top left: Damien Ducorney at work at L’Adresse; top right: Daniel Benites in his apartment gym; above: Juan Calet in his penthouse salon
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16 APARTMENT BUSINESSES
left: Ana Lombard in her clinic; right: Flora Muserachs i Vidal at her Sarrià florist shop
into this space they are meant to step into an experience,” said Juan. 5º 1ª also has a bar, an outside terrace and a massage room, in case one needs an excuse to stay longer, and indeed it can be hard to leave the place once your hair is done. The space is invitingly unpretentious and relaxing to be in. Indeed, there is nowhere Juan likes to be better than in his penthouse salon, and this makes his clients (who are are from all backgrounds and of all ages: the youngest is six months old and the oldest, 92) return not only for a haircut, which costs from €40, but also to chill out on the terrace or enjoy the parties he regularly hosts there. Enlace Clinic Many of the patients at Ana Lombard’s Enlace Clinic have previously tried traditional medicine, without success. “I network with a lot of doctors from traditional clinics, so sometimes they send me their difficult cases. When they see how much progress we’ve made, the doctors themselves make appointments here,” said Ana. Ana has the ability to perceive and heal people’s physical and psychological problems through physical touch. She says she inherited the gift from her French grandmother, who was a healer in her home village. As she had always had this ability, she didn’t think of doing it for a living and started a career in property. However, her husband Rafael saw her gift as something extraordinary and encouraged Ana to pursue it as a vocation. After completing studies in sophrology in France, Ana moved to Barcelona, where she has opened a small studio clinic, which she named Enlace (which means ‘link’ in Castilian) and where she offers her services in both French and Castilian. Located at the crossing of Muntaner and Diagonal, the clinic is housed in a beautiful Eixample apartment. “I used to rent part of a clinic, but the atmosphere there was very dry and office-like. I needed a space with a soul,” Ana explained. It took a lot of work to remodel it, soundproof the interior and build walls to create extra rooms. “It was particularly hard, because we had to preserve the delicate work of plaster and decorative wall designs in the apartment.” As well as Ana’s treatments, massage, acupuncture and speech therapy, amongst others, are available; the average cost of a one-hour session is around €80.
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Flora Muserachs i Vidal Flora has come a long way to have her (appropriately) florist shop on a quiet street in Sarrià. She was the first woman in Spain to be admitted to study landscape design, in 1971, inspired by her desire to work with nature, rather than follow one of the traditional female roles of teacher, nurse or secretary, none of which appealed to Flora. She eyed the shop premises for many years, from the house she still lives in just opposite it. When it finally became vacant, she bought, redesigned and remodelled it. On the ground floor is the reception area with a kitchen, fireplace and workshop, while the first floor has the storage area, where Flora keeps the decorations for weddings and receptions. She likes to keep the shop calm and quiet and only once a year, for Sant Jordi, does she receive a mass pilgrimage to her street, which she lines with 50 different kinds of roses. Together with the back garden, Flora’s shop is a lovely space to wait while your flower arrangements are being prepared. You can listen to Mozart while drinking tea by the fireplace, or read a book from a little library in the garden. Flora works with chakra colours (which uses the seven-colour spectrum with each shade thought to relate to different parts of the body and emotions) and says she knows which flowers release the right kind of energy for each occasion. Flora has been a pioneer all her life—from university to then getting a job as a landscaper and opening her own School of Floral Art, which she ran for nearly a decade. Flora says that her shop is her final destination, the place where she is the happiest and feels most fulfilled.
MORE INFO L’Adresse—Còrsega 204, ppal 3º, tel. 93 410 0329. www.ladresse-hair.com Daniel Benites—Ronda Sant Antoni 45, tel. 647 295 535. www.personaltrainerbcn.com 5º 1ª—Ronda Universitat 20, ático 3ª, tel. 93 412 5162. www.quintoprimera.com Enlace—Muntaner 231, 2º 2ª, tel. 93 209 6957. www.enlacebcn.com Flora Muserachs i Vidal—Avió Plus Ultra 21, tel. 93 205 7678
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18 NOISY NEIGHBOURS
Sound bites What can you do if troubled by the noise made by your neighbours? By Amanda August.
I
f you’re struggling to find something in common with someone living in Barcelona, mention noisy neighbours and hey presto! It’s amazing how many of us suffer the loud music, TVs, footsteps, talking and arguing of those living above, below or next door. It’s equally amazing how many of us put up with it, with a “well, that’s Barcelona for you; nothing can be done about it” attitude. However, the following personal stories show that if you’re resourceful and determined, it’s possible to get positive results or at the very least learn to live with the situation without going insane.
ing and just walked away. It was very immature but I had needed to relieve the frustration. It’s not the right way to act, though. I think the best thing to do is speak directly to the neighbours, but when I get wrenched from my sleep at three in the morning, I normally end up just banging very loudly on the walls which usually works. My landlord happens to be the landlord of the other flat so I’ve just kept complaining to him. I think other neighbours have, too. In fact he’s thrown tenants out before because of such complaints. Anyway, recently he added a clause to the rental contract stipulating no loud noise after 12pm, and things have been a lot better.”
Tony lives in the Eixample: “I’ve had problems with noise from different tenants who’ve rented the flat next door. Sometimes it’s a case of recognising that the walls are paper-thin, though, and it’s not always that the noise is unreasonable. What’s more, I’m noise sensitive and a light sleeper, but although I often wear earplugs, sometimes that isn’t enough. When I can’t sleep because of the noise, I feel angry and frustrated, sometimes even vindictive. Once, after being kept awake all night by some neighbours, I was so furious that when I left for work in the morning, and assuming that they were sleeping, I kept my finger on their doorbell until one of them answered angrily. I said noth-
Julie lives with her partner in Clot: “Furniture scraping, a small child running, objects dropping on the floor, loud voices… Every day, this tends to be my 7am wake-up call, courtesy of the family above. The fact that I also usually fall asleep to the sound of their chatter from their terrace can leave me feeling like I’m part of the happy family. Except it’s only them whooping excitedly when their little one achieves another personal best in hurtling down the length of their flat. He celebrates by leaping about with joy and his parents shout for him to do it again, and again, and again. Their front door slams at various times throughout the day, sending a shudder through me as I sit working three metres below. The
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“Often tenants are young and play music until 4am, walk about in high heels and move furniture in the early hours.” 18-20 Noisy neighbours.indd 35
woman’s daily telephone conversations to her mother—lengthy and, of course, loud—have my partner pacing in his study. The soundtrack to the rest of our day is clattering, banging and more furniture scraping as the woman frenetically cleans, and all accompanied by heavy, pounding footsteps. We tried talking to them and were shouted at and had their door shut in our faces. We then spoke to the president of the comunidad de propietarios (neighbour’s association), and he got the administrador de fincas that manages the building to send a letter, warning them about the noise. When it arrived, we heard the woman screaming hysterically and in the aftermath, the noise level tripled for a few days. We decided not to take the matter further; we just don’t want the conflict. So we’ve adapted. The fact that we both work from home made this fairly easy. We now get up at 6am and wallow in that hour of tranquility as we start our day, and I listen to my iPod before falling asleep. We try to be out of the flat in the late afternoon and early evening when the woman’s parents tend to be over and there is even more mayhem. Of course we don’t think that we should have had to resort to such measures to have some peace in our daily lives but if it means our neighbours from hell don’t dominate our every waking moment, so be it.”
>>
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20 NOISY NEIGHBOURS
>>
Maite lives with her partner and three-year-old son in Gràcia: “We’ve had terrible problems with the flat above, which the owner leases short-term to tourists. Often tenants are young and play music until 4am, walk about in high heels and move furniture in the early hours. At first we tried talking to the various tenants but they would invariably carry on. As the situation continued, my little boy was not getting enough sleep and would wake up crying and was even sick at times. I was really stressed and exhausted. I tried using earplugs but I was worried about not hearing my son if he called. Eventually I contacted the administrador de fincas. They emailed the owner, who lives in France, and she apologised but nothing
“Within homes, any activity that can disturb a neighbour between 9pm and 8am is not permitted.” changed. Shortly afterwards, I had the chance to meet with her, and to some extent she seemed to sympathise but also tried to turn the tables by saying that I must make noise myself as I have a small child. In fact I’m really careful about that and often check with my neighbour below to make sure that we don’t disturb her. After speaking to the owner, there was a brief period when things were quieter but then the problem escalated over the summer with a group who put on loud music every night and used the washing machine at 2am. The agency sent more emails and then, after a few days, my partner called the Guardia Urbana. Officers went to the
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other flat without involving us and told them to stop the noise. It was their last night anyway but since then other people staying have been quieter. To be honest, I’m not sure I handled the situation well. At the beginning, I think I was too diplomatic and it might have been more effective to have just called the Urbana straight away, as that’s what seems to have got results.” WHAT YOU CAN DO The type and volume of noise, and the time it occurs, determines your rights. The city council’s environment department states on its website that “within homes, any activity that can disturb a neighbour between 9pm and 8am is not permitted”, and gives examples of such activities, which include using electrical appliances, playing musical instruments and moving furniture. The volume of noise allowed depends on where you live, with regulations varying by neighbourhood, village, town, etc. but to give you an idea, the maximum decibels permitted at night (between 9pm and 8am) in Catalunya is 30, which is the equivalent of a hushed conversation in a library. Trying to resolve the problem by speaking directly to the neighbours is a good first step. If the problem continues, you could speak to the president of your neighbours’ association. If other neighbours have also complained, the president could organise a meeting between you all and the nuisance neighbours, or you could officially complain to the city council as a group. If it is tenants in a rented property who are the problem, try to speak to the property’s owner. If you decide to take the matter further, you have the choice of making an official complaint to the city council or civil legal proceedings—but bear in mind that getting a positive outcome in both cases is very difficult. In the first case, a complaint is presented to the city council; an inspector will look at the problem and decide where to go from there. This action can be started in person at your local council, via internet (www.bcn.cat) or by calling the free ‘Civic response line’ on 900 226 226. You can also call the Guardia Urbana (092), who will go to the neighbours’ home and start the process, if officers agree you are within your rights. Through civil legal proceedings, it may be possible to have the noise stopped and win compensation for damages. For more information, and to find a lawyer specialised in such cases, contact Advocats Especialistes en Contaminació Acústica (Lawyers Specialised in Noise Pollution)—www.aeca.cat. Whichever route taken, it is wise to keep a written record with relevant dates for future reference.
8/16/11 12:15:27 PM
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Discover more about our MBA m.wiggett@open.ac.uk www.open.ac.uk/spain
BARCELONA METROPOLITAN – September 2011
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22 VOLUNTEERING
Making friends and influencing people Joan Corrigan describes her experiences of volunteering with a group that provides support to the elderly.
E
arlier this year I decided to start volunteering in Barcelona, ideally with a group helping the elderly because, of all the marginalised groups in society, they are the group I have the most experience and rapport with. I registered with hacesfalta.org, a volunteering website, and found the address of the Catalan Federation of Social volunteering (Federació Catalana de Voluntariat Social). On my way to visit them, by coincidence, I came across exactly what I was looking for—the offices of Amics de la Gent Gran (Friends of the Elderly), a nonprofit organisation committed to relieving social isolation and loneliness amongst the elderly. They have sister groups in countries including France, Switzerland, Ireland, the US, Mexico and Canada, and here in Catalunya, they receive funding from sources such as the Spanish and Catalan governments, savings banks and private donations. At present, the volunteers of Amics support 872 old people in Catalunya in varying capacities, the most common of which is home visits. THE HARSH REALITY—WHY VOLUNTEERS ARE BADLY NEEDED The increase in life expectancy has meant that never before have people been living so long in such great numbers. In Catalunya, according to Amics de la Gent Gran, there are 1,265,442 people over the age of 65 (16.8 percent of the total population) and 250,000 live alone. Of that number, 150,000 suffer from loneliness. In my work with Amics, I have met many women who used to sit in their room crying, mourning the deaths of loved ones or overwhelmed by feelings of helplessness or boredom. Another huge issue for the elderly is health. Many in this age group have a number of such issues, both physical and mental, that leave them unable to attend day centres or take part in social events. A significant number suffer from depressive symptoms and aspects of senile dementia, and receive only basic economic resources. Ten percent of older people
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in Barcelona live in houses constructed before 1900. At the time of writing, 69 elderly people were on a waiting list hoping to be assigned an Amics volunteer to start visiting them and the Catalan Social Services department is continually referring more people to the charity. WHY VOLUNTEER? For me, volunteering is never a one-sided relationship. I have volunteered with elderly people before, in the UK, and I do it for many reasons. Mainly because I have a huge sympathy for and empathy with them. I have seen how completely alone and forgotten many of them are. But I also do it because I enjoy it. I laugh a lot. I learn a lot. It’s a cliché, but whatever I give I always get back tenfold. The rewards are instantly gratifying and also slow-burning. The woman I visit here is called Carmen, who is 88 years old. In the beginning, when we met, she was very shy. She is an only child and never married; she lived with her parents until they died and now, as her three best friends have died, she is completely alone. She had become accustomed to her own company and had cynically ‘given up’ on people. However, I have seen how Carmen has slowly welcomed me into her life, and she now opens the door for me with a smile on her face and wearing a lovely dress. I have no living grandparents and only ever knew one grandmother. Likewise, I have no family in Spain. I feel this organisation has given me a little taste of family here in Barcelona, while many times I have heard members say that their volunteers are like children to them and that Amics is their family. Carmen takes an avid interest in my life. She is always encouraging me to get out of bed on Saturdays and take those trips to Banyoles or Empùries that I always talk about doing and never do. I feel that she is urging me to do these things not just for me but for the joy she will have when I come back with stories and photos. She has seen all my travels from my laptop (the first one she ever saw in her life). Her mobility is poor and unfortunately I can’t take her round the
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VOLUNTEERING 23
Joan and Carmen. Photo by Richard Owens corner of her house to have a coffee in the beautiful Plaça Sant Pere (we live in the same neighbourhood) but she does advise me wryly about my dating and tells me many stories from her life. Her father was injured in the blast on Gran Via and Balmes in 1938 when Italian planes dropped bombs on the city, while her uncles were beaten by the police after they were heard speaking Catalan. She tells me what happened on my street in the Forties, explains whose face is on the statue near my house and what he did. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for foreigners who already have a decent level of Castilian or Catalan to better their fluency as well as become educated in local history from someone with first-hand knowledge,” said Albert Quiles, Coordinator of the Volunteering and Human Resources Department in Amics. “It really is a unique way of integrating with a local and making a difference. Ten percent of our current volunteers are from abroad.” I don’t speak Catalan yet and whilst many members would prefer to speak it, I have come across no problems in speaking Castilian with them. Indeed, my communication skills have improved a lot and we animate each other. Carmen has broken her habit of solitude. WHAT VOLUNTEERS DO I have met other Amics volunteers and they offer help depending on their preferences and availability. The home visits are typically for two hours weekly. For those with less time, there are opportunities to accompany members sporadically when they need to go to the doctor or do errands. It’s possible to help out fortnightly or monthly at literary gatherings in the home of a member, with conversation, songs and games. There are periodic light lunches and trips to the park or theatre. Volunteers can also visit terminally ill members in their home. Each year, Amics organises a summer trip out of the city for which volunteers are gratefully welcomed. This year, Amics organised a campaign for the celebration of Sant Jordi through which all members received a rose and a book. I took part
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I have seen how Carmen has slowly welcomed me into her life, and she now opens the door for me with a smile on her face. >
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24 VOLUNTEERING
Joan visiting Amics member Eugenia on Sant Jordi Day earlier this year. Photo by Ceci dos Santos
The harsh fact about cities is that someone could be dying in the flat next to ours and we would never know. >>
and delivered the gifts to three members. One of the ladies, Dolores, lives alone in Sants and not long after I entered her old apartment, she broke down—with joy on seeing me and receiving the gifts but also because both her sons had died tragically many years ago and the grief was still very raw. She could have talked all day and I felt sad to have to leave her. THE VOLUNTEER SELECTION PROCESS To begin with, volunteers need to have a genuine empathy for the elderly and have good emotional well-being. The process starts with an hourlong presentation about the organisation followed by an interview where applicants talk about their personality, experiences, current situation and
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motives. Amics has special criteria in place that aim to protect the safety and security of each elderly person who is a member of the organisation. A few weeks after my interview, a match was made between my personality and location and Carmen’s. Following my initial meeting with Carmen, which was attended by a representative from Amics, I started my regular visits with her. HOW TO SIGN UP FOR A VOLUNTEER For an older person to receive assistance from Amics, the first port of call is either their local Social Services department, their CAP (doctor’s surgery) or the Home Care and Support teams (Programa d’Atenció Domiciliària i Equips de Suport, run by the Generalitat healthcare department). Assessments will be made based on degree of isolation, degree of physical autonomy and access to local resources. I am so glad to have come across this organisation as they are some of the warmest, most open and kindest people I have met here in Barcelona. There is so much underneath the appearance of an older individual: talents that lie dormant, deep sincerity and appreciation; singing voices and dance moves that put me to shame. I am constantly reminded of the impact I have made on Carmen. The harsh fact about cities is that someone could be dying in the flat next to ours and we would never know—and as someone from the countryside of Ireland, that’s difficult to comprehend. I remember how lonely I was when I first moved here and the difference that meeting one friend made. Barcelona has been very good to me and I’m delighted to give my ‘granito de arena’ back to it. MORE INFO: To find out about becoming a volunteer for Amics de la Gent Gran, contact Albert or Nuria at voluntaris@amicsdelagentgran.org, or call their offices on 93 207 6773. www.amicsdelagentgran.org For other volunteering opportunities, visit www.hacesfalta.org or www. voluntaris.cat
8/16/11 12:18:13 PM
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main pages - September 11 .indd 2
English - Spanish - Catalan - Dutch - German - Italian
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Discover the key landmarks of September 11th and ways to mark Catalunya’s national day yourself. By Iseult Larkin. September 11th (la diada in Catalan) is when Catalans remember their defeat on that day in 1714, at the hands of troops loyal to Bourbon king Felipe V of Spain. Following a siege lasting more than a year, during which residents bravely held out despite being seriously outnumbered, the city of Barcelona fell and the 13-year War of Spanish Succession was over. The price paid by Catalunya for being on the losing side was felt heavily, with the triumphant Felipe banning the Generalitat and similar institutions, laws and public use of the Catalan language.
Palau de la Generalitat
Photo by Rubén Moreno
Various Catalan institutions hold open days to mark September 11th, including the Catalan parliament in Ciutadella park (10am to 7pm) and the Palau de la Generalitat (10am to 4pm). The latter has been the site of various key moments in Barcelona’s history and features some fabulous art and architecture. But time your visit well, because the queues can get long; it’s probably best to get there first thing or just before closing.
Photo courtesy Ômnium Cultural
Plaça de Sant Jaume Metro: Liceu (L3) or Jaume I (L4)
Festa per la Llibertat
While September 11th is arguably one of the more low-key celebrations here, with official acts often the focus of the day, the organisation Òmnium Cultural—set up during the Franco dictatorship to promote the Catalan language, culture and identity—each year hosts this ‘party for freedom’. It includes an evening concert by local bands, workshops for children in the morning and a lunch for 750 people (priced €12; tickets available from Òmnium), as well as day-long activities open to all. In addition, this year, Òmnium is celebrating its 50th anniversary, which will be marked with special events throughout the day. Passeig Lluís Companys Metro: Arc de Triomf (L1) www.omnium.cat
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El Fossar de les Moreres
This rather strange but poignant monument celebrates those who gave their lives to protect Barcelona during the siege. The monument itself consists of a low marble plaça and a tall metal structure bearing a torch: the square covers the cemetery where the defenders of the city were originally buried while the torch represents an eternal flame honouring the dead. Along the length of the torch can be read the inscription of a heroic poem by Frederic Soler, ‘El Fossar de les Moreres’ (The Cemetery of the Mulberry Trees), from which the monument gets its name. Every September 11th, the landmark serves as a meeting point for Catalan nationalist groups.
Photo by Iseult Larkin
Plaça Fossar de les Moreres Metro: Jaume I (L4)
Statue of Rafael Casanova
Photo by Iseult Larkin
Photo by Rubén Moreno
Official dignitaries traditionally make the pilgrimage to the statute of Casanova every September 11th, where they pay tribute to the heroic leader by laying floral offerings at the statue’s feet. Not to be confused with the legendary Italian womaniser, the Catalan is a great symbol of national pride and resistance. Casanova was the chief councillor of Barcelona in the year before the Bourbon invasion and troops under his command resisted three assaults in a row. Legend has it that Casanova escaped the city dressed as a monk only to reappear after an amnesty in 1719. Ronda Sant Pere with Bruc Metro: Urquinaona (L1 & L4)
Photo by Iseult Larkin
La Selecta
Come September 11th, proud citizens can be seen waving senyeres, as the Catalan flag is officially called, while many residents, businesses and organisations display it on buildings, hung from offices and private balconies alike. Nestled amongst the tapas bars and high-street shops on Rambla de Catalunya, the traditional haberdashery (merceria) La Selecta provides a multitude of material in varying lengths and thicknesses decorated with the region’s iconic colours. This family business is the ideal place to head if you want to join in with the red-and-yellow colour-scheme of the day. Rambla Catalunya 109 Metro: Diagonal (L3 & L5)
Next month: BARCELONA BUSINESSES ‘DE TOTA LA VIDA’
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On FESTIVAL ASIA P. 31
BAM FESTIVAL P. 33 SISTEMES VIUS P. 34 RETRATOS DE LA BELLE ÉPOQUE P. 34
Art<30. Photo by David Martínez.P. 35
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the edit We trawl through the month’s cultural events and pick our favourites
La Mercè
Tattoo Expo La Farga, L’Hospitalet
If you’ve ever thought of adorning your body with some art, this might be a good starting place. With ink artists from Japan, America, Spain and Portugal all gathering
Various venues
under one roof, you’re sure to find some design inspiration that won’t have you
Alongside the usual (mostly dangerous) attractions of the Mercè (fire-breathing dragons, pyrotechnics and human towers involving children), there’s plenty of safer options for you to enjoy. This year, artist Franc Aleu will be changing the face of the Ajuntament, quite literally. He’s known for his projections that distort the facades of buildings. There’s also Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC) that takes performances out of the theatre and onto the street. See website for full programme. Sep-
regretting anything in years to come. Also taking place at the three-day convention are exhibitions, seminars and a Street Zone where you’ll find breakdance shows and fashion stalls. September 30th until October 2nd. www.barcelonatattooconvention.com
Photo by Ergo Photography
tember 22nd to 25th. www.bcn.cat/merce
Día de Brasil
Moll de la Marina
Brazil has a population of over 190 million people so it isn’t surprising that when it comes to art and culture, they have a lot to offer. In celebration of this variety, Día de Brasil squeezes just a fraction of the best acts around into a 10-hour festival. This year, you can expect to see singing sensation Flávia Bittencourt (pictured right), who’s a current favourite in her home country. Also appearing are percussionists Grupo Bongar who work tirelessly to preserve the Pernambuco culture. September 4th. www.diadebrasil.es
the
gigs
Face to Face
Superpitcher
Trombone Shorty
Razzmatazz, 6th
Apolo[2], 17th
Bikini, 27th
Micah P. Hinson
Millencolin
The Baseballs
Apolo, 8th
Apolo, 22nd
Razzmatazz, 29th
Diary of Dreams
Owl City
Scott Matthew
Bikini, 9th
Apolo, 22nd
Music Hall, 30th
ON Contributors: Iseult Larkin, Amelie Malmgren, Alx Phillips, Lucy Wright and Natasha Young
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X Festival Asia
Various venues
If Asia is high on your list of places to visit but way beyond your budget, head to the Asia Festival, returning this month for its 10th anniversary edition, instead. Formed in 2001, Casa Asia (the cultural centre organising the festival) aims to promote Asian-Spanish relations and increase awareness here, through regular seminars, workshops, screenings and exhibitions, showing the best of modern Asia alongside its ancient traditions; this colourful, yearly festival is an integral part of that mission. For 10 days, Barcelona is overtaken by the sights, sounds and smells of Asia, just as the autumn celebrations begin in many parts of the continent. This year, music and martial arts are the order of the day, as the focus falls on Central Asia and the rich cultures of the many nations nestled in that region. A unique programme of performances is scheduled for festival-goers, including shadow theatre by master puppeteer Nahuel Bon, music from alumni of the Kazakhstan National Music School and traditional Mongolian
Kitty, Daisy & Lewis
Apolo
Not everyone can get away with sporting a quiff and a vintage cowboy shirt at primary school, but Kitty, Daisy and Lewis did. Just. They may have been gently teased about their threads back then, but now most musicians would kill to be this cool. Kitty, 18, Daisy, 22, and Lewis, 20, are obsessed with the music and fashion of the Fifties. A talented, multi-instrumental, brother-and-sister trio (plus mum and dad for the live shows), Kitty, Daisy & Lewis play toetapping, traditional rhythm and blues, hillbilly swing and country. Between them, they sing and play drums, ukulele, piano, banjo and guitar, while Daisy plays a mean harmonica. Back in 2000, when they started playing at a rockabilly and country jam with their parents, Kitty was just seven years old. Since then, there’s been a Blue Peter appearance (that Kitty would rather forget), support slots with Coldplay, Razorlight and Richard Hawley, and their own sold-out tours. Fast forward to 2011 and they’ve still got that gawky teenage charm but now they’re all old enough to vote and look like Hollywood pin-ups. Their latest album Smoking in Heaven is a hip-swinging homage to Elvis and Carl Perkins but with flashes of reggae and boogie-woogie thrown in. Just as with their first release, the band stuck two fingers up at the digital age and recorded the entire thing in their vintage home studio. New to this record though, is a smattering of catchy pop. ‘Messing With My Life’ is a radio-friendly sing-a-long, while ‘I’m So Sorry’ has lovely flourishes of sleazy ska trumpets that’ll have you sprinkling talc on the floorboards and digging out your Northern Soul collection. It still doesn’t beat the handclapping magnificence of their 2008 single ‘Going up to The Country’ but there’s still plenty here to keep those feet moving.--NY
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fighting. And who could resist the chance to see Pakistan’s most famous pop princess take to the stage? Performances take place at various sites around the city, including the MACBA, Biblioteca de Catalunya and Ateneu Barcelonès. The festival draws to a dramatic close with the aptly named ‘Day in Asia’, when the Plaça dels Àngels and Plaça de Joan Coromines are transformed into a Mongolian nomad’s camp, complete with traditional yurts. Inside the tents, there’ll be storytelling, arts and crafts, dance performances and a games corner, where kids can learn the popular games of Kyrgyzstan and Taiwan. Prominent Asian-Catalan communities will also be present, giving craft workshops and short demonstrations throughout the day. The Festival Asia is unlike any other festival you’ll go to this year, from the diverse line-up to the free entry. But fun aside, the festival is also a great way to learn more about Asian cultures, old and new. Get there early, soak up the atmosphere and forget where you are for a while. It might not be the real deal, but it’s a pretty good substitute.--LW X Festival Asia. September 16th to 25th. www.casaasia.es
30th
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Les 12 Hores de Màgia
La Seca
As anyone who lives here or has visited the city will testify, there is something magical about Barcelona. But perhaps it’s not just the creativity, the fantastic architecture or FC Barcelona’s otherworldly abilities that give the city its enchanted air. Barcelona has in fact got something of a history with the dark arts. It was a native of Barcelona, Pau Minguet, who in 1733 published the first Spanish book on magic. And it was here too, in the Catalan capital, that the Salón Mágico opened in 1894, making it the very first theatre devoted to magic in the whole of the country. Today, Barcelona’s ongoing fascination with the extraordinary can be witnessed at the annual magical extravaganza, Les 12 Hores de Màgia de Barcelona, part of the Mercè celebrations. La Mercè itself is a holiday where illusions and the phantasmic (think pyrotechnical displays, correfocs—where people dressed like devils run through the streets brandishing fireworks—and parades of papier-mâché giants) traditionally delight the crowds. This year’s 12-hour magical bonanza will feature five of the most important magicians on the national scene, Gerard Escarré, Moustache, Isaac, and Charlie Mag and Magnolo (winners of the 2011 Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques), who will amaze and astound with displays of close-up and parlour magic. Barcelona’s own Hausson, a magician described as a synthesis of Houdini, Fregoli and Méliès, is in charge of the show’s coordination and will be both performer and host. The ‘marathon of magic’, as it is billed, is made up of a series of 45-minute long shows, one every hour, beginning at noon and ending at the witching hour, midnight. Despite the new venue in the Born, which doubles the capacity of previous years, this is a popular event
24th
so get your tickets early to avoid disappointment.--IL Tickets are from e6 per show. www.laseca.cat
Anna Calvi
Sala KGB
Believe the hype and Anna Calvi is the British female artist we’ve all been waiting for. Florence Welch is too showy, Adele too mainstream and with the untimely death of Amy Winehouse, the credible female artist throne sits empty. Step forward Calvi; looking like a moody, less-pretty sister of Natalie Portman, it’s easy to see the remains of the precocious child who taught herself guitar in her bedroom listening to Jimi Hendrix records. Citing Nina Simone and Edith Piaf as musical influences and David Lynch as a visual inspiration Calvi claims that her study of classical arrangement at university has helped her make music that tells a story as much as the vocals, with tension and release playing integral parts in her compositions. What’s clear is that this is no stage school graduate. She has the finger-picking skills of Django Reinhardt and a self-styled flamenco look that’s more interesting than a lot of what else is on offer, but there’s still something missing. Yes, the album shows moments of highly-skilled musicianship but one can’t help but feel that the musical pundits have jumped
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on this Italian-English newcomer with the relish of a drowning man sighting a life raft. There are glimpses of greatness in Anna Calvi but time will tell if she really is worthy of the crown.
For more live events, visit our website: www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
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22nd
BAM
27th
Various venues
It would appear that the BAM festival (Barcelona Acció Musical), the music event that takes place during the Mercè festivities, has had a little makeover. The festival is now under the artistic direction of Carles Conesa, a man previously responsible for booking bands at Apolo and a promoter at Houston Party Records, and it’s his considerable music knowledge that’s in evidence in this year’s programme. First notable inclusion on the bill is French outfit Herman Dune. The boys, David-Ivar Dune and Cosmic Neman, are fresh from releasing their 12th studio album, Strange Moosic, with a blue yeti and Mad Men’s Jon Hamm featuring in their latest video. Sadly they aren’t on tour with them. Next up is soul singer Aloe Blacc. If you haven’t heard single ‘I need a dollar’ then you must have been cut off from civilisation of late as it has enjoyed almost constant radio play. Other acts to look out for include the Dominican Republic’s Rita Indiana whose blend of merengue, hip hop and house music should get the party going. Also of note are Philadelphia quintet Man Man and from the UK, Zomby, possibly the current king of dubstep. All in all, a pleasing and varied mix that should excite those who’d given up on the musical offerings at the Mercè. September 22nd to 24th. www.bcn.cat/bam
George Michael
Palau Sant Jordi
When George Michael appeared on Desert Island Discs in 2007, his top record choice (the one he’d keep if seven of his eight discs had to be lost) was Amy Winehouse’s ‘Love is a Losing Game’. As well as clearly appreciating the late singer’s music, it’s hard not to think that in her, Michael saw a kindred spirit. Their various personal problems have played out on front pages around the world; photos of the two caught at moments of vulnerability and disorientation often accompanied speculative stories about matters that shouldn’t be of public interest but still manage to sell newspapers. George Michael’s musical career has also had its troubles with long gaps between releases, legal confrontations with record labels and, of course, ‘Wham Rap!’. But, despite everything, he continues to perform and record, throwing some surprises into the mix along the way. Michael arrives in Barcelona this month with his Symphonica Tour, featuring orchestral versions of some of his back catalogue. While he isn’t pioneering the idea, his music isn’t the obvious choice for a classical spin. Still, George Michael has proved that he has the stubbornness and determination to do things his way, and is certainly a showman, so this could turn out to be one spectacular evening at the Palau Sant Jordi for 16,000 of his many fans.
NEW 30-33 LIVE.indd 33
8/16/11 12:55:40 PM
34 ON
Giovanni Boldini. Cléo de Mérode. 1901. Colección particular. © Giovanni Boldini, VEGAP, Barcelona, 2011
Sistemes Vius
Retratos de la Belle Époque
Arts Santa Mònica. Until September 25th
CaixaForum. Until October 9th
What would have happened if your great-grandfather hadn’t laid eyes
The Belle Époque refers to a 30-year period at the turn of the last century.
upon that beautiful woman he wound up marrying? Or even worse, if he
It was perceived to be an optimistic era of economic wealth and political
had gone for her voluptuous friend instead? The ever-so-long chain of
stability that collapsed with the First World War. In the 1890s, European-
coincidences or flukes that has led to our existence is under the magnify-
based portrait painters, led by the North American John Singer Sargent,
ing glass at Arts Santa Mònica’s exhibition ‘Living Systems’.
enjoyed numerous commissions and with their status in society secure,
On display are six installations by Christa Sommerer and Laurent Mignonneau, creators of interactive art that applies principles of living system-theory related to ecology, artificial life and complexity science. Sounds complicated? Well, it is. But it is also good fun, especially since you hold the cards in their virtual world. Using devices as diverse as keyboards, touch screens, a flashlight or your bare hands, the installations allow you to create life in the form of gaudy creatures and trailing plants. These are placed in closed ecosys-
dared to experiment with personal artistic style. The Italian Giovanni Boldini used lithe brushstrokes that brought breezy abandon to ladies’ gowns. Sargent gave gentlemen’s foreheads a slight sheen, making stuffy society figures seem impassioned. Even Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla’s garden settings had their wild side, suggestive of the exciting inner emotions of the figures immersed in them. Yet embedded within the burgeoning individualism of the Belle Époque were the seeds of its decay: a confrontation with personal responsibility that was to turn 19th-century
glass pool where only the fittest will survive to mate and reproduce. The
self-confidence into 20th century horror. In room one, self-portraits jostle for attention, reminding us that art history isn’t just about who was best, but how they became so. While Sargent, the son of an eye surgeon, was the most skilled of the painters, it’s only in the context of other portraitists that the new artistic ambition
creatures interact among themselves but also with visitors by reacting to
to capture the human spirit emerges. The composer Edvard Grieg or
hand movements in the water. If you attempt to catch one, it will try to
the dramatist Anton Chekhov became the preferred subject matter for
flee, but stay still if it gets caught. None of the creatures are predesigned;
Norwegian painter Peder Krøyer and the Ukrainian Osip Braz, who sought
they are all born exclusively in real time and their destiny is sealed by
to associate humanity and creativity, as if it were a candle flame bringing
tems where you can observe or interfere with their evolution. The installation A-Volve serves as a good example. Using a touch screen, you give birth to a virtual three-dimensional creature that moves in a water-filled
evolutionary and human decisions. In fact, without human interaction nothing exists; it is the visitors who regulate and modify the landscape of living beings and the biodiversity proposed by the artists. You watch over the growth and health of an ecosystem and you also decide when it’s time for it to die. By looking at how simpler particles develop into increasingly complex structures and whole systems, Sommerer and Mignonneau ultimately
light to gloomy surroundings. Soul searching brought uncomfortable truths, however, and not just in art. The stability of the Belle Époque was deceptive, conflict had moved to Africa where aggressive colonisation foreshadowed further atrocities of the First World War. Key literary works of the period, Oscar Wilde’s Picture of Dorian Grey and Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, unpeeled human nature, revealing it to be a bestial, bloody affair. Four grimy works by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, boxed off for full
bring up the question of how life emerged on earth in the first place.
impact, mark the crossing point from one century to the next. Then, more
Thus, their playful installations not only enable you to experiment with
a case of the lights going up than the lights going out, artists seemed
virtual fate but make you realise how lucky you are that your great-grand-
suddenly to take fright. Blinded by Ernst Kirchner’s gaudy colours,
mother knew how to move those hips.--Amelie Malmgren
terrified by Hermen Anglada-Camarasa’s demonic women, or pinned to the canvas like Egon Schiele’s poet, suddenly they were seeing too much.--Alx Phillips
34-35 ARTS.indd 52
8/18/11 11:40:43 AM
ON 35
Quick picks
Memòria Fragmentada. CCCB. September 9th to November 3rd. cccb.org
Thursday, Friday & Saturday From 23h to 03h Free entrance Borne area, Av. Marqués de l’Argentera, 27 Metro: Barceloneta, Jaume I Estació de França
Passeig de Picasso
Dancefloor Jazz, Funk, Soul, Hip Hop & Latin Kicks Parc de la Ciutadella
Av. Marqués de l’Argentera Estació de França
3 Tamara Zaitsera. Galería H2O. September 22nd to October 21st. h2o.es
Art<30. Sala Parés. September 6th to 25th. salapares.com
34-35 ARTS.indd 53
8/18/11 11:40:50 AM
36 GASTRONOMY
Hot spot I
have but three words for this place. Hurrah, hurrah, hurrah! I’ve been waiting 10 years for a decent Thai place to open in Barcelona, but this isn’t just decent, it’s great. And it’s located on the cutest street you never knew the city had. I only ever go to Les Corts to visit friends for lunch, so who knew that tucked down a backstreet less than five minutes from the Plaça del Centre metro, there is a tree-lined mews of pastel coloured houses and the unlikely, but hugely welcome Bangkok Café on the corner? Over the years, countless people have told me the reason Thai places haven’t been much cop in Barcelona is because the food is too spicy for local palates. Perhaps they’ve not had a good look at who constitutes the ‘local’ palate these days: Brits, French, Danish, Dutch, German, Austrian, Swedish, Australian, American along with the Spanish and Catalans—all of them out there and looking for a little something to brighten the taste buds of an evening. On the night of my visit, a good many of them were at Bangkok Café, which, I’m happy to report, dumbs down for no man. You’ll find a liberal sprinkling of fresh, hot chillies and other aromatics in their dishes, which are marked out by hand-drawn chillies on the menu to indicate hotness and that really mean what they say i.e. bit spicy, average spicy, very spicy. I’ve long maintained that Asian restaurants in Barcelona should give their punters credit for being a bit more daring than they think and this was a case in point: it was rammed, it was excellent, it is a breath of fresh air and, please God, long may it continue. Bangkok is a sweet little place, with recipes chalked up on blackboard over the windows, and a kitchen that defies the odds by turning out a vast array of dishes from a space barely big enough to swing a cat. Yet, like so many similarly tiny restaurants in the motherland— not to mention the street food vendors—what comes out of it is fresh, lively, crowd-pleasing stuff, that reminds you why you love food in the first place. It took a while and a bottle of Singha each before we got served, but once these people get going service is speedy and no-nonsense with dishes arriving hot and perfectly timed. We had Pho Phia Thai (fried
vegetable rolls) with a slick of Sriracha sauce—a ubiquitous hot chilli sauce, easily bought in Asian supermarkets here—and a sweet-sharp dipping sauce sprinkled with crushed peanuts, along with Ha Kao (steamed shrimp and vegetable dumplings), popping with juicy deliciousness. Larb Kai—a traditional Laotian salad consisting of minced chicken on a bed of baby gem lettuce leaves—had been generously tossed with sliced green chillies, mint and spring onions, each complementing the other brilliantly, the chillies robust and deeply flavoured with a heat that sneaks up on you over mouthfuls rather than blowing your head off in one bite. A rather delicate Som Tam (green papaya salad) laced with red chilli and tiny dried shrimp made an excellent refresher course before mains that were very good, if not quite so tastebud dazzling as the starters. We had Kaeng Pet Ped Yang, a sliced duck breast in sumptuous red curry sauce and pungent holy basil leaves, the slightly furry, slightly minty Thai strain of basil; and Ped Kaprow, which is duck stir-fried with a fiery mix of hot chilli, green beans, bamboo shoots, sliced garlic and more basil, complemented with Nuea Kaprow, the same but made with beef. Panang Nuea Kaprow, a rich beef curry with coconut milk and crushed peanuts soothed and comforted in that way that something saucy does. And when two bowls of jasmine rice arrived, it was the one flicker of disappointment I experienced all night. They seemed teeny. In fact Little Miss Greedy here needn’t have worried. We struggled to get through all the food on the table and abandoned all hope of dessert, though the friend that suggested I go there assured me the mango sorbet and homemade coconut ice-cream are things of beauty. She, like me, is also a fan of Petit Bangkok in Gràcia. Another great little Thai joint that’s also generally rammed and located well off the beaten path. But when push comes to shove, for my euro, Bangkok Café just has the edge: authentic, unpretentious and the kind of food that becomes so addictive you need a hit of it at least once or twice a week. Bangkok Café—Evarist Arnús 65 (Les Corts). Tel. 93 339 3269. Open: Tues-Sun, noon to 3.30pm and 8-11.30pm. Around €25 for several shared courses plus beer. Tara’s rating: ✪✪✪✪✪
Read TARA’S food and drink blog for the latest gourmet news and reviews: www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
36-37. food & drink.indd 56
✪ - NOT WORTH THE TRIP, ✪✪ - COULD IMPROVE, ✪✪✪ - GOOD, ✪✪✪✪ - VERY GOOD, ✪✪✪✪✪ - NOT TO BE MISSED
Fans of Thai food should head for Les Corts and this small gem of a restaurant. By Tara Stevens. Photo by Richard Owens.
8/18/11 12:21:25 PM
GASTRONOMY 37
Recipe
by Tara Stevens
PASTA MÚJOL
P
asta a la Bottarga or Spaghetti con Uova de Pesce, granted sounds a whole lot better than Pasta Mújol, so if, like me, you think you don’t much care for mújol—the cured, salted grey mullet roe of the south that you see sold together with hunks of bacalao and mojama (air-cured tuna) in the Boqueria—try it the Sicilian or Sardinian ways, with a pinch of hot red chilli pepper and lemon zest over pasta. Here in Spain, huevos de mújol are traditionally served as a tapa cut into thin slices and drizzled with a little olive oil to serve with a glass of Fino or Manzanilla. But they can be a little full-on and fish-oily. This dish was inspired by a recipe by Antonio Carluccio and makes a great introduction to the product.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES FOUR) · · · · · · · ·
200g dried pasta, such as conchigliette 2-3 tbsp olive oil 4-5 cloves garlic, crushed ½ -1 tsp chilli flakes (or to taste) 50g mújol zest of two lemons large handful parsley, finely chopped salt and pepper
Method Cook the pasta according to packet instructions until al dente. Reserve around 50ml of the cooking liquid for use later. Heat the olive oil in a shallow pan, add the garlic and sauté until golden and sticky looking. Add the chilli and cook for another minute or two, before adding the lemon zest and most of the parsley (save some to garnish). Add the drained pasta to the garlic mix along with just enough cooking liquid to give it a bit of juice. Shave the mújol over the top using a mandolin slicer, a fine grater or microplane. Stir well so that the mújol starts melting into the pasta. Check for seasoning (it probably won’t need any salt, but this is up to you), and sprinkle on the remaining parsley to serve. SERVING SUGGESTION A crisp green salad for contrast—I like watercress, rocket and other peppery leaves—and a light rosé wine like a Muga Rosado 2010 from la Rioja.
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8/18/11 12:21:28 PM
38 GASTRONOMY
Lunch with...
US actress Molly Malcolm is Tara Stevens’s lunch companion this month.
M
olly Malcolm arrived in Barcelona from New York in 1998. In the Big Apple, she’d done various stage productions while moonlighting as a waitress for large events companies to pay the bills. When an opportunity came up to visit Barcelona for a month, she leapt at the chance, thinking it would be a good chance to regroup before diving into her career stateside. Fast forward 13 years and she’s been here ever since. The lunch: Sagàs Sicilian sardinas fumadas with artichoke hearts on ciabatta, Báhn Mì (a Vietnamese baguette stuffed with fresh herbs, roast chicken, crunchy vegetables and chilli sauce) and Bons de Porc, an inside-out Chinesestyle pork bun stuffed with cochinillo (suckling pig). How come you ended up staying in Barcelona? Right after I arrived, I landed a job in a commercial for La Caixa and things took off from there. I thought to myself, I can either go back to New York and compete with a thousand other ‘me’s’, or carve out a niche for myself here and learn another language, which was something I had always wanted to do. What are you working on now? There’s a show coming out in the fall on Telecinco—a biopic called Tita Cervera, La Baronesa, which is about life in the Thyssen family; I play Señora Davidoff. I’m also narrating a 10-episode documentary by the American organic supermarket Whole Foods, which is effectively about saving the planet. We cover water issues, solar and wind
38 Lunch with.indd 42
power and food innovation, specifically aquaponics [the fusion of aquaculture and hydroponics, the process of growing plants in sand] as a potentially crucial solution to feeding the world in the future. What are your thoughts on the food scene in Barcelona these days? The biggest challenge is finding a place that is consistently good. I live in the centre of town so I have a couple of favourite places that are my mainstays. I like places where you feel like you’re at home, it’s cosy and you’re treated personally. Why did you choose Sagàs for lunch today? I wanted something low-key but different. One of my favourite things on earth is a great burger, but it’s nice to get a bit of variety, so the idea of a gourmet sandwich bar works for me. Molly’s top tips El Atril (Carders 23, tel. 93 310 1220) is a bit of a second home for me. The menú del día is always varied, service is great and the price is right (€10.50). On top of that, it’s a beautiful location with a lovely little terrace. I love the tender little filets of kangaroo with a slice of foie on the top, and the scallops with almond-cream sauce. I always have a crisis on a Monday when it’s closed and we have nowhere to go. Sagàs Pla de Palau 13 (Born), tel. 93 310 2434. Open: Sunday to Thursday, noon to 1am; Friday and Saturday, noon to 2am. www.sagaspagesosicuiners.com
8/16/11 12:20:54 PM
main pages - August 11 .indd 3
7/18/11 1:31:46 PM
Food &Drink
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www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/eating-and-drinking UNDER 20 | 20-30 | 30-40 | OVER 40 RV Reservation Advised | NEW in food & drink this month
Bagels
Bar - Live Music
E
V.O.s
Plaça Cardona 4 | Metro GràciaCarrer | Paris 200 | Metro Diagonal Tel. 93 002 2300 | Open 8am-3am an
C/Muntaner 544 | Metro Putxet | Bus: 64 (stop Muntaner); Bus: 22, 75 (stop Pl. Bononova) Mon-Fri 9am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-6pm
VOS Bar Dec 2010.indd 1
7Sins Bar and Lounge 4EIXAMPLE e If you’re looking for a friendly and good value place to get a bite to eat, 7Sins is the place you’re looking for! Their menu has a vast selection of dishes to share as well as a large choice of gourmet 100% beef burgers. After your meal there’s an elegant lounge with Chesterfield sofas and impressive decor, ideal for having a drink or cocktail. 7Sins also has a terrace where you can enjoy a meal or a drink outdoors. You can see their full menu at www.7sinsbar.com
C/Muntaner 7 | Metro Universitat | Tel. 93 453 6445 www.7sinsbar.com | Mon-Fri 11am-3am, Sat-Sun 6pm-3am | RV
Food & drink sept 2011.indd 44
Ever wished you could share a cocktail with Audrey Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart here in Barcelona? Well now you can! Cinebar brings the golden age of cinema back to Barcelona with original version screenings of everything from Hollywood classics to French New Wave and Italian neo-realism. While you’re there, enjoy a ‘cine sandwich’ made from a selection of rustic breads, a movie-themed salad, fresh juices, smoothies, proper Italian coffee or, of course, a cocktail.
u ca es so yo h subtitl it w p the ackdro sic from d as a b BE MY BAGEL 4GRÀCIA screene cted mu flaherty's4BARRI GÒTIC le e s y ll fu the care ould c o enjoy Do you dream of great bagels? Then Be u ls a o y Since it was established in 2001, Flaherty’s hed ties. My Bagel is the right place for you. They ver wis ocktails Thirties to the Six has become one of Barcelona’s best known c a sell authentic bagels from Barcelona, just n o l and busiest Irish pubs. By offering food arce how you like them. ade all day from 10amsatilndmidnight share B urn or wich’ m (including b p e e H in ‘c Irish Breakfast as well ey our popular as y a Full They have an extensive range of bagelsith Audr ere, enjo hemeond big satellite sports w u can. o movie-t you’re th group menus), alive y a e , il s w and cakes, from the more classic choices h d o W c bre a sunny terrace andoaffepool screens,tiWiFi, art? N c e such as poppy and multigrain to delicious n of rus aliandarts, rey Bog can not er Itplay selectio room where you ropalso p and innovative chocolate,Hu almond mphand , s from a ie toes,mention smoothits very spacious premises, a coconut bagels - you’ll not come away is ic a ju n rdo esh Flaherty’s has rightly become known as disappointed. salad, fr Plaza Ca il. has it all! EBAR in the pub cktathat ’s IN C re e d e th n , is rse, a co ly ope d news r, of cou o o o g The new e d th fans an ith C/ nts, for film s, 200 (w our eve magnet n C/Pari on for y o ti a g c in lo n t ope erfec swanky r braInch is the p tivals to theGràcia Planeta 37 (Pl. del Sol) I Metro L3 Fontana anoand Cinebar th. film fes n i o in m m is d Tel. 93 518 7151 I bemybagel@gmail.com th s an not tionJoaquim nados) jecPlaça Xirau | Metro Drassanes shaken Open from Mon-Fri 9.30-2pm and 5pm-8.30pm, Enric Gra from pro Tel. 93 412 6263 ’s a Martini – Sat 10am-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm, Sun 10.30am-2pm it tail, r e ck ne cock ema ba o wheth hampag e of cin irées. S C g o a a s r n o e fter f . e gold you’re a nings o t you kid brings thCafé - IceioCream n scree Shop stirred – that oking a lo rs Cinebar e ’s v l re a e ebar. H h origin ch it at Cin Margarita Blue lona wit to Fren u’ll findCafetería to Barce classics o y d o o w 4BARRI GÒTIC Holly are Vil·la Florida4SarriÀ ing from All films everyth ealism. -r o e n n a Located in the heart of old Barcelona, li a It d A little oasis in Barcelona’s Zona Alta ave an Margarita Blue has become a classic New W Cafetería Vil·la Florida is situated in the in the city’s bar scene. Delight in the San Gervasi civic centre, in a beautiful, dishes from the ‘‘Mexiterranean” kitchstately building surrounded by gardens. en, such as a variety of tacos, amazing During the week they offer á la carte or guacamole, fresh carpaccio and tomates armenú whilst at the weekends there’s verdes fritos or take pleasure in a drink a b e in C brunch and tapas. or cocktail whilst appreciating new Breakfasts, premium teas, fresh natumusic and spectacular shows that altera 4 juices, and cakes and biscuits plus rdonral nate between theatre and performance Plaza Ca s 2healthy, 00 home-made deserts. ri a art. Carrer P 971 0 7 9 1 Tel. 65 2300 93 002 C/Josep Anselm Clave 6 | Metro Drassanes Tel. 93 412 5489 | www.margaritablue.com | Mon-Fri 1.30pm-4pm, 8pm-2.30am, Sat-Sun 6pm-2.30am | RV
Bar
V.O.S Cinebar4 SARRIÀ & EIXAMPLE
11/2/10 12:25:47 PM
Bellamia Heladeria Italiana4BORN After a long day of discovering Barcelona, people queue up to taste Bellamia’s exquisite gelato. The reason: friendly staff, an excellent location, but most of all, delicious, freshly made ice cream that gets raving reviews from everyone who’s tried it. Bellamia’s ice cream is gluten-free and you can let them surprise you with some of their original treats like ice cream sandwiches and panne cotte. Visit their lovely store in the heart of Born and you’ll be in for a tasty treat.
C/Epaseria 14 | Metro Jaume I, | Tel. 93 310 4210 1pm-midnight (50m from Santa Maria del Mar)
8/22/11 2:36:54 PM
FOOD & DRINK 41 delivery Vitali PiZZa Special Metropolitan offer: Buy 3 pizzas and get the 4th pizza FREE + a bottle of Lambrusco.
C. Paris, 109 I Metro Hospital Clinic I Tel. 93 444 4737 Gran Via, 931 I Metro Clot | Tel. 93 303 0735 C. Taxdirt, 13 I Metro Joanic/Gracia | Tel. 93 285 41 95 www.vitalipizza.com
SuShi on the BeaCh
Two boys put their heads together and came up with a great idea! Sushi delivered to you while you sunbathe on the beach, 7 days a week. Choose between two 8 menus. 4 Prawn Makis with cream cheese, strawberry, salmon, teriyaki sauce and black sesame + 4 Futomaki of salmon and mango + 4 California rolls You’re just a call away from fresh sushi, made daily with love, delivered to you while you sunbathe. Tel. 672 917 174
gourMet eXPreSS4 BARCELONA ‘Lunch Box’ by Gourmet Express. The best alternative to pizza or Asian food. A new concept in Barcelona; they are specialists in delivering high-quality food to your home or office at reasonable prices. They can deliver within 30 minutes, exquisite menús, made by our own chefs using only the freshest products. Traditional Catalan and Mediterranean food to satisfy the most discerning palate, thoughtfully served with all you might need, including metal cutlery and glasses. All so you can enjoy food in the comfort of your home or office. Free delivery to readers of Barcelona Metropolitan. C/Pasaje Milans 28 | Tel. 93 260 0789 | www.gourmet-express.es
hard roCK Cafe4CIUTAT VELLA Hard Rock Cafe Barcelona offers an inspired, creative ambience with incredible rock‘n’roll memorabilia on display. Come and taste authentic American food. Their barbecue entrées slow cooked in the cafe’s hardwood smokers are delicious. Visit the bar to try a premium cocktail and check out the live music and special events on offer. Don’t forget to stop at the Rock Shop for fine, classic, cotton T-shirts or a collectable Hard Rock pin.
Plaça Catalunya 21 | Metro Catalunya | Tel. 93 270 2305 | www.hardrock.com/barcelona | Restaurant: Sun-Thurs 12am-2am, Fri, Sat and hol eves 12am-3am | Rock Shop: Sun-Thurs 10am-1.30am, Fri, Sat and hol eves 10am-2am
international gut4GRÀCIA Firstly there’s the food. Using only the finest quality ingredients, the kitchen specialises in Mediterranean cuisine with an international twist and plenty of options for vegetarians. Try their quinoa and tofu burgers or a sinful home-made dessert. Secondly, there’s Gut’s attention to detail and the friendly, respectful service. It’s the perfect place to have a drink and enjoy the night in good company. Try it for yourself and find out why everyone is talking about Gut.
C/Perill, 13 I Metro Diagonal Tel. 93 186 6360 I restaurantgut@gmail.com
NEFW &D IN
PinK elePhant4 EIXAMPLE
fahrenheit4EIXAMPLE E
Craving something from home? Owned and operated by an American chef, the Pink Elephant, now in its third year, offers exciting contemporary American cuisine accompanied by an extensive cocktail menu made with home-made fruit juices and fresh herbs. All of our moist, delicious desserts are made on the premises as well. Don’t forget Thanksgiving is coming up and this year our menu will be better than ever! Details will be available soon on our blog.
Fahrenheit is a cosmopolitan location that combines fine dining within a modern sophisticated lounge. Already a highly-rated kitchen, this month Fahrenheit’s restaurant introduces an acclaimed new chef and completely new menu. Each dish originates from a different country and is carefully elaborated to respect the traditions of that cuisine while adding a very contemporary touch. After dinner at Fahrenheit is the perfect place to savour the meal and relax with a drink. Try one of our carefully prepared cocktails or maybe something from our extensive list of gin and tonics—the house speciality. September also sees the launch of Fahrenheit’s new ‘Afterwork Lounge’, a great place to enjoy a complimentary tapa with a glass of wine or international beer to help you unwind after a long day in the office.
Aribau 131 | Metro Diagonal/Hospital Clinic | Tel. 93 531 3435 | reservas@131Fahrenheit.com www.131Fahrenheit.com
Food & drink sept 2011.indd 45
NEFW &D IN
C/Villarroel, 82 I Metro L1 Urgell/L5 Hospital Clinic Tel. 93 502 4825 I info@pinkelephantlounge.com www.pinkelephantrestaurante.com Mon-Fri 1pm-4pm, 7pm-1am, Sat 1pm-4pm, 7pm-3am, Sun 7pm-1am
8/22/11 2:37:03 PM
42 FOOD & DRINK indian - Modern Shanti4LES CORTS
goVinda (Vegetarian)4BARRI GÒTIC
Shanti (which means peace in Sanskrit) have selected a rich and varied menu comprised of traditional dishes that offer an authentic Indian experience to even the most discerning palettes. Using classic recipes their dishes respect tradition but come with modern presentation. Try their tasting menu for only 24.90 (+IVA).
A restaurant veteran for 24 years, Govinda specialises in vegetarian Indian cuisine. The international menu features talis, a salad bar, natural juices, lassis, pizzas and crêpes. It offers a veganfriendly, non-alcoholic and authentically decorated environment with lunch and weekend menus. Pl. Villa de Madrid 4-5 | Metro Catalunya | Tel. 93 318 7729 | www.amalteaygovinda.com | Tue-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8.30pm-12am, Sun-Mon 1pm-4pm
Juice and Smoothie Bar JuiCY JoneS 4GOTICO Barcelona’s quintessential juice bar, Juicy Jones has more than 15 years experience. Always fresh, always vegan, they serve a variety of over 50 juices and smoothies. Vegan, tapas, salads, sandwiches and a menú del diá served all day for just 8.50. Beware of imitations!
C/Agustina Saragossa 3-5 (in front of CC L’Illa) Metro Maria Cristina - Tram 1,2,3 L’Illa Tel. 93 252 3115 | www.shanti.es Mon-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11.45pm Closed Sun | RV
Calle Cardinal Casañas, 7 | Metro Liceu | Tel. 93 302 4330 Every day 10am-11pm
Sano 4GRÀCIA - BARRI GÒTIC
Shanti4CALAFELL
Want a healthy, tasty alternative? Try a refreshing smoothie like Antioxidant, Mango & Passion Fruit or Coco Muesli ( 3.80) or a delicious juice made only with fresh blended fruit and no added water, milk or sugar ( 3.60). Can’t decide? Try one of their convenient combos from 4.50.
This exciting new restaurant opens its doors in the quaint beach town of Calafell. They serve authentic Indian dishes using traditional recipes but with a modern presentation. Come and enjoy their terrace which has fantastic beach views.
Ave. Sant Joan de Deu 43, Calafell Playa, Tel. 97 769 3901 I info@shantirestaurant.com. www.shantirestaurant.com
indian - hindu
Gran de Gràcia, 16 | Metro Diagonal | Tel. 93 217 8115 | Jaume I 1, | Metro Jaume I | Tel. 93 310 3247 Every day 10am-8pm | info@sanojuice.com | www.sanojuice.com
food &drink
to advertise in this section, please call 93 451 4486 or email ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com
Mediterranean Veg World4GRÀCIA Discover a world of sensations in a relaxed and homely atmosphere. Try vegetarian delicacies from all over the world such as delicious bread home-made in a Tandoori oven and south Indian dishes like Masala dosa and Idly. Daily continental and Indian menus, 9.50 inc. Free soup and salad buffet.
C/Bruniquer 26 | Metro Plaça Joanic Tel. 93 210 7056 | Tues-Sun 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11.30pm
food &drink
to advertise in this section, please call 93 451 4486 or email ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com
Food & drink sept 2011.indd 46
roMero4 EIXAMPLE D Located in the centre of the city, just a few streets from Passeig de Grácia, this exquisite and charming restaurant serves fresh, organic produce sourced directly from local markets. The staff are determined to share their love for Barcelona and its culinary wonders and only use the best ingredients to create their delicious dishes. The idea behind the restaurant was to create a unique space where good friends could come together and enjoy great Mediterranean food and wine. The chef at Romero, José Antonio Camacaro León, has an unmatched passion for food and offers his guests creative, natural dishes based on Mediterranean cuisine. With options for vegetarians and gluten-free menu items, there’s something to suit all tastes. Be sure to check out the great value set menus and daily specials too. C/Bailén 115 | Metro Verdaguer or Girona | Tel. 93 457 0640 info@romerobcn.com | www.romerobcn.com | Mon to Sat Lunch starting at 1pm Mon-Fri 5pm-9pm, Thu-Sat Dinner starting at 8.30pm
8/22/11 2:37:09 PM
FOOD & DRINK 43 Sushi thai thai4EIXAMPLE E
SUSHIEXPRESS4EIXAMPLE If you want to enjoy the best sushi service in the city, this is your place! Sushiexpress takes great pride in using top quality ingredients to ensure excellent sushi. They are conveniently located in two places in the city: l’Eixample and Santaló, and they can deliver it to your home or hotel. Delivery is from 1pm-3pm and from 8pm-11pm. You can choose individual pieces of maki, nigiri, sashimi, temaki, menus, combos, and other Japanese specialties from an extensive menu that you can check on their website. If you eat at any of their locations at noon the menus are accompanied by a free drink. Consell de Cent, 255, | Tel. 93 451 5454 Open 12pm-4pm, 7pm-11pm 365days/year! Delivery 1pm-3pm, 8pm-10.30pm
Thai Thai restaurant invites you to taste and enjoy traditional Thai food with tropical ingredients from Thailand prepared by Thai chefs. They specialise in all kinds of Thai curries. Thai Thai has created a delicious tasting menu for only 24 and a fresh menu of the day is on offer for 9.50 during the week. C/Diputació 91 | Metro Urgell | Tel. 620 938 059 | www.thaithai.es C/Princep Jordi, 6 | Metro España | Tel. 663 126 398 | Every day 1pm-4pm, 8pm-12am | RV | www.thaithaibcn.com
food &drink
to advertise in this section, please call 93 451 4486 or email ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com
Vegetarian
aMaltea4EIXAMPLE E
naKaShita4 BORN
Visit Amaltea vegetarian restaurant where tasty and healthy meals are served in a welcoming environment. Dishes include cereals, pulses and vegetables with home-made puddings. The cuisine is creatively international with care taken to ensure all ingredients are fresh and dishes are well balanced. Menu of the day 10.50, night and weekend menu 15.
Nakashita is Barcelona’s newest sushi restaurant, a cosy place where you can enjoy the best Japanese food and freshest seafood. Located close to the Arc de Triomf, the restaurant feels like an authentic Japanese tavern with a very intimate atmosphere. Enjoy your delicious food along with wine, Japanese beer or sake.
C/Diputació 164 | Metro Urgell | Tel. 93 454 8613 | www.amalteaygovinda.com Mon-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8.30pm-11.30pm, Closed Sun
JuiCY JoneS – Vegan reStaurant 4RAVAL Spain’s only vegan restaurant, Juicy Jones never compromises on freshness or quality. They serve a range of Mediterranean and Indian cuisine with a funky ambience they also offer a large variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices and smoothies. Don’t be fooled by imitations. Go Juicy!
C/Rec Comtal, 15 | Metro Arc De Triomf, Tel. 93 295 5378 | www.nakashitabcn.com Mon-Sun 1.30pm-4.30pm, 8.30pm-12am
Carrer Hospital, 74 | Metro Liceu | Tel. 93 443 9082 | Every day 12pm-1am
Vietnamese
take-away PiM PaM Burger4BORN Here quality is of the upmost importance, making it the best burger and frankfurter take-away in town. Special hamburgers, chicken burgers, bratwurst, frankfurters, home-made chips and stroganoff are also available and are all prepared on the premises.
C/Sabateret 4 I Metro Jaume I Tel. 93 315 2093 burger@pimpamplats.com I www.pimpamburger.com Every day 1pm-12am
thai thai graCia4GRACIA Expect authentic ingredients all imported from Thailand and cooked by experienced Thai chefs. The Pad Thai and green and yellow curries have excellent subtle flavours. Simply delicious! The special tasting menu for 21 is a huge hit and allows you to try all the exotic dishes Thai Gracia has to offer. An affordable 11 menú del diá is available during the week. The warm hospitality and attention to detail to every dish at Thai Gracia will keep you coming back for more.
C/ Còrsega 381 | Metro Verdaguer / Girona Tel. 93 459 3591 | www.restaurante-thai-gracia.com Every day 1pm-4pm, 8pm-12am | RV
Food & drink sept 2011.indd 47
Bun Bo ViÊtnaM4BARRI GÒTIC Satisfy your craving for fresh, healthy Vietnamese food just steps away from the Gothic cathedral. Sit under the leafy trees of the quiet terrace or inside the restaurant which is entirely decorated with bright colourful pieces straight from Saigon. Start with delicious fresh summer rolls, crispy Asian pork lettuce cups, followed by traditional Pho or Bun noodle dishes. Accompany your meal with a fresh and exotic cocktail like the sakirinha (caipirinha made with sake). The menu of the day is an affordable 10 inside and 11 on the shady terrace. The kitchen is open non-stop all day.
C/Sagristans 3 | Metro Urquinaona | Tel. 93 301 1378 | www.bunbovietnam.com | Every day 1pm-1am
8/22/11 2:37:17 PM
44 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
HAIRDRESSER • MASSAGE
Business directory To advertise in this section, call:
93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com
See also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
KERATIN SMOOTHING TREATMENT Now available
Anthony Llobet English Hair Salon - HAIRDRESSER
Taller - HAIRDRESSER
Don’t let your Spanish come between you and your hair. Anglo-Catalan Anthony Llobet has over 20 years’ experience in hairstyling and a passion for excellent client service. Anthony leads a dedicated team of stylists who specialise in a variety of services, including Afro hair, extensions, straightening and make-up (and speak over 11 languages between them). The original retro interior and friendly staff create a very special atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy a stylish cut. Put your trust in Anthony and the team, who are strongly committed to providing you with outstanding service at affordable prices.
What sets apart an Aveda beauty professional? Their mission is to bring out their client’s natural beauty. Aveda partners with salon and spa professionals around the world. They see beauty as a craft and believe that authentic beauty is one that works in harmony with nature. Authentic beauty cares for the environment we inherited and that we’ll leave to the generations that follow us. Authentic beauty cares about society, creating harmony in the way we live and the way we interact with one another as human beings. Taller lives this mission to the full, offering gentle and natural hair and beauty treatments in a unique and beautiful space in the heart of the Born.
Gràcia, C/Ros de Olano 19 T. 93 218 0449 / 639 931 555 Raval, C/Sant Pau 122 T. 93 441 3177 / 645 257 506 Eixample, C/Córsega 364 T. 93 457 4211 / 691 330 188 El Born, C/Carders 34 T.93 295 4871 7 645 257 628 Gòtic, C/Avunyó 34 T. 93 301 4513 / 691 676 363 www.anthonyllobet.com
Pescateria 8, Born T. 93 315 0980 Metro: Barceloneta (L4) Open Mon 2pm-8pm; Tues-Sat 11am-8pm
La Hair Boutique -
HAIRDRESSER
Trained by Toni & Guy London, Veronique runs a friendly salon with a dedicated team who speak English, Spanish, French and Swedish. La Hair Boutique is a relaxed and cosy salon that offers progressive cuts and colours and great style advice too. They are especially talented at creating new, personalised looks using the latest techniques.
Plaça Regomir 5 Metro: Jaume 1 (L4). T. 93 269 1937 M. 699 643 462 www.hairboutiquebarcelona.com
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Kinki - HAIRDRESSER
Kinki peluqueros is an international hairstyling group from Holland with over 40 salons in their home country. They put their heart and soul into cutting and colouring the most beautiful hairstyles, from the latest trends to classic cuts. If you bring a friend for a full treatment they will give you both a 15% discount and a free glass of cava. English, Spanish, Dutch, German and French speaking. Pintor Fortuny 14, Raval Metro: Catalunya (L1, L3) T. 93 302 3379 www.kinkipeluqueros.es Open Mon 4pm-8pm, Tues-Fri 11am-9pm, Sat 10.30am-8pm
8/22/11 11:27:13 AM
BODYWORK · VETERINARY CLINIC · DOCTORS · DENTISTS · CHEMIST
Scissors of London -
BRITISH HAIRDRESSER Tim aspires to listen to your needs and suggests how they might be met in distinctive and exciting ways. Style is unique and Tim will craft you a look achieving a harmony of shape and style. Tim has been hairdressing for over 12 years. Having trained, taught and worked in London’s top salons including Tony & Guy and Vidal Sassoon. opting out of salon life, Tim works to fit in with the modern pace of life and offers a one to one service orientated around your needs. Carrer Viladomat 45-47, Atico M. 633 382 787 timbulmer@btinternet.com
Pharmacy Serra Mandri
CHEMIST
The helpful and qualified pharmaceutical staff at this wellknown Barcelona chemist can help and advise each client to ensure they get exactly what they need. They also stock a great range of products, including homeopathy, natural medicine, aromatherapy and organic cosmetics. The pharmacy is open 365 days a year and also offers a home delivery service.
The Vital Touch - MASSAGE Relax and de-stress with a therapeutic full-body massage. Nunu Roney at The Vital Touch offers treatments to help women and men relax, energise, re-balance and improve their health and lifestyle. Hot stone massage also available. Central Barcelona location. Book today and take advantage of a 10% discount for Metropolitan readers.
T. 659 995 657 nunu@thevitatouch.com www.tvtbarcelona.com
Bonavet - VETERINARY CLINIC Professional and friendly, the Bonavet veterinary clinic provides veterinary consultations, x-rays, analyses and surgery. They can also advise you on dietary requirements and they have a complete range of special food products, beds and toys to keep your pets healthy and happy. If you make an appointment you can even bring your pet down for a grooming session and trim.
Av. Diagonal 478 Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) Chemist T. 93 416 1270 Homeopathy T. 93 217 3249 Open every day 9am-10pm
Plaça Bonanova 10, 08022 T. 93 211 0204
Mary D. McCarthy - DoCToR
Dr. Steven Joseph - DoCToR
Feel confident with Dr. Mary McCarthy, an American-trained doctor for adults. A native English speaker with over 20 years’ experience in Barcelona, Dr. McCarthy offers professional, private health care. She is a member of the American College of Physicians and is also certified as a Specialist by the American Board of Internal Medicine.
Established in 2005, Googol Medical Centre offers its patients comprehensive healthcare in a friendly, discreet and relaxed environment. UK doctor Steven Joseph provides a wide range of medical care for the English-speaking community in Barcelona.
Aribau 215 Pral. 1a T. 93 200 2924 M. 607 220 040 FGC Diagonal or Gràcia
MP 44-49 sept.indd 45
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 45
Gran Via Carles III nº-37-39 Metro: Les Corts (L3) T. 93 330 2412 M. 627 669 524 googol@hotmail.es www.googolmedicalcentre.com Open Mon-Sat
Dr. Christian Eickhoff deutsche zk - DENTIST
Tingsvall & McCarthy
Highly recommended among the international community uses the latest in dental technology like digital prothetics and orthodontics. The whole german team is English speaking and the doctor has an american training in implantology and orthodontics. Check-ups and X-rays are free. Centrally located
Dr. Stefan Tingsvall offers general dentistry, orthodontics, prosthodontics and endodontics, whilst Elena McCarthy is a qualified dental hygienist and specialises in comprehensive preventative care and tooth whitening Bright Smile. Together, they aim to provide a relaxing and pleasant experience for the patient.
Consell de Cent 249, bajos Metro Universitat (L1/L2) T. 93 323 9629 info@deutsche-zk.com
Castellnou 47 T. 93 205 1903 M. 636 312 522/696 664 430 FGC Les Tres Torres (L6) Bus: 16, 30, 66, 70, 72, 74 tingsvall.mccarthy@gmail.com www.tingsvall-mccarthy.com Open Mon-Sat
- DENTIST
8/22/11 11:27:15 AM
46 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
DENTISTS · CHIROPRACTOR · LIFE COACH · PSYCHOLOGISTS
Dra. Susana Campi - DENTIST
Coach Bing - LIFE COACHING
For all your dental needs, a team consisting of our first-class professionals can offer you excellent treatment. We have more than 30 years of experience and are pleased to offer you our services in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and Catalan.
Kick-start your life with coaching and create positive change in your personal and professional life. An expat life coach is an excellent support, and especially helpful in a newly adopted country. Coach Bing is a member of the International Coach Federation.
Rosselló 95, local, 08029, Barcelona Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5) Entença (L5) T. 93 322 9114 Fax. 93 322 0220 campi@coec.net
T. 93 811 2227 M. 656 932 468 bingkohner@limitbusters.net www.limitbusters.com
American Chiropractic Center - Doctors of Chiropractic
Isabel Solanich - LIFE COACH / COUNSELLOR
Do you suffer from problems such as lower back pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches, shoulder and articular pain, discal hernia, fibromyalgia, or stress? Dr Chiappinelli and his team pride themselves on providing friendly and professional chiropractic care, with the clear aim of improving the patient’s health. The clinics, located in Barcelona and Sitges, have individual treatment rooms which are equipped with the most up-to-date and innovative technology. Dr. Chiappinelli and his team qualified from the top American and French universities and have worked for 20 years to ensure and provide an unbeatable service. They speak English, French, German and Italian. Make an appointment at either of the clinics and let the team help you to reach your maximum health potential.
As a trained life coach, counsellor and reiki master, Isabel will help you to change situations you don’t like in your life. Isabel can help and guide you to take control of your emotions to achieve personal satisfaction. Face to face, by telephone or via Skype.
Barcelona: Pau Claris, 139 3o 2a T. 93 487 5035 Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L3, L5) Sitges: Rafael Llopart 74, T. 93 811 0101 www.bcnchiro.com
Nick Cross - PSYCHOLOGIST -PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Nick Cross is a registered psychologist, specialised in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can help you with the causes of distress and unhappiness and it provides treatment for anxiety, fears, relationship difficulties, depression, problems adjusting, loss and trauma.
T. 644 193 825 ncross@copc.es
MP 44-49 sept.indd 46
T. 676 698 529 consulta@tubienestarpersonal.com www.yourpersonalwellbeing.com
Hestia - PSYCHOTHERAPY The Hestia International Centre of Psychotherapy has become a reference in the city. The professional team work with individuals, couples and families through psychotherapy, coaching, counselling, clinical hypnosis, art therapy, NLP and EMDR. They speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, German, Portuguese and Greek and the first consultation is free.
Passeig Sant Joan 180 Pral 2a Metro: Joanic (L4) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es
8/22/11 11:27:16 AM
PSYCHOLOGISTS · CONSTRUCTION · INTERIOR DESIGN · SECURITY · MOPED RENTALS
Eugenia Espinosa PSYCHOTHERAPY
Eugenia is a dedicated professional who specialises in psychological issues related to immigration. She offers effective treatment for mood and anxiety disorders as well as couples and family therapy. The first consultation with Eugenia is free.
Network of English Speaking Therapists Established since 2000
- Psychotherapist
Jonathan Hooker can help if you’re looking for support, guidance or help with any aspect of your life. An English-speaking psychotherapist, counsellor, coach and guide, he is dedicated to helping people make sense of their lives. Jonathan provides one-to-one sessions or workshops for groups of four to 12 people. Metropolitan readers are invited to a free 20-minute introductory meeting.
T. 93 590 7654 M.639 579 646 jonathan.hooker@yahoo.com www.jonathanhooker.com
NEST - PSYCHOLOGISTS
Inysi - CONSTRUCTION
NEST is a dedicated team of Englishspeaking therapists who provide professional services to individuals, families, schools and companies. They include highly-qualified, licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and educational specialists who live and work in Barcelona and offer their outstanding services to the Englishspeaking community in the city. For more details of our practitioners, visit our website or see our advertisement in the main pages.
The Inysi Industrial team are professionals in plumbing and electrical services, air conditioning and satellite installation. Providing services for over 60 years to households and companies, no job is too big or too small for them. If you’re looking for someone reliable that you can trust, then get in touch today.
Alcolea 42, Bajos Metro: Plaça de Sants (L1, L5) T. 657 994 630
tProject - CONSTRUCTION
Graham Collins -
Looking for help without the worry of getting lost in translation? This experienced team of builders provide a range of services, including renovations, bespoke carpentry, kitchens and bathrooms, decoration, shopfitting, electrical installations, IT networks, satellite TV, architectural services and exhibition stands. Get in touch with tProject for an obligationfree quote.
Graham Collins is an experienced interior designer and property consultant and can help with everything concerning property, design and decoration. So, whether you need help working out the property market or are looking for someone to renovate your home, Graham is here to help you.
Manuel Isaías López, MD, PhD Claudia Ros Tusquets MA Clinical Psychologist Child and Adolescent Contact: John Steven Thorp Psychiatrist & Psychoanalyst & Psychotherapist 93 460 7803 M. 691 664 806 934 102 962T./ 657 570 692 686 991 742 john@tproject.eu
www.barcelonanest.com
MP 44-49 sept.indd 47
Jonathan Lane Hooker
T. 677 090 479 genaespinosa@yahoo.com
www.barcelonanest.com
All NEST professionals are Licensed / Certified
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 47
English - Spanish - Catalan - Dutch - German - Italian
Interior Design
Consolat del Mar 35, 3er Metro: Barceloneta (L4) T. 678 757 511 grahamcollins@talk21.com
Locksmith - SECURITY
Via Vespa - MOPED RENTALS
Experts in security, Mastercerrajeros can help you keep your property secure. From a simple lock change to metal shutters, safety doors or installing the most advanced security system on the market, they will ensure you get the security solution you need. Their service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Explore Barcelona in style with Via Vespa. Rent a new and automatic Italian Vespa LX 50 and go from the beach to the hills, dive into the city centre and find your way through the charming little streets of Barcelona. Rent your vespa by the hour or take a tour with friends. The coolest way to see the city.
T. 607 886 622 info@mastercerrajeros.com
Princesa 56 T. 93 319 6754 M. 656 860 471 barcelona@via-vespa.com www.via-vespa.com
8/22/11 11:27:17 AM
48 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
REMOVALS · LANGUAGE SCHOOLS
Corase - REMoVALS
Van - REMoVALS
Corase specialise in international removals and have a worldwide network of agents. You can trust them with any type of move, big or small. Their staff are attentive to each client’s needs and are trained to ensure that you get quality, speed and security. Corase also offer a range of other services, including storage facilities. They will be happy to give you a free quote.
VanBCN offers experience, good service and inexpensive rates to make your move or removal safe and easy. Whether you are looking for man with a van for a quick move or if you want to do a complete removal, just call or send your request online. VanBCN adapts its service to your needs. They can pick up your stuff or take it to the port, airport or storage. Deliver home your purchases from IKEA or any other shop. Move your office, your room or your house. Just contact VanBCN. They know how to do it.
Av. Diagonal 249 Metro: Monumental (L2) T. 900 702 270 (free) info@mudanzascorase.es www.mudanzascorase.es
Spanish for foreigners
T. 93 426 7684 M. 647 533 344 www.vanbcn.com
Versión Original -
BCN L.I.P. - LANGUAGE SCHooL
The experienced teachers at Versión original are thrilled to share their enthusiasm for the Spanish language and culture. This small city centre school, with classes of no more than 10 students, is devoted to languages, especially Spanish. There’s a great atmosphere here and a 5% discount for Metropolitan readers.
BCN L.I.P. Languages is a small school with a warm and welcoming atmosphere in Barcelona’s old town. They offer both intensive and extensive courses and it’s the perfect place to ensure success in your language immersion. The centre is equipped with the most advanced facilities to enable you to succeed in your chosen language.
Gran Via 636, 1o 1a A Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4) T. 93 412 4576 info@versionoriginalbcn.com www.versionoriginalbcn.com
T. 93 318 6591 info@bcnlip.com www.bcnlip.com
LANGUAGE SCHooL
Bindung - LANGUAGE SCHooL
Centros de Estudio de Español - LANGUAGE SCHooL
Learn Spanish with them in Barcelona, it’s easy! There are new courses starting every month and you can choose between 10, 20 or 30 hours a week in the morning or afternoon. The school promises small groups, and conversational or business classes are also available. They have over 50 years experience and guarantee the best teaching quality to achieve successful results. Those at Bindung consider themselves to be a leading reference for any cultural, entrepreneurial or formative action between cultures. one of their main purposes is to create a meeting space to encourage Spanish learning and facilitate communication between cultures. Their courses aim to train students to achieve a good command of Spanish by focusing on reading, listening, writing and speaking.
Learn Spanish with Centros de Estudio de Español from just €95! The centre prides itself on being a school of excellence, dedicated to helping every student in their quest to learn Spanish. They offer many programmes, such as small groups, evening classes or intensive programmes, built to ensure that every student achieves their potential. The classes are available for all levels, so whether you are a complete beginner or would like to top up your Spanish, the CEE will have what you’re looking for. They also offer DELE exam preparation and courses in many other languages. Registration is free with this ad!
Ausiàs March 26 Metro: Urquinaona (L1) T. 93 311 5824 info@bindungbarcelona.com
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CEE, Roger de Llúria 123 (Provença) Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) or Verdaguer (L5) T. 93 488 0080 info@cursos.org www.cursos.org
8/22/11 11:27:19 AM
LANGUAGE SCHOOLS · CREATIVE ACTIVITIES
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 49
BCN Metropol - LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Speakeasy - LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Study Spanish in one of Spain’s most established and prestigious language schools. Since 1982 Metropol have provided high-quality language training to students of all nationalities. The school is right in the heart of Barcelona city centre and it’s a great place to learn or improve your Spanish. It’s a popular and specialised school, with more than 27 years of experience and they offer great value Spanish courses for all levels. In order for every student to have the best experience possible, the qualified teachers use the Prisma method which is recognised by the Instituto Cervantes. The material is modern and effective for small groups and there is also free internet access. Metropol promises high quality at low prices and registration is free with this ad.
Right in the heart of Barcelona, Speakeasy Language School offers highquality intensive Spanish courses at attractive prices. Founded in 2001, Speakeasy is committed to being one of the best Spanish language schools in Spain. A quality service is guaranteed with a combined staff of Spanish and foreign internationals. Students come from all over the world and there are never more than 10 students in each group. Speakeasy has modern AV equipment available to aid learning and also spacious, air-conditioned classrooms. The highly-qualified and experienced teachers, together with the excellent course plan, are the keys to their success and the reason why more than 99% of their students recommend Speakeasy.
Pau Claris 87, 1o1a Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4) T. 93 301 8241 www.bcnmetropol.com
Ronda Universitat 7, 1o 3a Metro: Universitat (L1, L2) T. 93 342 7197 www.speakeasybcn.com
One-to-One -
Kingsbrook - LANGUAGE
Learn exactly what you need with one-to-one Spanish classes in the office or at home. Focus your classes on the language and vocabulary that best serves you according to your own personal or professional needs. Business Spanish and small group classes are also available. Get confident in Spanish with Pilar.
Kingsbrook have been helping people learn Spanish in a simple, pleasant and fun way since 1985. The school is located in the heart of Barcelona and has a team of experienced and dedicated staff. In order to create an optimal learning environment, the school ensures that classes have only between 7-10 students.
T. 610 057 266
Trav. de Gràcia 60 Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) T. 93 209 3763 info@kingsbrookbcn.com www.kingsbrookbcn.com
SPANISH CLASSES
SCHOOL
Languages4Life -
LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Languages4Life is a small school in a charming building in the heart of Eixample. Our teaching method is visual and intuitive thanks to our interactive classrooms which have tactile whiteboards and internet. We have inspirational native teachers who have experience in language instruction. Access to internet on Macs or via WiFi. València 275 3o Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4) T. 93 487 5116 learn@languages4life.com Skype languages4life
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To advertise in our business directory call:
93 451 4486
email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com See also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
8/22/11 11:27:21 AM
50 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
PIANO CLASSES · CREATIVE ACTIVITIES · DESIGN · COMPUTERS · TELEVISION SERVICE
Collage - CREATIVE ACTIVITIES
Libby Barnes -
PIANO LESSONS
Collage was founded in 2005 as a multi-disciplinary learning centre. Collage is an art, language and dance education centre, dedicated to handson learning and individual expression for people of all ages. Programmes include private or group language, dance and art classes. They also provide a cultural meeting point for community events and celebrations.
Ever dreamed of playing the piano? Now you can, with enthusiastic teacher Libby Barnes. Libby has over 15 years’ experience and can teach a variety of styles, including classical, jazz, blues and rock. Everybody from complete beginners to the advanced can improve with every session. It is never too late to learn, and Libby’s classes are available to all ages, at all levels.
T. 679 796 281 barnes.libby@hotmail.com
Gràcia T. 93 284 6520 collagebarcelona@gmail.com www.collagebarcelona.com
Mrs.Q design studio -
Geo Mac - COMPUTERS
GRAPHIC DESIGN
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.
Need a logo, brochure or poster? Mrs.Q design studio can design it for you. They work in partnership with their clients to ensure that their visions can be expanded upon to create a unique solution. Mrs.Q design studio has a fresh and creative outlook on every project. Whether you want branding, tailor made wedding invitations or advertising—let them come up with a visionary original design.
T. 606 308 932 machelp@geomac.es
T. 699 260 938 mrsqdesignstudio@gmail.com
BritSat - TELEVISION SERVICE
Smartsat - TELEVISION SERVICE
BritSat offer great television packages so you’ll never have to miss your favourite TV programmes again. Craving a bit of classic comedy, your favourite soap or just fed up of feeling out of the loop of the best TV at home? BritSat will install the full package you choose for a great price. Take your pick from some of the best television in Europe as they install British, Dutch, German, Italian and French satellite TV. The team will create tailor-made installations to suit your requirements, always aiming to find the most discreet location for the dish and cables. BritSat provides excellent customer care and can also incorporate sound systems and multi-screen viewing.
Want to watch UK television? Smartsat was set up in 2002 to offer people living in Spain the choice of watching their favourite UK TV channels including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Five and the entire FreeSat platform. They have since gone from strength to strength and have installed systems for hundreds of satisfied customers. They’ll build a package perfect for you, whether it’s an individual satellite installation for your home, or multiple installations for offices. Based in Barcelona, the team can go to homes and businesses across Catalunya. Choose from a variety of packages including Standard, Plus (integrated hard drive) and Plus HD (High Definition). A full after-sales service is available and all of the equipment provided is guaranteed. Get in contact with Smartsat today, for all of your satellite needs.
T. 649 605 917 info@britsatlive.com www.britsatlive.com
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T. 610 092 848 tv@smartsat.tv www.smartsat.tv
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TELEVISION SERVICE · TELEPHONE SERVICE · TAX & ACCOUNTING SERVICES · LEGAL PRACTICE
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 51 Easi-Sat - TELEVISION SERVICE Easi-Sat are specialists in satellite TV, HD and audio-visual installations and are unmatched for quality and reliability. The professional team provides satellite television from across Europe and a personal, efficient and friendly service. Contact them now for a free quote and special offers.
T. 93 845 9874 M. 649 413 832 enquiries@easisat.net www.easisat.net
Europa Digital - TELEVISION SERVICE Tired of being out the loop on the best documentaries or are you a secret soap fan? Or, maybe you’re just missing your favourite television programmes from home. There’s no need to miss out anymore—now you can see all of your favourite channels here in Barcelona! Europa Digital are licensed and fully insured to install all satellite systems, including a whole range of channels from BBC HD, Freesat, itv hd, Sky, Sky 3d, Sky Sports and many more. They can also supply all European systems and viewing cards. They were the first company to start operating in Catalunya and, as well as private installations, they have worked for hotel groups and put multi-systems in apartment blocks.The experienced and professional team give friendly advice to ensure that you receive the best package to suit your needs. They are the only company of their kind with a registered office and a 24-hour helpline. Visit their showroom before you buy or call them now for a free quotation. They are fully licensed and insured. Floridablanca 78 Metro: Sant Antoni (L2) T. 93 325 1797 M. 666 556 452 Sant Josep, 32, Sitges T.93 894 72 99 www.europadigital.tv admin@europadigital.tv
Tax & Accounting -
Freespeech TELEPHONE SERVICE Freespeech offers the solution to expensive overseas calls. Their great prices allow you to ring internationally at the same price as to anybody in Spain. In just three easy steps you can call home for the cost of a local call. 1) Dial local number 640 199 975. 2) Call the international number (00 + country code + number). 3) Talk!
www.freespeech.es
Gabinet Jurídic Tessal -
Tax & Accounting services
LEGAL PRACTICE
Qualified UK accountant with 25 years experience in Spain offers: · Tax services for freelance ‘autónomos’ & companies · Income tax returns for employees & non-residents · Registration of ‘autónomos’ & company incorporation (SL) · Practical advice on setting up a business in Spain · Fast, reliable email service
Founded in 1983, Gabinet Jurídic Tessal is made up of a small team of highly-qualified professionals. They can help with all types of law including property, construction, accident, damages, family and immigration. They are also experts in business law for accounting services, taxes and social security. They can discuss your legal matters in English and French. Ask for Esther Maya.
Call David Cook (34) 678 702 369 Visit www.spainaccounting.com Email info@spainaccounting.com
Perú 40-44, Escala 2, 2ºA Metro: Glòries (L1) T. 93 486 9451 F. 93 486 9452 emaya@tessal.com www.tessal.com
Sánchez Molina -
LEGAL PRACTICE
The lawyers at Sanchez Molina speak English, Spanish, Italian and French. They can help with your business licensing services, legal defence and representation, registration under any form of ownership, accounting services and work and residency permits.
Gran Via Carles III, 84, 5 Metro: Maria Cristina (L3) T. 93 490 9669 javiergarcia@sanchezmolina.com www.sanchezmolina.com
MP 50-52 sept.indd 51
To advertise in our business directory call:
93 451 4486
email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com See also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
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52 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
LEGAL PRACTICE · INSURANCE · FINANCIAL ADVICE · FINANCIAL COACHING
Legal Practice A&E -
INSURANCE
- Foreign trade (Export/Import) - Transport Law - Commercial/Civil law: contracts, lease... - Insurance law and professional liability - Legal defence (Litigation and arbitration) - International merges - Wills - Administrative We speak English.
An expert in the insurance field, Dagmar Schittenhelm provides his services to many satisfied customers in German or English. Contact Dagmar if you’re looking for free, professional insurance advice with no obligation. Dagmar is a member of the prestigious Grupo Catalana Occidente.
Passeig de Gràcia 118, ppal, 08008 T. 93 125 8799 info-bcn@lawyer.com
T. 93 630 2190 / 93 630 1637 Afternoon T. 93 371 3868 M. 617 320 323 d.schittenhelm@terra.es
Hyperien - INSURANCE
Green Bean Coaching
Hyperien Insurance is an agency that specifically caters to European expatriates living in Spain. We are committed to providing a fast, efficient and friendly customer service and can provide for all your insurance needs including car, house, medical, pet and travel cover. We can produce a competitive quotation quickly over the telephone or via email. Contact us now to see how we compare with your current insurance provider and relax, we’ve got it covered.
Green Bean coaches entrepreneurs and business owners proven business techniques that have helped thousands of businesses boost their sales, increase profits, and hit their business goals. We will guide you to implement the strategies you need to move to the next business level. Call us for a noobligation chat to learn more. Or visit our website to receive our Free Emini Series – Your Road Map To Business Success.
T. 95 289 5216 www.hyperien.net
The Spectrum IFA Group - FINANCIAL ADVICE The Spectrum IFA Group creates and provides financial planning solutions for expatriates and foreign residents. Our experienced and qualified team in Barcelona can help you with all aspects of finance including: • Pensions/ Retirement Planning • Savings & Investments • Life Cover • Health Insurance • Currency Exchange • Mortgages • Tax Planning • Asset Management We are regulated financial planners with offices in seven European countries, dedicated to providing the best advice and solution for each individual client. Please email or call us to arrange an initial, no obligation introductory meeting. Paseo de Gràcia 63, Principal 2A T. 93 665 8596 barcelona@spectrum-ifa.com
MP 50-52 sept.indd 52
Grupo Catalana Occidente -
LEGAL PRACTICE
BUSINESS Coaching
T. 93 268 9544 M. 693 940 701 explore@freegreenbeans.com www.freegreenbeans.com
To advertise in our business directory call: 93 451 4486 email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com See also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
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Job directory To advertise in this section, call:
93 451 4486 or email: ads@barcelona-metropolitan.com
See also our online directory at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
SALES PROFESSIONAL
Nordic SaleS PeoPle WaNted! Do you want to work in a positive environment with a great salary anD unlimiteD possibilities?
We are currently expanding our Scandinavian sales department and are looking for highly motivated sales people. You don’t have to be experienced in the sales field but you have to have the right attitude and a desire to become a good sales person. You have to be fluent in one of the following languages: Swedish, Norwegian, Danish or Finnish.
zer of Executive such as London
we sell marketing to the scandinavian market and only contact companies. office hours 8:30-16:00. we offer a high fixed salary and great comission + bonuses. please send your Cv to info@jenandcompany.com or call 687 77 2912
d unprecedentinterviewing for a client base by cultivating and
ness sales or are way we can ase you fast track well as overseas
Company specialising in property sales and rentals to foreign executives needs a new SALES PROFESSIONAL for their rental department. We need a sales person with negotiation and commercial experience and good communication skills. The candidate should have good knowledge of different Barcelona neighbourhoods, PC experience and is able to travel around the city by motorbike. If you want to work in a nice atmosphere, are fluent in other languages, are a dynamic and responsible person and looking for a stable job then send your CV to info@mrbdcn.com or call 669 40 70 50.
Corporate Sports Sales Executive a marcus evans company
(Barcelona /Madrid/ Brazil)
Do you want to attend the Brazilian World Cup? With 55 global locations, THG/SMG is the world largest organizer of Executive Sports Entertainment at more than 350 major sporting events such as London 2012, Brazil WSC 2014, Champion’s league...
the op-
esting career
Continu-
Due to our future openings of our Latin American Offices and and unprecedented growth in both of our Barcelona and Madrid offices, we are interviewing for Bilingual Sales Executive that will be responsible for building a client base by contacting exclusively top level decisions makers, in addition to cultivating and maintaining long term relationships with them. You may already have 1-2 years experience in business-to-business sales or are looking for your first corporate role following graduation. Either way we can assure you the very best in training and development that will give you fast track promotion and unlimited earnings within the first 12 months as well as overseas posting.
You must possess:
Our commitment to you:
► A burning desire to work within sales. ► A strong determination to succeed. ► An ability to work both on your own and within a team. ► The drive to work beyond the traditional 9-5 in a challenging role. ► Fluency in English while other languages are a plus
► The opportunity to work for a fast pace, inspiring company ► Interesting career opportunities within our 55 worldwide offices ► Continual internal training and development. ► Unlimited earning opportunities (OTE 40k-80K)
Please send a covering letter and C.V in English to alexp@thguk.com and mention ref/Metro
thg_job_ad_JUNE2011.indd 1 MP 53-55 sept.indd 53
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54 EMPLOYMENT
ACS is hiring F&A Transition Project Analysts & Project Managers We are seeking Transition Project Analysts and Project Managers for very exciting roles in ACS, a Xerox Company, Barcelona. If you have a Bachelors degree in Finance or related studies with 3+ years of experience in Finance & Accountancy role, and want to work on the delivery of international projects, contact us today! Fluency in English and another European language is essential. 3-5 years experience working on large scale projects including F&A transitions, Management Consulting or BPO projects is required for the Project Management role. Junior Accountants Do you have a degree in Administration/Economics and want to develop your career in Finance & Accounting? We are seeking several Junior Accountants with a good command of English and other European languages. French/Italian/German/Dutch speakers are highly sought after! Customer Care Agents Do you have a strong grasp of European languages and want to work in an international environment? We are seeking several Customer Care Agents who will be responsible for dealing with customers around the world and investigating issues and communicating the appropriate options for resolution. Good command of English and other European languages required. French/Italian/German/Dutch speakers are highly sought after! HR Administrators Do you have experience in customer service and good communication skills as well an interest in Human Resources? At ACS, a Xerox Company, as an HR Administrator, you will work for one of our major clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; providing advice on HR legislation regarding payroll, leave, pensions and other HR areas. A University degree in HR or related professional experience is required, fluency in English and ideally another European language. Interested candidates can apply online at www.acs-inc.com/careeropportunities.aspx or send their details via email to Recruitment.EMEA@acs-inc.com
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EMPLOYMENT 55
MP 53-55 sept.indd 55
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A selection of the latest classified ads you can see on our website now For Sale: Vehicles/boats Swiss owned Sea RAY RAY, 500 sundancer for sale! 1998 Sea RAY RAY for sale. Call as soon as possible for more information! this boat is a must and indespencible for any fishing trip you might embark on!!. The 3196 CATs were rebuilt and updated at 500 hours by Pantropic, a Caterpillar Dealer. The CATs have a total of just over 1,000 hours and approximately 500 hours since major overhaul. Eur 300k ONO. Contact: Johnny 674669807. 2004 Hyundai GETZ 1.3 AUTOMATIC, 5 doors GLS. 2004 Hyundai Getz 1.3, GLS, hatchback. LIKE NEW! 4 cylinder, automatic, power steering, power brakes, garage kept, owned by a nonsmoking woman, meticulously maintained, have all records, 84000km, perfect condition inside and out, never hit or repaired, low fuel consumption. New brakes & battery, silver blue with grey interior. Looks great. 3950 eur. Call Edward: 610211239 or Email: utbacon@tresnet.com, ppsfan@gmail. com Thank you!
Others Bored in august? buy books and read,share them with friends... books for all the tastes: chopra, hellinger, weiss, krisnamurti, robin norwood, coelho, bucay, steiner, goethe, frankl...... due to lack of space: english and/or spanish self-help and psychology books are being sold: 5eu each. books are in perfect conditions. mornings only! cell.: 609.731600 (or leave your msg)
Household goods FOR SALE - TV (BLUETECH) 19” LCD MOVING! I’m moving out of Spain and I have a TV (BLUETECH) 19” LCD for sale. Screen:47cm, Resolution:1366 x 768, TDT, PVR, TNT, DVB-T, USB port, HDMI, High Def.. Brand new! Only 3 months of use! I have purchase ticket, TV still has it’s box and plastics, still in guarantee! PRICE: 100€ More info --->> ADRIANA 647.490.322 // ileana2033@yahoo.es
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Outstanding OFFICE / STUDIO for rent/ sale on a quiet street in the city centre A beautifully renovated local with original rustic features available in the Ribera district. It measures 92m² (constructed meters). Located on St. Pere Mitja Street, near the Palau de la Musica. An ideal office, studio or artist’s showroom. The local was previously a metal workshop and a meticulous renovation was recently completed, preserving original features such as wooden beams, stone walls, 170 year-old large wooden doors and the original sinks from the taller. Additional ventilation has been added to accommodate artists. For rent: 1-5 year rental contract. 990 € per month + IVA/water/electricity. 3 months deposit and 1 month agent fee. For sale: 349,999 € Please contact local.st.pere@gmail.com.
Wanted Choir Ariadna looking for voices Choir Ariadna is looking for new soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices. Mondays 20:30-23:00h. Muntaner 544-Bcn moe327@yahoo.com-www. agrupaciocormadrigal.org/ariadna/
Classes Languages Hola...Barcelona Spanish class native spanish teacher. Spanish lessons private + flexible + fast conversation + grammar + vocabulary private classes available for individuals, maximum two students (at the same level). classes in the teacher s place or at student s home/ office. all levels available ! i am a spanish native speaker from argentina who has been living for 10 years in spain. i am flexible and dynamic. i guarantee that you will improve your spanish fast! i have a certificate of spanish teacher. if you are interested in improving/learning. contact, spanishteacher1791(AT)yahoo.es.
Pets Bit, an adult female cat waiting for a home! Bit is a female cat who is sixteen years
old. After spending her life in a home, now her owner must go to a residence, and her children cannot take care of Bit, and the only one who loves Bit has a strong allergy. Life is so sad! Now she is old and nobody wants her! Bit is now in a foster home but there is another cat who is very territorial and she doesn’t want to share the “sofa”. She needs a definitive home where she can live her last years and be loved a lot. She is sweet and friendly. She is very healthy and she is neutered. At the beginning she is a little bit scared, but actually she only wants to be loved and cuddled. She has all her stuff, you won’t need to buy anything. If you are interested in Bit, you can contact as at aleva.gatigos@gmail.com.
Accommodation We rent double room near the Plaza Catalunya in the centre for 4 months for 2 persons for 400 euros. It will be from november till the end of february !!! Hello !!! We are renting 1 double room in 2 rooms flat in the centre in Barcelona. It is on the Plaza de la Vila de Madrid. It is square where is the Decathlon shop, maybe 1 minute from Plaza Catalunya. In the flat is living 1 boy. Me and my girlfriend we are going to study outside from Barcelona for four months. It will be from november till the end of february. The price is 400 euros for month plus the bills. In the flat there is nice kitchen with bar, oven. There is cell phone and internet, toilet. Nice view from the room to the square, there are 2 balconys... Contact JAN 0034 686 016 607 ianecrut@yahoo.com. Rent floor I rent nice very well located floor (80m2) 650 € To only 5 minutes walking of the station of meter Gorg L2, (15 minutes square univeritat). To only 5 minutes covering beach Badalona. Three rooms, a bath, kitchen, dining room, balcony. Francesc: 609309959 / francesc@francescmarty .com. Double Room To Rent (400 inclusive of bills) in lovely apartment Great Double Room to let sharing with just one other gay guy in large 98m2 quiet apartment in Sant Antoni. Located between Poble Sec (green
line) and Rocofort (red line) metro stations. Top floor apt. Washing machine/Microwave/TV etc etc. Must have the ability to clean and be pretty chilled out. Double balcony of living room and also one main bathroom plus second smaller bathroom with toilet and washbasin. Located 10mins walk from centre. Able to speak english and love animals as I have a small friendly dog and a cat also! To start beginning of Sept. 400 euros per month all inclusive of bills including wifi plus one months deposit. Contact Mark: 689 542 390. Big Room for Rent Double room at Sagrada Familia for days or months. The room is fully furnished with sofa bed, closet, dresser, and study desk. The apartment is located in building with a new elevator. The area is the Sagrada Familia / Gracia. And it is very well served by public transport. Sagrada Familia Metro 3 blocks and buses 45, 47, 15, 20, only a few meters. The flat is located in the Carrer Sardenya between Carrer Industria and Carrer Maria Claret. The apartment is very bright, so most of the time we do not need heating in winter and one can have sun bath at the living room. The neighbours are older people what makes the building very quiet and perfect for studying. From the balcony one can see the sun bath terrace of the Gym DIR Maria Claret which is located only a few meters away. We seek a person to share an apartment because we will be travelling a lot and need someone to help us take care for the floor. To schedule a visit or for more information call Mateus Contact Info Tel: 627 185 463 E-mail: mateus. bcn@gmail.com Blog http://roomforrentbcn.blogspot.com/ Facebook http://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=164751075. Rooms to rent in large, luxurious apartment in Sitges I have one or two bedrooms to rent plus share of huge apartment in Sitges with three balconies, pool, gardens, wi-fi, 50 inch plasma tv, video security etc. Full info with pic available, Tel Paul 663801325 or email pjoinspain@ hotmail.com.
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58 BACK PAGE
Fluorescent four-letter words
F
or some it was the ideal profession—fresh air, exercise, flexible hours, the chance to move around and meet people. For others, it was rigid hell—lumbered with a heavy load, out in all weathers, ignored, or worse, ridiculed. Carrying a sandwich board was like being a postman, but with less chance of getting away from aggressive dogs with your ankles intact. Open to professionals and freelance amateurs alike, it was a forerunner of Twitter, with marginally more characters but less instant or improvised. So when you paint your message, you’re probably going to think about it more carefully than if you just have to tap a few keys and hit ‘send’. The rules are otherwise similar. Don’t sandwich board when you’re drunk, for example. Both formats also share a suitability for the ramblings and conspiracy theories of loons. The difference being that with a sandwich board, you can see the face of the loon in question, lugging his doom-laden prophecies around town, in much the same way that Twitter users can post a photograph. However, with the sandwich board loon, short of a false moustache, there’s little chance that they will doctor the image or post a fraudulent one, so you know who you’re really talking to. Plus you can remonstrate more easily when the loon is standing there holding his message. A loon with a sandwich board is going to face up to questioning because he is not only
HOROSCOPE
philosophically attached to his message but also physically attached to it. Escape from a lengthy discussion about whether the end of the world is indeed nigh, and therefore whether you need to repent your sins or not, is thus less likely. Twitter hasn’t completely supplanted the sandwich board, though. There is still a demand for portable, local message systems that require a human carrier. It’s just that it has metamorphosed from the cumbersome indignities of wooden panels to the blissfully light and portable pleasures of the fluorescent waistcoat. Traditionalists might bemoan the change, regretting the loss of craftsmanship and skill required to build and adorn the old-style board, and scorning its cheap and flimsy synthetic successor. Those traditionalists have probably never tried dragging a sandwich board home on the bus. At the end of the working day, the modern ambulant advertiser can roll his—and now her—gilet up, put it in a pocket and get on with saving the world. The evolution from board to waistcoat wasn’t entirely seamless, with a brief foray into signs on poles—the platypus of the signage evolution: ungainly, improbable and rarely seen. What it shared with the waistcoat was its limited message. Often just one word, and usually ‘Golf ’ or ‘Leather’ or ‘Sale’. Particularly eloquent examples sometimes combined two of these words. Though not usually ‘Leather’ with ‘Golf ’.
So what the waistcoat offers in portability, it has lost in articulacy. It’s hard to warn that the end is nigh—and impossible to elucidate with Biblical references—in the limited space of the waistcoat, even an XXL on the back of a proportionately-wide wearer, and anyway, doom-mongers tend to be gaunt and ascetic, rather than fat and fun-loving. Even the word ‘Leather’ is quite tricky unless it’s in small print, which rather defeats the object. Instead the current favourites are ‘Tapas’ and ‘Gold’—or ‘Oro’, which at three letters is even better. The trouble with fluorescent waistcoats is they are more commonly associated with construction workers, parking attendants and broken-down cars. They conjure up images of dusty clothes and dirty fingernails. Not really what you want with your tapas. They might grab your attention, but they dampen your enthusiasm. To pre-empt this ambivalence, these particular ambulant advertisers also hand out flyers which enlarge on their curt message with a list of tapas. Unfortunately, they are listed under the bold heading ‘Tapa’s’, which suggests they are aiming at an Anglophone clientele. Perhaps they think the English are less particular about builders and mechanics making their tapas. Or are more susceptible to a man in a bright waistcoat. Either way, it doesn’t reflect well, fluorescent or otherwise.
by Nuria Picola
--Roger de Flower
www.nuriapicola.com
Aries You are close to realising your dreams, which will become a tangible reality, especially in the area of work. In the meantime, you may be occupied with bothersome job issues.
Taurus If you’re looking for
Gemini If you haven’t been on holiday yet, it’s a good idea to go now. We all need these breaks in life. On a professional level, nothing important is happening, so try to enjoy life.
Cancer You are dynamic and charismatic; you want things done your way and generally manage it, but this will change soon. Project a successful image and opportunities will appear.
Leo Life is slower than usual, and the world seems to turn faster. If you have anything pending with public entities, try to sort it out now, as it will be favourable to you.
Virgo Congratulations! It’s your
Libra Many drastic financial changes continue. This is for the long-term, but at least now you have clarity and direction. Although you are very sociable, now you need more silence.
Scorpio You have a lot of work and social contacts are important and useful. Technology is at your service and will be very important at work; keep up with new developments.
Sagittarius It’s the moment
Capricorn This month you need
Aquarius Everything that seemed slow at work—even your bosses seemed indecisive—now starts moving, and everything gains clarity. Have patience with your superiors.
Pisces Be more attentive to your health and relax. Avoid talking too much and over-thinking matters. Organise a romantic outing with your partner; a spa trip would do you good.
to evaluate and review your personal progress. Check your appearance and clothes, and improve them. It’s time to reflect, not to make changes.
work or new employees, this is a time of good luck, so make the most of it. Difficulties arise in love, where you may have to go through some trials.
moment for energetic renewal; you’re at the peak of personal pleasure for 2011. You have more energy; control it for your prosperity. Health is excellent.
to delegate more. Try to rest and relax. Good planning will help you be less stressed. This is not the time to worry too much about money.
scoop By Ben Rowdon
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