May 2012 Nยบ 184 Free
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Contents
May
Features 14 20 24
Catalan motor racing, yesterday and today
33. DV8 29. TOYZ
Making the most of your time Setting down long roots in Barcelona
Regulars 06 07 08 11 13 19 22 28 58
On our web An inside look What’s new Fact-checker: Partido Popular Fashion: Julia Weems Interview: Julian Wickham Photo collage: Shopping Ideas: Culture, Gastronomy, Escape the city...
31. CATALUNYA 1400
Back page
Directories 40 45 56
Food & Drink Business Jobs
From the Senior Editor: Time is the theme in this month’s edition. We start with Gregory Haines looking back in time to the origins of motor racing in Catalunya, its growth in popularity here and the increasingly professional approach to the sport of cars driving at high speed. Zoe Koumbouzi tells us about Barcelona’s ‘time banks’, where it is minutes and hours, not cents and euros, that are the valued currency. Our final feature, from Kira Jones, puts the spotlight on six longtime residents of Barcelona to discover why they’ve been here so long, what’s changed in the city and what’s stayed the same. Elsewhere, Natasha Young previews this month’s performance by the British physical theatre group DV8 at the Mercat de les Flors and Will Shank considers the different artwork on show at the MNAC’s ‘Catalunya 1400’ show. We give you the lowdown on the Partido Popular, tell you about Spain’s first ‘toilet shop’ and suggest some walking routes now that the weather’s turning warmer. Hannah Pennell
Publisher Creative Media Group, S.L. Managing Director Esther Jones Senior Editor Hannah Pennell Art Director Aisling Callinan Sales Director Rainer Hobrack Account Executive Richard Cardwell Financial Manager Andrea Moreno Editorial Assistants Max Bentley and Nicola Reid Sales Assistants George Hawken, Tashoma Lemard and Chloe Pera Design Assistant Jenneth Alorro Contributors Jonathan Bennett, Roger de Flower, Gregory Haines, Kira Jones, Zoe Koumbouzi, Will Shank, Tara Stevens and Natasha Young Photographers Richard Owens and Lee Woolcock Cover photo Roberto Saraceno Illustrator Ben Rowdon Editorial Office: Ciutat 7 2º 2ª-4ª, 08002 Barcelona. Tel. 93 451 4486, Fax. 93 451 6537; editorial@barcelona-metropolitan.com Advertising: ads@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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06 INTERNET
on our web
www.barcelona-metropolitan.com
Game, set and blog Catch up with all that happened at last month’s Barcelona Open Tennis contest (the Godó, to give it its nickname) thanks to our sports blogger, Max Bentley. Check out ‘Team Talk’ for Max’s take on the other main sporting events taking place here, including Formula One and, of course, football. www.barcelonametropolitan.com/teamtalk
BOOK GIVEAWAY If you’ve never seen a copy of Barcelona Ink, the literary magazine dedicated to local writing and writers, you might be forgiven. The relatively small print run can be found in select city bookshops and online (barcelonaink.com), but you have to be quick to grab your copy. However, getting hold of the just-published Barcelona Ink: the best of 1-8 is a straightforward way to discover what you’ve missed so far. The anthology, published by Catalonia Press and costing from €4.49 to €14.99 depending on format, features fiction, essays and interviews from contributors including Colm Toíbín, Lydia Lunch and Najat El Hachmi. To make it even easier to get your hands on, we have a copy of the book to give away. Go online for details: www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/bestofink
HARD SUMS TIME Despite the fine weather, trees in bloom and increasing terrace-lounging opportunities, this could well be a time of the year that you dread. Why? Because it’s income tax return time once more: forms, official letters from banks, employers and others, seemingly endless codes... The ‘renta’, as it’s known, really isn’t the best way to use up the hours of sunshine. But fear not. Help is at hand from British accountant David Cook, of the company Spain Accounting, who has kindly put together a simple guide to the essentials regarding who has to do a return, when and how. www.barcelona-metropolitan. com/tax2012
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COVER 07
AN INSIDE LOOK Photographer Roberto Saraceno www.thepeopleandthecity.tumblr.com I am an Italian dancer and choreographer with a big passion for photography. I moved from Italy to Barcelona six years ago but I discovered my passion a year ago. I started to take photos with my phone and I have always been attracted to old buildings, landscapes, urban life and normal people on the street. Before leaving to go to Cuba for a two-week trip, I decided to buy a digital camera and it was right there in Cuba where I realised that I really love photography. The city of La Habana inspired me a lot and when I came back to Barcelona I started to photograph everything that captured my attention. On my photoblog, you can have a look at my personal work. Barcelona is the perfect combination of old and modern. I never miss the natural light because here we have a lot! I always avoid traffic and the people outside the Hard Rock café (it’s so not Barcelona!). A view: the view from the Collserola Park especially from the Carretera de les Aigües. A building: absolutely love the Casa Batlló of Gaudí in Paseo de Gracia. An inspiration: Dalí and his freedom. A place to go with friends: Cadaqués. On my to-do list: I’ve still haven’t been on the top of the W Hotel. About the cover: Back to vintage music at the April Flea Market.
Interested in featuring your photographs or illustrations in our magazine? Email us at design@barcelona-metropolitan.com
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08 THE MONTH
May
WHAT’S NEW IN TOWN
BY NICOLA REID
THE BLUE DOG Most of us like routine, but when you’re eating out at the same places all the time, life can get dull. Unsurprising, then, that new café El Perro Blu prides itself on being a bit quirky. Grab a fresh fruit smoothie or milkshake (with soya milk or oats if you prefer), a special sandwich or how about some pizza or focaccia? They’re made with authentic Italian produce and know-how. Currently, artwork produced by the owner Carla covers the walls, including sketches of the eponymous blue dog; she wants the café to serve as a platform for the work of local artists and illustrators. Seeing it now, you would never believe this quaint café, with its little terrace and WiFi lounge, used to be a pub (don’t worry, they’ve got rid of the stench of stale Estrella). Plaça Sant Agusti Vell 10. www.facebook.com/elperroblu
To the loo Spain’s one and only ‘toilet shop’ has opened at Maremagnum shopping centre. But it’s not actually a toilet salesroom, rather a glorified public toilet. You may call it snobbery, but this innovative Dutch idea aims to solve a problem common to many large cities—the lack of clean toilets in crowded places. Whether it be a shopping centre, main street, train station, petrol station or football stadium, the concept behind ‘2theloo’, which plays on the commonly-used English phrase, may prove to be a saving grace. Once you’ve paid 50 cents, you can pass through the automated gate and enjoy the luxurious experience of well-kept, high-quality toilets. The walls of the cubicles are covered, from floor to ceiling, in enlarged photographs of the city’s landscapes and highlights. There are also family bathrooms and breast-feeding rooms with comfortable chairs. What’s more, if you use the bathrooms, you will receive a 50cent discount coupon to spend in the adjoining shop, which sells toiletries, pharmaceuticals, beverages, postcards, books and gifts. Rest assured that the ‘toilet shop’ is totally environmentally friendly, using sustainable materials, ecological cleaning products, and mechanisms to save water by 60 percent. It might sound a bit OTT, but the concept is catching on, with 24 toilet shops in different European countries including The Netherlands, Belgium and Poland. Maremagnum. www.2theloo.com
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THE MONTH 09
Mixed bag With its unobtrusive entrance, you might easily pass this shop by. Step inside and browse The Grokstore, a recently-opened collaboration between Fotonauta and The Font Hunter—you’re bound to leave this delightfully artistic and creative shop with a mixed bag of goodies. The shop specialises in vintage photography, photographic interior design, iPhone gadgets and gimmicks, as well as personalised typography wood decorations in all manner of shapes, sizes and materials. Just tell them what you want, and they’ll do the rest. Paris 215. www.facebook.com/pages/The-Grokstore
BARCELONATOKYO From the shell that remained of an abandoned dairy, authentic teppanyaki restaurant Iki brings a new spot of elegance and simplicity to the Eixample. It’s not just another Japanese restaurant on Barcelona’s map; the chefs have a few surprises up their sleeves. In this Barcelona-Tokyo partnership, you can expect many renewed and adapted recipes, with creations such as tempura de calçots. While waiting for your food, take a look at the illustrations of the Japanese Edo period on the walls, and see how they’ve combined them with scenes of Barcelona. Aribau 174. www.ikibarcelona.com
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FACT-CHECKER 11
(ALMOST) ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT: el PARTIDO POPULAR HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?
- Founded in 1976 by Franco’s one-time tourism minister Manuel Fraga, it was originally called Alianza Popular (AP). The name was changed 13 years later. - AP struggled to win support from voters, despite forming coalitions with various other small political parties. When it came into being in 1989, the Partido Popular (PP) was made up not only of AP, but also the Partido Liberal and Democracia Cristiana, an existing coalition known as the Coalición Popular. - In its statutes, the party is referred to as being centre-reformist; however, it is generally regarded as being the home of Spain’s rightwing conservatives with a close relationship to the Catholic church.
186
the number of Congress seats the party won in last November’s general election, giving them an absolute majority and their best electoral result to date.
REALLY?
- While the white bird that is seen on the PP’s insignia is now officially referred to as a seagull (gaviota), it was originally described as an albatross, and Golden Albatross (Albatros de Oro) awards have been handed out to party members. - Following a series of corruption scandals involving some high-ranking members of the party, earlier this year, the PP announced that courses in ‘professional ethics’ were being organised to help avoid more incidences of nepotism, abuse of power and similar. - Unlike the Catalan Socialist party (PSC), the Partit Popular de Catalunya is not an entity in its own right, but simply a regional offshoot of the main party. Catalunya’s relationship with the PP has never been easy. With the party largely adhering to centralist, Madrid-focused policies, it has made numerous political and legal moves regarded by many locally as attacks on the region’s autonomous authority as well as its culture and language.
51,300
the number of Facebook ‘likes’ the PP has. To put that into context, Rajoy himself has over 82,000, the PSOE has managed just 39,600 and the British Labour Party is liked by 121,300 Facebookers.
Mariano Rajoy, current prime minister of Spain and PP president
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Maria Dolores de Cospedal, secretary-general of the PP
BACK IN POWER: THE STORY SO FAR. Taking the reins of power from the Spanish Socialist Party (PSOE) at the end of 2011, with Spain facing almost 25 percent unemployment and an approaching recession, the right-wing PP was thrown in at the deep end with its first government in eight years. Prime Minister Rajoy was slow to announce his plans for his first term of office and, since January, has largely been dancing to the tune of Europe; an attempt to unilaterally set Spain’s spending deficit for the year (way beyond the limits allowed by the EU) was given short shrift by Brussels. Public spending cuts and labour reform (which has made it easier to make employees redundant) have brought protests from trade unions, students and workers, culminating in a general strike on March 29th. They have also angered some sectors with plans to make abortion laws more restrictive and there are fears that they will at some point reverse the PSOE-introduced law allowing gay marriages. A much-predicted PP absolute majority in the Andalucian regional elections in mid-March failed to appear— a sign of things to come?
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STYLE 13
Images L-R: Fashion workshop at IED; photo of Julia Weems taken by Carlos Felix; Designs by José Castro, with whom Julia worked as a stylist, photo by Cecilia Duarte
Julia Weems’s journey to fashion director at one of Barcelona’s leading design schools was not straightforward. After working from a young age in fashion in New York, without any formal training, she moved to Barcelona with her Spanish husband; however, he had been out of the country for 20 years and was told by authorities that he no longer had Spanish citizenship. With Julia’s own status here initially dependent on that of her husband’s, she took the decision to apply for a student visa to be able to stay with him while he sorted out his paperwork and started studying at the Istituto Europeo di Design Barcelona (IED). She also freelanced as a stylist, created a T-shirt line and organised shopping and cultural tours based around the Barcelona fashion scene. When her course was finished, she stayed on at the school as a teacher, later taking over as director of Fashion.
fashion
Describe the school’s outlook and approach to its work. To begin, IED is part of a network of schools that includes locations in Italy, Spain and Brazil. This international culture mix is inherent to the IED student experience. In terms of IED Barcelona, I think that even in terms of the architecture, it’s a space that lends itself to being a community. We have a lot of big open space that can be shared between all of the different areas and all of the different students. We have a large percentage of international students, nationalities and languages at the school; around 70 percent of our students are foreigners. This is a very important part of studying at IED. The students mixing between cultures and languages really opens up the mind and provides inspiration and understanding that wouldn’t exist otherwise. The school very much has a presence in Barcelona. The design department did an installation on one of the streets for the Festes de Gràcia last year; we’re always present at The Brandery and 008 Barcelona. We really try to give students as much exposure as possible. We [also] travel internationally with students’ final collections to different international fashion weeks, for example Dubai, Russia and Colombia. What is it about Barcelona? For me, Barcelona is the perfect balance of big and small. There’s the small town feel: people talk within neighbourhoods, get to know each other, at the market or in a bar. I’m originally from a small town in Louisiana. I came from the small town life, but I don’t want too small. As soon as I could, I moved to New York. But New York was stressful. I worked 15 hours a day, seven days a week. It’s hard to continue to live that way if you want a life. Here in Barcelona, there are tons of events, mixture of cultures of people coming in and out. At the same time, everything closes on a Sunday, people still have a siesta, and the slow lifestyle still exists. It’s a quality of life. Would you say that you follow fashion or you create it? I’m aware of all of it, the trends and the silhouettes. But in terms of
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Julia Weems is the director of the Fashion department at the Istituto Europeo di Design Barcelona—Nicola Reid spoke to her about the school, sustainable fashion, and her earliest style experiences.
my personal style and what I create, it’s mine. I buy a lot of vintage pieces, I take items and completely manipulate them into mutants, almost. For me, to go shopping in Zara or places like that, I could shop there easily, but instead of buying one garment, maybe I buy four of the same shirt and I sew it together to form another kind of mutant, and then that’s how I’ll wear it. So in that sense, I don’t really follow trends. What are your views on sustainable fashion? Actually, the new project that I’m working on for my website is going to be all about recycled or sustainable materials. In our culture, I think we’ve probably produced everything that we could ever need in our lives for the next thousand years. We should close all the factories. But definitely in terms of my own creations, creatively, I find it much more interesting to use things that have already been made and give them a new life. What changes have you noticed in fashion? There’s much more attention to detail. People are starting to value quality. The more human and the more personal, rather than the mass-produced. Little by little, clients want quality over quantity. People are shopping less, spending more on something more special. Little by little, it’s starting to change. What’s your youngest fashion memory? I actually have it all in my house in Louisiana. My collection of Barbies is completely cut up, taped together, mixed and matched. My mum saved it all and was, like, “Oh my God! I should’ve known!” They all have tattoos, I cut their hair, I mixed and matched their limbs and skin colour. There is not one outfit untouched. Everything was changed around—nothing is the original. www.juliaweems.com Read the full interview with Julia on-line at www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/juliaweems
4/23/12 1:17:34 PM
14 MOTOR RACING
Take to the roads Motor racing has a long history in Catalunya. By Gregory Haines.
T
his month sees the planet’s fastest sport return to Barcelona for the resumption of a highly intriguing Formula One (F1) year. It’s a nine-month schedule boasting destinations as far afield as Melbourne and São Paulo, as wide-ranging as Montreal and Singapore and as rural as central England and Belgium’s Ardennes forests. The Catalan capital may not quite match the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo, but has now been part of a star-studded global round trip for 21 consecutive years. However, should politicians get their way, Barcelona may soon be sharing the event with Valencia. Ten years ago, F1 was a minority sport in Spain. There were no front-running local drivers to help the cause and, because of this, limited television coverage. Whenever it came to motor racing, bikes would always be the way to go. Even rallying would top F1, thanks chiefly to double World Champion, Carlos Sainz. But it’s a little-known fact that some of the earliest Grand Prix races, even before the days of Formula One, were held closer to home than you might imagine, not on tracks, but on local streets. At the start of the 20th century, city and town racing was very much the norm—not least as country roads were scarce or only existed in conditions one might describe as less than ideal—with the sport developing in various European countries including Britain, France and Germany (which each had their own national livery), and Spain, and Catalunya in particular, was no exception. When strolling through the streets in and around the town of Sant Pere
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de Ribes, 40 kilometres south-west of Barcelona, you’d be forgiven for not realising that this is where it all began for the country. In the same way, most of us would be oblivious to the fact that, hidden away in the trees just a few hundred metres from the side of the Autopista de Pau Casals, is a motor-racing relic. So what began the phenomenon of driving cars around in circles, sometimes inches apart and at speeds in excess of 200 miles an hour, for 90 minutes every other Sunday? Rewind to France in 1894. An 80-mile sprint from Paris to Rouen, complete with a lunch break, was organised through a newspaper by a man named Pierre Gifard. Confusing onlookers at first, the idea soon caught on as street races began attracting greater numbers of competitors and spectators alike; more purpose-built venues would start to sprout up when accidents on the roads became frequent. The first disaster occurred when two men, one being the Marquis of Martaignac, lost their lives during the 1898 Paris to Nice road race. It was a similar story in Spain, but not in or even near Madrid. Catalunya was and still is the nation’s home of motor racing. While it is true that the first Spanish Grand Prix was staged in the town of Guadarrama, near the capital, in 1913, the earliest Spanish motorsport event was the Catalan Cup of Sant Pere de Ribes. The race was staged twice, in 1908 and 1909, and was won on both occasions by Frenchman Jules Goux—no slouch, he was also the first European to clinch victory in America’s legendary Indy 500. In fact, the ‘Copa’ was so popular that demand rose for a lasting venue, which duly came in the form of Sitges-Terramar. Remarkably, this
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MOTOR RACING 15
Left to right: Last year’s Spanish Grand Prix at the Montmeló track (courtesy: Ferrari Press Office); Construction of the Circuit de Catalunya in 1991 (courtesy: Circuit de Catalunya archive); Racing at Montjuïc in 1970 (courtesy: Circuit de Catalunya archive)
two kilometre-long oval took only 10 months to build at a price of four million pesetas. It was also impressive thanks to its 60-degree banking; to put that in perspective, the Indianapolis banking boasts a gradient of just nine degrees. Sitges hosted the Spanish Grand Prix of 1923, won by another Frenchman, Albert Divo, who did the honours in a Wolverhamptonbuilt Sunbeam. During its time, the track welcomed Tazio Nuvolari, arguably the greatest ever competitor in motor racing’s pre-war period. But all was not well at Terramar; the rushed construction had left organisers with empty pockets. Unpaid workers grabbed the takings and those behind the event were embarrassingly left with nothing to reward the drivers. The track’s popularity petered out over the following three decades until it was eventually closed as a racing venue. Fortunately, unlike many of its siblings across the continent, the oval was not destroyed and (despite being almost one hundred years old) it remains in fantastic condition. Nowadays, the grounds are private property and occupied by several houses, but are well worth a visit if you get the chance. When travelling on the C-32, just after junction 26 in the direction of Barcelona (part of the stretch known as the Autopista de Pau Casals), look out for the oval amongst the hills on the right-hand side. Following the Second World War, the Formula One World Championship was launched in 1950. The first race was staged at Silverstone in England, watched closely by the Royal Family. Spain joined the fray a year later, as a 20-car field took to the streets of what is now a hustling part of Barcelona. The Pedralbes circuit essentially
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consisted of five straights, with the start/finish stretch being the Avenida del Generalísimo Franco, now Avinguda Diagonal. This was no normal race either. The championship finale saw the late, great Juan Manuel Fangio clinch his first of five world titles; a sum that wouldn’t be equalled until 2002, by Michael Schumacher. Just one other race would be staged at Pedralbes, in 1954. Between 1968 and 1975, Spain’s race was shared by two venues: Jarama, north of Madrid, and another Barcelona street event, this time in Montjuïc. The fantastic loop took cars back and forth from Avenida del Estadio, bypassing the famous fountains of Plaza de España; the road there still bears fading painted grid hatchings. At the top of the mountain, the current site of the Olympic Stadium was home to the pit lane and paddock complex. Unfortunately but justifiably, Montjuïc was scrapped after a catastrophic and premature end to the 1975 race, from which several drivers (including then reigning champion, Ermerson Fittipaldi) had withdrawn because of safety worries. Sure enough, the car of Germany’s Rolf Stommelen flew off the road, killing five people. F1 reverted to Jarama, with the Circuito Permanente de Jerez taking the reins between 1986 and 1990; it would return there once more in later years, hosting the 1997 European Grand Prix in which Schumacher infamously drove into title rival Jacques Villeneuve. In 1989, ground breaking took place at the Circuit de Catalunya, which is one of the first truly modern Formula One tracks. It is located on an industrial estate, a few minutes from the small town of Montmeló. The facility is a shining example of an international
>>
4/23/12 1:04:03 PM
16 MOTOR RACING
>>
Catalan sports setting and was born in a golden era for the region, opening in the period of Barcelona’s transformation before the 1992 Olympic Games. The first race, staged in 1991, delivered one of F1’s all-time famous sights, as sparks literally flew when Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna battled wheel-to-wheel. The track also played host to Michael Schumacher’s first Ferrari win on a soaking wet afternoon in June 1996. Ten years later, a now partisan Spanish crowd finally celebrated a home winner as Fernando Alonso delivered the goods in his Renault. Thanks to Spain’s F1 boom and two world titles, coupled with a dramatic year for Alonso alongside Britain’s Lewis Hamilton in 2007, a second race was added to the schedule as the port of Valencia welcomed the European Grand Prix of 2008. Hosting the maiden race in the height of August was not the cleverest of ideas, however: many residents spend the month away and those who did attend were subject to the intense afternoon sunshine of a summer’s day in the Mediterranean. The Valencia race is government-funded and local officials are currently looking to cut costs where possible, with the economic downturn clearly an important reason for that. Barcelona is also struggling. Indeed, attendances at last year’s Spanish Grand Prix
were the lowest at the Circuit de Catalunya since the end of the Nineties. The upshot? Alternative Spanish races from 2013 onwards. The deal is yet to be confirmed, but is highly encouraged by both Valencian politicians and Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of the Formula One Group, who is keen to cut back on more traditional events in order to make space for the likes of New Jersey in 2013 and Sochi in Russia a year later. The demise of one Spanish race may be disappointing, but is no surprise as both Italy and Germany have compromised one of their own two in recent seasons. Thankfully, the chances of us losing F1 completely are low, for now. Let us hope that Catalunya will not be missing from the F1 calendar in the near future. But with sport architects France having already been absent for three years, what chance does anybody have? Ultra high-tech Abu Dhabi and diverse, developing India may deserve a slot for their own reasons, but surely history alone (and not money) should be enough to retain a Grand Prix? Nuvolari and Fangio would doubtless agree.
This year’s Spanish Grand Prix takes place from May 11th to 13th Follow Gregory on Twitter: @GregoryHainesF1
This year marks a full-time Formula One return for Catalan Pedro de la Rosa. He is doing it with Madrid-based HRT, Spain’s first and, so far, only team. He may be 41 with a F1 career that started over 13 years ago, but ‘Peter of the Rose’ still has something to prove. Ahead of his Barcelona homecoming, we grabbed him for an exclusive chat. Pedro, Barcelona has changed almost beyond belief in your lifetime; what do you remember of the Olympic year in 1992? It was a massive thing for the city, not only during the summer of ’92 but all the years preceding it. I was at school then and everyone was so keen on working as a volunteer at the Olympics; there was a fantastic atmosphere and the whole city was living for it. It definitely transformed Barcelona, making it much more attractive and modern, and we all benefited from a lot of infrastructure that was needed but couldn’t be built before, as we didn’t have the money without a perfect excuse like the Olympics. Where are you living nowadays? Well, I actually don’t live in Barcelona anymore. For the past five years I’ve been living in Zurich with my wife and three kids, and my youngest daughter was even born in Zurich. But before that I had lived absolutely all of my life in the centre of Barcelona, except for a few years in the middle because of racing. We were in Sarrià, near the Ronda de Dalt and very close to the mountains. It’s not the seaside but more the mountainous side of the city, with beautiful views and lots of universities and schools. It’s a very artistic and pleasant area. Do you have any favourite restaurants in the city? I have plenty of favourite restaurants in Barcelona! It’s difficult to choose just one, but I love La Venta, for example, which is on the mountain side; you have a fantastic view of the whole city at night… it’s a very romantic restaurant where I take my wife on occasions. I also like La Balsa, also on the mountain side—they say that was Ayrton Senna’s favourite restaurant in Barcelona. In any case, it’s a place we used to go to celebrate birthdays or any special occasions with my family and I have very fond memories of being there with my parents. Do you find the traffic on the Rondas as bad as we do?! It’s terrible! An absolute disaster! I always say that the Rondas are
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Image of Pedro de la Rosa, courtesy HRT F1 Team
Five minutes with Pedro de la Rosa
like the tunnel of time: when you go into any of the Rondas, you never know when you’ll get out! I try to avoid them as much as I can because it’s becoming a serious issue. They were created for the Olympics and since then there has been no investment; we need more access to Barcelona and better ring roads. I’m sorry if you’ve ever been stuck there! It certainly won’t be your last time. When did you discover your passion for motor racing? My first moment came when I was a very young kid. I would take my mother’s car when she was out at the swimming pool or sunbathing! I would be in her Renault 5 with my brother and select first gear, then realised that I could drive a real car! I was only nine years old but it felt fantastic and from that moment on I got the desire to drive a go-kart, but I never aimed to be anything more than a karter…so it was at the age of nine when I realised that motorbikes were good but cars were a lot better.
F1 career facts: Pedro de la Rosa Active seasons: 1999-2002, 2005-2006 and 2010-present Team: HRT Former teams: Arrows, Jaguar, McLaren and Sauber
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INTERVIEW 19
Julian Wickham Theatre writer, director and founder of The English Drama School, 25, British I was a professional actor in London for a good six years. I trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA) in London; I did a three-year BA in Stage, Screen and Acting. I didn’t really go through the motions of being a student in a shedhouse, if you know what I mean. I had my own flat, I was working two jobs at the same time. But it was world-class drama training and it was the best school for what I wanted to do at the time. After training, I won Best Young Player of the Year in 2009. That was when I played the young lawyer Paul Bratter in Neil Simon’s Barefoot in the Park with a company called the Compton Players. It was lovely to get an award. I also enjoyed playing Mercutio with the RSC, but that was hard work. For some reason, I stopped getting acting jobs. So, I decided to try my hand at something else: freelance writing. I did that for about six months, but I didn’t have much success. I just got a bit bored of the ‘la-de-da’ of London, so I thought I’d try it out here. It was basically a decision between either Barcelona or San Francisco. I figured I’d find it easier to integrate myself and get around the paperwork if I came to Barcelona. [When] my parents divorced, I went on holiday to Venezuela with my Dad. I ended up living there for two years as a teenager on a beautiful island called Margarita. I learnt Spanish over there so it was a lot easier for me to settle down a bit here, because I already knew the lingo. I was here for about six months before I started the drama school. It’s aimed at young adults and expats in Barcelona. I rent my own theatre in downtown Barcelona. I’m very lucky to have the theatre. The size is quite big for someone of my level. It can fit 120 people sitting down. I do intend to invest in some proper lighting at some point! There’s nobody doing things quite like me. I’m not a theatre company, I’m a theatre school, you see. I don’t necessarily work with actors. There’s no audition to join. Anyone can join. I think that’s quite ambitious of me. I’m original—I write, produce and direct all of our shows. I spend a lot of my time in front of a computer. The last play I wrote, Playing with Fire, which was performed in Barcelona last January, was heavily autobiographical. It’s gotten really big really quickly. I even have two members of staff now. I have a personal assistant who makes things a lot easier for me. And my set designer is fantastic. She’s going to be able to build a much bigger set this time. In the early days, back in October, sometimes four or five people showed up. Now, over 30 people come every week. I’ve written a play called The Secret of Anabelle Veritas, with a cast of 16 people, which was inspired by Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. It’s about a young girl who moves from the north of England to London in her teenage years and inherits a lot of money. The play really exposes our mortality and challenges, our ideals of beauty. It also deals with concepts such as innocence and youth, and the darkness that influences and lingers nearby. It’s a pretty dark play. I’m concurrently working on The Taming of the Shrew, with a cast of 18 people, which will be performed in June. Obviously I didn’t write that! But, I’ve adapted it; it’s set in modern-day Hollywood.
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I don’t enjoy going to the theatre as much as I used to. I’m obviously looking at the surroundings, the way the actors have been directed, and all the things that I can read between the lines of. I’m also looking for actors I can poach to use in my own company! The worst thing someone could say to me is “Don’t you look smart?”. I wear suits every day. People remark on it all the time, but it’s just how I feel comfortable. I’ve got quite a few, all colours and shades. I only brought one suitcase with me to Barcelona so I have 30 here, but about 70 back in London.
The Secret of Anabelle Veritas: May 17th-20th; The Taming of the Shrew: June 21st-24th. Both at Espai Mon Teatre Interview by Nicola Reid. Photo by Lee Woolcock.
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20 TIME BANKS
Tick tock
With the traditional economy on its knees, alternatives to money, such as time, are becoming increasingly valued . By Zoe Koumbouzi.
M
oney, money, money: it’s hard to imagine a time before it existed. It rules our times, sways governments, makes or breaks national and international systems. But before money, people traded and bartered over products, possessions, knowledge and even time. In the changing world of today, we are seeing shifts of consciousness about the environment, education, society, and also money itself. There is a move towards bypassing the current financial system and going back to the times of bartering or exchanging, or even trying to live without money altogether. Here in Barcelona, there are a number of important movements taking place, including the blossoming of a sophisticated system of time banks. Informal timesharing or swapping systems have been in operation for eons, but the first official Barcelona time bank (banc del temps), that’s to say an organised system based on a ‘proper’ banking model—complete with professional accounting, individual current accounts, cheques and currency (in the form of time)—was created in 1998. Elvira Méndez, a doctor and collaborator with what is now one of the most important social support associations in Barcelona, Salut i Família, was inspired by a women’s collective in Italy. She brought back their ideas and slogan ‘Women change city life’. And they did. In 1998, in Guinardó, the first time bank of Barcelona was set up by a group of women and that set the ball rolling. Now, Barcelona has nine time banks organised by Salut i Família (along with a number of informal set-ups), and nine more are on the cards to open in the near future. Sant Cugat, Badalona and Sant Joan Despí are amongst the places outside the city with their own bancs del temps. So what exactly is a time bank, and how does it work? Josefina Altés, the Spanish Time Bank Network Coordinator and a member of Salut i Família, described them as “A time exchange project where members offer knowledge, skills or services. The shared currency is time, and each hour of a person’s time is worth the same whatever they are offering, so it’s a system based on total equality. Equality is basic to the project: all races, all professions, all ages are welcome and considered equal. The project is aimed at everyone.” Each time bank is an expression of its members and the services
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they offer, so it ends up reflecting the cultural identity of the neighbourhood in which it is based. This, of course, is something in constant motion; time banks are flexible, ever changing, a work in progress and very much alive. They also offer varied extra services and events, from debate sessions to group outings and workshops on subjects including Reiki and sewing. As Altés puts it, “It’s about bringing people together. These days, we live fractionalised lives, many people in a building coming and going, not knowing each other. Time banks help us to get to know our neighbours, and create support networks.” It’s important to build familiarity within the system, as the more the members know each other, the more likely they are to use it. Amparo Coscolla, a user of the Banc del Temps de Sant Martí backs up this point: “It depends on the services you want, but, for example, if it’s something like babysitting, you want to know the person.” Altés says the last few years have seen “incredible” growth in this sector. She puts it down to two main reasons; firstly, because of all the groundwork done in the past 10 years, and secondly, the changing times. “A new philosophy is emerging, a stirring of the consciousness. For example, before, no one wanted to wear second-hand clothes; it was seen as something you had to do if you were really poor. People wanted new things, and if from a wellknown brand, even better. Now, mercats d’intercanvi [exchange markets] are all over the place, many of them connected with time bank communities. It’s now accepted and even fashionable to wear second-hand clothes; it’s a lifestyle statement, an expression of an alternative, greener, more conscious movement, and of different economic models. The success of the time bank model is connected to all these types of changes happening in our society, from organic urban vegetable patches, to cooperatives of food or health. It’s a new philosophy of life.” With this refreshingly positive outlook, it’s hard to think of a reason not to head down to your local banc del temps and open an account. It’s easy—go to your local time bank and fill in a form detailing three or four services you can offer, for example, language classes, babysitting, odd jobs, accompanying older people, or IT skills. You will then have an interview, after which you can start using your account right away with a cheque system. If no one wants what you are offering, you can pay back the bank by helping out with community projects, or giving talks or workshops on
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TIME BANKS 21
something you know about. So what’s the future of these enterprises? The sky really is the limit. Salut i Família are working on a project that trains public schoolteachers in the philosophy and administration of time banks, so they can operate them within their classes, allowing skilled people to come in and share knowledge with the children in workshops and talks. Another current project is working with the long-term unemployed to boost self esteem, improve CVs and motivate them. With the advent of new technology, time banks are more flexible than ever before, connecting at a national as well as international level, facilitating the growth of sophisticated online exchange systems, be it for time or for commodities like flat swapping or carpooling; Salut i Família already organises projects with Italian and Portuguese groups and there are similar associations in Britain, Germany, France, the US and Chile. “There is just so much to work on,” says Altés. Now all we need to do is find the time. Further reading and related projects Site dedicated to all emerging alternatives to money: www. vivirsinempleo.org The RES, Catalunya’s first official alternative currency. www.res. be/cat Hitching/carpooling scheme: www.fesedit.cat Barcelona freecycle—free exchange system created to help recycle goods by passing unwanted items onto people who need them:
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http://groups.freecycle.org/Barcelona-Freecycle/description Bookcrossing in Spain—leave books you’ve read around for other bibliophiles to discover and enjoy: www.bookcrossing-spain. com Agendas with details of mercats d’intercanvi: http://mercats-intercanvi.blogspot.com.es; www.intercanvis.net Couchsurfing—save on hotel bills by sleeping on a friendly stranger’s sofa or just discover new places with the help of a local: www.couchsurfing.org BARCELONA’S CURRENT TIME BANKS, RUN BY SALUT I FAMILIA (www.bdtonline.org) - Bon Pastor (Sant Andreu): Centre Cívic Bon Pastor, Passeig Enric Sanchís s/n, http://bonpastor.bdtonline.org - Gràcia: Plaça del Nord 7-10, http://gracia.bdtonline.org - Raval: Sant Pau 82, http://raval.bdtonline.org - Barceloneta: Conreria 1-9, http://barceloneta.bdtonline.org - Sant Martí: Gran Via 837, www.bancdeltempsdesantmarti.org - Sarrià-Sant Gervasi: Jaume Piquet 23 - Can Baró (Horta-Guinardó): Josep Serrano 59-71 - Trinitat Vella (Sant Andreu): Centre Cívic Trinitat Vella, Foradada 36-38, http://trinitatvella.bdtonline.org - Sagrada Familia: Espai 210, Padilla 210 baixos, http://bdtsagradafamilia.blogspot.com Salut i Família: www.saludyfamilia.es
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22 PHOTO COLLAGE
SHOPPING
Thanks to all of you who sent in photos for this subject—see more images online at: www.barcelonametropolitan.com/shopping. Next month’s theme is: BUILDINGS. Send your photos to editorial@ barcelona-metropolitan.com by May 16th. Find all the practical info at: www.barcelona-metropolitan. com/photocollage
Stall outside the Sagrada Família—by Wendy Taylor
Looking down an aisle of stalls in La Boqueria—by Carl Forbes
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PHOTO COLLAGE 23
Barcelona shopping—by Marika Michalak
Shopping on Rambla Catalunya—by Matt Phillis
Barcelona clothing store—by Matt Phillis
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At the monthly flea market—by Roberto Saraceno
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24 LONG-TERM RESIDENTS
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Mariano de Bernardi
Christine Zindy
Violetta Curry
Nina Cohen
Jonathan Glanzberg
Jan Clayton
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LONG-TERM RESIDENTS 25
Here to stay What keeps people in Barcelona? Text and photos by Kira Jones.
The word ‘expatriate’ derives from the Latin ex, meaning ‘out of ’ and patria, meaning ‘country’ or ‘fatherland’. In its most basic context, to be an ‘expat’ is to reside in a country and culture other than one’s own. Not surprisingly, Spain has come to be known as one of the world’s most popular destinations for people looking to set up home abroad. Some come for love, some for work, some for the climate, some for general adventure. Many stay for a very long time. Why Barcelona? We asked a few of the city’s long-term foreign residents that very question...
MARIANO DE BERNARDI—Buenos Aires, Argentina Mariano de Bernardi originally planned to stay in Barcelona for three months. Then he planned to stay for six months, and then for one year. That was in 1987. “I had a kind of personal crisis in Buenos Aires,” he recalls, “a job that I didn’t like, no future in my career and a relationship that didn’t work.” So he cut his ties and came abroad. He considered London and New York, but he felt more confident moving to a Spanish city, and he had friends in Barcelona. “The reason I decided to stay was that I felt better here than in Buenos Aires,” he says, “and also I was having a lot of fun...” Like many foreign residents, De Bernardi says he feels neither Catalan nor Spanish because he isn’t Catalan or Spanish. Nor does he feel 100-percent Argentinian, since he left his country so long ago. “When I go back there, I feel more like a tourist than a native,” he explains. “I simply feel like an Argentinian who has lived in Barcelona for more than 25 years.” De Bernardi says he is more a “citizen of the world” than anything, except when it comes to football. He supports the Argentina national team, but is also a very serious Barça supporter. “Football is about feelings,” he says. “It is demonstrative of how you feel about the place you live and where you feel you belong.” De Bernardi likes that Barcelona has become a “handy-sized” cosmopolitan city, which he attributes mainly to the Olympic Games of 1992. “You can cross Barcelona in less than 15 minutes, but it is still a big city in terms of culture, in the broad sense of the word,” he says. “And yes, I would choose it again.” The ability to easily escape the city is also one of the factors that has kept De Bernardi here for so long. “The possibility of driving a couple of hours and ending up on some of the most beautiful beaches of Europe, or going to the Pyrenees for the weekend, is fantastic,” he says. “It is, for me, a very important feature of Barcelona.” De Bernardi recommends: *Any ‘tasca’ [traditional tavern] in Ciutat Vella
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*Argentinian restaurants: La Pampa (Autovia Castelldefels 110km, Castelldefels), La Carreta (Balmes 358, Sant Gervasi) and La Vacatada (Dr Trueta 225, Poblenou) CHRISTINE ZINDY—Boston, Massachusetts, US Christine Zindy came to Barcelona for love, 12 years ago. “My partner’s job brought us here, and I was thrilled,” she says. They planned on staying two to three years, possibly longer. “We were open for adventure and had no real set plans,” Zindy explains. The relationship ended, but Zindy’s love for Barcelona remained. “I had evolved and changed,” she says. “I had a large group of wonderful friends, a good-paying job, a gorgeous apartment on Enric Granados and a lifestyle that was unparalleled.” Zindy maintains that Barcelona was, and still is, the perfect place for a single, independent woman. “I relish that time in my life,” she says. Now remarried, Zindy and her husband are “enjoying the Barcelona lifestyle in a different way.” Zindy recalls feeling more integrated into Spanish and Catalan society when she worked for a local office here, before becoming a mother and, ultimately, completing her training as a Speech and Language Pathologist. “Being a mother is quite isolating,” says Zindy, “and rather than feeling more attached to being ‘American’ or ‘Spanish’ or ‘Catalan,’ I feel more like a member of the ‘mother’ society.” At the same time, adds Zindy, this society loves children, and so having a child is a huge “ice-breaker” and allows her to enjoy a certain sense of “forgiveness, lenience and understanding” in her daily interactions. Zindy says the city is cleaner than when she arrived. “Things like trash collection, street cleaning, and recycling have made it a nicer and greener place to live,” she says, “and Bicing and new bike lanes have changed the accessibility of the city.” While she would love to see more parks and more green space developed, and stricter measures taken to address the problem of air pollution, she also feels the city is more or less on the right path. “Living in Barcelona, I have come to crave the colour green, green trees, green grass, and flowers,” she says. “But finding a city with everything that Barcelona has to offer—sea, mountains, great weather, culture—and clean air and green space? Well, that Utopian city just doesn’t exist.” Zindy recommends: *A bicycle day trip to Mataró *Beaches up the coast for a “cleaner, quieter, less theft-ridden experience”
>
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>>
VIOLETTA CURRY—Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US When Violetta Curry arrived in Spain 25 years ago, she believed she was the only black person here. “It was really difficult,” she recalls, “really scary, also. There were no black people.” Curry originally went to Granada for a semester abroad. She had no plans to stay in Spain, but she soon met a Spaniard and her course was forever altered. “He came to the US to meet my family, and then we said, ‘Now what are we going to do?’” recalls Curry. “So we got married.” The two returned to Spain and lived in the Sierra Nevada, Granada and the Canary Islands before landing in Benidorm. Curry began her career as a jazz singer there, as part of a ‘Supremes’ show, but ultimately Barcelona beckoned. “I got a phone call from a musical director who had heard about me,” says Curry. “He was looking for a singer for this pretty classy nightclub with a big band. I came, I auditioned, and I got out of Benidorm.” When Curry arrived in Barcelona, she walked around the city and was struck by its beauty. “The lifestyle keeps me here,” she says. “Because I’ve been living here so long, I really understand the Spanish character; I really understand the nuances.” Curry adds that because she came to Spain at the age of 21, she had the privilege of maturing here, having to learn everything from banking to shopping to cooking. “I grew up here,” she says. “My whole ambience was Spanish, and so I became very emotionally attached to Spain.” Curry also recalls her decision to “be intelligent” and to study Catalan early on. “Speaking Catalan has opened a lot of doors for me,” she says. “It’s my party trick.” Though she now has a second career as an English professor, Curry continues to perform and to teach voice. Barcelona is home for Curry, even though her husband lives in Dublin—a marital arrangement she highly recommends. “We see each other about once a month,” she says. “We tend to meet in cities like London and Amsterdam.” Curry feels that the face of Barcelona has changed, which makes it a very interesting city to live in. “The downside is that the crime rate has gone up,” she adds, “but I still consider it to be a really safe city.” Curry recommends: *Morelia Argentinian restaurant (Plaça Comercial 7, Born) *Riding a bicycle NINA COHEN—Burlington, Vermont, US Nina Cohen left the US 17 years ago. She was on her way to Prague, and then Berlin, but the weather in Barcelona won out. “I took a trip around Spain, by train,” recalls Cohen, “and somehow Barcelona made the most sense.” Cohen says she knew that when she left the US, she wasn’t going to go back. “I don’t know how I knew that, because I didn’t have anything here. I knew I was going to stay here, but I didn’t know how I was going to stay.” An industrious entrepreneur, Cohen figured it out. She worked as a nanny, she worked at a bar and, ultimately, she opened her own clothing store, called ‘Ninas’ on Carrer Verdi, which she had for a decade. Just last year, Cohen opened the vegetarian ‘Café Camélia’, also on Verdi. “I wanted a family neighbourhood café where people could come and eat home-cooked food,” says Cohen. “I like the social aspect of running a restaurant.” Cohen enjoys her expat status. “There’s always a newness to it, to always being a foreigner,” she says. “I’ll always be on the outside, I’ll always have an accent, I’ll always be culturally marked, which I like,” she adds. “I’m also more at peace with my country here. I prefer a long-distance relationship.” Cohen liked how easy-going Barcelona was when she first got
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here. “It was cheap; it was easy,” she says. “It’s changed, but not as much as it’s changed in other places. I’ve always liked the level of tolerance toward savage behaviour here.” For now, Cohen plans to stay put. “There are moments when I still look around and I say, ‘Wow, what a wonderful place to live.’” Cohen recommends: *A trip to Montseny *A walk in Parc del Carmel *Veg World (Bruniquer 26, Gràcia) *La Vietnamita (Torrent de l’Olla 78, Gràcia) JONATHAN GLANZBERG—Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Jonathan Glanzberg came to Barcelona 22 years ago with the intention of staying a year and the desire to learn to speak “perfect” Castilian which, he confesses, still hasn’t happened. He came here originally because an American friend who had lived in the Basque country convinced him to come to Spain rather than going to Japan, which was his plan at the time. “I’m easily influenced by others,” says Glanzberg, who took a four-year “detour” in the mid-Nineties to Peru, Mexico and back to the US. “I would still choose Barcelona as a place to live,” he adds. “Having lived in three other countries has made me appreciate this place more.” English teacher by day, Glanzberg is also a working musician. His band, the Hoppin’ Frogs, plays blues “but with elements of alternative country, jazz and rock.” Glanzberg likes that Barcelona is a lot more “multicultural” than it was years ago. “It’s hard to believe that sushi was almost unknown when I came here, and now we’re knee-deep in the stuff,” he says. “But I hate the fact that parts of the city have turned in to theme parks for tourists. I miss the bars for toothless old men. There will be no place for me to hang out in a couple of years.” Glanzberg recommends: *Sol y Luna (Verdi 50, Gràcia) *Honky Tonk (Finlàndia 45, Sants) and El Col·leccionista and Cara B (Torrent de les Flors 46 and 36, respectively, Gràcia) for live music JAN CLAYTON—Cambridgeshire, England Barcelona was “recommended” to Jan Clayton by friends back in England 13 years ago. “It had sunshine, it was cheap, and it had a great standard of living,” she says. “I had no time frame,” she goes on, “but I imagined it might be a starting-point from which I would try other countries, and then there was no change of mind. I suppose I was happy where I was and I just forgot that there were other options.” Clayton does not like how expensive the city has become, especially in the area of housing. But she does like the “diminishing amount” of dog shit. “There is still room for improvement,” she adds, “but when I first moved here you could barely see the pavement.” An actress, Clayton calls herself a “mish mash” when it comes to cultural identity. “Here, I definitely feel more English, but in England, I certainly don’t feel Spanish or Catalan,” she says, “but I do realise I’ve been culturally changed.” Clayton recommends: *“Beaching it” in Caldes d’Estrac (Maresme) *A walk in Collserola *Eating at Fresco (www.fresco.es) if you have kids *Cocktails at Las Cuevas del Sorte (Gignàs 2, Barri Gòtic).
4/23/12 2:28:35 PM
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28 IDEAS
MAKING PLANS A few suggestions about things to do tonight, this weekend, later on...
All ears
Bat Boy, Centre Moral i Cultural de Poblenou, 19th, 20th, 26th and 27th (Sat: 9.30pm, Sun: 6.30pm). €15 in advance. www.joculartheatre.com
The line-up of musicals in theatres along Avinguda Paral-lel often includes a lot of familiar names, but seeing a show here can be frustrating because the translation of the old faves means singing along just isn’t on the cards. But never fear, if you’re in the mood for a night of musical theatre, this month Jocular Theatre Company presents Bat Boy: The Musical. OK, so it’s no Cats or Phantom when it comes to familiarity, but the tale of a small town that has a half-bat/half-boy living in its midst, who has to get by in a world of ‘normal’ people, is described as a cross between My Fair Lady and Edward Scissorhands. In other words, a stonking night out, filled with music, laughs and love.
Up on stage Some of the concerts happening this month in Barcelona
Manic Street Preachers—Wednesday 2nd at Razzmatazz Mad Professor—Wednesday 2nd at Music Hall Roberto Fonseca (above)—Wednesday 9th at Sala Apolo Judas Priest—Wednesday 16th at Sant Jordi Club Bruce Springsteen—Thursday 17th and Friday 18th at the Estadi Olímpic
TALLERS OBERTS SARRIÀ Various venues in Sarrià: Friday 11th to Sunday 13th. http://tallersobertssarria.wordpress.com For the 10th year, the artists and designers of the uptown neighbour-
hood of Sarrià are opening their studios up to the public for a weekend, giving us the chance to meet local painters, sculptors, ceramicists, photographers, illustrators and graphic designers in their places of work. In addition, a mosaic of pieces by those participating will be shown in Casa Orlandai from May 10th to 31st. If you’ve never quite found a reason to head out of the city centre and explore Sarrià, perhaps this creative gettogether will convince you to take the trip.
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IDEAS 29
FESTIVAL ROUND-UP
May sees Barcelona’s festival season really kick off with (at least) five taking place this month. We give you the essential info on each one: SCREEN. Running from May 17th to June 2nd,
Click here
this event dedicated to video art will show more than 1,000 works by 500 artists, both local and foreign. And once more, it incorporates the LOOP fair (May 31st to June 2nd), with 44 city
BarnaClick 2012, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Ramon Trias Fragas 25-27
art galleries participating. www.screen-barcelo-
(Sala Agora). Saturday 12th (10am-8pm) and Sunday 13th (10am-7pm).
na.com
€3; under-12s, free. www.somosclicks.org
NEO. With initials standing for Noves Escenes
Who hasn’t played with Playmobil figures (Clicks, as they’re known here) at some point, whether as parent or child? There’s something so charming about the little characters with three facial features and hands that resemble salad servers. And with their extensive range of themes available, from pirates to knights to lollipop ladies, the age-old concept of something from everybody rings true here. For a major fix of Clicks, head to the city’s annual fair dedicated to these mini people, BarnaClick: see 11 specially created scenes featuring 3,000 different Playmobil figures, take part in a photography competition or get your hands on new and classic pieces from the range.
Obertes (New Open Scenes), this event is dedicated to contemporary, innovative creation. Between May 9th and 13th, venues such as the Mercat de les Flors and the Teatre Lliure will host creatives seeking novel ways to fill artistic spaces, with new media and research the key tools at their command. www.festivalneo.com HUMAN RIGHTS FILM FESTIVAL. The name is pretty much self-explanatory, with this event showcasing documentaries, fiction films and animation, both long and short, that educate about and aim to lead to greater respect for the rights of our fellow men and women. May 17th to 22nd. www.festivaldecinemaidretshumans.cat FICOMIC. Another Barcelona classic returns this month in the form of this festival dedicated to the world of comics. And it’s set to be a special one, with FICOMIC celebrating its 30th anniversary, tying in nicely with the 35th birthday of Star Wars; blowing out the candles will be special guests Julian Glover, Paul Blake and Angus McInnes, who played General Veers
toyz story SWAB Barcelona, Feria de Arte Contempóraneo, May 23rd to 26th; Toyz auction, online now: www.swab.es Barcelona’s contemporary art fair, SWAB, celebrates its fifth edition this year and to mark the occasion, they’re doing something a little bit different with the auction of 100 original pieces of work, such as the little fellow pictured above. Local and international artists and designers, including Mariscal, Isabel Coixet and Jordi Labanda, were commissioned to decorate a ‘Qee’ (the plain white figure created in the Nineties in Hong Kong), with the resulting ‘Toyz’ to be sold off to the highest bidder and proceeds going to the Fundación Lucha contra la SIDA (Fight against AIDS Foundation). While the finished results will be on show during the fair, you can also see recent works by young artists being displayed by around 70 galleries from around the world.
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(The Empire Strikes Back), Greedo (Star Wars) and Gold Leader (Star Wars), respectively. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, give the Fira de Barcelona a big miss between the 3rd and 6th. All the rest of you, you know what you have to do. www.ficomic.com BIOCULTURA BARCELONA 2012. Rejoicing in all that is natural, environmentally-friendly and sustainable, the city’s greenest fair is on once more at the Palau Sant Jordi during the first weekend of the month. Enjoy stalls featuring organic food, make-up and other Earth-conscious products, workshops and fun for children, and an Ecofashion catwalk, where the focus will be on clothing that is most definitely socially responsible. www.biocultura.org
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IDEAS: ART 31
REVIEW
It isn’t the paintings that captivate in the latest exhibition of 15th-century art at the MNAC. By Will Shank.
Pere Sanglada and workshop: Misericòrdia del cor de la catedral de Barcelona. 1394-99
Lluís Borrassà: Taula del Retaule de Sant Pere. Photo: Teresa Llórdes. MdT
Rafael Destorrents: Missal de Santa Eulàlia. 1403. Photo: Guillem F-H
CATALUNYA 1400. EL GÒTIC INTERNACIONAL MNAC. Until July 15th
There is a great deal of local pride on display in this MNAC exhibition.
Missal of Santa Eulalia (1403) from the cathedral of Barcelona is
The theme of cross-fertilisation in the 15th-century art world,
but one example of artistic excellence in this arena. In the MNAC
however, is a bit of a risky one from the point of view of the Catalans.
installation, the missal, whose illumination is by Rafael Destorrents,
The curators have taken a chance by putting so many paintings
is left open at an extraordinary painting of a Last Judgement, with a
on view, because by propping the local artwork up in the context
virtual version placed next to it so that the visitor can view its many
of the true masterpieces that influenced the artists who painted
details in a magnified version.
them, it becomes clear that Catalunya was a cultural outpost during
Where the objects created by Catalan artists really shine (no pun
the extraordinary flowering of art of the Quattrocento elsewhere in
intended) is in their fine silver work. The MNAC exhibition features
Europe, most specifically in Florence and in Siena, and, to a lesser
some jewels from various collections that firmly make this point about
extent, in France. The minimal understanding of human anatomy and
material luxury and technical skill. The first object that the viewer
of a crude one-point perspective does not hold a candle to the work
encounters, in fact, is a stunning fabrication of a silver pod holding
of a Giotto, for instance, or a Simone Martini, who dominated the 14th
peas of cultured pearls. Silver objects of high quality, most of them
century in central Italy. Even after the arrival of the Flemish influence
commissions for the church, fill the first galleries.
in the South, where by the 1430s the example of the exquisite
Other artists working in three dimensions also fare rather better than
rendering of Jan van Eyck and other northern masters inspired
their painter counterparts. For instance, there is the anecdote of Pere
Italians and Spaniards alike, the brushwork of the Catalan masters
Sanglada, the carpenter of Barcelona cathedral, who was sent on a
remains relatively unsure and clumsy. A Last Supper (1430 to 1445)
long journey through northern Europe in order to collect ideas about
from Solsano by Pere Teixidor, for instance, looks like a painting from
what the decorations of a church choir could possibly look like. His
a century earlier than the work of his contemporaries in Florence like
trip ended in Bruges, where he bought a superior type of oak to bring
Ghirlandaio and Botticelli.
back for his work in the cathedral.
On the other hand, in the galleries featuring the illuminated
The exhibition ends on a strong note with more illuminated
manuscripts, the quality matches or exceeds that of anything else
manuscripts and a selection of embroideries, some of them with a
being produced elsewhere in Europe in the same era. An amazing
startling three-dimensionality that is not figurative but literal.
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IDEAS: THEATRE 33
CAN WE TALK ABOUT THIS?
Natasha Young previews this month’s performance by British physical theatre group DV8 at the Mercat de les Flors.
Performers Kim Jomi and Fischer Hannes Langolf. Photo by Oliver Manzi
Are you morally superior to the Taliban? Expect to be asked this question if you see DV8’s confrontational new show about liberal confusion and religious intolerance, Can We Talk About This?, at the Mercat de les Flors this month. DV8 are Britain’s finest physical theatre company. Call it contemporary dance if you must, but if DV8 did pirouettes they’d do them on barbed wire. The group have a reputation for controversy, bravery, exquisite choreography and innovation. They are political, and make no apologies for it. Over the years they’ve tackled everything from disability (watch The Cost of Living on YouTube in wonder) to homophobia, religion, love, ballet and even British pubs. This time it’s lily-livered liberals—the company’s core audience—who take a beating. Can We Talk About This? puts freedom of speech and state-sponsored multiculturalism under the spotlight, and asks, why is it often OK to criticise aspects of Christianity or Judaism but not Islam? When did we become so darn diplomatic? According to Lloyd Newsom, DV8’s founder and chief choreographer, it’s not about being anti-Islam. But when a society feels it can’t criticise aspects of a religion that denies women equal rights, something is very wrong. Respecting someone’s rights is not necessarily the same as respecting their ideas, he argues. Sharia law, Salman Rushdie’s book burnings, the Bradford riots and the murder of Dutch film-maker Theo van Gogh are all tackled here with enactments of interviews (here in English with Catalan subtitles) and real news footage. At the core of this piece is the relationship between words and movement. For Newsom, people aren’t just talking heads, they move too. Think of angry Barça players protesting a penalty and you’ll see his
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point. Here, a dancer slithers and squirms along a wall under the weight of his own political correctness, another illustrates her determination to escape a forced marriage through undulating hand and hip movements alone, and bodies twist as speakers verbally tie themselves in knots. DV8 understand how people move, and express it joyfully and unashamedly. DV8 grew out of a distaste for the stylised rules of ballet and modern dance. Since the launch of the company in 1986, Newsom has gained a fearsome reputation for putting his dancers through gruelling workshops that leave them bloody and bruised, and with the rule book ripped to shreds on the studio floor. It is real life that Newsom wants to choreograph, not the prissy, pristine beauty so often seen at the ballet. In interviews, Newsom has hit out at the world of dance for choreographing by numbers and hanging a loose idea on to some pretty moves and creating a show in a matter of weeks. In contrast, Can We Talk About This? is the result of months of work and interviews with over 50 people plus archive material. Some critics may have sniped that they felt as if they were being preached at during this show but never will you have a political message stuffed down your throat more beautifully. Ultimately, in this messed-up world of ours, Can We Talk About This? is a plea for tolerance and a fine piece of physical theatre. Can We Talk About This? Mercat de les Flors, May 3rd-5th; In English with Catalan subtitles. €14 to €28 www.mercatflors.cat
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34 IDEAS: ESCAPE THE CITY
TAKE A HIKE
With the warm days approaching, it’s time to explore Catalunya’s walking routes. By Max Bentley.
Following the Camí de Sant Jaume to Montserrat © Bessons. Photos courtesy of Agència Catalana de Turisme
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CAMÍ DE SANT JAUME
The Camíno de Santiago is Europe’s oldest, most travelled and most famous walking route, but also a cultural experience that few are likely to enjoy in its entirety. Since the discovery there of the supposed tomb of Saint James, one of Jesus’s disciples, in the year 814, Santiago de Compostela in Galicia has been Europe’s most renowned pilgrimage haven and dedicated hikers from all over the world come to walk all or part of the camino, which is actually made up of a variety of different routes. Stepping onto the scallop shell (the insignia of Saint James) that has been installed in front of Santiago’s majestic cathedral signals a great triumph for all those who have spent days or weeks walking through parts of Spain and France to get there. However, the most popular route, the Camino Francés, is a 780-kilometre trek from St. Jean-Pied-du-Port in southern France to the cathedral and can take almost a month to travel. Consequently, an increasingly popular alternative is to walk the Camí de Sant Jaume (Way of Saint James in Catalan), which traverses the Catalan landscape, capturing its natural beauty and historical significance. The principal 307-kilometre walk between Port de la Selva and Tàrrega, which later connects to the main camino, was declared the first European Cultural Itinerary in 1987 before being named one of UNESCO’S World Heritage sites in 1993. It provides an ideal challenge for lovers of the outdoors at this time of year, with the fresh spring air and long daylight hours. The complete hike, which will take between 12 and 15 days (although it is possible to do the separate sections at different times, of course), begins in the charming fishing village of Port de la Selva. One of the more intense stretches of the walk is that to the nearby iconic Sant Pere de Rodes, a one-time Benedictine monastery which is perched spectacularly in the foothills of the Pyrenees, looking out to sea. According to folklore, the most prized relics of the Holy See, consisting of the right arm and head of Saint Peter along with a bottle containing the blood of Christ, were hidden in a cave on the mountain by order of Pope Boniface IV in the year 610CE, when the Western Roman Empire was under threat of invasion by the Persian army. However, when the relics could not later be found again, three clerics vowed to remain there and consequently built the majestic monastery to honour the missing remnants. Sacred rock carvings follow a Roman path down to Figueres, once a European commercial gateway and birthplace of cult figure Salvador Dalí. Visits to his impressive theatre-museum, the parish church of Sant Pere and the 18th century Castle of Sant Ferran all provide enjoyable viewing whilst taking a break from walking. The 50-kilometre stretch to Girona takes you through beautiful holm oak and beech forests where thousands of endemic plant species will be beginning to flower. Birds of prey may circle overhead as you make the steady descent down to the 11th-century Girona Cathedral, which has the widest Gothic nave in the world. If you have time, why not also visit the Plaça de la Independència, the Church of Sant Feliu and the Gironella Tower? En route to Montserrat, the signposted trail takes you through Amer, the picturesque town of Els Hostalets d’en Bas, L’Esquirol, Vic, the stunning Romanesque monastery of Santa Maria in L’Estany and the Basilica of Santa Maria de la Seu in Manresa. Montserrat itself welcomes visitors with its awe-inspiring serrated mountain range, a popular spot for rock climbers. The Abbey of Montserrat is home to the patroness of Catalunya, La Moroneta, a 12th-century wooden statue of Mary and infant Christ, and is Catalunya’s most visited religious landmark. From here, follow
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IDEAS: ESCAPE THE CITY 35
Sant Pere de Rodes monastery © Jose Luis Rodríguez
the trail down to Tàrrega, at which point the route splits between a northerly way to Alfarras then on to Huesca and Jaca and a southerly option via Lleida and the Ruta del Ebro past Zaragoza; both eventually connect to the Camino Francés at Logroño. To obtain a credencial (€1), the pilgrim’s passport that grants affordable (often free) accommodation along the route and where you can receive official St. James’s stamps, see below.
LA RUTA DEL CISTER
Another route that captures Spain’s religious and cultural history is the Cistercian triangle, which links three of Catalunya’s most significant monasteries. The 105-kilometre trail takes five days to walk, although there are alternative cycling routes available. The journey begins at the Santes Creus monastery, which was founded in 1168 and is home to the royal tombs of Peter the Great, James II, his wife Blanche of Anjou and commander Roger de Lluría. The first stage of the hike snakes through the vineyards, olive and almond fields of Alt Camp to the medieval-walled town of Montblanc. Passing through the Hermitage of Sant Joan, walkers advance to the Way of Holy Trinity to get to the second monastery, Poblet, situated in a green forest that became a Natural Area of National Interest in 1984. The monastery itself has a rich history, as it was the burial-place for the Kings of the Crown of Aragon from Jaume I (1208-76) to Alfonso V (1396-1458). Although the monastery suffered some damage during the First Carlist War (1833-39), the sculptured tombs can still be admired. The final Cistercian landmark is the monastery of Santa Maria de Vallbona, in Urgell. It is renowned as one of the most famous buildings in Catalunya for its two gothic domes and was the only female monastery in the province. For €9, you can enjoy English-speaking guided tours of all the monasteries to learn about their legacies. Happy hiking!
MORE info
Camino de Santiago - www.santiago-compostela.net Camí de Sant Jaume - www.camidesantjaume.cat Credencial - www.camisantjaume.com La Ruta del Cister - www.larutadelcister.info
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36 IDEAS: GASTRONOMY
TWO IS THE MAGIC NUMBER Give your tastebuds a stretch at this ‘Japanese tapas’ restaurant. By Tara Stevens. Photos by Richard Owens.
✪ - NOT WORTH THE TRIP, ✪✪ - COULD IMPROVE, ✪✪✪ - GOOD, ✪✪✪✪ - VERY GOOD, ✪✪✪✪✪ - NOT TO BE MISSED
T
he Raval, let’s face it, is not best known for its fine dining restaurants. And yet, despite the odds, Dos Palillos endures. I went a few weeks ago for the first time since it opened—mainly because my prevailing memory of it was being charged €78 for a couple of tapas and a couple of glasses of wine—and was intrigued to find it full on a blustery, Tuesday night of no import with a 70/30 mix of Catalans versus food tourists. In fact, this time around it didn’t seem quite so eye-wateringly expensive. €55 for the shorter tasting menu not including wine, is not exactly cheap, granted, but it is accessible enough for a treat. Last time I sat at the bar, decorated with old beer crates stacked up in the corners and funky labels plastered onto the walls, and I suspect you can rack up a terrifying bill if you allow yourself to go mad. This time, however, we headed through the chainmail curtains into the womb-like dining room, where a square bar arranged around an open kitchen is home to chefs quietly creating masterpieces. What I liked most about it was that the food was challenging enough to give you a proper experience, but not so weird as to leave you scratching your head and thinking, “what the hell was that?” The pace was careful and service from the several different chefs who will host you through the evening, each with their own specialty, was bang on. Head chef and owner Albert Raurich was Ferran Adrià’s right-hand man at El Bulli for 11 years and it shows in much of the meticulous presentation. The Japanese angle comes from
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his Japanese wife, who personally guided him into the country’s regional cooking and encouraged him to fuse it with the heritage of his own. The result: Japanese tapas, I guess. We begin with four barely-cooked Palamós prawns arranged on a slab of black slate and scattered with just a few grains of sea salt. “Snap off the head, suck the brains, then eat the body,” says the chef who serves us. My companion had an oyster that had been gently poached in sake. He said it was interesting, but would have preferred it raw. I had three baby octopus that had been cooked shabu-shabu style, ie. barely, in a vat of water delicately flavoured with a single bay leaf and a couple of peppercorns, surrounded by a dribble of intensely flavoured mustard sauce. We agreed it was bloody good—tender as butter and punchy as hell—and pretended not to notice they were little babies that we were eating. Little dishes of chawanmushi (steamed custard) topped with the innards of sea urchin—raw, naturally—were smooth and subtle save for the salty tang of the urchin and contrasted nicely with a cluster of tempura-clad whitebait buñuelos topped with a dollop of wasabi. It was all cream and crunch and recalled an interview I did recently with the chef Andoni Aduritz (of the two-starred Mugaritz restaurant in San Sebastian) who assured me the future of food was all in the texture. I believe Andoni on most things, but this seemed to confirm it. A small bamboo steamer contained little gyoza (Japanese dumplings) stuffed with shitake and scallions and topped with black sesame that we dipped in soy. The flavours were big and
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IDEAS: GASTRONOMY 37
earthy, almost meaty, and moved us neatly into the DIY sushi course. Large lozenges of belly tuna (I didn’t check the provenance), a square stack of nori seaweed, sushi rice, soy and wasabi were a smart, interactive touch and so we competed for who could make the best one. Not me, alas! And then came a large platter of simply sautéed vegetables: baby carrots and asparagus, spring peas, mustard sprouts, straw mushrooms and jasmine flowers in a light, brothy dressing. Funnily enough it was almost the star of the show—not least for the novelty of being served a simple dish of vegetables in a place like this —but also because it put an emphasis on the luxury of pristine freshness. The final course was a skewer of chicken in a honey glaze speckled with Szechuan pepper, cooked just enough to be silky and evidently enough to sate me. I’m afraid I can’t remember what we had for dessert but I’m willing to bet if the rest of the night is anything to go by, it was fairly close to perfect. Follow Tara’s gourmet musings on Twitter: @taralstevens
Dos Palillos, Carrer d’Elisabets 9 (Raval). Tel. 93 304 0513, www.dospalillos.com. Open Tue-Wed 7.30-11.30pm; Thu-Sat 1.30-3.30pm, 7.30-11.30pm. Closed Sun & Mon. Tasting menus €55 (short), €70 (long). Wine not included. Tara’s rating: ✪✪✪✪
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38 IDEAS: GASTRONOMY
quick bites
CARLOTA AKANEYA, ANOTHER APPROACH TO JAPANESE FOOD
Image credits: Top—photos by Tashoma Lemard; bottom—courtesy Carlota Akaneya
By Tara Stevens.
S
ushi has been big in Barcelona for several years. Given the Spanish penchant for spanking fresh fish, it’s no wonder it works well as a concept here, but the panoply of the rest of Japanese kitchen has remained mysteriously elusive. There are a couple of Izakaya (the Japanese take on the pub), but where are the Soba and Ramen bars, the Yakitori and the Sukiyaki joints? Enter Carlota Akaneya, Barcelona’s first authentic Hibachi grill, which is fuelled by a particular type of white charcoal called binchotan, giving anything grilled above it a distinctive sweet and smoky taste. Trust me, it is as good as it sounds, especially with buttery lozenges of pure Kobe beef thrown on top of it. Hibachi was traditionally used as a heating device, first made from wood lined with clay and later using ceramics and metal. A similar device used specifically for cooking was called shichirin, but it is thought hibachi stuck in North America and Europe because it was easier to pronounce. Either way, it’s a wonderfully
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social style of barbecuing and Carlota Akaneya does it extremely well, offering several different-sized tables, round and oblong, each with a hibachi grill in its centre. Like their Japanese counterparts, these are lined with ceramic and the charcoal is brought to the table to smoulder away while you choose from an array of ingredients to cook yourself: fresh vegetables cut into bite-sized pieces, seafood and fish, meat in all its guises including perfect squares of the densely marbled Kobe beef from the Wagyū breed of cattle. It’s priced considerably higher than local cuts, but if you’ve not tried it, it’s worth pushing the boat out for a taste of it here. Using the tongs provided, place it on the grill for about 30 seconds, turn and revel in the sensation of it literally melting to nothing on your tongue. Carlota Akaneya, Pintor Fortuny 32 (Raval). Tel. 93 302 7768, www.carlotaakaneya.com. Open daily 1-4pm, 7.30-11.30pm
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T
he new wine temple in Born – a unique space in Barcelona offering a wide range of quality wines.
Opened this year, come and enjoy the cosy, local and well-laid-out bar, along with the stylish wooden interior with shelves full of original and interesting wines. A place to totally relax and disconnect. Affordable to all, the bar contains wines from all over the world, and specialises in Spanish, French and Portuguese wines. The waiters will happily explain the origin and characteristics of each wine, while the wine menu changes every 15 days so you’ll never get bored. To accompany the wines, the bar offers a variety of starters and main dishes. These include steak sautéed with pepper rolls, crispy Camembert with berry jam, a cheese platter and mi-cuit with figs and balsamic vinegar. Disset 17 also has a special range of gin and tonics and vodka tonics, as well as whiskeys, beers and other beverages.
Carrer Antic de St Joan 3, 08003 · Tel. 93 268 1987 · Open from Tue-Sun 7pm-2.30am
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40 FOOD & DRINK
Food&Drink For more in food&drink visit our online directory www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/eating-and-drinking under 20 | 20-30 | 30-40 | over 40 RV Reservation Advised | NEW in food & drink this month
NEFW &D IN
Bar
American
biergarten4Les Corts
THE ORIGINAL AMERICAN SUPERMARKET 4Sant Gervasi Good news from Taste of America! All of the products you miss from the U.S.A., from BBQ sauces to breakfast treats, are now in Barcelona. Cheerios, Hershey’s chocolates, peanut butter and jelly, Newman’s Own sauces, Wilton, root beer, Peperidge Farm, marshmallows, macaroni & cheese, bagels and more are just some of the goodies that await discovery. Go visit, you’ll be amazed! And for your convenience, there is public parking right at the rear of the store! New opening in Sant Cugat! Balmes 322 I FGC Sant Gervasi I Tel. 93 211 9792 C/Plana Hospital 18 I FGC Sant Cugat Tel. 93 187 5070
PINK ELEPHANT 4EIXAMPLE E Barcelona’s first contemporary American restaurant and cocktail bar, now in their fourth year, invite you to indulge your senses. All menu items are made to order and their desserts are baked on the premises by an American chef. To complement your visit, browse their selection of wine and beer from the U.S. including the latest additions from the Brooklyn Brewery.
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
To celebrate the eighth year of the Biergarten, the first traditional German terrace in Barcelona, why don’t you and your friends try the real taste of Bavaria? The space recreates the legendary beer gardens, with German music, typical Bavarian food and beer, wooden benches and excellent service from waiters wearing costumes from the region. The Biergarten is the ideal place to come and have a great time while watching your favourite football.
NEFW &D IN
Pl. Pius XII, 4 I Metro Mª Cristina Tel. 93 5081 000/676 477 094 psofiabiergarten@expogrupo.com www.princesasofia.com Open every day from noon to midnight
MANCHESTER BAR4Barri gÒtic Manchester Bar brings together friends and music fans to enjoy great tunes from the Eighties and Nineties. From Joy Division to Placebo to The Smiths and all the way through to the Happy Mondays, Manchester Bar have it all. A must-visit place for anyone who knows and loves their music! Milans 5 | Metro Jaume I | Every day 7pm-3am Tel. 627 733 081 | www.manchesterbar.com
BOLLOCKS BAR4Barri gÒtic The quintessential rock bar in downtown Barcelona. Covered in posters and graffiti from top to bottom, the bar has the air of an abandoned subway station where daily riffs and whiskey bring together all those who carry rock & roll in their blood. Ample 46 | Metro Jaume I | Every day 7pm-3am Tel. 663 710 095 | www.bollocksbcn.com
Bagels BE MY BAGEL 4GRÀCIA Do you dream of great bagels? Then Be My Bagel is the right place for you. They sell authentic bagels from Barcelona, just how you like them. They have an extensive range of bagels and cakes, from the more classic choices such as poppy and multigrain to delicious and innovative chocolate, almond and coconut bagels - you’ll not come away disappointed.
Planeta 37 (Pl. del Sol) I Metro L3 Fontana and Gràcia I Tel. 93 518 7151 I bemybagel@gmail.com Open from Mon-Fri 9.30-2pm and 5pm-8.30pm, Sat 10am-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm, Sun 10.30am-2pm
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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
Muntaner 7 | Metro Universitat Tel. 93 453 6445 | www.7sinsbar.com Mon-Sun 1pm till late | RV
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FOOD & DRINK 41 gourMeT eXPreSS4 BarceLona
FLaHerTY'S4Barri GÒtic Since it was established in 2001, Flaherty’s has become one of Barcelona’s best known and busiest Irish pubs. By offering food all day from 10am til midnight (including our popular Full Irish Breakfast as well as group menus), live satellite sports on big screens, WiFi, a sunny terrace and a pool room where you can also play darts, not to mention its very spacious premises, Flaherty’s has rightly become known as the pub that has it all!
‘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.
Plaça Joaquim Xirau | Metro Drassanes Tel. 93 412 6263
Pasaje Milans 28 | Tel. 93 260 0789 www.gourmet-express.es
PiM PaM Burger4Born
ViTaLi PiZZa4 BarceLona
Burger
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.
Gourmet pizza delivery from 3 locations offering 50+ thin-crust, homemade pizzas. With specials like three large cheese pizzas for 15 and the option to pay by credit card, it makes for an affordable meal at home without all the fuss. Special offer: 2X1 on every Monday home delivery!
Paris 109 I Metro Hospital Clinic Tel. 93 444 4737 Rosselló 270 I Tel. 93 458 0710 Taxdirt 13 I Metro Joanic/Gracia Tel. 93 285 41 95 www.vitalipizza.com
Sabateret 4 - Bor I Metro Jaume I Tel. 93 315 2093 I burger@pimpamplats.com Calle Bigai 1, Bonanova, 08022 I Tel. 93 211 5606 www.pimpamburger.com I Every day 1pm-12am
Cocktails LiLiBurger4eiXaMPLe
PaLau daLMaSeS CoCKTaiL Bar4 Barri GÒtic At the heart of La Ribera neighbourhood, on Carrer Montcada, the Dalmases Palace is one of the most notable city palaces from the 16th century. This gorgeous palace of Baroque influence is a testimony to the artistic, political and cultural life of Catalunya. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the most exciting cocktails, and they also have the best opera music live every Tuesday to Saturday at 8pm.
NEFW &D IN
Monctada 20 I Tel. 93 310 0673 espaibarroc@gmail.com I Open every day from 7pm
delivery
Tel. 93 458 0710 I Tue-Sun1pm-4pm and 7pm-11pm www.liliburger.com
international BeLgiouS 4Barri GÒtic With the most original 50 flavours on the planet, Belgious’s HighDefinition Ice-Cream provides a universe of new sensations. Their other products include authentic savoury crepes, waffles from Brussels and full-flavour exotic juices from Brazil, including the famous Açai natigela. Gotico - Avinyo 50 I Metro Liceu I Tel. 93 501 9020 Rambla de Poble Nou - Taulat 83 I Metro Poblenou I Tel.93 127 0333 For opening hours consult www.belgious.com
Bread & CirCuSeS BarCeLona 4GrÀcia
giLda BY BeLgiouS4 Barri GÒtic
Bread & Circuses creates delicious, inexpensive, creative sandwiches showcasing American technique and style combined with incredible Catalan ingredients. The first truly American-style sandwich shop and delivery service in Barcelona. Try our lunch box special for your office, picnic in the park or day at the beach. Follow us on Facebook.
Open for just a year, Belgious’s new restaurant concept has already become a reference in the Gothic quarter, famous for its Belgian-Spanish tapas and fusion cuisine with ice-cream. During the week, they surprise their visitors with exquisite daily menu offerings. At night, you can start the evening with various Belgian draught beers then continue with some tapas, or how about their famous Flemish beef stew? Check them out, you won’t be disappointed!
Congost 13, 08024 I Metro Gracia Tel. 610 898 494 I Delivery from 1pm-4pm
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You can choose from four types of burger: classic, cheeseburger, barbecue as well as bacon cheese, for 8 to 9.50. Sides include fries, bbq chicken wings, chicken nuggets and salads. Free delivery.
Ample 34 I Tel.93 310 3492 Open Mon-Fri 1pm-4pm, Every day from 7pm-12am www.gildabybelgious.com
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42 FOOD & DRINK iCHo4LeS cortS
guT4GrÀcia
Icho restaurant blends authentic Japanese cooking with the best Mediterranean products. This is an unequalled, exquisite and innovative gastronomic option, totally unique in Barcelona. The tasting menu is pure gastronomy fantasy—you will delight in an emotional journey beyond your senses. This restaurant breaks the mould of the existing impressions of modern Japanese gastronomy in Spain.
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.
Deu i Mata 69-95, 08029 | Metro Maria Cristina Tel. 93 444 3370 | reserves@ichobcnjapones.com www.ichobcnjapones.com Mon-Sat ,1.30pm-4pm and 9pm-11.30pm
Perill 13 I Metro Diagonal Tel. 93 186 6360 I restaurantgut@gmail.com
ice Cream Shop SUSHIEXPRESS4eIXAMPle
BeLLaMia HeLaderia iTaLiana4Born
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.
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 rave reviews from everyone who’s tried it.
Consell de Cent 255 | Tel. 93 451 5454 Open 12pm-4pm, 7pm-11pm 365days/year! Delivery 1pm-3pm, 8pm-10.30pm
Epaseria 14 | Metro Jaume I | Tel. 93 310 4210 1pm-midnight (50m from Santa Maria del Mar)
Japanese - Sushi
indian SaKura-Ya4LeS cortS Sakura-Ya is a serene-yet-busy little joint that combines a Japanese restaurant, bar, souvenir shop and food store. Located in L’illa shopping centre, at lunchtime it offers the very best traditional Japanese cuisine and take-away. The quality of the food is excellent, and so is the service. SakuraYa definitely lives up to its standards, so whenever you are in the mood for some shopping and good food, treat yourself to a Sakura-Ya experience.
Centre comercial l’illa Diagonal planta el rebost Diagonal 557, 08029 | Metro Mª Cristina/Les Corts Tel. 93 405 2645/93 430 48 90 | Fax. 93 430 3743 Restaurant Mon-Thurs 1pm-5pm, 6pm-9.30pm, Fri-Sat 1pm-9.30pm Shop Mon-Sat 9.30am-9.30pm
ToYo - SuSHi Train4GrÀcia Among the youth it’s the most sought after Sushi Train Restaurant in Barcelona. It’s the absolute place to be if you’re in with the in crowd and always packed five minutes after opening. It has a quality buffet with super fresh food prepared daily, Toyo is the place to go. Not only do they have a huge amount of different types of dishes, but you can also eat as much as your heart desires. Choose what you like while it passes in front of you, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get great service. Toyo gives you amazing food for a good price. The midday menu is only 10 and the evening one is 15. Torrent del Olla 10 | T. 93 459 2630 www.restaurantetoyo.com Open 1.30pm-4pm, 8.30pm-Midnight Closed Mon night
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nirVana4eiXaMPLe Located in the heart of Barcelona, Nirvana is a relaxed and intimate place, inspired by the refined esthetics of Oriental culture with modernist touches. They provide an original mix of Indian style and the latest trends from the world’s major capitals, creating a special environment that transports you to a place of feelings, tastes and nuances that make any visit to Nirvana an unforgettable experience. From noon, you can enjoy a creative menu that combines a selection of traditional Indian flavours with Mediterranean cuisine, and features exquisite details of Oriental cuisine. Later on, enjoy their Club Lounge where Nirvana offers excellent service in an area designed for you to enjoy a varied menu of drinks and cocktails, as well as a live event or show.
Pau Claris 96 | Metro Passeig de Gràcia | Tel. 93 270 3585 | reservas@nirvanabcn.com www.nirvanabcn.com | Mon-Fri 1pm-4pm, Mon-Sun 8pm-3am
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FOOD & DRINK 43 JuiCY JoneS 4Barri GÒtic
naKaSHiTa4Born 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.
Barcelona’s emblematic juice bar now also serves vegan breakfast that includes tortilla de patata, muesli with raw cashew yogurt, muffins, waffles, coffee and tea. Chill out in the bar for smoothies or enjoy a sandwich or a full meal in the restaurant.
Cardenal Casañas 7 | Metro Liceu | Tel. 93 302 4330 Every day 10am-Midnight
Mediterranean BarnaBier4Port oLÍMPic
Rec Comtal 15 | Metro Arc De Triomf, Tel. 93 295 5378 | www.nakashitabcn.com Mon-Sun 1.30pm-4.30pm, 8.30pm-12am
Located at the base of the Mapfre tower at Port Olimpic Barnabier specialise in Mediterranean cuisine, paellas, fresh seafood, tapas and have a great list of international beers. Their fantastic menu also includes salads, grilled meat and pasta with something to suit all tastes. For group reservations consult their website for the complete menu. Marina 16 | Metro Port Olimpic Tel. 93 221 0212 | www.barnabier.com
MagnoLia 4 Barri GÒtic
naMaSTe4eIXAMPle e Namaste was the first Indian restaurant in Barcelona. You will be able to enjoy authentic North Indian food in a lavish and exotically decorated interior. The secret of Namaste’s rich and authentic cuisine lies in the finest selection of delicate condiments cooked by professional Indian chefs, using the Tandoor cylindrical oven of Northern India—the best oven for keeping the juices and flavours of cooked food. Namaste has also carefully selected the best wines to accompany Indian food, including Indian wines. For beer lovers, Namaste has a wide range of European brands and Indian beers and liquors.
In the heart of the Gothic quarter, Magnolia offers exquisite signature cuisine from chef Gianni Fusco at affordable prices. With its warm and loungy interior, it is the place of choice at any time of the day. During the week, breakfast and lunch menus attract huge crowds thanks to their great quality and reasonable prices. During the afternoon, clients can choose from a variety of tapas or enjoy mojitos for just 3.50. Breakfast from 2.70, Lunch from 9, Dinner menu 17.95 (Sun-Thurs) 25 (Fri-Sat) Ciutat 5 | Metro Jaume I | 93 304 2376 | 691 504 942 noche@magnoliabarcelona.com | www.magnoliabarcelona.com | www.facebook.com/magnolia.rna Mon-Thurs 9am-1am, Fri 9am-3am, Sat 1pm-3am, Sun 1pm-1am
Villarroel 70 | Tel. 93 451 4027 www.restaurantenamaste.com Open 1pm-4 pm, 8pm-12pm
indian - Hindu Veg WorLd india4 GrÀcia 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.
Bruniquer 26 | Metro Plaça Joanic Tel. 93 210 7056 | Tues-Sun 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11.30pm
Juice and Smoothie Bar Sano 4GrÀcia Barri GÒtic - SantS 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.
Gran de Gràcia 16 | Metro Diagonal Tel. 93 217 8115 | Jaume 1 | Metro Jaume I Tel. 93 310 3247 | Creu Coberta 50 Metro Espanya | Tel. 93 117 0891 Every day 10am-8pm | info@sanojuice.com | www.sanojuice.com
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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. 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
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44 FOOD & DRINK Mediterranean BOO4POBLENOU
JUICY JONES – VEGAN RESTAURANT 4Raval
BOO Restaurant has a privileged location on the coast of Barcelona and it’s the perfect space to organise meetings between friends, business meetings, events, etc. Boo has daily activities, weekend, daytime and evening entertainment, group bookings and special events. In Boo Restaurant you can enjoy the best Mediterranean cuisine in its two restaurants: The Restaurant and Boo Mirador and they have different options for groups and vegetarians as well as special cocktail and snack menus.
Barcelona’s best 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! Hospital 74 | Metro Liceu | Tel. 93 443 9082 Everyday 12pm-17pm, 20pm-01am
Vietnamese la vietnamita 4GRÀCIA La Vietnamita is a new food concept in the heart of Gràcia - offering fresh and healthy Vietnamese inspired cuisine. They offer light and nutritious dishes such as traditional ‘Pho’ soup, the typical rice noodle dish ‘Bun Xiau’ and classic ‘Goi Cuon’ spring rolls. All their dishes are prepared in the moment and served with ingredients that are naturally full of flavour. Veggies and vegans: They have a lot to offer you, too! So what are you waiting for?
Nova Mar Bella Beach, S/N, Espigó de Bac de Roda 1 Metro Poblenou (L4) | Tel. 93 225 0100 info@elboo.es | www.elboo.es Tue-Sat 12pm-2.30pm, Sun,12pm-18pm Closed Sun and Mon night.
Torrent de L’Olla 78 | Metro Diagonal | Tel. 93 518 1803 | www.lavietnamita.com
Fabula4Poble Sec Located in a trendy new area of the city, this restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine using the freshest market ingredients as well as a fantastic wine list with wines selected from over 17 D.Os. They have a great three-course menu del día for 10.20 and at night you can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes and half rations from La Carta. Their special ‘After work’ promotion lets you enjoy their Cocktail of the day + tapa for 4.50 between 5pm and 9pm, Monday to Friday. They also have a private room that is available for group bookings.
Parlament 1 | Metro Poble Sec | Tel. 93 292 6209 info@restaurantefabula.es | www.restaurantefabula.es
Thai Thai gracia4GRÀCIA 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 día 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.
Còrsega 381 | Metro Verdaguer / Girona Tel. 93 459 3591 | www.restaurante-thai-gracia.com Every day 1pm-4pm, 8pm-12am | RV
Vegetarian
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.
Sagristans 3 | Metro Urquinaona | Tel. 93 301 1378 | www.bunbovietnam.com Every day 1pm-1am
Winebar amaltea4EIXAMPLE E
Disset 17 Graus4BORN
Diputació 164 | Metro Urgell | Tel. 93 454 8613 | www.amalteaygovinda.com Mon-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11pm, Closed Sun
The new wine temple in Born—a unique space in Barcelona offering a wide range of quality wines. Just opened, you can come and enjoy the cosy, local and welllaid-out bar, surrounded by shelves full of original and interesting wines. Affordable to all, the bar offers wines from all over the world, specialising in Spanish, French and Portuguese wines. Also don’t forget the special drinks menu of gin and tonics, cocktails, whiskies, beers and other drinks.
Visit Amaltea vegetarian restaurant, where a warm and welcoming environment allows you to fully enjoy a tasty and healthier alternative to your everyday meal. Dishes include cereals, pulses and vegetables with home-made puddings. The cuisine is creatively international with care taken to ensure that each meal is well-balanced and made with the freshest ingredients. Menu of the day 10.70, night and weekend menu 15.30.
Govinda (VEGETARIAN) 4BARRI GÒTIC
Founded 25 years ago, Govinda continues to thrive on a blend of experience and fresh innovation in vegetarian Indian cuisine. The international menu features talis, a salad bar, natural juices, lassis, pizzas and crêpes. Govinda offers a vegan-friendly, nonalcoholic and authentically-decorated environment with lunch and weekend menus.
Placa Villa de Madrid 4-5 | Metro Catalunya | Tel. 93 318 7729 www.amalteaygovinda.com |Tue-Sat 1pm-4pm, 8pm-11am, Sun-Mon 1pm-4pm
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Bun bo ViÊtnam4Barri Gòtic
Carrer Antic de St Joan 3 Tel. 93 268 1987 | Tue-Sun 7pm-2.30am
4/23/12 2:12:18 PM
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4/23/12 2:12:18 PM
HAIRDRESSER · BEAUTY
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 45
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
*READER DISCOUNT
* Discount for Metropolitan readers. Check our website for details.
Kinki - HAIRDRESSER
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 Toni & 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.
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
Carrer Viladomat 45-47, Atico M. 633 382 787 timbulmer@btinternet.com www.scissorsofldn.com
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 / M. 692 371 307 Raval, C/Sant Pau 122 T. 93 441 3177 / M. 692 371 308 El Born, C/Carders 34 T.93 295 4871 / M. 692 371 404 Gòtic, C/Avinyó 34 T. 93 301 4513 / M. 692 371 405 www.anthonyllobet.com
Pescateria 8, Born T. 93 315 0980 Metro: Barceloneta (L4) Open Mon 2pm-8pm; Tues-Sat 11am-8pm
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46 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
CHEMIST · MASSAGE · VETERINARY CLINIC · DOCTORS · DENTISTS
Pharmacy Serra Mandri
The Vital Touch -
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 Clinic helps stressed women and men, to relax, energise, re-balance and improve their health and lifestyle with a therapeutic, holistic full-body massage. - Deep tissue massage with Japanese acupressure points. - Helps relieve tension, reduces stress and removes physical strains. - Hot stone massage also available - Central Barcelona location. *20% off for Metropolitan readers.
CHEMIST
Av. Diagonal 478 Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) Chemist T. 93 416 1270 Homeopathy T. 93 217 3249 Open every day 9am-10pm
*READER DISCOUNT
M. 659 995 657 nunu@thevitaltouch.es www.tvtbarcelona.com
VeterCat Melisa Oddo
Bonavet - VETERINARY CLINIC
The best at-home veterinary care for your pet in the province of Barcelona. French and English-speaking veterinarian. Vaccination, general medicine, behaviour problems, emergencies, etc. Thanks to her love for animals, Melisa Oddo offers you the best vet service in your home. Try it for yourself and be impressed.
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 stock 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 a trim.
HOME VET CARE
M. 620 157 753 melisa@vetercat.es www.vetercat.es
Dr. Steven Joseph - DOCTOR Established in 2005, Googol Medical Centre offers its patients comprehensive healthcare in a friendly, discreet and relaxed environment. UK doctor Steven Joseph provides a wide range of medical care for the English-speaking community in Barcelona with access to all medical specialties and tests.
Plaça Bonanova 10 T. 93 211 0204
Dr. Christian Eickhoff deutsche zk - DENTIST Highly recommended among the international community, they use the latest in dental technology like digital prosthetics 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.
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
Consell de Cent 249, bajos Metro Universitat (L1/L2) T. 93 323 9629 info@deutsche-zk.com
Mary D. McCarthy - DOCTOR
Dra. Susana Campi - DENTIST
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.
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.
Aribau 215 Pral. 1a T. 93 200 2924 M. 607 220 040 FGC Diagonal or Gràcia
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MASSAGE
Rosselló 95, local, 08029, Barcelona Metro: Hospital Clinic (L5) Entença (L5) T. 93 322 9114 Fax. 93 322 0220 campi@coec.net
4/23/12 2:22:47 PM
DENTISTS · ACUPUNCTURE · HERBAL PRODUCTS · NUTRITIONIST · PSYCHOTHERAPY
Tingsvall & McCarthy -
Dr. J. Vilallonga - AMERICAN
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 with Bright Smile. Together, they aim to provide a relaxing and pleasant experience for the patient.
Doctor Vilallonga and his staff boast many years professional experience and use the most modern technology in an international level in order to offer definitive and results of maximum quality. Don’t allow a dental problem to ruin your life; the time to enjoy life has begun.
DENTIST
DENTIST
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
Pi i Gibert 34-36, 1º 1ª 08930 Sant Adria de Besos T. 93 381 1864 M. 659 443 583 drvilallonga@hotmail.com
InnOrbit - HERBAL PRODUCTS
Ana Barredo - NUTRITIONIST
Their infusions taste delicious and complement a healthy lifestyle. They have created four blends using 100 percent naturally-grown herbs and spices. The recipes are based on Ayurvedic medicine and endorsed by modern science. UP&GO: Ideal for sport and exercise. YOUNG&FUN: Enhances memory and promotes concentration. CALM&RELAX: Relieves stress. SLIM&FIT: Helps to maintain a healthy weight.
Do you want to improve your nutritional health? Ana can help you, as a nutritionist with many years of experience. All you need is a consultation and if you want, she can monitor your progress. Change your lifestyle and improve your health, because we are what we eat!
T. 93 814 0287 andy@innorbit.com www.innorbit.com
Sant Hermenegild 26, 4o 2a 08006 M. 679 743 274. ana.bm79@gmail.com
Eugenia Espinosa -
Tania Spearman -
PSYCHOTHERAPY
acupuncture
Make acupuncture your first choice, not your last resort! Tania is offering all Metropolitan readers a 35% discount on first appointments with this voucher. Acupuncture treats many conditions from pain, stress and depression to fertility and more. Call now to make your appointment or to see if acupuncture is right for you. Tania is a UK university trained acupuncturist with her own clinic in the centre of Barcelona. English, Spanish and German spoken.
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.
Enric Granados 133, 4-1 bis 08008 M. 644 322 161 info@taniaspearman.com www.taniaspearman.com
M. 677 090 479 genaespinosa@yahoo.com
Hestia - PSYCHOTHERAPY
NEST - NETWORK OF ENGLISH SPEAKING THERAPISTS
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 2 Metro: Joanic (L4) T. 93 459 2802 info@hestia.es www.hestia.es a
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY 47
Network of English Speaking Therapists Established in 2000
NEST is a dedicated multi-disciplinary team of English-speaking therapists who provide professional services to individuals, families, schools and companies. Established in 2000, their highlyqualified, licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and psychiatrists offer outstanding services in English and several other languages. For more details on their practitioners, visit their website or see their advertisement in the main pages. www.barcelonanest.com
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48 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
PSYCHOTHERAPY · MIDWIFE · LASER TREATMENT · INTERIOR DESIGN · CARPENTRY · ARCHITECTS
Jonathan Lane Hooker -
Nick Cross - PSYCHOLOGIST /
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.
Nick Cross is a registered psychologist, specialising in psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can help you with the causes of distress and unhappiness and it provides treatment for anxiety, fears, relationship difficulties, depression, problems adjusting, loss and trauma.
T. 93 590 7654 M. 639 579 646 jonathan.hooker@yahoo.com www.jonathanhooker.com
M. 644 193 825 ncross@copc.es
Paloma Azpilicueta -
Krishinda Powers Duff
English-speaking clinical psychologist and psychotherapist. Forty years of professional experience with adults, children and adolescents. She has worked in both the public and private sectors in mental health as well as in education and social issues. Psychodynamic orientation.
Krishinda is a fully-qualified and trained British midwife offering home birth and home dilatation service. She also provides antenatal and postnatal care and support to mothers and babies for six weeks after birth. She is supported in her practice by a team of Spanish but British-trained midwives and alternative health care professionals as well as a breast feeding consultant/Doula. Midwife means ‘to be with woman’.
Barcelona: T. 93 415 6646 Mataro: T. 93 799 6596 solazpi@ya.com www.centrepsicologiamataro.com
M. 665 143 437
Clustermedica Laser treatment
Graham Collins -
The B-Cure laser provides relief and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic problems in the neck, back and joints that generally result from bad posture, excessive use of a computer keyboard or sports injuries. Now you can stop pain and heal the source with just a six-minute treatment, twice a day. It’s ready to use anywhere, lightweight and rechargeable. If you’re suffering from this type of injury, then call now or visit their website for more information.
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.
Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist
T. 90 210 6989 Vidal i Guash 13 clustermedica@clustermedica.com www.clustermedica.com
Bsc Hons - Midwife
Marenostrum Centre de Salut familiar
Fontanella 16 Principal, 08010 krishinda@gmail.com
Interior Design
Consolat del Mar 35, 3er Metro: Barceloneta (L4) M. 678 757 511 grahamcollinsbcn@gmail.com
Terraza Barcelona -
Advalua - ARCHITECTS
Dirk has a passion for creating affordable carpentry designs for both interior and exterior spaces. From terrace decks to planters, pergolas to storage sheds, he will impress you with the quality of his work. Wooden furniture for: garden, terrace, balcony, living, bedroom, bathroom, office - you name it, he makes it! Everything is custom made - choose from one of his designs or bring your own ideas. Please contact Dirk for an obligation-free quotation.
Advalua is a team of architects and professionals that can find and/or reform the property for sale or rent that you’re looking for, whether to live or work in. They offer a complete range of services: they inspect and evaluate properties; carry out renovation estimates and projects as well as coordinate all the work to be done; process the permits, technical documents and everything you need.
M. 657 452 279 info@terrazabarcelona.es www.terrazabarcelona.es
M.693 726 721 www.advalua.com info@advalua.com
CaRpentry
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PSYCHOTHERAPIST
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REMOVALS · PROPERTY · INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL · LANGUAGE SCHOOLS
Van - Removals
Corase - REMOVALS
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.
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.
T. 93 426 7684 M. 647 533 344 www.vanbcn.com
Lugaris - PROPERTY The best option to live and work in Barcelona. Brand new, modern furnished and bright apartments. In Poblenou, a few metres from Bogatell beach and very close to the 22@ district. Privileged services such as swimming pool, parking, security, cleaning and free WI-FI, to make your stay more confortable. Use this promotional code to get 10% off your next booking. Code: 20CM12 Vidal y Valenciano, 14 T. 93 221 9159 info@lugaris.com www.lugaris.com
Spaces for rent - PROPERTY Hotel Onix offer a range of rooms and spaces for rent at a low price. Perfect for a variety of classes and events like yoga, theatre, dancing, business meetings, seminars and rehearsals. They have different sized rooms at Liceu, Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Espanya that are both clean and comfortable with central heating, A/C, tables and chairs to suit your needs. You can rent their space by the hour, half or full day, weeks or months. For more information please call Jubran.
Av. Diagonal 249 Metro: Monumental (L2) T. 90 070 2270 (free) info@mudanzascorase.es www.mudanzascorase.es
Aspasios Rentals & Services - PROPERTY Staying at Aspasios in Barcelona and Madrid is the perfect way to enjoy Spain. Feel at home in a new city while staying in a luxurious furnished apartment. Aspasios provides accommodation for days, months or years. They offer check-in at any time and day of the year as well as a 24hr phone service. Aspasios has multicultural staff willing to welcome you in different languages. Adriana Romero T. 93 304 1448 info@aspasios.com www.aspasios.com
Benjamin Franklin -
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL The Benjamin Franklin International School in Barcelona offers a differentiated American curriculum from nursery to grade 12, which includes English language preparation for college education, foreign language programs and learning support. It is fully accredited with strong academic programs, such as the American High School Diploma, Spanish Baccalaureate Certificate and the IB Diploma. It also has an active parent-teacher association and a welcoming global community.
T. 93 303 4154 events@hotelsonix.com
Martorell i Peña 9 T. 93 434 2380 F. 93 417 3633 www.bfischool.org
One-to-One -
BCN Metropol LANGUAGE SCHOOL
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.
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.
SPANISH CLASSES
M. 610 057 266
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T. 93 301 8241 Pau Claris 87, 1o1a Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4) www.bcnmetropol.com
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50 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
LANGUAGE SCHOOLS · TRANSLATION/INTERPRETATION · COMPUTERS · SAILING COURSES
BCN L.I.P. - LANGUAGE SCHOOL 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.
Versión Original -
Spanish for foreigners
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.
T. 93 318 6591 info@bcnlip.com www.bcnlip.com
Gran Via 636, 1o 1a A Metro: Passeig de Gràcia (L2, L3, L4) T. 93 412 4576 info@versionoriginalbcn.com www.versionoriginalbcn.com
Kingsbrook -
Análoga Traducciones -
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.
Análoga offers you a wide range of quality services: · Translations: Specialised native translators. · Legally-certified translations: Official translators appointed by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation. · Interpreting: Qualified professional interpreters. Rental and installation of equipment for simultaneous interpreting.
TRANSLATION AND INTERPRETING
LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Trav. de Gràcia 60 Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) T. 93 209 3763 info@kingsbrookbcn.com www.kingsbrookbcn.com
Paseo de Gracia 122, 3º 1ª Metro: Diagonal (L3, L5) T. 93 412 4618 info@analoga.es www.analoga.es
Idiomplus-
MULTIMEDIA LANGUAGE SCHOOL Idiomplus offers a revolutionary new method of learning languages by utilising social media as an additional online tool so you can learn the content you are most interested in. Their courses are designed especially for professionals, entrepreneurs and managers who require the command of new languages. By practising with relevant content and conversations that fit your interests and work needs you will quickly be able to put your new skills into practical use. T. 93 445 1791 Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 583 5ª www.Idiomplus.com info@idiomplus.com
Geo Mac - COMPUTERS George Cowdery is a freelance Mac technician who has been providing valuable support to the Mac community in Barcelona for over 15 years. Among the services he offers, George can help clients with maintenance and upgrades, hard drive replacement and ADSL setup. He can also provide consulting and tutorials according to his clients’ needs.
M. 606 308 932 machelp@geomac.es www.geomacbcn.com
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MT Sailing - SAILING COURSES RYA Sailing and powerboat courses. Always wanted to get on the water, but didn’t know how? Now you can! MT Sailing is an RYA training centre right here in Barcelona, offering theory and practical courses at all levels from Start Yachting or Powerboat all the way to professional Yachtmaster Ocean. Internationally recognized qualifications are taught and examined in English. During classes, support is available in Spanish. Their flexible course schedules include intensive, weekend and evenings. To discuss your sailing ambitions, call Michael 695 806 029 or Stephen 646 654 067. Start your adventure today!
T. 695 806 029/646 654 067 sail@mtf.com www.mtf.com.
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COMPUTERS · DESIGN · MUSIC · TELEVISION SERVICES
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 51
ZumoSEO DIGITAL MARKETING AND VIDEO Increase the visibility of your website and business online with SEO, digital marketing and web video. They develop and manage: your digital marketing campaign; web video production; SEO; social media; Google Adwords; inbound marketing and more. Contact them today for a free consultation and quote. Or sign up for a €100 web video.
M. 679 952 795 hello@zumoseo.com www.zumoseo.com
Guitar lessons - MUSIC Alen holds Master of Music and Bachelor of Music degrees in guitar performance, and has been teaching all levels of guitar for over 18 years. He accepts students for private or online/ Skype lessons. His students have been top prize winners in numerous guitar competitions and have gone on to earn performance degrees at major universities throughout Europe.
T. 652 477 269 alengaragic@gmail.com www.alengaragic.com
Easi-Sat - TELEVISION SERVICE NEW! NEW! NEW! Not allowed a satellite dish? Now we can supply all your favourite uk tv channels including all sports and films over the internet. No dish needed! Specialists in satellite TV, HD, audiovisual and unmatched for quality and reliability. For a personal, efficient and friendly service call the specialists. Our professional team provides satellite television from across Europe at unbeatable prices!
T. 93 845 9874 M. 649 413 832 enquiries@easisat.net www.easisat.net
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Mrs.Q design studio - GRAPHIC DESIGN Mrs.Q Design Studio offers a range of specialised services from branding to graphic design, web design, ceramics, photography and bespoke invitations. Whether you have a new concept in mind that you want to see brought to life or need assistance rebranding your company, contact Mrs.Q design studio. They are happy to help you every step of the way to make sure you get the exact look you’re looking for. They specialise in bespoke wedding invitations, tailor-made to suit the style of your wedding. Match your wedding invitations with save the dates, menus, place cards and thank you cards to create a polished look. At Mrs.Q design studio they love to design creative, engaging brand identities that help their clients flourish. They will help you bring some of your personality to your brand and use their knowledge of colour, passion for typography and creative flair to create an identity that engages your customers.
M. 699 260 938 mrsqdesignstudio@gmail.com www.mrsqdesignstudio.com
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
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52 BUSINESS DIRECTORY
TELEVISION SERVICE · TAX AND ACCOUNTING · INSURANCE
Smartsat - TELEVISION SERVICE
BritSat - TELEVISION SERVICE
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.
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.
M. 610 092 848 tv@smartsat.tv www.smartsat.tv
M. 649 605 917 info@britsatlive.com www.britsatlive.com
Brumwell Brokers -
INSURANCE AND TAX SERVICES
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Spain Accounting -
Tax AND Accounting services
*READER DISCOUNT
They not only care about your wellbeing, they “insure” it. With over 20 years of experience under their belts they can help you with all your insurance needs. Working with most insurance companies they guarantee you the best quote and best cover for what you need. They can even insure your bicycle!! Bromwell Brokers’ service team can also help you with tax, accounting, legal and labour laws. (Set ups, Autonomos).
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
Pl. Gal-la Placidia 1-3 08006 T. 90 262 7810 F. 90 262 7811
Call David Cook 678 702 369 info@spainaccounting.com www.spainaccounting.com
Cogesa - INSURANCE
Dragon - INSURANCE
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Do you feel secure in Barcelona? Are you still insured in your home country? Do you travel? Spanish not fluent yet? Do you want to feel safe and carefree in Barcelona no matter what? Cogesa makes sure to find you personalized and price worthy insurance solutions for your every need. We also speak Dutch, Swedish, Finnish, German and French.
Whether you need car insurance, building and contents house insurance, health, life or travel insurance, Dragon’s Insurance’s friendly staff are always ready to help and give you the best advice on insurance in Spain. With multilingual staff speaking English, Spanish and German, there is always somebody ready to help you with your individual needs. Their prices are absolutely unbeatable.
Diputació 262 T. 93 342 4896 foreignresidents@cogesa.es www.cogesaforeignresidents.es
T. 96 649 3762 F. 96 649 3998 maria@dragoninsure.com www.dragoninsure.com
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BUSINESS COACHING · SERVICE · FINANCIAL ADVICE
Legal Practice A&E -
LEGAL PRACTICE
- Commercial/Civil law. - Contracts: lease, contract of sale etc. - Corporation Establishment. - Taxes: IVA, IRPF, Companies Tax. - Legal defence. - Construction and Insurance law. They speak English.
The lawyers at Sánchez Molina speak English, Spanish, Italian and French. They can help with your business licensing services, legal defence and representation, registration under any form of ownership, accounting services and work and residency permits.
Passeig de Gràcia 118, ppal, 08008 T. 93 125 8799 info-bcn@lawyer.com
Gran Via Carles III, 84, 5 Metro: Maria Cristina (L3) T. 93 490 9669 javiergarcia@sanchezmolina.com www.sanchezmolina.com
Green Bean Coaching
deVere Group -
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.
The deVere Group is the world’s largest independent financial consultancy with a truly global presence. They provide expert, impartial financial advice in international savings, bonds, life insurance, pensions, as well as structured products, to expatriate clients and international investors around the globe. Their commitment is to help their clients create value and wealth by suggesting the right financial products that best suit their needs. Their advice is free and with no obligation.
T. 93 268 9544 M. 693 940 701 explore@freegreenbeans.com www.freegreenbeans.com
Passeig de Gràcia 56, planta 7 T. 93 487 5503 barcelona@devere-group.com www.devere-group.com
The Spectrum IFA Group - FINANCIAL ADVICE The Spectrum IFA Group creates and provides financial planning solutions for expatriates and foreign residents. Their 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 They 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 them to arrange an initial, no-obligation introductory meeting.
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Sánchez Molina -
LEGAL PRACTICE
BUSINESS COACHING
T. 93 665 8596 Passeig de Gràcia 63, Principal 2A barcelona@spectrum-ifa.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY 53
FINANCIAL ADVICE
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
For the latest jobs for English speakers in Barcelona, follow us on Twitter @WorkInBarcelona
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56 EMPLOYMENT
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How to write a Spanish CV If you’re applying for a job in Barcelona, make sure you know what has to be included (and left out) on a Spanish CV. - Include an up-to-date photograph. - In Datos Personales (Personal Information) include name, date of birth, DNI/passport number and your marital status. - Your Formación (Education) can be quite simple. You should include all educational institutions you have attended and any additional diplomas or degrees. Computer skills may also be important, depending on the job, and are worthwhile including. - Idiomas (Languages) are extremely important. All languages you speak, and your levels of
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proficiency should be included in the CV. - Experiencia Profesional (Employment History) is evidently an important part of your CV. When listing the various companies for which you have worked, include dates, but also job title, tasks and specialisation. Any additional skills or achievements relevant to the desired position should also be mentioned at the end of your CV. - When sending a CV in Castilian, be sure to have it thoroughly proofread by a native speaker, so as to avoid any embarrassing mistakes, either in language or grammar. A Spanish CV would initially impress, but any basic errors will take away from your application.
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58 BACK PAGE
Pirates! Icebergs! Ahoy!
I
t’s been a bad year for cruise ships. The hoteliers of Barcelona must be delighted. Anything to slow the relentless advance of the floating megaliths that threaten to take over from the city proper like ghostly parallel cities. They glide quietly in under cover of darkness, disgorge rapacious hordes to devastate the city’s sights and souvenir stalls, and by nightfall are gone. Their slow-moving denizens happily tick Barcelona off their list of cities to see before they die—of inertia, usually—without once darkening the towels of Barcelona’s hotel trade (to plunder a Marxism—Groucho rather than Karl). Good for tour guides, taxi drivers and purveyors of souvenirs, both tacky and tasteful. Bad for restaurants, purveyors of hotel beds and the general population. For now, those sea-borne hordes might think twice about entrusting themselves to the gleaming hulks that plough the already crowded waters of the Mediterranean. If they do, it will be thanks not just to inclement financial forecasts but to an unfortunate incident with a low-lying rock off the coast
of Italy a few months ago, and a similar but equally unfortunate incident with an iceberg a hundred years ago. The public relations departments of the global cruise trade must be wondering what they have done to offend Neptune/Poseidon. Either one of these events, the capsizing of the Concordia and the anniversary of the Titanic’s sinking, would have been enough to remind armchair mariners of the folly of going to sea in ships the size of football stadia. The two together are a stark and unequivocal warning. Technology might have improved over the last century, but if God had wanted us to do our sightseeing by sea, she would have stopped us evolving from plankton. The outlook is not much better for smaller craft, with Somali pirates pursuing an impressive campaign to persuade would-be adventurers and global circumnavigators to stay at home. They might not fly the Skull and Crossbones any more, or brandish impressive hooks or wooden legs. They probably don’t say “Argghh” much (but then what selfrespecting pirate does, except in the pages of
fiction and on the stages of Christmas pantomimes?). And walking the plank seems to have fallen out of favour, replaced by simply being thrown overboard, with or without prior attention from an AK47, the modern-day pirate’s weapon of choice. But what they lack in romantic accessories, 21st-century pirates certainly seem to make up for in brutality, even if that brutality is born of desperation, a sense of injustice, and the belief that they too can have a share in the world’s riches as they sail past their shores. The mystery, though, isn’t that people should be put off going on cruises in these troubled times, but why they would want to in the first place. The curtailment of personal freedom, accompanied by incarceration in cramped, boring conditions is generally used as a punishment. No amount of on-board bingo and flower-arranging classes is going to make it more palatable. Faced with a week —or even a weekend—trapped on a cruiseliner, walking the plank begins to look like an attractive option. --Roger de Flower
HOROSCOPE Aries Watch your words, as people will take you seriously. Perhaps soften what you say, but don’t be afraid to make your point. Your home life will receive a boost and you’ll be inspired to make some home improvements.
Taurus Financial demands have
Gemini There will be some home truths from people close to you. Take them in the spirit of opportunity as some changes could take you in a more positive direction. A trip could brighten the end of the month.
Cancer You’re on a roll now and life couldn’t feel any better. Take care not to overindulge though. If there are any issues, they will be in the workplace where there will be some changes. These could work in your favour.
Leo Your love life gets a boost this month and you may be considering someone who has just been a friend until now. You’ll have some obstacles to get over, but the experience will prove very useful to you later on.
Virgo You’re having a hard time
Libra You’re feeling happy and content, and you’ll get attention for it. Relax and enjoy the moment. Love smiles on you in the second half of May and you’ll be surprised that you hadn’t noticed this person before.
Scorpio Take control of your cash flow and don’t let it get you down anymore. If someone else is draining your resources, you need to put a firm stop to it. This is a good time to focus on your future and plan accordingly.
Sagittarius If you have a
Capricorn You’ve been working
Aquarius You feel like your creative energy is being sapped. This situation could be around for quite a while so you need to either accept it or make some changes. Start by reassessing your options at work.
Pisces You’ll be doing a great job at work this month and your efforts will be highly appreciated. Your love life is also glowing as an unlikely romance blossoms. Your only challenge will be trying to fit everything in.
partner, issues that have existed for some time come to the fore. You have grown but they haven’t. Give them a chance to catch up. Some great news regarding your career comes at month’s end.
increased and you’ll need to rein in your spending accordingly. But, don’t go overboard and feel resentful—you can still have some fun. You’ll get some good news career-wise.
balancing your work, home life and interests. You may need to make some radical changes in order to really sort it out. There will be lots of opportunities for quality time with close friends.
hard and you’ll reap the rewards, so make sure you’re relaxing too or overwork could become a health issue for you. If you’re in a couple, your partner will help you achieve a lot.
scoop By Ben Rowdon
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