Travel tips, news and luxury accommodation-Barcelona and Madrid, Spain

Monthly Archives: August 2011

Illusions and Deceptions in Madrid

Posted by Craig on August 9, 2011 None comments

Place: CosmoCaixa Madrid-Alcobendas. 26 Pintor Velázquez Street, Alcobendas, Madrid
Dates: until January 2012
Timetable: from 10.00 a.m to 08.00 p.m from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Monday
Price: free entrance

Illusions and Deceptions in Madrid

We’ve all heard that the mind can play tricks on us, well the incredible interactive exhibition at Cosmocaixa-Alcobendas in Madrid takes this idea to a whole new level. Visitors to Madrid should not miss out on this incredible exhibition where our eyes deceive us and our brains experience distortions of reality. If you want to be entertained and baffled at the same time then this event is an absolute must.

The title of the exhibition is most fittingly, “Abracadabra, illusions and science” (Abracadabra, ilusion y ciencia). The event is being held in the Cosmocaixa-Alcobendas until January 2012. It takes elements from disciplines like psychology,  performing arts, physics, chemistry, architecture, engineering and maths to create an interactive display of illusions. Various magic tricks are explained and an insight into the work of illusionists and magicians can be gleaned.

Visitors can take part by viewing optical illusions, becoming part of the film “The Fly” and even being turned into a giant! It is an event that the whole family will enjoy and shouldn’t be missed.

More information about the event can be found here:

http://www.turismomadrid.es/en/whats-on/11240-dont-trust-your-brain-cheats-you

Most Popular Attractions in Barcelona

Posted by Craig on August 9, 2011 None comments

There is a lot to see and do in Barcelona but if you are only visiting for a short time you won’t have time to do it all. Instead choose from this list of the most popular attractions in Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia Barcelona

Sagrada Familia by Antonio Gaudi
Admittedly some people don’t like this Giant Temple, but most love it. The interesting thing about this attraction is that is unfinished. It has been under construction since 1882 yet still needs another 30 to 80 years work depending on funding. It was designed by master architect Antonio Gaudi and is an important stop on the tourist trail around Barcelona.

Barcelona's Aquarium

L’Aquarium de Barcelona
Who doesn’t love an aquarium? This is a great day out for both adults and children. There are hundreds of fish and other sea creatures to be viewed and for those feeling adventurous, you can even go diving with sharks.

Poble Espanyol Montjuic
Poble Espanyol de Montjuic “Spanish Village” Visitors to this small Spanish village get to enjoy architecture from right the way across Spain as each quarter replicates a different style of house. There are craft shops and artisan markets found here as well as workshops where you can view the master craftsman at work. It is also home to a famous Flamenco show at tablao de Carmen.
Barcelona Football Club Museum

Barcelona Football Club Museum
This museum is dedicated to Barcelona’s world famous football team. Here you can see their trophies, pictures and view footage of the players over the years. Even those who don’t particularly enjoy football will still have a good time here. It is even possible to purchase a ticket that allows you access to the changing rooms, VIP lounge and press conference areas too. Surprisingly the Barça museum often ranks as THE most popular tourist destination in Barcelona.

When you haven’t much time in this vibrant city, choose your activities wisely! These attractions will be sure to impress.

Carmen returns to Madrid

Posted by Craig on August 9, 2011 None comments

The Ballet Flamenco of Madrid have returned to Madrid to tell the story of Carmen, the famous gypsy of Seville. The 25 artists involved in the production use music, dance and movement to portray the stormy relationships and tragic events involved in this classic tale.

Carmen returns to Madrid

The production runs from 3rd May to 28th August and takes place at the Reina Victoria Theatre. 26th, Carrera de San Jerónimo. This will be the sixth time that a production of Carmen has been performed in Madrid, a statistic that demonstrates its immense popularity. Visitors Madrid this summer should not miss out on this breathtaking and fiery production.

The performances run from Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7p.m. and 9p.m. Sundays at 7p.m. Ticket prices range from €15 to €25. More information about this performance and other events taking place in Madrid this summer can be found here.