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

Monthly Archives: September 2012

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA)

Posted by Craig on September 27, 2012 None comments

The Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona was opened in 1995 in the Plaça dels Àngels, El Raval, Ciutat Vella. It was built in this particular location for the purpose of situating it amongst some of Barcelona’s oldest streets and architecture. With its very modern design the museum is in stark contrast to the rest of the area and as such has come to be known as “the pearl”. Its southern walls are mostly glazed to provide excellent illumination into the interior galleries of the museum.

Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art

Barcelona's Museum of Contemporary Art, known locally as the MACBA

The permanent collection that is housed at the museum has pieces dating from the mid-20th century. The first period of modern art that is represented at the museum covers the 40′s to 60′s. The second period covers the 60′s and 70′s and the third period is contemporary. There is a mixture of international art as well as Spanish and local Catalan too. Opposite the main museum the Convent dels Àngels offers a separate exhibition area known in particular for its video art performances.

The Library Reading Room and Special Collections Room offer free access to the public of the museum’s wealth of books, publications and extensive archives. The nearest metro stations to the musuem are Catalunya and Universitat. Even non-art lovers would enjoy a visit to this museum and as such it is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona.

Gastronomika in San Sebastian

Posted by Craig on September 24, 2012 None comments

One of the most important Spanish culinary events is shortly to be taking place in the beautiful San Sebastian. The 14th edition of this event will take place from 7th to 14th October and will feature a multitude of cuisines from around the world. Anyone who enjoys food, wine or cooking will enjoy taking part in this event that sees San Sebastian transformed into the European centre of gastronomy.

Gastronomika in San Sebastian

Gastronomika in San Sebastian

Many of the world’s top food and wine experts will be heading to the event to take part in the spectacle. There will be workshops and talks being held and of course plenty of tastings! This year’s event is paying homage to French cuisine although there will be many other international and local cuisines featured.

If you like to the sound of the National Grilling Competition or the International Gin and Tonic Competition then you will not want to miss out on this event! With over 200 stands and displays set up there will be plenty of opportunity to taste and experience foods from around the world. Whether you are a proclaimed foodie or not, the Gastronomika event held in San Sebastian is a fantastic experience for old and young. If you are looking for a short getaway then a trip to this festival comes highly recommended.

Interior Design Show in Madrid

Posted by Craig on September 19, 2012 None comments

If you are going to be in Madrid between the 27 and 29 September then head on over to one of Madrid’s most famous districts, The Barrio de las Letras to experience a world class design event. During the extravaganza there will be installations, presentations, theatre productions and even concerts for all to enjoy. There will also be a slew of stands and displays to view in the open air market style event. Around 5000 people are expected to visit the spectacle which will feature many of the newest and latest design trends from around the world.

Interior Design Show in Madrid

Interior Design Show in Madrid

There will be 75 interior designers participating at the event and 65 antique dealers too. With 20 art galleries also taking part there will certainly be plenty to see and do even for those who are not necessarily connected with the world of design.

The Barrio de las Letras will become a giant open air market with many of the local restaurants and hotels getting involved too. It promises to be a great day out for anyone visiting the city during this time. It takes place from the 27 to 29 September so make sure you don’t miss out!