Barcelona

Barcelona is a huge city with several district articles containing sightseeing, restaurant, nightlife and accommodation listings — consider printing them all. Furthermore, Barcelona is also a great city for students to study in.

http://www.startupbootcamp.org/assets/images/events/Barcelona%20pitch%20day/Barcelona-Ville1.jpg

Barcelona is the capital and largest city of Catalonia and Spain's second largest city, with a population of nearly one and half million people (nearly five million in the metropolitan area).

This city, located directly on the northeastern Mediterranean coast of Spain, has a rich history dating back at least 2,000 years when it gained prominence as a Roman town under its old name, Barcino.

In 1992, Barcelona gained international recognition by hosting the Olympic games which brought a massive upturn in its tourism industry.

This had the effect of changing the city in ways that are still felt today with neighbourhoods renovated (and in some cases levelled) and the intense focus of modern design permeating all aspects of life in Barcelona from public buildings to something as simple as a park bench or an event poster.

Best things to do in Barcelona

*Discover the city on foot*

Barcelona is a big city, but it's the perfect size to discover on foot. Spend a day away from the metro and the tourist bus, and take your time strolling around and stopping to recharge with some of the city's great gastronomic options. If you're in the mood for visiting some of the most impressive buildings and parks, you'll want to see all the Parc de la Ciutadella has to offer as well as the Parc de Joan Miró, and the Montjuïc castle, but there's also a Barcelona you won't find in guidebooks. Get off the beaten path and head up to Horta, get to know the charm of the Sant Andreu district, see a lesser-known side of the Eixample and take in breathtaking panoramic views.

If your legs are more up to the task than your feet, you can also see the city by bicycle. Of the numerous ones around town, we've weeded out 10 routes in the city and surrounding areas for you to discover Barcelona while you pedal, whether you're a lifelong cyclist or still wobbling about without those extra wheels in the back.

*Explore Gaudí and modernism*

Without a doubt, one of Barcelona's top attractions for tourists (as well as for those who live here) is admiring the city's modernist architecture, and the works of Antoni Gaudí in particular. Just walking around you'll come across various examples of Gaudí's work throughout the city, be they civil or religious buildings. The most famous are the Sagrada Família, impressive both outside and in; Park Güell, a space that's out of a fairy tale and emulates an English garden city; and La Pedrera. But don't miss the opportunity to visit other Gaudí buildings that sometimes occupy smaller space in guidebooks, such as Palau Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Vicens and (if you have time to venture a bit outside Barcelona) the crypt of the Colònia Güell, in Santa Coloma de Cervelló.

*Fill up on tapas, pintxos and vermouth*

Pintxos, in essence, are Basque tapas - plates of bite-sized goodies served atop a piece of bread - and they're also a culinary trend in Barcelona. Tradition calls for you to pick at the food with toothpicks, and at the end of the night you will be charged for the number of toothpicks that you have used. One of the best places to give them a try is Euskal Etxea, where you can get stuck in to ham empanadillas (a type of pie), pintxos made of chicken tempura with saffron mayonnaise, melted provolone with mango and ham, or a mini-brochette of pork. But lest you forget, there are many more pintxos places in town as well.

*Climb up the magical Montjuïic*

Montjuïc mountain is the perfect place for a leafy stroll with great views, but it does take a bit of legwork to get up there, so it's less populated by tourists. But don't let that deter you. Aside from the natural surroundings and spectacular vistas, you'll find buildings from the 1992 Olympic Games, including the Palau Sant Jordi and the telecommunications tower designed by Santiago Calatrava. If you're feeling full of beans and you get to the top of the hill, you can check out the Olympic stadium and the Jardi Botànic. Plaça Espanya, at the foot of Montjuïc, is the most common access point to the mountain, and where you can also visit the Pavelló Mies van der Rohe and the CaixaForum cultural centre.

*Walk on the arty side*

In Barcelona, taking a walk in the park is not only a way to relax, it can also lead you to discover some great art. Get up and get out for a walk around the lush gardens of the Teatre Grec and then head over to the Fundació Joan Miró, one of the largest museums in the world and home to a collection of over 225 paintings, 150 sculptures and graphic pieces by the Spanish surrealist painter, along with a number of works by his contemporaries.

Listing all the museums and art galleries in the city would take quite a bit of time, but one of the jewels is the MNAC (Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya), with pieces that represent Catalan art from the Romanesque period to the mid-20th century.

*Get to know the city's history*

When visiting a new city, it's always good to learn a bit about its history in order to understand its architecture, its art, what makes it tick, and something of the character of its people. As an international city, Barcelona is full of diverse cultures and heritages, and with every step you take through its streets, you'll stumble upon some of its history.

*Chow down fresh seafood*

No one leaves Barcelona without sampling the seafood. The city toasts the fine and luxurious Galician restaurant Rias de Galicia in Poble-sec, as well as Cachitos in the Eixample, for their fantastic assortment of seafood. Cal Pep in the Born is known for its trifásico, a mélange of fried whitebait, squid rings and shrimps, and exquisite little tallarines (wedge clams). The Barceloneta restaurants La Mar Salada and Can Solé display a spectacular haul of fresh seafood every day, which is likely to tempt you if you're piscatorially inclined.

*Take a dip in the Mediterranean*

Barcelona has a little over four kilometres of beaches where you can spread out your towel, stab your umbrella into the sand, smear yourself with sun cream and find a very safe place for your rucksack. From the beach of Sant Sebastià, passing through Barceloneta, to the beaches of Nova Icària or Mar Bella - and each has its own selection of chiringuitos where you can get a refreshing respite from the sun (most also have a bit of nightlife later). And just a few minutes by train or a short drive in the car, you can take in other coastal towns with gorgeous beaches, part of the gift of the Mediterranean that just keeps giving.

*Sip a cocktail on a terrace*

The best place to kick back and enjoy a cold beer in Barcelona is one of the many outdoor bars and cafés in the city's terraces. Bar Colombo is a little tapas bar with a sunny terrace overlooking the port, while the Australian-run Bar Kasparo offers outdoor seating beneath shady arcades overlooking a playground for children. Another option is Bar Calders, a friendly hole-in-the-wall with a terrace. There are also a number of bustling cafés with terraces along La Rambla, such as Quim de la Boqueria. And don't worry, the terraces aren't just for summer; they're open all year round.

*Wander through the neighbourhoods*

Many visitors tend to spend their days in Barcelona visiting the most central areas (the Born, the Barri Gòtic and the Eixample), but the city is so much more. Gràcia (voted best neighbourhood by the city's residents) is full of life at all hours of the day, and among its little streets you'll be able to scratch that consumer itch in its many quality shops. Sarrià, while more on the posh side, still has the charm of the small town it once was; and Montjuïc is full of parks and gardens to take a nature break away from the crowds and stroll or have a picnic. But these days, Poble-sec and Sant Antoni are definitely the places to be, especially for their top cuisine and quality entertainment.

http://www.timeout.com/barcelona/features/35/20-great-things-to-do-in-barcelona

Una visita en Madrid

Madrid

...the capital of Spain, located in the heart of the peninsula and right in the center of the Castillian has a population of over three million. 

A cosmopolitan city, a business center, headquarters for the Public Administration, Government, Spanish Parliament and the home of the Spanish Royal Family, Madrid also plays a major role in both the banking and industrial sectors.
Most of its industry is located in the Southern fringe of the city, where important textile, food and metal working factories are clustered. Madrid is characterized by intense cultural and artistic activity and a very lively nightlife.

Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid, Spain

If you are planning to visit Madrid however you’re seeking more non-traditional tips and alternative spots to visit take a look at the recommendations below. From shopping to eating and spas galore there will be lots of great spots in Madrid to visit.

Location of Madrid

*Shopping*

In Madrid there are a plethora of small boutiques that stock a variety of beautiful and intricate garments so if you’re one of those people that cringes at the site of spotting someone across the street wearing the same thing as you, it’s the small shops along the streets of Claudio Coello, Jorge Juan & Villanueva in the Salamanca district that are meant for you.

For  fresh, contemporary and innovative buyers, one of the most interesting stores is Yube (Fernando VI, 23). You will be able to find some of the best international brands such as Vanessa Bruno, See by Chloé, Woolrich, Moncler, Attic & Barn and Filippa K.  However, if you like to follow trends but you also think minimalism is the “must” and “less is more” you should stop by Popi&Hafner (C/ Lope de Vega 3), a very young but promising Spanish fashion brand.  It is the best place for women who love to feel feminine, elegant and sensual

Another boutique named NAC (Génova, 18) offers a distinguished selection of the best national and international designers throughout their inventory. With their incredibly decorated space and the enticing clothing in it, it’ll be hard to leave empty handed.

If living alternative is your lifestyle of choice, shop the cool and unique clothes at the storefront, David Christian (Almirante, 18). Maria Roca offers an extended selection of custom clothing to wear during the day or at night.  In fact it’s her cocktail dresses, golden belts and palazzo pants in unique fabrics that are her specialty.

*Restaurants*

Ten con Ten (Ayala,6) is one of the most fashionable restaurants in town.  A great spot for people watching while simultaneously having a great lunch or dinner.  Definitely make sure to swing by with some friends to have a snack or a drink, a delicious cocktail prepared by his recognized barman, and of course taste their amazing menu.

The Sexto (Fernando VI, 6) offers an extensive menu of Mediterranean and market cuisine, with fresh, homemade dishes. A perfect place to go have breakfast, lunch, dinner or for an afterwork drink with friends.

*Beauty*

Le Petit Salon (Almagro, 15) is a charming beauty center created by Elena Comes in a true Parisian boudoir style. Since their doors first opened, it has become one of the top spots for many beauty addicts and celebrities alike.  My Little Momó (Lagasca, 3) is known for their manicure and pedicure treatments at the cutest salon with the soothing and ideal ambience one looks for in a spa.

But if you just want to spend a cozy evening at home because it’s cold outside, flowers and plants are the perfect way to add beauty and warmth to your living room. Verde Pimienta is a deliciously laid floristry shop that brings the exquisite world of floristry closer to the public by delivering high-end, trendsetting floral designs.

Gran via, Madrid

Reference: oliviapalermo.com

Benvenuto a Milano !

Hey friends,

In 2012 my sister got married and for her bachelorette party we travelled to milan altogether. It was a very fun 48 hour trip and I am going to share some of my experiences with you !

*History*

Milan is one of Italy's most fashionable cities and one of the richest cities in Europe but it also holds several historic and artistic attractions, including the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, the Last Supper painting, and the famous La Scala Opera House. Travelers to Milan will find a fast-paced, glamorous city with a thriving cultural scene and a top city for shopping. Although the city was heavily bombed during World War II, much of it was rebuilt.

*Location*

Milan is in northwest Italy in the Lombardy region, about 30 miles south of the Alps. It is very near the Lake district, including Lakes Maggiore and Como. From Milan, Rome is reachable on a fast train in as little as 3 hours and Venice in less than 3 hours. 

*Transportation to Milan*

Milan has 2 airports. Malpensa, to the northwest, is a big international airport. The Malpensa Express train connects the airport to the stations of Centrale and Cadorna, near the historic center. The smaller Linateairport to the east serves flights from Europe and within Italy and is connected to the city by bus service.

The main train station, Milano Centrale at Piazza Duca d' Aosta, links to major cities in Italy and western Europe. Domestic and international bus lines arrive inPiazza Castello.

*Public Transportation in Milan*

Milan has very good public transportation, including buses, trams, and an extensive metro system. 

*Our hotel*

The hotel we stayed in with all the girls from the bachelorette party was the Maison Moschino Hotel. A really nice and fashionable hotel with great interior design and bedrooms. Like Armani, Missoni and Bulgari before it, the Italian fashion house Moschino has decided to dabble in the hospitality business. Its first project is the much buzzed-about Maison Moschino in Milan, which opened last spring to coincide with the label’s runway show. Here, Moschino designers have turned their attention to a neo-Classical railway house from the 19th century that anchors a rather drab intersection at the edge of the city center. Inside, they have created a strikingly modern and very whimsical world of oversize velvet dresses that double as headboards, suspended light fixtures in the form of poodles and sheep, and ball gowns that stand in for art installations.

Reference: nytimes.com

*Clubbing*

We had a major night out at Cavalli club where we had a three course menu and partied afterwards in the open area club above the restaurant.

 Here you can see the webpage: 
JustCavalliHollywood

2 days in Venice....

Venice is one of the most interesting and lovely places in the world, I personally have never been there so far, but I sure would like to visit someday.

This sanctuary on a lagoon is virtually the same as it was six hundred years ago, which adds to the fascinating character. Venice has decayed since its heyday and is heavily touristed but the romantic charm remains.

*Rialto food markets*

Of course Venice’s shopping is amongst the best, with glossy boutiques and delis lining every walkway. Yet for a truly unique Italian experience you must head over the Rialto bridge to the daily fruit and veg market and the fish stalls that appear most days too. Here you’ll find produce so fresh and sometimes exotic, plus, there’s bars and cafes a plenty to sit and take in the sights and sounds. This is a truly traditional experience in which to get totally immersed!


*Hunt for the best restaurants*

Venice’s best restaurants are off the beaten track and not near the tourist traps. So leave the designer facades behind because for great value food that the locals love you have to get a little adventurous. Even the darkest of alleyways may lead to the most beautiful courtyard, littered with bistro tables and candlelight. The area between Rialto and St Marks Square provides some of the best while a Prosecco Bellini aperitif and a seafood risotto are a must off any menu.

*Try one of Venice’s many street bars*

One of our favourite street bars, or ‘holes in the wall’ is down a tiny street off of Salita Pio X, heading towards the city from the Rialto Bridge. Following signs to St Mark’s Square, look left immediately after the bridge and you’ll see locals and travellers alike tumbling on to the street, listening to live music from the charming little bar and its efficient serving window! Visitors have scribed their memories all over the walls whilst the super-helpful staff will advise on the best wine from their exquisite menu and the right cured meats and cheeses to sample with it. The place is no more than five metres square but the experience will be worth its weight in gold.

*Discover hidden gems and craftsman*

Italy is undoubtedly the home of true craftsmanship and there’s a couple of areas to explore where age old traditions are practiced in their droves. We love the area south of the canal for its galleries and stores showcasing Murano glass creations by local artisans.
The area around Palazzo Contarini Minelli dal Bovolo and Campo Manin is the place to find leather with some of the major fashion houses still commissioning cobblers in the area.

Reference: www.oliviapalermo.com