New Technologies

---

New Technologies - modern in 2009, junk in 2010

January 29, 2010 By: romeblogger Category: Rome

The new technologies are full of advantages: a clearer picture, a more involving sound, many more gadgets, more speed, efficiency, etc. But they also have one big disadvantage: its early expiry date. The new technologies are not affected by the crisis and evolve at the speed of light, but they expire too quickly. Who has not ever bought a new-generation mobile that the following month is old hat? Pay attention to what products will become obsolete in 2010!

DVDs: You have already built up an extensive DVD film library perhaps. Well soon, they’ll be a thing of the past just like the old VHS video. The same thing will happen with other players like the car radios, the CD players, etc. The USB port is gaining ground, because it can reproduce more formats, it has more capacity and what’s more important, all this in less space.

GPS: Tom Tom are literally pulling their hair out as the mobile telephones are beginning to tread on their patch…. Increasingly, the new telephone terminals include a browser among its many gadgets. This is the case of the Nokia N95, N96 or N97, which incorporate a really reliable navigation program. This is also the case of the Blackberry and the iPhone, which have become two of the top selling devices with incorporated browsers. We save some money and avoid having so many knick-knacks!

Digital cameras: Yes, it seems that digital cameras will tend to disappear. The mobiles, once again, will provide tough competition. Today, they incorporate high-quality cameras with the same amount of mega pixels as the conventional digital cameras. One of the biggest advantages of having a camera on a phone is that we always carry them with us. This way we can always capture those special moments!

The traditional mobile battery chargers: are you fed up with the need of different mobile battery chargers for each phone? The universal battery charger has finally made a guest appearance! From now it doesn’t matter the model or the brand of your phone. With this universal battery charger, your mobile will always have a full battery. And if you forget yours at home, no problem, as any friend can lend you his! Now you can get rid of the 20 different models stored in the drawer of your bedside cabinet!

Conventional laptops: say goodbye to the heavy and bulky laptops. Today’s computers tend to fuse increasingly with the mobile phones. For the lovers of the latest technologies, there is the new Apple iPad, a hybrid between a mobile and a computer. Run to clean up your closet because you will need plenty of space for the latest in high tech gadgets. What will never go out of fashion though is travelling. How about a trip to the Italian capital? Take your new generation mobile and buy your tickets now. To find that all important accommodation, why not rent apartments in Rome.

via romeapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Summoning Forth the Child Within

Summon Forth the Child Within

“One, two, three… are you ready? Where are you? I’m going to find you, no matter where you are…” Wow, what beautiful memories of our childhood! If you’ve forgotten how much fun it was, we invite you to become the child inside you. Ladies and gentlemen, from now on you will become children again.

How good it would be to be a child again, feeling that you can laugh about everything, enjoying the magic of life’s little details and using your imagination. Who would refuse an afternoon in the snow for hours? It’s so fun! Who does not like the sensation of a tickle? Play creating castles in the sand, race your bike with a friend; eat with a spoon instead of a fork… Everything is valid! It’s like being reborn. This year, don’t forget the child you have inside!

But even adults have their own games, which are different (with other sources of pleasure and fun). There are numerous sex toys, for example! And how many men are mesmerized by a video game, how many have fun playing football with their children or family board games? Over the years, we tend to become more serious, responsible and a bit cold and we lose the charm of the simple things of everyday life.

The adults learn from their mistakes every day. In relationships, how many times have we played hide and seek?

If you’ve never seen the French film Love Me If You Dare (2002), with the famous actress Marion Cotillard, you should see it. In this film, Julien says to Sophie:

Julien Jeanvier: You know… there were lots of things I was game for that you never said.
Sophie Kowalski: Like?
Julien Jeanvier: Eating ants… insulting the unemployed… loving you like crazy.
[they kiss]

To feel like a child allows us to relax, to lose a bit of shame, to have less fear of danger… Laugh about yourself and keep your spontaneity will make you immune to the difficult things in life. How good it would be to have a magic wand and to travel anywhere you wanted! Nothing is impossible…

If you want to relax, we recommend that you escape your everyday life and get away to a lovely Spanish city: Valencia. There you’ll enjoy the best Mediterranean dishes, and the most beautiful beaches. Have fun! And for an even more beautiful stay, rent Apartments in Valencia: they are so comfortable that you’ll sleep like a baby.

via valenciaapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Long distance relationships

Long distance relationships, are they sustainable?

Typically, love is associated with beautiful feelings such as hope, joy or excitement, but it’s not always rosy however much love or infatuation there is. This can be applied to the long distance relationships. Though it is true that when love is real, the distance should not be an obstacle, maintaining a constant interest and avoiding that one or both members of the couple suffer is very complicated.

Nowadays long distance relationships are on the increase thanks to the latest technologies. The chats have made it possible for people from opposite ends of the world fall in love and start a long distance relationship.

The major problems of long distance relationships appear to be mistrust, confrontation risk, possible infidelity, and so on. The lack of being close to one another can cause the relationship to cool off over time. Distrust is the worse. The fact of ignoring the everyday life of the other mate, not being part of his/her life and daily activities, can be a problem for the relationship. Also, the risk of a possible infidelity is much higher if we consider that everybody has physical and emotional needs that are not covered 100% by this type of relationship.

How does one solve these problems? Are the long distance relationships sustainable? The experts are categorical: yes, they are absolutely sustainable; the keys are good communication and mutual trust. If these two attributes are the foundation of any relationship, with distance in between they are more than indispensable.

To prevent the problems, define your terms in advance. This way you will settle and avoid many conflicts and confusions. Just define your expectations in advance. Surely, eventually, one of you will have to take the step in moving forward with the relationship. Surely, with time, one of the two will have to move to his/her lover’s city to continue with the relationship. Otherwise, it will just remain stagnant.

The key is to work on it. Do not let the relationship die: call them by phone, send letters or emails, talk via chat, use the web cam to see each other - today’s technologies make things easier! Flexibility is another important virtue to know how to cope with a distance relationship and since many couples have different schedules, it is difficult to communicate: she is from Israel, and he’s from the U.S., for example.

Try to enjoy every single moment that you spend together. Take the opportunity of any physical contact, because then you will miss it so much! What if you meet at a neutral city? The Portuguese capital is the perfect place! Rent Apartments in Lisbon and enjoy your time together. It will be unforgetta

via lisbonapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Airport controls - safety or just annoying

Airport controls - safety or just annoying?

Posted by seville | seville | Thursday 28 January 2010 12:23 pm

Of course, it isn’t necessary to remind oneself of the horrible terrorist attacks on 11th September 2001 in New York, because we still see the terrible pictures. From that day on the security checks at the international airports were drastically increased. Nevertheless, as the years have gone by, there have occurred a lot of security breaches and the incident at the airport in Munich last week – where they detected explosive traces on a passenger’s laptop and who escaped unnoticed, has shown us that there is a lot of work to be done in order to guarantee passenger safety. But unfortunately the security politics seem to be wrong and the organisation of the airport controls has to be improved drastically.

“Please, open your bag” We have all heard this famous sentence and we all are familiar to the stressful situations at the airports. The security check can be a nightmare: first you take off your jacket, then you put your hand luggage on the conveyor belt, of course while taking out your laptop, millions of other things fall out of your bag; take off the necklace, empty the trouser pockets, oh, you’ve almost forgotten your belt. You don’t carry any liquids and you’ve already prepared carefully the little tiny plastic bags with your cosmetics. You look at the crowd behind you, and seeing the increasing queue you’re getting even more nervous. But come on, you’ve almost managed everything.

Put your things correctly in the little boxes on the conveyor belt and head for the metal detector. Calm down, breath profoundly and…BEEEEEP. God damn it! In the next two seconds, a security officer stands next to you frisking you for weapons. Nothing was found, ok, good, perfect. “Please, take off your shoes!” That can’t be true! You notice that your hand luggage is interrupting the traffic, but you can’t do anything instead of waiting there barefooted. Your pulse is getting faster and faster, your heart is beating like hell, everyone is staring at you. It isn’t surprising that you really feel like a terrorist in this moment. In such a mad rush passengers can only ask themselves: Airport controls: safety or just annoying?

Well, everyone should contribute for guaranteeing the passengers safety. So, this includes unfortunately as well those annoying airport controls. Furthermore, all passengers of the EU have to deal with tighter security controls, because all the representatives of the 27 EU member states came to the agreement to increase the security checks at international airports. There is a plan to assign more “sky marshals”, undercover security officers who are on board. Data protection will also be affected; hence telephone or credit cards numbers can be transmitted to the authorities.

Nevertheless, the main debate is about the disputed body scanner, where the member states haven’t yet come to an agreement. In Germany, for example, control of this body scanner is up to the passengers’ good faith. But there is still a long awaited report about possible dangers for health or violation of privacy by the European Commission.

Be that as it may, of course we don’t want any further terror attacks, so we should support the security officers in their work. (Apart from the body scanners, which certainly are too much) Relax and take the security control easy, show the officer your nicest smile and you’ll see, how calmly everything can proceed. Unless you have something to hide of course!

Don’t be scared and book your next flight. What about impressive vacations in one of the most beautiful cities of Southern Spain? Rent the best apartments in Seville and enjoy all the treasures of this cheerful Andalusian city.

via sevilleapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Sex and food - two pleasures

Sex and food, two pleasures that go hand in hand

Posted by paris | paris | Thursday 28 January 2010 12:49 pm

Sex and food are two basic human needs that are intimately linked. To eat, to drink and to love… who has never enjoyed such a wonderful combination? Open your mind to pleasure and enjoy the best food and the best sex at the same time. Cook thinking about you and your lover’s pleasure: prepare an erotic atmosphere with dishes that incite the carnal act. Forget the aphrodisiac recipes, of doubtful effectiveness, and focus on the art of cooking and eating to feel and convey pleasure.

To seduce with food is an art. How about a dinner that begins on the table and ends in bed? Prepare the room for the occasion: place small dishes with fruit, chocolate, cream, jam, syrup… and do not forget something to drink (tea, spirits, wine or champagne are the perfect beverage). Use your partner’s body to try each and every one of the delights. Any part is valid: breasts, navel, genitals, mouth or neck.

Ice can be another highly erotic element. Using ice when kissing your partner can be an explosive mix. Let the cube melt between your lips. Play passing it from one mouth to the other, until it melts completely and let your tongues do the rest.

But kissing can go much further. The first kiss in the sexual act is comparable to the first bite of a delicious meal. Kissing is the same as eating; you have to bite, to suck and to taste… why not mix the pleasure of a kiss with the pleasure of a meal? Try the kisses wet in champagne or give your lover to try your lips dipped in any type of food: chocolate, fruit, anything goes!

How about an orgy of flavours among your lips? Try to combine sweet flavours like jam, cream, syrup or candies with warm and cold elements: ice cream, hot cake or flavoured ice cubes.

After all that food you are sure to get a bit dirty. Also take advantage of this to further lengthen the pleasure. Use perfumed water to wash yourself and your partner’s body in the most erotic way you can. Or if you prefer it, you can have a shower together.

Can you think of a better place to enjoy all these pleasures other than in the city of lights? The French capital waits for you with its finest delicatessens. Rent Apartments in Paris and taste the delights.

via parisapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Say Goodbye to Happy Hour in Barcelona

Goodbye to Happy Hour in Barcelona

Jan 28th, 2010 by apartmentblogger

Since last November, the “2 for 1” formula, the free drinks and “happy hour” have been prohibited in bars and clubs in Barcelona. A measure taken by Health Public Law hopes, with all this, to prevent addictions and some other negative consequences derived from the consumption of alcohol. To break this law, it may cost these pubs up to 6.000 euros, or even the closure of the establishment in case they reoffend.

Irish Pubs used to be the most enthusiastic with this “happy hour” practice, which used to be between 6 pm to 8 pm, when drinks cost cheaper, or even half price.

To many consumers, this measure will probably not affect them in any way, due to “happy hour” beginning and ending too soon for those who start drinking after dinner. On the other hand, this practice was very popular indeed among young tourists who visit Barcelona and who are used to paying much more money for a drink in their own countries.

This law joins the next Anti- tobacco Law, which is much more restrictive than the current law. With this new law, smoking will be forbidden in any public place, including, of course, bars and pubs, just like other European countries such as Italy or Ireland. Along with it comes the decision to finish with the “lateros” (street sellers, who offer cheap beer illegally).

Perhaps somebody will cry over these losses, but this is not reason enough to not keep enjoying all the varied offers of leisure time in the city and at a reasonable price. Maybe this measure will contribute to the decreasing of the irresponsible consumption of alcohol among young people.

Public health versus cheap fun (most of all in crisis periods), controversy is thus served. One piece of advice: Barcelona is much more than “happy hour” and “2 for 1”. There are a hundreds of delightful bars for all kinds of budgets where you can have fun with your friends. Don’t hesitate and make your booking at Apartments in Barcelona, a different way to stay which is far away from the impersonal hotels. Discover the exciting Barcelona night life and have a great time, too.

via blogonlyapartments.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

The beauty of Telluric Art

The beauty of Telluric Art

Have you ever heard of the “telluric” concept? Do you think it is another strange buzz word in the world of art? No, telluric art is not a new or mysterious concept; in fact, it is the most basic description that can be given to an artistic creation: it refers to the earth, the origins and to primitivism. Pablo Picasso was the most passionate artist regarding African art, and many of his artist friends had statues or primitive masks in their workshops.

They represent the origin, the simplicity, the spirit and the natural force, which are some characteristics of the European artistic vanguards. Now you can visit the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid where there is a wide Telluric Art selection from 1930 to 1936. While Europe was plunged into two world wars and traumatized by the atrocities, artists were looking for the humanity in the natural things: the Earth.

Alberto Sánchez, Benjamín Palencia, Julio González, Oscar Domínguez and Maruja Mallo are some of the artists that better represent this kind of art. Although their names do not sound as much like those of Picasso, Dalí and Miró, they were colleagues and they travelled to Paris when the city was the core of the European vanguards. There was developed the Surrealism, and the Spanish painter Oscar Domínguez is one of its major exponents. In his first creations, we can see the black sands of Tenerife and later he invented the painting technique of Decalcomania: a process that involves applying black gouache on the paper, which is then placed on the top of another sheet on which someone exerts a light pressure. They are separated before they dry and you get a similar picture.

The sculptors such as Alberto Sánchez and Julio González (a Catalan specialized in iron sculptures) are noted for their simple beauty and wild, the geometry of the volume, the strength of the expression, the dynamic forms and the severity that they can transmit. Their statues seem to be the incarnation of weight and lightness, two essential human states.

When it comes to painting, you have surely heard to talk about Benjamin Palencia or one of the few surrealist women artists, Maruja Mallo. She focused on very characteristic female portraits, pioneers of American pop art, and she had a cosmic period during which dedicated to the recreation of nature in her series of Marinas. Pottery was also one of her exploration avenues, like the genius Picasso. Palencia was fascinated by the Castilian landscapes, the dreamlike colours, Fauvism and Cubism.

In the other rooms of the Reina Sofia Museum, you will find the surreal and abstract creations, of the Spanish artists and the 27th Generation or the Noucentisme. Here you will see how much telluric art has been represented in twentieth century vanguards. Joan Miró, the Catalan artist was perhaps the most telluric artist with his infinite blue, his concern for detail and his strong symbolism of the coloured spots. The Animals, the nature and the cosmic world were his favourite subjects.

Come to Madrid to immerse yourself in the corridors of human nature and at night, discover the wilder side of the capital with the famous Madrid nightlife. To enjoy the best amenities, rent apartments in Madrid.

via madridapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Facebook, Your Life in Pictures on the Internet

Facebook, Your Life in Pictures

Posted by milanblogger | milan | Wednesday 27 January 2010 12:25 pm

Social Network services, could you imagine your life without them? Whether it’s Twitter, Facebook, Hi5, MySpace, Hyves or LinkedIn, we are addicted to them. It’s a great way of keeping in touch with family and friends; we post sweet messages on their walls and proudly upload our holiday pictures so others can comment on them. We think nothing of throwing names, photos and birthdates of our children online and through our status updates we let the world know what we are doing 24 hours a day. But some recent newspaper articles have shown that nothing goes on without consequences…

Less than a week ago some furious Facebook users phoned the police when they saw the photo which a teenage mom posted to her profile. It showed her 6 month old baby with an (unlit) cigarette in his mouth. The 18 year old from Essex (UK) probably thought it was funny, but now faces a visit from social services.

If you and I should think twice about certain things, that certainly goes for celebs. And even more so if your name is Katie Price (better known as Jordan). She recently divorced pop singer Peter Andre, and had a big New Year’s Eve party at her house. There were a lot of guests, a lot of alcohol and Jordan’s children of 4 and 2 years old. Some party people posted photos on Facebook, which showed the toddlers in the background looking sleepy and confused as people around them were dancing and getting drunk. Later that night a fight broke out while the children were sleeping nearby. Jordan’s ex, Peter Andre, was furious when he found out and the glamour model now risks losing custody.

The story of Craig Lynch, who escaped from a prison in Suffolk (UK) in September 2009 is just as crazy. For more than 3 months he managed to stay out of the police’s hands, but he regularly kept on updating his Facebook status. He became very popular, having more then 1200 friends. On Christmas day, he posted a photo of himself with a turkey and the comment: “Wow, it really is Xmas. Ha, ha. I can’t believe I made it. **** the police.” He was captured two weeks later. Something similar happened to Lizzie Tams, who was free on bail and fled to France. She made arrangements through Facebook to meet her children at the airport in Nice. Unfortunately, the police was also monitoring her profile, who arrested her and put her on the first flight back to prison.

But luckily there are also some beautiful stories. In September 2009, an Australian who was on holiday on the Greek island of Mykonos found a camera on the beach. He created the Facebook group ‘Needle in a Haystack’, where he posted in order to contact the owner. It became a real buzz and more than 250.000 people joined. And two months later, he succeeded: the camera belonged to Marie, a girl from London who lost her camera during a vacation with friends.

With some common sense, a bit of responsibility and caution you have absolutely nothing to fear. But keep in mind that once you throw something on the internet, it is not so easy to control it. Of course, if you have some beautiful pictures from your last city trip, we’d love to see them. Italy for example. Rent the best apartments in Milan, and smile for the camera!

via milanapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Traditional Body Modifications

Traditional Body Modifications

When we think about body modification, we think about piercings and tattoos. Some people love it and see these decorations as a way of expressing who they are, others simply hate it. But the desire to make ourselves more attractive through body modifications is far from new. Since ancient times, people have had a mental image of perfection. And even though the image has changed somewhat throughout the centuries, it has showed us that people are willing to suffer for beauty. No pain, no gain.

Around 45,000 BC, it was really fashionable to have an elongated skull. The Egyptians did it as well, and less then 150 years it was still done in some parts of Africa (especially the Mangbetu tribe in Congo) and South America. When a baby is born, the skull is still soft and not fully-grown. So they wrapped the baby’s head in cloth or rope, and add wooden splinters for extra pressure. This practice was called cranial binding.

More common is the neck-stretching, practised by some Burmese-Thai tribal groups. When a girl is five years old, she receives her first ring. Gradually they add more, up to 37 rings that weigh more then 20 pounds! The women are called long-necks or giraffes, but all these rings actually do is crush the collar bones, so the neck looks longer. In the old days, only girls born on Wednesdays or on a full moon were to wear the rings, but now most girls undergo the process because it provides them with an income: whole villages were constructed were tourists pay to go see these long-necks. Some young girls who wanted to go to college took off the rings in their twenties, without any problems. But women who have worn them most of their lives simply cannot: they would choke as the muscles have weakened so much.

Other extreme examples are the Mursi and Sura tribes in Ethiopia. When a girl has reached the child-bearing age (around 16 – 17), and incision is made in her lower lip. They insert a ceramic dish, and replace it each time with a larger one until the lip is about 4cm in diameter. At this point, between 2 and 4 front teeth are extracted to accommodate a clay lip plate. The ideal is to wear a lip plate of about 15 – 20 cm in diameter. Talking, eating and drinking is of course extremely uncomfortable, that is why the women wear them only around men.

In China, for centuries long, it was custom to bind the feet of young girls to prevent them from growing. Small feet were seen as elegant and perfect. When girls were between 3 and 8 years old, their mother would break their toes and bind them underneath the soles of the food with linen bandages. Sometimes the girls were forced to walk long distances, so their own weight would crush the bones of the feet. Every week the wrappings were taken off (if necessary the toes broken again) to wash the feet, and then applied even more tightly, until eventually the arch of the foot is also broken. Unnecessary to say that is was a painful process, but one hundred years ago it was impossible for a girl with normal feet to find a husband. The greatest danger was the risk of infections, gangrene and rotting flesh.

You want to find out more about Chinese customs and traditions? An excellent place to start is the Centre for Chinese Culture in Berlin, inaugurated in 2008. Rent the best apartments in Berlin and enjoy a perfect mix between east and west!

via berlinapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Bollywood, the cinema of dance

Posted by marrakech

Jan 26

Cinema is one of the industries that moves a lot of money in the world. Contrary to what you might think, India – and not Hollywood, is the country that produces more movies per year in the world. Regardless, Bollywood cinema (Hindu cinema) continues to be a great enigma for the average spectator, since it does not have the same promotion as the North American industry.

The Indian movies have nothing to do with the Americans. The storylines tell a love story between two or more characters. There are love affairs, love triangles, and so on. But the hallmarks are its music scenes. Every movie includes typical and traditional Indian dances and songs, mixed with Western pop choreographies. Certainly, it is a strange but incredible mix. The most curious thing is that the scenes are filmed without dialogs and then they are doubled (in India they speak up to 16 languages, so this is the simplest dubbing system).

In India the film industry is so important that their most famous actors are almost revered as gods. In fact, their songs are produced by great artists, both national and international: among the Asians are names like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and among the Westerners, British composer Andrew Lloyd Weber. The actors rarely really sing, but they produce a perfect playback. Usually soundtracks are released some months before the release of the movie. This way, the film’s premiere is always eagerly waited and everyone knows its songs.

The Bollywood dances, especially the older ones, are oriental dances: classical dances, dances of the northern courtesans of India (tawaif) or folk dances. In modern movies, the oriental dances are mixed with the western ones (like the dance routines on MTV or the Broadway musicals). The hero or heroine is often accompanied by a support group of dancers.

The fact is that Bollywood cinema is spreading like wildfire. Increasingly, it has gained more acceptance out of India and the films are shown more and more all over the world. In fact, outside the Indian borders, generations of countries like Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal and Russia have grown up with the Bollywood cinema for years.

Would you like to immerse yourself in the Eastern world? Marrakech is the land of romance, dreams and the most beautiful fables. Immerse yourself in the land of the flying carpets and soak in the Bollywood cinema. And to find the best accommodation, rent apartments in Marrakech!

via whattovisitinmarrakech.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Minimalism Painting

Minimalism, painting silence

January 26, 2010 By: venice-apartments Category: Venice

In the space of 15 years, American art has moved from Pop Art through Abstract Expressionism and has reached the extreme simplification with Minimalism. It is during the decade of the 60s when this abstract art trend develops – characterized by the complete elimination of any human representation.

The evolution of art is tremendous: during the Renaissance they could spend months painting the face of an angel; the Impressionists were concerned about the visual impressions, the light and the colour; the Surrealists worried about the unconscious and the Abstracts about the colour. Over the years, the art has become “ordinary”: it concerns itself with everyday life, about the insignificant things and about spiritually.

The dematerialization of art – according to Lucy Lippard and John Chandler, functions as the analysis of the changes that characterize the contemporary art. The artists focus on the disappearance of the object, in favour of the concept. Therefore, art is an idea.

It has often spoken about the secrecy of abstract art, because it is an art that does not represent anything recognizable, but refers to a human emotion or an investigation into the art itself.

Ad Reinhardt is considered the father of the minimal and the conceptual art. His work begins with geometric compositions and works in different shades of the same colour. His paintings were called “black” because they seemed to be almost black monochrome fabrics. The poetry of these works lies in a search of the absolute and of the transcendental dimension of the colour.

Another reductionist artist like Carl Andre, Dan Flavin, Donald Judd, Sol LeWitt and Robert Morris were interested in lines and volumes from the standpoint of the perception. In the work of Dan Flavin, the protagonist is light: he works with standard fluorescent lights and industrial lights.

In general, they do not give titles to their works because they believe that they determine the interpretation of the spectators. They prefer that the public perceive and interpret the work themselves.

If all this seems a bit too clinical and you are passionate about the human forms and the architectural mastery, we recommend you to travel to Venice, Italy. Why not rent apartments in Venice, and make your stay a fantastic one.

via veniceapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Michelin Star Restaurants 2010

Michelin Star Restaurants 2010 - the best restaurants in Spain

Jan 26th, 2010 by apartmentblogger

2009 couldn’t have given anymore and if we weigh up what happened last year, words like financial crisis or influenza A pass through our head. But not all have been negative things; this year has left us many smiles, surprises and a really good taste in our mouths: the new Michelin Star Restaurants in Spain guide has been released. So what does this mean? That it has submitted the list of the best culinary establishments in the country for 2010… It is well known that Spain is famous for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine. In fact the Londoners awards S. Pellegrino – announcing the 50 Best Restaurants in the World, awarded first place to a Spanish restaurant: el Bulli. Spain was the second most awarded country after France and with only one less prize.

This year the Celer de Can Roca Restaurant – regented by the Roca brothers, finally took the third and well deserved Michelin star, an award that experts say has been a long time coming because this year it has been selected as one of the five best world restaurants in the list of St. Pellegrino Award.

The 2010 Michelin Guide is full of novelties, especially in the category of a single star. But the biggest surprise of the year is for Tokyo, that has obtained the three stars for 11 restaurants and it becomes the city with more stars of the highest standard in the world. Up to eleven restaurants have achieved three stars! Meanwhile, in Spain only the Roca brothers restaurant has achieved the highest score. There are currently seven restaurants with three stars, besides the Celer de Can Roca: Juan Mari Arzak´s restaurant the Arzakf, Ferran Adria’s restaurant ‘El Bulli’, Pedro Subijana’s restaurant Akelarre, Carme Ruscalleda’s restaurant Sant Pau, Martín Berasategui’s restaurant El restaurante de Martín Berasategui and Santi Santamaría´s restaurant Can Fabes.

In the two-star category there are: Paco Roncero’s restaurant La Terraza de Casino in Madrid, Casa Marcial restaurant in Asturias, Les Cols restaurant in Girona and the y el Lasarte restaurant in Barcelona. Unfortunately, Tristan restaurant in Mallorca has lost one of its two stars.

The restaurants that have earned a star are many and varied: the David Muñoz’s restaurant the Diverxo (Madrid), Etxebarri Axpe restaurant (Vizcaya), the Ramón Freixa Madrid’s restaurant (Barcelona), As Garzas restaurant (A Coruña), Fonda Xesc de Gombrèn restaurant (Gerona), La Cabaña de la Finca Buenavista restaurant (Murcia), Bo.Tic restaurant (Gerona), Kabuki Wellington restaurant (Madrid), Cocinandos restaurant (León), A Estación de Cambre restaurant (A Coruña), Casa Julio de Fontanar dels Alforíns restaurant (Valencia), El Torreó de L’India restaurant (Tarragona), the Alejandro restaurant in Roquetas del Mar (Almería), La Broche (Madrid) and M.B. (Tenerife).

This year the Michelin Guide features 1893 restaurants and 116 snacks and tapas bars, plus 235 restaurants with a Bib Gourmand label, an indication which refers to the high quality meals at reasonable prices (around 35 euros). Are you fond of good eating? Visit Spain, one of the most prestigious culinary countries of the world. The Catalan capital will surprise you with its rich cuisine. Rent Apartments in Barcelona and … enjoy your meal!

via blogonlyapartments.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

High heels, the hottest invention of the 20th century

---

High heels, the hottest invention of the 20th century

January 25, 2010 By: malaga Category: Malaga

The shorter the skirt is, the shorter the high heels should be. And the longer the dress is, the higher the high heels should be. That’s the first rule! High heels not only shape our legs, but also draw admiration from the guys. Many men have a fetish of high heels! With Cinderella we knew that high heels would be very important in our seductive lives…

Platform, needle, block, tapered, blade, wedge, cowboy boots, booties, pompadour… these are different types of high heels and one is perfect for you. Did you knew that the origin of the high heels date back to the fifteenth century? Men were the first to wear them (especially smaller people) to get on the horseback.

Today, you can see many women trying to walk with high heels, as the urban streets are not always adapted to “ride high”. Who has not heard of a woman who twisted her ankle because her high heel got caught in a drain or something similar? High heels are a symbol of femininity and sensuality, but they can also be a trap.

It is not recommended wearing high heels every day because your feet will be damaged. They can have terrible effects on your back and warp your toes. Many people hate their feet because they find them the ugliest part of their body, but this is not a reason to mistreat them.

You should buy the perfect high heels for you and you should feel comfortable in them. And if you are not really a high heeled person why not give them an opportunity: try with some low ones and build yourself up to the higher ones. With jeans, high heels and a t-shirt you’ll look beautiful! In addition, the designers are working hard to offer you the best high heels…you should wear them at least once in your life. Keep your balance though!

Why not try your new high heels on a trip to Malaga? And if you definitely do not feel comfortable with them, admire the most passionate dance of the world: the flamenco. Invite your partner or some friends and rent Apartments in Malaga, everything will be unforgettable.

via whattovisitinmalaga.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

El Greco to Dali - the great Spanish masters | Paris Blog

El Greco to Salvador Dalí: a Panorama of Spanish Art

Posted by paris | paris | Monday 25 January 2010 12:47 pm

What do you know of the history of Spanish art? If you want a complete panorama we encourage you to visit the exhibition “El Greco to Dali - the great Spanish masters”. The Pérez Simón Collection will grace the Jacquemart-Andre Museum in Paris from March 12th until early August 2010 and will provide 50 works of art from more than 25 Spanish masters, discovering or admiring the exceptional evolution from religious art to surrealist painting.

It is the first time that such a rich exhibition of Spanish paintings has been shown in France. It is an exhibition featuring twelve paintings never before exhibited to the public and others that are shown infrequently. Promoters say the jewel of the event will be a painting by Francisco de Goya- a portrait of Maria Theresa of Vallabriga and Rozas (1783). They also highlighted a selection of little known or studied works of the Spanish genius Salvador Dalí - ballet projects - and several drawings of Pablo Picasso’s blue period.

And there’s more! Thanks to Juan Antonio Pérez Simón (Asturias, 1941) who lives in Mexico and owns the largest collection of European art in Latin America, visitors can contemplate works of El Greco, Jose Ribera, Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, Goya, Sanchez Coello, Joaquin Sorolla Juan Gris, Picasso, Miró, Dalí and Antonio Tàpies. From the dark sacred art of the eighteenth century, through the official portraits, scenes of daily life in the nineteenth century, the naval scenes of Sorolla and the representation of women in the early XX, the exhibition ends with the drawings and paintings of the masters of Spanish Cubism and Surrealism. It is a unique opportunity to take note of the best eras in Spanish art, to travel through the history of artistic movements and appreciate the breaks between each master. The evolution of Spanish art will leave you speechless!

If you plan to go and visit this exceptional exhibition, please note that an audio guide can help you to better understand the twenty works of art – you can even download the commentary from the Internet. And if you want to explore further the richness and beauty of Spanish art, a catalogue of some 200 pages is on sale on your way out of the Musee Jacquemart-Andre.

Take advantage of a stay in Paris to discover this museum located next to the Champs-Elysees, a luxury hotel built during the nineteenth century. Come and discover its impressive permanent collection - French, Dutch and Italian Renaissance painting, objects and furniture - their reception rooms, its monumental staircase, winter garden and private apartments. You will enjoy an amazing scenery along with the most unprecedented exhibition of Spanish art. There’s no excuse not to come. Rent Paris apartments and make your trip a memorable and unique one.

via parisapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

What is beauty?

What is beauty?

Oh, this is so beautiful, so sweet and so wonderful! How many times a day do you see beautiful things? Many times we associate beauty with the view: with the symmetrical harmony of the body of a beautiful model, with an idyllic landscape, with the grandeur of a historic monument, with a famous work of art, etc. And why is it that what I find beautiful, you don’t? Even before Jesus Christ, men were asked about its essence and it seems that even today there is no general and fixed definition about it.

Ask two different people what beauty is and they will probably differ or wouldn’t know what to say. To begin, we may ask if we understand that beauty is something visible or is rather something abstract or whether it is transient or lasting, objective or subjective.

A ring may be beautiful, because it has a diamond and it’s made of gold. But when a child gives you a ring made from wild grass, and he approaches you with a huge smile, the ring can be very beautiful too. The poetry of tragedy is also beautiful because it speaks about emotions and passions.

In the fifth century BC, Xenophon, a military man and Greek philosopher, started what was the beginning of discussions about the concept of beauty. He said that beauty could be divided into three categories: the first one is the ideal beauty, based on a symmetrical harmony; the second one is the spiritual beauty, referring to the soul and the third one is the functional beauty, which says that things are beautiful when they are useful.

What if beauty were ugly? Gandhi was not particularly handsome, but he had a huge inner beauty, and it was reflected in one of his quotes: “But all my life though, the very insistence on truth has taught me to appreciate the beauty of compromise”. Many films tell the story of a beautiful girl who does not love the most handsome boy because she falls in love with an “ugly” one.

There are people who do not appreciate the Guernica painting by Pablo Picasso because they dislike the subject of war and death, but this painting is usually defined precisely as the most beautiful of the twentieth century, because it carries the essence of our history in all its glory.

To keep wondering what the beauty is, we suggest something to you: a trip to Lisbon, because the Portuguese capital is also a gem. Rent Apartments in Lisbon and relax, they are cheap

via lisbonapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

6 Nations Rugby Championship Rome

---

6 Nations Rugby Championship 2010

January 22, 2010 By: romeblogger Category: Rome

In 2009, the Irish shouted ‘Go Irish’ so much that their team became the champion of the 6 Nations Rugby Championship. And from February 6th until March 20th, its players, together with those of Britain, France, Wales, Italy and Scotland, will face each other again in this year’s championship. So, to all the rugby fans; you can not miss it! If you come to the Flaminio stadium in Rome on 15th and 27th February, you will have the opportunity to attend two amazing matches of this sensational European sporting event (Italy / England and Italy / Scotland). Come on!

Sport has this amazing power to attract the masses and bring them together under the colours of their country, to arouse strong feelings and encourage the fraternity. For these reasons, many people watch the matches at this tournament with a beer in a bar, at home with some friends or in the stadium.

Julien Dupuy, one of the stars of the French team can not play because he is sanctioned for injuring Stephen Ferris, the third-line player of the Ulster team in the Heineken Cup in December. Julien Dupuy may not play again until 27th May.

All the other players are preparing for the glory. The trophy, awarded to the winning team is a cup made of more than five kilos of sterling silver that can hold exactly five bottles of champagne. It has a specially designed edge for drinking without any problems. At first its inside was made of silver, but the champagne has damaged it so much that is was covered with a layer of 22 carat gold to protect it. The French were the first to win it in 1993.

If your friends have followed the event with passion for years, but you do not understand anything, why not take some notes. Two points for a victory, one point for a draw and none for a loss. There is no bonus system. Easy, right? And another thing: if a team wins every game, we call it a “Grand Slam“, and if it comes in last, it wins the “Wood Spoon”.

There is also a female tournament! It is organized at the same time of the men’s competition with the top six women’s national teams in Europe.

Now you know a little bit more about this event. Take advantage of the two matches that will take place on Rome the 15th and 27th of February to visit the Italian capital. Rent apartments in Rome along with your friends or family, they are cheap and comfortable.

via romeapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

An Evil Monster Called Disney

An Evil Monster Called Disney

Posted by paris | paris | Friday 22 January 2010 12:16 pm

I grew up with Disney movies. Loved them! I wanted to be friends with Alice so she could show me her Wonderland and fly on a carpet like Aladdin and Jasmine. When Bambi’s mother died I cried, and I laughed so hard with the silly seven dwarves. But most of all, I wanted to be like Peter Pan and never grow up. Disney is magic, and their movies keep on enchanting many children around the world. But lately appeared some studies and investigations, where therapists and pedagogues draw the conclusion Disney movies have a bad influence on children. How so?

Let’s take for example the little mermaid. It’s a story about a mermaid who wants to be human. There is nothing wrong with that, right? But she lies to her father, asks her friend (the crab) to lie to her father, who then goes crazy, bursts into rage and destroys her collection of ‘human things’. She makes a deal with Ursula, risking the lives of everyone in her kingdom, and without telling an adult where she is going. She is in love with Prince Eric, although she has never spoken to him. It’s pretty superficial, but hardly traumatic if you ask me.

There’s more. According to some crazy American scientists, if I have behavioural problems, it’s the fault of my favourite movie, Peter Pan. The three children fly with Peter to Neverland. They don’t ask questions, but just take off with a total stranger, again without warning an adult where they are going and with whom. Then there is Tinkerbell, the lovely little fairy with a super skinny waist, blond hair and a short dress that barely covers her bottom. Wendy on the other hand, is a good girl, with a traditional night gown and good manners. That’s why the mermaids (who sit all day on a rock combing their hair and being pretty) make fun of her. She’s different and definitely not cool.

But the biggest issue is racism. Peter is friends with the Indian Chief and his daughter Tiger Lily. They use the words ‘Squaw’ and ‘How’, and sing a song about how the redskins became red. They sing that a long time ago, a Native American became red after kissing a girl, therefore implying that they were originally white and ‘normal’. The Chief is by the way very uncivilized and savage, as he holds Michael and John hostage. Okay, first of all, remember that this movie was produced in 1953, a different era. And second, what is wrong with little boys having the time of their lives playing at Indians? With feathers on their heads and coloured stripes on their faces if they want to! Yes, it’s a stereotype and it might be untrue and offending to some, but that doesn’t mean they don’t respect other cultures or will develop racist ideas when they grow up.

Let’s continue with the sex. Some people accuse Disney of using hidden messages in their movies. Sex sells, that’s a fact. And now even Disney is said to use subliminal sexual images in their movies. In the little mermaid for example, Ariel lives in a castle of gold. And on the cover of the first video release, there was an odd structure on the castle wall, resembling a penis. The final scene is the wedding of Eric and Ariel, and if you look closely it appears that the bishop is having an erection. In the Lion King, there is a cloud of dust that forms the word ‘sex’ and a star shaped like a penis. In the flying carpet scene of Aladdin, there is a verbal hidden message saying ‘teenagers take off your clothes’. It’s only a whisper in a dialogue and almost inaudible but its there.

There is some good news though. According to a study by Sharon Hayes from the University of Florida, three year old girls who watch Disney movies do not worry more about their weight as do girls who watch Dora the Explorer. Thank god!

Am I going to forbid my children to watch The Lion King or Cinderella because of this? Hell no. I hope they will love the Disney movies just as much as I did when I was young. And to experience the magic to the fullest, why not spend a weekend in Disneyland Paris? Gather the whole family, rent the best apartments in Paris, and say hi to Peter Pan from me!

via parisapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

3GSMA Mobile World Congress Barcelona

3GSMA Mobile World Congress 2010

Jan 22nd, 2010 by apartmentblogger

The Barcelona Montjuic Fair prepares to host the media event that will turn the city into the world capital of the mobile phone industry: the 3GSMA Mobile World Congress will be held from the 15th to 18th February. You are invited to join to this event, which brought together 47,000 visitors in 2008 and where you’ll find the best in new technology.

For the fourth consecutive year, the Catalan capital will host thousands of mobile phone companies who’ll showcase their latest developments. This internationally renowned congress stands at the foot of the towers of the Plaça Espanya. Formerly it was held in the French city of Cannes (1996-2005) where the seafront was full of stalls. There were those who even rented a yacht for special parties and meetings!

During the congress various conferences will be held. It will also grant several awards, such as the Green Mobile Award, the Best Technology Award, the Mobile Personality of the Year Award and Best Mobile Services, among others. GSM Association (GSMA) is the organizing company, the entity that brings together most of the suppliers, manufacturers and mobile service operators worldwide.

It is expected that the3GSMA Mobile World Congress will stay in Barcelona at least until 2012, so try to enjoy this year’s edition as it was the last one. Barcelona will become the global platform for telecommunications! If you are involved or interested in this kind of business, this is your perfect appointment: find out how this sector develops. More than 1.300 companies find in this congress an infinity of opportunities, ideas and perspectives for the mobile industry. This is a sector that does not know the effects of the economic crisis.

This is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in a world that is increasingly growing, the opportunity to discover the charm and richness of Barcelona. Come and visit this fair and the streets of the Catalan capital, you will not regret it! Rent Apartments in Barcelona; they are economical and very comfortable!

via blogonlyapartments.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Blondes are not that dumb anymore

Blondes are not so dumb!

It has always been thought that blondes are dumb… Who has not ever heard of this topic? The image of a blonde, shallow, very cute, but silly girl is widely known. But nothing could be further from the truth! Today, the myth has fallen. Blondes have rebelled against the stigma that has always neglected and ridiculed them. Some scientists of the National Academy of Sciences of The United States and of the University of California assure that the blonde women are more determined and more aggressive than the red-heads or the brunettes, which gives them a clear advantage when it comes to obtaining their goals or going in search of work. Who are the fools now? Not the blondes!

The study also concluded that women with blond hair get more attention and that they are treated better by the people. To figure this out, the researchers examined 156 students with blond hair, and corroborated that all of them, both natural and the dyed blondes, have a more warlike attitude than women with other hair colours.

Aaron Sell, the study director, also said that California is the “natural habitat of privileged blondes” as there the golden girls “have more rights than other women.” Incredible! On the other hand, they have indicated that the better you treat a woman, the more confident she feels, and she’ll gain initiative and self-sufficiency. As a result, blondes are more inclined to be aggressive in achieving social objectives.

Ingrid Collins, a researcher of the Psychology Medical Centre in London, has contested the study assuring that the conclusions are very interesting, but unreliable since the study was conducted within a very limited group of people and should not be generalized.

Have you ever felt discriminated for being blonde? It’s over! Attention, women of the planet because the blondes are out to get us! If you do not want to lose out, run to your nearest hair salon and dye your hair blonde. And to show your feminine wiles, travel to Budapest. Find some affordable and comfortable accommodation by renting Apartments in Budapest. You will not regret it.

via budapestapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Being in love with two people

Is it possible to be in love with two people?

Posted by seville | seville | Thursday 21 January 2010 12:44 pm

While common sense tells us that it’s the opposite and morality and psychology do not totally agree on it either, every day thousands of people claim to be in love with several people at once. It seems that under certain circumstances, our heart (or rather our brain) opens up two parallel channels for exchanging passion and affect. When someone falls in love with two people at once he/she feels that both give him/her the same or similar effects. He loves and suffers in an equal measure for the two of them.

But what do the experts have to say? According to a study led by the psychiatrist Peter Horvat, a member of the Argentinean Psychoanalyst Association (APA), “it is possible to be in love with two people at once (what is difficult is to keep hold of it)”. People who fall in love with a second person usually sees aspects that the first one does not have, hence he/she feels special feelings and sensations for both partners. Each one represents different things that do not cause conflicts. “The presence of one always denounces the lack of the other” says Horvat.

While double infatuation is feasible, the social and cultural barriers make it a stigma; this is something that is not well seen. It is in this moment when moral and guilty feelings arise, leading to a break-up in one of the two relationships.

It is necessary to emphasize that the man, as an animal, is polygamous (and he tends to have more than one mate throughout his life) simply due to the theory of the species conservation. The human being as an animal can not escape from the instincts of sexual behaviour. Moreover, man cannot escape from his cultural, rational behaviour and feelings, which are his instincts. Otherwise, we all would live naked running around the jungle and mating with everybody.

This means that while it is true that both women and men feel instinctively attracted to more people throughout their lives, they may simply choose one person (because of the imposed society patterns, except in some polygamous societies).

But, after all, if there is a feeling that knows no rules, standards or bonds, that’s got to be love. When it comes to love everything is possible! Are you in love? If so, pack your bags to go to one of the most romantic cities in Spain. The Andalusian capital will captivate your heart. Rent Apartments in Seville to find the best prices.

via sevilleapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Upcoming Concerts in Berlin

Upcoming Concerts in Berlin Guide

Any excuse to go to Berlin is good! Here are a few good reasons: how about a selection of the best concerts that will be held in the coming months? They will surely make you vibrate.

You know, you should not buy the concert tickets from one day to another. Unless you find it out very late and buy it on the web or at the box office the same day (much more expensive, of course). To avoid spending a fortune, take notes of the following artists who will play in the capital, and buy your tickets now!

We start with a French group called Le Peuple de l’Herbe, which will be in Berlin on 2nd March presenting its latest jewel, Tilt, their fifth album. The six band from Lyon play the most original music : a mix of horns, rhythms of hip-hop and dub, with English lyrics, electronic sounds and movie pieces… An original collage that will make you move around the dance hall without any difficulty!

We change the style with Eros Ramazzottti who’ll be in Berlin on 11th March. He will be travelling without a break while on his your tour 2009-2010, “Ali e Radici”. Probably the tickets will sell pretty quickly, so…buy yours now!

The Red Hot Chili Peppers will act on April 15th! Since 1983, the members of this legendary band just do not stop dazzling the masses with their guitars and electrifying voices. Come and sing with them Californication, By the way, Dani California and many other famous songs!

Some Andalusian sounds will also come to Berlin with the Flamenco Festival on March 20th and with the Osterflamenco Festival on April 3rd. These two appointments will raise your blood pressure!

For more Latin rhythms, Gotan Project will come on May 22nd. Since 2006, the three members are very famous thanks to its new proposals: electronic tango. Fascinating!

If you want a dose of passion, the Portuguese Fado Festival will be held on April 10th. For the younger crowd PINK will take the stage with her unbridled punk look on June 8th and for the most nostalgic rockers among us, AC / DC will appear on June 22nd.

These are just a few good ideas! Don’t be late; the German capital is so attractive that the tickets will sell like hot cakes. Don’t worry about the accommodation either, rent Apartments in Berlin, the cheapest and more comfortable way to stay in the German capital.

via berlinapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

How to decorate your home by recycling

How to decorate your home by recycling

Posted by milanblogger | milan | Wednesday 20 January 2010 12:23 pm

You’ve just moved in to your new apartment. It doesn’t matter if you bought it (congratulations!) or if you’ve rented it, your wallet is probably empty right now and your bank won’t give you any other loans. Either way, your flat has just the basic furniture: kitchen, bed, a closet, some shelves… The table is so tiny that you only can use it for a romantic dinner, but forget about a dinner with some friends!

How might you improve the aspect of your apartment without spending too much money? Recycling! Reuse recyclable materials and you will obtain great results. I bet on the dinning room ceiling a solitary sad light bulb is hanging without any lampshade. Why not to rescue the broken lamp from the previous flat? Take advantage of the old wiring and shade. You can also collect empty water bottles, and with a bit of patience convert them into original lamps. You just have to cut the top and the bottom and make a hole for passing the cable. Buy some nice paper, wrap the bottle and … done! The only investment is the bulb, which should be an energy efficient light bulb of course.

Light is very important, and now you have a more welcoming atmosphere, what else is missing? A real table and a sofa! You have noticed that the people upstairs are renovating and that they are changing the doors… Ask if they can give you an old one. Remove the handle, get two cheap easels, paint it and you will have a beautiful new table. To a get a comfortable sofa you don’t have to spend too much money either. To find a few pallets is easy enough: they will serve as a basis. Then you only will need to find a mattress (ask an aunt or a friend if they have an old one that they don’t use) and use it for the couch.

In general, any plastic container can be reused for other functions: some may serve as planters. Paint some tomato cans and transform them into very original pencil cases and you can use the windows as picture portraits…

Now that you have some ideas on saving money, why not reinvest it in a trip to somewhere nice? Have you always dreamed of going to the capital of Italian design? With the savings, you can buy a cheap plane ticket and rent cheap  Milan apartments. Perhaps the trip will give you new ideas for your creations!

via milanapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

Americas Cup 2010 Valencia | Valencia Blog

The 33rd edition of the America’s Cup in Valencia

Once again, for the second consecutive year, the oldest sailing event in the world will be held in Valencia (Spain) from 8th to 28th February. The success of the previous edition makes the Mediterranean city as the ideal location for this great event of international significance. Its infrastructures, optimal water conditions and a perfect organization, guarantee an incredible America’s Cup for 2010. The admission is free so this is an incredible opportunity to enjoy the sea, the Valencian port and above all this fantastic sports spectacle.

The 33rd America’s Cup will face the Alinghi team (the Swiss team) against the BMW Oracle team (the USA team), champion and runner-up respectively in the previous edition. The Alinghi team will compete with a catamaran, while their rivals will use a huge trimaran. According to the gusts of wind, the ships may reach up to 60km/h!

Both spectators and competitors will enjoy the perfect conditions, which would not have been possible if the event were celebrated in the United Arab Emirates (Ras al-Khaimah), the other proposed place. The Valencian water and wind are so regular and reliable that people call it the Fremantle of the Mediterranean (a port in Australia). The precision, the technology and the strategy are essential for this type of competition, and Valencia meets all these requirements.

Do not miss this event; it is the oldest of all sailing competitions! The first edition was held in 1851 under the name of “The Hundred Guineas Cup”, but since 1870 it is called America’s Cup in honour of the victory of the schooner America.

Take advantage of your trip to Valencia to visit the recreation and culture areas of the city, its delicious restaurants (the best paella Valenciana is a must), and enjoy the most impressive ships.

One of the best options to see the race close up is to go on board on one of the spectator boats so you can enjoy the event better. From the front line! Book your ticket now! You can also watch the teams training from the wonderful port. The onshore facilities are also fantastic.

It is also possible to make catamaran trips, with some explanations of the sport, as a true sailor. A range of emotions and pleasures await you! And now that you are going to Valencia, discover one of the most dynamic charming and chic Spanish cities. And for an even more enjoyable stay, rent Apartments in Valencia.

via valenciaapartments.me

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous

The Sitges Carnival

The Sitges Carnival 2010

Jan 20th, 2010 by apartmentblogger

The charming village of Sitges, just outside Barcelona, is not only famous for being one of the most popular gay destinations in Spain, but also for its colourful and lively carnival. Up to a quarter of a million Catalans, Germans, Britons and other Europeans will crowd the city for an entire week. At the Sitges carnival anything goes! Festivities commence on the Thursday before Lent with the arrival of the King of the ‘Carnestoltes’ and ends with the Burial of the Sardine on Ash Wednesday. Sitges is a town of revelers, and Carnival is the festival of all festivals.

Devils, angels, indians, cowboys, drag queens, pirates… During the Carnival, thousands of masks and costumes take to the streets to live these intense days of celebration, where the imagination and joy are felt everywhere.

During the carnival days the town of Sitges is governed by the ‘Carnestoltes’, (the king of the Carnival), with the collaboration of the Queen of the Carnival. Throughout this week dozens of social and cultural events are held, such as the famous carnival parade (‘Rua de l’extermination’) with floats, bands, etc. Thousands of disguised people run and dance of one side to another to the sound of music.

Among all the acts, the election of the Queen and the Infantile Queen of the Carnival, stand out which are present in all the important acts of the carnival, together with the King Carnestoltes. During Carnival week the ‘Xatonades’ are prepared, (a typical dish of xató and omelette), characteristic of the area and a characteristic at this time of year.

This year the carnival will be held between 11th and 17th February and the city is already putting on its best clothes to greet the thousands of spectators eager for fun. Nobody wants to miss the dances and the Xatonades, as well as the two evening parades: the Sunday Parade, known as “Rua de la Disbauxa” (Rampage Rua) and the Tuesday Parade, called “Rua de l’extermination” (Rua of Extermination). But these celebrations are not only for adults, but for children too. The evening parades are specially designed for them…

Come on; do not leave your costumes at home! Dive into the world of imagination and become a different person for a few days: a rock star, an astronaut even Kermit the Frog…anything goes! At the Sitges Carnival, fun is guaranteed! To find the best accommodation, rent apartments in Barcelona, and enjoy your stay in the city.

via blogonlyapartments.com

Posted via web from barcedona's posterous