Shopping in Milan

Milan is a paradise for shopping lovers. All the clothes you have ever dreamed of are available in Milan. This is the home of fashion and design. It is also the home of the flagship stores of many great designers: Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Krizia, Missoni, Ermenegildo Zegna, Moschino, Mila Schön, and Trussardi among others. If you are a high priest or priestess of style, take the first flight to Milan and go directly to the so-called "Quadrilatero d'Oro" or the Golden Quadrilateral.

The Golden Quadrilateral is formed by the Via Montenapoleone, Via Della Spiga, Via Manzoni, and Via Sant'Andrea. They are the most expensive high-fashion Milan areas. These streets contain the most prestigious boutiques and showrooms in the world.

The most luxurious accessories, dazzling jewels, beautiful clothes... Everything is impregnated with ostentation in the Golden Quadrilateral. Many tourists just go to Milan to go shopping.

Via Montenapoleone is the most important street of the "Quadrilatero d'Oro." Here you'll find, amongst other things, all these boutiques: Gucci, Luis Vuitton, Prada, Tanino Crisci, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo, Tanino Crisci or Cartier. In Via della Spiga is the home of some other major brands such as Sergio Rossi, D&G, Krizia, Gianfranco Ferré, Tod's, Genny, Bottega Veneta, Prada, Chopard or Bulgari. Via Manzoni holds the Armani kingdom. It has a huge multi-concept store with a luxury Japanese restaurant, a show room and a cafe. In Via Sant' Andrea you can find such famous boutiques as Armani Chanel, Fendi, Kenzo, Moschino, Hermés, or Trussardi.

If you can not afford such high prices, don't worry! There are more affordable stores spread around four important streets: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Corso Buenos Aires, Via Torino and Corso di Porta Ticinese. Here you'll find the more popular stores such as H & M, Footlocker and Zara, etc

Outside the historic centre, there are thousands of fashion outlets, which sell last seasons major brand clothes at economical prices. For those who prefer the bustle of street markets, Milan not only stands out for its luxurious boutiques. It also has beautiful street markets where you can find almost everything you could wish for. Milan's largest street market is the one held on Via Papiniano: some stalls sell designer seconds clothes. There's an antiques market on Via Fiori Chiari and a large flea market, with everything from books to clothing to appliances.

Most shops open from 9:30 to 13:00 and from 15:30 to 19:30, although the bigger stores stay open all day.

Don't stay at home! Take your credit car with you and go to Milan to enjoy the most beautiful shops in the world! You will have a great time there so prepare to make your wallet tremble! Ren Milan apartments for the best accommodation.

Madrid Fusion 2009 - Creativity, Ecology and Saving For Times of Crisis

The year 2009 begins in the best possible way: once again, and for the seventh consecutive year, the International Gastronomy Summit is celebrated in Madrid. The act, which will take place from January 19th to January 22nd in the Municipal Congresses Palace, is the most important gastronomic fair in the world. There over 70 national and international chefs will meet in order to present the latest trends and new techniques on the culinary scene.

Madrid Fusion 09 premieres this year the "audiovisual cuisine", a new concept which will help to raise the discussion topics: the restaurants of the future, the restaurants service problems and the high risk dishes in vanguard. In addition, Mexico is the guest country of the year. Mexican chefs such as Bricio Dominguez ("Pre-Hispanic cuisine"), Ricardo Munoz ("Mexican soups"), Enrique Olvera, ("Contemporary Vanguard"); Mónica Patiño ("Moles") and Patricia Quintana ("Tortillas") will delight the most discerning diners with their typical dishes.

Throughout four days an endless number of conferences and round tables will be celebrated. Chefs such as Ferran Adrià and Andoni Luis Aduriz will discuss with other colleagues about topics such as molecular cuisine, environment cuisine, exotic markets or about the business models in these times of crisis. They will also discuss about gastro botany, about how to ensure the safeness of the food and about the imagination and the good humour of food (play food). They will also speak about the latest trend in U.S.A., the small plates.

Other high-level chefs, including Spaniards Quique Dacosta and Dani Garcia (with two Michelin stars each), will be speakers at the fair. Imaginative Swedish cook Peter Nilsson, as well as the British Heston Blumenthal will also be taking part.

Madrid Fusion gains relevancy year by year. This seventh edition counts on 130 exhibitors, 7.200 accredited people, 400 national journalists and 160 international ones. In addition, the Tropicana Cocktail Prize will take place.

Now take the first flight to Madrid. Can't you smell the delicious food? ? Rent Madrid Apartments to enjoy of the best accommodation in the Spanish capital. Enjoy your stay!

Paris For Children!

Paris is a fascinating city not only for adults, but for children. It is not longer the city of the lights, of love or of romance, now it is also the city of the kids! Paris has some wonderful sightseeing that kids will really love to visit. Its grandeur lends itself to playfulness. Paris is surprisingly a family friendly city! Kids have an amazing range of fun places to go to: there are beautiful parks and all kind of activities, including near the major tourist destinations.

All its major tourist attractions are well-known by just all the children: even young kids know about the Eiffel Tower! And what kid doesn't know the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Moulin Rouge? And if that wasn't enough, there are lots of museums made especially for the young ones and some café-theatres designed just for kids! There are many other funny place like the Zoos, ore the best theme parks in Europe, such as Disneyland Paris or the Asterix Parc. In addition, if Puppets turn your child on, there are plenty of puppet shows spread around the city, as they are a great tradition there.

A family walk along the Seine River is a must. Your children will enjoy of the beautiful city views! On the Right bank you can stroll through the Jardin de Tuileries, while your kids savouring a delicious ice-cream. On the other bank, your children can go to the Jardin du Luxembourg.

Go to Paris and don't visit Louvre's Museum is a crime. So, there is a family tour especially designed for children! It is called "Family Tour for Young Treasure Hunters". With this tour parents and kids will have fun together, and the little ones will learn and discover in a funny way many works of art! The younger set gets additional motivation through "Paris Muse Clues," with an educational and interactive treasure hunt. With this tour our children will discover many of the Louvre's masterpieces

There is another obligatory place to go: La Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. This is one of the largest and most visited science museums in the world! It has special sections for children called La Cite des Enfants and Techno Cite. There's also an aquarium, a submarine, and a planetarium.
The Luxembourg Gardens are like they're made just for kids. It is the largest park in the city and full of activities for kids. There are daily marionette shows and a classic beautiful carousel, pony rides and a pond where kids can float a rented toy boat.

Finally, a Seine River Cruise would be great for parents and children. The Batobus does a cruise down the Seine. Kids will appreciate with other eyes how beautiful the city is!

Who said that travelling with children is complicated? Not in Paris! Look after the perfect accommodation and choose Paris Apartments for your holidays to make feel your children as at home.

Milan - The Design Capital of the World

Milan is the capital of the Lombardy Region, besides being the home of international fashion and design. It is also an important financial and commercial centre. This is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city, full of elegant and distinct corners.

In addition, it enjoys a rich heritage that will take us thousands of years back in time because of its old monuments (such as Il Duomo's cathedral) and its beautiful art works (such as the famous painting "The Last Supper" by Leonardo Da Vinci, displayed in the Santa Maria delle Grazie church).

As Milan is the design capital of the world, the main streets of the city (Vía Manzini, Montenapoleone, Vía della Spiga and Vía Sant Andrea) are the ones that house all the major brand fashion stores: Dolce&Gabbana, Armani, Gucci, Versace, Devota&Lomba, Dior... There are also many outlets which sell past seasons clothes at economical prices and many popular stores as H & M, Footlooker, Zara, etc.

Milan holds one of the most prestigious design teaching centres of Europe: the "Istituto Europeo di Design". Thousands of young artists study there in the hope of becoming a great designer. Every spring and every autumn the 'Fashion in Milan' show is celebrated. Some famous designers present their new collections here.

But the city not only stands out for being the home of fashion but for its fascinating works of art and monuments. Formerly Milan was governed by the Visconti and the Sforza families. They were patrons of some artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci or Bramante.The famous Sforzesco Castle was the Sforza family residence. Nowadays, it houses a museum which shows Michelangelo's works of art.

Il Duomo cathedral is the most important tourist attraction in Milan and a very emblematic building. It is a vast Gothic cathedral crowned with 135 pinnacles and adorned with over 2,000 different statues. Inside it has 2,000 more statues spread over 5 floors. Its highest tower holds the golden Madonina, the patron saint of the city. Il Duomo is one of the world's largest cathedrals.

But Milan is also known as the home of the Escala theatre: it is the largest Opera in the world. There Verdi, Rossini or Puccini's works are played. In addition, it has two of its own philharmonic orchestras.

Another major tourist attraction as was pointed out before is the fresco by Leonardo Da Vinci, "The Last Supper", located in the Santa Maria delle Grazie's church (to visit it is necessary to book several months in advance). The church is of Renaissance style and it was built by Bramante.

Finally, the Pazzo di Brera is another essential element of Milan's "geography": it is an art gallery, library, Astronomical Observatory and Fine Arts Academy.

You will fall in love with Milan. It is a beautiful, amazing city. It cultural and leisure diversity is suitable for all wallets, tastes and ages. Rent Milan Apartments to enjoy of the city and have a great time there.

Rome, the Eternal City

The Italian capital can be called a past, present and future city. When you stroll through the streets of Rome, you'll realize the magnificence and historic richness of the city. In fact, it is a mixture of the old Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, Christianity, Baroque, Mussolini's fascist era and the contemporary Rome we know today. But it has always preserved it eternal beauty and magic!

Rome is a suitable city for all kinds of people: for adults, for children, for teenagers, for straight people, for gays, for single people, for married people, for Italians and foreigners... Rome enjoys a perfect climate; therefore, it is the perfect city for walking around and for eating outdoors. You can enjoy a delicious pizza, pasta or some delicious cheeses and exquisite wines.

When you see for the first time the Flavian amphitheatre, better known as the Coliseum, you will be left speechless. The amphitheatre was built by Vespasian, on top of the remains of the palace of Nero. The building was not completed until 80AD, under the rule of Emperor Domitian, the last emperor of the Flavian Dynasty. The amphitheatre was used to entertain people and therefore, it was one of the most remarkable monuments of the time. You wouldn't need too much imagination to remember the fights between gladiators and the exalted screams of the Roman public!

Going on a few steps you'll find the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, where Romans used to go about their daily lives: trade, business, prostitution, justice, philosophy... From a distance you can see the Campidoglio and the Circus Maximus.

Then get ready to enjoy the spirituality and the greatness of the Holy See in the State of the Vatican City. In front of Piazza San Pietro, designed by Bernini, there is a huge dome by Michelangelo. It has a few arches and statues that will leave you impressed. The Basilica is a must: inside it, you feel like you were immersed in another world. Do not forget to visit the Vatican museums: Raphael's rooms, The Sistine Chapel or the maps gallery.

In Rome there are plenty of tourist and non-tourist trips to join. The historic centre is the most beautiful part: from the Piazza Spagna to the Piazza Navona or the Agrippa Panthenon. The Jewish Quarter is interesting too, and it is considered a very alternative neighbourhood.

The Via del Corso is the most important street in Rome; there you can buy anything you want in the most famous stores of Italy: Prada, Versace, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Armani, Roberto Cavalli and Christian Dior to name but a few. Of course, there are shops with lower prices! Via di Ripetta is also a highly regarded street by the Romans. If you still have time, have a long walk through Villa Borghese, one of the most beautiful parks in Italy.

As you see, Rome is still a wonderful city. Its greatest charm is that you will always find something new and amazing to see. Rent Rome Apartments to have a rest and enjoy your stay there!

Seville has a special colour!

Seville is a very special city. It is more than 2,000 years old and it is famous for having a great, distinct and joyous personality. It is the largest town in Southern Spain and the capital city of Andalusia. The Sevillians are known for their sparkle and wit. It has the largest of Europe's historic quarters, full of churches, convents, monuments and Moorish buildings. In addition, it’s the home of the most deep-rooted Andalusian traditions: flamenco, the tapas, sevillanas and of course, bullfighting. Seville also has the most passionate Easter Week, the most festive April Fair and a lively nightlife. If you would like to discover the popular customs and enjoy pleasant weather, you should visit it in springtime (in summer the temperatures can reach some 50°C). Seville certainly is one of the most beloved destinations of the tourists that go to Spain.

The city of Seville is worldwide famous because of its festivals: the Easter Weak and the Seville April Fair. The Holy Week is a religious festival that dates back to 16^th century when the Catholic Church decided to present the Passion of Christ. During the Holy Week there beautiful and colourful processions are organized. Some huge wooden Saintly figures are carried by hooded penitents during the processions. Those processions leave deep impressions on the spectator and thousands of tourists come to Seville each year at Easter to see this.

During the April Fair, people set up some casetas (tents - booths) where they spend a whole week dancing, eating, drinking, and socializing. The fairground streets are also decorated with colourful hanging lanterns. Traditionally, women wear elaborate gipsy dresses and men parade around on their beautiful horses. Almost from the very beginning, bullfighting has formed an integral part of the Feria de Abril

Putting the city's festivals on one side, Seville is an equally impressive city that is still worth visiting. It lays on the Guadalquivir river banks and it has a wonderful historical centre full of important monuments. For example, Seville's cathedral is the third-largest in the world. It is a vast Gothic Cathedral with a worldwide famous minaret, the Giralda, where you can enjoy great views of the city. Another beautiful monument is the Gold Tower. It was originally part of the town-walls along Guadalquivir River. Very close by is the royal Mudéjar palace known as the Alcázar.

Seville has hosted two international exhibitions (1929 and 1992). The quarter of Triana on the other side of the river, La Macarena, Santa Cruz and San Bartolomé, the street of Las Sierpes, plus La Maestranza bullring, María Luisa park and the riverside walks are all representative images of Sevilla and a must see for any tourist.

Do you need any other reason to visit Seville? It is one of the most charming and beautiful cities in Spain and maybe in the world. Rent Seville Apartments to enjoy the perfect stay!

Merry Christmas From Paris!

If Paris is an amazing city throughout the year, at Christmas it becomes a spectacular place. During this festive season the French capital gives honour to its name - the city of lights. Thousands of bulbs adorn the streets, granting the city a unique appearance. Everything is flooded with light and the city shines awaiting Santa's arrival.

Paris is the perfect city to spend the Christmas holidays. It looks like a fairy tale. Not only the lights decorate the city, but thousands of Christmas trees, nativity scenes and shop windows give it a magical touch. In addition, some big wheels and ice skating rinks are installed in order to give the children an unforgettable Christmas. The colourful Christmas lights adorn especially the three major Parisian department stores - Galeries Lafayette, Printemps and Bon Marche. Even Santa Claus stays in Paris a few days before Christmas Eve to enjoy its charm!

While the entire city is splendid at Christmas, it's worth visiting certain places at this time of the year. And what better way to start than by strolling among the Champs Elysees, one of the most beautiful avenues in the world, especially this festive season. The Notre-Dame cathedral is another key place to go at Christmas time. Every year a huge Christmas tree with red ornaments is installed in front of the main entrance. In addition, on Christmas Eve the celebration of Midnight Mass is held here. The Trocadero Gardens are the perfect spot to see the iconic Eiffel Tower. It illuminates every hour for five minutes with thousands of golden lights. It is an amazing spectacle! Parisian people celebrate a special dinner the day before Christmas. The menu consists of fresh oysters, foie gras, smoked salmon, goose, turkey or roast chicken; then, they eat one of their exquisite chocolates such as the Bûche de Noël with Champagne.

There are two famous Christmas Markets: Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Saint-Sulpice. Both offer beautiful Christmas crafts and decorative objects, in addition to regional culinary specialties from all over France.

Travel to Paris this Christmas! No corner of the city will leave you indifferent. To enjoy of the best accommodation, rent Paris Apartments.

Merry Christmas!

Madrid's Gastronomy

Diners! - To the table! Spanish cuisine is world famous for being one of the most delicious and healthy. Among its many variants, you'll find Madrid's cuisine. This one is tasty and varied. Due to its geographical location, its dishes have been influenced by other areas of Spain and abroad. Although Madrid's cuisine is a clear example of the culinary mixture of cultures that Madrid represents, it does have its own identity: the tapas or the squid sandwiches are as authentic as the Puerta Del Sol"!

The Spanish emigrants' influx filled Madrid's dishes with many shades and textures. They have Moorish and Hispanic - Roman touches. In addition, the extreme temperatures have also influenced their recipes, which adapt to the different seasons: in winter, dishes such as the vegetable soup or the stew are the main protagonists; in summer, the cold dishes such as chickpeas vinaigrettes are the favourites.

Madrid is the epicentre of the tapas. This is a widespread custom in Spain. Among the most common ingredients you'll find sea food, sausages and cheese. There is a huge variety of tapas in Madrid: Spanish omelette, vinegar anchovies, pig's ear, squid, hot spicy potatoes, croquettes and octopus. Almost all the popular establishments serve tapas. Any neighbourhood is good to taste them, but Huertas and La Latina are the most authentic.

The most famous dish is the typical Madrid stew. It is a stew made of chickpeas, meat (pork, chicken or veal), sausage and vegetables. It used to be served in three dishes: first the soup made with the broth, then legumes and vegetables and finally the meats and the sausages.

Other typical dishes are tripe, made with lamb or veal tripe, cow leg and knob, sausage and puddings; chicken casserole, a stew made of hard boiled eggs, almonds and chicken; snails served with a spicy sauce, baked sea bream, and the "starry" eggs (you should taste them in the Casa Lucio restaurant), pig's ear, garlic soup, Spanish Omelette, the famous squid sandwiches, meatballs, garlic shrimps and mushrooms, the hot spicy potatoes and cod. The most famous drinks are the Chinchón and anise liqueur.

The backing of this tradition of Madrid is a major pride for its inhabitants. Many of the cakes are linked to religious traditions or some type of holiday: On November 1st, the fritters and the Huesos de Santo; at Easter, the French toast; in San Isidro, the donuts; in San Antón, the bread rolls and on January 6th the King's Cake (a large ring-shaped cake). Throughout the year you can taste the tejas and waffles. In addition, you can also taste the worldwide famous hot chocolate with Culin fritters.

Madrid's cuisine is delicious and varied. Do you want to taste their most typical dishes? Then travel to the capital and stay in Madrid Apartments for the perfect accommodation! Let your palate enjoy the most delicious gastronomy!

Paris Surroundings - Versailles and Saint Michel

Paris is a fascinating city. The French capital has captivated generation after generation, both old and young people. Who does not know its most famous monuments? The Eiffel Tower is a worldwide symbol; the Notre Dame Cathedral holds one of the most world famous legends thanks to Victor Hugo's novel, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame"; the Louvre Museum is one of the most famous and important in the world ... Probably you'll need more than a week to know in depth all its charms. But the Parisian surroundings are also noteworthy, especially Versailles and Saint Michel Mont.

Versailles

Just thirty minutes from Paris you'll find the city of Versailles. It is famous for hosting the splendid and spectacular Versailles Palace. This elegant city is placed so near to Paris, that we could almost confuse them. Versailles is a beautiful city with a traditional bourgeois taste. It is full of great avenues, historic buildings, antiques and art. The Saint Louis neighbourhood is the historic centre: its streets have been preserved since the eighteenth century. The French Revolution began and developed in Versailles. In addition, the famous Treaty of Versailles was signed here, which effectively ended the First World War.

The Versailles Palace is the main symbol of the city and of the French kings' absolutist power, especially of Louis XIV. Initially, the Versailles Chateau was a simple country house built by Louis XIII. The, Louis XIV ordered the transformation of the house into a spectacular palace. With that he provided a wonderful legacy such as the Hall of Mirrors, the Chapel, the Opera, the Peace and War Halls, the king and the Queen Rooms and the Queen Chamber, which has been conserved just as Maria Antoinette left it when she abandoned Versailles in 1789. Also the Palace gardens are a real treasure with perfect symmetry, floral designs, ponds and fountains spread everywhere.

The Saint Michel Mont

The Saint Michel Mont is one of the most visited monuments in France together with the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral or the Sacre Coeur. It is considered World Heritage by the UNESCO since 1979. This mount is an island joined to the continent by a road. There raises a beautiful abbey with Gothic and Romanesque elements. It was built in the seventh century, when St. Michael archangel appeared to Abbott bishop. The abbey has been one of the most important pilgrimage places in France.

Once on the road, the view of the island is a great spectacle, especially if the tide is low and the sides of the Mount turn into giant lakes of mud and quicksand. Thus this place is unique and magical. Once we are inside of the citadel, we go back to the past due to its labyrinthine streets, which are preserved as they were centuries ago.

After having visited two of the most beautiful enclaves of the Parisian surroundings, you will want to rest and to relax. And the best way to do it is renting Paris Apartments. Stay in an apartment and enjoy all the comforts and facilities it offers.

Berlin's Gastronomy

It is almost lunchtime and you've walked more than four hours through Berlin's streets. Suddenly, your stomach is rumbling and your mouth waters. Now you smell typical German food everywhere you go. Are you hungry? Discover what's cooking in Berlin's kitchens and as they would say, ¡Guten Appetit!

Berlin's cuisine is diverse, multicultural and of course, delicious. It has Turkish, Indian, Pakistan, Polish and Czech influences. In addition to enjoying the best "Haute Cuisine" (as in any other big capital), Berlin offers many popular and cheap dishes. It is the German city with the largest number of prize-winning restaurants: if you're a cuisine sybarite, this is the perfect destination for you. But if you prefer the popular and affordable cuisine, don't worry as you'll find suitable food for all tastes and wallets.

If you want to eat the typical German fast food, go to a classic "Imbiss". This is a street stall where you can buy some fast food, such as Berlin's "Bulettes", all kinds of German sausages or a Turkish Döner Kebab. The Boulette and Döner Kebab arrived in West Berlin in the 60's with the influx of immigrants. Currywurst sausag, with a lot of ketchup and curry is typically of Berlin, but is consumed across all Germany.

The traditional Berlin cuisine is rustic and substantial: normally, you'll find homemade recipes served in family environments. In addition, they serve abundant dishes with a variety of ingredients: potatoes, cabbages, cucumbers, vegetables, fowl and pork are the base of most recipes.

Traditional dishes include pork knuckle (Eisbein) with cabbage, cabbage (Sauerkraut) and mashed peas; beef (Rinderbrust) with horseradish, smoked pork (Kasseler); roast liver with apple; mashed potatoes (Stampfkartoffeln) and roast goose. In many of Berlin's restaurants you'll find a daily menu, called "unter de Woche". Normally, they serve dishes with sauces, potatoes, puddings, leberwurst (a sausage based on liver mash), mashed potatoes, Königsberger Klopse (meatballs with mustard sauce), hamburgers with Kartoffelsalat (cooked potatoes with many ingredients) and apple puree (Apfelmus). Also, they are used to eating herrings (this is the favourite fish in Berlin), which can be cooked in many different ways.

If you want to eat in cheap and good restaurants, go to the Kreuzberg and Neukölln neighbourhoods. If you don't have cash, ask if they accept credit card, because not all the city's restaurants have this service.

The typical drink of Berlin is beer. There are all kinds of beers in Berlin: lagers, black, red, wheat ... There is even a special beer for breakfast called Molle! The Molle is a Pils beer that comes from the most traditional breweries in Berlin. Beer with lemonade (shandy) is called Radler and beer with cola is called Diesel. The Berliner Weiße is a typical Berlin beer. The best locations to enjoy a good beer are the Biergarten, which are beer gardens or outdoor patios where you can have a drink and something to eat.

Now, after eating the best meal in your life, you're probably going to need to rest up a bit. Rent Berlin Apartments and give yourself this genuine experience!

Happy Christmas, Madrid!

Christmas time is here! In the distance people can perceive the jingle of the reindeer flying over Madrid. When December arrives, the city prepares to transform its habitual image into another much more dynamic, lively and bustling one. The capital's streets put on their best face in order to receive the long awaited event: the lights, the nativity scenes and the Christmas decorations give Madrid a unique and magical touch at Christmas time. In addition, the white holidays bring with them a huge range of activities designed for all kind of people. Christmas in Madrid is a beautiful spectacle that nobody should miss!

The lighting up of the Christmas lights each Nov. 28th provides the starting signal for the Christmas holidays. With all these lights Madrid looks like a princess, splendid and full of jewellery. Once again, worldwide famous designers and architects are responsible for adorning the city. Oscar Mariné has been chosen to light the famous Gran Vía Street, based on peace and tranquility. Teresa Sapey and Delfín both make their debut this year with original proposals such as eyes or simple beautiful lines. On the other hand, Juan Duyos, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Elio Berhanyer, Amaya Arzuaga or Francis Montesinos repeat for the second consecutive year. In addition to street lighting, there will be up to 25 giant Christmas trees dotted throughout the city; they also have been designed by design gurus such as Devota & Lomba.

Once again, the City Council has set up "the Christmas bus", a bus that travels throughout the main streets of Madrid to show the Christmas lights and decorations of the city. The ticket costs one euro for adults and free for children under the age of seven. This special line will circulate between December 6th and January 6th, from 18:00 to 22:00 hours among the Colón square, the Cibeles fountain, the Gran Vía street, the Oriente Square, the Mayor's street, the Puerta del Sol and the Neptuno fountain.

For the second consecutive year, the Colon Square will host the "City with Kids". Every type of workshop imaginable is organized here, from story telling to games for the very young. In addition, King Esplanade will host an ice rink of 800m2, where both grown ups and little people will have fun together.

The next December 23rd, the City Council will celebrate Christmas time with the Madrileños and the tourists with fireworks and a light show on the façade of the Cibeles Palace.

One of the great innovations this Christmas is the exhibition of ice sculptures. More than 60 international artists have created ice monuments in order to reproduce famous Madrid monuments and places such as the Puerta de Alcala or the Santiago Bernabéu stadium which is home to Real Madrid football club.

There will be also 25 nativity scenes spread throughout the city, with the star attraction to be held at the town hall (designed by the sculptor José Luis Mayo), which debuts with a new location: the Cibeles Palace.

As usual, thousands of Spaniards will say good bye to the 2008 year eating 12 grapes when the clock strikes 12 in the Puerta del Sol. Finally, on January 5th 2009 the traditional Parade of the Three Kings will take place.

Christmas time in Madrid is very special! If you want to spend these beautiful days in the Spanish capital, rent Madrid Apartments and enjoy of the best Christmas in your life.

¡Feliz Navidad, Madrid!

¡Por fin llega la Navidad! A lo lejos se percibe el cascabeleo de de los renos sobrevolando Madrid. Llegado el mes de diciembre, la ciudad se prepara para transformar su imagen habitual en otra mucho más dinámica, alegre y bulliciosa. Las calles de la capital visten sus mejores galas para recibir tan esperadas fiestas: luces, belenes, abetos y multitud de adornos navideños profieren a Madrid un toque mágico e inigualable en Navidad. Además, las fiestas blancas traen consigo un enorme elenco de actividades pensadas para todos los públicos. ¡Y es que la Navidad de Madrid es todo un espectáculo que nadie debería perderse!

El encendido de las luces de Navidad cada 28 de noviembre da el pistoletazo de salida a las fiestas. Con él, Madrid se asemeja a una princesa llena de alhajas. Una vez más, diseñadores y arquitectos de renombre mundial son los encargados de adornar la ciudad. Óscar Mariné ha sido el elegido para iluminar la famosa Gran Vía, basándose en el silencio y la calma. David Delfín y Teresa Sapey debutan este año con propuestas originales como ojos que se cierran y se abren o líneas sencillas, pero no exentas de belleza. Por otro lado, repiten grandes nombres como Juan Duyos, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, Elio Berhanyer, Amaya Arzuaga o Francis Montesinos. Además de la iluminación de las calles, habrá hasta 25 gigantescos abetos repartidos por toda la ciudad y también diseñados por maestros como Devota & Lomba, al que ha sido encargado el de la puerta del Sol.

Una vez más, el Ayuntamiento ha puesto en funcionamiento “el bus navideño”, un autobús que recorre las principales calles del centro de Madrid donde la iluminación y los adornos son un verdadero espectáculo. El billete cuesta un euro a los adultos y es gratuito para los menores de siete años. Esta línea tan especial circulará entre el 6 de diciembre y el 6 de enero, de 18 a 22 horas, y pasará por Plaza de Colón, Cibeles, Gran Vía, la plaza de Oriente, la calle Mayor, la Puerta del Sol y Neptuno.

Por segundo año consecutivo la plaza de Colón será la sede de la llamada Ciudad con Niños, donde se realizarán todo tipo de talleres, cuenta cuentos y juegos pensados para los más pequeños. Además, la explanada del Rey acogerá una impresionante pista de hielo de 800m2 donde grandes y pequeños podrán divertirse juntos. Allí mismo se realizarán múltiples actividades para todos los públicos como exhibiciones de patinaje, funciones teatrales, canto de villancicos, gospel o jazz e incluso emocionantes partidos de jockey.

Al igual que el pasado año, el próximo 23 de diciembre, el Ayuntamiento felicitará la Navidad a todos los madrileños y turistas que se acerquen a la capital con un espectáculo de luz, pirotecnia y magia sobre la fachada del Palacio de Cibeles.

Una de las grandes novedades de estas Navidades es la exposición de esculturas de hielo, donde más de 60 artistas internacionales han creado monumentos de hielo para reproducir espacios tan representativos de Madrid como la Puerta de Alcalá, o el estadio Santiago Bernabéu.

Por si fuera poco, se podrán ver hasta 25 belenes repartidos por toda la ciudad, como protagonista el del Ayuntamiento (diseñado por el escultor José Luis Mayo), que estrena una nueva ubicación en el Palacio de Cibeles.

Como de costumbre, y para disfrutar de unas fiestas típicamente madrileñas, la Puerta del Sol despedirá el año al son de las doce campanadas, donde miles de españoles se reunirán para comer las uvas de la buena suerte.

Como colofón final, el día 5 de enero de 2009 tendrá lugar la tradicional Cabalgata de Reyes, donde sus Majestades los Reyes de Oriente saludarán a miles de niños que tendrán que acostarse temprano si quieren recibir sus regalos al día siguiente.

Como ves, las Navidades madrileñas van a dar mucho de sí. Si quieres disfrutar del encanto de las fiestas blancas, alquila apartamentos en Madrid y déjate contagiar por el espíritu navideño de la capital.

If there is something that Berlin can be proud of, it is its hectic nightlife.

Berlin's nights set trends around the World. Together with New York and Madrid, Berlin has become a reference point for party-goers. Berlin is in fashion! The night owls will always have a place in the German nightlife, full of offers for all tastes and wallets.

Those who already know the German capital will recognize that it is a dynamic and wild city: its out of control architecture is a clear example! Its chaotic neighbourhoods give it an alternative touch to its cultural and social life. Its bars and nightclubs can also attest to this and give the city an open-mind, cosmopolitan, heterogeneous and indomitable spirit. The Berlin nightlife has resurfaced since the Wall's fall. In the German capital cabaret and techno music were born. Nowadays, it is a reference of the electronic music and the hardest sounds.

Any place is a good place to go and party in Berlin, but these neighbourhoods are in fashion: Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain. Friedrichshain district is the most progressive at the moment. After German reunification, many artists and students moved from West Berlin to Friedrichshain. Every Friday and Sunday evening, lots of teenagers and friendly punks fill the Friedrichshain squares until the early hours, bottles in hand. (In Germany it is not forbidden to drink in the streets). Friedrichshain is the cheapest neighborhood to party in Berlin. Mitte is the most visible face of the "new Berlin" and it is constantly evolving. It is also the most touristic neighbourhood and it has all kinds of bars and establishments. Prenzlauer Berg is one of the most complete neighbourhoods of the city to go party! It is an alternative quarter due to its bars, its little cafés, its concert halls and its designer shops.

Lately, there have become fashionable the so called After-Work-Clubs: there you can have a drink and dance with your colleagues after work! The best bars in the city are Die Bar and Morena in Kreuzberg, and Pinguin Club, Zoulou and Fischlabor in Schöneberg. The classic Harry's New York Bar and Bristol Bar are quieter and more sophisticated. The most famous clubs are the cosmopolitan Annabelle's, the huge Metropol and Tränenpalast. In addition, there are the legendary discos such as the Sage Club or the Kit Kat Club.

If you want to enjoy the most amazing nightlife of the old continent, Berlin is the city you're looking for. Rent Berlin Apartments to spend the perfect holidays and enjoy the night!

Berlín, capital europea de la vida nocturna

Si de algo puede jactarse la capital alemana es de su ajetreada vida nocturna. Las noches de Berlín marcan tendencias en todo el mundo, ya que junto a Nueva York y Madrid, se ha convertido en un punto de referencia para los amantes de la fiesta. Berlín es noctámbula y está de moda. Los trasnochadores siempre tendrán un hueco en la noche berlinesa, llena de propuestas para todos los gustos y bolsillos.

Quien ya conozca la capital alemana, sabrá que se enfrenta ante una ciudad dinámica y salvaje. Sus barrios y arquitectura descontrolada son testigo de ello, lo cual le dan un toque alternativo a su vida cultural y social. Sus bares y discotecas también dan cuenta de ello y le otorgan un espíritu abierto, cosmopolita, heterogéneo e indomable. La noche berlinesa ha resurgido desde la caída del Muro. En Berlín nació el cabaret y más recientemente el techno. Hoy en día, es referente de la música electrónica y los sonidos más duros.

Cualquier lugar es bueno para salir de fiesta por Berlín, pero los barrios de moda son Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg y Friedrichshain. El barrio de Friedrichshain es el distrito más progresivo del momento. Tras la reunificación de Alemania, muchos artistas y estudiantes del Berlín Occidental se trasladaron a Friedrichshain. Se trata e la zona más barata de Berlín. Por las noches, las plazas del barrio se llenan de adolescentes que comparten la fiesta con punks amigables hasta altas horas de la madrugada botellín en mano. Y es que, en Alemania no está prohibido beber por las calles. Mitte es la cara más visible de “la nueva Berlín” y está en constante evolución. También es el barrio más turístico y está dominado por locales de todo tipo. Junto a Friedrichshain, Prenzlauer Berg es uno de los barrios más completos de la ciudad en lo que a la noche se refiere. Tiene un toque alternativo con muchos bares, pequeños cafés, salas de conciertos y tiendas de diseñadores locales que han convertido el barrio en un motor dinámico que no duerme de día ni de noche.

Últimamente se han puesto muy de moda los After-Work-Clubs, unos locales de ambiente relajado para reunirse después del trabajo para tomar algo y bailar. Entre los mejores bares de la ciudad se encuentran el Die Bar y Morena, en Kreuzberg, Pinguin Club, Zoulou y Fischlabor, en Schöneberg. El clásico Harry´s New York Bar y Bristol Bar son más tranquilos y sofisticados. Están en el Grand Hotel Esplanade y en el Bristol, respectivamente. Las discotecas más famosas son la cosmopolita Annabelle´s, la gigantesca Metropol y Tränenpalast. Además, están los clubs legendarias como el "Sage Club" o el "Kit Kat Club.

Si quieres gozar de la juerga más alucinante del viejo continente, Berlín es la ciudad que estás buscando. No disfrutarás tanto de la noche en ningún otro sitio como en la capital alemana. Alquila apartamentos en Berlín para hacer de tu estancia unas vacaciones inolvidables.

Los alrededores de París

París es una ciudad fascinante. La capital francesa ha cautivado, generación tras generación, a grandes y pequeños. Y es que, ¿quién no conoce sus monumentos más famosos? La Torre Eiffel es un símbolo mundial, la catedral de Notre Dame alberga una de las leyendas más famosas de la historia gracias a la novela de Víctor Hugo, “El Jorobado de Notre Dame”, el museo del Louvre es uno de los más famosos e importantes del mundo… Probablemente se necesite más de una semana para conocer a fondo todos sus encantos, que son muchos. Pero los alrededores parisinos también son dignos de mención, especialmente Versalles y el Monte de Saint Michel.

Versalles

A tan solo treinta minutos de París se encuentra la ciudad de Versalles, famosa por albergar el fastuoso y espectacular Palcio de Versalles. Esta elegante ciudad se encuentra situada tan cerca de París, que casi podríamos confundirlas. Versalles es una preciosa ciudad burguesa de sabor tradicional. Está repleta de grandes avenidas, edificios históricos, anticuarios y arte. El barrio de Saint Louis es el casco histórico: sus callejuelas se conservan desde el siglo XVIII. En Versalles comenzó y se llevó a término la Revolución Francesa. Además, se firmó el famoso Tratado de Versalles, que puso punto y final a la I Guerra Mundial.

El Palacio e Versalles es el principal símbolo de la ciudad y del poder absolutista de los reyes franceses, especialmente de Luís XIV. Al principio, la Chateau de Versalles era una simple casa de campo construida por Luís XIII. Más tarde, Luis XIV mandó a su arquitecto hacer del edificio un palacio sin igual, dejando con su legado maravillas como la Galería de los Espejos, la Capilla, la Ópera, los Salones de la Paz y de la Guerra y las habitaciones del rey y de la reina y la Cámara de la Reina, que se conserva tal y como la dejó María Antonieta al abandonar Versalles en 1789. Pero no sólo el interior del Palacio resulta impresionante: los jardines son una verdadera joya con perfectas simetrías, diseños florales, estanques y fuentes distribuidos por doquier.

El Monte de Saint Michel

El Monte de Saint Michel es unos de los monumentos más visitado de Francia junto con la Torre Eiffel, la catedral de Notre Dame o el Sacre Coeur. Éste fue nombrado Patrimonio Mundial por la UNESCO en 1979. Este monte es un islote unido al continente por una carretera y donde se erige un impresionante abadía de elementos góticos y románicos. Ésta se remontaal siglo VII, cuando el arcángel san Miguel se apareció a Abert, obispo de Avranches que fundó aquí un oratorio. Esta abadía ha constituido uno de los lugares de peregrinación más importantes de Francia.

Una vez en la carretera, la visión de la isla es todo un espectáculo, especialmente si la marea está baja y los laterales del Monte se transforman en gigantescos lagos de barro y arenas movedizas que hacen del lugar un sitio único y mágico. Una vez dentro de los muros de la ciudadela, nos adentramos en otra época gracias a sus laberínticas calles, que se conservan como lo estaban hace siglos.

Después de haber paseado por dos de los enclaves más bonitos del extrarradio parisino, querrás descansar y relajarte. Y qué mejor manera de hacerlo que en apartamentos en París. Alójate en un apartamento y disfruta de todas las comodidades y facilidades que ofrece.