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Last posts

La Mercè 2014: Music, Art and Tradition in Barcelona

Mónica Boixeda Barcelonian, Only-Be, Things to do in Barcelona

September is the Catalan month of the calendar. Between September 11 and “la Mercè” (September 24), locals take to the streets to fight their post-holiday depression with parties and concerts. “La Mercè” is the star of these celebrations. As the feast day of the patron saint of Barcelona, it has been held since 1902 and considered year after year to be the best summer farewell party. With a program of activities ranging from children´s workshops, parades of the big heads and giants, correfocs (“fire runs”), concerts for all tastes and, of course, the famous human towers, this festival manages to keep alive Catalan tradition while also showcasing the cosmopolitan and intercultural potential of the capital of Catalonia. Here are some of the activities you shouldn’t miss at the 2014 Mercè: Free concerts: The city is filled with settings, and a variety of artists are invited to liven up these festive nights. The main locations for this year include: the Joan Corominas plaza, the Moll de la Fusta, the Fòrum, the Plaça dels Angels and the Antigua Fábrica Damm (a former factory), where you can enjoy the performances of Mishima, Flamingo Tours, SR.WILSON & The Blackstarliners, Mariam the Believer orKlaxons, among others. You can find the entire program and the detailed schedule here: http://www.bcn.cat/bam/ca/index.html Street art: The Festival Mercè Arts de Carrer (MAC) is a great opportunity to discover new talent and original ideas in the field of dance, theater and circus arts. There are three main stages: the Ciudadela Park, Montjuic Castle and the Albéniz palace, where several technological shows will also take place. Kids activities: Children are definitely... read more

Oktoberfest, the Celebration of Beer

Mónica Boixeda Rankings, Travel Tips

When a tradition works, why not copy it? When Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen celebrated their marriage in Munich in 1810, they never would have imagined that their ceremony would be the origin of one of the most famous festivals in Europe and part of America. Today, in the twenty-first century, the German city is known for the event it organizes whose name speaks for itself and where mugs of beer and most authentic bratwurst are the main event over the course of several days filled with costumes, music and German-style partying. Tradition dictates that every self-respecting Oktoberfest should start with the famous opening of the barrel to the cry of “O´ zapft is!” This means “It is tapped!” And that is when the party begins and beer may be served. The beer must meet specific conditions (the Reinheitsgebot) to be considered authentic German beer: a minimum of 6% alcohol and it has to be brewed within the Munich city limits. Other key aspects of this celebration are the parades in costumes typical of the area, accompanied by brass bands and carriages which enliven the experience. Each city also organizes activities to complement the big events, which range from children´s shows and performances by live DJs to photography competitions. While access to the tents at Oktoberfest is usually free, we would still recommend reservations in advance to ensure a good spot. Then you’ll be able to kick back and enjoy authentic German cuisine and the legendary mug of beer that will bring out the German in you. Here are some of the cities where you can... read more

How to Deal with Jet Lag

Mónica Boixeda Do you like travelling?, Travel Tips

Jet lag is simply a maladjustment that occurs in our bodies when we change times without giving the body a break. Basically it’s a loss or gain of hours. And it’s something that influences a variety of aspects, including one’s mood. There are a few tips and tricks that can help you deal well with the worst possible jet lag. And although each person’s “clock” may be different, there are always common elements. Insomnia, fatigue, digestive problems, disorientation, slowness of memory, confusion in decision-making, poor concentration, loss of appetite, lethargy and irritability. These are some of the symptoms of jet lag. But how can one combat these symptoms? In this post, you will find out about some tricks that will keep you feeling the full affects of jet lag. For the curious: the medical term is “circadian dysrhythmia.” Jet lag is especially noticeable when traveling from west to east because in doing so we lose hours. Thus, the circadian rhythms (those having to do with sleep and hunger) are altered. However, when traveling from east to west, we gain hours, which does not cause a significant alteration of the biological cycle. This is why it’s much easier to adapt. The most reliable and accurate way to avoid jet lag is to adapt to the new schedule at least one week before your trip. If you’re traveling west, you should go to bed later and if you’re heading east, go to bed earlier. Even if your destination is Australia or New Zealand (the Antipodes), you will radically change your schedule and routine. Doing it gradually is less uncomfortable. Here are... read more