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Last posts

The City of Musicals: London vs. New York

Mónica Boixeda Travel Tips, Versus

Broadway or West End? Stephen Sondheim or Andrew Lloyd Webber? We will rock you or American Idiot? How does one decide? Fans of musicals will be familiar with these questions, and the truth is that even experts in the field are hesitant to give a definitive answer. This is probably due to the fact that both programming and productions are becoming increasingly similar between cities, and this makes it very difficult to make a choice. However, the data speak for themselves; it seems that in recent seasons, London has broken records in the number of theater-goers. What else would we expect from the city of Shakespeare? On the other hand, New York boasts of being much riskier and original when it comes to the release of new pieces, among which we always discover adaptations of films, books, and even television series (Spiderman, Shrek, Catch Me If You Can). The British, meanwhile, bet on tradition as a guarantee of success (The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, The Lion King) but are slowly integrating some new works (Once; Matilda, The Musical; Charlie and the Chocolate Factory). Of course, there are indisputable classics that have their rightful place reserved on both cities’ billboards season after season (Chicago, Mamma Mia, Miss Saigon), and that´s where the real battle is played: are they really the same presentations? Which cast shines more brightly? Which production is better? Whether for better or worse, that call is left to the viewers. For years, these two cities have disputed over who is the Theater City, which has resulted in each recruiting the very best of the entertainment... read more

Fashion Week in Madrid: Fashion Tourism

Mónica Boixeda Madrilenian, Only-Be, Things to do in Madrid

Fans and fashion freaks have a hot date this September: the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, to be held this month, from the 11th to 16th, at the Feria de Madrid. Season after season, Madrid puts her best foot forward for big names in the world of the catwalk. This edition includes new designs by Alvarno, Ulises Mérida and Leyre Valiente (as part of SAMSUNG EGO), as well as the participation of the brand Desigual and the return of Rabaneda and Maya Hansen. It´s no secret that fashion moves the masses, and fashion tourism, travel that is booked solely to be there for the next event, the next fashion show, or the last trade show dedicated to the realm of image and fashion, is becoming increasingly common. Pure paraphernalia, some may think. However, if it is true that fashion tourism is a type of tourism that’s a bit exclusive, using this as an excuse to travel is just as valid as that of festival-goers who organize their calendars around Primavera Sound, Sonar, Tomorrowland, etc. The Fashion Week is an important event for such tourists, which is why cities vie for a place in on the international circuit and to earn the sought-after title of “City of Fashion.” Paris, Milan and New York have succeeded in gaining this most fashionable reputation, while Barcelona, Madrid and London are still struggling to for this recognition. In addition, fashion tourism is one of the most profitable in economic terms. Fashion events attract an elite audience that promotes business on and off the catwalk; the hospitality industry, for example, is a primary beneficiary. It is... read more

The Best Cities to Visit with Children

Mónica Boixeda Rankings, Travel Tips

We know you love traveling with your little ones (and that they can’t be watched by their grandparents on every vacation). This is why we are dedicating this post to our recommendations for the best European destinations for traveling with children. And we didn’t just decide this by ourselves; we’ve asked experts on the subject. We contacted 6 of the best known family travel bloggers in Europe to find out what their experiences have been to give you the results. It seems like Paris is at the top of the list. Francesca of www.patatofriendly.com “The city that most warmed our hearts during our family vacation was most certainly Valencia and that is why we’ve chosen to recommend it as the best city for traveling with children. We fell in love with Valencia’s Turia Gardens; the giant Gulliver, which captured the attention of all the children, regardless of age; the City of Arts and Sciences with the Oceanography; the promenade; as well as the Cathedral; the market; and the unforgettable tapas tour through the streets of the city center. But what we liked most in Valencia was one of the more typical dishes: the patata rellena (stuffed potato) and especially how our little one of eight months ate it up with both hands!” Daniela Gallucci of www.malaikatravel.wordpress.com “A city that I love and would definitely choose for traveling with children is Paris: romantic, eclectic, rich in history and truly charming. I’ve visited Paris on many occasions since I was a child and as soon as I could, I wanted to take my daughter there. It was a wonderful experience... read more