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Museo de Arte contemporaneo:
On the last day of our trip to Barcelona, we had a chance to visit the Museu D’Art Contemporani de Barcelona, commonly referred to as MACBA. We got to see the most current exhibition of some famous works. I will be the first to admit that l am not a big fan of contemporary art.
My taste runs more towards the Impressionists. I love art that is visible, in the sense that l can look, and immediately recognize what the painting is. I don’t really care about trying to guess at what the artist is trying to convey or find a hidden meaning to it. None the less, l was curious to see if l would change my mind upon seeing some of the works.

MACBA Barcelona: (Intangible art and all)
The MACBA is located in the El Raval neighborhood, Ciutat Vella.  It is  very modern looking building made of glass that draws light inside, making it very bright and airy. When newly built, it was referred to as “The Pearl”. It’s easy to see why.
The building stands out in an area that dates back hundreds and hundreds of years, with their narrow streets and ancient architecture. You can still glimpse part of the ancient wall that enveloped the old city from the museum, and it is located just a few blocks from the Gothic Quarter. The little square right outside is a very popular place for skateboarders to show off their skills and is also a great place to people watch.
Museos Barcelona MACBA: First art exhibition you see is:
Some objects of desire
This main exhibition is a well known body of work by Lawrence Weiner, a New York born conceptual artist. This collection has been on permanent display since 2004. It is described as a mathematical equation that emphasizes the relationship between humans and physical objects. I didn’t get it :-). In case you can’t see what the equation is, here you go:
Some objects of desire
plus
Some objects of necessity
plus
Some objects of no concern
minus
Those things that escape notice
divided by
A force majeure
equals
Some things.
Say wwwhhaaattt ? :-)
The poor guide that we had was trying her best to describe it, but it was easy to tell that most of us there didn’t get it from the quizzical looks we were giving each other. I liked some of the paintings themselves, mostly red and blue symbols. They looked to me more like awesome company Logo designs which  l suppose is art in itself :-).
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I enjoyed much better the colorful works that were on display by other contemporary artists that were lesser known. I also liked the old black and white photographs that were on display. There were these sets of paintings that l can not recollect who they were made by. I think she said the collection was “two faces” or something like that. I loved those!
It showed you a man as he was, and then you flip open the canvas, and there was another face of the same guy, often the true character of the face. There is the face that you present to the world, everything is fine and dandy face, but underneath, there is the true self..some happy, but more often, sad, haunting, vicious or angry. Human nature!. That l understood.
 


Rinzen:
This is another permanent work by artist Antoni Tapies that is on permanent display at  MACBA. I struggled really hard with this one too. In the end, l still didn’t know what to make of it, The guide said it was a complex work, and was born out of some deep trauma that was experienced by the artist as a young man. It is supposed to symbolize fragility and instability. The Bosnian war was going on when it was first presented,

Upon entering the Alcazar Seville, I was immediately struck by how much it reminds me of our visit to Marrakesh. The Moorish design is quite obvious. The color and design of the tiles are reminiscent of the ones we saw at the Bahia Palace and the Ben Youssef Madrasa school of Koran.
The colors, the style and the workmanship were almost identical. It makes sense of course,  as Seville was ruled by the Almohades thousands of years ago.The Alcazar is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Spain.I totally believe it. Sure it’s smaller than the Alhambra of Granada, but it wows you nonetheless.
Alcazar Seville:
 
 Real Alcazar of Seville:
The Alcazar is done in  a style known as “Mudejar”. This was a name given to Muslims who lived in Andalusia and remained there after the Christians conquered it, but who did not convert to Christianity. The “Moriscos” on the other hand converted to Christianity. Mudejar is also an architectural style that is strongly Morrish influenced. The Mudejar people were later expelled anyway in latter years along with the Moriscos as their allegiance were questioned.
The Alcazar is still the official residence of the Spanish royal family when they visit Seville. It became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1987, same time as the Seville Cathedral.The official name of the Alcazar in Spanish is Reales Alcazares de Sevilla. Just like it happened in tons of other places, there was an original palace there called Al-Muwarak that was built by the Almohades. Going into the Alcazar is like going back in time, Muslim with a Christian twist.
Seville Palace: On the podcast:
Patio de la Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens):
The Legend of the name :-) as it is also called courtyard of the virgins. Featured in Alcazar Seville Game of Thrones.
There is a long, reflecting pool down the middle and it has sunken gardens on both sides. The courtyard used to be all marble with a fountain in the center. Evidence showed that the original plans had the pool and gardens, and they were therefore restored. The lower level of the patio was built for King Peter I. He is described as a “Sultan” in some of the inscriptions.
Baths of Lady Maria de Padilla at the Seville Alcazar:
Los Banos de Dona Maria de Padilla are rainwater tanks that are under the Patio. Unfortunately, we did not get to see these. We wandered around the palace and it’s gardens for almost four hours on a very hot Sevilla day and we completely forgot to go back inside and check this out. I guess we have to save it for our next visit. I hear they are incredibly beautiful :-). The baths are named for Maria de Padilla who was the mistress of Peter the Cruel.
Alcázar of Seville La Casa de Contratacion (House of Trade):
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Built in 1503 by the Catholic Monarchs to conduct trading with the New World colonies, meaning the Americas, Caribbean and Bermuda islands. Amerigo Vespucci, for whom America was named, was the originator of the phrase “New World”. There is a lovely chapel inside. Trade disputes were settled in the building.
Christopher Columbus actually met with Ferdinand and Isabella in the chapel. It used to be a lot bigger than it is now. There was a major demolition in 1964, with a lot of the offices either torn down and some more moved to the city of Cadiz. **Podcast misidentifies Columbus as the first man to use the phrase..sorry..it was Vespucci.**
Seville Palace: Charles V Ceiling Room:
Constructed between 1541 and 1543 under the reign of Emperor Charles V. It has 75 octagonal caissons. It also has the coat of arms of the Habsburg empire with inscriptions “Plus Ultra&...

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First podcast is in English, the second is in Italian.

We’ve been back from Marrakesh for a week now.  Since this would have turned into a small novel if l decided to just write about it,  l added an accompanying podcast so as to squeeze in as much information as possible. New for the blog is Federico’s take on Marrakesh in Italian, so if you want to listen to Italian, or just hear what he sounds like, here’s your chance. The journey started out a little rough when l realized upon getting to the airport that l had forgotten my luggage at home :-(.

A trip to the souk fixed that upon arrival though. Marrakesh deserves your visit. Here are the reasons why l think more and more people are discovering a part of Africa that has long been a playground for the extremely rich and very famous people like The Beatles in their prime, The Rolling Stones, and Winston Churchill.

History of Marrakesh:

Turbulent history-  Marrakech went through so many power struggles and captures in it’s over a thousand-year history. It still managed to rise from the literal ashes and stands as a true testament in the face of adversity.  It was ruled at various times by the Almoravids, the Marinids and the Saadians. It ultimately became a French Protectorate and home to stars like Maurice Chevalier, Edith Piaf and Josephine Baker. Marrakesh became independent in 1956.

The new city (Ville Nouvell), now called Gueliz was formed by the French diplomats, and planner Henri Post was commissioned to design it in 1914 on the outskirts of the Medina walls. Marrakesh became a “hippie Mecca” in the 60’s and a lot of the rock stars and fashion designers made homes there. Moroccans launched a grand plan to rid themselves of the long-haired westerners and their drug culture, clearing them out by the mid 70’s. French expats then moved in and began renovating the old town. It became a UNESCO heritage in 1982. Gueliz is where you would find all the modern conveniences of life, like banks, ATM, mall, theater etc. I prefer the old town.

Connection to South Spain (Andalusia) and Seville in particular. The Koutoubian mosque minaret is actually a twin of the one at the Giralda. Same thing for the one at the Hassan Tower in Rabat. Since the Giralda was used as a model for  so many other church towers, like Moscow’s Red Square ones  for instance, you could say it’s influence is indeed far-flung.

Arabic is the official language, with French being the second language. It makes sense therefore that most of the tourists are French people. A lot speak English as well, especially the younger ones, so don’t let that stop you.

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Where we stayed: where to stay in Marrakech

Our fantastic Riyadh Farhan experience, right in the middle of the Medina. Don’t even think of staying anywhere else :-)

 

 

 

Find fantastically priced Hotels in Marrakech

What to see in Marrakech: Not to miss places

The Djemaa el Fna Square

The main square in the Medina. Huge and lively. This is where you find the snake charmers and some scary looking monkeys and their handlers. Do not take pictures of them though, unless you are willing to shell out €1-2 per picture. No, thank you!

 

 

 

 

Majorelle Gardens:

Why is there a monument to Yves Saint Laurent you ask? Because he donated it to his adopted city. He was a famous designer and this was his primary house that he shared with his partner for many years.

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Poblenou Barcelona:
Barcelona is not just about Sagrada Familia, and the Ramblas. That’s all good of course, I have been there. There is however, another side of Barcelona that you should definitely swing by when you visit this little big city. I am talking about the up and coming town of Poblenou which means new village in Catalan. It is part of the Sant Marti district and bordered by the sea.

Here are some of the highlights from the accompanying podcast:
Poblenou:
Poblenou used to be an industrial town, with a lot of manufacturing and textile companies setting up shop there. Workers from other parts of Spain came there to work and it was basically abandoned when the industry went away. Squatters took up residence in the old derelict buildings as always happens. It’s still a work in progress, but that’s what makes it so exciting.
The city went through a revitalization in preparation for the 1992 Olympics. The train tracks that had separated Barcelona from the sea were removed. Barcelona suddenly became the coastal city that it should have always been.
The area is fast becoming the new it place. Artists and design companies set up shop there in the spacious lofts. The real estate market seems to be booming. Buildings in Poblenou include the Torre Agba, a 38 floor skyscraper designed by Jean Nouvel. It reminds you of the Gerkin in London.
It is, according to the designer, supposed to represent a geyser, but you can see why it has earned other names :-). It’s a sleek glass building that are done in the Barcelona colors of red and blue and is like a beacon in the city.
What to see in Poblenou Barcelona and beyond:
The new District 22 (@22), a trendy hipster place is poised to become the Silicon Valley of Barcelona. There is a major effort to bring more innovative companies with sustainable, and practical ideas. There is a designated urban plan to accomplish this. It’s basically a “live” test place for ideas, using the actual city. How cool is that? Plenty of tapas bars and hangouts are springing up alongside chic hotels.
 
 
 
The El Encants Barcelona flea market –  One of the places that has taken on a new look. It is a hybrid indoor/outdoor market. It feels outdoorsy and fresh air blows through, yet there is a glassy roof providing shade. I’ve never seen anything like it before. You can buy pretty much anything there, from used clothes to second hand electronics to new bathroom fixtures.
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Other places include the Forum building,  the DHUB, ( design museum of Barcelona). Poblenou even has its own Rambla de Poblenou, the main commercial street that goes from the Avenue Diagonal all the way to the beach. The beach of course lends itself to a lot of water activities. We got a chance to do some paddle surfing, kayaking and sailing. I declined, as l am terrified of the water :-). so while the others went off in their wetsuits, we took a long walk and visited the nearby Ciutadella Park.
This park is the oldest and most popular park in Barcelona. It is somewhat close to the Barceloneta beach. It has the usual triumphal arch that is common in many European cities, like Berlin and Brussels. It actually reminded me a lot of the Longchamps Palace in Marseille. It was interesting to find out that a young Gaudi (yes, that Gaudi of the famous, unfinished masterpiece that is the Sagrada) actually assisted architect Joseph Fontsere who designed it.

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IIoret de Mar:
Lloret de Mar was the perfect place to visit as a side trip when we were in Barcelona. Prior to the event we attended, l had no knowledge of the existence of this beach town. Now, l can’t seem to stop singing it’s praises. I fell in love. I hope my pictures do it justice.
Lloret de Mar has been a favorite destination for people in the European Union for ages. I knew Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner spent some time in Costa Brava during their tumultuous courtship. I did not know that Truman Capote wrote his classic “In Cold Blood” there as well. This was told to us by the town car driver. It’s hard to imagine how anyone could write about such horrible, grisly murders while surrounded by such incredible beauty.
How to get to Iloret de Mar from Barcelona:
There are 3 options for of travel Lloret de Mar to Barcelona or vice versa (Barcelona to Lloret de Mar):

* Bus. The Moventis #2 bus from either direction. It takes approximately 1 hour and costs €3 and up depending on when you book.
* Train. The R1 train from Plaza Catalunya in Barcelona to Blanes, at which point you transfer to a bus and get off at Lloret de Mar bus station. Total cost of the journey is roughly €3-7 and takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes.
* Driving. If you’re driving, your journey will be about 1 hour and the distance is 75 km. If you are renting, a car, get the best prices worldwide at auto Europe

The podcast covers:
Where to stay in IIoret de Mar:
Rosamar Hotel: Awesome!
The Hotel Rosamar and  Spa  which was right on the beach. It was a half board that included full breakfast too, none of that continental breakfast nonsense with dry croissants and cereal. The hotels in Lloret de Mar can be booked as all inclusive as well for a few extra bucks. Very convenient! All inclusive hotels save you from having to find places to eat and might end up saving you money since they are package deals.
Hotel IIoret de Mar: Rosamar view
 
There are beautiful beaches all along the coast line, so you have your pick. The closest one to the hotel was the Lloret beach. It was so nice to be able to walk the length daily to attend the conference. There were parties nightly, and l never felt unsafe walking by myself in the middle of the night.
 
I also loved walking down the narrow streets discovering little surprises like the Catholic church Santa Roma, with it’s Gothic look or a sweet little bakery that a friend and l had the most delicious red velvet cupcakes.
Santa Rosa Church:
Santa Clotilde Gardens:
The visit to Santa Clotilde Gardens was so special. It had the most amazing views of the sea. The gardens were donated to the city by the family that own the house. The upkeep required 14 gardeners daily! They do however still retain ownership of the house which is closed to the public. It’s such a beautiful place that you could easily spend hours just people watching and taking in the spectacular views.
Looking to move to Spain? Make sure to get your copy of our guide that walks you through all the steps so you can start enjoying your life in sunny Spain sooner.

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Lloret de Mar:

Lloret de Mar was the perfect place to have my first, and certainly not the last travel bloggers conference. Prior to this event, l had no knowledge of the existence of this beach town. Now, l can’t seem to stop singing it’s praises. I fell in love. I hope my pictures do it justice.

Lloret de Mar has been a favorite destination for people in the European Union for ages. I knew Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner spent some time in Costa Brava during their tumultuous courtship. I did not know that Truman Capote wrote his classic “In Cold Blood” there as well. This was told to us by the town car driver. It’s hard to imagine how anyone could write about such horrible, grisly murders while surrounded by such incredible beauty.

Getting to Lloret de Mar from Barcelona:

There are 3 options for of travel Lloret de Mar to Barcelona or vice versa (Barcelona to Lloret de Mar):

* Bus. The Moventis #2 bus from either direction. It takes approximately 1 hour and costs €3 and up depending on when you book.

* Train. The R1 train from Plaza Catalunya in Barcelona to Blanes, at which point you transfer to a bus and get off at Lloret de Mar bus station. Total cost of the journey is roughly €3-7 and takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

* Driving. If you’re driving, your journey will be about 1 hour and the distance is 75 km. If you are renting, a car, get the best prices worldwide  at auto Europe

The podcast covers:

Where to stay in Lloret de Mar:

The Hotel Rosamar and  Spa  which was right on the beach. It was a half board that included full breakfast too, none of that continental breakfast nonsense with dry croissants and cereal. The hotels in Lloret de Mar can be booked as all inclusive as well for a few extra bucks. Very convenient! All inclusive hotels save you from having to find places to eat and might end up saving you money since they are package deals.

 

 

There are beautiful beaches all along the coast line, so you have your pick. The closest one to the hotel was the Lloret beach. It was so nice to be able to walk the length daily to attend the conference. There were parties nightly, and l never felt unsafe walking by myself in the middle of the night.

 

I also loved walking down the narrow streets discovering little surprises like the Catholic church Santa Roma, with it’s Gothic look or a sweet little bakery that a friend and l had the most delicious red velvet cupcakes.

 

The visit to Santa Clotilde Gardens was so special. It had the most amazing views of the sea. The gardens were donated to the city by the family that own the house. The upkeep required 14 gardeners daily! They do however still retain ownership of the house which is closed to the public. It’s such a beautiful place that you could easily spend hours just people watching and taking in the spectacular views.

 

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