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September 30, 2008

Great activity for rainy days - Aquarium Barcelona

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If you are on holidays in Barcelona, you will have sunny days most of the time. But if there is one cloudy and rainy day, it is a good opportunity to visit the most important marine leisure and education centre in the world concerning the Mediterranean which is located in Barcelona. It consists of a series of 35 tanks, 11,000 animals and 450 different species, six million litres of water and an immense Oceanarium that is the only one in Europe. Since its opening in 1995 it has already been visited by more than 14 million people. One highlight is an underwater tunnel, 80 metres long. You walk directly through a huge tank with sharks. The excellent combination of information, entertainment and education makes sure that everybody gets its get one's money's worth. The Aquarium Barcelona offers two absolute highlights for adults and children. Children between the age of 8 and 12 has the possibility to spend a night with sharks. That means they can stay one night in the aquarium and sleep surrounded by sharks. An unforgettable experience! Adults can dive with sharks, but they need a diving qualification. A nice Barcelona apartment close to the aquarium is the Selva de Mar Duplex Apartment. It offers space for up to four people and has 120m², two balconies and a nice view to the sea. Enjoy your day in Barcelona and discover the Mediterranen sea life!

September 26, 2008

Poble Espanyol - Spain at a glance

During your holidays in Barcelona, you should definitely visit the Montjuic area. One of the attractions is Poble Espanyol, a village that contains characteristic homes, squares and streets of all Spanish regions. It was built in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exhibition that took place in that year. From the beginning, it was conceived as a real "village" in the middle of a city, with a surface area of 49,000 m². In the village there are a lot of souvenir shops, restaurants, bars,cafés, a bank, discoteques and several interesting craftman's establishments. Some of them shows live to the visitors how they are manufacturing their products, for example the glasblowing. There are also activities for children so that they are not going to be bored. Visiting the Poble Espanyol is a great opportunity for the whole family to gain insight into the Spanish culture. Barcelona hotels and Barcelona apartments are close to the Poble Espanyol, for example the Montjuic Apartment Ramblas Port. The well equipped apartment with balcony offers space for up to four persons. Especially the panoramic view is particularly loved by its visitors.

September 25, 2008

Nautical fair in Barcelona, your accomodation specialist is here!

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Barcelona will be hosting the 47th edition of the Salón Náutico Internacional de Barcelona which is the main yacht exhibition of the year. From the 8th until the 16th of November, more than 180 000 visitors will find there way into the Fira Barcelona. If you planned to go visit, for professional reason or just for fun, be sure to find a nice hotel near the Fira. The Hotel Fira Palace would be perfect for you. Located on the Plaza España, this charming hotel would offer you the comfort you'll need after a day walking in the 121 000m²'s Fira. If you are staying a little far away, you will have no problem to go to the show. Just avoid taxis because of the crowd. Your best way to get there will be the underground, just go down at the station Espanya. That's it you got all the tips to make your stay unforgettable. And if you are willing to make a tour of the city, don't hesitate to book it in advance on the BarcelonaPoint's website.

September 23, 2008

On vacation with the Holy Family

If you spend your holidays in Barcelona, it is almost obligatory that you visit the most famous building of the city: Sagrada Familia. Located in the North of the district Eixample. The construction of this church begann in 1882 and it has not been finished until today. The original architect was called Francisco de Villar. But only one year later, there was a big dispute between the owner and the architect. So Gaudí became responsible for this project. He constructed a church in Gothic style with a crosswise ground. Normally it should be finished 43 years ago, but Gaudí did not let himself be pressured. However, he died in 1926 by an accident. Today 8 of 18 towers are finished. It is planned to finish the church until 2026, the 100. anniversary of Gaudí's death, but it depends strongly on the funds. All components have to be fabricated specifically. Therefore, an enormous budget is necessary. If you are looking for a Barcelona hotel near this impressive building, the Sagrada Familia Hotel is a good choise, as it has a very good reputation. Of course, there are a lot of further accommodation in Barcelona that will meet your expectiations.

September 17, 2008

Tibidabo - 512 m above Barcelona

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Tibidabo is the the highest mountain in Barcelona and the highest peak of the "Serra de Collserola" mountain range as well. When the weather is normal, you can see Tibidabo from every point of the city and if you are are on this mountain, you will have a beautiful panorama view over the city. At the top of Tibidabo, there is Sagrat Cor (cat. "holy heart") cathedral. It is a wonderful building with gorgeous mosaics in the interior. You can enter the cathedral for free. Furthermore, there is an elevator that carries you to the top, where you are very close to a Christ statue out of bronze. It is a very impressive feeling.

In addition, there is a theme park on Tibidabo which is older than 100 years. Therefore it spreads a very nostalgic atmosphere. It is ideal for families, as there will be no boredom.
The mountain can be reached by car or by cable car.

If you spend your holidays in Barcelona and want to be close to Tibidabo, there are several Barcelona apartments in the district Sarrìa-Tibidabo. It is a very safe and quiet place. One apartment is the Ganduxer Executive Apartment. It is particularly loved by families and older couples.

I tried...a football game at Camp Nou

Camp Nou 2.jpgYesterday was the first game of the UEFA Champions League between FC Barcelona and Sporting Lisbon. I had to go to see the game and try this famous stadium. I took care of inviting a friend and thanks to him we had great seats just above the entrance. Entering the stadium, you'll be surprised about how big it is, it comes an impression of majesty.
Players are coming to the playground and, surprise, only Lisboan's supporters were singing and we could hear them! When the game began, Spanish supporters stayed quiet, applauding for each time the FCB team was attacking. Half-time, time to get some food, one pack of salted pop-corn and a drink later, back to the game. The score is still 1-0 for the local team and the challengers are coming close to the Spanish goals.60th minute, penalty kick for Eto'o and a second goal. The stadium is cheering its team. A great header from Tonel brings Lisboan team back to the game but finally a beautiful action concretized by Xavi permitted to set the score at the 87th minute.
Other particularity, a quarter of the stadium left 10 minutes before the end (and so missed the last goal), probably to get their cars and avoid the crowd. That did not matter us as we were on a scooter (definitely the best way to move in this city).
End of the game, tradition want everybody to go have a frankfurter sausages sandwich and a beer in small bars. Everybody comments the game, the victory is Spanish and then the crowd leaves to go back home.
The impression is quite weird about that since most of the stadium is filled with Spanish executives that own their seat. To conclude this review, let's say that it is one time again a strong Spanish and catalan culture here in Barcelona that we can even meet on a football game night filled with tradition. You'll just need to find an hotel in Les Corts, near the stadium, and lucky you, BarcelonaPoint is here for you!

September 16, 2008

Winning bet for fall

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As Fall is coming, some news are following or should I say how to make new palaces with old places. Last in date, the reopening of the famous local Bailén 22. Now called Lotus Theater, this old brothel had almost no chance to see the sun again after the neighborhood's complains that drove to its closing about one year ago. But it is in this brand new night club that can afford more than 500 guests that you would spend your nights enjoying Barcelona's nightlife. Strippers' podium has left the space to a double bar that would permit you to seat and have a drink with your friends on the elegants lounge's sofas without any waiting. The music, eclectic and carefully chosen will for sure drive you to the dancefloor for a hot dance. At least, don't plan to come before 1am as the disco would look a little empty. While waiting, you could always hang out in the area close to the city center where you'll discover the numerosous tapas bar. And about your holiday accomodation, don't worry! Barcelona Point takes care of everything. From the Barcelona's apartments to hotels in the city center, this accomodation specialist will surprise you by the variety of its solutions.
One question left: Mojito or Margarita?

September 12, 2008

Dos and Don'ts in Barcelona

144470387_8dd4306d73_m.jpgIf you spent your holidays in Barcelona, you might do not bring your own car. Because often the streets are totally overcrowded and especially in the rush-hour you are faster by walking! But if you still want to drive by car, you should not leave your valuables in the car when you go away, because they will be stolen when you come back. If you book a Barcelona hotel in the city centre, you don't even need a car.
If you smoke, you have to go outside the bars and restaurants. In some of them it is allowed to smoke inside and they are marked.
When doing some sightseeing, don't go in your beach dress. Short trousers and shirts are not the best way of dressing when you would like to visit a historic church or monuments. And in restaurants you will gain a smile when you wear sandals with white socks. But the most important point is that thieves directly identify you as a tourist. Therefore, it is better not to use a handbag while strolling. The best way to protect you from bandits is just to take a Spanish newspaper in your hands and enjoy Barcelona!

September 10, 2008

World Music Festival coming to Barcelona!

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The 13th edition of the World Music Festival will take place in Barcelona. The city's Auditorium will welcome many artists, mainly coming from Africa this year. The organizers are expecting a high-class intercultural dialogue and have been inviting many interesting show and music acts. From October 3 to October 17 a great musical variety will be presented. No other event than the World Music Festival demonstrates such a great hospitality.
Staying at Barcelona hotels or Barcelona apartments during October, you shouldn't miss this cultural Barcelona event. As the festival director pointed out, you will have the chance to listen to "real folk music from real people who have things to say and protest about".
Idir, a politival singer from Algeria, will open the Barcelona World Music Festival. There will also perform singers from Iran, Mali and all over Africa. Another highlight will be the concert of Gnawa Crossroads (photo) at Barcelona´s CCCB on 12 October.
See you at the 13th World Music Festival!

Sport in Barcelona

1555893266_3334947dc8_m.jpgDuring your holiday in Barcelona you would like to do some sports? Nothing easier than that, because Barcelona is a city with many sport clubs and public sport events are offered very often during the whole year.
To explore the city by bike is much easier than walking. There are many extended bikeways next to the streets, which makes the cycling tour to a secure event. Some bicycle rentals, of which some also offer guided tours, are for example "Bike Tours Barcelona S.L." and "Fat Tire Bike Tours".
For the ones of you who like to play golf during the holdays, that is also possible. Around Barcelona are two golf courses: "Campo de Golf del Prat" which is approximately 15 kilometers southern from Barcelona and "Campo de Golf de Sitges" which is circa 40 kilometers away from Barcelona.
As the metropolitan area of Barcelona has 40 kilometers of coastlines and three fourths of them are beaches, is it recommendable to have a nice day there with swimming and sunbathing. Water sports are often offered at the coast, like sailing and diving. To stay close to the beach, you could rent a Barcelona apartment in La Barceloneta.
Regardless of what you would like to venture in Barcelona, you can always have a comfortable Barcelona accommodation and therefore enjoy your holiday!

September 9, 2008

La Ribera and Parc de la Ciutadella

parc de la citudella.jpgThe district "La Ribera" was occupied by merchants and workmen in the Middle Ages. This character of the district is still alive; there are narrow archways, small lanes and houses. In the sixties, they began to restore this district and it became a nice place with little but fancy shops, studios of designers and also beautiful restaurants and bars. But anyway, the authentic ambiance of the historic roots is still given.
Next to that, the "Museu Picasso", which is the best visited museum of Barcelona, is also situated in this area. To stay close to this beautiful district, you can rent a Barcelona apartment in Borne. If you choose to spend your holiday in this area, a must-see is the "Parc de la Ciutadella". In the past, it was the place where the citadel of Barcelona (built 1715) was situated. In 1888, the square was used for the world exhibition. This happening was the beginning for the new and modern way of living in Barcelona. Nowadays, the park is a very beautiful place to relax, to take a walk or to visit one of the museums, which are also located in the park. The zoo of Barcelona "Parc Zoològic" is also located in the park as well as the parliament of Catalonia. As you can see, it is really worthy to spend holidays in Barcelona!

Andalusia in Barcelona

Tapas.jpgIf you are spending your holidays in Barcelona, you have now the great possibility to know more about Andalusia and especially its delicacies without travelling there. Until 14th September 2008 you can visit the exhibition "El perfume de Andalucía" (The perfume of Andalusia). The entry is free. There are several information desks where you can inform yourself about the culture, travel to Andalusia and try the typical food of this region. Furthermore, there is a program that offers different activities like flamenco shows. If you plan to travel now to Barcelona, you will find a lot of special last minute offers. One nice Barcelona apartment is the Bailen Studio Apartment in the district Eixample Dreta which accommodates up to 3 persons. If you book it now, you will receive 10% discount on this modern apartment.

Place: Mirador del Port Vell
Address: C Reina Cristina, 1 (Ciutat Vella)
Opening hours: 11h-23h (daily)

September 5, 2008

Welcome to Barcelona! Sightseeing spots

Barcelona, one of the top city spots in Europe and a famous tourist destination all around the year, has many a lot to offer to visitors. Spending Barcelona holidays sightseeing will be one of the main things to do to get to know the city and its rich cultural, historic and architectural heritage. From A as Arc Triomf to Z for the Zoo of Barcelona you will have plenty of choices to discover the Catalonian capital. From the heart of the city, Plaza Catalunya, you can stroll around Barcelona´s center with the Gothic quarter and the famous Ramblas. Gaudi´s artworks throughout the city, including Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell and La Pedrera, are another "must visit".
After visiting the city center holiday makers can relax on the Barcelona beaches or enjoy best cuisine in one of the restaurants at Port Vell. On the evenings from Thursday to Sunday it is worth to go to Montjuic near Plaza Espanya to see the Magic Fountain - a unique light, music and water spectacle.
Barcelona is an amazing city where you probably only see your Barcelona accommodation for sleeping a few hours as there is so much to discover.
Traveling with children it might be a perfekt choice to choose a Barcelona apartment for the stay offering privacy, calmness and a Barcelona home that will never be forgotten.
Come to Barcelona and enjoy the Catalan hospitality in a breathtaking beautiful city!

September 4, 2008

A day trip to Barcelona Zoo

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If you are on holidays in Barcelona with your family, you should visit the Barcelona Zoo. It is one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe. In the zoo there are mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles including many exotic species. During a visit in Barcelona Zoo, every member of the family will enjoy it, as there are so many offers and services. The whole family can watch the show of dolphins and all other animals in the zoo. If you are hungry, you can either go to one of the restaurants or having a picnic in one of the picnic zones. Riding on ponies is offered for the children at the weekends and during the holidays. Furthermore there are games especially for children. In order to know the zoo a bit better and to see all its areas, you can take the small train and get around. As there are many Barcelona hotels, you will find a good one that is close to the zoo. The Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona is a good choice and is very close to the nice Parc de la Ciutadella as well. If you like to have more privacy, there are also a lot of Barcelona apartments nearby.

International Jazz Festival in Barcelona

Spending Barcelona holidays in October or November? Then Jazz lovers will never forget the Catalonian capital, Barcelona, holding the "Festival Internacional de Jazz de Barcelona" between October 23 and November 29 this year.

The programme is made up with big names and glamourous newcomers of the world of Jazz. Concerts will take place in the famous and architectural renowned Palau de la Musica Catalana amongst other venues.
By now, 39 times the festival organizers have impressed visitors of the festival and have been inviting top Jazz stars.

Don´t miss that magic moments and reserve your Barcelona accommodation right away!

www.barcelonajazzfestival.com

September 2, 2008

080 Barcelona Fashion

barcelona_fashion_080.jpgFor the second time Barcelona will hold the 080 Barcelona Fashion presenting design works of about thirty independent designers. The best trends for next spring and summer will be shown on the grounds of Fira Barcelona on Montjuic from the 3rd to the 5th of September 2008. The event will include fashion parades in a showroom and special talks and an exhibition dedicated to Miriam Ocáriz.

Barcelona is not only the shopping paradise and city of fashion trends of Spain, Catalunya, but also a tourist destination with outstanding popularity.
That is why many people from all over the world choose Barcelona to spend holidays or enjoy a pleasant business trip to Barcelona. A reliable partner for finding a Barcelona accommodation that suits the personal needs best whether you are a visitor, an artist, a designer, a model or a technician taking part in the event, is BarcelonaPoint.com.

Welcome to 080 Barcelona Fashion!

Fira Barcelona - Palau Metal•lúrgia (Av Reina Maria Cristina 1, Sants-Montjuic)

September 1, 2008

Big Barcelona Festival: La Mercè 2008

Those spending Barcelona holidays at the end of September should not miss to discover Catalan culture at the biggest "fiesta" of the city, La Mercè 2008.
Barcelona will be celebrating around the 24th of September in honor of Mercè, the patron saint of the city. More than 500 different cultural, music and dancing acts will be expected.
Wheter your Barcelona accommodation is in the heart of the city or a bit more outside - from 24th of September you will be able to experience Barcelona even more active than on normal days. All day long, from family friendly activities up to long night concerts for all music tastes throughout the city you are welcome to celebrate together with the locals!
Some of the highlights will be: the performance of the "castellers" building high human towers of up to 9 floors and the "correfoc". This is a parade where Barcelona will be inflamed when fire-breathing dragons and devils will be dancing around the streets to the noise of fireworks and drums.