Salute Oper und Flamenco

Vacationers can to honour the passionate and powerful art forms of opera and flamenco by attending a show in Barcelona this year.

Opera and Flamenco combines the disciplines of opera singing, dancing and Spanish gypsy music to memorable effect.

The show offers the most popular songs of flamenco and Spanish Zarzuela, and now in its fourth year, has already been seen by more than 80000 people.

The visitors will stay in cheap hotels in Barcelona, the show at the Teatre polio Rama on La Rambla to 29 June.

Travelers are more interested in the mystery and intrigue of history as the vitality of the present might be interested in visiting a museum exhibition entitled tomb of ancient Egypt.

This display that is open in the Fundacio Arqueologica Clos until the end of September, includes 30 chambers grave, a mummy and a number of Egyptian burial objects.

Arid Barcelona forced to import water

Barcelona is in the unprecedented step of importing water by sea to prevent a water crisis caused by extreme drought. The emergency measure, starting next month, clearly shows how climate change is one of Europe's most developed cities - a metropolis known for its efficient infrastructure.

The Catalan Water Agency has 10 tankers chartered to ship water to Spain's second city of Marseille in France, from the Catalan port of Tarragona, and desalination plants near Almeria in Spain the parched south. Some water may be transported by rail. Water is required for at least six months or until the resumption of normal rainfall in the region ends acute water shortage.

The state of emergency has already prompted officials in Barcelona to disable local wells and showers on the beach, ornamental lakes and large drain swimming pools, a hosepipe ban backed by fines, and patch up leaky pipes. If the drought continues this summer, city authorities are faced with the unpopular option of water rationing. There are plans to distribute imported water at reduced pressure so that the taps will trickle rather than gush. Spain has suffered from water shortages to 18 months, years, only one third of their average rainfall. The drought is of the view that the most acute since the 1940s. Dams nationwide are less than half capacity, while in Catalonia are almost a fifth full.

The need for action has sparked discord between the Catalonia regional government, led by Jose Montilla, and Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero the government in Madrid. Both men are Socialists, but differ greatly on the best solution.

Mr Montilla favours the transfer of water from the River Segre, the increases in the Pyrenees and flows into the mighty Ebro. But Mr Zapatero has vetoed this plan the creation of wider social and environmental problems for the regions that are part of the Ebro basin.

Even Mr Montilla acknowledges that "with water from the source of a river is not the best solution". But he insisted this week: "The choice of Segre remains open if no other real alternatives to present solutions for the 5.5 million people affected by drought."

No easy solution is at hand. Agricultural irrigation strenuously defended its rights and crops are largely impregnated with recycled or "grey" water unfit for drinking. Catalan farmers complain that they - and the Ebro Delta ecosystem - will suffer if water is north to Barcelona: they will charge dear, valuable supplies. Meanwhile, engineers redigging old wells, filter polluted aquifers, drilling of new wells around Tarragona and hectic for pipes for the "temporary" transfers.

For the long term, in recognition that climate change makes Spain's increasingly scarce water, Mr Zapatero favours desalination. Spain has more than 950 plants produce enough water for 10 million people. Two more are under construction near Barcelona, but not be ready until 2009.

In Andalusia this week, but the worst rains for 10 years devastated beach, burst sewers and kept boats in the harbour.

Beach vacation in Spain

According to the data, along with the departure to Spain and other popular country, seaside resorts were among the most popular destinations for recreation. A poll showed that a fifth of all Britons will be pleased to hold long-awaited vacation by the sea, while for 18.3% of Europeans holiday in Spain - the best kind of leisure activity.

Studies show that about 68% of tourists from Britain are paying relaxation most of the day, while more than half of those surveyed said that sunbathing they give first place. Another, no less important and extremely popular factor for 56% of vacationers is the possibility of sightseeing Spain, the minimum needed for comfort half of all British tourists.

1/3 holidaymakers to the list of "paradise rest" and added another kitchen. And only 1 / 5 of all tourists admitted that go on holiday in search of adventure, while 14.4% foreign tourists on vacation looking for new sensations that can turn round all their life.

Foreign tourists spent in Spain, 2.9 billion euros

The Consulate General of Spain in Moscow in March 2008, issued 14 099 visas, which exceeded the figure for the same period last year to 17.33%. During January and February Spain took 6.2 million tourists that at 3,9% more than the same months of 2007. The Consulate General of Spain in Moscow in March 2008, issued 14 099 visas, which exceeded the figure for the same period last year to 17.33%.

According to forecasts, Andalusia is preparing to take this year to 45.8% of Russian tourists more than in 2007. According to the RATA-news, in 2007 45 890 tourists from Russia stayed in hotels of Andalusia. Association congress centers in Spain in 2007 held 6.6 thousand meetings (an increase of 9.1%), the last in-4.5 million people. Consumption of foreign tourists visiting Spain in February 2008, amounted to 2.9 billion euros. According to the forecasts of specialists, in 2008 growth of business tourism in Spain amount to 8%.

Snails Gastronomy Festival in Spain

Province of Lerida, Spain 23-25 May. There are snails love not only Frenchmen, and 12 000 residents of Catalan province of Lleida is proved. Each May all lovers of local delicacies gather in a beautiful place in nature Camps Elisis Gardens. This event is taking place already in 25 - y times, a local gourmet Manolo Kalpe founded it in 1979. In Leride three days fiesta leaves 12 tons of exotic shellfish pripravlyaemyh for delicious spicy sauces. In addition, you can try the snails and many other dishes of Catalan cuisine, try the Spanish drinks, followed by dancing. And make sure you put their best clothes, because not every day you go to the Festival of snails. Some companies at the festival closed to outsiders, so that the head of a local friend to get one of those VIP-parties (peñas). If you are not lucky – there are wide range of restaurants offering no less tasty cooked snails.

Clickair start selling tickets to Barcelona - Moscow

The Spanish budget airline Clickair opened the sale of tickets for summer flights from Barcelona to Moscow. The company intends to start flights from April 27, twice a week by plane Airbus A320. Flight from Barcelona hotels on Tuesdays and Fridays at 23.40, arrival in Moscow at 5.55.

Reverse flight on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 6.40 and arriving in Barcelona at 9.00. Since May 30, is scheduled to add flights from Barcelona hotels on Wednesdays and Saturdays, from Moscow - on Thursdays and Sundays. Tickets to one side is 116 euros, round trip back - 239 euros.

Clickair - a subsidiary of Spanish national airline carrier Iberia. Its fleet consists of aircraft Airbus A320. It began flights in autumn 2006, but now faces some problems due to high competition of budget carriers in Spain. At several European lines offer fares at 20 euros, taking into account the charges. Clickair began to fly to Moscow in June 2007. Originally performed daily flights, but later the frequency was reduced to four per week. The flights were stopped for the winter from October 28.

The most stylish city - Forbes version

Forbes Magazine ranking of the most stylish cities in the world. When its design takes into account not only the appearance of mega-cities, but also the richness of their activity and business and cultural life, the beauty of homes and parks, contribution to science and culture, friendly residents, the level of pollution, and even climate, weather and quality management of local authorities.

The first took place in the ranking of London, the only shortcomings which were found "inadequate security" and "excessive cost". The second place was Paris, at the third - Sydney. Fourth place was awarded to New York, won the fifth Rome. Next in the ranking followed by Barcelona, Melbourne, Berlin, Amsterdam and Madrid, says RBC.

Russian tourists prefer Catalonia and the Canary Islands

According to Goskomstat Russia, in 2007 Russian tourists carried more than nine million trips abroad. This figure exceeds the previous year. The second year running one of the most popular areas among Russian travelers remains Spain.

Spain ranks third among the areas of beach tourism and sixth in the overall ranking of preferences of our compatriots. The number of inhabitants of Russia, visiting Spain, growing steadily: in 2005 if growth in the number of Russian tourists amounted to 297 thousand people, then in 2006 - 346 thousand people, and in 2007 - 400 thousand.

Regarding the most popular destinations in Spain, the winter of 2008, most Russians opted for Catalonia (36.1%), Canary Islands (25.9%), Madrid (12.1%) and Andalusia (8.1%), the department Tourism Embassy of Spain in Moscow.

Travelodge hotel will open 100

After the opening two hotels in Spain - in Madrid and Barcelona hotels - British company Travelodge announced its intention to build in this country 100 midrange hotel by 2020. Travelodge Hotels will appear in all major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona hotels and Valencia and then in other cities, suburbs and airport zones.
Each hotel will be calculated at 80-100 rooms. The cost of accommodation when booking via the Internet range from 20 euros per night. According to network managers, development of budget hotels in Spain may be promising, given that Spaniards themselves actively travelling within the country, in addition, Spain is popular among foreign tourists

The best restaurant in the world once again recognized Spanish Bulli

The best restaurant in the world third consecutive year, recognized Spanish Bulli in Catalonia, owned by famous chef Ferranu Adria, said on Tuesday Mundo newspaper, citing the results of annual competition prestigious British magazine Restaurant. "Bulli, located in the village of Roses (north-east Spain), was able to retain first place among the world fifty best restaurants participating in the competition," - writes the newspaper.

Chief "Bulli" Ferran Adria, called colleagues "kitchen alchemist", famous for "their bold culinary experiments," recalls Mundo. "Bulli" works only six months of the year, offering customers only lunches. The cost of such a dinner, without alcohol, an average of 180 euros, however, the record book is made for several months. The restaurant is unprofitable in mind the high cost prepare dishes. Revenues restaurant owner, according to the Spanish press, had his hotel and restaurant Hacienda Benazuza, several culinary schools, culinary publication of books and lectures.

Second place at a British restaurant has received The Fat Duck, located west of London, and the third - Parisian Pierre Gagnaire. The leadership in the world for the restaurants' high cuisine "is still France, in second place - the U.S., on the third - Spain, the newspaper reported.

Restaurant Magazine seventh consecutive year holds a competition for best restaurant world on the basis of 700 voting-known chefs and journalists from around the world, members of the international culinary arts academy Nepresso.

Barcelona is calling on the Buy Catalunya

From 2 to 6 June in the Catalan capital will be a large-scale international meeting of professionals in tourist business - the second workshop Buy Catalunya 2008. The first forum was held at a similar level in 2006, then was attended by some 150 tour operators from 16 European countries. Topics varied, covering all 17 species of tourist proposed Catalonia, from beach tourism and to exclusive and religious tourism. Applicants are invited to foreign tour operators who are interested in cooperation with Catalonia. Coordination with organizational matters entrusted to the Tourism Council of Catalonia, accredited in different European countries.

Official Carrier events - Clickair. As general sponsor serves world-famous producer of wine - the company Miguel Torres, S.A.

Spanish flights reinstated at Norwich

Consumers in East Anglia will soon be able to take advantage of new flights between Norwich and Spain.

The routes for tourists' hot spots', such as Alicante were controversially axed by Flybe in July 2007. However, Norwich evening news reports that the service should be reintroduced by LTE International Airways at the end of this year.

The budget airline will also offer flights from Norwich in Palma da Mallorca and Barcelona hotels for the first time.

Commenting on this event, Richard Jenner in Norwich International Airport said that "great news".

"They will go there year round," he said.

"Norwich is the only UK airport they will be flying from them and they want to be airlines to Norwich, when it comes to return to Spain."

Mr. Jenner added that the Barcelona hotels flight will be particularly useful for those who want to travel to Costa Brave and Costa Dorada.

Improving accessibility, is also likely to be welcomed by those who are looking to Spain for potential investment property.

Spain has recently been identified as the most popular with British property buyers in the market place in the sun magazine.

BARCELONA, 23 April (Champions League)

Cristiano Ronaldo May, unusual, but Manchester United are wasteful in the eyes of a place in the Champions League final.
The wing player Portugal missed a penalty after only three minutes at the Nou Camp and the chance to the side a valuable away goal.

Rafael Marquez shows his relief after Ronaldo's miss.
United were rarely as an attacking force after that but they go into the second leg at Old Trafford next Tuesday with quiet confidence.
Despite the absence of Nemanja Vidic, who rushed to the hospital on Tuesday evening with a stomach complaint, they defended resolutely and kept a clean sheet.
Ronaldo with 38 goals to his credit remained frustrated when Gabriel Milito treated within the penalty area in the second minute of the game.
Swiss referee Massimo Busacca had no hesitation on the point winkenden away protests from Barcelona.
Ronaldo strengthened to the penalty - only to see its efforts on the stand pipes.
He was left holding his head in his hands after missing a golden opportunity to give United a precious away goal.
Sir Alex Ferguson's side struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with Barcelona with the majority of possession.
Lionel Messi picked from Samuel Eto'o in the 13th Minute only for Paul Scholes - on his 100th Champions League appearance - to a crucial interception.
Ronaldo did not seem to suffer from a lack of confidence, but after blundering from the spot - and still players.
Barcelona pressed forward again in the 21st Minute and Rafael Marquez got his clear marker but his head is not trouble goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, back in the side bar after an injury.
Then Yaya Toure showed good skills for the home side and sent a good cross in the area of removed by Van der Sar.
Ronaldo felt he had another penalty in the 30th Minute when he bundled over by Marquez after Xavi had carelessly lost possession.
However, referee Busacca would have none of it and allowed play to continue so that the United wing player frustrated.
Barca were dictating the pace at this stage and Eto'o rattled in a shot after 34 minutes but Wes Brown a block of crucial importance.
Brown was brokerage Rio Ferdinand in the heart of the defence in the absence of Vidic with the return of Owen Hargreaves, on the right rear.
Brown showed little evidence that the knock forced him to train away from the main group last night.
Barcelona were spraying the ball around well, however, and won a free-kick in the 38th Minute.
But Deco got little power in his efforts and Van der Sar a comfortable save.
United hit back and was booked in the 44th Marquez Minute after tripping Ronaldo, when he tried to rise again.
Ronaldo dusted itself down, but sent his effort from an acute angle wide of the post-war period.
Barcelona were quickly on the offensive at the beginning of the second half and Messi saw his effort blocked in the 47th Minute, before Van der Sar did well to tip over Gianluca Zambrotta's long-range shot.
Eto'o skipped away from Ferdinand and tried to pick out Messi - but Michael Carrick was perfectly positioned and clearance.
Eto'o got clear in the 52nd Minute, but sent his effort into the side netting before Deco tested Van der Sar three minutes later with a low drive.
The Dutch goalkeeper was equal to Xavi's effort from 20 metres before Messi - who had only recently returned from injury - has been replaced by Bojan Krkic in the 63rd Minute.
Bojan was no less a threat than the Argentinians, scored the winning goal in the quarter-finals-final first leg against Schalke.
United were finding it difficult to any attacks, Ronaldo, Rooney and Carlos Tevez fairly isolated front.
Former Arsenal favourite Thierry Henry was in the action after 77 minutes with Deco coming off.
Henry quickly the tempo of the game and rattled in a shot after 83 minutes, Van der Sar blow away.
The United goalkeeper then got his body behind a Henry free-kick as United stayed for a creditable draw.

Hotel Ritz, Barcelona

From the day it opened in 1919, the Hotel Ritz was by far Barcelona's smartest, and most expensive, choice; the kings of Spain and Italy, and the president of the French Republic, all stayed here during the early years.

The very name, the Ritz, conjures up up-market aspirations. From the day it opened in 1919, the Hotel Ritz was by far Barcelona's smartest, and most expensive, choice; the kings of Spain and Italy, and the president of the French Republic, all stayed here during the early years.

Not that it's been all plain sailing. A few days after the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936, the Ritz was taken over by the trade unions and turned into the "Gastronomic Hotel No.1". A picture of Lenin was hung in the hall and "collective dining rooms" were established. A few years later, guests included the likes of Heinrich Himmler and Marshal Pétain. However, after the Second World War, it was back to business as usual with a return of the princes, grand duchesses, kings, archdukes and princesses, who chose the Ritz for their balls and grand receptions. The least conventional visitor to date has been Salvador Dali, who ordered a horse to be brought up to his suite, either stuffed or dissected, according to which story you believe.

Location, location, location

The Hotel Ritz is at Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes 668 08010, Barcelona (00 34 93 318 5200, www.ritzbcn.com).

The Ritz is on the wide and leafy Gran Via, just off the Passeig de Gracia, about 10 minutes' walk from the central Plaza de Catalunya.

Time to international airport: It's a half-hour taxi ride and costs €25-€30 (£16-£19).

Are you lying comfortably?

Expense and exclusiveness are the hallmarks of this hotel, rather than attention to detail. The doors don't quite fit perfectly and some of the fittings look as though they haven't been changed in 80 years. Yet, this is all part of the charm. When you see the pink marble floors of the eccentrically shaped bathroom you won't care if the showerhead is slightly wonky.

Keeping in touch: the telephone cable can connect to your computer, but may not be able to transmit a message. The Ritz was not built for the internet.

The bottom line

Doubles start from €385.85 (£243.50). If you book in the UK through The Leading Hotels of the World (00 800 2888 8882, www.lhw.com) you might get a better rate.

I'm not paying that: the Ramblas Hotel, La Rambla 33 (00 34 93 301 57 00), has doubles from €154.08 (£97.25).

Barcelona Media executives have the BM center of the Brazilian Minister of Culture, the singer Gilberto Gil, gave a concert in Barcelona on Saturday 12 April.

The BM executives said the model of the technological center of Brazilian politicians and artists, in addition to the various activities and the research being carried out in the center of the units and laboratories. The meeting was organized with the aim of promoting future cooperation between BM and the Brazilian government and other institutions in the country.

The meeting with the ministers was held on the occasion of the artist's visit to Barcelona; BM among executives who took part in the event were Anna Pàmies, CEO of BM, Jordi Pardo, director of the Culture-BM's Lab, and María Eugenia Fuenmayor, director of the BM projects with public support.

Pink hotel Hesperia

Hotel brand Hesperia Hotels has announced the launch of the "pink room". These numbers are designed specifically for women. Pink was chosen because it is a symbol of the fight against breast cancer. One euro of each room will go to Spanish Association in the fight against breast cancer. In "pink rooms " guests will have gown, a women's magazine, towels and sheets from 100% cotton, in the full-length mirror and slippers. In the mini-bar are cereals, yogurt, and cooling mask for the eyes. In the bathroom will fen, scales and a wide range of self-care. These rooms will appear in all four-star urban Hesperia hotels, and in most five-star ones. The price will not differ from the price of a standard room.

Spain is popular among lonely boys

According to the data, it is on vacation in Spain strives constantly increasing number of young boys and teenagers. According to the Tourist Association of Student Youth, the top ten of youth recreation headed by Spain, China, Peru, Brazil and Australia. No less popular leisure outside the home France, Italy, Germany and Greece. The popularity of Spain, the report confirms the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, under which the number of tourists visited Spain in February 2008, increased by 6.5% compared with last year.

Shortly Spain launches an abortion museum

Spanish Director of Life Foundation Manuel Cruz shared with reporters plans for the opening of the abortion museum, "as a training tool for young people, especially university students and school children, because only a few know about abortion." "Young viewers will see tools that abortions occur, the types of abortion, describe the scene of the abortion argument, and women themselves who committed abortions," he said. According to Cruz, socially and morally abortion brings great harm to thousands Spanish women suffering alone. "Murder has long been such a profitable business, the income from which is one of Spain more than $ 81 million."

“Unfortunately, the harsh reality of the demonstration had not been successful in stopping this evil called abortion. Because in a society is very popular "moral relativism" and "radial" feminism, it is difficult to be a constructive, "added Manuel Cruz.

In Barcelona opened pleasant to the touch hotel

In Barcelona opened boutique hotel called Murmuri, decorated entirely pleasant to the touch fabrics - silk, velvet, satin lined and light tones. The original idea belongs to the designer Hoppenu Kelley, who was decorated four Bekhemov mansion in Beverly Hills. Guests are offered rooms of categories classic, superior, privilege and suites. The hotel is also located solarium, a hall for meetings, laundry, Asian cuisine restaurant and bar, said Times.

Murmuri Barcelona hotel is at the heart of the city - on the main tourist street Rambla de Catalunya. The hotel provides discounts for the occupants, reserving three or more nights.

Academic history has established the names of executed with Goya paintings

Spanish researcher has established names popular uprising in Madrid, Napoleonic troops shot and buried in a mass grave at the cemetery in the city centre Barcelona hotels, said on Sunday Pais newspaper. Academic history, "Luis Miguel Aparici Laporta established names ten-rebel heroes, Frenchman shot at dawn on May 3, 1808 and buried in Madrid on Gore Prince Pio" - tells the publication. According to Pais, it is the massacre of patriots was captured in 1814 the great Spanish painter Francisco Goya paintings by "shootings on May 3, 1808", but "the names of the heroes buried in a mass grave, still remain unknown."

"Now the Metropolitan Mayor's Office will be able to perpetuate the burial slabs names of the victims, who was able to find academician, studying during the six urban archive" - wrote Pais. "The victims have a military, but most - Madrid artisans and merchants, organized uprising in the capital on May 2, 1808, which, although it was crushed, the beginning of the national liberation war against the Spanish people Napoleonic invaders" - The publication. Napoleon invaded Spain in 1808, overthrew the Barcelona hotels dynasty of Spanish Bourbons to the throne was erected and his brother Joseph Bonaparte. The war against the invaders, in which the fundamental role played by the Spanish "guerrilleros" has continued to expel French troops in 1814. This year there is widespread in Spain 200 - anniversary of popular uprising: in Madrid opened several exhibitions on the jubilee.

A luxury golf clubs Spain got serious competitor in the market of sports tourism

After the Turkey announced its intention to open another 100 golf courses, the tourism business of Spain felt the emergence of a serious competitor. Today Spaniards can boast the presence of more than 350 sites and stunning golf courses. In 2006, only one resort Costa del Sol has brought the country some 900 million euros. Of course, that Turkey still have to make great efforts to become a leader in this sector, the tourism market. Both countries are justifiably proud favorably warm climate, are about the same height above sea level and not giving way to one another in natural beauty and richness of culture.

Spain 'very satisfied' with Odyssey treasure ruling

The statement of the Ministry of Culture has welcomed the decision by a Florida judge to order American treasure hunters Spain to tell the exact location of the Atlantic Ocean ship site, where gold and silver coins worth more than € 350 million Euro was discovered in May last year.

Odyssey Marine Exploration Company is currently in the light of two weeks to provide the full list of artifacts recovered, and, moreover, have been forced to allow the Spanish government inspectors.

Spain seeks to confirm whether the treasure was found in Spanish hotels waters, or if it comes from a shipwrecked Spanish galleon, in a case that he would seek its return.

Despite this, the Odyssey Marine insists that the wreck was found in international Barcelona hotels waters, but did not wish to confirm the location, fearing that any remaining treasure can be poached by their rivals.

New route in Spain - "Dear Apostle James"

By the beginning of the summer season in Catalonia will open a new tourist route "Dear Apostle James" or "Santiago way" - that is what is called St. James Spaniards. The total length of route is 389 km. It will begin from the Costa Brava coast: the point of departure would monastery Sant Pere de Rodes, will run through the Catalan shrine - Monastery of Montserrat and Alkarras and culminate in the town, located near the border with Aragon. The entire path can be done in a few days by bicycle or on foot.

History ways rooted in the year 836, when, in the heart of Galicia hermit Payo tomb discovered the apostle James the Elder, son of Zebedee, which according to legend, christened residents of the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula. By the tomb of St. rushed pilgrims from all over the world. They wanted to go stellar road, said Mlechnym through, and get otpuschenie sins. The rumour states that it is well received by Emperor Charlemagne, who first took the path of the Apostle James. Pilgrims came from Sweden, Poland, the Netherlands, Ireland, Britain,

Turkey and other countries, resulting in a host of ways of branches. Pilgrims converge in France, where roads were united in Galicia in the city of Santiago de Compostela.

The road, shrouded in legends of the Middle Ages, has gained wide popularity in the late XX century thanks to the novel "The Diary of magician" Portuguese writer Paulo Coelho. The new route is one of the ways of branches, held on the territory of Catalonia. We offer tourists - hotels, eating, drinking water and the opportunity to use mobile phones

Goya war collection goes on show at Prado

As part of a series of events organized this year to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Spanish War of Independence, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofía will be opening the 'Goya in Times of War' collection at the Prado museum in Madrid Barcelona hotels.

The collection of 200 works completed by the disabled artist after 1795 following his recovery from a life-threatening illness, includes the recently-restored 'May 2nd 1808' and 'May 3rd 1808' (on photo).

Sixty of the ninety paintings on show are on loan from numerous private collections and Barcelona hotels public institutions from all over the world. Thirteen paintings have never been presented before in Spain and four have not been exhibited for thirty years.

This collection by the famous Aragonese artist depicts one of the most changeful periods in Spanish history.

Majestic Hotel receives the highest star status

Hotel Majestic in Barcelona, received the maximum rating from the General Council on Tourism - Grand Luxe 5 stars. The Barcelona hotel is located in one of the most prestigious places of Barcelona - on the Paseo de Gracia. The new rating was the recognition of conformity of hotel all standards developed by the Tourism Board of Catalan. Permanent training, a high level of comfort, spacious rooms and a wide range of services - these are just a few of the factors that are taken into account when reviewing the status of star hotel.

The Rezidor Hotel Group in 2009 will open the Radisson SAS Hotel, Madrid Prado

The Rezidor Hotel Group hopes to settle permanently in Madrid, the capital of Spain. By the end of 2009, Radisson SAS Hotel will open 54-appartment hotel Madrid Prado. And in the period from 2007 to 2009 Rezidor plans to open a total of 20,000 new rooms. Radisson SAS Hotel, located in Madrid Prado already constructed building, which, of course, will be converted.

Near the Barcelona hotel is the famous Prado Museum, as well as a new, modern art center CaixaForum. Interior design of all 54 rooms, including 6 luxury ones in the hotel as well as facilities for public use, will be developed and Sandra Tarruell and Isabel Lopez - the best Spanish designers who worked on processing Hotel Omm in Barcelona. Certainly, in this hotel will be a restaurant, a fitness center and SPA, as well as a lot more interesting facilities.

Spain: relaxing only tourists

As correspondent found IS “BANKO”, the Spanish market are met spring with optimism: they expect sales growth in the area of 20-30%. Here's how this comment, the Director-General VKO Travel Golovlenkova Natalia: "The past few years have increased the demand for Spain, and we are confident that this trend will continue. Expectations are reinforced, in particular, the earlier sales: we have already implemented in 3.5 times more rounds than the same period last year. "

"In line with the forecasts of demand and expand air service" - believes the head of the Spanish department EQUITY TOUR Alevtina Filosofova. The same values - 20-30% - experts estimate the rise of air tickets price.

"If last year's ticket to Barcelona was worth 280 euros, but now - 340 euros - illustrates the situation commercial director of" Time "tour Ogurtsova Nelya. -- But the market is unlikely to be affected because the price rises in all directions. "Hoteliers were modest: their price lists they crawled by an average of 5-10%. "Furthermore, in the country at prices climbed 4.2% on domestic services" - adds PR Director TEZ TOUR Makarkova Marina.

Electronic tour guide conducts tours on cultural sightseeings of Barcelona

Barcelona Casanova hotel provided a new opportunity for travelers who prefer to self-examine capital of Catalonia. Guests of hotel offered a chance to use the digital guide. Using GPS technology tourists can get acquainted with the major cultural attractions, as well as restaurants, museums, shops Barcelona. Portable iTour contains city maps and photographs. User can put three digital work program guide: Tour leading tourist on the main route free navigation or input device names in the street. Price of electronic guide is 5 euros for 12 hours.

Congressional tourism

According to the ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association) in 2006, Spain took fifth place in the world as a place to hold business and international meetings. Possibilities for business activities in the country have nearly 166 cities where there are about 200 different specialized business centers in 750 halls which can accommodate over 500 thousand delegates. There are more than 40 major congress centers, 36 organizations specializing in business tourism, and about a thousand categories 3-5 star hotels with business centers that are congressional opportunities and fund of deployment of 250 thousand rooms. The largest number of events taking place in Madrid and Barcelona hotels - nearly 25% from important meetings, as it can be the most extensive congresses and conventions.

Cities such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Sevilla and Valencia can take up to 5 thousand delegates. Smaller activities often take place in Zaragoza, Bilbao, Alicante hotels, Murcia and many other cities. During last year, in Spain was held about 18 thousand meetings, which was attended by more than 3 million people. 670 thousand of them were foreign delegates.

Guests of Casanova Hotel in Barcelona take with them to the memory of pebbles or crystals

Casanova Hotel in Barcelona added another gem to its precious crown.

It became a spa salon Stone Spa, which offers guests taking advantage of the latest technologies in this field. This is the first salon in Barcelona, which holds procedures both indoor and outdoor, using the healing properties of the land, river stones and herbs.

Salon presents the best traditions of healing, collected from around the world. Guests are invited to massage, stone therapy, whirlpools, clay masks and "golden" wrapping. At the end of each procedures patient is gifted pebbles or crystals in the memory of the unforgettable vacations.

Catalonia remained without water

North-east and one of the richest regions of Spain, Catalonia since May will be forced to import water, which stocks almost at the end. According to the experts, the rainy season and snow melt in the Pyrenees over and replenish the reserves of water naturally is not expected - the level of water in the river basins of Catalan has for the year remained below normal. For at least a partial solution to the problem of autonomy Government intends to withdraw water from the River Segre - influx of giant Ebro - to Barcelona hotels. But to this idea opposes Aragon depended on Ebro river.

"We do not have one yet and the only alternative to a single decision - the head of the Spanish government Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero. - There is a lot of opportunity that will help us quickly respond to the crisis. In general we have to solve the problem of a more rational use of water resources and distribution at the water level today. This is what we need! " Expected that already from the beginning of May to the port of Barcelona hotels will arrive first of the 10 vessels with a cargo of fresh water from the south, from the factory to Almeria seawater desalination and from the south of France. This will cost the authorities in the region 22 million Euros. It is also planned that the water will also begin to arrive and by rail.

St. George's Day in Barcelona

In Barcelona hotels day St. George, to be observed on April 23, known as the "day of love". It has been estimated that an average of one day in St. George bought 4 million roses. St. George is considered the patron throughout Catalonia. Traditionally, all the women in this day centers give roses. In addition, St George's Day coincides with the day the book, it is in response to men taken in a solid book of gifted and brilliant book. At one only famous Las Ramblas boulevard appear hundreds of book shops, which sell for that day more than 400,000 books.

The history of the festival dates back to ancient legend, according to which brave George defending their beloved, fighted with a dragon. From monster’s blood, spilled to the ground, miraculously grew a red rose, which was presented to princess. At the town squares and Barcelona hotels all day is playing music, arranged spectacular battles and costumed marchers. Dancing and merriment smoothly channeled into cafes and restaurants that offer holiday menu to the very dawn.

Rally retro-cars "Barcelona-Sitges"

In this weekend in Barcelona was traditionally held rally of retro-cars. According to the old route 45 kilometers pass 70 cars produced before 1924. The route lays through the port of Barcelona hotels Aiguadolc to Sitges resort town. On Saturday, March 29 from the square at the foot of Mount Montzhuik cars went all over to Barcelona hotels. The same evening, traveling exhibition was held at the World Trade Center. And on Sunday, March 30, with Piazza San Jaime race started.

The audience was able for interested viewers to consider rarities closer at the area on the embankment Sizhdesa Frigate - dozens of vehicles from private collections in different countries.

For the use of drinking water for other purposes may be fine in Barcelona

In the north-east Spain, where Barcelona hotels is the second largest city in the country, is the largest in the last 50 years drought. The lack of rainfall has meant that the water level in reservoirs dropped to 20%. Therefore, there are restrictions on the use of potable water in Barcelona hotels.

Violators will be forced to pay large fines. Thus, a fine of between 30 euros to 3 euros will be subjected to thousands of people washing potable water to private cars, watering home gardens, or filling swimming pools with water. Wash machines are allowed only in special paragraphs at filling stations, where previously supplied purified waste water for drinking is not useful.

Monitor compliance with the restrictions and impose fines for violations will be municipal inspectors and the police of Barcelona hotels.

Goodbye to the monument to Primo de Rivera

The Barcelona City Council intends to withdraw this year the monument dedicated to Jose Antonio Primo de Rivera, located between the avenue and Josep Tarradellas de Sarria.

The project to remove this facility is now ready and only needed the approval of the commission that regulates the sculptural heritage of the city, according to the government team Eixample district in the past plenary.

This monument, consisting of a monolith and a frieze of floats, was erected in 1964 in honor of Jose Antonio Primo de Rivera although references Franco retreated long ago.

Late last year the Cortes Generales adopted the so-called Law of Historical Memory which provides, among other things, that "government, in the exercise of their powers, they take appropriate measures for the withdrawal of shields, pins, plates and other objects or mentions commemorative exaltation, personal or collective, the military uprising, the Civil War and the suppression of the Dictatorship ". Even then, the City expressed willingness to withdraw the sculptural Primo de Rivera during this mandate, which has not been done after waiting many months.

Barcelona will most polls prior to the tunnel next to the Sagrada Familia

For if anything, will most polls next to the Sagrada Familia prior to the drilling of the tunnel AVE. The Barcelona hotels City Council has commissioned five tastings conducting more in the stretch of street between the streets of Majorca Sardenya and Marina, making for indications of a report by the College of Geologists of Catalonia hotelsat the request of the board of the temple.

The polls will be the engineering commissioned by the Consistory Barcelona hotels and subsequently handed to Adif, manager of railway, which runs the site. Within 15 days will be ready.

The decision was made public yesterday said Ramon Garcia Bragado responsible for Urbanism, arguing that the consistory has full powers to order some soundings on the public highway while the tunnel AVE makes another Administration. "The outcome of the polls will be delivered to Adif and the College of Geologists," he explained.