http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/ Welcome to Been there. Your tips on the places you know - that you love, live in or have just visited - are what make this guide. http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33748
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It is modern and economic :)]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33748 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33717 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33717 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33710 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33710 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33706 The air-conditioned carriage trundled for hours across the baked earth of Castile as we ate tinned olives and shared icy bottles of Heineken.
Spain stretched out before us with the occasional puff of cloud emerging over the horizon. On arrival in the evening, the southern heat was still overwhelming. Our supper was a large plate of sliced tomatoes, garlic and olive oil with a chunk of crusty white bread. Sleepy after the journey, we held hands as we walked through jasmine scented streets in the dark.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33706 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33644 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33644 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33592 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33592 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33562 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33562 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33488 They still serve free tapas in the bars.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33488 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33373 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33373 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33308 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33308 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33303 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33303 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33255 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33255 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33187 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33187 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33176 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33176 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33024 It may seem excessive having a whole market dedicated to the nativity scene, but it is here where they do not do things by halves. The feria starts mid November until 23 December, and its 20-odd stands have a range of hand-crafted figurines, buildings, bridges, even a pyramid if you wish. Their nativity scene does not just include the stable and baby Jesus in a crib: it extends to the mountains, the farmlands, rivers, ponds and often proudly takes up a large table in Spanish families' houses.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/33024 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32897 I was wrong.
Before even stepping foot in the museum reception, you are already welcomed by faint flamenco rhythms and the sound 'pa-tah, pa-tah, pa-tah'. On the way to the museum (it's located on the 1st floor), you pass the light and airy patio where top-notch performances take place every evening. It was from here that the sounds of taconeo were being produced, although not in the form of a spectacular show on the centre stage, but basic steps from flamenco fledglings in the glass-paned dance studio. Visitors are encouraged to take a pew and observe, attempt to comprehend the complexity involved with mastering this art form, so that they are able to really appreciate how long it took the novice to perfect just one step when watching the professional show.
The museum itself is relatively new, and was inaugurated in 2006, born of the initiative of Cristina Hoyos, an acclaimed Sevillana flamenco dancer and actress, who has had a great influence on the rise of this artform. She wanted to bring flamenco dance closer to the world, to make people understand that it is one of the three fundamental pillars that support flamenco: the other two being cante (singing) and toque (guitar playing). Only last year, flamenco was declared as being of intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO, and Crisitina Hoyos and this wonderful museum may have had something to do with that! This is the only museum in the world, to date, to solely be dedicated to flamenco dance.
It provides a perfect introduction for any visitor to this magical world (or for Andalusian visitors to be reminded of its beginnings). Although I have attempted to describe the different flamenco palos in the past, I learnt from the tour that many stones were surely left unturned. The first floor of the Museo del Baile Flamenco uses a hands-on high tech approach to explaining the origins, (i.e., where castanets, hand or hip movements were from) and the variety of palos (flamenco styles), through videos and interactive screens, available in many languages (English, Spanish, German, French, Chinese and Japanese). Flamenco is an emotive dance, and depending on the palo different feelings can be portrayed: these videos perfectly demonstrate this with buzz words flashing up alongside. Furthermore, visitors can read more information, listen and watch using the touch-screen displays. This floor also describes how flamenco came into the spotlight, both in Spain and in the rest of the world. You can stand under the 'sound showers' and experience a sensory overload: hear flamenco melodies, see footage from years bygone - when flamenco started to take centre stage - and read famous flamenco quotes from flamenco-inspired works such as Carmen.
Another room puts flamenco costume in the spotlight, using interactive screens to explain where different items came from and how they were incorporated into dance. Last but not least on this floor, is a room consisting entirely of video walls, showing a performance choreographed specifically for the museum by Cristina Hoyos.
The museum also has an impressive photography and art collection, including images of Cristina Hoyo and her dance company, reminiscing of their ‘golden years’. Contemporary art works from up-and-coming artists, Spanish and international bring give the museum bring the art to the modern day. The exhibition rooms, as well as the well-preserved 18th century basement, are also used for percussion lessons and can be hired out for private events or conferences.
After discovering so much about the art of flamenco, it really made me appreciate the amazing live performance that same the evening. Four artists: two bailaores dancers (Lola Jaramillo and Jesús Herrera), a tocaor guitarist (Andrés Martínez) and a cantaor singer (Trini) took to the stage to bring to life all that was learnt from the museum. Here though, you could feel the flamenco and understand the emotions involved in the various palos. You could feel the vibration from the taconazos on the wooden tablao, and the swish of air as the train from Lola's traje swished inches past your face. Experience the joyfulness of bulerías and heart-felt wails of a saeta. I had seen many shows in free bars, the Bienal and touristy tabloas and I can guarantee that this show will remain present in my memory for much time to come. All of the performers stood out for me, but never had I seen a bailaora with such stage presence – maybe because I had never seen one master dancing with a mantoncillo and long-trained traje - it was astonishing.
This museum and show is a perfect introduction to flamenco for any visitor to Seville. It is located on C/ Manuel Rojas Marcos, 3, and is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Entrance to the museum is: Adults - €10, Students and over 65s - €8, and Sevillanos and children - €6.
Shows are
Sunday to Thursday (45 mins): Adults - €15, Students and over 65s - €12, and Sevillanos and children - €10
Friday and Saturday (60 mins): Adults - €23, Students and over 65s - €20, and Sevillanos and children - €12
Packages are available to enter the museum and see a show:
Sunday to Thursday: Adults - €20, Students and over 65s - €15, Sevillanos and children - €12
Friday and Saturday: Adults - €28, Students and over 65s - €25, Sevillanos and children - €20

For a guided tour of the museum in English, visit on Mondays or Thursdays at 5 p.m.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32897 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32839 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32839 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32800
1. FEDERAL
This cafe and restaurant with a rooftop terrace opened only a year ago and is already a big success. Fashionable, but cozy with friendly staff and nice food, cakes and sandwiches. A good choice at any time of the day – breakfast, brunch, cafe or dinner!
Brunch around 15 €
Area: Eixample
Address: C/ Parlament 39
website: www.federalcafe.es





2. PEZ VELA
Luxury Chiringuito (beach bar) at the beach of the 5 Star Hotel W. Best sea views to add a touch of glamour to your day.
Lunch Menu: 35 €
Area: Barceloneta
Address: Passeig del Mare Nostrum 19-21 (Playa del Hotel W)
web: www.grupotragaluz.com




3. BAR LOBO
Modern and stylish bar/restaurant with a cosmopolitan vibe. Perfectly located just by the Ramblas.
Lunch Menu: 12 €
Area: Raval
Address: Pintor Fortuny, 3
web: www.grupotragaluz.com





4.BIG FISH
As the name suggests a great place to eat fresh fish in a little Passage behind the Born market. The stylish interior and terrace is the work of Lazaro Rosa Violan, a famous designer.
Lunch Menu: 14 €
Area: El Borne
Address: C/ Comercial 9
web: www.bigfish.cat




5. CAFE D’ESTIU
A magic space in the Gothic quarter where time stands still. Situated in a courtyard with orange trees and a fountain inside the MFM (Museu Frederic Mares) just by the Cathedral. Only fingerfood like nachos with guacamole but the place is really worth it!
Area: Gothic
Address: Placa de Sant Lu 5-6
web: www.cafedestiu.com





6. ESCRIBA
Very popular also amongst the locals to enjoy the best Paellas and great seafood directly at the seaside. If you want to eat a really good Paella during your visit – this is the place!
Paella around 20 € p.p.
Address: Av. Litoral Mar 42
web: www.escriba.es




7. BESTIAL
Next to the Hotel Arts and below the Frank Gehry fish you will find this great location with seaviews and pure modern design. Not cheap, but good value for money.
Lunch menu: 22 €
Area: Port Olympic
Address: C/ Ramon Trias Fargas 2
web: www.grupotragaluz.com






8. EL BAR DEL CONVENT
Tucked away in the inner courtyard of an old convent you will find this relaxing place. Ideal for families with children. Simple food like Quiches, salads and daily offers.
Lunch: around 10 €
Area: El Borne
Address: Plaza de l’Academia s/n – C/Comerc 36 (see map)
web: www.bardelconvent.com





9. LA VINYA DEL SENYOR
A great spot with an impressive selection of wines and some tapas across from the church of Santa Maria del Mar. Perfect for watching the world go by with a glass of wine.
Prices are quiet high
Area: El Borne
Address: Plaza Santa Maria 5
no website




10. JARDINS
In the garden of an old hospital, which hosts now the art school Massana and a library, you will find this tapas bar. Surrounded by trees and thick stone walls an idyllic spot to relax in the bustling centre.
Dish of the day: 8,20 €
Address: C/ de L’Hospital 56
web:www.eljardibarcelona.es





… there are just too many great places and it was hard to select a top 10 – so here are more terraces we recommend:

EL FILFERRO

Bar and restauraunt with original details and laid back atmosphere in the heart of the lively Barceloneta area. Good quality and cheap prices.
Food: sandwiches around 4 €
Area: Barceloneta
Address: C/ Sant Carles 29
no website





PIC NIC
Brunch is still something quiet new in Barcelona and PIC NIC is THE place to go and enjoy a tasty Sunday brunch. A lunch menu is available as well.
Lunch Menu: 10 € – 12,50 €
Area: El Borne
Address: C/Comerc 1
web: www.picnic-restaurant.com




LA LUNA DE JUPITER
Cozy bar and restaurant with bohemian atmosphere on a square with trees surrounded by roman walls. Simple but delicious food and great sandwiches.
Dish of the day: 6 €, sandwiches around 5 €
Area: Gothic
Address: Placa Traginers 8
no website





MENAGE A TROIS
One of the few places in the very centre which managed to keep its personal style. A block away from the Ramblas, retro decoration and simple food.
Lunch menu: 12 €
Area: Gotic
Address: C/ Bot 4
website: www.menageatrois.es




LA SANTA MARTA
Despite its popular location at the beach, this italian restaurant offers reasonably priced food of good quality. Great for watching the sea and surfers.
Dish of the day: 9 – 12 €
Area: La Barceloneta
Address: Grau i Torras 59
no website



L’ ANTIC TEATRE
A creative centre with a big terrace/garden which attracts mainly the alternative and creative scene. No food available, but nice for a drink after visiting the Palau de la Musica.
Address: c/ Verdaguer i Callis 12
Area: El Borne
web: www.anticteatre.com





El ATRIL
Outstanding quality of food for the modest price of 10 € for a 3 course lunch menu including drinks. Highly recommended!
Lunch Menu: 10 €
Area: El Borne
Address: C/ Carders 23
web: www.atrilbarcelona.com



CAFE DHUB
The cafe and restaurant of the “Disseny Hub” (Textile Design Museum) is located in the beautiful courtyard of an old Palacio just in front of the Picasso Museum.
Lunch Menu: 12 €
Area: El Borne
Address: C/ Montcada 12
no website

]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32800 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32798 The bus from the airport runs every 30 minutes, costs 1.30 euros to the bus station (termibus) and you pay on the bus. It will cost you between 25-30 euros in a taxi.
On the regular buses you can get single or return tickets which you purchase from the individual bus stops. Tickets have to be validated there before you get on the bus. It's easy to understand after the first go.
On the metro it is exactly the same, the machines have all the destinations and it is a touch screen process in various languages. The longest trip we could take on the metro only cost 3.40 euros return. Tickets have to be validated at the same machines.
You can purchase a Bilbao Card from various places which covers all public transport in Bilbao itself but you will need to pay more for trips further out. The cards can be bought for a single day but there are other time periods.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32798 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32789 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/32789