Ahmadinejad: European politicians are stupid

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says "European politicians are stupid, that they know nothing about politics and even less about history". He added that "one was more stupid than the other".

According to the semi-official Fars news agency, President Ahmadinejad said "Iran's foreign enemies cannot harm the Islamic state," adding "they had planned a very complicated and wide-ranging scenario... but they don't know that a nation which is ready to sacrifice its life for its religious figures will destroy all their Satanic attempts".

Mr Ahmadinejad said European politicians erroneously believe that a ban on building minarets will restrict the Islamic religion, saying, "minarets do not cause people to believe, they are a result of belief".

At the end of November, more than 57 percent of the Swiss electorate voted in favour of a referendum banning the construction of minarets. The decision was widely condemned.

Source:rnw.nl/

Spain to rescue stranded air travellers

The Spanish government has chartered four aircraft to take thousands of travellers stranded by the collapse of the Air Comet airline to their destinations.

Air Comet offered mainly cheap flights between Madrid and several destinations in Latin America. It has been experiencing financial difficulties ever since the global financial crisis erupted.

Earlier this week, Spanish aviation authorities withdrew the airline's licences after it requested protection from its creditors and laid off all 600 employees. Since then, travellers have been stranded at airports in Latin America and Spain. Because it is Christmas-time, other airlines have been able to offer only a few vacant seats.

The Spanish government expects to pay six million euros for the charter flights.

Source:rnw.nl/

Liverpool denies pressure from Spain to put Torres under knife

LONDON: Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has dismissed reports that Spain is putting pressure on the club into sending their star striker Fernando Torres Day in Pics: December 25

for surgery to ensure that he is 100 per cent fit for the 2010 World Cup.

No force is being applied to have Torres undergo surgery to cure a niggling groin problem.

Anfield insiders say it is not going to happen anyway because Torres does not want to go under the knife, The Sun reports.

Liverpool has stressed all along that the best way to get Torres fit was to let him rest and then work with the physios on a daily basis. And manager Benitez believes their patience is about to be rewarded, with the Spanish striker ready to play a much bigger role in the second half of the season.

Benitez said: "Torres' condition is improving all the time and he could manage a full Christmas programme. In training this week he was fine. We've been patient with him and it is working.

"It has not been a straightforward thing to deal with. Sometimes he can play and, after the game, you never know how he will react. We don't know if his next game will be easy or difficult for him. There has not been any contact with Spain. None. They know we will do what is best for the player."

"At this moment, he will carry on training and working with the physios every day. That is the correct treatment. We knew we had to manage this problem during the whole season, so sometimes he is good after the treatment and sometimes not," Benitez said.

"The other problem is match fitness. We have some players who have to improve that like Torres, Fabio Aurelio, Alberto Aquilani and Steven Gerrard. We have to balance it for each one but we know we have to win games, so we have to bring the best from each player," he added.

Benitez denied Aquilani's injury problems were worse than Liverpool suspected when they paid Roma 20 million pounds for him in the summer.

Source:indiatimes.com/

Spanish federation extends Del Bosque's stay

Madrid - The Spanish football federation said on Wednesday that national team manager Vicente del Bosque had agreed to extend his contract until 2012.

"The rule of the house has always been that the contract of the national manager is extended after qualifying for the World Cup finals, whatever happens in the tournament," said Angel Maria Villar, the president of the federation at its annual Christmas dinner with the media.

Villar added that "Del Bosque has managed to take our team to the highest place (in the Fifa rankings), and has known how to handle the rich inheritance that he received".

Villar continued his after-dinner speech by saying that 2009 had been a "spectacular year" because of the centenary of the federation, and because of the results obtained.

"We have qualified for the World Cup finals brilliantly, we are the leaders in the world rankings and we have won every match except against the United States (a 2-0 loss in the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup)."

With regard to Spain's prospects at the World Cup, Villar said that "there is a lot of hope, we have a great team".

"But words are one thing and actions another thing. We will go with illusion, enjoying the fact that millions of Spaniards want us to be the champions of the world."

Villar finished by wishing Del Bosque a happy birthday. He is 59 on Wednesday.

Del Bosque, ever calm and composed, has done even better in charge of "La Seleccion" than even his closest friends and supporters hoped.

He took over in July 2008 just after Spain had elegantly won the European Championship in Vienna, when the explosive Luis Aragones - annoyed at Villar not offering him a contract extension earlier - signed for Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

Del Bosque has wisely kept faith with the little ball players - men like Xavi, Andres Iniesta, David Silva and David Villa - who took Europe by storm in 2008, and has gradually added to the mix ambitious youngsters like Gerard Pique, Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Fernando Llorente.

He became the first national manager to win every single match in one of the European six-team World Cup qualifying groups - and can now prepare for South Africa safe in the knowledge that he will be staying in the job until 2012. - Sapa-DPA

Source:iol.co.za/

Spanish lottery hands out more than $3 billion

Spain's Christmas lottery, probably the world's richest, was won earlier in the week by 1,950 people with tickets bearing the number 78294. The lottery is known as 'El Gordo' which literally means 'The Fat One' and is highly anticipated event each year, being held on 22 December.

Each ticket holder will collect $430,000 in winnings and thousands of other people won smaller prizes.

Tickets with the winning number were apparently sold in a Madrid city center lottery office.

The drawing of the winning numbers by students at Madrid's Saint Ildefonso School is a nationally televised event and excitement builds dramatically across Spain in the weeks leading up to it. The lottery is now firmly entrenched as a Spanish holiday tradition.

Whilst there are other lotteries with higher individual top prizes, El Gordo is the world's richest on account of the total sum paid out which is a staggering $3.33 million. There is no single jackpot but rather a share in the top prize.

Source:onlinecasinoreports.com/

Spanish airline Air Comet suspends all flights

Spanish airline Air Comet announced today that all its flights have been suspended owing due to financial problems due to which it is unable to pay its debts. The airline has a fleet of 13 planes and around 1500 passengers use its services everyday.

The airline, which specializes in flights to Latin American countries, has said that the main reason behind its problems is the decision by a commercial court in London on Friday which allowed the German bank ‘Nord Bank’ to deny the airline the right to redeem the mortgage against its debt. It is reported that the debt amount was close to 20 million dollars or 14 million euro.

This has ruined travel plans for a large number of passengers, and that too at a time of the festive season and holidays. The airline is also gearing up for staff lay-offs and declaring its inability to clear off the debts.

Source:spanishnews.es/

Mali albino given Spanish asylum 'fled discrimination'

Lawyers for a Malian albino man granted asylum in Spain have told the BBC he faced constant discrimination at home.

Abdoulaye Coulibaly, 22, who arrived illegally by boat in the Spanish Canary Islands in April, says he also survived two kidnap attempts in 2007.

Cases of violence aimed at albinos are unusual in Mali, but there have been numerous cases of murder, kidnap and torture of albinos in East Africa.

Lawyers say Mr Coulibaly's case shows the problems are more widespread.

In Tanzania, witchdoctors sell good-luck potions made from the body parts of albino people for thousands of dollars.

'Bad luck'

Mr Coulibaly is the first albino man from Africa to be granted asylum by Spain.


We've been telling people that albinos are human like anyone else, that their hair doesn't bring happiness or wealth

Mamoutou Keita of the Salif Keita Foundation
His case was taken up by the Spanish refugee aid agency, CEAR.

"He found it difficult to get work in Mali and whenever anything went wrong in his town, people would blame him," Kimi Aoki, a lawyer from CEAR in Las Palmas, told the BBC.

"They said he brought bad luck," she said.

Mr Coulibaly was even blamed when the boat that carried the migrants to Spain from Africa got into difficulty.

Ms Aoki said he escaped two kidnap attempts with the help of people on the street.

"They tried to kidnap me twice to use my body," Mr Coulibaly told Spanish newspaper El Pais.

"I know they cut off the fingers and hands of other albinos to use them in rituals."

Lawyers' surprise

His case was supported by the famous Malian musician Salif Keita, who is albino himself.



Even so, the foundation established by the singer says a series of public information campaigns in Mali have helped reduce the risk of kidnap or killing.

"We've been telling people that albinos are human like anyone else, that their hair doesn't bring happiness or wealth, that their heart is the same as anyone's," the foundation's Mamoutou Keita says.

"More and more people are starting to understand that an albino is like anyone else. All that's different is the lack of melanin in their skin."

Now in Tenerife, Mr Coulibaly is learning Spanish and plans to find work.

He has also discussed trying to help his two brothers - who are also albino - join him legally in Spain.

It can take up to two years for the Spanish authorities to process an asylum application but Mr Coulibaly's case was completed in just nine months.

Surprised local lawyers call it a "real success" and hope it can help other albino people who seek refuge here.

The asylum application of the only other African albino to do so previously was rejected and is currently under appeal.

Spain's Interior Ministry did not accept that the serious daily discrimination he reported in Nigeria amounted to persecution.

Sourc:bbc.co.uk

Ship with £375m cocaine cargo is seized

Police have smashed a London-based drugs gang after a ship carrying a record £375 million of cocaine was seized off the Spanish coast.

Spanish police boarded the 150ft former coastguard vessel, named Destiny Empress, yesterday after it crossed the Atlantic from the West Indies. Armed officers swooped on the boat with support from the Spanish Navy.

The raid was co-ordinated by Scotland Yard's Central Task Force with support from the Spanish police and the Serious and Organised Crime Agency. Detective Chief Inspector Peter Beyer said the cocaine haul was the biggest the Met had ever seized. He added that the drugs were destined for London and the seizure would have an effect on the price of cocaine in the coming months.

"We target the people at a higher level. We want to catch people who import the drugs in large amounts and we have made a huge dent in that," Mr Beyer said.

The gang was linked to a network stretching between London, Spain, the Caribbean and Colombia. The vessel, which had been tracked across the Atlantic from Trinidad, was carrying at least 1.5 tonnes of cocaine.

Its crew was arrested and other arrests have taken place in London.

Source:thisislondon.co.uk/

Italy - Minister Frattini in phone calls to his Spanish and Mauritanian counterparts to discuss the kidnapping of Italian nationals

Foreign Minister Franco Frattini spoke today on the phone with his Mauritanian colleague, Naha Mint Mouknass. The Mauritanian Foreign Minister assured Frattini of his full cooperation in the search being conducted by his country’s security organisations for the kidnapped Italian nationals.

Minister Frattini also spoke with his Spanish colleague, Miguel Angel Moratinos, who offered his country’s support through its embassies in Mauritania and Mali.

Minister Frattini expressed his deep gratitude to his two colleagues. He also confirmed his determination to maintain the utmost media reserve on the operational instructions issued and the contacts being established in the region by the competent institutions. This is to ensure the safety of the kidnapped Italian citizens.

The Foreign Ministry will also refrain from issuing news to the media on any analysis and assessment regarding the place where the van was found in a region very near the border with Mali. This desert area is fairly distant from the north-south route between Mauritania and Burkina Faso which, it seems, was the kidnapped couple’s intended destination.

The authorities are pursuing all possible contacts and information that might further their investigations and help them take the appropriate action to obtain the release of our fellow nationals.

Source:isria.com/

Spanish Inquisition: Is It All Downhill From Here For Barcelona

As the Blaugrana return home to celebrate their sixth title this year, Goal.com’s KS Leong explores the wise old saying that what goes up, must come down.

Not to rain on anyone’s parade, but the future does look rather bleak for Barcelona... but in a good, complimentary kind of way. And besides they were coach, Pep Guardiola’s own words, not mine.

But the former midfield maestro turned prodigy coach does have a very valid point. And he is making those declarations as a pre-emptive measure to play down any expectations from fans and critics that the team will effortlessly waltz away with 12 titles in 2010. Not that that’s possible, even for the wizards and magicians of Camp Nou, but you get the gist of what he’s trying to do.

Everyone at the Barca camp, including Pep himself, had remarked that it would be near impossible to repeat the kind of success that the club attained over the past 12 months.

Everything that Barcelona do from here on out, whether it’s Guardiola’s team or a completely different squad five, ten years down the line, will always be compared to the history-makers of 2009. Real Madrid had to live in the shadows of the Alfredo Di Stefano-led glory era from the 50’s and 60’s for a long time, while Milan had to contend with their own achievements from the 80’s. More recently, Arsenal have had to cope with a barrage of condemnation because the current young stars are struggling to revive the team of ‘Invincibles’ from the 2003/04 season when they won the league title without losing a single game.

Even now, Barca are drawing critique after critique for their performances, simply because they do not look as vibrant and as exhilarating as they did last season, eventhough they are still playing beautiful, possession football and getting the required results. One can only guess just how much they will be slandered and disparaged should they walk away with only the Copa del Rey in 2010.

The fact of the matter is, their achievements in 2009 do not need to be topped or even replicated. There’s no official rule in football saying that a club must win the same amount of titles or more one year after the other to join the annals of the all-time greats. The class of 2008/09 won the sextuple and it will be this group of players who will be recognised as the immortals of their generation.

But football, as with all things in life, doesn’t quite work like that. People will celebrate and embrace Barca’s unprecedented success, but in the long run, it is ultimately failure that will be remembered and revisited the most.

Which of these two games will people bring to light more often in the future: the 6-1 mauling of Real Zaragoza or the 2-1 home defeat to Rubin Kazan in the Champions League?



The bar has also been raised monumentally not just for the Blaugrana, but for the next administration who will take over Joan Laporta’s reign. It will be even tougher for Guardiola. There is absolutely nothing he can do that will top his outrageous achievements in his first 18-monts at the job. Such is the exaltation that has been showered on Pep that if and when he chooses to leave Catalunya to coach a different club abroad, he will forever have to carry the six winners’ medas around his neck wherever he goes, and be expected to deliver the same level of success, whether it will be at Roma, Brescia or Rubin Kazan.

While the harshest of critics will demand that Barcelona go on to win another six titles in the new year before they can be convinced that Guardiola’s Drean Team II are a champion outfit, there’s a small part inside the rest of us who do not want the Calatan behemoths to duplicate another hextuple-winning campaign.

Records are meant to be broken and the history books are there to be written on, but it’s always more unique and treasured when a crowning achievement is accomplished only once. If it happens to often and repeated too frequently, the allure and the myth will disappear.

And if everything does go downhill from here for Barca, they will always have 2009.

Source:goal.com

Real Madrid signs Marko Jaric from Grizzlies for rest of Spanish league season

MADRID, Spain — Real Madrid has signed former NBA player Marko Jaric for the remainder of the Spanish league season.

The six-foot-seven guard has not played for the Memphis Grizzlies this season.

Jaric will be reunited with coach Ettore Messina nine years after they helped Kinder Bologna win Euroleague and Italian league titles.

Jaric then made the jump to the NBA, where he averaged 7.1 points and 3.6 assists in seven seasons. He spent three years with the Los Angeles Clippers and three more with the Minnesota Timberwolves before moving to Memphis last season, where he averaged 2.5 points in 53 appearances.

Jaric, 31, was a member of then-Yugoslavia's world championship-winning team in 2002

Source:http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5i0fnmuilyXoI50Zj6V8Q0yBPF_Lw

Al Hamra

Al Hamra (Arabic: الحمراء‎) is a 400-year-old town in the region Ad Dakhiliyah, in northeastern Oman. It is home to the mountainside village of Misfat Al Abryeen.

Al-Hamra is also known as Hamra Al-Abryeen with reference to the Al Abri tribe who live there. Some of the oldest preserved houses in Oman can be found in Al Hamra, a town built on a tilted rock slab. Many of the houses have two stories, with ceilings made of palm beams and fronds topped by mud and straw. Visit the nearby souq and watch a halwa maker at work in the only halwa shop still operating in the old souq

Article Source: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Hamra

Art & Architecture At Its Best – Tailor-made Holidays In Spain

Spain may conjure up pictures of sunloungers, sandcastles and beer, but arguably the best thing about the country is its incredible collection of art. Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso and Diego Velazquez were all born here, and a luxury holiday in Spain, tailor-made to explore the best of Spanish art, is the ideal way to explore this country’s impressive galleries and remarkable architecture.

If you want to sample the best of Spanish art, you can’t go wrong with a luxury holiday in Spain’s capital, Madrid or a short break to Bilbao to take in its magnificent Guggenheim Museum. Alternatively you could take a tailor-made holiday to Spain’s artistic and architectural mecca, Barcelona, perhaps incorporating a stay in a luxury Spanish villa.

Madrid

If you’re looking for the right location for an absorbing luxury holiday in Spain, Madrid is considered one of the top European destinations for visiting galleries. The Golden Triangle of Art, located along the Paseo del Prado, has three galleries within a few minutes’ walk of each other.

First of all, there is the Prado Museum, with its unsurpassed collection of paintings by Baroque artists Velázquez and Goya. The Prado is the most famous of the three. The other two museums are the Thyssen Bornemisza Museum and the Reina Sofia Museum, where Picasso's Guernica hangs. For anyone interested in modern art, a tailor-made holiday to Spain would be incomplete without a viewing of this dark masterpiece.

Barcelona

Luxury holidays in Spain’s magical city of Barcelona are hugely popular, one of the main reasons being its extensive range of fabulous art galleries. Stay in a boutique hotel near to the famous Ramblas, or spread out in a luxury Spanish villa, and embark on a tour of all the best exhibitions.

Among the best of the modern art galleries are the Fundació Joan Miró, the Picasso Museum and the Fundació Antoni, and the Museu Picasso features many of Picasso's early works. The Dali Museum is a short train journey from Barcelona and an important addition to a tailor-made holiday in Spain.

But the most visible art to be seen in Barcelona is in the design of its buildings. The highly original and fabulous work of architect Antoni Gaudi can be seen and explored throughout the city., but Gaudi’s best-known building is the immense but still unfinished church, the Sagrada Familia. This elaborate building, which looks like something out of a fairy tale, is a must see for any art holiday in Spain. Tailor-made itineraries should also include Gaudi’s wonderful Park Guell and Casa Mila building.

Bilbao

Bilbao was not a traditional destination for holidays in Spain, luxury or otherwise, until what is now the most recognisable feature of Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum, opened in 1997. Built in shiny titanium, this fantastic building houses an unmatched collection of 20th century art, which rotates between Bilbao, Venice and New York.

US architect Frank Gehry based the design of the Guggenheim on the shapes of a fish and a boat, two important elements in the history of this former industrial city, whose chief activities were shipbuilding and fishing. The museum has injected new life into the city and tourists from all over the world are now flocking to take luxury holidays in Spain’s new area of cultural interest, Bilbao.

As well as being home to the famous Guggenheim Museum, the city’s Fine Arts Museum is recognised as one of the finest art galleries in Spain. A tailor-made holiday to Bilbao should include a visit to this highly prestigious gallery, which has over six thousand paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings and objects from the 12th century to the present day.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Essential Things To Do When You Visit Barcelona

Barcelona is such a breathtaking city. If you are planning to target European cities as a vacation spot, Catalonia’s capital and Spain’s second largest city should be on the top of your visit list. Here, you have numerous beautiful places to see and explore and you will have a lot of activities to engage in to make the trip worth your while.

During your stay in this beautiful city, don’t miss out on visiting some of Antonio Gaudi’s world famous creations like the Sagrada Familia Cathedral (Holy Family Cathedral) which is one of Gaudi’s biggest buildings that is still unfinished even up to this day. The most popular park in Barcelona which is the Park Güell is also one of his designs. It has been declared by UNESCO as a world heritage site. You can find here the famous dragon as well as unique monuments of unconventional shape and design. A spectacular view of the city can be seen from its terrace. The park is free for the public to visit and is open every day.

A visit to Picasso Museum at the center of the city will mystify and amaze you with some of Picasso’s famous works. A must visit also is the Maritime Museum. An art enthusiast can find dozens of museums in Barcelona.

Try taking a walk through the lively street of La Rambla. You can make a stop at the second largest opera theatre called “el Liceu.” This area is a popular place to dine, shop and most especially do some sightseeing.

If beaches are your thing, Barcelona has several to offer. Playa la Barcelona is just ten minutes away from central Barcelona. You could also opt for Sitges Beach which is outside the city.

For a visit to Gothic monuments, take a stopover at Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter). This place is filled with squares of bars and cafes with a busy market at its heart. If you visit the square on a Sunday you will get a chance to see some dancers perform a traditional Catalonian Dance called sardana.

If you are looking for leisure time visit some of Barcelona’s attraction parks like the one in Tibidabo or experience a three dimensional movie in IMAX Barcelona. If you have the extra time you can take a train for a one hour trip to an amusement park called Universal’s Port Aventura in Tarragona, a city near Barcelona. Take a ride in their roller coaster or enjoy the different country themes (China, Mexico, Polynesia, Mediterranean, and the Far West) that the park is offering.

Barcelona is also home to Europe’s largest aquarium. Enjoy the experience of seeing marine creatures, fishes, water flowers and animal invertebrates.

For a good night out, Barcelona has a lot of restaurants and bars. A nice dinner coupled with a glass of sparkling cava (local champagne) will prove to be a romantic evening. Try roaming through Port Vell where you will find Maremagnum Center for an array of shops, restaurants, cafés, pubs and bars. The Ribera, St. Gervasi and Gracia should also be considered.

When in Barcelona don’t overlook taking a taste of their delectable Catalan cuisine. Try sampling the escudella, suquet de peix and their wide array of fish and seafood dishes. For dessert, try crema catalana (custard with a caramel crust) and mel i mató (cottage cheese and honey).

If you haven’t done your shopping check out Eixample for fashion shops and jewelry stores. The Pesseig de Gracia is also abounding with commercial galleries. You can also find two department stores with designer boutiques in the Diagonal area. In Placa de las Glories Catalanes is a flea market called Mercat de les Encants selling unique antiques and trinkets.

You will surely enjoy your Barcelona experience. Visit Barcelona!

Great Places To Stay In Barcelona

A most populous and the capital city of Catalonia – Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and the major economic center. It is one of the most lively and elegant cities in the world. The city has much more to see and offer from the historical buildings to skyscrapers, beaches, parks and museums bars, restaurant and typical Catalan dishes. The city has the honor of having the second largest airport in Spain.

Barcelona has a very strong historical background. It is still astonishing that such a dynamic and modern city still preserves its history. The traces of it can be seen in the Museum, which houses many relics. As it has a Mediterranean type of climate with dry winters and warm, humid summers the best time to visit this place is in the onset of summer or spring.

The city has many commercial complexes around 68 municipal parks of which 6 are forest parks, 45 urban parks 12 historic parks and 5 thematic parks. The Montjuic Park is the largest one, which is situated on a mountain. The ciutadella Park has several museums, zoo and the parliament building. The park itself is built on an old military citadel.

Barcelona is known for its fashion fiesta, food and fun, the city sizzles with the events happening round the year, discotheques, concerts, Shows, bars. Night is buzzing in Barcelona with its vibrant and lively cultural activities and amusement. Beaches in Barcelona are most happening places.

The oldest and the most visited beaches are separated by other beaches from the Olympic port. These beaches have pristine beauty and panoramic view and are the most popular leisure spaces.

The tryst with the city is incomplete without seeing the museums. There are many museums, which cover many areas and time period. These museums give you the complete picture of the city, lifestyle, civilization of the past and the development in the present.

It has all the track records of the events in chronological order and the historical figures. Sports in Barcelona are the center of attraction and the first choice of every individual. The FC Barcelona is the world famous sports club well known for its football team all over the world. It has successful hosted several grand sports event of football world cup, XFINA world championship, Eurobasket and the most coveted event the Olympics. Being in this city you will experience the modernity with the tinge of ethnicity.

In the friendly hotels in Barcelona you will find the world-class accommodation and services. It is more due to the tourist-oriented nature of the city, that you can find a hotel that is suitable for every budget. Restaurants in Barcelona offer some of the finest delicacies that make their way from around the globe.

It is such an advantage for the international visitors that they can find the best of culinary from their continent right in the restaurants of the city. The luxury hotels in the city offer air-conditioned rooms, health clubs and spas, airport pickup and drop facility, car rentals and many more services. It is best to make prior reservations before making your way to the city to avoid last minute hassles

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Guggenheim Museum Bilboa

The Guggenheim Museum Bilboa, in Spain, was built in 1997 by Frank Gehry, a Pritzker Prize winning Canadian/American Architect. Mr. Gehry is well known for his modern architecture, much of which seems to defy logic with its curves and bends. Unlike many architects, he completed construction of the museum on time and within the original budget.

The curvatures of the museum were created using a combination of titanium, limestone and glass. The artwork protected from heat damage by the glass curtain walls that were built throughout the structure. The entire museum took three years to complete; it was started in October of 1994, and was first open to the public on October 19, 1997. Built beside the Nevion River, water reflects beautifully off the glass walls of the building that looks more like the sculptures it houses, rather than a functional museum. Even the entrance makes one commend the architect’s vision in making the building an extension of the modern art inside.

Design of the Guggenheim was created using computers due to the mathematical complexity of each curve. The resemblance of the museum to a ship was deliberate, due to the port status the town holds. If you look closely at the glass walls, you will note that they look like scales of a fish, and this fish design, which can be found in much of Gehry's work, is carried throughout the structure.

Though the magnificence of the museum itself will leave you spellbound, do not forget the brilliance of the artwork within and on the grounds of the building. Many of the exhibits change periodically, giving visitors incentive to come often, though there are permanent exhibits as well. The museum is easy to navigate, which many be surprising considering the complexity of the exterior. Gehry's creativity can be seen inside the structure, as visitors enter the atrium. Gazing up, your eyes will be drawn to the skylight, which resembles a metal flower, allowing natural light to bathe the room. A canopy covered terrace, glass elevators, a sculptural tower, curving walkways, and stair turrets are also featured in the interior design. The hours spent exploring this modern museum will be well worth the visit.

Not far from this impressive structure, still along the banks of the river, lies the Sheraton Bilbao Hotel. The hotel offers a variety of ways to relax, with an outdoor heated pool, sauna and fitness centre for your pleasure. The Café Chillida and Aizian Restaurant both serve Basque cuisine, designed to delight even the most discerning palette. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences, allowing you to enjoy your experience to the fullest. The Sheraton Bilbao Hotel is within easy access to Dona Casilda Park, where the Museum of Fine Arts resides, as well as the Euskalduna Conference and Concert Hall, making this the perfect choice to stay during your visit to Bilbao, Spain.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Speaking Spanish In Spain

One of the best ways to experience a Spanish speaking country is to be able to understand what is being said around you. So, why not learn Spanish? It’s not as difficult as it may sound. You can actually learn to speak Spanish from the comfort of you own home with your personal computer as your teacher. Luckily, there are a number of online programs that will teach you what you need to know to communicate once you get to Spain.

In addition to getting a better feel for the Spanish culture by speaking the language, there are other benefits of leaning the language as well. Once you return home from your trip, being able to be bilingual is very coveted by employers and may open up a whole world of new jobs to you.

Learning Spanish Online

The biggest benefit of learning Spanish online is that you can gear the course to your speed. You do not have to worry about keeping up with the class, you can do as much or as little as you want each time you sit down to learn. When you get on the internet and conduct a search you will notice there are a number of websites that offer Spanish courses from home. Some are free; others will charge you for the classes. Generally, those that charge do have more to offer and a more comprehensive learning program.

The largest worldwide Spanish instruction organization is the Instituto Cervantes. The whole goal of the organization is to promote Spanish culture and the teaching of Spanish worldwide. It was founded in 1991 as a public institution in Spain. Now it is spreading out and is in four continents.

These courses are very detailed. They do teach all the areas necessary for speaking Spanish such as the spelling, grammar, vocabulary and phonetics. But, they also teach the importance of Spanish culture, and about socio cultural issues.

Once You’ve Completed Learning Spanish Online

While taking courses is a good way to learn the language, the best way to know you are ready to use it and to become more fluent is to immerse your self in a situation where you must speak Spanish and see how well you do. Traveling to a Spanish speaking country is a good way to be surrounded by the culture and traditions as well as be surrounded by the language.

There are also programs called language immersion programs in Madrid, Seville and Barcelona. These are considered the by-far fastest way to learn the language and become fluent.

The immersion classes are geared towards smaller groups of students with a number of activities where you must use Spanish and only speak Spanish. In addition to classroom time there are many times you will be out in the public and interact with people, honing your skills.

When it comes to accommodations you may be put in an apartment with another student, or be hosted by a local family which will be a great opportunity to learn the culture of the country first-hand.

Article Source: http://www.travelarticlelibrary.com

Holidays in Aragon (Zaragoza, Teruel, Huesca)

The region of Aragon can be found in northeastern Spain and comprises the provinces of Zaragosa, Huesca and Teruel. The region lies approximately with the historic kingdom of Aragon and is bounded to the north by France; the south by Valencia; the east by Catalonia and on the west by the regions of Castilla la Mancha, Castilla Leon, Navarre and La Rioja. The official spoken language in Aragon is Castilian Spanish, although in some of the valleys of the Pyrenees it is possible to hear the original language of Aragonese.

Aragon is traversed by the river Ebro, which offers fish of such numbers and proportions that the Ebro is considered one of the best locations in Europe for Cat and Carp fishing. With a population of just over 1.3 million people living in Aragon, and half of them living in the capital city of Zaragoza, the region is mostly deserted with beautiful, mountainous scenery to the north, and mainly barren land in the south.

The greatest peaks of the Pyrenees Mountains can be found in Aragon with Aneto, the highest of them all, being found in the province of Huesca. In amongst the mountains can be found some beautiful secluded valleys, which remain largely un-spoilt due to their inaccessibility. Spread thinly through the valleys and plains can be found small towns and churches with great views of the rugged landscape.

The region of Aragon has three provinces whose capital cities Zaragoza, Huesca and Teruel take the same names as their province. There are many, small towns all across the region, and especially in the province of Teruel where out of the 236 municipalities, more than half the villages have a population of fewer than 200 people. In-between the villages the land is mostly deserted and quite barren.

Zaragoza, capital of Aragon
The huge Plaza del Pilar is the social centre of Zaragoza, looked over by some wonderful old monuments and fine fountains. Here can be found the Basílica del Pilar; whose domes and towers dominate the city and this is where legend has it the Virgin Mary appeared. To the west of the city centre can be found the La Aljaferia palace. An Islamic-fortress, it was once the residence of Arab kings and later by Christian kings, Aragonese kings and then by Spanish monarchs. Nowadays, the building houses Aragon's regional parliament.

Aragon Monasterio de San Juan de la Peña
Located 30km southwest of Jaca, this monastery church that is dedicated to saint John, is situated beneath a huge overhanging rock. The monastery has had special significance since Muslim times where pilgrims would stop here in the hope of viewing the Holy Grail, a Roman chalice which was hidden somewhere in the monastery. The Roman chalice is now on view in Valencia Cathedral. The lower church represents the heart of the monastery that was founded in 920. On the second floor is the Pantheon where can be seen the tombs of noblemen from both Aragon and Navarre. Inside the apse of the High Church of San Juan can be seen a replica of the Holy Grail which was kept inside the walls to protect it against Muslim invasion.

Ordesa National Park
Declared a national park in 1918, an area of more than 15,600 hectares is now protected in the Biosphere Reserve or Ordesa as declared by UNESCO is 1997. Most of the park is limestone and a retreating glacier still exists on the north face of Monte Pedido, the third largest mountain in the Pyrenees. The park's dramatic mountain scenery comprises of limestone cliffs, canyons, caves, chasms and crystal-clear streams with forests of pine, birch, ash, willow and oak. Great birds fly the skies including the royal eagle, hawks, royal owls, ospreys and the snow partridge, while on the ground can be seen the marmot, wild boar, chamois and the red deer. The park is open all year round but the months between April and October offer the best conditions for walking and hiking.

Aragon is a wonderful region of Spain to visit. The Pyrenees Mountains offer wonderful dramatic scenery to the north and the ancient cities of Zaragoza, Teruel and Huesca have many important historical buildings. If you are looking for a different holiday experience in Spain, Aragon may just be the location of choice.

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Costa del Sol holiday parks - animals & birds

There are many animal parks to be found the whole length of the Costa del Sol. They offer a great way to spend time, and get close to some of the most fascinating animals that inhabit the world we live in.

ALMUNECAR – Tropical Bird Park
Loro Sexi tropical bird park was opened in 1987 and is now home to thousands of birds including swans, parrots, ducks, pigeons, macaws and even ostriches. During the summer, the park holds parrot shows throughout the day, a firm favourite with the kids, and there is also a cactus garden to explore.

ANTEQUERA – Lobo Wolf Park
Lobo Wolf Park in Antequera is a unique nature experience and study park situated in the heart of Andalucia. The park has four large enclosures with European wolves, Timber wolves, rare white Alaska Tundra wolves and Iberian Wolves. It is also possible to take a riding tour on noble Andalucia horses around the park to enjoy the wonderful landscape.

BENALMADENA – Garden of Eagles
The Garden of Eagles is clearly signposted and can be found at the Jardin de Las Aguilas in Benalmadena. It is open all year, but only in the afternoons. Altogether, there are over 160 birds of prey with displays held throughout the day by expert handlers. There is also a miniature castle and reptile sanctuary to explore.

BENALMADENA – Sea Life
Both the young and old will enjoy a day spent at Sea Life. The underwater passage is a great way to experience some of the more exotic Mediterranean aquatic life including sharks, rays, eels and much more. Sea Life offers some good information on our under-water world, and the opportunity to get close to some really fascinating creatures. There are regular feeding sessions throughout the day, popular with both children and adults alike.

ESTEPONA – SELWO Animal Park
SELWO Adventure Park in Estepona covers more than 100 hectares and is home to more than 2,000 roaming animals. The park is split into zones featuring different animals, with much to see on foot. There is a large lagoon populated with exotic birds including flamingos, and a huge enclosure where 40 different species of birds live freely. The park features animals from all over the world in enclosures that have been recreated to reflect their natural habitats. There are also many shows, classes and exhibitions to keep all the family interested throughout the day.

FUENGIROLA – Zoo
Situated in the middle of Fuengirola city, the zoo can be difficult to locate, but once found, it offers an excellent opportunity to see some wonderful animals in nicely designed habitats. There is plenty to see including lions, alligators, the monkey enclosure and some wonderful aquatic life. Many animals come to life around feeding time, and there is a play enclosure for the children too.

NERJA – Donkey Sanctuary
Nerja Donkey Sanctuary is situated at the western edge of Nerja, where donkeys, ponies, mules, horses, cats & dogs all have a home. The Donkey Sanctuary is free and welcomes all visitors young and old to come and enjoy some time spend with these wonderful animals. All the donkeys have either been rescued or donated to the sanctuary and are now well looked after by volunteers and anyone who wants to lend a hand.

TORREMOLINOS – Crocodile Park
In Torremolinos Crocodile Park you will find yourself in front of prehistoric monsters. These carnivores have miraculously survived 200 million years of evolution, having existed since the time of the dinosaurs. Lose yourself at the wonder at these gigantic crocodiles by silently walking beside them, observing the secrets of one of the most fascinating creatures of our world.

Costa del Sol animal parks, zoos and aviaries offer a great opportunity for our children to see some of the wonderful animals who co-exist with us in this world that we live in. Sometimes, this is the closest people get to seeing some animals that may disappear out of existence within our lifetime, as a result of our changing world. Children love to see animals and birds, and maybe some will be inspired enough to help save some of our wonderful wildlife disappearing from our world.

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Many a Madrid in the United States

If you think you will have to travel to Europe to see Madrid, you will be surprised to know that there are many towns named Madrid in the United States. The original Madrid in Spain, no doubt, is very famous, thanks to the classics of Ernest Hemmingway, and also because it is a popular tourist resort.

Madrid, Maine is located in the heart of Franklin County and actually named for the Spanish capital. The tiny town has a population well under 200 residents and sits on the lovely banks of the Sandy River near Salem. Madrid, Maine dates back to 1887 and was settled by Free Baptists, who opened seven schoolhouses for the town’s children.

The state of Alabama has its own Madrid. This one is little bigger than Madrid, Maine. This town has a population of more than 300 and is located in Houston County which is a part of metropolitan Dothan. Just like Madrid Maine, this town is also named after the famous Spanish city of Madrid.

The third Madrid is in the state of New York next to the Grasse River. It was in 1801 that the first settlers came to this small area of land near Potsdam and Lisbon and called it Madrid. Later it was named New Madrid but finally the council decided to call it only Madrid. It is in St. Lawrence County. There was a large and successful grist mill in Madrid, New York for many years until it was eventually closed. This town also resembles its namesake in Spain.

The “Show Me” state also has a town named after the Spanish capital. New Madrid was founded in 1783 by two French settlers who came to the state, originally naming the town L’Anse a la Graisse. Today, New Madrid boasts a population of approximately 3,000 residents and is about 4.5 square miles in size. Approximately 45 miles south of Cape Girardeau and 145 miles south of St. Louis, New Madrid was completely destroyed by earthquakes in 1811 and rests directly on the New Madrid fault.

Another Madrid is in the Midwestern United States. It is just 25 miles northwest of Iowa's capital city. It was founded in 1846 by Swedish settlers, often referred to as a bedroom community of Des Moines. It happens to be the oldest Swedish settlement in the west of the Mississippi River. This small hamlet has become quite prosperous since the railway traveled through it. The town was renamed in 1882 and incorporated in 1886.

You can learn more about these towns from their town websites. They may be small, but they all are up-to-date with the latest technology and have firmly planted their place on the World Wide Web.

If you are interested in visiting the Spanish capital, but don’t have the time or money, check out the next best thing—Madrid, USA! There are many other American towns named after European capitals, so get our your atlas and complete a search.

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Costa del Sol holiday attractions, activities & things to do

There is more to the Costa del Sol than just beach holidays. For family entertainment, the Costa del Sol has a huge range of holiday attractions and activities to keep the whole family happy and busy during your holiday stay in Andalucia.

ADVENTURE THEME PARKS
Isla Magica is an exciting and modern amusement park located in Seville. It is divided into seven themed areas centred on a lake, each representing a different episode in Spanish 16th century history. The seven areas are Port of the Indies, Amazonia, Pirates Cove, Gate to the Americas, Fountain of Youth, Eldorado and the Fury of the Gods.

Tivoli World in Benalmadena is one of the best amusement parks you will find in Spain. There are a host of attractions including an amusement park, funfair rides, water flume, wild-west theme town, open-air theatre and a mock Spanish plaza offering a host of shows overlooked with cafes and restaurants.

DOLPHIN WATCHING IN GIBRALTAR
Fantastic opportunity for photographing and getting close to up to 3 different species of dolphin, 7 species of whale, turtles and flying fish, while enjoying a cruise around the spectacular bay of Gibraltar. Gibraltar itself is a great place to visit and less than a 2 hour drive from Malaga International Airport.

MINI HOLLYWOOD
The desert hills of Almeria were the location for many of the famous Spaghetti Westerns such as A Fistful of Dollars and A Few Dollars More. It is now where you will find the Mini Hollywood near Tabernas on the A370. A full-blooded Western Theme Park with realistic sets, saloons and staged gunfights throughout the day.

NERJA CAVES
Discovered in 1959, the Caves of Nerja have become one of the most visited attractions in Andalucia and each summer hosts the spectacular Festival of Music and Dance. They are truly worth a visit to see nature's creation of the great hall with magnificent limestone designs, the centrepiece of many theatre productions.

RACE COURSE AT MIJAS HIPODROME
The Mijas Hipodromo on the Costa del Sol was the first racecourse to open in Spain for 25 years. There are two concentric tracks, floodlighting for nighttime racing, a grandstand for 5,000 spectators and trackside seating for a further 5,000 people. Knowing that many horse ridings are also dog lovers, there is a dog hotel available where you can leave your pets.

SCUBA DIVING
There are several scuba diving and PADI dive centres near Nerja on the Costa del Sol and Costa Tropical in southern Spain. There are PADI dive programs for all levels of divers and snorkelling trips from beginners to advanced divers.

WALKING AND HIKING IN ANDALUCIA
Andalucia is one of the best walking regions in Spain because it has everything to offer the seasoned and novice traveller. It has a great climate, one of the highest mountains in Europe, fantastic towns and cities full of history and culture. There are also wild unfrequented areas filled with dramatic scenery and some of the most interesting flora and fauna to be found anywhere in Spain.

WATER-PARKS
There are many water-parks on the Costa del Sol so you shouldn't have much difficulty finding one near your holiday resort. Water-parks are a great place to spend the whole day as a refreshing alternative to the beach.

Aquatropic water-park can be found next to Velilla beach in the town of Almunecar, on the Costa Tropical. The park offers an array of water slides including the firm favourites like the kamikaze & ring-rapids, with a range of swimming pools with wave machine, waterfall, and revolving current with inflatables. There are plenty of green areas to relax and eateries offering snacks, meals and refreshments.

Aqua-Velis water-park can be found opposite the El Ingenio shopping mall in Torre del Mar. It has over 20 different rides for all ages including some super fast slides for the more adventurous. There is an inflatable ring ride and wave machine along with a large sun terrace for sunbathers and cafeteria serving food and drinks.

The water-park at Torremolinos is especially large, offering many water-based attractions including water flumes, huge slides, large pools, and artificial river with wave machine.

CONCLUSION
The Costa del Sol offers a host of holiday attractions and activities to help you make the most of your stay in Spain. As an alternative to a visit to the beach, they are a great opportunity for some fun, adventure and excitement for the whole family. Well worth a day out from a busy schedule of sunbathing and shopping.

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Travel in Spain: Great free pocket travel guide of Barcelona

Flashbooking chose to provide backpackers, students and families with a list of budget selected and independent accommodations worldwide, mostly run by locals, in order to promote an alternative tourism respectful of cultures and different societies. For this and other reasons Flashbooking is becoming a recognized source of information and services for who loves creating a trip by him/herself and book bed nights securely online.

Flashbooking cheap lodging solutions are all available for online bookings and divided by Countries. Travellers have free access to the updated list of Europe hostels and budget hotels, North and South America hostels, Caribbean and Central America hostels as well as for Asia cheap accommodations, Oceania youth hostels and Africa hostels.

Flashbooking's happy travellers can book their rooms and beds not only in cheap hotels or cheap hostel Barcelona but also consider other budget accommodations in Bed and Breakfast, Guesthouses, Campsites, apartments, farm houses and much more.

Flashbooking accommodation database is easily available online and comes completed with all relevant information about youth hostel and hotel location and map, description, services, hostel contacts, customer ratings, six pictures and updated prices inclusive of taxes and services together with instant real availability.

Having the reservation final price is also convenient as it does give the transparency our users pretend while booking. Having the final total amount of your booking means you do not have to worry about other extra surprises!

Other reasons to chose Flashbooking? Flashbooking helps you saving money with a special promotion that allows travellers to earn money and credits of 1,5 euros by inviting other friends to subscribe and receive the monthly newsletter, rich of information about hostel and hotel deals. For each friend that sings up, our travellers get 1,50 euros: it is possible to earn up to 40 euros! These credits are immediately registered in the user's personal online account 'My Booking' and at the reach of 40 euros they are automatically deducted to pay your online hostel reservations!!!

With the monthly newsletter, Flashbooking puts at travellers, students, volunteers free disposal some useful pocket travel guides of major European cities: the Amsterdam City guide, the London City guide, the Prague City guide, the Paris City guide, the Rome City guide, the Florence City guide, and the freshly issued Barcelona City guide!! For the Barcelona travel guide Flashbooking staff efforts concentrate on making it simple to read dividing the Barcelona centre in different districts with their relevant amenities.

The Barcelona free travel guide is full of essential hints on where to go, things to see, Barcelona's Museums, Sagrada Familia, Casa Battlò, Casa Milà, Palace of Catalan Music, Foundation Joan Mirò, Picasso Museum, Macba, CCCB, Mnac, shopping mall and flea markets, quality places reasonably priced where to eat Spanish famous tapas, the Catalan cream or drink cava wine, clubs and discos, budget hostels and cheap hotel deals to book, emergency numbers and more. The free City pocket guide of the Catalan City contains, in just 9 printable pages, all the essential information and very good suggestions divided by areas: Barcelona Ramblas, Barcelona Barrio Gotico, Barcelona Example, Barcelona Raval, Barceloneta, Barcelona Montjiuc and Barcelona Rivera.

Barcelona is renown for its open and friendly international people, art museums and Art Galleries, the sea, the movida and cheap lodgings, classic itineraries in the Catalan region and a lot more to make a visit worth wise.

In general, Flashbooking guides have been written for giving the essential information about the most visited cities in the world and in particular for any traveller or first-time visitor. For a short visit, a week-end, a city break, these free pocket guides are useful printable and downloadable tools available online.

In the Barcelona City guide students, families and backpackers can get a large selection of cheap or low cost accommodation with plenty of low cost solutions in budget youth hostels, Bed and Breakfast, guesthouses, cheap hotel deals.

Flashbooking policy tends to privilege small and family-run hotels in order to promote an alternative tourism respectful of cultures and different societies.

So mates, we are looking forward to finding you THE budget accommodation that meets your needs and pocket for your next trip! Last but not least, if you wish to help us, you can either give your personal ratings of some accommodations, lodgings, bed and breakfast Barcelona, youth hostels and budget small hotels where you stayed, or enlarging the hostel offer by reporting some new hostel contacts!

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Spain on a Budget

International travelers are wary of traveling to Europe because of the perceived high cost of traveling there. Additionally, Spain is considered to take the cake as it is considered an ideal destination only for the cash rich. But this is only what it can be- a myth. You can travel to Spain even on a shoestring budget and find ways and means of great enjoyment there.

By far the cheapest way to see Spain is as a backpacker. And, backpack traveling is no longer the monopoly of college kids dragging their possessions on their back and sleeping in the park. Indeed, these days, individuals of all ages routinely backpack across Europe on a shoestring budget, and enjoy all the comforts. It is the best way to see more than the big cities and tourist traps. And, in Spain you need to interact with the people to get the feel of the place.

Instead of staying in luxury hotels, look at the other options. Many budget minded travelers choose to stay in hostels instead of hotels to save some cash. Remember, you are supposed to be exploring the country, not the inside of the hotel room so leave your lodging snobbery at home. Hostels are much like dormitories, where travelers share one large room with others. This is a great way to meet other travelers in addition to sticking to your budget. Consider bringing essentials like a sleep sack or shower shoes if you plan on staying in hostels, although most are clean.

Another great way to see Spain on a budget is travel on a tour. This is especially helpful for first time international visitors or those who are traveling with small children. Often times, these tours are all inclusive and are great for those on a budget. Check airline and travel websites for special deals that include lodging costs in addition to airfare and transportation. Also, see if any community groups are planning a trip overseas, as they often provide all inclusive tours for a great price.

For a longer holiday in Spain, it is best to rent an apartment; that will save you a great deal of money. You will find many furnished apartments and lofts available all over the country specifically for short term occupancy. You will not only save money but also have the freedom to cook your own food instead of eating out in restaurants.

When it comes to saving money before you go, check into special travel cards or deals that appeal to travelers of all ages. In fact, there are a great many specials available for students or youth in addition to families and seniors. Check out a travel card before you go to save the most money. Also, many Spanish cities have special cards that allow you to visit a variety of museums, galleries, and attractions for one price. Furthermore, look into purchasing block transportation cards instead of paying per trip, since it will save you a great deal of money in the long run.

Instead of renting a car in Spain, use the train system for transportation. Trains in Spain are clean and on time, allowing you to criss-cross the country quickly and easily. If you plan on doing a great deal of train travel, consider purchasing a country pass that will allow you unlimited travel for the period of the pass.

Anyone can enjoy a great trip to Spain and stick to their budget, no matter how restrictive it may be. Bring the entire family or travel by yourself to find the great culture and sights that Spain has to offer.

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Buying holiday property in Spain

Buying a holiday property in Spain, like buying a property in England, is most likely to be one of the biggest purchases we make in our life. Therefore, it is never advisable to be in too much of a hurry and rush into a deal without full consideration. It is well worth taking the time to look around your chosen area and make sure you have a clear picture of the relative prices and types of property available.

The Costa del Sol is a very popular region of Spain and life can be very different depending on which town you choose to live in. It is also well worth considering spending some time visiting the town of choice to see what amenities, nightlife and places of interest are available. Out of season, holiday resorts can appear very different with few people in the streets, deserted beaches, cold nights and occasional rain. Visiting at this time of year will help you to decide whether this is your ideal holiday destination. With Torrox and Nerja being voted as having the best climate in Europe, the weather is probably the one thing not to put you off living in Spain.

OFF-PLAN & RESALE PROPERTIES
Off-plan involves buying a property yet to be build either from an Estate Agent, or directly from a developer and is typically cheaper than purchasing a resale property. Another advantage of off-plan is that you usually have a say in some of the specifications, fittings, and possibly even the furnishings of the completed property. It is advisable to get a good Spanish lawyer to draw up a cast-iron contract and ensure the developer has obtained all the required licences, owns the land and there are no outstanding mortgages or loans on the property. This is especially important as all loans are taken out on the property itself rather than the owner of the property.

PROPERTY PURCHASE COSTS
The costs associated with a property purchase in Spain are around 10% of the property purchase price. If property values increase at an average of 3% per year, then it will take 3 years to recover the costs associated with buying. There are many fashionable areas in Spain whose properties have greatly benefited from the huge increase in foreign investors over the past 5 years pushing up prices considerably, but there are still bargains to be found.

SPANISH MORTGAGES
Typical loans that are available are 60% for non-residents and 80% for residents of the declared property value. Original documents must be shown when obtaining a mortgage that usually includes passport, driving licence, last 3 months pay slips and P60 for British people buying abroad.

INMOBILIARIAS (ESTATE AGENTS)
There are many Inmobiliarias in Spain that typically have many different types of property to view including apartments, villas, townhouses, fincas and rural properties. Commissions vary considerably and a typical value of 6% is not uncommon. It is a good idea to ensure that the Estate Agent you choose to buy a property from has a good reputation, is officially registered and holds a licence.

SPANISH LAW
When buying a property in Spain, it is important to check with the local Ayuntamiento (Town Hall) for debts, charges, mortgages and court orders as these are registered against the property and not the owner. If you purchase a property with outstanding debt, then this will be transferred to yourself. Within two months of signing the Escritura (Property Deeds), ownership must be registered with the local Town Hall within 2 months.

TAXES
Wealth Tax is charged annually at 0.2% for residents and 0.7% for non-residents of the value of the property. Residents also have the added benefit of the first 108,000 euros being exempt. Capital Gains Tax is charged on any profit you have made when you decide to sell your property. Residents are charged at the lower price of 20% as compared to 35% for non-residents. A further concession for residents is total exemption from Capital Gains Tax if aged over 65 and have lived in the property for at least 3 years.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
Above all, when purchasing a property in Spain ensure you get yourself a good Spanish Lawyer who is fluent in your language, and who knows the complexities of the Spanish buying process. The nearest UK Consular Office will supply a list of local Lawyers. Legal fees are typically 1-1.5% of the purchase price, but do agree on a price beforehand. The Lawyer should be able to warn of any potential problems, draw up an initial pre-sale contract, handle the customary 10% deposit and accompany you to see the Notary for final exchange of contracts.

A good Lawyer will ensure you end up with a property that is legally yours and free from financial debt. There are pitfalls with buying a property in any country, but by taking your time and doing a little local research, you should end up with your ideal place in the sun.

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Frigiliana on the Costa del Sol, Spain

The Spanish village of Frigiliana is situated in the foothills of the Almijara mountain range, just 5km inland from the popular holiday destination of Nerja. It is also within an hours drive from the International airport at Malaga in southern Spain. Because airline companies now offer competitive flights to Malaga from many destinations around Europe, the opportunity to visit some of Spain’s most idyllic and charming villages has become easier than ever.

Frigiliana is one such village: a delight to explore, full of history and offers unbeatable Spanish charm. It has been voted one of the prettiest towns in the province of Malaga and it is easy to see why. It enjoys spectacular views of both the Almijara Mountains that form a beautiful backdrop to the village, and also the enclosed valley all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea.

The village has all the delights expected of a traditional Andalucia town with cobbled streets winding through white washed houses, decorated with vibrant colours from seasonal plants and flowers in bloom. With only around 2,000 permanent residents, Frigiliana is surprisingly blessed with many bars, restaurants and shops. The town centre is filled with small traditional townhouses, interspersed with idyllic shops selling textiles, rugs, leather goods, tiles, and local wines. There are also several excellent shops selling local pottery and ceramics, including decorative plates with distinctive Arab design.

There are also choice bars and restaurants to be found, some offering fantastic views of the mountains or the Costa del Sol, and some to relax and take in Spanish life. All offer traditional Andalucia cuisine and a fine selection of tapas. For anyone who has not tried Spanish local cuisine, a selection of tapas offers the opportunity to try several small dishes at an affordable price.

The surrounding countryside is also ideal to explore by foot, with the close river valley boasting fantastic views of the hillside scenery towering above, and a spectacular waterfall cascading down the rocks during the winter season. Slightly further along the valley can be found a seating area surrounded with trees, a flowing river and perhaps views of local wildlife.

The road from Nerja on the Costa leads straight into the heart of the town, and on approaching there are ample parking spaces all the way up to the village. There is a car park itself but the twenty of so spaces on offer never appear to be available. There is a large children’s play park and a street map displaying some of the more interesting attractions around the village.

Steeped in history with archaeological finds dating back to 3000BC, Frigiliana has been inhabited by many different civilisations including the Romans, Phoenicians and the Arabs. The Arab occupation has left the greatest impact on the village with much of the original Moorish architecture still apparent.

During the 16th Century there were many battles between the Moors and Christians in Andalucia, which culminated with the final expulsion of the Arabs with the battle of the Rock of Frigiliana in 1569. This historical rebellion between the local Moriscos in the village and surrounding area, and a Christian army led from Nerja was a particularly violent battle that is still remembered today. This fascinating story is depicted with twelve ceramic plaques posted on the corners of streets to be found within the village.

The Moorish influence is apparent throughout the town, and best enjoyed walking through the narrow cobbled passageways leading to the Mudejar district, one of the best-preserved areas of Moorish architectures in Andalucia.

The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua was built in the 17th Century by Don Bernado de Godoy, and was restored in 1976. Built in the Renaissance style, many of the original frescos can still be seen throughout, and the church houses three 17th century paintings of excellent quality. The plaque outside the entrance tells the full story of the construction.

Other sites of interest include the former Granary that was built in 1767 and a 16th century Renaissance Palace that has now been turned into a molasses factory. Another example of the Moors occupation can be found at the very top of the town with the remains of a Moorish castle.

There are many festivals celebrated in Spain, and if you are lucky enough to be in the village during the festivities, you will see this sleepy Spanish town burst into life with celebrations involving the whole town and everyone lucky enough to be visiting. One of the best fiestas to experience is the Frigiliana bull-run. A smaller version than the one held in Pamplona, both in size of attractions and in size of bulls, but nonetheless no less exciting for those participating.

Frigiliana, like many of the towns in the Axarquía region, benefits from a microclimate that offers average temperatures of 18C, so even during the months of winter, temperatures are expected mild with many crisp, blue skies. With excellent views over the Axarquía region, and the slopes of the Almijara Nature Park, Frigiliana is an excellent place to visit, explore and finally to relax in one of the bars or restaurants to appreciate the scenery and culture of this beautiful region.

But there’s no need to take my word for it. Apart from receiving many regional awards, it earned its most cherished prize in 1982, with 1st place for beautification in the whole of Spain from the ministry of tourism.

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How to Manage Your Chronic Pain

If you're one of the many people that suffer from chronic pain you'll need all the help you can get for managing it successfully. Chronic pain is defined as pain that doesn't go away, unlike acute pain that will dissipate as the injury, or other medical condition, heals. After a long period of time of dealing with chronic pain it often becomes a combination of body and mind discomfort that is very painful for the individual.

There are several steps you can take to help you manage the chronic pain in your life. First, one of the most important things to do is discuss the situation with your doctor on a regular basis. You may be taking some kind of medication that your doctor approved, either prescribed or over the counter. If you find that the medication is diminishing in effectiveness over time, you need to let your doctor know so that he can help you find alternatives. It's essential to be in constant communication with your doctors.

Another important thing that you can do to manage your pain is to exercise as regularly as you can. No matter how much pain you're feeling there are some types of exercise that you can engage in. Exercise is crucial to helping you with the pain because it helps to remain flexible and toned. You need to be in as good shape as you can so that you handle the other physical problems that can be the result of chronic pain.

If you are considering trying any food supplements that promise relief from pain you should make sure that you research the product and discuss your findings with your doctor. There are many supplements on the market that claim to relieve pain that have not yet been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Don't fall into the trap of taking one of these supplements that either (1) have no effect on your pain, or (2) can cause complications with the prescribed medications that you are taking under your doctor's care.

Another beneficial technique may be to introduce some relaxation techniques into your daily routine. One activity in particular that is beneficial is Yoga. Yoga not only exercises the body but also strengthens and tones your body. Additional relaxation techniques include meditation, visualization, acupuncture, and acupressure.

These techniques provide relaxation for your whole body and teach you to breathe correctly. They help you in dealing with everyday stress and problems of your life.

Getting support, such as joining a support group for those people suffering from chronic pain, can be helpful to the pain management. By joining a group, you'll be able to talk with other people who are going through the same emotions and feelings that you are deal with everyday. By discussing your own experience, you not only help yourself by finding other people who understand what's happening in your life, but you also help other people who need to hear what you have to say.

You don't have to deal with chronic pain all by yourself. Ask family and friends to support you if there are some things that you just can't do for yourself. By being frank about what you're going through you'll feel less alone and able to cope.

There is quite a bit of reading material that can help you gain as much information that you need for dealing with your pain. The more information that you are about what is going on in your body, the better able you'll be to deal with the pain and tolerate the effects on your life from the result of this pain.

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Torrox on the Costa del Sol, Spain

It’s hard to spot Torrox on a map of Spain, even when you know roughly where you’re meant to be looking. This is because with a population of just a few thousand people, it’s never going to make a big impact on any map, but if you’re looking for a relaxing holiday on the Costa del Sol and a taste of some authentic Andalucia life, it may just be the destination of choice.

Torrox is found in the Spanish region of Andalucia located just 5km from the popular holiday resort of Nerja, and only 40km from the International airport at Malaga, making it ideally placed for travel around the region. The Sierra Nevada skiing resort near Granada can be reached within a 2-hour drive, as can the Rock of Gibraltar for those interested in visiting this wonderful corner of British history.

Torrox is split between Torrox Costa that lies on the Mediterranean coast and the inland village Torrox Pueblo located just 3km inland. Over the years both have been slowly migrating towards each other with the appearance of new properties and developments that follow the meandering road that connects the two. Both are quite different with the holiday attractions they offer, but together they provide the holiday visitor a good choice between beach activities and village life.

Torrox Pueblo is a whitewashed village that clings to the hillside like snow precariously hanging from a tree branch. It is how you would imagine a typical Andalucia village to be. Townhouses adorned with a dazzling array of flowering plants that follow narrow, winding streets with very few street names attached which if you’re not careful, will have you going round in circles trying to find your way back to where you started.

Much of the Pueblo has been carved with the influence of the Moorish occupation whose arrival in the 7th century brought with them new ways of agriculture, irrigation and land terracing which is still in existence today. Many of the Spanish still work the land producing many of the vegetables and exotic fruits you can find for sale outside the many small shops dotted throughout the village.

Around the village on various street corners can be found illustrated ceramic tiles depicting events of the Moorish occupation of the town. These are best found by taking the Almanzor Walk that begins from the Plaza de la Constitution and follows a route through the village taking in the main historical buildings. These include the baroque church of the Incarnacion, church of San Roque and chapel of Nuestra Senora de las Nieves, Mudejar in style and originating from the 16th century.

Details of the walk can be obtained from the small Tourist Information Office that can be found on Calle Baja, located just off the main square. Opening times are quite limited even during high season, but the best time to try is between 11am and 2pm midweek.

Life in Torrox Pueblo centres around the main Plaza de la Constitucion. The square is lined with vibrant orange trees and centred with an attractive water fountain. The sweet smell of Orange and relaxing sounds from the fountain add to the ambiance and tranquillity of the location. There is also a fine choice of bars and restaurants to choose from and some tasty local cuisine. By ordering a selection of tapas you have the opportunity to sample a wide range of local dishes at an excellent price. Life in the village is slow and relaxed and best appreciated here with good company.

Torrox Costa on the other hand offers a fine promenade lined with a good selection of bars, restaurants and souvenir shops that overlook a golden sandy beach. The only time it gets excessively busy here is during the month of August when it feels like all of Andalucia has come to the Costa to escape the fierce heat experienced further inland.

There are water activities available during the high season for those interested, and during the warm Summer evenings many stalls appear along the promenade selling a variety of goods including leather, textiles and ceramics.

Temperatures in Torrox soar during July, August and September to a very sticky 40C and more. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather with fantastic temperatures in the high 20s, remarkably consistent sunny days and a cool breeze that refreshes the air. Winter brings mostly sunny days which are fantastic for relaxing in a café bar looking over the Mediterranean Sea, but it does get remarkably chilly when the sun sets around 6pm. Snow never falls on the Costa del Sol. The closest you’ll get are the snow-tipped mountains of the Alpujara mountain range that provides a breathtaking backdrop to Torrox Pueblo as viewed from the Costa del Sol. It is no surprise Torrox has been voted as having the best climate in Europe.

Like all along the Costa del Sol, Torrox is a town constantly changing with the arrival of more and more tourists each year and a constant flow of English people wanting to find a better life outside of England. For such a small town so difficult to find on a map, it is certainly attracting a lot of attention.

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Murcia A Hidden Spanish Treasure

If you want to travel to an exciting and unique destination where you can enjoy everything from fabulous weather to fascinating sights – and without the noise of a high number of tourists – then Murcia could prove the ideal destination for you. This is an area that boasts everything you could want for an exciting, satisfying, and memorable vacation experience, and you will find plenty to see and do here, as well as plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind in the sun. With some great deals available on flights and hotel accommodations in Murcia, you won’t have to break the bank when you visit this destination. You can look forward to a full and diverse itinerary, with bags of history and culture to explore, as well as an array of entertainment, attractions, recreational facilities, and more, all within easy reach. Whether you are travelling alone, with a partner, or as part of a larger group or family, you will not be disappointed with your time in this area, and your can combine rest and relaxation with exploration, adventure, fun, and recreation.

Enjoy an array of sights and attractions

When you visit Murcia you can look forward to a wide choice of sights and attractions, so you can look forward to keeping busy and entertained throughout your time here. Enjoy a simple stroll around the city, and take in everything from the natural beauty to the historical architecture as you enjoy exploring the area on foot. If you enjoy delving into the past you will find some wonderful historical attractions to visit. Check out the array of museums in the area, which includes the Science Museum, the Cathedral Museum, the Religious Art Museum, and the Archaeological Museum. Enjoy visiting some wonderful historical buildings and churches, such as the fabulous cathedral, Santa Ana Church, and the Las Agustinas Monastery. Enjoy a trip to the Roman theatre, or enjoy spending time at the Murcian Market Garden. You will find some great shopping opportunities here too, so you can also satisfy the die hard shopper in you with a choice of facilities available.

Get some great deals on your holiday to this destination

Of course, we all love a bargain, and what better way to enjoy the delights of Murcia than through a wonderful vacation that doesn’t cost the earth. You can get some fabulous deals on flights and accommodations in this area, and the best way to find a really low cost deal is to utilize the power of the Internet. By going online to find your holiday bargains you can look forward to an excellent choice of deals, which increases your chances of finding just what you are looking for at a price that fits in with your budget. You can compare the different deals on offer with ease when you go online, and based upon your needs and your budget you can select the one that best suits you. What’s more, you can make your booking via the Internet as well, which means that you can save yourself time and hassle as well as money. With such huge savings available you can look forward to some extra spending money whilst you are in Murcia, as well as the convenience and ease of finding the perfect deal from the comfort of your own home.

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