Mexico Travel Information Site

Mexico Travel - Information Site For Travelers - by mexico_travel RSS | ATOM | FOAF OPERA COMMUNITY  Log in | Sign up Skip navigation . Mexico Travel Information Site For Travelers Blog Photo album Links About Mexico Travel: Mexican Cinema Wednesday, 28. December 2005, 06:10:06 Mexican Movies The history of Mexican cinema goes back to the beginning of the 20th century, when several enthusiasts of the new medium documented historical events most particularly the Mexican Revolution – and produced some movies that have been only recently been rediscovered. During the 1920s very few movies were produced, especially given the political climate that was still very unsettled. In the 1930s, once peace and a degree of political stability were achieved, cinematography took off in Mexico and several movies still experimenting with the nascent medium were done. It is important to notice how early Mexican cinematographers were influenced and encouraged by Sergei Eisenstein's visit to the country. During the 1940s the full potential of the industry developed. Actors, actresses, and directors became popular icons and even figures with political influence on diverse spheres of Mexican life. The industry received a boost as a consequence of Hollywood redirecting its efforts towards propagandistic films, which left an open field for other industries. Mexico dominated the film market in Latin America for most of the 1940s without competition from the United States film industry. The golden era of Mexican cinema took place during the 1940s. Actors like Pedro Infante, Jorge Negrete, Cantinflas, Joaquin Pardave, María Felix, and Dolores del Rio gained recognition. Gabriel Figueroa became an internationally acclaimed cinematographer and Emilio Fernandez and Luis Bunuel directed some of Mexico's most important movies. During 1990s the era of the Nuevo Cine Mexicano took place with high quality films by Arturo Ripstein, Alfonso Arau, Alfonso Cuaron and Maria Novaro. The most famous films produced at this time were Como Agua Para Chocolate (Like Water for Chocolate) and Sexo, Pudor y Lagrimas. Comments (0) Travel Mexico: Mexican Baby Names Tuesday, 27. December 2005, 08:40:37 Mexican Name Keep in mind that these names come from various parts of the country and can be derived from different cultures. The spellings and meaning may vary slightly from region to region - check with your family or other resources if this is important in naming your child. Mexican Baby Boy Names - Antonio - Carlos - Cesar - Crespin - Cruz - Daniel - DeMario - Doroteo - Eber - Elbanco - Eleazar - Elieis - Emilio - Enrique - Enriqueta - Ernesto - Eru - Erubiel - Felix - Filiberto - Flaco - Francisco - Gabriel - Graciano - Hector - Heraclio - Humberto - Ignacio - Isdel - Isidoro - Ivan - Izek - Jaimenacho - Jarini - Javier - Jesus-Ernesto - Jesus - Joel - Jorge - Jose - Juan-Carlos - Juan - Juaquine - Kasper Mexican Baby Girl Names - Beatriz - Berenice - Bertha - Cecilia - Christina - Cierra - Crotilda - Dominga - Dora - Elodia - Elsa - Elvia - Encarnacion - Erendira - Esmeralda - Eufemia - Eva-Yolanda - Flaca - Gabriela - Geavonna - Graciela - Grizelda - Guadalupe - Guliana - Hilda - Inez - Irma - Ivonne - Juana - Juanita - Katia - Katiana - Kristina - Leahonia - Leandra - Leticia - Lilia - Liliana - Manuela - Maria - Maricruz - Marilu - Marlina - Martha - Materia - Michaela - Michelle - Miranda - Myra - Nailea - Ofelia - Olademis - Pasha - Patricia Cheers.... Comments (0) Mexico Travel: About Its Music Monday, 26. December 2005, 07:36:25 Mexico Music The music of Mexico is extraordinarily diverse and features a wide range of different musical styles. The most well known Mexican genre by far is mariachi, a style of traditional Mexican son which is considered old-fashioned but respected traditional music and is usually listened to as modern music. Mexican ranchera the ranchera is a type of Mexican song. Although closely associated with the Mexican mariachi groups which evolved in Jalisco in the post-revolutionary period. (country music) styles, including norteno and banda, are not only popular within Mexico itself, but they are also frequently enjoyed by Mexican immigrants in both rural and urban American communities. Norteno, similar to Tejano music and Tex-Mex , which may refer to:, arose in the 1930s and 40s in the Rio Grande border region of southern Texas. Influenced by Bohemian immigrant miners, its rhythm was derived from the European polka dance popular during the 1800s Banda, similar to norteno in musical form, originated from the Mexico state of Sinaloa during the 1960s. Other new styles such as cumbia, pop. , and rock have seen increased popularity as the music of Mexico faces a new generation of young people. Southern Mexican folk music is centered around the marimba, which remains popular in Chiapas and Oaxaca. In Yucatan the traditional Jarana music and dance is popular. Modern Mexican musical styles are also changing Mexican music. Cumbia, pop, hip-hop, and rock, which are heavily influenced by music from the Caribbean islands and the United States, are increasingly becoming popular among Mexican youths on both sides of the border good link: Made in Mexico Comments (0) Transport in Mexico Saturday, 24. December 2005, 10:51:18 Mexico Transport Mexico The United Mexican States or Mexico 's land transportation network is one of the most extensive in Latin America. More than 4,000 kilometers (2,400 mi.) of four-lane highway have been built through government concessions to private sector contractors since 1989, of which 3,500 kilometers (2,100 miles) have been constructed since 1994. The vast majority of these expressways are toll roads, like in most other developing countries. (Originally awarded under Build-Operate-Transfer concession schemes, most of these private highways have since been "rescued" by central government financial intervention to save the operators from bankruptcy.) The 26,622 km (16,268 mi.) of government-owned railroads in Mexico have been privatized through the sale of 50-year operating concessions. In the 1980s and 1990s, the government allowed the private operators to abandon nearly all passenger rail service. A plethora of private intercity bus lines serve the nation. Passenger rail service to the Copper Canyon region still operates, due to the remote nature of the area and tourist ridership. Tampico, Tamaulipas, and Veracruz , on the Gulf of Mexico, are Mexico's two primary seaports. Recognizing that the low productivity of Mexico's 108 ports poses a threat to trade development, the government has steadily been privatizing port operations to improve their efficiency. A number of international airlines serve Mexico, with direct or connecting flights from most major cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, Japan, and Latin America. Most Mexican regional capitals and resorts have direct air services to Mexico City or the United States. Airport privatization, based on Mexico's successful experience with seaports, is nearly complete. Comments (0) Important DaysTo Remember Friday, 23. December 2005, 08:34:45 holidays Mexico * 1st Jan: Ano nuevo (mexican name) - New Year (english name) - New Year's day * 5th Feb : Dia de la Constitucion - Constitution Day - Celebrates the ratification of the Constitution of 1917, adopted after the Mexican Revolution. * 18th Mar: Expropiacion Petrolera - Oil Expropriation - President Lazaro expropriated foreign-held oil wells to facilitate Mexico's industrial development * 21st Mar: Natalicio de Benito Juarez - Benito Juarez's Birthday - Birthday of Benito Juarez president and statesman who stood against the French occupation * 1st May: Dia del Trabajo - Labour Day - Commemorates the Haymarket Riot of 1886 * 5th May: Batalla de Puebla - Cinco De Mayo - Celebrates the victory against French forces in the city of Puebla. (not an official holiday) It is also widely celebrated in the United States among Mexican-Americans. * 16th Sep: Dia de la Independencia - Independence Day - Celebrates the Grito de Dolores an event that marked the start of the independence war against Spain on the eve of 1810 * 12th Oct: Dia de la Raza - Day of the Race - Commemorates the discovery of America in 1492 by the Italian navigator Christopher Columbus, who was sponsored by the Spanish sovereigns, Isabella of Castille and Ferdinand of Aragon. * 2nd Nov: Dia de los Muertos - Day of the Dead - Mexicans honour their dead relatives and/or friends with candles, food offerings, altars and pre-Hispanic rituals. * 20th Nov: Dia de la Revolucion - Revolution Day - Celebrates the beginning of the Mexican Revloution in 1910 * 12th Dec: Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe - Day of virgin Guadalupe - Celebrates the day that our lady of Guadalupe appeared on Tepeyac hill to the native. * 25th Dec: Navidad - Christmas - Celebrates the nativity of Jesus also celebrated as secular winter holiday Comments (0) Mexico Travel: Religion Thursday, 22. December 2005, 07:27:08 Mexico Religion Mexico is predominantly Roman Catholic (about 89% of the population), with 6% adhering to various Protestant faiths (mostly Pentecostal), and the remaining 5% of the population adhering to other religions or professing no religion. Some of the country's Catholics (notably those of indigenous background) syncretize Catholicism with various elements of Aztec or Mayan religions. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism) enjoys a growing presence in the major border cities of northeastern Mexico. Judaism has been practiced in Mexico for centuries, and there are estimated to be 100,000 Jews in Mexico today. Islam is mainly practiced by members of the Arab, Turkish, and other expatriate communities; Mexico's indigenous Muslims number only a few thousand or less, although recent years have seen some growth of Islam in Chiapas. Comments (0) Mexico States and Cities Wednesday, 21. December 2005, 21:37:23 Mexico City Mexico is divided into 31 states (estados) and a federal district. Each state has its own constitution and its citizens elect a governor as well as representatives to their respective state congresses. 1.Aguascalientes 2.Baja California 3.Baja California Sur 4.Campeche 5.Chiapas 6.Chihuahua 7.Coahuila 8.Colima 9.Durango 10.Guanajuato 11.Guerrero 12.Hidalgo 13.Jalisco 14.Mexico 15.Michoacan 16.Morelos 17.Nayarit 18.Nuevo Leon 19.Oaxaca 20.Puebla 21.Queretaro 22.Quintana Roo 23.San Luis Potosi 24.Sinaloa 25.Sonora 26.Tabasco 27.Tamaulipas 28.Tlaxcala 29.Veracruz 30.Yucatan 31.Zacatecas Distrito Federal The following is a list of the biggest Metropolitan Areas of Mexico in order of population: * Mexico City * Guadalajara, Jalisco * Monterrey, Nuevo Leon * Puebla, Puebla * Tijuana, Baja California * Leon, Guanajuato * Toluca, Mexico * Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua * Torreon, Coahuila Comments (0) Mexican Jokes Wednesday, 21. December 2005, 10:16:21 Mexican Jokes » The American investment banker was at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellow fin tuna. The American complimented the Mexican on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them. The Mexican replied, "Only a little while." The American then asked, "Why didn't you stay out longer and catch more fish?" The Mexican said, "With this I have more than enough to support my family's needs." The American then asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?" The Mexican fisherman said, "I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take siesta with my wife, Maria, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my amigos, I have a full and busy life." The American scoffed, "I am a Harvard MBA and could help you. You should spend more time fishing; and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat: With the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats. Eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman you would sell directly to the processor; eventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing and distribution. You would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City, then Los Angeles and eventually New York where you will run your ever-expanding enterprise." The Mexican fisherman asked, "But, how long will this all take?" To which the American replied, "15 to 20 years." "But what then?" asked the Mexican. The American laughed and said that's the best part. "When the time is right you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public and become very rich, you would make millions." "Millions?...Then what?" The American said, "Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your amigos." » There was a German, an American, and a Mexican. They were walking in the woods. Suddenly a heard of buffalo came at them. They ran and ran until they saw a shack and went in it. 2 days later the buffalo left. The men got out of the shack only to find layers of crap everywhere! They were forced to jump in because there was no way out. The German took a leap and said, " It's not bad, it's only up to my waist. " The American took a leap and said, " It's not bad, it's only up to my knees. " Then the Mexican took a leap and said, " It's not bad, it's only up to my ankles. " The American asked, " How did you do that. " The Mexican replied in a muffled voice, I jumped in head first. » What kind of cans are there in Mexico? Mexicans. Comments (0) Mexico Travel: Currency Converter Tuesday, 20. December 2005, 07:57:15 » Currency Converter, where you can convert to and from major foreign currencies. Can't keep all those rates in your head? Create a wallet-sized currency cheat sheet to take with you on your trip. Please select the currencies you'd like to use for your exchange from below. Then choose the category of conversion results you would like to see; Select the Convert Currency button once you have made your selections. Links Travel Calculator & Currency Converter » GCI Trading » X-Rates » Yahoo Finance These sites are reliable and offers free but accurate currency conversion tools or calculators. Tourists or Travellers can use these calculators to see the latest currency conversions. Enjoy your Mexico trip. Comments (0) About Mexico Friday, 9. December 2005, 07:33:56 The United Mexican States or Mexico is a country located in North America, bordered to the north by the United States , to the south-east by Guatemala and Belize , to the west by the Pacific Ocean and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. » It is the most northerly and most westerly,and third largest country, in Latin America and is at the same time the most populated Spanish-speaking country. Mexico is divided into 31 states (estados) and the Mexican Federal District (Distrito Federal). The Mexico City Metropolitan Area, which includes the Federal District and adjacent parts of México State , is one of the most populous cities in the world. » Capital : Mexico City » Language : English & French » Currency : Mexican Peso » National anthem : Mexicanos, al grito de guerra source: Travel World ................................ The culture of Mexico reflects the complexity of Mexico 's history through the blending of Pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican civilizations and the culture of Spain , imparted during Spain 's 300 year colonization of Mexico. » In Mexican culture, it is usually considered undesirable to show weakness or open oneself to others outside of the family. As a result, a strong sense of community is not a trait of Mexican culture, because strong friendships cannot be built without some level of closeness. Relationships are generally approached with a gauge of disbelieve because of fear of betrayal, which for a Mexican is one of the most humiliating experiences one could go through. » Mexico is known worldwide for its folk art traditions, mostly derived from a combination of indigenous and Spanish crafts. Mainly distinguished among handicrafts are the clay pottery made in the valley of Oaxaca and the bird and animal figures made in the village of Tomala . Colorfully embroidered cotton garments, cotton or wool shawls and outer garments, and colorful baskets and rugs are seen everywhere. » With an estimated 2003 population of about 104 million, Mexico is the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world. Nominally, the country is predominantly Roman Catholic (89%), with 6% adhering to various Protestant faiths and the remaining 5% either adhering to other smaller religions or remaining unaffiliated. | U s e f u l L i n k s :- » Mexican - Embassy » Ancient Mexico .......................................... Mexico Hotels » Hotels differ from motels in that most motels have drive-up, exterior entrances to the rooms, while hotels tend to have halls with interior entrances to the rooms. The cost and quality of hotels are usually relatively indicative of the range and type of services available. Due to the enormous increase in tourism worldwide. » Basic accommodation consisting of a room with a bed, a cupboard, a small table and a washstand only have largely been replaced by rooms with bathrooms. Other features many travelers do not want to do without today are a TV, a telephone, an alarm clock, a small refrigerator. » Mexico hotels. The cost and quality of hotels are usually relatively indicative of the range and type of services available. Due to the enormous increase in tourism worldwide, during the last decades of the 20th century common standards, especially those of smaller sstablishments have improved considerably. For the sake of greater comparability, various rating systems have been introduced, with the one to five stars classification being the most commonly used. | Top Mexico Hotels » Hotels of Mexico » Andale Mexico » Different World » Planet Holiday » Trip Advisor » Mexico Travel Net ............................ Mexico Restaurants A restaurant is a business that serves ready food and beverages to be consumed on the location. The term covers a variety of scene and a range of cuisine styles. Restaurants are sometimes a feature of a larger complex.There exist many likely businesses for restaurants, depending on local traditions and the procedure and price of the meal; *0ne sits down, a waiter comes to take one's order, and later brings the food; one pays after finishing eating *0ne orders at the counter; after preparation the food is brought to one's table; paying may be on ordering or after eating *0ne collects ready portions » Mexico restaurants range from unpretentious lunching or dining places catering to people working nearby, with simple food served in simple settings at low prices, to expensive establishments serving refined food and wines in a formal setting. In the former case, clients are not expected to wear formal attire. In the latter case, clients generally wear formal clothing, though this varies between cultures. | Top Mexico Restaurants » Cancun Blast » Appetite Net » Mexico Resturants » Citi-Guide ...................................... Mexico: Climate & Weather Mexico 's climate is less uneven and warmer. The key aspect in Mexico 's climate variation is that of its geography. Bordering the Gulf of Mexico are lowlands characterized by hotter, more humid climate than the higher elevations of the country. » Mexico has distinct wet and dry seasons. Nearly all of the country experiences a rainy season from June to mid-October and notably less rain during the rest of the year. February and July generally are the driest and wettest months. Mexico City , for example, receives an average of only 5 millimeters of rain during February but more than 160 millimeters in July. Coastal areas, especially those along the Gulf of Mexico , experience the largest amounts of rain in September. | Role Of Mexico Climate - Gulf of Mexico will provide insight into the role of tropical climate system on global climate. » Rainfall varies widely both by location and season. Arid or semiarid conditions are encountered in the Baja Peninsula, the northwestern state of Sonora, the northern altiplano, and significant portions of the southern altiplano. » Mexico faces noteworthy ecological threats upsetting almost every section of the country. Vast expanses of southern and southeastern tropical forests have been striped for cattle raising and agriculture. » Mexico's vast coastline faces a different, but no less difficult, series of environmental problems. | For Latest Mexico Weather Updates; » M e x i c o W e a t h e r » M e x O n l i n e .................................... Mexico Heritage Mexico is most prominent to tourists for its many prehistoric ruins, popular beach resorts, generally warm-to-hot climate, and unique culture. Tourism in Mexico peaks during December and mid-summer. A one hour drive to the northeast of Ruta Puuc are the surviving remains of the city of Mayapan . This settlement was controlled by Chichen Itza to the east, now a large archaeological site with many interesting ruins. » The central and southern parts of Mexico was host to several pre-Hispanic civilizations, with the most prominent being the Aztec, Mayan , and the Olmec. There are numerous tourist destinations where these ruins can be viewed. Along the gulf coast area in the state of Veracruz are more archaeological sites, with the Olmec ceremonial center of Tres Zapotes, the ruins of the large Totonac city of Zempoala , and the ruins of El Tajín with the Pyramid of the Niches. The city of Xalapa contains the Museo de Antropología, a notable museum featuring a collection of massive Olmec head sculptures. » Moving to the north, the central region about Mexico City contains several archeological sites. To the southwest are the massive ruins of Teotihuacán , including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl . To the southeast near the city of Cholula is the Great Pyramid, visible from the city center. Just to the north of Cholula are the well-preserved ruins of Cacaxtla city. | Mexico Heritage Resources » Travel Mexico » Our Mexico » Mexico Expo » World Heritage your comments @ Travel T World Comments (1) Showing posts 1 - 10. 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Italy Travel Tips Terms

Italy Tours, Italy Vacation, Italy tour, Italy Vacations, Italy Tour Operator Book Online or call (800) 682-3333 Europe Asia Americas Caribbean Mediterranean Pacific Cruises Home Hotels Find a Vacation Specials Contact Us Italy & Sicily Spain & Portugal Britain & Ireland France Belgium & Holland Central Europe Scandinavia Greece River Cruises China & Japan Southeast Asia Thailand India South America Brazil Peru Costa Rica Bahamas Caribbean & Mexico Bahamas Cancun Riviera Maya Punta Cana Jamaica Greece & Turkey Israel Egypt Morocco Australia & New Zealand Tahiti China & Japan Southeast Asia Sea Cruises River Cruises Italy Tours and Italy Vacations: Book an Italy tour with Gate 1 Travel, the premier provider of Italy vacations. We have Italy tours, travel packages, and Italy vacations to suit your travel time and budget. Italian vacations, honeymoon packages, group vacations, bus tours, flight, hotel and rail travel packages are several of the many Italy vacations possible. 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Travel Insurance - so

Travel Insurance New Zealand : International Travel Insurance Travel insurance covering world wide travel in 44 countries including NZ at discounted rates using World Nomads Travel Insurance - so obtain a travel insurance quote today. View more information on New Zealand travel insurance below. New Zealand Tourism Online Visitor Info Transport Tours Attractions Accommodation New Zealand Time: 11:48 AM, Thu 29 Dec, 2005 Home Home » Travel Insurance New Zealand Travel Insurance Underwritten by Allianz, World Nomads offers low cost travel insurance in over 44 countries. With genuine 24/7 assistance anywhere on the planet provided by Mondial Assistance, the world's largest travel insurance and assistance company, and online claims and extensions from anywhere in the world while you are still away, World Nomads offers some of the best travel insurance in the world today. 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Spain Travel

Spain Geography History Politics Culture Transportation Lodging Restaurants Museums and Monuments Nightlife Currency 1. Geography Spain lies in the extreme southwest of Europe, between latitude 36* and 44* north and betweenlongitude 9* west and 5* east. It is bounded by France and the tiny state of Andorra on the west and northwest by Portugal and on the south by the British territory of Gibralter, which is claimed by Spain. The Atlantic ocean is to Spain's north (Bay of Biscay), northwest and southwest (Gulf of Cadiz) to the west of the Straits of Gibralter, only 14 km/9 miles wide, which separate Europe from Africa. The entire eastern and southeastern Spain is bounded by the Mediterranean. Also, part of Spain are the BalearicIslands (Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera and various smaller islands), which lie off the Mediterraneancoast and the Canary Islands (the largest of which are Gran Canaria and Tenerife) off the northwest coast of Africa. The towns of Ceuta and Melilla on the North African mainland and the three small islands ofPenonde Velez, Alhucemas and Chafarinas off the Moroccan coast also belong to Spain (but are claimed by Morocco). The Straits of Gibralter link Spain with Africa. In addition, the Pyrenees in the north have been both geographically and historically, a barrier between Spain and the rest of Europe. Spain lies predominately within the zone of the Mediterranean climate which is characterized by hot,dry summers and mild, wet winters. When to Visit Spain The best time of year to come is in the Spring and Autumn from about mid-March to the beginning of June and from the beginning of September to the beginning of November (in Northern Spain to the beginningof October). 2. History SPAIN AS A WORLD POWER TO THE PENINSULAR WAR (1516-1813): Spain rises to international importance in the 16th century in expansion of its territory in Europeand colonies and is the Center of Counter Reformation. 1618-1648: Spain takes part in the Thirty Years' War on the side of the Austrian Habsburgs. 1640: Portugal dissolves its union with Spain. FROM THE FIRST WORLD WAR TO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE SECOND REPUBLIC (1914-1931): 1914-1919: Spain remains neutral in the First World War. 1926: Spain leaves the League of Nations. 1928: Spain is readmitted into the League of Nations. 1931: After a Republican victory in local government elections, Alfonso XIII leaves the country. It's the beginning of the Second Republic. FROM THE SECOND REPUBLIC TO APPLIED ASSOCIATION WITH THE UN (1931-1962): Because various European democracies would not help the new Spanish Republic, not even the SovietUnion believed that Spain was ready for a social revolution. The Republican forces are defeated by the Fascist dictatorship of General Franco with the support from Hitler and Mussolini. After the Second World War, the Franco regime is unable to lead Spain out of its political and economic isolation. Only after Franco's death does liberalization and democratization appear in the country. 1931: Spain receives a new constitution: liberal and progressive in its provisions, separationof church and state, a unified state, regional self-government for Catalonia (1932) and the Basque country(1936) and a limited degree of land reform. 1936-1939: The Spanish Civil War breaks out after the murder of a Monarchist member of Parliament, Calvo Sotelo on July 13 and a military rising on July 17 led by General Francisco y Bahamonde (1892-1975) in Spanish Morocco. 1939: Recognition of Franco's Regime by France, Britain (February 27) and US (April 1). CivilWar comes to an end. Spain leaves the League of Nations. From 1945: Spain is politically and economically isolated as a result of Franco'sauthoritarian regime. It is not a founding member of the United Nations and receives no aid under the MarshallPlan. 1955: Spain becomes a member of the UN. 1959-1960: Spain becomes a member of the OEEC and OECD. 1962: Spain applies for association with the European Community. DEMOCRATIC SPAIN (from 1975-1992): After Franco's death, King Juan Carlos I begins the process of democratization, which continues inspite of attempted coups. Spain becomes a full member of the democratic community of states. 1978: Spain joins the Council of Europe on February 24. 1980: A law of freedom of religion comes into force: Catholicism is no longer the State religion. 1982: Spain becomes the 16th member of NATO on May 30. 1986: Spain joins the European Community on January 1. 1989: Spain takes over the presidency of the European Community. 1992: On July 25, the Summer Olympic Games of modern times are opened in Barcelona. 3. Politics The Constitution: The constitution which came into force in December 1978 makes Spain a parliamentary monarchy committed to the principles of a democratic social state founded on law. The King as head of State has the duties of watching over the government and representing Spain in its relations with other nations. Moreover, he is the supreme commander of the armed forces. The constitution contains a code of basicrights, the establishment of the social state, the assurance of security under the law, the recognition of the role of the parties in developing an informed political opinion, the right to refuse military service, the abolition of the death penalty (except under military law) and the end of Roman Catholicism as the statereligion. Coat of Arms: The flag of Spain is red and yellow, which has been the Spanish colors since medieval times. The coat of arms consists of a shield of four quarters bearing the emblems of Castile, Leon, Aragon, Navarre and Granada. The shield is flanked by the "Pillars of Hercules," which in ancient tradition market the end of the world and are usually identified as the Straits of Gibralter. Along with the motto, "Plus ultra" on an encircling ribbon, they symbolize the history of Spain as a world and maritime power. Parliament: The Spanish Parliament is the Cortes Generales, with two houses, the Congress de los Diputados (Congress of Deputies) and the Senate. The Congress is elected every four years and has a minimum of 300 members anda maximum of 400 members. The electoral system is a melange of direct election and proportional representaion. The deputies elect the prime minister, who is then appointed by the King. A special feature of the parliamentary system is that the prime minister can be voted out of office by the Congress only ifthey elect a successor at the same time. The Senate prepresents the Autonomous Communities (regions), which consist of one or moreprovinces. Each province elects four senators and in addition the parliaments of the autonomouscommunitites elect one senator each, plus additional senators for each million inhabitants. The Senate hasa right to veto on the government. International Relations: Spain has been a member of the UN since 1955, of NATO since 1982 and the European Communitysince 1986. She also maintains close relations with many Latin American states and is a permamentmember of the Organization of American States (OAS)(34). 4. Culture Language: Spanish. It may be usefult to have some acquaintance with the language or know at least a few useful expressions to make your trip a little easier. A Few Important Expressions: Good morning: Buenos Dias Good bye: Adios Yes/No: Si/No Please: Por favor Thank you (very much): (Muchas) gracias Your Welcome: De nada Excuse me: Perdon Do you speak English?: Habla Usted ingles? A little, not much: Un poco I do not understand: No entiendo What is Spanish for. . .?: Como se dici en espanol. . .? To the right/left: A la derecha, izquierda. Straight ahead: Siempre derecho. Business Hours: Banks are open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm and Saturday from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or 5:30 pm. Restaurants are open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and at dinner time, they reopen at 9:00 pm and stays open to about11:30 pm or midnight. Major stores are open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. Smaller stores take a siesta. They are normally open from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and then reopen at 4:40 pm to 8:00 pm. However,be aware that these hours may vary from store to store. Electricity : Most establishments have 220 volts AC. Some older places however have 110 or 125 volts. Make sureto carry an adapter with you. It's best to carry battery operated equipment. Liquor Laws : The legal drinking age in Spain is 18. Bars, taverns and cafeterias usually open at 8:00 am and many serve alcohol until 1:30 or later. Generally, you can purchase alcohol in any market. Mail: Airmail letters to the U.S. and Canada will cost you 87 pesetas (70 cents) up to15 grams. Tipping: A service charge is included in most restaurant bills. It's usually around 15%. You might want to adda few pesetas to the bill however. 5. Transportation Travellers need a legal passport or visa to enter and leave Spain. A passport will allow a visitor tostay for 90 days if you are a US, Canadian or New Zealand citizen. Australians and South Africans mustobtain a visa to enter Spain. Airports: Airports in Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga handle most international flights. Rental Cars: Rental cars cost a lot less in Spain than other European countries. Be aware however that you mustbe over 21 and have had your drivers license for at least one year to rent a car. MADRID: Bus: The busses in Madrid are quite clean. It costs 130 pesetas per ride. However, if you plan on takingthe bus a lot during your stay, you might be interested in purchasing a 10 ride ticket (billete de diez) for645 pesetas. BARCELONA: Metro: A ride on the metro will cost around 680 pesetas and a ten ride pass will cost around 700pesetas. The metro is open Monday to Thursday from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from5:00 am to 1:am, Sunday from 6:00 am to 12:00 am. Bus: A ride on the bus will also cost 680 pesetas and a ten rid pass will cost around 700 pesetas. Dailybuses and night buses service the city from 11:00 pm until 4:00 am. 6. Lodging SEVILLE: Hostels: Sevilla Youth Hostel(HI): , C. Issac Peral, 2. (tel. 461 31 54) It is currently being renovated andwill beclosed until Semana Santa in 1997. Ask a tourist office when it will be reopened. Hostal Paris: , C. San Pedro Martir. (tel. 422 98 61 or 421 96 45, fax. 421 96 45). It's brand newand clean! There's a bath, air conditioning, phone and TV. It's extremely comfortable and at extremelycomfortable prices too! Singles are 3500 pesetas, doubles are 5000 pesetas. Ask about student discounts. Camping: Camping Sevilla, Ctra. Madrid-Ca diz, km 534. (tel. 451 43 79). It's close to the airport and just 12 km away from town. From Estacion Prado de San Sebastian, take bus #70 which stops at Parque Alcosa. Here, you'll find showers, a supermarket and a swimming pool. It's 450 pesetas per person, percar and per tent. Children are only 350 pesetas. BARCELONA: If you arrive in Barelona without a hotel reservation, there are offices at the airporst and at Estacio-Sants(daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm) that will book a place for you to stay for a fee of approximately 100pesetas. The only glich is that you won't have the opportunity to see the room beforehand. For furtherinformation, contact the Barcelona Hotels Association, Via Laietana 47; (tel. 301-62-40). Be aware however, that Barcelona is packed with tourists between the months of July and August soit's wise to book a room ahead of time. It's important to make sure that you see your room before paying for it. Hostels: Continental , Barri Gotic (tel. 93/301-2570, fax. 93/302-7360) There are 35 rooms at the hostel.American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. There are canopied balconiesand the rooms feel like the comforts of home. Convenient location and in the villa (old quarter).Although thereare lots of police patrolling the area, make sure that you hold onto your possessions. Great breakfast buffet. Hostal Terrassa, Junta de Comerc 11. Metro: Liceu. (tel. 302 51 74, fax. 301 21 88). Pricesrun: singles at 1750 pesetas, doubles n/a and triples are 4000 pesetas.Showers are 500 pesetas.Call ahead of time to reserve a room. Hotels for Disabled Travelers: While there are accomodations available for disabled travelers, the hotels tend to be on the moreexpensive side. Here are a couple of places to try: (1) Hotel Balmoral, Via Augusta 5. (tel. 217-87 00, fax. 415 14 21). (2) Hotel Gran Via, Gran Via de les Corts Catalones. (tel. 642 318 19 00, fax. 318 99 97).It's a 19th century mansion and all rooms are with a bath. There's a breakfast room and parking for a fee.American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. Hotels: (1)Meson Castilla Barcelona. (tel. 93/318 21 82). It's in the heart of Barcelona, reasonably priced,well managed with comfortable rooms with large terraces. Breakfast is the only meal that is served.However, checkout the nearby taverns where there is excellent food. (2)Valldoneeella, 508002 (fax. 93/412 40 20). Here you can find 56 rooms with air conditioning. It costs9,500 pesetas ($76) for a double room and parking is 1,500 pesetas ($12). MADRID: Hotels: Pension Luz, C. Fuentes, 10 3rd floor. (tel. 542 07 59). Metro: Sol. There are communalbathrooms and no elevators. However, it's a very nice building with sunny rooms. Singles are 2000pesetas, doubles are 3500 pesetas and doubles which have been converted into triples are 4200 pesetas. Hostels: Valencia , Gran Bia 44 (5th floor) 28013. Metro: Callao or Gran Via. (tel. 91/522 11 15). Thereare 30 rooms all with bath. It's a favorite for North American travellers. Single rooms run for 3,900 pesetas($30), doubles 5,700 pesetas ($43.85) and triples are 7,000 pesetas ($53.85). Master Card and Visa are both accepted. A phone call at the hostel will run you about 3,900 pesetas. Also, there's an elevator foryour convenience!!! Riosol , Calle Mayor 5 (2nd floor) 28013. Metro: Sol. (tel. /91 532 31 42). There are 12 rooms witha shower or tub. A single with a shower will run you approximately 2.800 pesetas ($21.55), a single witha tub is 3,300 pesetas ($25.40), 4,000 pesetas (30.75) for a double with a shower and 4,400 pesetas ($33.85) for a double with a tub. Credit cards are not accepted. Riosol has 2 floors with clean renovated rooms. Although the tubs are small, they're in the room! Prices are also actually lower than posted so inquire within. Albergue Juvenil Santa Cruz de Marcenado (HI) , Santa Cruz de Marcenada 28, 28015. Metro:Arguelles. (tel. 91/547 45 32, fax. 548 11 96).). There are 72 beds here. It's 900 pesetas ($7.50) per person per night for members 26 and under and 1,200 pesetas ($10) for members over 26 years of age.Credit cards are not accepted. Make sure to make reservations in advance because they book up ratherquickly. They require an International Youth Hostel Card which will cost you about 1,800 pesetas ($15).Also, there's a 1:30 am curfew and lights must be out at 2:00 am..Reception is open daily from 9:00 am to10:30 pm. 7. Restaurants Mealtimes: The Spaniards eat lunch at about 2:00pm and in the evening around 10:00pm. In restaurants, lunch is served from 1:00pm to 3:30pm and dinner from 9:00pm to 11:00 or 11:30pm. Meals: Breakfast (desayuno) in Spain is rather simple and is usually taken in a bar. It consists of a cup of coffee and toast or a small cake, or, particularly in the south, churros, deep fried donuts. Hotels in the tourist resorts cater to foreign visitors so will most likely offer a more substanital breakfast or buffet. Lunch (almuerzo) and dinner (cena) are more substantial and the Spaniards like to linger over these meals. Both meals consist of 3 or 4 courses. The tourist menu (menu del dra) is usually a better value than eating a la carte. Spanish Cuisine: Spanish cooking uses an abundance of garlic and olive oil. Egg dishes, rice, seafood and stews arealso typical throughout the country. Restaurant Hours of Operation: Restaurants serve lunch between approximately 1:30pm and 3:30pm and dinner usually from 9:00pm to 11:00 or 11:30pm. For those who prefer something light in the evening, there are the tascas bars which serve a variety of appetizing foods with drinks. RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN MADRID: In Madrid, there is food on every block. Calles Echegaray, Ventura de la Vega and Manuel FernandezGonzalez are the cheapest areas to find food: (1) La Tarterie, C. Cardenal Cisneros, 24;Metro Biebao; (tel. 447 05 54). If you like art, this is the place to be! Come see some of the temporary exhibits and while you're at it, snack on some of their great quiche and salads. Prices run about 650 pesetas and pizza is 775-1000 pesetas. (2) Taberna D'a Quimada, C. Echegaray, 17; (tel. 429 32 63). A restaurant where you can actually seethe sights! Lots of knicknacks from all over Spain. Prices run about 975 pesetas and entrees run between800 to 1500 pesetas. (1) Nabucco, Hortaleza 108 (near Plaza Santa Barbara).Metro: Alonso Martinez Italian.(tel. 91/310 06 11. With spacious high ceilings, this place a fantastic Spanish atomsphere! Nabucco offerspasta and pizza (with paper thin crust) for about 640 pesetas to 910 pesetas ($4.90 to $7). Main courses will run you about 925 pesetas to 1,450 pesetas ($7.10-$11.15). American Express, Discover Card, Master Card and Visa are all accepted. It's open Sunday-Thursday from 1:30pm to 4:00 pm and 8:45 pm to 12:15 am and Friday to Saturday to 1:00 am. (2)Madrid 1, Carrera de San Jeronimo 16 (east of Puerta del Sol). Metro: Sol. (tel. 91/521 90 31).Platos combinados cost 550 pesetas to 800 pesetas ($4.60 to $6.65) and the menus del dia are 975 pesetasand 1,275 pesetas ($7.50 to $9.80). Master Card and Visa are accpeted. It's open daily from 8:30 am to 12:30 am. Come see this Spanish tapas bar with dining room. Sandwiches and burgers are also served.Definitely dependable for day and nightime dining. RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN BARCELONA: For the cheapest meals in Barcelona, look for 850-950 menus in the areas between La Rambla and Via Laietana. (1) Bar Restaurante Los Toreros, C. Xucla, 3-5; (tel. 318 23 25). Open Monday to Friday 8:00am to 1:00am and Sundays from 8:00am to 5:00pm, a meal will run you around 500 pesetas. Enjoy!!! (2)Agut, Gignas 16, (tel. (93) 315 17 09). It's simple, hearty Catalan home cooking. American Express,Visa and Master Card are all accepted. (3) Els Quatre Gats, C. Montsio, 3 bis; Metro Catalunya; (tel. 302 41 40). Enjoy the live music and the menu design which was created by Picasso. Hours of operation are from 9:00pm to 1:00am and Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 2:00am and Sunday 5:00pm to 2:00am. Entrees cost between 110 and 2600pesetas and when there is music, there is a cover charge. 8. Musuems and Monuments MADRID: Museo Lazaro Galdiano. Come see a collection of rare paintings ranging from the Flemish to works created by the Spanish masters of the golden age. Artists include: El Greco, Murillo and Zurbaran. Also,paintings from Goya's "Black Period" and from such English and Italian masters as Constable and Tiepolo. Museo del Prado, Paseo del Prado. Take bus 10, 14, 27, 34, 37, 45 or 46 or Metro: Atocha or Banco de Espana.(tel. 91/420 28 36).Admission is 500 pesetas (#.85) for adults, 250 pesetas ($1.90) for students and freefor senior citizens and children under 11 years old. It's also free for everyone on Saturdays from 2:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Open Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, Tuesdays-Saturday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Thyssen Bonemisza Museum. At this museum you can view 700 canvasses that are arrayed inchronological order. Works range from El Greco to Picasso. Palacio Real (Royal Palace); Calle de Bailen.Metro: Opera or take bus # 3,25,33,39 or M4.(tel. 91/ 542 00 59). Although it has not been occupied since the King in 1931, it is used for Stateoccasions. Built in the mid-eighteenth century, it has approximately 2000 rooms and is decorated by Flemish tapestries and ceiling frescos designed by Tiepolo. Admission is 950 pesetas ($7.50) for adultsand 350 pesetas ($2.70) for senior citizens and students. There is a mandatory guided tour. Plaza Mayor; While this used to be an area for executions and bullfights, you can now enjoy atatmosphere of lively cafes and music. Iglesia de San Isidro, Metro: Latina or Bus 17, 23, 35 or 60. A seventeenth century church which was designed by Pedro Sanchez and Francisco Beutisto. It served as the cathedral of Madrid from thelate nineteenth century until 1993 when a new cathedral, (Palaccio Real) was consecrated. Casa de Campo, Metro: Lago or Batan. It's the largest park, pool zoo and amusement park!!! Theadmission price is 345 pesetas and the hours of operation are from Monday to Friday, 11:00am to 2:30pm and 4:00pm to 9:00pm, Saturday and Sunday, 11:00am to 2:30pm and 3:30pm to 10:00pm. The amusement park is open Sunday through Friday from noon to 11:00pm and Saturday from noon to midnight. The Madrid zoo is only a five minute walk from the amusement park which is open daily form 10:00am to 9:30pm. Admission is 1440 pesetas. Festivals: Mid-September/Beginning of October: Autumn Festival. There are concerts and operatic, dramatic and ballet performance (classical and modern). Zoo Aquarium, Casa de Campo. Metro: Batan. Take bus # 33 from Plaz Isabel 11. (tel. 91/711 99 50).Admission is 1,570 pesetas ($12.70) for adults, 1.255 pesetas ($9.65) for children 4 to 7 years of age andfree for children under the age of 3 years. The ticket office is closed a half an hour earlier. Estrecho. Although it doesn't compare to the San Diego or Berlin Zoo, it's the best in Spain! There'sa dolphin sho at 1:00 and 5:00 pm that you won't want to miss. Special Tours: Madrid's Vision Bus Tour, It stops at 13 favorite museums, plazas and avenues. The tour lasts foran hour and a half and will cost 1,500 pesetas ($11.55). Departures are Tuesdays to Sundays from 10:00am to 6:15 pm. Convenient places to picj up the bus are Prado, Puerta del Sol or El Corte Ingles Department Store. SEVILLE: Palaces Alcazar, the oldest royal residence in Europe. It was built by Peter the Cruel in 1364, seventy-eight years after the Moors left Seville. Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes de Sevilla, located in the early seventeenth century, this Andalusian museum is famous for its works by such Spanish masters as Valdes, Leal, Zurbaran andMurillo and Dutch master Breushel. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Admission is 250pesetas. Cathedral de Sevilla; After Saint Peter's in Rome and Saint Paul's in London, this cathedral is the largest in Europe. Among some of its important feautres are the tomb of Columbus, the Patio de los Naranjos, the beautiful Flemish alterpiece, the Giralda Tower and the Capilla Real (Royal Chapel). BARCELONA: Museo Picasso; Carrer de Montcada 15-19; Metro: Jaume I.(tel.93/319-63-10).Admission is 750P ($5.75) for adults, 300P ($2.30) for senior citizens and students and free for children ages 11 and under. If you come the first Sunday of the month it's free. It's the place where you'll find many of Picasso's notebooks which contain several Barcelona sketches. Cathedral de Barcelona (La Seu), Placa de la Seu, Metro: Jaume 1. Take Bus 9,16, 17, 22 or 45.Admission to the Cathedral and cloister is free. However, the Museu de la Catedral costs 55P ($0.40).It's open daily from 7:45 pm to 1:30 pm, and 4:00pm to 7:45 pm. The museum is open daily from 11:00am to 1:00 pm. It was completed in 1450 and represents the spirit of Catal as an empire. Itis located inthe Gothic quarter and is one of the most beautiful museums in the country. Las Ramblas; Here, you'll find various street performances! Come and see the sketch artists,living statues, political activists, lovers and mimes.fun activities such as street performers dancing the flamenco, fortune tellers and plenty of merchants to buy gifts for friends and family. Monument a Colomb; Open June 1-September 24 from 9:00am to 8:30pm and September 25 to March 30 Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm and 3:30 to 6:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 6:30 pm; April 1 to May 31 Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 2:00pm and 3:30 to 7:30pm. Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am to 7:00pm. The ticket offices close thirty minutes prior. The cost is27 pesetas. Las Golondrinas; Sails through Barcelona's harbor, past the Montjuic. Every thirty minutes andruns daily in June from 11:00am to 8:30pm and May and July through September from 11:00am to 8:30pm; April and October 11:00am to 6:00pm, November to March Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am to 6:pm.A roundtrip ticket costs 380 pesetas. Museu d'Art Modern; 20th century Catalan artists. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00am to7:00pm. Admission is 300 pesetas but is 200pesetas for students. Estadi Olimpicado Montjuic; home of the 1992 Olympic games. Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm. Admission is free! Fundacio Joan Miro; Av. Miramar 71-75, Parc de Montjuic (tel.93/329-19-08).Admission is 600P($4.60) for adults, 400P ($3.10) for students and free for children 13 and under. The museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am-7:00 pm and Thursday from 11:00 am to 9:30pm and Sunday and Monday from 10:30 to 2:30 pm. Take bus #61 from Placa de Espanya. This greatplace is a tribute to Catalan lyrical surrealist Joan Miro. And, if you get hungry, there's a restaurant whichis not too expensive. from the top of the Montjuic Funicular, just turn right down to the museum. Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona; Placa deis Angels 1. Metro: Catalunya or Universite.(tel. 93/412-08-10). Admission is 600P ($4.60) for adults, 400P ($3.10) for students and seniors. Themuseum is open Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 8:00 pm, Saturdays from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Bullfighting -Critical remarks are increasingly being raised about this event. However, you won't beable to tell that if you're there. It's still one of Spain's favorite pasttimes. Held on Sundays between March and October. Check the paper for details. Ticketscan be purcahsed at Muntaner 24 (tel. (93) 453 38 21).There are two bullrings in the area: Arenes Monumental, Oran Via Carles I. This arena is a lot smaller and used rarely. There's also a bullfighting museum at the Monumental ring. It's open from March to October daily from10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 5:30 30pm to 7:00 pm. Ports and Beaches: Port Olimpic, a new complex with dozens of bars and a booming nightlife! Festivals: September/October: Festival Internatcional de Musica. There are solo recitals, choral and orchestralconcerts. Side Trips from Barcelona: Codorniu, (tel. (93) 891 01 25) This place offers the best tours and tastings. Call for hours. Trains rundaily to Sant Sadurni d'Anoia. A round trip fare costs about 600P ($4.60). Shopping: District Passeig de Gracia, Rambla de Catalunya and the Diagnal. Flea Market, Els Encants. It's at the end of Dos de Maig on the Placa Glories Catalones. Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. 9. Nightlife MADRID: Dance Clubs: Madrid is the place to be if you love to have fun! Many discos have "afternoon"sessions usually going from 7:00pm to 10:00pm with a cover of 250-1000 for teens. But, the crazy fun nightsessions last until dawn. It's very common to see a huge line of people waiting outside the discotecas at 5:30 in the morning still waiting to get in. If you're a woman, chances are you'll pay less than your male friends. Coverwill run around 500 pesetas and usually includes one drink. The hippest clubs are always changing so youmight want to consult the Guia de Ocio or ask around. Eslava, Calle de Arena 11. Metro: Sol or Opera. (tel. /91 366 37 33). The best nights are Friday andSaturday! It's open Monday-Friday from 11:30 pm to 5:00 am and Friday to Sunday from 7:00 pm to 6:00am. Cover is 1,500 pesetas ($11.55). Afterwards, why not check out La Chocolateria de San Gines5 ! Just take Metro Sol! Open since 1894, it makes the best hot chocolate and churros!!! Open Tuesday-Thursday from 7:00 to 10:00 pm and 1:00 to 7:00 am and Friday and Sunday from 7:00 pm to7:00 am. Live Music: Bars and Cafes: El Anciano, Metro Opera or Bus #3/ (tel. 19 559 53 32). Simple, great beer and wines and great tapas.It's a great place to come after visiting the Palacio Real.Open from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm and from 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays,Thursdays, and Sundays and from 5:30 to 12:30 am Friday and Saturday. It's closed in August. Cafe Circulo de Bellas Artes, C. Alcala 42. Metro: Banco de Espana. With ceiling frescos and a great marble style, come check it out! Cover is 100 pesetas. Taberna de Dolores , Plaza de Jesus 4. Metro: Sevilla. It's behind the Palace Hotel and north of Calle de las Huertas. (tel. /91 429 22 43). Open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 am to 1:00 am and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am to 2:00 am. Cafe Gijon, Po. Recoletas 21. Metro: Colon. Open daily from 9:00 am to 11:30 am, this terrace bar/restaurant is a great place to bump into famous writers! Coffee is 300 pesetas. Performing Arts: Tortes Bermejas, Mesonero Romanos II, Metro: Callao. (tel. 91/ 532-33-22). Doors usually open at 9:00 pm or 9:30 pm and the show starts at 10:45 pm and ends at 12:30 am. There are seven flamencodancers, 2 or 3 guitarists and 1 or 2 singers all in costume. BARCELONA: Live Music: Palau de la Musica Catalan, (symphonic and choral music), c. Francesc de Paula 2 (tel. 268 10 00).Ask about the free winter concerts on Tuesday nights and the October music festival. Tickets run between800 to 1500 pesetas. The box office is open from June to August, Monday to Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 pm,September to May, Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Saturday from 3:00 to 9:00 pm andSunday from one hour prior to the concert. Dance Clubs: The club scene goes in two shifts. There's the (1) post siesta shift (around 5-7pm) and the (2) secondshift which occurs after dinner between (9:00 to 11:00 pm. After the bars start emptying around 2:00 am,crowds come to the discos for another 4 or 5 hours of fun!!! If you like to party, Barcelona is definitely thecity to go crazy!!! The nightlife is amazing and it seems as if no one ever gets tired!!! Otto Zutz, C. Lincoln 15. Metro: FFFCCC Muntaner. It's one of the largest clubs in the city with 3 floorsof bars and dance floors. cover will run you about 2000 pesetas with one drink included. It's open Tuesdaythrough Saturday from midnight to 5:00 am. Poble Espanyol, (tel. 93- 424 93 09).This place offers everything from jazz to flamenco. It's a multifloorbar and disco with 12 restaurants, 15 bars, 3 bares-musicales and a large discoteca! On warm nights, check out the open air roof for a great view of the city. The party doesn't begin until 1:30 am and doesn'tstop until 9:00 am. Open Thursday through Saturday. Panini, Moll de Mestra. It's a pizzeria by day and a disco by night. Open Tuesday-Sunday at midnight. Bars: Ticktacktoe, Roger de Lluria 40 (tel. 93 318 99 47). Metro: Urquinaona. It's part bar/part restaruant/part billiard hall. It's open daily from 7:00 pm to 3:00 am. Nick Howanna, Rossello 208 (tel. (93) 215 65 91). Metro: Provenca or Diagonal. This is one of the first designer bars. It's open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am and Sunday from 7:00 pmto 4:00 am. Heydey, Bruniquer 59 Metro: Joanie. It's a gay bar and there's no admission price. Open from 10:30pmto 5:00 am daily. Coctelerias and Champagne Bars: Gimlet, Rec 24 (tel. 93/310 10 27). Metro Jaume I. A great place to relax. Brut, Trompetas 3 in Picasso Museum Area. La Xampayeria, Provenca 236 on the corner of Enric Granadas. Xampanyet, C. Montcado 15. Open tuesday to Saturday from 12 noon to 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm and Sundays from 6:30 pm to 11:30 pm. Come here if you're feeling sophisitcated! Cafes: Cafe de l'Opera, Ramblas 74, opposite of Liceu. It's the ideal place for coffee or any drink at any time of day! Casinos: The Gran Casino de Barcelona, 42 km (26 miles) south of Sant Pere de Ribes. (tel. (93) 893 38 66).Jacket and tie are required. 10. Currency The unit of currency is the peseta (pta). There are coins for 1,5,10,25,50,100,200 and 500 pesetas and notes in deonominations of 1000, 2000, 5000 and 10,000 pesetas. The current exchange rates can be found in national newspapers and may be obtained from banks and tourist offices. The exchange rate is approximately 125.3 pesetas to $1 US. Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 2:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 1:00pm and during the summer months, banks are closed on Saturdays. Money can also be changed in exchange offices, travel agencies and the reception desks of larger hotels. American Express offices offer the best exchange rates for travellers and. . . Madrid: El Corte , Ingles: C. Preciados 3 (tel. 532 18 00). Barcelona: Banks in Barcelona give the best rates. Check out: Banco de Espanya ,pl. Catalunya. Open from Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. Seville: El Cort Ingles , Pl. Duque de la victoria 7 (tel. 422 09 31). Open daily from 10:00 am to 9:30 pmoff season and Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm. It is advisable to bring money in the form of traveller's checks. Most internationally recognized credit cards are accepted. What Things Cost in Madrid: Please send your comments to: Jennifer Wolf Also Visit These Travel Pages

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