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La Merc? Festival Of Barcelona

Towards the end of September Barcelona begins to limber up for the largest event on its festival calendar, La Merc?, a celebration of the city’s patron saint «Mare de Deu de la Merc?». The festival heralds the end of summer and the onset of the autumn months. The festival is a real big deal for the people of Barcelona and the still temperate weather means that, in true Mediterranean fashion, must of the fun takes place outside. There’s a massive amount to do whilst the festival is on with events popping up all over the city and over 3000 artists and performers on display with over 500 activities to watch or take part in. The festival has a long and proud and first took place in 1902; today it’s a fantastic blend of tradition and innovation.

You’d really need to write a novel to keep on top of everything that goes on at La Merc? each year so, we’ll just have to settle for some highlights. We start with one of the oldest traditions; the human towers or «Castells» are a real must-see, sometimes as much as ten stories high they’re a fantastic display of teamwork, agility and balance.

A recurring theme throughout the festival is the celebration of fire and one of the most exhilarating experiences of La Merc? is the «Correfoc» (the «Fire Run») where costumed fire-breathing devils rampage around the streets in a colourful pyrotechnic display. Kids absolutely love this sort of thing and audience participation is a big part as the devils chase after those foolish enough to get in their way. Another favourite of the children is the «Dragons and Giants» procession which starts in the Plaza Real next to Las Ramblas.

Foodies and wine lovers shouldn’t feel left out either as there is no shortage of indulgence in those areas. Food and wine shows run throughout the festival showcasing local produce and allow you to try and buy the best that Catalonia has to offer.

Festivities aren’t just kept on the ground either, La Merc? also celebrates the sky with static hot air balloon flights, kite displays and other aerial exhibitions taking place throughout the festival on the city’s beaches. Other areas around the city to look out for are the Centro de Cultura Contemperanea de Barcelona where you can view street theatre, Moll de la Fusta which will be giving centre stage to numerous circus acts and Plaza St Rei where various dance troupes and performing artists will be vying for your attention. There’s also a museum open day where many of the city’s museums and galleries can be entered free of charge including the Picasso museum, the Museum of History of Catalonia, the Maritime Museum and many more.

The culmination of the festivities is called «Piromusica»l — the finale involves music and a huge fireworks display choreographed together for an amazing audio-visual experience. A big named music star is usually brought in to play the finale and 2005 saw local singer and composer Pep Sala having the honour of closing out La Merc?.

For tourists La Merc? offers a perfect opportunity to see Barcelona at its best — it’s a colourful, vibrant spectacle which offers something for all age groups and all tastes. It also offers visitors the perfect opportunity to see more of this wonderful city.

Hull City Guide, Including Hull Hotels

Once known for its fishing fleet the city of Hull has in recent years undergone a revitalization that has made it among the UK’s most vibrant cities. First chartered more than 700 years ago by Edward I, Hull combines the best features of a bustling port with the amenities of a cosmopolitan city. In the forefront of British defence during World War II, Hull suffered widespread damage and has since undergone extensive rebuilding. A visitor choosing to holiday here will find museums, nightlife, sport and venues to rival any town.

Travellers new to the area may be surprised by the size and variety of the museums and historical sites Hull has to offer. Many are world class and boast renowned exhibits and respected educational facilities.

The Deep. In little more than four years of existence this superb aquarium has seen in excess of two million visitors. Thousands of schools have logged visits as well. Thirty exhibits examine life in the water from streams to the ocean depths. Hundreds of varieties of sea creatures including fourteen species of shark are on display via the deepest marine viewing bay in Europe. With its metal and glass clad point jutting into the harbour, The Deep is unlikely to be overlooked and impossible to forget. Admission is reasonable with family tickets available.

Ferens Art Gallery. Considered one of the best galleries in the provinces, Ferens houses a large collection of Old Masters in addition to a well regarded overview of contemporary British Art. Families will be interested in its children’s gallery. The best of the art world’s travelling exhibits make it here as well.

Hands on History Museum. A delight for the family and history buffs of all ages, this museum is a fine introduction to Victorian times with a specific emphasis on the homes and lives of the people of Hull.

Streetlife Museum. One of the four museums which make up the Museum Quarter on High Street. Travel through two centuries of Hull transportation in this museum whose mission is to document the evolution of Hull transport. Realistic climb about exhibits will both entertain and educate. Wilberforce House, birthplace and home to Hull son, slavery opponent and member of Parliament William Wilberforce, sits adjacent to the Streetlife Museum. Currently undergoing a massive renovation, it will re-open in 2007.

Arctic Corsair. Christened in 1960 and retired in 1987, the Arctic Corsair is the last of a proud tradition of fishing vessels that for centuries were the lifeblood of Hull’s economy. Known as a side winder, this proud ship was opened for visitation in 1999 and has logged thousands of eager boarders. Kept as she was when a working fishing trawler, the Artic Corsair is not suitable for disabled visitors or small children. Contact in advance for a guided tour.

After a day of museum exploration a little shopping, easy going sight seeing and just plain relaxation may be in order.

The Princess Quay. Located in Hull’s harbour, this unusual shopping centre has a multitude of shops and entertainment spanning three decks. Dining is also available on the quay proper as well as in dockside restaurants.

One World Trading. Shopping with a conscience is the idea behind this fair trade market. Its wide eclectic range of imported goods based on the concept of fair trade offers many one-of-a-kind items.

The Humber Bridge. At one time the longest single span suspension bridge in the world, The Humber Bridge toll way is travelled by more than 100,000 cars a week.

Hull New Theatre. Home to plays, musicals, ballet and spectacular Christmas entertainment, the Hull New Theatre has served the area since 1939.

East Park, West Park, Queens Garden. Hull boasts a wide array of public gardens throughout the city which offer personal recreation, picnic areas, floral exhibits, animal parks and water sports.

Hull offers a fine mix of traditional and modern pubs and restaurants for both the family oriented and the young, single traveller or couple.

Ye Olde White Hart. This historic pub dating from the sixteenth century sits hidden in an alley at the juncture of Bowlalley Lane and Silver Street. Legendary amongst locals the White Hart has undergone a recent rejuvenation with an eye to preserving its roots. A popular addition is the area billed as the city’s first all weather beer garden.

The Minerva Hotel. On the pier overlooking the Humber this traditional British pub and hotel offers Tetley cask, other name brand ales and a rotating menu of discriminating brew. Cribbage, dominoes, and big screen sports television make this a pleasant place to while away a few hours. The well served traditional British food, view of the river and family friendly atmosphere are additional reasons to put The Minerva on a visitor’s agenda.

Venn on Scale Lane. The upscale diner will enjoy this well reviewed fish restaurant which is a Michelin Guide favourite. Reservations recommended.

Old Custom House. Delectable food for a wide variety of palates along with a large and very serviceable wine list are served at this family establishment.

Jaz Caf? Bar. Visit this caf? in the evening for distinctive food and drink coupled with a revolving schedule of live music from jazz to salsa.

Hull Hotels

Jackson Hole Homes/Real Estate

Pristine lakes reflect the soaring summits of the Tetons while moose and other wildlife emerge for a snack of fresh wildflowers.  This scene greets Jackson Hole home owners every day as they enjoy the luxurious surroundings of one of nature’s most exquisite spectacles.  But don’t let the Wild West atmosphere fool you, Jackson Hole residents relish their thriving arts scene with over 30 galleries scattered throughout the town and enough restaurants to keep you satisfied every night of the week.  
This Wyoming enclave caters to the ski community’s elite as well as educated luxury homes investors who have enjoyed tremendous success with the local market’s upsurge in recent years.   Nearby Jenny Lake is a sight to behold with mirror-like surfaces and uncommon stillness produced by the serene valley below.  
Wildlife flock to this area and create once in a lifetime photographic opportunities for photography hobbyists.  Residents become acquainted with local wildlife as they become an integral part of the rich experience that Jackson Hole has to offer its visitors.  From bison to elk to moose, this protected area is one of the last enclaves of wilderness left for these majestic species.
The nearby National Elk Refuge is a popular attraction for families who enjoying evening sleigh rides among over 10,000 wild elk roaming the plains.  For the adventurous spirit, visitors will love Lewis and Clark style river expeditions that will expand your appreciation for the wonder of nature’s local bounty.  
Of course, skiing is the most popular activity in this world class resort town.  With craggy cliffs that strike fear in the heart of expert downhill skiers as well as gentler climes to offer, Jackson Hole draws gawkers from all over the world to its powdery slopes.  Snowmobiling, cross country skiing and racing are also available for the winter sports enthusiast and the mountain is rapidly becoming known for producing top notch athletic talents.
Rustic home cooking includes BBQ made fireside on nightly sleigh rides while more discerning diners will enjoy the gourmet food of Jackson Hole’s downtown eateries.  The Jackson Hole wine auction also promises to be an exciting experience as local residents vie for coveted bottle with which to fill their cellars.  The arts scene is also bolstered by the Jackson Hole symphony orchestra whose in demand performances often enjoy sold out audiences.  The raucous nightlife that pervades Jackson Hole ensures that excitement is just around corner no matter what the hour.  If you’re looking for adventure and a landscape like no other, explore Jackson Hole’s wealth of experiences today.