Fergus opens a new accommodation in Majorca for 2015

Young, indomitable, lively, with new proposals, and a modern and groundbreaking style. This is the new creature of Fergus Hotels chain in Majorca, a hotel complex aimed at the young public, stem from the merger of the Barracuda hotel in Magaluf and Pax hotel, both located next to the famous BCM Planet disco, sharing ambience, parties and DJ sessions.

Designed as a big hotel complex for young leisure, it offers all the advantages of an All-inclusive hotel in Majorca, along with the advantages of an Adults Only hotel in Magaluf: a perfect accommodation to travel with friends or to celebrate anniversaries, stag parties or events.

Fergus Magaluf Resort

The Fergus Hotels’ investment in these types of theme hotels related to the music, which have been so successful in Ibiza and Magaluf, with the famous Mallorca Rocks as precedent, is to say the least, notable.  They have recovered all the outdoor common areas and offer more that 10000 square metres of outdoor space used for terraces, chill out areas, dance floors, swimming pools, deckchair areas sunbathe listening to the background music…

Additionally, the new resort has theme rooms for stag parties, accommodations for groups, areas designed for sports –such as the gym or the outdoor sports courts-, dining room with All-inclusive buffet, bars and cocktail bars, Sunday brunch, lacked Lunches for those days out… And all types of details specially intended to make life easier for those seeking a holiday in Magaluf to enjoy the sun, beach and one of the most famous night leisure areas in Majorca.

The line marked by the Calvià Beach Resort of Melià, with its Wave House, the already mentioned Mallorca Rocks or Ushuaïa in Ibiza begin to see their reflection in the rest of the hotels in Magaluf and Palmanova, where we find one of the largest young travellers communities in Mallorca.

Barcelona hotel trends for 2015

2015 countdown begins and, to keep up the tradition, we begin with our series of analysis of the best accommodations in every city for next year holidays. Take the calendar and start to highlight the trip dates, your days off and holidays because 2015 is full of novelties with regard to hospitality. Yes, it seems that this industry is working hard and there is no stopping them. We are talking about design, luxury facilities at affordable prices and attention to service. Returning to the origins, but with the best technologies in the market.

The battle for the centre of Barcelona

The location of a urban hotel in Barcelona is essential when travellers decide to take advantage of a long holiday and travel to the Ciutat Comtal. This is why, nowadays, the centre of Barcelona seems a pitched battle as far as hotel trade is concerned. Quality hotels, of course, because lifelong hostels, guesthouses and apartments still exist but, to be honest, they are not what we call innovation pioneers.

Ciutat Vella and its surroundings are the most in demand areas, but new neighbourhoods are becoming much sought-after, such as the mythical Raval, L'Eixample and the area of hotels next to Las Glorias square. The increase in value of these new areas, along with the creation of interesting tourism services, has broadened the meaning of "best location" in the city, increasing the competition in areas usually occupied by hotel for events in Barcelona.

Confortel Barcelona Hotel

Democratization of prices

Hotels next to Las Ramblas, design hotels close to La Boquería, luxury apartments and even hotels built in modernist houses make up one of the most careful hotel industries in Spain. Although prices are still higher than in Madrid, the competition has led to a balance and to a democratization of prices, with an average of 90 Euros per night at 4 star accommodations.

Considering the impossibility of fighting with price, these quality hotels have focused the strategy on the creation of an added value for the customer.  The technology used in hospitality and tourism, specifically in wellness and rest, is the key element in this sense. In this way, the number of chains investing in hotels with free wifi in the centre of Barcelona has significantly increased, some of which, like Petit Palace, have skilfully achieved to offer devices to their customers from which they can connect without needing to pay any type of extra charge. Laptops in the rooms or the possibility of booking an iPad in the reception to enjoy it during the stay.  These are services that make the difference and are a real success for business travellers, couples and families that travel to Barcelona in holidays.

The experience is what matters most

When your hotel becomes a must visit place of a traveller in certain destinations, you know that you have an authentic success in your hands. The experiential hotels in Barcelona is getting a space in the consumers mind, result of big investments and a different business perspective. In this sense, stand out those accommodations that understood and took advantage of the lure and attractions of the destination where they are place. A clear example is the museum hotel in the centre of Barcelona, which occupies the old house Garriga Nogués, or the hotel that belongs to Barceló chain in El Raval neighbourhood.

Brunch with the best views of Barcelona, architecture and exclusive design, a restaurant offering traditional gastronomy of the city or gourmet menus... Catalonia is another chain that will be reference in 2015, with so interesting proposals such as its hotel with rooftop swimming pool next to the Fira de Barcelona, the Catalonia Barcelona Plaza Hotel, or its hotel next to Las Ramblas. In this case, location, design and added value in the services are a whole. A love triangle which is the key element for this industry, not just in the next year but also in the future,

Hiking in Maresme coast: Calella

Maresme coast is one of those magical places in the Catalonian coast, usually related to the most traditional summer tourism. However, this coast with small charming fishing villages and tourist centres specially designed visitors in search of peace and Mediterranean, offers other types of attractions which are gaining ground. One of those centres of attraction are the hiking and mountain routes in Maresme, its natural parks and viewpoints.

Among the most important points, today we choose Calella, a relevant tourist area in Maresme, where are situated some of the main holiday hotels and accommodations. It also offers some of the most interesting routes. If you stay in a hotel in Calella or if you have booked an apartment for holiday, make the most of your stay and plan a nature excursion. Below, we propose you 3 of the most famous hiking routes in Calella, with a low-medium level of difficulty, ideal for families.

Dalmau Park or Squirrel Route

It is an easy route, perfect for families with small children. Just 3 km and you can cover it in 1 hour, since the path is not demanding. It is a pleasant walk, under the Mediterranean pines, palms and banana trees. Its name comes from the large number of  squirrel living in the park.

Tamarindos or Corb Mari Route

Another of the famous routes in Calella coast is the called Corb Marí route. It is situated close to the sea, so we can contemplate its beautiful views and the lovely atmosphere of sea breeze. This area is full of many Mediterranean shrub, trees and plants, colourful tamarinds, brooms and pines. There is a viewpoint from where you can watch the Mediterranean and birds surrounding the area. The route has also 3 km, with a low-medium level of difficulty.

Sierra de Guilles or Fox Route

It is one of the best ways to know this area which is the continuation of Montnegre Park Forests. It goes towards the sea and its name comes from the foxes that live in this area, as well as the squirrels and several bird species. It is the only one among these 3 routes which is not totally recommended to be with family, since it is a bit demanding:  10 km, more or less 2 and a half hours walking at a good pace with a medium-high level of difficulty.

Additional information:

→ Calella tourism website

→ Maresme coast website

Accommodations in Maresme

→ Hotels in Calella

→ Hotels in Santa Susanna

→ Hotels in Malgrat de Mar

→ Hotels in Pineda de Mar

A weekend escapade to Santa Cruz de Tenerife

To escape from the cold of this time of year, one of the most desirable options is to take a weekend escapade to the Canary Islands. The temperature of the islands is approximately 21ºC all year round, making it a very desirable destination. Most especially, for people from northern European countries, that find in the Canary Islands a paradise destination in just a 2 or 3 hour flight. The Canary Islands also has the infrastructure and services that are most demanded by tourists looking to enjoy a beach and relax holiday.

In this post, we'll talk about the capital of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (capital of the autonomous community together with Las Palmas de Gran Canaria). The city has a wide range of hotels, tourist services and the ability to practise all sorts of water sports. It is important to mention the number of beaches available to visitors, most especially the beach of Las Teresitas, built with sand from the Sahara dessert.

Cooking Courses in Santa Cruz de Tenerife

We will also enjoy one of the best-known celebrations in the world, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. From late January to mid-February, the island of Tenerife becomes a party destination for thousands of tourists, and hotels are fully booked just like the summer season.

If you also want to complete your holidays with other cultural activities, a good option is to book a gourmet hotel in Santa Cruz. The IBEROSTAR Mencey Grand Hotel is an reference on the island, and has an excellent gourmet restaurant that will delight the most passionate gastronomy lovers.

At the same time, the hotel has the Mencey’s Cookery Classroom, a unique gastronomic space on the island where cooking classes are organized with some of the best chefs in the country. You can find more information on the official website of Mencey’s Cookery Classroom or subscribe to their newsletter to keep updated.

Out-of-this-world landscapes

Lanzarote, Tenerife, Fuerteventura... The Canary archipelago is one of the strange places that invite you to travel to other world. Its volcanic landscapes combined with vineyards, lakes, cliffs and extensive white sand beaches offer, at more than two hours flying from the peninsula, a getaway to a new world.

If you decide to escape to a beach resort in Lanzarote, you must visit the Timanfaya National Park, Jameos del Agua, Mirador del Rio, Cueva de los verdes, El Golfo volcano. Any of these sites will transport you to a place that seems to have been created by the craziest imagination. Splendour, energy and strength in every place, in every corner. Most of these beautiful spots have guided tours and excursions accessible by adults and children.

If you prefer a rest and relaxation plan, a good options is to book a hotel in Tenerife and enjoy a 5 star getaway. This big island offers facilities conceived of for all types of people and the advantage of having of the liveliest capitals of the archipelago.. Santa Cruz. Its hubbub, comfort and services contrast with some places of the island, where you can get away from it all and dream you are travelling to another world. El Teide, La Orotava, Puerto de la Cruz, Icod de los Vinos, Punta de Teno, Anaga mountains…

Finally, if you book a hotel in Fuerteventura, you can choose between the wonderful northern landscape, Corralejo Dunes at the top, and the southern beaches, in Jandia peninsula. If you decide to stay in a hotel in Corralejo, do not miss to try surfing at any of the beaches close to the town, in the northernmost point. But if, on the contrary, you look for an almost Caribbean postcard for your holiday, opt for a resort in Playa de Jandia for all the family. Close to both areas you can discover all types of amazing landscapes, such as the beautiful Cofete beach, in Jandia Natural Park, or Generosa beach, next to Corralejo.

Here you have some photos illustrating these striking landscapes in the Canary Islands. Although the best way of enjoying them is, undoubtedly, a getaway to the islands.

Barcelona food tour: La Boquería

Today, our series of autumn/winter trips is about a place in Barcelona which has become an unmistakable meeting point for residents, national and foreign tourists: Sant Josep market, mainly known as La Boquería market, an extraordinary gastronomic place in the city of Barcelona, where flavours, ambience and creativity converge with tradition and the spontaneity of regular and curious visitors. Just thinking about it makes me hungry... Where to eat in La Boquería?

One of the best places to eat in La Boquería is Quim bar, whose name come from its owner's name, is a must visit place if you want to taste the Spanish and Catalonian delicacies made with love and the best fresh product of the market. Quim and the waiters (almost 10 behind a small bar) move like a fish swimming in water with that unique charm which has turned it into gastronomic pilgrimage centre in Barcelona. We recommended, undoubtedly, the eggs with Foie Gras and its most traditional dishes.

The Pinotxo is the classic dish in La Boquería. Here, the main figures are the Catalonian recipes. Its bar is full of tradition and customs, an experience full of constrasts. Authentic gastronomy of Barcelona, impeccable ambience -sometimes a bit crowded- and quality products bought in the same market.  If possible, taste the bocata de butifarra, escalibada or some of its succulent vegetable and pulse stew.

The third stop in our gastronomic trip to La Boquería is Kiosko Universal, a charming place located at the left side of the main entrance to the market. It has bar and a few tables. Like in the previous ones, sometimes we must wait, but it is worth it. Here, the speciality are shellfishes, fish, meat and mushroom dishes The traditional Catalonian cuisine, the authentic tapeo spirit, as well as the lifelong dishes with an innovative proposal impossible to ignore. Our favourite dishes are those made with sepia and squids, the seasonal Padrón peppers and the broad beans with eggs and ham. A dish worth breaking your diet for.

Arriving to La Boquería market is really easy if you stay in a hotel next to Plaça de Catalunya, since you only need to go to Las Ramblas and go down towards the harbour at just some metres. You will find it at the left side. There are affordable hotels close to La Boquería and right in Las Ramblas, ideal for getaways in autumn and winter. From March, when new season begins, prices usually increase. But, generally, the accommodation in Barcelona is affordable if you book in advance.

Information of interest:

→ Access to the market is free. Closed on Sundays. From Mondays to Saturdays, from 8 to 20:30h

→ La Boquería Market website

→ It has cooking classroom with professional chefs and sommeliers..

→ Discovering Sant Josep Market

Accommodation in Barcelona close to La Boquería:

→ Ópera Garden Hotel

→ Barcelona Hotel

Visiting Madrid: Thyssen Museum

It is time of one of our autumn-winter specials. On this occasion we have planned to do a series of tours to different cities in Spain, in order to finish a mini book with tourist routes around this country: from the most urban to the most natural destinations, from the most wonderful Majorca beaches to the frantic Gran Vía in Madrid.

Madrid is precisely our first destination. Yes, the Spain capital opens this series, it couldn't be any other way . We go to Madrid with an art plan for everybody.  We have immersed in Madrid art triangle and have rescued this from its sea bottom. Read, take note and book your getaway to Madrid before new year. It’s worth it. It’s really worth it.

The first stop, outside our hotel next to El Retiro: Thyssen Bornemisza Museum. Located very close to Banco de España metro station, to Cibeles and to Madrid City Hall, this art centre is full of novelties for autumn.  Carmen en las colecciones españolas is about to close . This exhibition was installed in the first floor balcony, conceived of as a complement to the Carmen Opera by Bizet of La Zarzuela Theatre.  Altogether, twenty selected works about the iconography of Carmen myth signed by Picasso, Gonzalo Bilbao, Ramón Casas. This exhibition, opened until November 9th, includes a cinema series every Saturday.

Recently opened, we can also appreciate Hubert de Givenchy and an American Impressionism exhibition. The first one, with the designer as organizer, is a guide throughout the career of this important character in French fashion. The second one breaks the mould, bringing for the first time to Spain a complete exhibition with 60 works of North American artists, which have get an important position as far as impressionism is concerned. All of them made between 1880 and 1890.

In next exhibitions of Thyssen Museum, we could enjoy in 2014/2015, Zurbarán and Munch in their rooms. The first exhibition will be dedicated to the painter Raoul Dufy, on February 2015, with its passion for daily hedonism. An exhibition full of colour and authenticity, representing a milestone in visualisation of this artist in Spain, almost 65 years after his death.

It will be followed, closer to Summer, at the beginning of June 2015, by Zurbarán exhibition: a new perspective, where we will find some of the unpublished canvas of this painter discovered in last years.

Munch exhibition will be on display in almost one year, until next October. It will be organised by Oslo Museum which is dedicated to this artist. It is the first time that we will enjoy more than 70 works of Munch in Madrid, offering a complete tour through the career of the author of the famous painting Skrik.

Practical information:

→ Museum entry is free on Mondays, from 12 to 16 hours. Just permanent collections.

→ Madrid Thyssen Museum Hours

→ Museum map

→ How to arrive to Madrid Thyssen Museum

Accommodation in the centre of Madrid:

→ Embassy Serrano Hotel

→ Art Gallery Hotel

→ Lealtad Plaza Hotel