Tenerife is a volcanic island. The island's rich flora, volcanic landscapes and vast valleys, pine forests and deserts are characteristics that make hiking on Tenerife so special. It is totally different from the Dutch landscape. Hiking can be done in various ways: guided, with GPS, on your own, etc. In any case, whoever sets foot on this earth will be able to walk around here for hours.

• Tenerife has a volcanic landscape and also possesses Spain's highest mountain, “Pico del Teide.
• Those who hike in the Teno Mountains should definitely visit the village of Masca. This indigenous village can only be visited since a few years and is really worth a visit.

Hiking obviously involves the hiking facilities that are there. Because this exercise is so popular in Tenerife, the hiking facilities there are excellent. With a map handy, it seems almost impossible to get lost here. There are information points located at each nature reserve where they know all about the area, including useful information and tips on the various hiking routes and sights. Hikes can vary from one day to three days or more and the difficulty of the tours depends on various conditions, such as length, altitude and surface. In terms of temperature, Tenerife is pleasant all year round and therefore ideal for hiking; not too cold and not too hot. For true floral lovers and sun worshippers, the most ideal period for hiking in spring is between April and June. Everything is then in bloom and colors the island with the most spectacular spring colors. Well-known flora are the beautiful endemic Tijanaste and the Canary bellflower. These plant species are found only on this island and have beautiful colors.

Las Cañadas del Teide is by far the most famous hiking area in Tenerife. The area consists of several routes with different levels of difficulty. However, a good condition is important for all routes. It is a mountainous area with many ascents and descents where there are also many loose stones. Some caution is therefore always requested. The area is protected and belongs to the National Park. It is the sunniest place on the entire island and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2007. Also located here is the striking rock Roque de Garcia. This rock is the figurehead of Tenerife and has a particularly unique shape. This national park was created from the remains of an ancient primordial volcano. 

This one was still many times larger than the present volcano Pico del Teide. The old primordial volcano blew up part of itself by a large eruption. Landslides occurred and a new volcano arose from the remnants of the old volcano. There have been no eruptions since 1909. This last small eruption covered the volcano with several lava layers. Each layer is different with different shades of color. This is also the highest mountain in Spain and for good reason, because here at the foot of the mountain you can see a veritable sea of clouds. This sea of clouds is better known in the locals' vernacular as panza de burra (donkey belly). It is the result of rapid and steady gusts of wind that, with the combination of moisture and rapid airflow, form a thick dense layer of clouds. This particular phenomenon can be seen almost every summer.

One of the other hikes is in the Teno Mountains. This is the oldest part of the island and is known as the wildest area of Tenerife. With high mountains, deep ravines and dizzying views, this is well worth the effort. The area has six routes, all of which are available at the information point. Because the area is so rugged, there are some mountain villages that were not really accessible until recently. The village of Masca is an example of this. This is also the starting point of a beautiful hike that goes along the famous Masca ravine towards the sea.

Besides the Teno Mountains, the Anaga Mountains are a beautiful area for an interesting hike. The starting point for hiking routes starts from Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava. It is advisable to walk downhill, though, because the routes are sometimes very steep and long. During one of these tours, you also have the chance that you will walk in the fog for part of the tour. This just makes it extra exciting and is one of the reasons why hiking in Tenerife is also such a true adventure.

Spanish Locations

Today, Spain is a country that is very popular with film director and producers. Thanks to the excellent combination of a diverse geography, excellent infrastructure and cheaper filming costs means that you have probably seen more of Spain than you may have imagined. The arrival of the international productions really began in the 50's when David Lean discovered the deserts of Almería when he shot Lawrence of Arabia. In this list, let's see if you recognize any of these Spanish locations.

1. Alcazar de Segovia This is not the most filmed location in Spain but it is something we see almost daily (especially if you have kids) or at least we see its influence. First mentioned in 1120, this castle was built atop an Arab fort and was used as the home of King Alfonso VIII at the end of the 12th century. The castle we know today was finished in the mid 13th century under the reign of Alfonso X of Castile. The Castle's most important moment was when Isabel's brother, King Enrique IV, died. There was a struggle between her and her niece, Juana la Beltraneja, for succession to the throne and Isabel took refuge in the castle and later proclaimed herself queen. A bloody 5-year war with Portugal would ensue and the rest is history. So where does the movie fit in? Simply, this castle was one of Walt Disney's inspirations for Sleeping Cinderella's castle. Whenever you visit  Disneyland or watch a Disney movie, keep an eye out for the castle and you'll see a little bit of Segovia every time.

2. Plaza de España, Seville Located in the beautiful urban Maria Luisa Park in Seville, the Plaza de España is a magnet for tourist and Sevillanos alike. Constructed in 1928 for the Ibero-American Exposition World's Fair, this Renaissance Revival landmark was used to house Spain's industrial and technological exhibits. Around the Plaza you will find tile walled alcoves along the building and within each one is a representation of the provinces of Spain. There is also an artificial river that borders the plaza where you can rent a boat and have a unique visit of this historic plaza. There have been so many films shot here it is difficult to single on out, but the one that stands out for me is from my least favorite Star Wars movie, Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace. Here there are various scenes shot where the Plaza de España is Naboo. It also reappears in Episode II. Another memorable appearance is in David Lean's Lawrence of Arabia.

3. The Guggenheim, Bilbao One the most iconic buildings in Spain, the Guggenheim opened its doors in 1997. The opening of this building was the defining moment in the history of Bilbao since it signaled the rebirth of a city that was hit by a depressed economy along with a waterfront that would have made Detroit seem like Paris. Largely considered the most important architectural work since 1981, the Guggenheim rose up out of the rust and decay like a phoenix, transforming Bilbao into an economic motor and cultural showcase for all of Spain. In Brosnan's third Bond movie, The World is Not Enough, the opening segment is shot in Bilbao and around the Guggenheim museum. Although it isn't a movie, Mariah Carey's video "Sweetheart" was shot her too.

4. Palacio de los Hornillos, Santander An estate hidden in the fog on the island of Jersey is the center for the mysterious happenings to Nicole Kidman and her family in the blockbuster movie The Others. This estate, which is not located on any island, is actually located close to a major highway that connects the northern city of Santander with Madrid. This palace is located on a 148 acre (60ha) estate 30 miles south of the stately city of Santander—and was once the retreat of Spanish royalty. Today the palace remains in private hands owned by the Duke of San Carlos. If you'd like to visit, you'll have to be invited to a wedding—or getting married yourself— or rent it out as a B&B the next time you're here negotiating the purchase of a small country.

5. El Cortijo del Fraile, Almería What looks like a Spanish Mission is actually a farmhouse located in the desolate Cabo de Gata Natural Park near Almería. Built in the 18th century by Dominican Friars (Fraile in Spanish), this farmhouse was the epicenter of a spectacular crime known as the Crimen de Nijar (Crime in Nijar) which would captivate an entire country in 1928. The story of this crime is retold in the movies Bodas de Sangre (Blood Wedding) based on the Federico Garcia Lorca play. This building was home to another criminal figure. Do you remember "El Indio"? This is the character brought to life by Italian actor Gian Maria Volonté in the movie For a Few Dollars More, the second in Leone's "Dollars Trilogy". In the movie the Friars Farmhouse is used as El Indio's old mission hideout.

6. Candilichera, Soria Soria is a foreign land even for Spaniards! Like Almería, this is a part of Spain that largely goes ignored but unlike Almeria, Soria is only a little more than an hour from Madrid. Located on the Spanish Meseta, this province has arctic-like winters and hellish summers. Given these circumstances, David Lean must have thought he was in Pre-Revolution Russia  when he chose Soria to recreate the Russian Steppes of Doctor Zhivago. The little town of Candilichera (pop. 204) would be the location for Yuri's country dacha where he, Tonya and Sasha escaped to when Moscow became too dangerous. It is also here were Yuri would have an affair with Lara in nearby Yuriatan. Like much of the movie, Yuri and his family would stay here until the revolution would come between them…again.

7. Osborne Fighting Bull, Candasnos, Huesca The Osborne bull is a billboard that you can find along highways all over Spain. These 50 ft. (14 m.) tall billboards which are nothing more than a silhouette of a fighting bull were first put up in 1958. Today, of the many that existed there now remain 91 and can be found in almost every part of the country. Since 1994 the bulls have been considered an "aesthetic and cultural" icon and have been permitted to stay in place along the highway even though the law prohibits roadside advertising. If you remember Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz in their breakthrough movie Jamon, Jamon, you will remember the bull as the place where the characters in the movie go to escape, seduce and…

8. Castillo Papa Luna, Peñiscola Peñiscola today is a great beach town frequented primarily by Spaniards. Its blue flag public beach is considered one of the most tranquil and family friendly beaches on the Valencian coast. What tourist and movie people have noticed about Peñiscola is its imposing castle that lies atop a rock outcrop surrounded by the sea. Constructed by the Knights Templar on the ruins of a Moorish Alcazaba at the start of the 14th century, It's most famous resident was the antipope Benedict XIII, or the Papa Luna in Spanish. This castle served as the backdrop for Charlton Heston in his classic 1961 movie El Cid. In the movie, Peñiscola and its castle were used to portray 11th century Valencia.

9. Passeig de Gracia, Barcelona Considered the most expensive street in Barcelona, this thoroughfare houses buildings designed by Gaudí like the Casa Batlló and Casa Milà. You will know this street for its appearance in Woody Allen's 2008 movie, Vicky Cristina Barcelona. In one scene, you will notice Vicky and Cristina walking among the human shaped chimneys located atop the Casa Milà. This building is open to the public along with access to the rooftop which was also used in the Jack Nicholson movie The Passenger. For the visitor to Barcelona this street is as obligatory a stop as the Champs-Élysées is in Paris.

10. La Ciudad Encantada, Cuenca This park is home to some amazingly weird rock formations nestled in a pine forest in the Sierra de Cuenca, 2 hours east of Madrid. Here some of the most memorable scenes from Conan the Barbarian were filmed for this fantasy about an orphaned slave turned warrior. Today the Enchanted City is a popular destination for fans of Arnold and Conan. Because it is on private property, you can visit after paying a 3€ entrance fee.

The Costa del Sol, most probably one of the most famous seaside resorts in Spain among Dutch tourists. It is the place for winter visitors, sun worshippers, people over 50 ... basically for every beautiful weather lover! Besides sun, sea and beach tourism, it is also a popular place among young people to spend their vacations. This is partly due to the many entertainment venues, stores and the international atmosphere it exudes. As its name suggests, the Costa del Sol is the sunniest coastline in Spain, as costa del sol stands for solar coast. This is not for nothing, because with more than 325 days of sunshine, you can wear this name with honor. You can go sunbathing in the sun, of course, but the Costa del Sol has much more to offer than just sunshine. In fact, its beautiful landscapes and excellent climate also make the Costa del Sol a preferred destination for sports activities.   

Beautiful gardens, unique museums and delicious food can all be found along the 150 kilometers of coastline along the Costa del Sol. The coastline is located on the southern side of Spain in the province of Málaga, in the autonomous region of Andalusia and is situated on the Mediterranean Sea. It lies between the regions of Gibraltar and Almería and includes the provinces of Málaga, Cadiz and Granada. Due to its excellent location, a large percentage of Andalusia's accommodation is also centered here. White villages, miles of sandy beaches, wide rivers and mountains characterize the region along the Costa del Sol. The people are also part of the Costa del Sol. The open and friendly appearance of the people makes you feel right at home. Furthermore, it is also a popular destination for a reason, as it is the complete opposite of what the Netherlands has to offer. This is the ultimate place to unwind in a completely different environment.

The sandy beaches along the Costa del Sol are most probably the most famous of the Spanish coasts. They are very different from each other: from the noisy and touristy beaches full of facilities, to the quiet and almost deserted sandy beaches with only sand and beach. Along the coastline, besides sunbathing you can also achieve active activities, thanks to the many sports clubs located here in the area. One popular activity in the region is golf. Cadiz is known for having the finest golf clubs in all of Spain. This is partly due to the various factors that influence this. The climate, location, design, facilities and maintenance are very important. Besides golf, tennis is also a sport that is widely practiced here.

Over the years, golf and tennis have often come to be known as truly elite sports. Of course, they are not just for the elite. However, the fact is that all these excellent facilities have attracted the elite. In the smaller mountain villages a few hundred meters away from the beach, there are often many villas and luxury houses where the elite of Spain (and other countries) like to settle temporarily or permanently. It is a place where the luxury lifestyle can be realized with ease. This elite image is maintained in part by various luxury events held annually in the area, such as the "Marbella Luxury Weekend," the "ILTM" fair ("International Luxury Travel Market") and the "Arabian Travel Market. Many international stars have also traveled to this true luxury haven. The cruise ships and luxury yachts are certainly not lacking here.

In addition, just a few kilometers away there are beautiful famous places of Spain to visit, such as romantic Ronda and palace-rich Granada. In short, the Costa del Sol is a place where many can stay longer.

The world has just lost a woman who knew how to capture in words that sense of shock, that childlike disbelief experienced when you suddenly find yourself in the middle of a war occurring right in your front yard (like she did). Ana María Matute has died, a fundamental figure in the literature of post-civil war Spain. Just months ago she finished her latest novel.

Ana María Matute

Matute was born in 1925 Barcelona to a middle class family. Her Catalan father owned an umbrella factory and her mother, a housekeeper from La Rioja, raised their five children.

At four years of age Ana María became seriously ill. She went to live with her grandparents in the village of Mansilla de la Sierra (La Rioja), where the people and landscape would greatly influence her writing; these early impressions would make up the heart of her 1961 collection of stories Historias de Artámila.  

Civil war broke out just before she turned 11. The horrors of war left an indelible impact on her life. She defined her generation as that of “the astonished children” who had to face a brutal world they didn’t understand: the war and post-war.

Ana María wrote her first novel, Pequeño teatro, at 17. The novel that caught the attention of the literary world was Los Abel (1948), inspired in the generations that followed the Biblical figures Adam and Eve. One year later her Luciérnagas (fireflies) was selected as a runner up for the prestigious literary award the Premio Nadal. The novel did not pass strict censorship in place at the time however and it didn’t even end up getting published until 1993.

This is one of those “Matute matters” (cosas de la Matute) as she would say, referring to herself in third person: either by personal design or by the whims of fate, some of her works remained dormant for extensive periods before reaching the public.  

We see one example of this literary hibernation with one of her most famous novels Olvidando rey Gudú, which sat in a desk drawer for nearly 25 years before its publication in 1996.

Ana María Matute received numerous awards: the Premio Planeta in 1954 for Pequeño teatro, the Premio Miguel de Cervantes in 2010, the Premio Nacional de Narrativa in 1959 and the Premio Nadal that same year for Primera memoria, the Premio Lazarillo de literature infantil in 1965 for El polizón de Ulises, the Premio Ojo Crítico Especial in 1997 awarded by Radio Nacional España for Olvidado rey Gudú, and the Premio Nacional de las Letras Españolas in 2007… and many more.

Matute was an honorary member of the Hispanic Society of America and she became the third woman in history to be accepted to the Royal Spanish Academy.

We’ve lost a female Spanish writer with a timid voice who expressed herself with unique elegance through novels, short stories, and tales for children; a world where she still felt, at the age of 88, like an “astonished child”.  

It is the second largest festival in South America and very popular with tourists. Hundreds of thousands of people from Peru, South America and the rest of the world come to the Peruvian city of Cuzco to usher in the traditional new Inca year. This festival is also called the Inti Raymi, the Festival of the Sun. Every year the sun god Wiracocha is worshipped in Cuzco and at the archaeological Inca fort "Sascayhuaman" and celebrates the beginning of the new solar year.

• Every year on June 24, the Festival of the Sun takes place in Cuzco and the surrounding area. The Peruvian name is Inti (sun) Raymi (festival) and during this festival the solstice is celebrated. The solstice represents the beginning of the new Inca year.
• The Festival of the Sun is the second largest festival in South America and very popular.
• The festival begins early in the morning when the Sapa Inca thank the sun for all its blessings. The second part is at the ancient Inca fortress Sascayhuaman where a reconstruction of the ancient tradition is enacted by 500 extras.

The Inti Raymi is an ancient tradition of the Inca religion. Quechua is the language of the Incas and is still spoken today by much of the Inca Indian population in the Peruvian mountains. In this language, Inti means sun and Raymi means festival. Hence the name "Festival of the Sun. According to official tradition, the first Inca created this celebration to celebrate the solstice (also called winter solstice). The solstice represents the first day of the new year according to the Inca calendar and officially begins on June 21 and ends on June 24 because, according to the Incas, the sun stays in the same place during these days. Therefore, the festival of the sun is only really celebrated on June 24.

The celebration of the Inti Raymi begins at 8 a.m. in the main square in the city of Cuzco. The rainbow flag that symbolizes the Inti Raymi is raised during mass in the cathedral. First, the Sapa Inca (the leader of the Inca people), thanks the sun for all its blessings. Then the whole procession goes to the Inca fortress "Sacsayhuaman," about 5 kilometers from Cuzco. At the Inca fortress, also called the sacred house of the sun, the second part of the Festival of the Sun is celebrated. The celebration consists of a huge spectacle with 500 extras portraying a reconstruction of the ancient ceremony. This entire spectacle is also entirely in Quechua, and the Sapa Inca is the main speaker. During the spectacle, various extras pay homage to their leader and, of course, to the sun god through various dances, rituals and music.

The Festival of the Sun is an important and popular spectacle during the month of June in Peru. Many activities are organized during these days such as live performances, exhibitions and shows. People from all over the world, mainly from South America and Peru come to Cuzco to enjoy brilliant performances, swinging music and, of course, the theater of the Inca ceremony. Entering the Incafort is free and it is possible to rent seats in advance. The Festival of the Sun really should not be missed if you are traveling towards Peru!

Spain has just enthroned her sixth King Felipe. The following is a quick peek at the kingly lives of these six Felipes.

Felipe I of Habsburg: Born in Bruges, Belgium (1487), this Felipe received the Spanish crown and introduced the house of Austria to Spain through his marriage to Juana I de Castilla, daughter of the Catholic monarchs. Juana became heir to the throne of Aragón and Castile when her older siblings Juan and Isabel died. After the death of Isabel the Catholic, King Ferdinand hoped to continue ruling. The flatteringly nicknamed “Felipe the handsome” however was not willing to renounce his own power. They reached an agreement known as the Concordia de Salamanca (1505) which granted joint rule to Ferdinand of Aragon, Juana, and Mr. Handsome himself. Felipe and Juana had six kids, the second would inherit the throne for being born the first boy. He would go on to rule under the name Carlos I.

The son of Carlos I, Felipe II, represents the height of opulence during the Spanish empire. He was the king of Spain, Naples, Sicily, and Portugal, and for four years he was even the king of England. His reign saw the construction of the San Lorenzo del Escorial Monastary, where he died in 1598. He’s something of a controversial figure: some consider him a paragon of virtue while others (including protestant historians) think he was a more of a fanatical tyrant. The Spanish empire would extend around the world under Felipe II’s rule, a time when the famous phrase “the sun never sets on Spain” emerged. He married not twice nor thrice but four times, and had a total of eight kids. The penultimate of these heirs would carry on the Habsburg’s dynasty under the name Felipe III.

Felipe III reached the height of Spanish expression. He showed much more interest in theatre and painting than politics, which he delegated to his favorite, the Duke of Lerma. In many history books, this Felipe’s reign remains in the quiet shadows of ambitious dad Felipe Sr.’s incredibly prosperous rule, along with that of his gramps, Carlos I. Felipe III, known as Felipe the pious, did however achieve a high level of culture in Spain and an unprecedented 23 year period of peace known as the Pax Hispanica. He had eight children with his wife Margarita de Austria. The first-born boy, would be would reign as Felipe IV.

Known as the Planet King, Felipe IV occupied the throne for nearly 45 years, the longest lasting reign of the Habsburg dynasty. The Count-Duke of Olivares Gaspar de Guzmán would prove fundamental to his reign, a politician who maintained a firm foreign policy to preserve Spanish power in Europe. Spain’s constant wars with France and European Protestants drove Spain to a crisis. France’s Louis XIV took advantage of the state of his weakened neighbors and promptly went about becoming Europe’s most powerful king. Felipe IV had seven kids with his first wife Isabel of France, five of whom died before reaching adulthood. He later married Mariana of Austria and had five kids. After the first two boys died, Carlos II inherited the crown. Felipe IV had at least eight children out of wedlock.

Felipe V had to wait 35 years before becoming king, but then he went on to rule for 45 years, the longest lasting reign in Spain’s history. He was also the first Spanish king of the house of Bourbon. His connection to the throne recalls a soap opera-like storyline; this Felipe was the grandson of Luis XIV of France, the great grandson of Felipe IV of the house of Habsburg. He couldn’t take the French throne because he wasn’t the first-born son and because his grandmother had renounced her dynastic rights to marry Luis XIV of France. King Carlos II of Spain had no heirs, so in 1698 the European monarchs put together the First Partition Treaty of Spain, which named José Fernando de Baviera as successor to the Spanish crown. José died a year later however, which obliged Europe’s monarchs to create the Second Partition Treaty of Spain in 1700, granting the crown to Archduke of Habsburg. King Carlos II surprisingly designated his grand-nephew Felipe as heir, hoping that this Felipe, supported by the French crown, would prevent the empire from falling apart. Felipe V was crowned in November of 1700. All European monarchs recognized the new king except the House of Austria. A conflict erupted between the two dynasties, the Habsburgs and the Bourbons, resulting in a war of succession that pitted Felipe supporters and Archduke Carlos supporters against one another in and outside of Spain. In 1713, Carlos ended up taking the throne of the German empire. The rest of the European powers signed the Treaty of Utrecht to control the growing dominion of the Habsburgs. The treaty removed Spain from the Habsburgs’ control, but allowed them to keep their overseas land and their metropolitan areas (except Gibraltar, which was given to Britain). All European monarchs recognized Felipe V, except Emperor Carlos, who continued claiming the Spanish crown.

The latest in this long series of Felipes was proclaimed king on June 19, 2014, with the name Felipe VI. He took the throne after the abdication of his father, who had remained the King of Spain since 1975, after the death of the Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. Upon Franco’s death, Felipe became the Prince of Asturias, heir to the Spanish throne. A young Felipe VI studied for one year in Canada before starting at university. He earned a degree in law from the University of Madrid and later a masters degree in international relations from the University of Georgetown. In 2004 he married Leticia Ortíz, a well-known TV reporter. The couple has two children: Leonor (2005) and Sofia (2007).  

Young Spanish Musicians

Music is the backbone of this conglomeration of traditions, languages, geographies, and cultures that we call Spain. Spanish heritage is surprisingly rich and diverse, and the music here, in its most “classic” form, provides a special source of inspiration for many Spaniards. Spain has 45 symphonic and/or philharmonic orchestras, but we’ll be taking a quick peek at Spanish youth orchestras.

Limited space for text has obliged us to focus our list on 10 of these groups. We certainly have no intention of undervaluing those that don’t appear here. 

 

Joven Orquesta de la Comunidad de Madrid This group got its start in 1991 with 15 to 26 year old students from Madrid-area conservatories and music schools. Young musicians may only participate with the JOCM for up to 3 years, during which they attend classes taught by professional orchestra members. The JOCM puts on concerts every year in the Auditorio Nacional de Música, the Teatro Monumental, various theatres throughout Madrid, and as part of tours around Spain and Europe. (http://www.jorcam.org/)

Joven Orquesta de la Generalitat Valenciana The JOGV was also created in 1991 as a state-sponsored private entity. It remained private until 1996, when the Office of Culture, Education, and Science took over full responsibility. Members of the JOGV are between 16 and 25 years old. They must have also passed the final year of studies of their instrument at the intermediate level, and they must pass a test that will allow them to be members of the orchestra for 3 years. Members may prolong their membership for 3 more years after passing the required exams. The JOCV is made up of over 100 musicians who participate in a minimum of 3 yearly performances in Valencia. (http://ivm.gva.es/cms/)

 

Joven Orquesta Nacional de Cataluña In 1993, maestro Josep Pons founded the Jove Orquesta Simfònica de Catalunya, which changed its name in 1999 to its current Joven Orquesta Nacional de Cataluña (JONC). The group’s main goal has been to provide young musicians from Catalonia comprehensive orchestral training through lessons with professionals and visits from some of international music’s most noteworthy figures. The JONC serves as a stepping stone for young talents to break into the world of professional music, where they may have the chance to join some of Catalonia’s greatest orchestras such as that of El Liceu or the Palau de la Música Catalana. (http://www.jonc.cat/)

 

Joven Orquesta Nacional de España The JONDE belongs to the Instituto Nacional de las Artes Escénicas y de la Música, which operates under Spain’s Department of Culture. The JONDE was founded in 1983 to help train young musicians before beginning their professional musical careers. Classes here are offered by prominent figures such as Mstislav Rostropovich, John Williams, Teresa Berganza, etc. The orchestra places a special focus on contemporary music, attested to by the creation of the Academia de Música contemporánea in 2003. This orchestra makes up part of the Asociación Española de Jóvenes Orquestas (AEJO) and the Federación Europea de Jóvenes Orquestas Nacionales (EFNYO). Young musicians who have completed 2 or 3 years with the JONDE may enter a scholarship program allowing them to finish their music studies in the country and with the teachers of their choice. (http://jonde.mcu.es/)

 

Academia de Estudios Orquestales de la Orquesta Sinfónica de Tenerife This academy aims to create a bridge between the life of a music student and that of a music professional. The teaching staff is responsible for transmitting their knowledge with students of the JOST (Joven Orquesta Sinfónica de Tenerife). Former students have gone on to become members of the JONDE, the Orquesta Gustav Mahler, the Joven Orquesta de Canarias, and other institutions. This program has proven so successful that the academy has put on symphony and chamber music concerts in the Auditorio de Tenerife and in different venues in the Canary Islands and the rest of Spain. What started as a program with admissions limited to 16 students has grown to accept 65. (http://www.ost.es/)

Joven Orquesta Provincial de Málaga This orchestra created in 1991 promotes passion for music in the province of Malaga and in the rest of Andalusia, focusing on helping young musicians develop their abilities to perform collective music and symphonic music in particular. The JOPM has an orchestral school, which accepts students aged 10 to 15 who will later join the JOPM and possibly go on to make a career as a professional chamber or symphony music player. (http://jopma.hol.es/index.php)

Joven Orquesta de la Fundación Caja Duero This orchestra, sponsored by the Salamanca-based savings bank Caja Duero, makes up part of an educational project launched in 2005 to help young musicians develop their talent by working together with professional musicians. The project originated as a chamber orchestra with 21 musicians. Today it has 61. In 2006, this young orchestra participated in the musical project “Fl milegio musical salmantino”, an effort which earned the appreciation of Salamanca residents. (http://www.fundacioncajaduero.es/musica/orquesta_home.aspx)

Joven Orquesta Sinfónica de Granada Over 10 years in existence, the JOSG is made up of musicians aged 15 to 23. It has an excellent reputation on a local and national level. The JOSG has participated in international festivals such as the Eurochestries and they’ve brought their wonderful brand of classical, symphonic, and chamber music to towns around the province of Granada where residents may not get the chance to hear it very often. The orchestra has also participated since 2008 in the FEX event of the Festival International de Música y Danza de Granada. It also receives the consistent support of the renowned Orquesta Ciudad de Granada. (http://www.josg.org/)

Orquesta de Jóvenes de la Provincia de Alicante The OJPA emerged in 2009 from the music-loving atmosphere that characterizes the region of Valencia and especially Alicante. Soloists and conductors of great prestige teach young members to develop and perfect their musical talent. The orchestra’s high level of education earned it great success in 2012 at the Teatro Monumental of Madrid, the home of RTVE’s Symphonic Orchestra. That same year, the young orchestra performed at the prestigious Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival in Germany. Last year, the OJPA invited the Swiss Jugendorchester Oberthurgau, the Twist Youth Orchestra of Brussels, and the JOPM to participate in the 1st Festival International de Orquestas de Jóvenes, held in Alicante. This year, the OJPA will take part in the Summa Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival Vienna, and it will host the 2nd Festival International de Orquestas de Jóvenes. (http://www.orquestadejovenesdelaprovinciadealicante.com/)

Barcelona 2014

This year on Sept. 11, the Catalan city of Barcelona celebrates its 300th anniversary. The celebration is known in Spain as "Tricentenari," literally translated "three hundredth anniversary", and highlights the most important events that took place in Barcelona's history in 1714 during the month of September. In collaboration with the Catalan government, the city council has organized events, debates, seminars, walking tours, artistic exhibitions and official celebrations to rediscover 18th-century Barcelona.

• Taking a city break to Barcelona this year? Imagine yourself in the Barcelona of the 18th century and discover the city in a different perspective.
• The Catalan city's 300th anniversary will be celebrated extensively through a wide range of activities.
• The purpose of the celebration is to show what Barcelona looked like 300 years ago and the impact of the violent events of Sept. 11, 1714.

The city of Barcelona in the 18th century was an upbeat and dynamic city striving to become a prosperous city again. After the death of childless King Carlos II in 1700, Emperor Charles V declared himself a candidate for the crown of the Spanish monarchy. Unfortunately, Carlos II, had named Philip V as his successor, leading to the War of Spanish Succession. During this war, it was Catalonia, which supported Carlos II against Castilian Spain, which supported Philip V. After 13 months, the city of Barcelona fell to the French and Spanish armies on Sept. 11, 1714, and Catalonia took over the city. Today, this is a National Holiday of Catalonia, "Diada Nacional de Catalunya", and commemorates the most valiant defeat in Barcelona's history.

After the fall of Barcelona, the massive 'Castilinization' began: Castilian was replaced by Catalan in every official document and planned housing projects began. With the construction of the new castle, where Ciutadella park is now located, the inhabitants of the 'La Ribera' neighborhood were exiled and housed in 'La Barceloneta'.

Now, in the Barcelona of 2014, these events are open to the public with the opening of the impressive market hall "Born Centre Cultural," a new archaeological cultural center where exhibitions are held. Here are a few exhibits dedicated to the Tricentenari. During a city break in Barcelona it is fun to visit the 'Mercat del Born' and to see the huge 18 by 14 meter map of Barcelona from 1714. This stands between the 'Parc de la Ciutadella' and 'Arc de Triomf'. This map shows the main points of old Barcelona and through a mobile application you will receive information about the historical sites. Also, top Barcelona chefs will prepare typical Catalan dishes from the 18th century. Will you be in Barcelona this year? Then take a look at 17th century Barcelona and see the city from a completely different perspective!

After reading an article in the Wall Street Journal, an interesting dilemma has come forth for the North American viewer of the World Cup. Is it a better soccer experience watching the game with commentary in a language you may (or may not) know better than English?

Curiously, during the 2010 World Cup, Univision, the Spanish language broadcaster in the US, received consistently higher ratings versus their English-speaking counterparts ESPN and ABC. It wasn't until the final that ABC was able to receive higher marks: 13 million viewers vs. 8.3 million for Univision. In any case, 8.3 million viewers is a hefty number of viewers for a sporting event and a total of 21 million viewers for a soccer final is downright great.

Knowing that there is a demand that viewers apparently desire a more exciting and partisan commentary for their soccer game viewing, Univision is taking on the big broadcasters on their own turf—with English language commentary. For many people, listening to the game with the emotion that normally isn't transmitted in the American English-language broadcast adds an element of entertainment that they want to hear and experience—even  though they may not understand anything that is being said!

The World Cup 2014!

For this year's World Cup, Univision will continue to maintain and reinforce their emotive announcing style while also trying to appeal more to the non-Spanish speaking viewer. This year they will provide more bilingual commentary and their on-air personalities will tweet continuously in Spanish and English. Univision has also hired commentators like ex-Team USA defender Marcelo Balboa, Italian World Cup winner Mauro Camoranesi and ex-Barcelona FC and Bulgarian soccer legend, Hristo Stoichkov.

These commentators will easily move between English and Spanish and their Soccer (or is it football?) credentials are unquestionable. Their insight and experience will be key for the American viewer better understand and appreciate the little details that make soccer the world's most popular sport.

As an American in Spain, I must admit that I really had no clue about this sport when I arrived. Over the years I have slowly come to appreciate the appeal of this sport and how entertaining it can be; living In a country with one of the best soccer leagues in the world also helps a little. But one thing I have noticed here is the completely partisan approach in the transmission of international sports events. From F1 to Soccer there is an unashamed Spanish-centric approach to sports commentating that can be frustrating at times to downright funny.

For a quadrennial global championship where a country's national pride and honor goes on the line, I vote to hear sports commentary where the emotion reflects this urgency and anxiety. We're not talking about a tennis match or a chess game—this is the WORLD CUP! Also, if I had a choice of watching a game in German or Italian (both languages I don't speak but I've seen their soccer coverage) I would take the red-blooded Italian commentary over the German's cold insightfulness any day.

Fortunately for me, in Spain I understand the local commentary and I will enjoy every scream, yell and collective "UFFF". If you're in North America you'll have a viewing choice of two contrasting styles—take a look and pick the one that works for you. You're World Cup experience will depend on your choice.

One of the most alive summer festivals in Spain: the International Music and Dance Festival that takes place every year in Granada. For three weeks, the festival is intensely celebrated and as many as 30,000 people come to the famous city of Andalusia to attend this festivity. The birth of this festival was in the year 1883 when a concert was held in the Palace of Charles the Fifth but also 9 years later, in 1992, when the flamenco song was performed in the Alhambra with the help of Federico García Lorca, Manuel de Falla and other intellectuals and artists of the time. This year is the 63rd edition and the festival will take place from June 20 to July 11. 

• The origins of the festival date back to 1883, to the first concert given in the Palace of Charles V and to 1992, when the first flamenco song was shown in the famed Alhambra with the help of famous artists and intellectuals.
• The Alhambra, Generalife and Albaycín in Granada are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and many festivities of the festival are given in one of these artistic creations.

The festival involves many different musical styles and genres, each held in an exceptional setting in the city. National and international artists gather in Granada's most notable neighborhoods to give dazzling performances. Past editions of the festival have been 95% occupied and nearly all sold out. The festival is not only popular for Spaniards. Thousands of residents from France, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, USA, Brazil, Finland and Colombia also visit Granada during this festival.

Many festivities are given in one of the artistic creations listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Alhambra and Generalife are originally from Islamic Spain of the 16th century. The Albaycín, on the other hand, has something of the Moorish influences. The concerts of the immense symphony orchestras take place in the "Palacio de Carlos V. The dancing and ballet performances are performed in the outdoor theater in the "Jardines del Generalife. These beautiful gardens belong to the Generalife Palace, which was originally the summer palace and mansion of the Nasrid Sultan of Granada. In the morning there are several concerts in Granada's ancient churches and buildings. At night, the characteristic neighborhoods of El Albaicín and El Sacromonte are transformed into "nights of Flamenco" and world music is played.

The International Music and Dance Festival in Granada joined the European Festivals Association in 1955 as the first Spanish festival and is one of the popular summer and music festivals in Spain and for people who love Spanish culture, this is the perfect summer festival. Granada is full of artists, orchestras, dance groups and much more during these three weeks. At the same time, you can enjoy the beautiful Spanish summer weather and this ancient UNESCO city with Moroccan and Moorish influences.