Friday, April 13, 2007

Immerse Yourself Into The Folklore And The Artistry Of Spain

Spain, one of the locations that dominated and colonized a large part of the globe, aided in the discovery of new nations that are in existence today. Known as one of Europe's centers of refinement, Spain is a land that has the greatest of the arts, music, history, and architecture. For many years, first-rate artisans and skills in this location inspired the world. The Spanish people are also known for their spectacular vision and virtuosity, and these are seen in the many buildings, museums, and sculptures that are scattered all over. Flamenco is also an artistry that Spain is honored to have contributed to the world. A lively yet moving form of dance, the flamenco is often seen performed in theaters, bistros, and even along the streets.

True to their fun-loving character, music is also a necessary part of Spain's custom and folklore. Take for instance the guitar, a descendant of the lute, which was made back in the 1790s in Andalusia. It is now among the famous and important instruments used in different music sorts, from classic to rock. So if you want to see just how much Spain has influenced today's society, going to this beautiful paradise would be a magnificent idea.

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Vanquishing the Ire of the Bull in Spain

There are so many things that make Spain the best area to visit. The country boast of some of the perfect beaches lying within the banks of the Mediterranean Sea. But more than beaches and other attractions, the Spanish persons are famous for the richness of their culture. One of the more accepted tasks embedded deep in Spanish culture is bull fighting.

Bull fighting is an indulgence that is very close to the hearts of the Spanish persons. The work of a matador can be remunerative, however, it can be treacherous as well. In remote times, bull fighting was considered a sport among the privileged class. King Philip V, however, excluded the practice of bull fighting on the argument that it had a negative precedence to the public. Consequently, the common persons took up bull fighting as their own.

Existing bull fighting is regarded as a form of recreation. Though it could be pleasing for the persons, the matador faces a different feeling because it could be a life and death situation for him. The onlookers do not realize that one faulty move can lead to the demise of the matador.

On the other hand, a successful pursuit will not go unnoticed by the persons as well as the leaders. As a reward for his competence and shrewdness in defeating the bull, the matador may be awarded with one or two ears or tail and hoof of the fallen animal.

In conclusion, bull fighting is just one of the countless reasons why a vacation to Spain can be exciting and worthwhile.

Wednesday, April 11, 2007

Brandy de Jerez, The Mark Of Spanish Competence And Sufficiency

I recollect growing up and hearing my uncles contest over things like Fundador, Carlos I, and Brandy de Jerez. At first, I was perplexed about what those things are and it wasn't only after I turned sixteen that I got the whole picture -- what they were discussing was actually which Spanish brandy holds the best taste, but why make such a confusion over some liquor?

Out of curiosity, I figured to make some simple research about Spanish brandies -– where exactly in Spain are they produced and what makes them very outstanding. After expending some time in front of the PC and hopping around from one liquor shop to another for consumer interviews, I found out some impressive things.

If the French got Cognac and Armagnac, the Spanish have Brandy de Jerez -- the said label is the mark of great, world-class brandies that come from Jerez and two other neighboring Cadiz villages in Spain's Andalusian region. Another thing that makes the Spanish brandy different is due to its process and classification system called the solera, As for the step, the wine is first stored in oak barrels to be aged for some years to be turned into brandy before it will ultimately be mixed with older brandies to create a unique blend. It is then aged and classified into one of these variations namely: solera, solera reserva, and solera gran reserva which is aged 12 years or more and recognized as the greatest grade of for all Spanish brandies. With this knowledge, I now get to discern why men get so into talking everytime a Pedro Domeq title gets in the conversation.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Antonio Miro's Original Pattern Featuring A Mix Of Mediterranean And Spanish Influences

Born in Barcelona, Spain, fashion designer Antonio Miro is undeniably making waves because of his original and creative designs. During a journey to Spain, I was lucky enough to witness Miro's collection, and I must say that his magnificent works are a fusion of Mediterranean elements and Spanish art. His men's wear collection has many charismatic and colorful pieces, providing a whimsical touch to the common men's suits, which are mostly in monochromatic shades of black, white, gray, blue, and silver. His influences include the striking Mediterranean colors, the charming city of Barcelona, which is his hometown, and music.

Miro's wonderful creations have already invaded the catwalks of Paris and Madrid, making his name a notable brand worldwide. He has also received many fashion awards, such as the Cristobal Balenciaga Award for Best Spanish Designer in 1987, the Antonio Gaudi Medal in 2002, and the GQ's Best Men's Designer For The Year award also in 2002. The flexibility of his imagination and talent has also reached the furniture industry, as he designed numerous home furnishings in 1995. Despite current rumpus regarding eight illegal immigrant models he used in one of his fashion shows, Antonio Miro continues to pave the way for original Spanish fashion designers.

Monday, April 09, 2007

The Fascination of the Spanish Seas in Engaging Marbella

For trippers in search of a place in Spain where the wonders of the sea can be easily accessed, the ideal territory is Marbella. Various hotels found in this particular Spanish city have the sea as their primary attraction. One such hotel is Hotel el Fuerte settled in the central part of Marbella and standing next to the crystal-clear waters of the Spanish seas.

Of course, if you ever get tired of swimming in the vastness of the ocean, there are many other areas near the hotel that you can investigate, and this includes the ancient places that make up early Marbella territory. You can also try observing the Marbella wilderness and its odd inhabitants. This is essentially quite possible since Hotel el Fuerte is a place covered by a subtropical garden that measures over 4,000 square meters.

Other than that, sightseers could opt to simply stay inside the hotel and avail of the many amenities that it presents. They could either play a round of tennis in the resident tennis court or take a comforting dip in the swimming pool that has an outdoor background. Alternatively, staying inside any of the rooms in the hotel is also a good scheme as these have mini-bars where the most satisfying drinks can be enjoyed either alone or in the company of friends. Either way, Hotel el Fuerte is certainly the hotel of choice for trippers thinking of visiting Marbella.