European Vibe Magazine December 2008

european

vibe

No. 26 DEC ’08

The essential monthly lifestyle magazine

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MADRID EDITION

vibeds awa-r2009

08voting! 20kee p by sored spon

Spor ts Personalities of the Year

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christmas in spain Seth ROGEN returns San Sebastián Paris santa vs 3 kings SPANISH constitution 1978-2008 inspirational madrid AND LOTS MORE!

paris

CONTENTS

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santa vs 3 kings

Spor ts Personalities of the Year

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“Merry Christmas, you filthy animal,

… and a Happy New Year.” Ahh, it’s time again for the TV networks to wheel out Home Alone 1, 2 and 3, along with all the other obligatory Christmas movies. My game for you this month, as you lie slumped on your sofa watching one of these films the day after your Nth Christmas party, is to mute the wonderful Spanish dubbing and reproduce as much of the original dialogue as you can. If you do it in the presence of a Spaniard, it will be fun see their impressed/annoyed/afraid expression. If you do it with a fellow English speaker, you can take the parts of different characters. Bagsy I get Macaulay Culkin’s character. So, last month’s news was Barack Obama has been elected to become the first African American President, much to the shock of nations and people all over Africa, who had no idea that they were getting a new leader and weren’t even given the chance to vote on it. The funniest thing I heard during the elections was, “I don’t think it’s right in order for my mom to make a million she has to really make 1.3 so that she can give money to the people who don’t work over here and are lazy as hell!” Indeed, under Obama, there will be hard times for those Republicans whose moms take home little over a million. This month, and talking of voting, as the USA emerges from eight years under a Bush, Spain is celebrating 30 years since its people voted “Yes” to approve the current democratic constitution. Read Martin Quinn’s explanation of the background and what the defining document of the Kingdom of Spain is all about (page 29). The European Vibe team have voted for our sports personalities of 2008 and Harry Watkinson charts the achievements of each of the winners and runners up. (page 24). From established stars to rising stars, our interviewee for Inspirational Madrid is Irish singer/songwriter Garrett Wall. He tells us his journey from being an English teacher in Madrid to spiralling recognition and success with his band (page 10). Our European travel destination is Madrid’s French counterpart, Paris. Linn Treijs explains how it might be the best place to combine some Christmas shopping with a trip full of history, culture and atmosphere (page 14). Remember you can win a trip to Paris in our prize draw, which you enter by voting in the Vibe Awards. You can vote by email or with a voting slip, see page 11 for the full details. I wonder how many of you still give your presents on Christmas Day? Have any of you started doing it on 6 January like the Spanish traditionally do? Are the Spanish starting to move their focus towards 25 December, or will Three Kings Day remain sacred as the time for exchanging gifts? Peter Moore discusses what the future might hold for the tradition of Los Reyes Magos (page 28). Those are just some of the highlights, so get exploring the rest. On a personal note, I’d like to wish my friend Jorge a speedy and full recovery- all your friends are with you, ‘palomo’. On behalf of everyone at European Vibe, I’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

04 bits & pieces & BEST OF THE BLOG 06 WHAT’S ON 08 VIBES - MARK DEVLIN’S HOT JOINTS & Dj Cosy O 09 WHAT’S ON - calendar 10 inspirational madrid Garrett Wall 11 VIBE awards 12 PARTY PHOTOS & Subscriptions 14 WEEKENDER - Paris 16 EURO WEEKENDER San Sebastián 18 MAP IT OUT & My Metro - Quevedo 20 EAT OUT GUIDE 22 FILM FIRSt - Seth ROGEN in Pineapple Express 23 new movie releases 24 sport - European Vibe Sports Personalities of the Year 28 culture - Santavs 3 kings 29 culture - A robust constitution 30 LINGOSTAR - NAVIDADES EN ESPAÑA 31 LINGOSTAR - Boysvs. Girls 31 BOOKS - The Ghost of Christmas Past 32 services

Repro/Printer Artes Gráficas Hono SL November 2008 Depósito legal: M-59116-2006

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editorial European Vibe Entertainment Fernando el Católico 63, local 1 28015 Madrid Enquiries Tel: 91 549 7711 Fax: 91 549 7711 Email: [email protected] Editor Luc Ciotkowski [email protected] Lingo Star Editor Susana López [email protected] Art Editor Philip McIvor [email protected] MEDIA & DESIGN Ferdi Loskamp [email protected] Advertising José María González Alonso (91 549 7711) [email protected] Administrator Tomek Przybyszewski [email protected] senior pr & promotions Mitchell Vine [email protected] marketing John Folorunso MANAGING director Scott Edwards [email protected] Event CoOrdinator Sam Lee [email protected] logistics & distribution Rossen Angelov [email protected] PROOFREADING Tomek Przybyszewski, Peter Moore STAFF and blog writers Peter Moore, Linn Treijs, Harry Watkinson, Ryan Craggs, Harry Coyle, Martin Quinn, Helen Macrae and Vanessa Harris Cartoon Joe Hodgson INTERNS Anisha Bagchi, Katie Chavez, Matt Johnson

ADVERTISING/PUBLICIDAD tel: 91 549 7711 e-mail: [email protected] podcast You can now listen to and download European Vibe Magazine articles through the embedded player on the article pages of http://www.europeanvibe.com or on our podcast page http://europeanvibe.podomatic.com

Where’s Bully?

WIN!

If you find the bully logo in one of our featured adverts, send us an email to [email protected] and you could win a traditional hamper of British food products to the value of 50€ courtesy of The Food Hall. Last month’s winner was Don Clifford. Don won dinner for two in Basilicco Ristorante. Bully was hiding in the British Embassy advert, on page 32. Get searching!

Luc

www.europeanvibe.com

dec 08

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1 A way to elevate some a pattern (12) exercise (4-2) 5 Grown twisted but not 2 Left in heartless try score (6) right (5) 3 Nourishment could be 6 Work on the media, or unwritten out west (8) a tyrant (9) 4 Auditors’governing body sets 7 The border of a fairy-

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1 How whisky might be placed aside? (3,2,3) 8 It could make a tourist fall! (7) 9 Enclosed due to the warmth in the outhouse (8) 10 Commuters might be so properly arranged (2,5) 11 Mindless as a fat ruler? (10) 12 One who shows the way for you, me and that lady (5) 14 Was Venus de Milo so defenceless? (7) 15 Indistinct way to pass out (5) 16 Blush like victim of bull (5) 17 Brewer, for instance, is a really nice person! (7) 18 Bloomer featured during Michaelmas term (5) 21 Dentist needed for repairs to overpass? (10) 22 Not ringing when wearing ring! (7) 23 Pavlova roll created by historian (8) 24 Would James dig up a garden shrub? (7) 25 Challenger alternative is after something! (8)

measurer (9) 10 Bon’s feeling superior, being inferior (8,4) 13 Would mother and child get stuck into the spread? (6,3) 14 Where is deodorant going

into battle? (5,4) 16 Whip up a source of green tea (8) 19 Old Russian vote is distributed (6) 20 Ark set o! by ice sportsman (6) 21 Could be a negative party? (5)

easy puzzle 13

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8 6 3 1 4 9 2 1 3 6 4

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% 66

is how much you will win if you have a winning décimo (tenth of a full ticket) in the Spanish Christmas Lottery on 22 December. A décimo will cost you 20 Euros .

8.9 910

UK consumers bought presents through the internet last Christmas.

million light bulbs make up Madrid city council’s official Christmas lights around the capital this year.

350,000,000 results is how many a search with the word ‘Christmas’ gets on Google, significantly more than ‘Christ’ (95,600,000) and ‘Jesus’ (184,000,000) combined (one must also consider the popularity of ‘Jesús’ as a Spanish first name). What does that mean?

Euros is how much each Spanish household will spend on Christmas this year on average. 4.3% less than last year.

this BLOG month on the

www.european vibeblog.com

Check out Peter Moore’s special ‘Musical Advent Calendar’ each day of Advent for a different music video and his thoughts on each song. Also, read how the opening night of the opera season at La Scala is coming to Madrid’s Yelmo Ideal cinema. You can see Giuseppe Verdi’s Don Carlo on the big screen, live via satellite for as little as 15 Euros on 7 December.

www.europeanvibe.com

EVERY THURSDAY: BIG PARTY WITH DRINKS 2x1

House Speciality Cocktails 2x1 Spirits 2x1 Bucket of 6 beers 10¤ For Every Pint A Free Shot Pint of Vodka + Burn, Whiskey + Coke 8¤

day all

till late

Happy Hour MONDAY TO THURSDAY 17 - 21h WEEKENDS 17 - 19h

rish food in est I b M e

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300,000 Find the answers on our blog: www.europeanvibeblog.com

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bits & pieces

Problems with the crossword?

BLOG

Monday, 1 December Liverpool v West Ham Saturday, 6 December Man Utd v Sunderland Real Madrid v Sevilla Saturday, 13 December Middlesbrough v Arsenal Tottenham v Man Utd Sunday, 14 December

IRISH BAR

Close to Puerta Del Sol

C/Espoz y Mina, 7 Tel: 91 522 75 09 Sol and Sevilla

Wednesday, 17 December Open 24th December Hamburg v Aston Villa Abierto el 24 de diciembre St Etienne v Valencia Thursday, 18 December 31st December – Racing Santander v Man City v Real Madrid New Year’s Eve Celebration Sampdoria v Sevilla Barcelona Chelsea v West Ham Tottenham v Spartak Moscow Sunday, 21 December 31 de diciembre: Arsenal v Liverpool Gala de Noche Vieja Real Madrid v Valencia Villarreal v Barcelona 2 December Special Dinner Cena especial Tuesday, Sunday, 28 December Burnley v Arsenal Arsenal v Portsmouth Man Utd v Blackburn Open all night Fulham v Chelsea Stoke v Derby Abierto toda la noche Newcastle v Liverpool Watford v Tottenham

Tuesday, 9 December Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk Chelsea v CFR 1907 Cluj-Napoca Marseille v Atletico PSV v Liverpool Wednesday, 10 December Celtic v Villarreal Porto v Arsenal Man Utd v AaB Real Madrid v Zenit St Petersburg

plus all Major Sporting Events Live

MLB

Madrid agenda compiled in collaboration with esmadrid

Madrid agenda compiled in collaboration with esmadrid

what’s on?

what’s on? VAREKAI An extraordinary world exists in a far-away wood, on top of a volcano. Everything is possible in this world, which is called Varekai, where the

Ending: 30/06/2009 Venue: Nuevo Teatro Alcalá Price: from 22 € to 58 € Metro: Goya/ Príncipe de Vergara

exhibitions REMBRANDT. PAINTER OF STORIES Museo Nacional del Prado welcomes an exhibition devoted to Rembrandt which

latest show by Cirque du Soleil takes place to pay homage to the nomadic spirit, the soul and the art that make up the circus tradition. Ending: 4/1/2009 Venue: Cirque du Soleil marquee Price: from 35 € to 95 € Metro: Lago / Alto de Extremadura HAMLET Centro de Nuevos Creadores is staging a new version of ‘Hamlet’that involves doing away

with as much of the plot as possible, reducing it to the bare minimum: the father’s death, the desire for revenge, Hamlet’s inability to carry it out and the relationship that this causes with the mother and uncle. Ending: 4/1/2009 Venue: Teatro María Guerrero Price: TBC Metro: Banco España / Colón

gathers together roughly 35 paintings and five prints and aims to allow the public a closer look at the Dutch artist’s work. The exhibition will focus on Rembrandt as a narrative painter without ignoring his passion for portraits and landscapes. His facet as a story painter clearly displays the way his art emanates from the European Renaissance painting tradition. Ending: 06/01/2009 Venue: Museo del Prado (Paseo del Prado s/n) Price: 8 € Metro: Atocha 1914! THE AVANT-GARDE AND THE GREAT WAR Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza and Fundación Caja Madrid are presenting !1914¡ La

MUSICALS HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL ‘High School Musical’is a brand new music showwith songs, dances and a team inspired by

the popular Disney Channel films ‘High School Musical’and ‘High School Musical 2’. The musical includes surprises, namely, two new songs, which did not appear in the original film. Ending: 25/12/2008 Venue: Teatro Lope de Vega Price: from 35,92 € to 48,60 € Metro: Santo Domingo GREASE, EL MUSICAL DE TU VIDA ‘Grease, el musical de tu vida’ (Grease, the musical of your life) is a faithful version of the

original Broadway show that reproduces its stage design, its plot and its songs. This big format musical is intended for all audiences and it brings the charm of the fifties back to the present; it is an amazing show, with numerous actors on stage.

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Vanguardia y la Gran Guerra (‘1914. The avant-garde and the Great War’) an exhibition that, with more than 200 pieces from all over the world, has WWI as the central axis of the display. Ending: 11/01/2009 Venue: Museo Thyssen Bornemisza (Paseo del Prado, 8) Price: 6 € Metro: Atocha, Banco de España. NANCY SPERO: DISIDANCES Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía offers the first great retrospective of feminist

Sundays 10.00 until 14.00. Tuesdays closed. Museo del Prado (Paseo del Prado s/n) Metro: Atocha Open: Tuesday to Sunday from 9.00 until 19.00. Mondays closed. Museo Thyssen Bornemisza (Paseo del Prado, 8) Metro: Atocha, Banco de España. Tuesday to Sunday from 9.00 until 19.00. Mondays closed.

Sport

Night Life

REAL MADRID Estadio Santiago Bernabéu. Avenida de Concha Espina, 1. Tel: 91 398 43 00 www.realmadrid.es

Quizzes Anyway Pub Quiz NightThursday from 23.00 in Anyway Pub. Viriato, 64. Metro: Iglesia. IRISH ROVER Every monday at 21:00, upstairs in the library. Join us to spark up a brain cell after the weekend. Avenida del Brasil, 7. Metro: Santiago Bernabeau. J&J BOOKS AND COFFEE Pub quiz, every Friday night at 11pm. Metro: Noviciado. MOORES Pub quiz in English every Monday at 21.45 in Moores Irish Pub, Calle Barcelo. Lots of prizes and great fun. Everyone welcome. Metro: Tribunal.

Theme Parks Parque de atracciones (Fun fair) Open Weekends. Metro: Batán. Bus lines 33 & 65. Tel: 91 463 2900 e-mail: [email protected] Planetario de Madrid Avda. del Planetario, 16. Tel: 91 467 34 61 Metro: Méndez Álvaro. Closed Mondays Warner Bros Park Open daily from June to Mid-September and on chosen weekends and holidays during the rest of the year. Call to confirm opening times. Take the bus from Legazpi Plaza or the train from Atocha Tel: 902 024 100 www.warnerbrospark.com

comedy

AtLetico Madrid Estadio Vicente Calderón. Paseo Virgen del Puerto, 67. Metro: Pirámides. Tel: 91 366 47 07 www.clubatleticodemadrid.com CB Estudiantes Basketball Madrid Arena, Serrano 127, 28006 Madrid Tel: 902 400 002 www.clubestudiantes.com Real Madrid CB Pabellon Raimundo Saporta, Paseo de La Castellana, Madrid. Tel: 91 398 43 32, or check out www.realmadridbasket.galeon.com

Fun Activities AeroBalas Sky-diving School - Aerodromo de Casa de los Pinos, Cuenca. Tandem parachute jumps from 110 euros. Call 610 408 831 or 667 512 102 www.aerobalas.com Palacio de Hielo - Skating rink, bowling lanes and cinema. C Silvano, 77, Parque Conde de Orgaz. Metro: Canillas ZOO-AQUARIUM DE MADRID Casa de Campo Metro: Casa de Campo. Tel: 91 512 3770. Adults: 14.90 €. Children 3-7 years old and pensioners: 12.20 €. Children under 3: free entry. ski-kamel sportour. C Feijoo,9, on the corner with C Cardenal Cisneros, 72 (Quevedo). Tel: 91 446 0221. www.skikamel.com

Wednesday Nights Vibe the party @ Orange Café Now legendary international party with Hip Hop and RnB music taking place every Wednesday night at Orange Café , Serrano Jover 5, Metro Argüelles. Open Bar of beer, sangria and wine and beer pong games from 11:30 pm - 12.30 am for only 5 euros. From 12:30 till close, entrance with 2 drinks included for 10 euros. Get on the guest list at www.europeanvibe.com Thursday Nights Fever @ Joy Eslava The Ultimate Student Party. Every Thursday night Madrid’s most famous club becomes a Disco sensation with spectacular animation and the best music from the 1970s till present day. Free entrance or 2 drinks for 10 euros from midnight till 1:30 am, or entrance price with 2 drinks for 12 euros from 1:30 am till close. Joy Eslava, calle Arenal 11, Metro Sol / Ópera. Get on the guest list at www.europeanvibe.com Friday Nights fabulous @ Joy Eslava This is arguably Madrid's most Glamorous club night and is in session every Friday night at the Joy Eslava located in the central Puerta del Sol area of the city. Burlesque style animation, exclusive VIP zones and the biggest House and mainstream tunes all night long. Are you Fabulous enough to be there? Joy Eslava, calle Arenal 11. Metro Sol/ Opera. Get guest list access to this party by signing up at www. europeanvibe.com Saturday Nights SUGAR @ Lokua Every Saturday night from 12:30am Lokua opens its doors and becomes the number one urban club in the city. Check out this truly spectacular affair with visiting international DJs and performers. Lokua Club, La Glorieta de Principe Pio, Metro Príncipe Pío. Get on the guest list at www.europeanvibe.com

Ardal O’Hanlon Ardal O’Hanlon once said in a stand up show that he’d love to present a TV chat show, and that his first guest would be moonwalker Neil Armstrong. He said he’d sit him on a big stool, ask him questions for 25 minutes and not mention the moon once. But now, could the Irish comedian himself conceivably go on a chat show without the interviewer mentioning Father Ted? Probably not. The classic sitcom that was Father Ted deservedly made O’Hanlon a star for his hilarious portrayal of clueless young priest Father Dougal Maguire. However, unlike man on the moon Armstrong, Ardal O’Hanlon is famous for more than the one achievement. Despite being most famous for his roles in Father Ted and the more family-oriented sitcom My Hero, he was first, and still is, a great stand up comedian. In his forties now, he can’t get away with the naïveté he used to inject into his observational style of stand up and has replaced it with exasperation. Comedy fans can expect a big treat on that Sunday in December when he comes to Madrid; I’m looking forward to it more than opening the windows on my Advent calendar! 14 December

artist Nancy Spero. The American artist focuses her work on graphic feminine language, thus representing women’s capacity to transform their own area. Ending: 5/01/2009 Venue: Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Price: 6 € Metro: Atocha.

Museums Reina Sofía (Santa Isabel, 52) Metro: Atocha Open: Monday to Saturday 10.00 until 21.00.

dec 08

WORDS by Matt Johnson

THEATRE/Dance

Sala Clamores c/ Albuquerque, 14 M: Bilbao) 17€ (15€ in advance) www.comedyinspain.com

DON’T MISS www.europeanvibe.com

Lingo star’s choice by Susana López 28 de Diciembre Día de los Inocentes/ Innocents’ Day De todos los santos que aparecen en el calendario español este día es, sin duda, el más original: 28 de Diciembre, día de los Santos Inocentes. ¿Y qué se conmemora? La matanza de todos los niños menores de dos años nacidos en Belén (Judea), ordenada por el rey Herodes con el fin de deshacerse del recién nacido Jesús de Nazaret, según la Biblia. Este es el día perfecto para gastar una broma a algún familiar, amigo o compañero de trabajo. Los niños suelen dedicarse a pegar muñecotes de papel en la espalda de los transeúntes. Los medios de comunicación también contribuyen en este día y trasmiten noticias surrealistas que, sin embargo, los más inocentes siguen creyéndose. En algunos países de Latinoamérica los más supersticiosos evitan prestar dinero este día pues se corre el riesgo de no recuperarlo. Pon en marcha tu ingenio y quédate con todos el día de los Inocentes.

culture 31 december

New Year’s Eve in Spain “Humpy hew hear!” “What?” “Humpy hew hear!” “What? I’m sorry - finish chewing that mouthful of grapes.” (Chew, chew, gag, swallow, gulp) “I said: Happy New Year!” “Oh yeah, of course. Happy New Year, friend!” In Madrid, it’s good luck if you can successfully chew and swallow one grape for each chiming of the clock when the long hand strikes midnight – just don’t make the same mistake as many first timers and pick the biggest grapes on the vine. For extra aid to your New Year’s luckiness, peel the skin from the grapes and take the pits out in advance to counteract the cracking of your canines. So, in a city with more celebrations than an NFL end zone dance, what is so special about New Years here? Well first there’s the Puerta del Sol – the Spanish equivalent to the Time Square celebration in NYC. But beware of the crowds - if you want to see the New Year in here, come early, as the surrounding streets will be packed with merrymaking madrileños from an early hour. What else should be on your short list for the night? Well, buy in advance your all-you-candrink tickets to one of the many nightclubs welcoming 2009 in style, and don’t count on public transport, which ends at eight. Also strap on a pair of your best red undergarments for added luck, and be sure to end the night with a hearty helping of chocolate con churros - because after all, you’ve got to have one final meal before starting all those New Year’s resolutions for healthy eating. So cork up the cava, grab a handful of (small) grapes, and robe yourself in your best pair of red undies, and, for the love of it all, don’t trying saying “Happy New Year” until you’ve finished your grapes.

top five Christmas presents of 2008 European Vibe’s

1 Ugg Boots The comfiest and snuggliest sheep derivative you can put on your feet, ugg boots are more fashionable than Santa this Christmas. In addition, it seems they are acceptedly cool for men to wear as well as women for the first time; no longer just the premise of the daring metrosexual. Whichever styles you fancy, they’re the perfect footwear for Madrid’s cold but dry winter. 2 Wii Fit for Nintendo Wii When Nintendo were rubbing their hands with glee last Christmas as shops sold out of the Wii, they couldn’t have hoped it would do it again this year. Yet they will thanks to Wii Fit. The Wii Fit’s pressure sensitive interactive step and the vast array of muscle workouts, yoga poses, aerobic activities and balance games justify the ‘revolutionary’ tag that is all too often banded about. Forget celebrity workout videos, if you can’t get to the gym, get this. Fun and addictive, the one downside is the over-simplistic Body Mass Index method of measuring how appropriate your weight is…

www.europeanvibe.com

3 Apple iPhone 3g It’s beautiful. It’s only got two buttons, all you need apart from that are fingers… This is the ultimate gadget, dwarfing the breakthrough of last year’s first iPhone. Phone, iPod, internet, photo and video camera, GPS… This is the one gift that will have adults staring at with the same longing as children in the toy stores this Christmas. 4 Flip Mino HD Digital Video Camera Handheld digital video cameras have been around for ages, so what? True, but they have never, ever, been as easy to use as this, and this bad boy is not even as long or wide as the iPhone, if slightly thicker. It has a USB connection to plug in and upload what you record instantly, so there’s no faster way to put your videos on youtube if that’s what you want to do. As well as viewing it in handheld, you can also play your high definition recordings back instantly on your TV via the cable included. The best thing about the Flip Mino is you need nothing else to use it, it slips into your pocket, has four hours of battery power and can record an hour of footage. It’s very light, though, so if you’re a shaky hand person, you’ll get shaky videos.

5 Apple iPod Touch Another reason for mugging to remain a fashionable crime, the latest iPod Touch takes portable digital media to new heights seven years after Apple launched the iPod series. Apple boss Steve Jobs has called the iPod Touch, “Training wheels for the iPhone”, because of their similarity in features. Of course, this is an iPod: it’s not a phone and it’s not a camera, but it has wi-fi internet, the iTunes store and it’s lighter. With the Nike+iPod kit, you can take it running and it will measure your training routine. Your old mp3 would be embarrassed in its company.

dec 08

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Madrid agenda compiled in collaboration with esmadrid

what’s on?

vibes

DJ Cosy O’s Urban Review

MARK DEVLIN’S HOT JOINTS

The ten that are blowing up the radio airwaves and rocking dancefloors this month. 1 SHAUN BOOTHE: THE UNAUTHORIZED BIOGRAPHY OF BOB MARLEY (White)

Inspired by Nas’ The Unauthorised Biography of Rakim, this is the second in a twelve-part video series appearing on youtube, each volume paying lyrical homage to a particular black legend, (first was James Brown, next is Muhammad Ali.) Toronto MC Boothe does an admirable job of fitting Marley’s life into a four-minute potted history, which is never short of fascinating.

T.I, KANYE WEST, LIL WAYNE & JAY-Z: SWAGGER LIKE US (Atlantic) 2

Taking a line from MIA’s fascinatingly original Paper Planes as its central sample, any joint that combines the four most talked about US rappers of 2008 was guaranteed to be a hard-hitter, if only for the hype value alone. Happily, this goes further, each MC doing them over the slightly sinister resonant rhythm track.

DAP-C Featuring TALIB KWELI, LIL WAYNE & ROYCE DA 5’9: MA MONEY (White) 2

A killer combination cut of the kind that comes along only rarely these days. Strictly on the underground tip – grimy lyrics over a stark, abrasive, relentlessly rolling beat. Hell, even Wayne sounds vaguely blazing on this!

BEYONCE: SINGLE LADIES/ IF I WERE A BOY (Sony) 3

The Knowles Hitmaking Factory, (powered as much by pops, Matthew, as by Beyonce or Solange

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themselves,) know a trick or two about pulling a catchy girlfriendly club bubbler out of the air, and it can’t have taken long to put all the elements together for Single Ladies. It’s no Crazy In Love, but it’ll get asses shaking and tonsils wobbling. If I Were A Boy, meanwhile, sees B slip into meaningful songwriting territory - even if the same theme was explored only last year on Ciara’s Like A Boy.

LL COOL J: OLD SCHOOL NEW SCHOOL/ IT’S TIME FOR WAR (Def Jam) 4

LL’s quality control may have been patchy at times, but you can’t take away the fact that he’s now been putting out hit records consistently for almost 25 years. Seriously, is there any other artist who can say this? His ’08 album, Exit 13, is a return to hard-hitting form, and these are the two standout cuts. Boom-banging energetic hip hop the way it should have always remained. 5 ESTELLE Featuring SEAN PAUL: COME OVER

Estelle’s style sits comfortably in reggae territory, as evidenced a few times on her excellent Shine album, and this follows No Substitute Love in semi lovers’ rock fashion. Sean Paul’s interjections join with the catchy melody to make this a mainstream winner.

DEVIN THE DUDE: CAN’T MAKE IT HOME (Cinematic) 6

... as opposed to Devlin The Dude, which is of course me. Known primarily as an entertaining sidekick of Dr. Dre, it’s only now that Devin stands to be recognised as an A-list artist in his own right. This certainly

dec 08

does the trick – Nate Dogg-style vocal meanderings about the consequences of a heavy night on the tiles, over a blissfully souledout beat. 7 SIR SMURF LIL: A NEW BLOODLINE (Album) (Grindstone)

Don’t be put off by the nonsensical artist name. The Hackney wordsmith comes with a truly absorbing and mesmeric selection that’s enough to restore any cynic’s belief in the art of real hip hop. Standout cuts are the sublimelyrhythmed Blossom, the surreal Graveyard Shift, and the touchingly poignant The Lord’s Chorus, set to an interpolation of Grace Jones’ Slave To The Rhythm.

TRAEDONYA Featuring PATRA: ALL NIGHT LONG (Prohibition) 8

Jersey City native Trae’s been around for a minute, and was credited with creating the genre of ‘hiphopera’ on her ‘Naked Gun’ of a few years ago. Here, she gives her considerable vocal powerhouse an airing on a cool update of the Rick James/ Mary Jane Girls evergreen, and deserves extra props for re-introducing the world to Patra, the undisputed queen of mid-90s reggae dancehall.

BOBBY VALENTINO: BEEP (DTP) 9

Not too complicated a songwriting formula here, and an Umbrella-style monster it ain’t. But I guess we can be grateful there’s no goddam vocoder all over it! Bobby stays in the familiar twittering midtempo mould for which he’s now known.

10 tunes that you should have been getting down to this month

1 6 2 7 3 8 4 9 5 10 Justin Timberlake Magic

Beyoncé Video Phone

Busy Signal Tic Toc

Q-Tip Move

T.I. feat. Rihanna Live Your Life

Busta Rhymes Arab Money

Kanye West Heartless

T-Pain feat. Lil Wayne Can’t Believe It

Notch feat. Fatman Scoop Lay Away Love

Sean Paul Lace It

> new cd releases 808s and Heartbreaks Kanye West Kanye follows up the impressive Graduation with this latest release. Early signs suggest a lot of experimentation. Lead single Love Lockdown is a definite love it or hate it affair. I loved it! Lil Wayne, Young Jeezy and a Roger Troutman-style voice box help out on tracks. Human Brandy I for one am glad to see Miss Norwood and her beautiful voice back with her fifth release after a four year gap. Producers include the ever present Timbaland, Tim and Bob and Rockwilder. Guest voices include Keri Hilson, Young Berg and Taio Cruz. Right Here (Departed) will be the first single.

Check out where cosy o will be spinning this month at www.djcosyo.com www.europeanvibe.com

december

FOOTBALL RUGBY LEAGUE

SUNDAY 30

Chelsea v Arsenal Man City v Man Utd

Opeth Foals Sala Mynt

MONDAY

1 DEC

8

9

Josh Ritter

Real Madrid v Sevilla BBC Sports Personality

Arsenal v Liverpool Real Madrid v Valencia

Ismael Serrano Cierre de Gira Palacio de Congresos

28 Newcastle v Liverpool

4

23

Shuarma and Alis + La Media Luna

24

Everton v Chelsea lotería

Man Utd v Middlesbrough

1JAN 2009

7

La Noche de Reyes

Día de Reyes

Sala Heineken C Princesa, 1 (www.ticktackticket.com, 90 215 0025) Joy Eslava C Arenal, 11 (913 665 439) Sala El Sol C Jardines 3 Metro: Sol (www.elsolmad.com 91 532 6490) Sala Live Ntra Sra. de Fátima 42 Metro Eugenia de Montijo. (91 525 54 44) Gruta’77 C Cuclillo, 6 (esquina nicolás morales), 28019 Metro: Oporto (91 471 23 70)

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Asian Dub Foundation

Muchachito Bombo Infierno Doctor Deseo

26

27

2

3 Method Man

10

9

Filter + P.O.D Palacio de Deportes de la Comunidad de Madrid Avenida de Felipe II, s/n (www.servicaixa.com 902 33 22 11) La Riviera Pº Bajo de la Virgen del Puerto, (www.servicaixa.com 902 33 22 11) *Venue provisionally closed by city council pending appeal Moby Dick Avda. de Brasil, 5 Metro: Cuzco / Santiago Bernabeu (www.ticktackticket.com, 902 15 00 25) Sala Caracol C Bernardino Obregón 18 ( , 902 15 00 25) Telefónica Arena Madrid Metro: Line 10 (Lago) Line 6 (Alto de Extremadura) www.telefonicaarenamadrid.com

2nd February La Riviera*

Kaiser Chiefs

Tottenham v Man Utd

20

Año Nuevo

8

Bandabardó

19

Canteca de Macao Quique González y La Aristocracia del Barrio

navidad

Nochevieja

6

5

25

31

30

29

Racing Santander v Man City

La Kinky Beat

SATURDAY 6

13

Gogol Bordello The (International) Noise Conspiracy

Yelle

Nochebuena

Stravaganzza Electric Six Light of Day 2008 Benéfico Parkinson

12

18

17

The Whip Vince Neil

22

11

Falamansa Celtas Cortos

John Cale

VNV Nation + SITD + Rotersand

Low Galileo Galilei We are Standard Psychic TV (PTV3) Los Deltonos

Real Madrid v Zenit

Marseille v Atletico Madrid PSV v Liverpool

Barcelona v Real Madrid

21

The Faint New York Dolls Lauren Harris

10

16

15

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 3 4 5

Mastretta Galileo Galilei Skatalites

Liverpool v West Ham

7

14

2

TUESDAY

12th February Palacio de Deportes Comunidad de Madrid

Oasis

Kings of Leon

15th February La Riviera*

dec 08

9

ds r a w vibe a - 2009

S D 9 N 0 E 0 2 G N TI O V 15 JANUARY ibe

2008

e u ro

inspirational madrid - no.3

Dublin - Madrid Garrett Wall

You may well have heard of Garrett Wall and his band as their reputation in Madrid, Spain and beyond continues to soar. Our Inspirational Madrid interviewee has truly had a colourful road to success since leaving the south side of Dublin over nine years ago. interview by Luc Ciotkowski

W

hat made you come here? I guess it was a mixture of things but mainly because of a relationship I was involved in at the time. I also knew there was a chance to continue my music through contacts I had here, but I had actually intended on changing career totally since I was a bit burned out from the music scene in Ireland. Funny how things turn out! I really didn’t know what was going to happen, it was definitely one of the more spontaneous decisions of my life but I’m very glad I did it. Were your first years here much different from how your life is now? Yes, the first few years here were definitely different and tougher since I was learning the language and trying to deal with missing family and friends. However, until you learn to be happy on your own I don’t think you can fit in anywhere, be it your home country or not. Although I’d intended on finding a new path in life, what

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dec 08

eventually happened was that I started to develop a good career singing and writing jingles for TV, which in turn led into cinema soundtrack work as well. I found a way of expressing myself here, which I didn’t have in Ireland; a personal liberation which eventually worked it’s way into my music. I now feel I’ve found my place, thanks in large part to the friends I’ve made through music and particularly the members of the band; Howard, Robbie and Dave, we’re a close-knit bunch. We’re currently promoting our first album, Sky Pointing, and are constantly touring to promote it. A few other things happened which also helped make me feel more rooted and at home here. My sister, Susan, moved over and married a Spanish guy she’d met while visiting me (my mum still doesn’t forgive me for that!) and that really heightened my sense of belonging. The first few years may have been tough and at times I felt totally out to

sea, but when you start from zero that’s always going to be the case. It was the best decision I’d ever made but wasn’t so easy to see at the time. It would be hard to imagine myself in any other place now. Aside from your music, what other work have you been involved in here in Madrid? When I first came to Madrid I was teaching English, but over the years I’ve had a go at a few things from waitering to even writing about music. A more recent development, which has been both unexpected and refreshing, is working as a dubbing and voice-over artist. I’ve been mainly dubbing Spanish movies into English for Iberia but I’ve also done some narration and overdubs for adverts. I’m a big fan of cinema, so when I got the chance to dub for a major movie I was really thrilled. The movie was called La Conjura de Escorial and starred Jason Isaac, Jordi Mollá and Julia Ormond among others. My job was to dub the voice of Spanish actor Pablo Puyol, whose accent the producers wanted improved, so it was a buzz to be putting my voice on his and hear him (me) interact with these great actors. What I really want to do is direct, though, ha ha! My last job was a cartoon called The Missing Lynx which is currently being presented in LA for worldwide distribution.

How has your life in Madrid affected you personally? Well, I drink a lot more wine than I used to! No, seriously, I think I’ve learned to be more independent and self-reliant and probably less vulnerable to outside influence. Madrid has more people than my entire country but there is a certain pueblo vibe to the place, which is comforting. I love the big open spaces and parks for running and just getting out into the sun. When I first came here I had been suffering from anxiety from living in Ireland and this place just made me feel new. It’ s great to come somewhere that allows you to just be you instead of having reinvent yourself and that’s certainly how I felt. I think I always had to come here but just didn’t know it till I came. I’ve a great circle of friends and colleagues and am very grateful to have been accepted both personally and professionally by so many people. What are your plans for the future and when can we see you next in Madrid? The album is being released in the US in January so we hope to travel there for a tour some time in early 2009. We’ll shortly start recording our next album which we’re very excited about and in the meantime, we plan to release, in digital format at least, an album of ten unreleased songs which span the last ten years or so, called Ships on the Rocks and will include some real gems. Our next performance will be in Galicia with John Cale of Velvet If you know interestUnderground ing former or current Madrid residents, fame and we’re send us the details at putting together this email address some intimate [email protected] shows in Madrid for December.

The Garrett Wall Band’s first album, Sky Pointing, is available on iTunes and at www.mondegreenrecords.com See www.garrettwall.net for concert details

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travel

euro weekender

Paris, I love you!

P Paris

With Christmas upon us, the city of gourmets and connoisseurs is putting on its most chic outfit. Just mention your upcoming weekend trip to Paris and everyone around you will instantly get a dreamy look in their eyes. The world’s most popular tourist destination, stuffed with historical landmarks, high-class shopping and must sees, is just waiting to sweep you off your feet.

matter? Café Angelina (226 Rue de Rivoli) was Coco Chanel’s old hangout. She always, peculiarly enough, had hot coco, and a Mont Blanc pastry. The place is always crowded but well worth a visit. The French capital is the world’s most popular tourist destination. After museums and monuments, shopping in Paris is one of the biggest attractions. There are several highend department stores where there should be no problem finding Christmas gifts, and the wrapping will certainly not be disappointing. Bon Marché, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps will all give you a good start. Another shopping Mecca is Colette (Rue Saint-Honoré 213), always first with the newest fashions. For some high-class window shopping, visit the golden triangle of the streets Avenue Montaigne, Ave Géorges V, and Rue François 1e, where the top fashion houses are gathered, offering limousine service right outside the doors. Paris is filled with high fashion at even higher prices, and as a direct consequence, the Parisians have made shopping into an art form of their own. Here

the creativity pays off rather then a thick wallet. However, that fact is impossible to ignore once you are standing in one of those fancy boutiques, where you know you should never have placed a foot in the first place. You are examine the inner lining on that the immaculately tailored coat, throw a discreet glimpse at the price tag, and discover just a couple of zeroes too many. Buying a coat more expensive then one month’s rent would be plain insane. So, if you don’t feel like waiting until the sales in January try the vintage trail. Stop by ever so popular and trendsetting Kiliwatch (64 rue Tiquetonne), where designers come to shop for inspiration as they are planning their upcoming collections. In the 16th arrondissement, close to the Eiffel Tower, you will find the largest second hand shop for vintage brands: Réciproque (95 Rue de la Pompe). This is where the posh madams drop off their old garments, used only a few times. The prices can still seem a bit high, though, at least compared to H&M. Didn’t I say that Paris is a place for dreamers?

travel

Short guide to Paris

Get here: Vueling, EasyJet and Air Europa all have direct flights. Locate yourself: The River Seine flows from West to East, just like the street numbers. The longer you distance yourself from the river, north or south, the higher the numbers. The arrondissements are numbered in a clockwise swirl moving out from the centre. Bring here: A smart outfit. The key to good service is dressing sharp, and acting the part. Remember: If you are shopping for clothes, try one size bigger than you normally wear, as French sizes tend to be smaller. Take home: vintage bargains, a timeless little black dress or a well-fitted jacket. Avoid: The shopping areas around Montmartre, unless you are looking for light-blinking Eiffel Tower miniatures or Paris Je t’aime T-shirts. Look out for: Dog dirt. Even though there are fines for leaving it on the curb, the French rarely pick up after their beloved pets and the streets of Paris are among the filthiest in Europe. Reading tip: If you think the bureaucracy in Spain is bad, and habits and cultural differences puzzle you, pick up a copy of A year in the merde by Stephen Clarke.

WORDS by Linn Treijs

aris is a place for us dreamers; it is life as it should be. Handsome women with an enviable sense of style. Perfectly baked and shaped baguettes and croissants (hey, it’s no coincidence that French bakeries are spread all over the world). Lousy waiters serving red wine at lunchtime. A beam of sunlight reflecting in the River Seine. Or even the thick grey sky that doesn’t bother you, just because it’s the thick grey sky over Paris. All surrounded by romantic scenery, always on the verge of cliché… Check out Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s modern classic Amelie of Montmartre and you’ll get it. I had my fair share of “life as it should be” on my first trip. As a star-struck 19-year-old, I came to Paris on the Inter Rail tour, expecting to be swept away. And boy, did Paris have a surprise for me. A modelling agency had decided to house all of their male models in our hotel. Do I even need to say it: Paris, je t’aime! With all its perfect picture postcard potential, Paris is also your ideal destination at Christmas time. What is already a very pretty city, with lots of interesting architecture to absorb, outshines itself with the explosion of colour

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dec 08

from the Christmas lights. The Christmas markets are plenty, and offer everything from your usual homemade candy, to cheese and wooden toys. Try the one in Place Saint Sulpice if you are looking for regional handicrafts, and don’t miss the beautiful surroundings in the Latin Quarter. The church here is the second largest in Paris, after the Notre Dame. It had an important role in Dan Brown’s bestseller The Da Vinci Code, and is now a tourist pit stop. Another market, Notre Dame Maison de l’Alsace, on the Champs-Elysées, is clearly influenced by the famous Christmas Fair in Alsace – the biggest one in Europe. For a bite of true Christmas spirit, don’t miss out on the traditional delicacies pain d’épices and vin chaud (French ginger-bread and warm red wine with spices). Most markets are open from late November until the beginning of January. Christmas or not, you can hardly visit Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. It was named after Gustave Eiffel, the architect who designed it, and was built for the World Expo in Paris of 1889. The

plan was to take it down again 20 years later and the Parisians never became too fond of the iron tower that they thought changed the cityscape. But then came World War I, and the armed forces decided to keep it: the 300-metrehigh monument came to good use as a radio antenna. If you plan on going up the stairs, it’s better to come early in the morning, as the queues tend to grow longer with every hour. With only a few days in Paris, it’s all too easy to get caught in the tourist traps and just as easy to see why. Notre Dame, Sacré Coeur with its unique view over Paris, and the impressive Arc of Triumph, are huge attractions. Not to mention The Louvre, which attracts millions of visitors a year, most of them just to get a glimpse of that mysterious Mona Lisa smile. In between, try to take the time to see some other parts of the city, like the eye-catching Centre Pompidou, with its exterior escalator. If you are into modern and contemporary art, this museum is highly recommended. The small square just in front is also a popular stage for performance artists. After a morning of sightseeing, why not spoil yourself with a proper afternoon tea, or coffee for that

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travel

San Sebastián Donostia

I

f there’s one thing about Basques, it’s that they’re always trying to convert you to their football team, usually with bribes. So far, I’ve been given the jerseys of Athletic de Bilbao, Alavés and Osasuna by friends from the area. (Though controversy rages about whether Osasuna is a Basque team, despite the Euskera name.) Back in the Barras market in Glasgow a few years back, I asked whether the blue and white jersey with a crown design and a bad smell was Real Sociedad’s. “Dinnae ken, pal” (I don’t know), said the stall owner. It was only seven pounds so I risked it. Turns out it was Recreativo de Huelva! Sociedad hails from the stunning location of Donostia-San Sebastián (its full Basque-Spanish name). Some of the most spectacular scenery in Iberia is in and around this city and some of the best food too. If you want to find out about food, sports and

Donostiarras were happy at the liberation. It was thought of as a bit of an avant-garde place in the early 20th Century. At this time, famous people like Leon Trotsky and Mata Hari were seen roaming the streets. And despite Franco’s suppression of Basque culture during his time in charge, he enjoyed holidaying here during his dictatorship.

So what is there to do? The prestigious San Sebastián Film Festival has its home here and has had many famous guests, including Alfred Hitchcock, Harrison Ford and, this year, Meryl Streep. The old part of the city is Meryl Streep full of bars Martin Quinn takes us to San Sebastián, and the Basque bar crawl, the Txikiteo, is at its zenith here. reputedly the home of the best food in In September, there is a week the Peninsula, the high end of Spanish of events celebrating Basque culture, with sports contests like holidaymaking, and a world-famous film Pelota Vasca and stone lifting, festival, via the rather less glamorous stop-off or Harrijasotzaileak, being held. There is also a bizarre fiesta on point of the Glasgow Barrowland Market. 20 January when WORDS by Martin Quinn there is a constant tragedy in the Basque Country, The film, directed by San drumthere are some great sources of Sebastián native, director ming reference. One of these is Mark Julio Medem explains the procesKurlansky’s book The Basque contrived politics of the sion Harrijasotzaileak History of the World, a quirky but area. This is against a backthrough serious look at the strange culdrop of stunning aerial shots, the town. It dates back to the ture and politics of the Basques. haunting Basque music and the previously mentioned NapoIt is cut intermittently with local game, Basque Ball. (Sort of leonic War incident. During local recipes and describes the like Squash or Irish Handball, the French occupation, mock importance of gastronomy to the with a wooden scoop.) If you parades lampooning the French culture, especially in Donostia. were to ignore the politics that were held by locals. This is Apparently, the mayor has the are explained in the film, you considered one of the most duty of dining practically every would still be blown away by the important fiestas in the city. You night in a different restaurant in scenery, especially in Donostia. can also go to the local Anoeta the city during his tenure. The La Concha Bay is beautiful, stadium and see some football, boozy Basques have large cider dotted with several islands and in the form of the now second restaurants all around Donostia’s adorned with a beautiful beach. division Real Sociedad. Estadio province, Gipuzkoa (Guipúzcoa), The old city is mostly adorned Anoeta also hosts occasional where steaks and non-sparkling with 19th Century architecture Heineken Cup rugby games so as cider are served. Gastronomic as it was rebuilt after British and to accommodate French Basque societies or, Txokos, are very Portuguese forces looted and rugby giants Biarritz. popular and the city is the destroyed it in 1813, birthplace of these comduring the Napoleonic All in all, it’s a charming, beautimunal cooking clubs. Wars. They liberated ful place and a bus can be taken the city from French there from Avenida de America Another reference for occupiers, then went station. Renfe also goes from the Basque universe is berserk and wrecked Atocha and Chamartin stations the film La Pelota Vasca: the city, despite the so a train is also an option. You Skin against Stone. fact that the locals, the can also get a flight there as it has a small airport close by. The operator from Madrid is Air Nostrum, an Iberian Airlines franchise. It’s an easy place to get to from Madrid, though it is quite a journey. So, for some of the best food and scenery in Iberia, head Basqueward for stunning San Sebastián.

La Concha Bay is beautiful, dotted with several islands and adorned with a beautiful beach. 16

dec 08

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Yes, there does seem to be quite the lopsided Pir‡mides ratio of elderly, in fact they seem to crawl the streets like a frantically furious hill of ants, but 11there is quite a bit of solid nightlife here as well. For those of you beer enthusiasts out Usera there, Trafalgar has something unique to offer in the form of German bars. Take a stroll down Of course, this is an awful lot for one to do in to just one day, so take your time and do your bit LAZAc/ Cardenal Cisneros and you’ll be fortunate LEGAZPI – just watch out where you’re PTICAfind a seat at several of these joints, which offer of wandering Almendrales Abrantes to the brew master in all of us a smorgasbord going so as to avoid sidewalk collisions with deif life-long Octubre of interesting imports and creative craft brews. our more Hospital senior residents.12 But hey, Panfavourite Bendito My personal has to be L’Europe. madrileños choose to retire here, shouldn’t that San Ferm’n-Orcasur Further San to northFrancisco off of c/ Luchana are several tell you something?

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A universe of flavours! More than 100 San Crist—bal combinations and the VILLAVERDE ALTO greatest variety of liquors from all over the world 3(Absente, Sambuca, Stroh, Mezcal…) and the original way to drink 12them.

LA PESETA

Conde de Casal

>

Ciudad de los ‡ngeles

Carabanchel Alto

Conservatorio

Simancas

Pavones

>

‘Step back in history to the only Arabic baths in Madrid’ Over 300 years old, located in the heart of the city centre Come and relax in our thermal baths with soothing oriental music and traditional Arabic decor.

Garc’a Noblejas

6

further without mentioning my own personal Atocha vice – ice cream. There are three parlours Travel EMBAJADORES Atocha Renfe in Trafalgar, all with outdoor seating (not Cosmopolia p.17 applicablePalos now, of course, Vueling p.15 de thanks to good ol’ Men�ndez Pelayo Jack Frost).laMyFrontera top choice is Bajo Cero on the northern corner of Plaza de Quevedo for some Books taste bud Delicias tantalizing and tongue-numbingly Arganzuela- Bookworld p.31 tasty treats. Planetario

probably been in my neighbourhood.

Juli‡n Besteiro

Ascao

2

My Metro

the reader, then you’ve adilloroll of the eyes fromACACIAS

18

5

>Restaurants

SOL

de dos

9

>Leisure

R

Arroyo Culebro

Tribunal

Noviciado

My Metro

Open New Year’s Eve from 1am

Alonso Martínez

7

Cartagena 22

Anyway p.18 Answer English p.33 Fabulous p.35 Celtic Cross Rub�n p.19 American Language Academy p.32 Fever p.13 SAN Nò„EZ 2 Chupito Sabor p.18 Carpe Diem p.33 Vibe! The Party p.36 As far as food Dar’o BERNARDO DE BALBOA 10 Dubliners p.5 Lingo Bongo p33 Sugar p.2 goes, come Irish Rover p.23 Hot English p.33 Supersonic p.9 to Trafalgar MANUEL 7 Kabokla p.9 Ventura International House p.32 BILBAO on an empty Moore’s p.19 Madrid4Students p.32 BECERRA Rodr’guez El Carmen 3 O’Connell Street p.25 Lista ften referred to simply as stomach. For the One 2 One p.32 8 O’Reilly’s p.27 Training Express p.32 Chamberi, the often overlooked wandering tapas Shamrocks p.25 neighbourhood is crowd, check VENTAS Quintana PLAZA DE of Trafalgar Star Studio p.17 NOVICIADO sandwiched between the metros of out the highly underrated Plaza de Olavide Vel‡zquez Col—n TRIBUNAL ESPA„A Shooters p.17 Alonso Martinez, San Bernardo, Alonso Cano, – a circularly shaped park that’s bordered on 1st4footballtickets.com p.26 GOYA and Canal. Within its borders lies a plethora all sides by nearly a dozen different bars and Medina Mayrit p.19 LA ELIPA Serrano Yelmo cinemas p.23 of palate pleasing possibilities, a slew of cafés that’s great in warm weather, but also ALONSO Basilicco p.21 cervecerías and cinemas, and a solid selection blocks the winter windChueca on those particularly MARTêNEZ Circus Noodle Bar p.21 of shopping streets. And at itsSanto center is Plaza polar yet stubbornly sunny madrileño 14 Cubik p.21 PRêNCIPE OÕDonnell 48 Curry’s p.20 Olavide, with eight different streets snaking afternoons. One needn’t look far for a meal, Domingo DE VERGARA Curry House p.20 off in all directions like spider legs on either – Trafalgar is freckled like a GRAN Estragon p.21 a street map. leopard withVêA restaurant after l Guru p.20 restaurant, mostly of the SAINZ DE BARANDA Il Piccolino Della Farfalla p.20 As for the 150,000 Spanish persuasion. Ibiza CALLAO La CuevaBanco del Faisán p.20 There are, however, Sevilla La Farfalla p.20 Retiro de Espa–a dura inhabitants of Trafalgar, îPERA La Herradura p.20 well, there are plenty of some more international No.2 La Tía Cebolla p.21 elderly to go around. I’m sure that at Quevedo flavoured establishments Las Batuecas p.21 one time or another, during a particularly dotted around in the shape of Estrella 19 Hard Rock p.20 Latina hurried metro dash,La you’ve no doubt wanted to Japanese, Italian, Turkish, Thai and Indian. Medina Mayrit p.21 de break through the chain of old ladies walking For my personal pick, make a stop in Bósforos, Tirso Miranda p.21Molina Vinateros Mr India p.20 arm in arm like an aggressive fourth grader where one can enjoy a reasonably priced jarra Puerta Parque na 22 Siam p.21 Ant—n Mart’n during a friendly game ‘red rover’. Well, if that of beer and an expertly crafted kebab doble de ofToledo Artilleros del Retiro Taj p.20 description has warranted an all too knowing con queso. And of course, I cannot go on any Toma p.21 rqu�s Lavapi�s

asa Reloj

20

Sol

CANAL

Islas Filipinas Quevedo

Alfonso XIII

Cruz del Rayo

Callao

Sto. Domingo

Happy Xmas

Celebrate New years with us

GUTS FUSSION

c/Gutiérrez Solana, 6 Tel: 91 561 5668 Bernabéu OPEN 11AM-5PM.

MOORE’S LA CUEVA BAR DE COPAS, THURSDAYS, FRIDAY & SATURDAY DJs. CHART MUSIC. WE ORGANISE PRIVATE PARTIES www.guts.es Come and try our special Christmas menu

dec 08

19

What do you fancy tonight?

food

eat out guide

American Hard Rock Cafe Madrid has undergone a complete memorabilia redecoration, with dozens of new items commemorating the history of rock now on display.  On Tuesday, 16 December, in celebration of the redecoration, the Madrid Café will host an exclusive live VIP performance.   Hard Rock Cafe Madrid offers the genuine American food and we create an authentic dining experience in a rock ‘n’ roll atmosphere: live music and museum. Open every day: 12:30- 03:00 am Tel:+ 00 34 91 436 43 40 www.hardrock.com

Colón/Serrano

Alfredo’s Barbacoa Lagasca, 5 ( Retiro). Tel: 91 576 6271 Juan Hurtado de Mendoza, 11 ( Cuzco). Tel: 91 576 6271 Foster’s Hollywood Magallanes, 1 ( San Bernardo). Tel: 91 445 6110 Pl. Isabel II, 3 ( Ópera). Tel: 91 542 3172 Princesa, 13 ( Pl. España). Tel: 91 559 1914 Gédeca, 6 ( Alonso Martínez). Tel: 91 310 2369 Ribs Abada, 8 ( Callao). Tel: 91 884 3728 Peggy Sue’s Amaniel, 20 ( Ventura Rodríguez). Tel: 91 521 8560 T.G.I. Friday’s Gran Vía, 76 ( Gran Vía). Tel: 91 275 9492 Tony Roma’s Gédeca, 17 ( Alonso Martínez). Tel: 91 310 1488

Mexican /Tex-Mex

Mister India

Plaza de la Provincia, 3 Sol/Antón Martin Lavapies Plaza de Lavapies, 5

Brand new Indian restaurant located in the Heart of Madrid. Traditional Punjab dishes served by friendly Indian staff. Call for details of special Bollywood dancing shows performed in the restaurant. Open 1-4pm and 8pm-midnight. Tel: 91 523 4570 www.currys.es

Curry’s Indian Restaurant c/ Silva, 16

San Bernardo/Plaza de España

Callao

Traditional Indian restaurant- offering a variety of rich Indian cuisine infused with the best authentic ingredients. Located in the centre of Madrid and open daily 1-4 pm and 8-12 pm. Set menu available everyday from 1-4 pm for 9.95€. Tel: 91 360 0706 www.gurumadrid.es

Guru Indian Restaurant c/ Echegaray 21

Sol/ Sevilla

Traditional Spanish food, in a traditional Spanish atmosphere, with flamenco music and a terrace right in the centre of Madrid. Try the typical “croquetas de jamón” or the house speciality “Don Paco” dish. Open all day from 10am to 2am. Tel: 91 522 9050

La Tía Cebolla c/ de la Cruz, 27

Sol

Enjoy typical Andalusian food, original décor, oriental dance shows and a cultural fusion every day of the year… Not to be missed!! Tel: 90 233 3334 www.medinamayrit.com

Medina Mayrit c/ Atocha, 14

Sol/Tirso de Molina

Bazaar San Marcos, 35 ( Chueca). Tel: 91 523 1505 Casa Mingo Paseo de la Florida, 34 ( Príncipe Pío). Tel: 91 547 7918 En Busca del Tiempo Barcelona, 4 ( Sol). Tel: 91 521 9801 La Burbuja que Ríe Ángel, 16 ( La Latina). Tel: 91 366 5167 La Cueva del Faisán Espoz y Mina,15 ( Sol). Tel: 676 287 654 A Cuerpo De Rey Hilarión Eslava, 27 ( Moncloa). Tel: 91 549 4338

Spanish Tapas La Casa del Abuelo Victoria, 12 ( Sol). Tel: 91 521 2319 Malaspina Cádiz, 9 ( Sol). Tel: 91 523 4024

Modern/International Cuisine

Argentinian

Basilicco c/ Santa Teresa, 12

Mediterranean Cuisine Kranc Paseo de la Chopera, 132 ALCOBENDAS. Tel: 91 662 4114

Chinese El Dragón Barbieri, 17 ( Chueca). Tel: 91 522 7272 House Of Ming Pº de la Castellana, 74 ( G Marañón). Tel: 91 561 9827 Tse Yang Pº Castellana, 22 ( Ruben Dario). Tel: 91 431 1888 Yuán Velázquez, 87 ( Nuñez de Balboa). Tel: 91 522 7272 Ciudad Feliz Fernández de los Ríos, 75 ( Moncloa). Tel: 91 549 9573 Yuán Velázquez, 87 ( Nuñez de Balboa). Tel: 91 522 7272 Zen Central Puigcerdá, 6 ( Serrano). Tel: 91 431 1233

Mixed Oriental Buddha del Mar Carretera de la Coruña, Km 8,700 Tel: 91 357 5275 Entre Occidente y Oriente Ayalá, 17 ( Colón). Tel: 91 426 0843 Golden Seal López de Hoyos, 327 ( Pinar Del Rey). Tel: 91 388 6166 Indochina Barquillo, 10 ( Chueca). Tel: 91 524 0318 The Wok San Marcos, 31 ( Chueca). Tel: 91 531 6979 Castello, 117 ( Avenida de America). Tel: 91 411 2918

Chinese Barely a year old but already a favourite for many in the district of de las Letras. With a menu catered for everyone’s taste offering tempting and varied food. Very good wines and a list of classic cocktails. Open daily from 1pm-2am. (Fri & Sat until 2:30am) Tel: 91 369 1025

Enjoy a wide variety of traditional Indian cuisine. With over 40 dishes to choose from, you will be spoilt for choice. Open daily 1-4 pm and 8.30-11.30 pm. Set menu and take away food available. www.restaurantetaj.com

Taj

c/ Cruz 13 Sol/Sevilla. Tel: 91 522 3595 c/ Marqués De Cubas 6 Banco de España. Tel: 91 531 5059 / 91 521 63 27

Centrally located Argentinian steak house with a rustic, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy traditional Argentinian cuisine such as pizza, pasta, and grilled meat. Variety of vegetarian options available. Open every day ‘til late. Average price 15/20€ per head, lunch menu only 9,50€. Il Piccolino Della Farfalla Tel: 91 369 4391 La Farfalla Tel: 91 369 4691 Il Piccolino Della Farfalla c/ Huertas, 6 Antón Martín La Farfalla c/ Santa María, 17 Antón Martín

Miranda c/ Huertas, 29

Chueca/Alonso Martínez

Cubik c/ Aduana,12

Japanese

“Let’s Noodle” Madrid’s very first noodle bar. Fast, healthy and fun food served in the heart of Madrid’s Chueca district, in a pleasant and modern atmosphere. Take-away service available. Open Mon- Sun 1pm-1am. Tel: 91 522 3333

Sol/Antón Martin

New, modern restaurant located in the heart of Madrid. Fresh, vibrant atmosphere and bright, comfortable surroundings. Very reasonably priced. Monday to Saturday, 1pm to 4pm and 8pm to midnight. (Saturdays 1.30pm opening) Tel: 91 523 0481

Bright, colourfully furnished Indian restaurant located in Madrid’s trendy Chueca area. Open since 1985, it is a busy little place and quite reasonably priced at around 18/20€ per head. 3 course lunch or “menu del día” is served from 1.30pm- 4.30pm, dinner from 8.30pm- 12.30am. Open every day. Tel: 91 391 4586

Taj Mahal c/ Belén, 12

Circus Noodle Bar c/ Libertad, 13

El Estragón Pl. Paja, 10 Madrid de los Austrias

20

dec 08

La Latina

Annapurna Zurbano, 5 ( Alonso Martínez). Tel: 91 319 8716 Arga Isabel la Católica, 9 ( Santo Domingo). Tel: 91 542 2756 Bombay Palace Fernán González, 54 ( Ibiza). Tel: 91 574 1930 Delhi Duque de Osuna, 6 ( Plaza de España). Tel: 91 542 8451 Ganga Alameda, 6 ( Atocha). Tel: 91 369 4273 Guru Echegaray, 21 ( Sevilla). Tel: 91 360 0706 Moharaj Buenavista, 42 ( Lavapies). Tel: 91 528 5289 / 91 539 2829 Passage to India Ave María, 18 ( Antón Martin). Tel: 91 527 1787 Tandoori Station Jose Ortega y Gasset, 89 ( Lista/Manuel Becerra). Tel: 91 401 2228

www.europeanvibe.com

Chueca

Ayala Japón Ayala, 67 ( Lista). Tel: 91 309 5625 Furama Paseo de la Florida, 2 ( Príncipe Pío). Tel: 91 548 7658

Thai

Sol/Sevilla

Indian A pleasant surprise for non-vegetarians. Rustic, Andalusian tavern-style décor, extensive and surprisingly tasty menu. Located in the heart of the bustling La Latina area. Open every day, 1pm- 4.30pm, 8pm-12.30pm. Tel: 91 365 8982

Alonso Martinez

El Dragón Barbieri, 17 ( Chueca). Tel: 91 522 7272 Tse Yang Pº Castellana, 22 ( Rubén Darío). Tel: 91 431 1888

Cuban

Vegetarian

Enjoy typical Italian cuisine in a modern baroque restaurant. Very central location in a cool going-out area. Ideal for group bookings, events, birthdays, stag and hen nights. Day 13:30-16:30, evening from 20:30 Tuesday-Sunday. Specialised in pizza a la parrilla, pastas, meats and fish. SPECIAL OFFER: 15% discount Sunday-Thursday evenings Tel: 91 308 0102 [email protected]

Pizza Marzano Gran Vía, 69 ( Gran Vía). Tel: 91 541 8916 Pinocchio P.º Eduardo Dato, 5 ( Iglesia). Tel: 91 593 9927 Zurbano, 6 ( Alonso Martínez). Tel: 91 310 3171 Gaztambide, 3 ( Argüelles). Tel: 91 543 0649 Pizza Marzano Gran Vía, 69 ( Gran Vía). Tel: 91 541 8916

Basilicco Santa Teresa, 12 ( Alonso Martinez). Tel: 91 308 0102 El Gaucho Tetuán, 34 ( Sol). Tel: 91 522 4793 La Vaca Argentina Bailén, 20 ( La Latina). Tel: 91 365 6654 Tocororo Prado, 3 ( Sevilla). Tel: 91 369 4000 Centro Cubano Claudio Cuello, 41 ( Serrano). Tel: 91 575 8279 La Cabaña Ventura de la Vega, 10 ( Sevilla). Tel: 91 420 1741

food Italian

Brand new Indian restaurant in Madrid! Exquisite Indian cuisine, in a stunning and central location, right beside Madrid’s famous Plaza Mayor. Terrace now open. Tel: 913 669 099 Mob: 662 503 469

Experience our traditional Mexican cuisine in an authentic atmosphere. In a relaxed environment enjoy one of our specialities, the fajitas, mixtas and prawn tacos. With space for large groups, there is fun for everyone! Open Mon-Thurs: 1pm-4pm and 8pm-12pm, Friday to Sunday: 1pm-4pm and 8pm to 1:30 am. Tel: 91 542 3936 www.cantinalaherradura.com.es

La Herradura c/ Montserrat, 32

eat out guide Spanish

Indian

Hard Rock Cafe Pº de la Castellana, 2

What do you fancy tonight?

Creative cuisine in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Lunch served Tuesday to Friday, Dinner served Tuesday to Saturday, brunch served on Sundays. Tel: 91 547 4996

Toma c/ Conde Duque, 14

Plaza de España

www.europeanvibe.com

Authentic Thai cuisine, in exotic, intimate surroundings. Good service, friendly atmosphere. English menu available. Extensive à la carte menu, lunch and evening specials. Open 12-4pm and 8pm-12pm. Non-smoking. Tel: 91 559 8315

SIAM c/ San Bernardino, 6

Plaza de España/Noviciado

The Thai Gardens Jorge Juan, 5 ( Colón). Tel: 91 577 8884 Café Saigón María de Molina, 4 ( Gregorio Marañón). Tel: 91 563 1566

dec 08

21

new movie releases

WORDS by PETER MOORE

film first

film first ORIGINAL VERSION >Renoir Plaza de España Address: Martín de los Heros, 12 CINEMAS (V.O.) Tel: 915 414 100 & 902 229 122 Zone: Central >Alphaville Golem Price: Mon-Fri 6.50 €. Sat & Sun 6.80 €

Seth Rogen in Pineapple Express

Address: Martín de los Heros, 14 Tel: 915 593 836 Zone: Central Price: 6.80 € Metro: Plaza de España (Lines 3 & 10)

>Pequeño Cine Estudio

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Release Date: 5 December 2008 Spanish title: Superfumados

It’s a phenomenon in any kind of artistic success that discovering what it was that made you successful presents the dilemma: carry on doing what was successful, or go back to the drawing board and try to be successful in a different way?

Spanish title: Superfumados Director: David Gordon Green Cast: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Danny R. McBride, Gary Cole, Rosie Perez, Amber Heard, James Remar

What, I wonder, are the first notable signs of ageing? Is it getting annoyed when your housemates return knives and forks in the cutlery drawer the wrong way round? Becoming obsessive about getting your left iPod headphone into the corresponding ear hole? Or perhaps it is writing long, gushing eulogies about authors like Charles Dickens (see page 31) for a hip publication in Madrid, where the readership would much prefer to read about writers like Irvine Welsh or Hunter S. Thompson?

Win!

Ok. I’m becoming a grumpy, particular, Englishman. I know it. And I finally resigned myself to that fate whilst writing this article about Pineapple Express.

Pineapple Express, for those of you that haven’t yet five cinema spotted the adverts, is the latest Hollywood film to tickets for you and star Seth Rogen, Hollywood’s new favourite actor. He your friends! is a different type of hero. He’s not defined by good Yelmo Cine Ideal, the biggest original language cinema in looks, rippling muscles, sharp intellect, or a sinister Madrid, are giving away five Italian accent; he is, in fact, a bit of an antithesis: a free tickets to see a film of your choice at their theatre touch overweight, a flicker of red in his curly unkempt in Calle Doctor Cortezo. All you have to do is answer the hair - aesthetically something of a genetic mash up following question: between Rivers Cuomo out of Weezer, and Yogi Bear Which part did Seth Rogen originally out of Jellystone Park. write for himself in Pineapple Express?

Send your answers and contact details in an email entitled “Yelmo Film Competition” to [email protected] before 20 December 2008. Good luck to you all!

22

He was marked as an emerging talent with his appearance in Judd Apatow’s 2005 comedy, The Forty Year Old Virgin. And it was in this film that he developed the persona that was to bring him so much subsequent success. He played the role of an underachieving electronics store assistant with a

dec 08

fondness for marijuana, bottled beer and abstract musings. Commercial success followed. Rogen forged a close working relationship with Apatow which spawned a number of major releases, notably Superbad and Knocked Up. The latter saw him largely reprising the role of the dim-witted, pot-smoking layabout, whose personal moment of epiphany came when, in his single act of physical exertion, he managed to get his co-star Katherine Heigl pregnant. Knocked Up was a roaring commercial success for him and Apatow. It elevated the pair to the lofty status of Hollywood A-listers, it was nominated for a clutch of awards and it brought home a total gross revenue of something around $220,000,000. It was his Dick Whittington moment; he had hit the big time. By the end of 2008, Apatow and Rogen seem to hold the middle ground in cinematic comedy, a position that previously was filled by Will Ferrell and Vince Vaughn and, before them, by the American Pie generation. He can now expect around six million dollars for each film appearance; and his dumb, hopeless characters, with their monotonous, irrelevant verbal deliveries, have found favour right across mainstream America. Pineapple Express heralds his return in the familiar role of

an underachieving stoner. This time the plot revolves around a bungled gangland execution, which is inadvertently witnessed by his character Dale Denton. Swiftly fleeing the scene, Denton manages to incriminate himself by leaving the smouldering embers of a joint behind him. Not so much a smoking gun, as a smoking spliff - and with the strain of cannabis sufficiently rare to be traced - the scene is set for the ‘mobsters versus the munchies’ battle that follows.

Release Date: 19 December 2008 Spanish title: Charlie Bartlett

>Princesa

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Please note: details of all films are correct at the time of publication.

The OneTrick Pony?

Release Date: 12 December 2008 Spanish title: Ultimatum a la Tierra

Address: Calle de la Princesa, 3 Tel: 915 414 100 & 902 888 902 Zone: Moncloa-Aravaca Price: Mon-Fri 6.20 €. Sat & Sun 6.80 € Metro: Plaza de España (Lines 3 & 10), Ventura Rodríguez (Line 3)

>Renoir Cuatro Caminos

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Release Date: 19 December 2008 Spanish title: El Valiente Despereaux

Release Date: 25 December 2008 Spanish title: Mi ciudad grita

Release Date: 9 January 2008 Spanish title: RocknRolla

For me, Rogen’s formula is wearing a little thin. There’s always the danger of being typecast, and he is running the risk of being remembered by history as the ‘useless stoner’- and regardless of how many Homer Simpson moments of clarity he experiences, I can’t imagine that his mother will be pleased with that. And maybe it is me growing older, but his breed of humour is getting a little boring. Just like hanging out with people who smoke far too much dope: it’s fun for a while, but it soon becomes incredibly dull, as the conversation becomes stale and you spend far too much time discussing whether The Beatles were better than The Stones, or whether or not the Chinese shop in La Plaza de Bilbao sells the best hotdogs in town. So, Seth Rogen: one trick pony, or cutting edge comedian? I’ll leave it up to you.

Address: Magallanes, 1 Tel: 914 472 920 Zone: Chamberi Price: 6.50 € Metro: Quevedo (Line 2)

Desde el Teatro La Scala de Milán En Directo Vía Satélite y en Alta DefiniciónOpera Inaugural de la Temporada 2008-2009 de La Scala Yelmo Cines continúa con su exitosa temporada de “Opera en el Cine” y presenta

“DON CARLO” de Giuseppe.Verdi Domingo 7 de Diciembre a las 18:00

Address: Raimundo Fernández Villaverde, 10 Tel: 915 414 100 & 902 229 122 Zone: Chamberi Price: Mon-Fri 6.50 €. Sat & Sun 6.80 € Metro: Cuatro Caminos (Lines 1, 2 & 6)

Metro: Plaza de España

>Renoir Princesa

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Address: Calle de la Princesa, 5, Pje. Martín de los Heros Tel: 915 599 872 & 902 229 122 Zone: Central Price: Mon-Fri 6.50 €. Sat & Sun 6.80 € Metro: Plaza de España (Lines 3 & 10), Ventura Rodríguez (Line 3)

>Renoir Retiro

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Address: Narváez, 42 Tel: 902 229 122 Zone: Retiro Price: Mon-Fri 6.50 €. Sat & Sun 6.80 € Metro: Ibiza (Line 9)

>Verdi

Rodríguez (Line 3) Address: Bravo Murillo, 28 Tel: 914 473 930 Zone: Chamberi Price: 6.50 € Metro: Canal (Lines 2 & 7), Quevedo (Line 2)

>Yelmo Cines Ideal

Rodríguez (Line 3)

Address: Doctor Cortezo, 6 Tel: 902 220 922 Zone: Central Price: 7.10 € Metro: Tirso de Molina (Line 1)

sport Heated debate, disagreements, tantrums and sulks… And that was just deciding what the names of the awards were going to be! The European Vibe office has locked in deep reflection over the last year’s events in sport to name our list of winners. Here are our definitive sports heroes of 2008, and Harry Watkinson explains why.

Spanish League Tickets Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia... - English Premiership - Champions League - Italian Serie A

Spor ts Personalities of the Year

Contact details:

www.1st4footballtickets.com [email protected]

Tel: +34 918110470

WORDS by Harry Watkinson

European Vibe Sports Personality of the Year (Outstanding performance in sport by a European)

Rafael Nadal

matches of all time to finally claim the ultimate prize in tennis. It also made him the first man since Bjorn Borg to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year. For most tennis fans, this made Rafa the unofficial world number one. Two months later, after victories in Toronto, Cincinatti and a gold medal in Beijing, the great Spaniard made it official. Injury was to curtail his year but he had already done more than enough. Rafa can look forward to this Christmas knowing that he is, for now, the best of the best.

Runner Up

By April of this year Rafael Nadal was in familiar territory. He was ranked the number two player in the world; a position he had held longer than anyone else in tennis history. Still sitting above him was Rebecca Adlington Roger Federer, the best of this time and arguably the best of all time. Coincidently, he had held the number one position for British swimmers hardly ever win gold medals at longer than anyone else in tennis history. At this moment, it seemed Rafa’s Olympic Games. British female swimmers never main challenge would be to hold off the number three player rather than win gold medals at Olympic Games. However, in challenge the number one. Little did we know that the man from Majorca Beijing 19-year-old Rebecca Adlington changed had something truly special up his sleeveless t-shirts. all that when she took the 400m freestyle by a Coming into 2008, Rafa was famous for several things. One was his fingertip and the 800m freestyle by a length. In the pool she is dynamic, abilities on the clay courts of Europe. In three years he had obliterated anyone who had the misfortune to face him on the red dirt. This period out of it she really does seem like the girl next door. It is safe to say that saw him rack up three French Open titles and, at one point, an 84-match Rebecca is already a national treasure in her home country. unbeaten run. A second was his appearance. The girls loved his long hair, European Vibe Young long shorts and bandana and they went absolutely wild for his bulging Sportsperson of the Year biceps. And a third was him as a man. Still a home town boy, Rafa is a (Outstanding performance in sport by a European modest sportsman, as gracious in victory as in defeat. But when he is on under the age of 25) court, blood, sweat and tears are spilt in the pursuit of victory. These are the qualities that had already made him one of Spain’s favourite sons. And that was before he went on the rampage this summer. Once again, Rafa crushed anyone in his path to win on the clay courts of Monte Carlo, Barcelona, Hamburg and finally Paris. In winning Lewis Hamilton the French Open for a fourth consecutive time, he gave Federer the biggest thrashing of his life. A mark of the man is that Rafa refused to For a living, Lewis Hamilton gets paid millions celebrate his victory on court because he felt bad for his great rival. But of pounds to drive racing cars at more than worse was to come for the Swiss maestro. Centre Court at Wimbledon 220mph. When he is away from the track, he had been his personal domain, winning the title for five years on the chills with his Pussycat Doll girlfriend and when bounce. However, there was to be no sixth. At the third attempt and he goes out, everyone wants to be his friend. after five hours and five sets, Rafa downed Roger in one of the greatest

>>

continued on page 26

24

dec 08

WE’RE NOT THE BIGGEST BUT WE THINK WE’RE THE BEST Open 24th December Abierto el 24 de diciembre 31st December New Year’s Eve Celebration 31 de diciembre: Gala de Noche Vieja Special Dinner Cena especial Open all night Abierto toda la noche

SPECIAL OFFERS

BUCKET PINT OF BEER 15& (6 Bottles of VODKA + BURN, WHISKEY + Heineken) COKE 8¤

EVERY WEDNESDAY: PARTY WITH DRINKS

2x1

LIVE MUSIC Poker Band, Blue Jeans, Superstition, Kairo’s, La Base Authentic Irish food served all day. Menu of the day 9 ¤

TWO BARS BIG SCREEN + 10 TVS FRIENDLY STAFF GREAT ATMOSPHERE MLB

Plus All Major Sporting Events Live

HAPPY WEEKENDS HOUR MONDAY 5PM TO TO THURSDAY 7PM 5PM-9PM

Sunday, 14 December Barcelona v Real Madrid

Monday, 1 December Liverpool v West Ham Saturday, 6 December Man Utd v Sunderland Real Madrid v Sevilla Saturday, 13 December Middlesbrough v Arsenal Tottenham v Man Utd Sunday, 14 December Barcelona v Real Madrid

Sunday, 14 December Chelsea v West Ham Sunday, 21 December Arsenal v Liverpool Real Madrid v Valencia Villarreal v Barcelona Sunday, 28 December Arsenal v Portsmouth Fulham v Chelsea Newcastle v Liverpool

C/Espoz y Mina, 7 (next to Puerta del Sol)

Tuesday, 9 December Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk Chelsea v CFR Cluj Marseille v Atletico PSV v Liverpool Wednesday, 10 December Celtic v Villarreal Porto v Arsenal Man Utd v AaB Real Madrid v Zenit St Petersburg

Thursday, 17 December Hamburg v Aston Villa St Etienne v Valencia Thursday, 18 December Racing Santander v Man City Sampdoria v Sevilla Tottenham v Spartak Moscow

Sol and Sevilla Open all day long tlf: 91 532 79 56

Tuesday, 2 December Burnley v Arsenal Man Utd v Blackburn Stoke v Derby Watford v Tottenham

Runner Up Andy Murray

Throughout most of 2008 there was Nadal, Federer and Djokovic, and then there were the rest. However, as the season came to a close, a fourth man had joined this exclusive party. Since Wimbledon the Scottish tennis player Andy Murray has been taking titles and toppling the top three almost at will. If he can stay fit, he may well be the one at the top of the pile come this time next year.

European Vibe ‘Overseas’ Sports Personality (Outstanding performance in sport by a non-European)

Michael Phelps

In Beijing the young Jamaican put on the greatest display of sprinting since the dinosaurs took their leave. He won the 100m and 200m by country miles, breaking both world records along the way. And then to finish things off Bolt and three of his mates took the 4x100m relay and, yes, you guessed it, broke the world record. A true global star has been born, and Jamaica has a new national hero.

European Vibe Team of the Year (Outstanding performance by a sports team)

Spain

national football team

The Spanish football team has become famous for its ability to underperform in European Championships and World Cups. Almost without exception, La Selección have come top of their qualifying groups and been one of the favourites to lift the trophy before tournament finals. But when the pressure has really been on, the Spaniards have been flattering to deceive since 1964 – the year that marked their one and only major footballing triumph. Thankfully, most bad things do come to an end and this summer Spain threw off the shackles of past failures to take this the European Championships by storm. Casillas was impassable in goal, Puyol and Ramos solid in defense, Alonso and Xavi controlled the midfield and Villa and Torres proved deadly in front of goal. La Marea Roja galloped through the group stages winning all three games before facing Italy in the quarter finals. You could have bet your house that it would end up as Spain playing attack and the Azurri defending. Penalties were soon inevitable but for once the Spanish held their nerves while the Italians lost theirs. This, you feel, was the moment when the hoping turned into believing; the mantra podemos was finally being repeated with conviction. And it was also the point when the healing powers of sport once more came to the fore. Regional rivalries were temporarily forgotten as people across the country celebrated the success of their football team together. The street party got bigger when the Russians were defeated in the semi-final and reached a crescendo when one goal by Fernando Torres was enough to see off the Germans and take the trophy. 44 years of hurt had been ended, and what was more impressive is that it was done in real style. In 2008, the best team really did win and let’s hope there will be more of the same in 2010.

Runner Up British

Olympic Team

Giant SCREEN & TVs

1st December Liverpool v West Ham 2nd December Burnley v Arsenal Man Utd v Blackburn Stoke v Derby Watford v Tottenham 6th December Man Utd v Sunderland Real Madrid v Sevilla 9th December Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk Chelsea v Cluj-Napoca Marseille v Atletico PSV v Liverpool PM 10th December PM TO 7 5 S D Celtic v Villarreal N E M WEEK eken) Porto v Arsenal 5PM-9P Y A D Man Utd v AaB S R of Hein THU s e O l T Y Real Madrid v A Gra n ott Callao Gran Vía D Vía B Sto. Domingo ON Zenit St Petersburg HOUR M BEER 10 & (6 OKE 8& x1 Y 2 P P S A K Gran H IN 13th December OF R Y+C T Vía D E E K K H IS T C H I U W W B , Middlesbrough v Arsenal D Y E T E R P A S P + G A Tottenham v Man Utd T VODK URSDAY: BI PIN Plaza de 14th December Teatro H T Y Oriente R Real E EV Barcelona v Real Madrid Chelsea v West Ham Opera Palacio alá 17th December e Alc Real Calle Call Aren Hamburg v Aston Villa al Ca lle Sol St Etienne v Valencia San Car rera de San Jerón imo tia Thursday, 18 December r o Catedral de go May le al C Sra. Racing Santander vNtra. Man City de la Sampdoria v SevillaAlmudena Plaza Tottenham v Spartak Moscow ayor Calle M Mayor 21st December Arsenal v Liverpool Real Madrid v Valencia Villarreal v Barcelona 28th December Arsenal v Portsmouth MLB Fulham v Chelsea Newcastle v Liverpool

Speciaolf fers

ll day Open a

t i l l l a te

Calle de Cádiz

plus all the sports including:

Calle Espoz y Mira

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Traditionally, British Olympians do losing very well. However, last summer, sports fans in the UK had to come to terms with the fact that their Olympic and Paralympics teams had won big time in Beijing. The cycling teams were unbeatable, the rowers were heroic and unexpected success came in the pool and the gymnasium. All they need to do now is repeat the trick when the Games come to London in 2012.

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dec 08

Usain Bolt

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Runner Up

FOOTBALL EPL Liverpool v West Ham 2nd Dec FOOTBALL Carling Cup Burnley v Arsenal, Man Utd v Blackburn, Stoke v Derby, Watford v Tottenham 3rd Dec FOOTBALL UEFA Cup Man City v PSG, Gp A Sevilla v Partizan Belgrade, Gp C 4th Dec FOOTBALL UEFA Cup Aston Villa v MSK Zilina, Gp F Valencia v Club Brugge, Gp G Wolfsburg v Portsmouth, Gp E 5th Dec Rugby union Heineken Cup Cardiff Blues v Biarritz Edinburgh v Wasps Sale v Montauban Ulster v Scarlets 6th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Arsenal v Wigan Blackburn v Liverpool Bolton v Chelsea Man Utd v Sunderland Rugby union Heineken Cup Calvisano v Gloucester Leicester v Perpignan Leinster v Castres Ospreys v Treviso Stade Francais v Harlequins 7th Dec FOOTBALL La Liga Barcelona v Valencia Real Madrid v Sevilla Sporting Gijon v Atletico Rugby union Heineken Cup Bath v Glasgow Clermont Auvergne v Munster 8th Dec FOOTBALL EPL West Ham v Tottenham 9th Dec FOOTBALL Champions League Barcelona v Shakhtar Donetsk, Gp C Chelsea v CFR 1907 Cluj-Napoca, Gp A Marseille v Atletico Madrid, Gp D PSV v Liverpool, Gp D 10th Dec FOOTBALL Champions League Celtic v Villarreal, Gp E FC Porto v Arsenal, Gp G Man Utd v AaB, Gp E Real Madrid v Zenit St Petersburg, Gp H 12th Dec Rugby union Heineken Cup Castres v Leinster Scarlets v Ulster 13th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Liverpool v Hull Middlesbrough v Arsenal Tottenham v Man Utd Rugby union Heineken Cup Biarritz v Cardiff Blues Gloucester v Calvisano Harlequins v Stade Francais Montauban v Sale Munster v Clermont Auvergne Newport-Gwent D'gons v Toulouse Treviso v Ospreys 14th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Chelsea v West Ham FOOTBALL La Liga Atletico v Real Betis Barcelona v Real Madrid Rugby union Heineken Cup Glasgow v Bath Perpignan v Leicester Wasps v Edinburgh BBC Sports Personality of the year 17th Dec FOOTBALL UEFA Cup Deportivo La Coruna v AS Nancy, Gp H Hamburg v Aston Villa, Gp F Portsmouth v Heerenveen, Gp E St Etienne v Valencia, Gp G 18th Dec FOOTBALL UEFA Cup Racing Santander v Man City, Gp A Sampdoria v Sevilla, Gp C Tottenham v Spartak Moscow, Gp D 21st Dec FOOTBALL EPL Arsenal v Liverpool FOOTBALL La Liga Espanyol v Atletico Real Madrid v Valencia Villarreal v Barcelona 22nd Dec FOOTBALL EPL Everton v Chelsea 26th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Aston Villa v Arsenal Chelsea v West Brom Liverpool v Bolton Stoke v Man Utd 28th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Arsenal v Portsmouth Fulham v Chelsea Newcastle v Liverpool 29th Dec FOOTBALL EPL Man Utd v Middlesbrough

Pre

In turbulent economic times, investors seek to shelter their money from the storm by buying into that most reliable of commodities - gold. Yet another reason, then, why Michael Phelps should feel good about himself as 2008 draws to a close. Because anyone who was following the Olympics this summer will know that the US swimmer now has 14 gold medals hidden under his pillow (there are also two bronzes dropped down the side of the sofa). This makes him the greatest Olympian of all time and credit crunch-proof – a nice combination. One look at Phelp’s physique will tell you that this was a man made for the water. His 6-foot-7-inch wingspan is three inches longer than his height, providing him with exceptional reach. His torso is long compared to his legs, enabling him to ride high on the water. And his flexible ankles, combined with size-14 feet, allow for a powerful kick. These are the tools of his trade. The ‘Baltimore Bullet’ swam in the Sydney Olympic Games at the age of 15, and four years later in Athens, he won six gold medals and two bronzes. However, the best was yet to come. In Beijing, Phelps went a perfect 8-for-8, breaking Mark Spitz's single-Games record for gold medals. He swam 17 times over nine days and broke the world record in four of his five individual swims. His three relay teams also set world marks. Not a bad weeks work, and he is coming back for more in 2012.

1st Dec

Reserve your Christmas party here Open on Christmas Eve New year’s Eve party- call for details Come and celebrate “Reyes” with us on the 6th of January

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And the icing on his very large cake came last month when he became both the youngest man and the first black man to win the World Drivers’ Championship. Some boys have all the luck. Of course, luck had little to do with Hamilton winning the ultimate prize in motor sport at the tender age of 23. For ten years the McLaren team had been grooming young Lewis for the high octane world of Formula One and in 2007 they finally let him loose. And boy did he make an impact. With two races to go he was 16 points clear and looking a certain winner in his rookie season. However, mistakes by Hamilton and his team in China and Brazil saw him surrender the championship to the Ferrari driver, Kimi Raikkonen, by one point. 2008 proved to be much more challenging for Hamilton on and off the racetrack. Expectations were much higher, the pressure more intense. Relationships became fraught with the press and he was accused in some quarters of arrogance. On the track he was struggling with consistency, one week brilliant, the next, reckless. But by the final race in Brazil he found himself in a similar position to 2007 – come fifth and the glory would be his. With ten laps to go Hamilton was just where he needed to be, but then the rains came forcing cars into the pits and sending his strategy up in smoke. Going into the last lap he was running sixth, going into the last corner he was running sixth. And then when all hope appeared gone the motor racing gods suddenly smiled on young Lewis and brought the car in front of him to a virtual standstill. Hamilton took the man, the finish line and his place in the record books.

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sport

Pasaje de Matheus

O’Reilly’s

culture

culture Spanish festive season, which builds over the preceding month to a resounding crescendo with the arrival of the kings on the evening of the fifth. In fact, the Spanish festive season is such a vivid, wonderful part of the year, that I think it’s well worth sketching quickly for any new arrivals.

1978 2008 A robust constitution 6 December

From early December you’ll notice that the supermarkets fill up with an unnatural amount of food, as the abuelas stalk the aisles with shopping trolleys loaded like farmers’ wheelbarrows. On Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) the first meal of the Spanish feasting season arrives, as Spanish females disappear into the house and start to do majestic things with seafood and shellfish. This banquet on Christmas Eve is followed by another on Christmas Day, which is followed by another on New Year’s Eve (Noche Vieja), which is followed by a final colossal gorge for Reyes. As the final whistle blows on the evening of the 6 January, half the population are crawling away from the dinner table and begging for mercy.

They might have come from afar, passing through dangers unknown, to bring gold, frankincense and myrrh (don’t worry so much about the myrrh next time) to Baby Jesus, but the big jolly fat man might be too much for Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. Peter Moore muses on whether Christmas Day will replace Epiphany as the most important date on the Spanish festive calendar. WORDS by Peter Moore

e all love Spain for its eccentricities. The charm of the country would be reduced by half if Spaniards stopped tossing goats out of church towers, or realised how silly they looked whilst dressed up as members of the Ku Klux Klan; marching through the main square of a some pueblo or other with an enormous table balanced on their heads. Perhaps I shouldn’t laugh. After all I did grow up in an English village where most of the buildings were constructed during the reign of Elizabeth I, and where, each September, the leading men and women of the community would dress up as Morris dancers and parade around the parish boundary with stag antlers perched on their shoulders. But when you think about it, these odd details are what give a community character. If all you want is bland normality and a bit of scenery, then you may as well desert Spain altogether

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dec 08

So well defined, and so much loved – it seems scandalous to suggest that of all Spanish traditions, Reyes, the core of their Christmas celebration is under attack. But amongst all the tumbling goats, bull fighting, sardine burying and bonfire burning, Reyes is probably the Spanish fiesta whose fate hangs most precariously in the calendar.

Santavs.Claus

The Three Kings

and go and live in Switzerland. Such a benign existence, however, is not for me and over the years I’ve developed a fondness for all of Iberia’s peculiarities – my attitude being that if an intelligent and self-governing community of people think it proper and right to put on their finest suit and award a dead sardine with a formal burial – then why on earth shouldn’t they? And in the same breath, I’m going to stick up for another of Spain’s traditions: Reyes. For those of you that don’t know, Reyes, a shortened version of Los Reyes Magos - is the most important day in the Spanish festive season which occurs on the sixth day of January – the day known to us from the north of Europe as Epiphany. It was the day that the three wise men (or magic kings, as the Spanish would have it) turned up at the stable Bethlehem, along with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Thinking of this story always brings me back to the opening scene of Monty Python’s The Life

of Brian. There, the three wise men mistakenly arrive at the side of Brian’s crib instead of Jesus’, leading to a confused exchange with Brian’s unhelpful mother. “He’s the son of God, our Messiah, King of the Jews,” the wise men announce excitedly. “And that’s Capricorn is it?” carps back the mother, incredulously. But in Spain, the day is remembered in a far different way, which in some characteristics resembles our Christmas Day. In the month before Reyes, children are encouraged to write a letter to the kings; assuring them that they have behaved well during the previous year, and asking whether or not they could have a few presents as a reward. As the tale goes, children that have behaved well receive gifts from the kings, which are left during the night of 5 January in a shoe on the balcony. Conversely, all that the poorly behaved children get is a rubbish lump of coal. Reyes, is the final, most important date in the

The onward march of westernisation is at the heart of this. The streets of Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and a hundred other cities and towns across the country are now loaded with the standard tribe of multinational stores and outlets; at the end of 2008 the Spanish population are just as much exposed to Nike, Nintendo, Starbucks and Gap as the residents of San Francisco are. And along with the tidal wave of westernisation comes our familiar mascots of the Christmas season, Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and as a result emphasis is drifting further away from Reyes and towards Christmas. The mere suggestion that Christmas is going to one day replace Reyes in Spain is likely to provoke a vicious ear boxing from a Spaniard. Reyes – they will inform you in a no-nonsense way – is the most important day in the calendar, after perhaps Semana Santa. It is not, they will continue, about to disappear. And they have a point. It’s not going to suddenly disappear; but with more and more children demanding their presents on Christmas Day, you can be sure that over the next decade the Spanish festive season is going to lose some of its familiar feel. If you’re up for a seasonal chuckle, then on the afternoon of the fifth of January, get yourself down to Sol to greet the kings arriving in Madrid, resplendent and waving to the crowd from the roof of their double decker buses. It’s a uniquely Spanish peculiarity that’ll make you glad to be in Iberia and a refreshing change from our westernised secular Christmas, which after all was created by Bing Crosby, the Coca Cola marketing department and a clutter of Victorian novelists.

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6 December

Martin Quinn delivers his account of the Spanish Constitution of 1978. 30 years on from its approval by the people of Spain, many see this as a time to celebrate, but many others see it as high time for change. WORDS by Martin Quinn

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December 2008 is the thirtieth anniversary of the Spanish Constitution. It was created during a time of uncertainty and instability, though its ramifications have mostly reversed this. It has led to a freer and more prosperous society. Regional language and cultural rights have been enshrined in the document. The regions have varying degress of autonomy but, according to the constitution, Spain is “indissoluble” and “indivisible”. The king is the nominal head of state, having little power other than constitutional guardianship. Well, this and the ability to tell South American leaders to “shut up”. Apparently, as he lay dying, Franco was told that thousands of Spaniards had gathered outside to say farewell. The dictator responded by asking where they were going. Once the Generalísimo had died, the seemingly obedient heir to the regime, Juan Carlos, began a process of transition to democracy. Although there had been fears of a new dictatorship, the most serious chance of this died in 1973 with Admiral Luís Carrero Blanco, killed by an ETA bomb. The uncertainty of the era led to other questions. Another civil war? A Red Spain or a divided Spain? The Basque derby between Athletic de Bilbao and Real Sociedad saw a display of burgeoning nationalism when the two captains came onto the pitch carrying an Ikurriña (the Basque flag) together. This was unthinkable in Franco’s time, when the Basque provinces of Guipúzcoa and Vizcaya, despite being predominantly devoutly Catholic, were branded ‘traitor provinces’ for siding with the Second Republic during the Spanish Civil War. Between the spectres of communism and region-

al nationalism, Spain was a long way from stability and self-confidence. Who was the man to achieve this then? Juan Carlos had initially extended Arias Navarro’s tenure as prime minister which was by no means a good sign that reform was on the way. A Francoist public prosecutor, he had Salvador Puig Antich, a Catalán anarchist, executed in 1974. The move was reminiscent of the post-Civil War purges that saw tens of thousands of suspected Republican sympathisers put to death without trial. The move sparked an international outcry so Navarro’s continued participation in government was controversial. Navarro attempted to prolong Francoist policy and, in the ensuing political struggle, lost his job. The king then appointed Adolfo Suarez, a Francoist technocrat, which was originally viewed with scepticism by the centre and left. Suarez, however, had no intention of preserving the status quo. He enacted political reforms that led to democratic elections in 1977. His great task lay in finding how to dismantle Francoism from within so as to avoid military intervention. The Cortes was populated with non-elected ultra-conservative politicians, so persuading them to sign their own system’s death warrant was going to be difficult. With help from the Speaker of the Cortes, Torcuato Fernández-Miranda, who drafted the Political Reform Act, he succeeded in this. A 94% “Yes” vote in a national referendum on the subject gave it more credibility. Now, Suarez had to confront a major obstacle. The opposition. The PSOE was open to many of Suárez’s ideas. Leader Felipe González and his party were far more Marxist than the Socialist

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Party of today, but the centreward drift was beginning. The major problem was the Communists’ rejection of the Political Reform Act. The law didn’t allow them to participate in elections as extreme right-wing elements were opposed to their legalization. Right-wing opposition to the Partido Communista de España culminated in a terrorist attack on an address in Calle Atocha in January 1977, killing five leftists. Public outrage led to Suárez taking advantage of the situation and legalizing the party. The right to strike and unionize was also granted shortly after. Elections were called for June to select a parliament that would write the constitution. The scene was set. The aforementioned issue with regional nationalism was continuing throughout this time, especially in the Basque Country, which was in turmoil as nationalists confronted the authorities. There were prisoner amnesties but paramilitary activity was skyrocketing. ETA (and nationally, the Maoist GRAPO) were active and on the other side of the spectrum, Francoist paramilitaries were active. In Euskadi and Catalonia nationalist parties were doing well and the desire for disengagement from Madrid had returned strongly. The elections of 15 June 1977 left Suárez and his party, Unión de Centro Democrático with 35% of the vote. The Socialists got 29% and Alianza Popular, led by Manuel Fraga flopped with 8%. Fraga, a rather unstable character prone to aggressive public outbursts, had supported very gradual change. The public viewed him as an old-school

Francoist and very reactionary. The Communists achieved nearly 10% of the vote and this would guarantee they left their stamp on the constitution. Along with the right of the government to intervene in the private sector if the public interest deemed it necessary, the Communists also managed to get a clause in regarding the workers’ right to eventually own the means of production. The next year would see this and the other parts of the constitution being drafted. The constitution was ratified in a referendum with an absolute majority of 87.87% of the popular vote on 6 December 1978. The turnout was 69% and there was a notable lack of support in the Basque Country, where nationalists abstained, but 15,706,078 of 17,873,301 voters said “Yes” to the charter. Here are some of the other important features of the constitution. You’ll probably hear Spaniards complaining about the health system but their right to healthcare free at the point of use is enshrined in the constitution. The result is a high level of healthcare. Anyone who has suffered the British health system (or Jesus help us, the Irish Republic’s) can testify to Spain’s hands-down superiority here, the poor in the USA can only dream. Decent housing and state pensions are also unalienable rights, so, socially speaking, Spaniards have done very well. Added to these, the government has been given the onus to be proactive in job creation. The other major point is, regardless of race, gender, sexual preference, religious or political beliefs, everyone’s equal. Franco will be turning in his grave faster than a cement mixer. It seems, although the only change to the constitution has been to allow EU nationals to vote in local elections, many do not want the document to stop developing. Proposals for changes have been made, including the rejected Ibarretxe Plan of altering of the Basque Country’s status to free association with the Spanish state. The Spanish Senate may also be revamped and changes to the right of royal succession are planned. Spain has moved a long way from the days of dictatorship. But problems remain, especially concerning the regions. Regarding localised nationalism, maybe a looser form of the country, a federal Iberia would be better. Remember here that you’re Galician, Basque or Andalusian first and Spanish second. Violence hasn’t and never will progress human society, so loosening up the all-important heart of government systems, the constitution may be better. In this way, people can restructure society without infringing on the rights of others.

dec 08

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the section for learning spanish

Christmas lottery

Spaniards are usually quite keen on gambling, but even the ones who don’t do it during the year buy themselves a ticket for the Christmas draw. Some people spend over 600 euros every year. It is a tradition to exchange lottery tickets with different members of your family, so that you all have the same numbers. If you would like to get a ticket, go and find an “administración de lotería” and ask for a “décimo de lotería de Navidad”. The draw is held on 22 December. Good luck!

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¡Feliz Navidad! ¡Feliz Año Nuevo! ¡Qué disfrutes de estas fiestas! Voy a pedir un deseo al tomarme las uvas ¡Qué tengas buena salida y entrada de año! ¡Feliz 2009!

22 de Diciembre: Es un día muy importante para todos los españoles que juegan a la lotería. Se celebra el sorteo de Navidad y casi todos estamos escuchando la radio o viendo la televisión para ver si nos hacemos millonarios. 24 de Diciembre: Nochebuena La celebración de este día consiste en una cena en familia en la que es frecuente tomar cordero asado, marisco y embutidos, además de dulces navideños aunque el menú puede variar de una región de España a otra. 25 de Diciembre: Es el día más familiar del periodo navideño. Después de un desayuno prolongado, las familias salen a pasear y los más religiosos aprovechan para acudir a la iglesia. A la hora del almuerzo, de nuevo una comida familiar con un menú muy similar al de la noche anterior. La sobremesa se prolonga hasta bien entrada la tarde, jugando a las cartas o simplemente conversando. 31 de Diciembre: Nochevieja Es un día que poco a poco ha ido perdiendo su carácter familiar para convertirse en un encuentro entre amigos o incluso un viaje a algún destino soleado. La cuestión es que estemos donde estemos los españoles no dejamos de cumplir con la tradición de tomar las doce uvas a las doce de la noche de este día, al tiempo que reflexionamos sobre el año que se va y le pedimos un deseo al que viene. Son muy populares los cotillones, las fiestas en hoteles y discotecas que incluyen cena y baile además de chocolate con churros para desayunar si la fiesta se prolonga hasta el amanecer. 1 de Enero: Año Nuevo Para los más tradicionales sigue siendo un día perfecto para reunirse a almorzar con la familia. Para otros simplemente se ha convertido en un día para recuperarse de la fiesta de la noche anterior. 5 de Enero La Noche de Reyes es mágica para los niños, que esperan con nerviosismo la llegada de los tres Magos de Oriente. Para los adultos puede ser una buena excusa para salir de fiesta. Cada vez es más común que las discotecas organicen cotillones al estilo de los que se celebran la noche del 31 de Diciembre. 6 de Enero Es un día dedicado al intercambio de regalos. Los niños disfrutan con sus nuevos juguetes un día antes de volver al colegio. Ah, y los que han sido traviesos reciben carbón.

dec 08

Querida Lingo Star Uno de mis compañeros de trabajo me dice siempre que qué guapa voy. A mí no me molesta en absoluto pero me tiene un poco confundida. ¿Es sólo un cumplido o tiene algún interés mayor en mí? Espero tu ayuda Paula

Once, I stripped to my skivvies in 5-degree weather and swam through a drainage pond in front of a bunch of classmates’ parents for a dare. I’ve been known to sing Wilson-Phillips songs at karaokes. Shy, I am not. I got Ana’s number and hung out with her again, but nothing much came of it. My next Spanish conquest, who we’ll call Sonia, was probably the smartest girl I’ve ever dated. She was a Master’s student, and always busy, so I also befriended her Canadian roommates. Anyway, one of said roommates told me, “Yeah, Sonia says you’re kinda shy.” A pattern was developing.

Hola Paula ¡Qué alegría tener un compañero de trabajo que te suba el ánimo de esa manera! Es difícil darte una respuesta puesto que no conozco a la persona de la que me hablas y puede que tenga algún tipo de interés en ti. Pero si esto te tranquiliza, en España es muy habitual elogiar el aspecto físico de las personas, su pelo así como su vestuario. Así que no te sorprendas si tus amigos o colegas del trabajo lo hacen. Un abrazo Susana

It took a while, but I finally figured out this whole male-female interaction thing. While American girls often complain that Spanish guys are so pushy and forward, there’s a reason behind it: they’re Spanish. In one of my various teaching books, an article said if you watch two Brits talk for an hour, they’ll touch 0 times. If you watch two French men talk, they’ll touch 100 times. By my estimate, two Spaniards would touch 7,456 times in an hour. The Spanish idea of personal space is vastly different from that of an American or a Brit; we’re about an arm’s length, and they can smell each other’s breath. I mean, Spaniards kiss strangers when they’re introduced for God’s sake. If I haven’t shaved in a few days, I’m lucky to get a handshake from American girls. The first step in winning the war is having the right weapons and knowing your enemy—or love interest, anyway. So on the battlefield, or in the pub, take note: cultural differences can make life interesting. Every culture has norms and expectations. Some of us are close-talkers, some of us aren’t. Flirting is all about the back and forth—hey, use this topic to spark the conversation if you want. So, to American and British ladies—don’t take the Spanish guy’s forwardness as an affront. And to Spanish girls—I’m not shy, but I am single. Single, and ready to mingle.

Querida Lingo Star Aunque mi profesora me lo ha explicado ya varias veces, sigo sin entender qué significa y para qué se usa el verbo “soler” en español. ¿Podrías darme algún ejemplo práctico? Muchas gracias Martin Hola Martin El uso del verbo “soler” es más fácil de lo que parece. Sólo tiene dos tiempos, el presente (suelo, sueles, suele, etc.) y el imperfecto (solía, solías, solía, etc.) y una particularidad: siempre se usa con un verbo detrás en infinitivo (“Suelo ir al cine los domingos” o “Mi hermana solía tocar el piano cuando era más joven”). Respecto a cuándo usarlo, se debe hacer solo cuando queremos expresar una acción habitual en el presente o en el pasado. Espero que esto te aclare las cosas Susana Querida Lingo Star Estas Navidades quiero hacerle un regalo a mi “madre española” y no sé qué comprarle. ¿Hay algunas cosas típicas que pueden o se suelen regalar a una madre en España? Mil gracias por tu ayuda. Un abrazo Jessica Querida Jessica Realmente no existe una guía de regalos para una madre española, como tampoco existiría en otros países. Es posible que le haga ilusión algo propio de tu país como un objeto de decoración, unos dulces típicos o incluso música tradicional de tu tierra. Mucha suerte Susana

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Somewhere around a year ago, I had my first real experience of flirting with a Spanish girl. At some student night at a disco, I danced briefly with a Finnish girl. She must have been impressed with my moves (cough, cough) because she soon introduced me to her friend, who we will refer to as Ana. Ms. Finland told Ana I was from the States, which tickled Ana’s fancy. Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m no Lothario, but I’ve got a little bit of game and a sliver of pride. From there, flirting commenced. Ana told me she had studied abroad in the States, so we got to talking about our countries and languages and flipped back and forth between English and Spanish. It was fun. Personally, I take a pretty laid-back approach in courting – my high school Spanish class name was Guillermo, not Don Juan. But things were going pretty well for me.. Eventually, though, Ana said to me, “You’re really shy.”

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WORDS by susana lópez

Useful info:

Dices

EL CONSULTORIO DE LINGO STAR

WORDS by PETER MOORE

Nochebuena > Christmas Eve Navidad > Christmas Day Nochevieja > New Year’s Eve Año Nuevo > New Years Day Regalo > gift Carta a los Reyes Magos > Letter to the Three Wise Men Árbol de Navidad > Christmas tree Espumillón > tinsel Adornos de navidad > Christmas decoration Luces de navidad > Christmas lights Villancico > carol Cotillón > New Year’s Eve party Uvas > Grapes

Intermediate Section

WORDS by ryan craggs

NAVIDADES EN ESPAÑA Vocabulario Expresiones útiles

books

Boys vs. Girls Lost in Flirtation

Todavía recuerdo la primera vez que salí con un chico extranjero, era americano. Sabía que él me gustaba pero acudí al encuentro sin tener ni la más remota idea de lo que él podía sentir por mí: ¿quería ser mi amigo?, ¿aprovecharse del hecho de que soy profesora de español?. Tal vez él también se sentía atraído por mí. Como adivinarlo si fui yo la que le pedí el número de teléfono en el bar donde nos conocimos. A lo largo de la cena me habló sobre lo que hacía en Madrid y mencionó también cómo le gustaban las chicas. Así, ya entrados en los postres, llegué a la conclusión de que yo podía tener alguna de las características que él buscaba en el sexo opuesto. Pagamos la cuenta y ¡ni un mínimo contacto físico hasta el momento! Recuerdo que eché de menos algún que otro comentario de exaltación de mis ojos o sobre lo bien que me quedaba el vestido. ¡Al fin y al cabo todas mis experiencias anteriores habían sido con mis compatriotas! Aquella historia quedó en agua de borrajas pero os aseguro que aprendí muchísimo. Y seguí aprendiendo... Quería descubrir mucho más sobre cómo se comportaban los hombres de otros países. Sin ánimo de caer en el estereotipo, reconozco que hay una enorme diferencia entre la forma de ligar de un español y la de un anglosajón. El hombre español, en una situación de ligoteo, te comunica de alguna manera su interés por ti. Con el anglosajón tienes que descubrirlo por ti misma. Lo que para mí implica un reto.

Charles Dickens: The Ghost of Christmas Past

Peter Moore takes his annual dip into his Dickens. We encourage you to do the same, for Christmas comes but once a year. In the long and varied history of the eyeball, human beings have experienced few pleasures to surpass those enjoyed whilst gazing down at the pages of a Charles Dickens book. As a writer, Dickens was extraordinary: gifted with a vivid imagination, a quick wit, a faultless command of detail and an effortless facility to conjure atmosphere in a few, sharply penned sentences. As compensation for the mere act of opening one of his novels at random, a fortunate reader is assured of stumbling across some arresting passage or other; usually full of wit and wisdom. Here is one such example from the Pickwick Papers: ‘Heads, heads – take care of your heads!’ cried the loquacious stranger, as they came out under the low archway, which in those days formed the entrance to the coach yard. ‘Terrible place – dangerous work – other day – five children – mother – tall lady, eating sandwiches – forgot the arch – crash – knock – children look round – mother’s head off – sandwich in hand – no mouth to put it in – head of a family off – shocking, shocking!’ This passage, constructed with scarcely a word out of place, illustrates the essential elements of Dickens, as he describes the scene with an effortless, elegant flourish. In this passage and a thousand others like it, Dickens strove to capture the romance of Victorian society – and the extent to which he succeeded is reflected in the English language itself, which rewarded Dickens, and his unique way of describing the world, with a new adjective: Dickensian. Alongside his myriad talents with the pen, Dickens is also generally regarded to have been a key component of the early Victorian revival of Christmas; for which marketers and capitalism in general should be eternally grateful. His attachment with the festive season began in 1843, with the publication of the novella, A Christmas Carol, and the immortal opening line: “Marley was dead: to begin with. There is no doubt whatever about that... Old Marley was as dead as a door nail.” Some of Dickens’best-loved characters emerged in A Christmas Carol. The overworked clerk Bob Cratchit and his son Tiny Tim, along with the miserable, self-centred Ebenezer

Scrooge, whose memorable cry of “Bah, Humbug!”could easily grace the customer service counter of any branch of El Corte Inglés, and whose story of self discovery swiftly became a parable for his times. Subsequently Dickens published a succession of Christmas stories, which, despite failing to fire the population’s imagination in quite the same manner as A Christmas Carol did, succeeded in placing emphasis upon Christmas as a festival of universal celebration and thanksgiving. Perhaps one with more time, space and intelligence than I, can one day argue, in an English literature PhD thesis, how Charles John Huffam Dickens, that master storyteller, rewrote the story of Christmas for secular times. Whilst Christmas may provide us with an excellent opportunity to dip into Dickens, it only represents a portion of his overall output. The appeal of his work is not restricted to a month in the calendar year, or a specific social class; the reason that Dickens has endured is that his work transcends the usual boundaries that restrict literature: class, education, culture and learning. As much as Dickens was unique, he was also an everyman, and successive generations have been seduced over and over again by the rich charms of his characters, his landscapes and his very own vividly abstract world. Dickens might be dead; dead as a coffin nail (as that, in Dickens’opinion, was surely the deadest piece of ironmongery in the trade) with his bones locked up in a vault in the Poet’s Corner of Westminster Abbey, but his characters live on still. From Oliver Twist, Martin Chuzzlewitt, Estella, Sam Weller, William Dorrit, Nicholas Nickleby, Fagin, Bill Sykes, The Artful Dodger, Pip, Miss Haversham, David Copperfield to Wilkins Micawber and a cast of around 2,000 others. He’s a writer who should be rediscovered in every age. On a personal note, Dickens is the type of enigmatic hero that I need to drag me through the lamentable bilge of twenty first century culture; but one lingering, and rather perplexing question continues to bother me: just how would you say, “Bah, Humbug!” in Spanish? Answers on a penny stamp.

Y como nunca me han gustado las cosas fáciles, decidí tirarle los tejos al chico nuevo de la oficina, que curiosamente y para mi alegría era británico. Sabía que tendría que poner toda la carne en el asador y tirarme de cabeza a la piscina (sobre todo porque había más de una interesada en él). Yo no veía ningún tipo de señal, solo alguna mirada tímida y, como podréis imaginar, urdí un plan. Y me funcionó, vaya si me funcionó. Algo que me llamó la atención en ese caso, y en algunos otros que vinieron antes, fue que podía dar el primer paso y el chico no parecía escandalizarse. Con un español, posiblemente tendría que haberme quedado esperando a que me invitara a salir o mostrara de alguna manera su interés por mí. Dice un refrán español que “para gustos los colores” y en temas de ligoteo definitivamente mis favoritos son los de la bandera escocesa.

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dec 08

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services We are looking for:

>Language Academies

Dynamic, motivated professionals with a university degree and TEFL, with 1+ years teaching experience, eligible to work in Spain

You are looking for:

A well-established, centrally located school Attractive salaries Free Spanish classes

www.americanlanguage.es [email protected] 91-445 5511 C/ Rodríguez San Pedro, 2 Metro: San Bernardo

JOB OFFER! Looking for experienced, native English teachers and translators. We would be happy to supply you with more detailed information, an application form and interview. Tutor 25, 28008 Madrid 00 34 915 593 129 00 34 915 488 284 [email protected] www.es-onetoone.com

Travel the world by phone Dynamic telemarketing company is looking for individuals to work in a high energy office environment. Applicants must speak fluent English. Basic salary and bonus package offered. If interested, contact Mark on 91 703 0222.

Please call up until 17th December

TEACHING VACANCIES Job Description

Contract Type Full-Time/Part-Time

International House Madrid, a large language school with five centres in Madrid, is looking for qualified and enthusiastic teaching staff. On a full-time contract you will be expected to teach 24 hours, cover stand-by slots, complete administration associated with the course and attend teacher development sessions. Your timetable will be a mixture of adult, young learner and in-company classes. Some of your timetable will be onsite, while some will be offsite. You will need to travel to these sites. You will receive support from the DOSes / ADOSes / supervisors across the school.

Pre-requisites Cambridge CELTA, Trinity TESOL, PGCE + TEFL experience, or equivalent EU passport holder (native speakers) or valid work permit for Spain Degree

Skill Range

CARPE DIEM SPANISH SCHOOL

Want to have fun while learning Spanish?

We are continuously recruiting TEFL-qualified, native English teachers to give company classes at our prestigious clients’ offices. We offer good rates of pay and timetables and excellent pedagogical support from our teaching and editorial team, plus our very own teaching method.

Please send your CV to: [email protected]  or call 91 543 3573 www.hotenglishmagazine.com

Seize the day and join Carpe Diem school in Madrid

C/ Fuencarral, 13 2º derecha. 28004 Tel: 915223122 www.carpemadrid.com

• Flexible schedules • Accommodation • Small groups, max 7 students per class • DELE Exam preparation • Private lessons

>Language Courses Abroad Want to Learn English in London? can Help You Find the Best Language School & Accommodation for You

Experience of teaching Young Learners is particularly desirable. For In-company Teaching positions, professional experience is extremely valuable. For further details look at our website: www.ihmadrid.com or contact Recruitment at [email protected] or telephone: 902 14 15 17

We offer FREE Advice to Students looking to come to London to Learn English

When applying please attach the following: a copy of your TEFL certificate, a copy of your degree certificate, your CV.

Call us Today on: 902 02 47 49 (from Spain) or +44 20 7402 8651 (from rest of the world)

Teach English

with Hot English Language Services

Visit: www.answerenglish.com or Send an e-mail to: [email protected]

Interested in working or gaining experience with The British Embassy in Madrid or in one of its offices throughout Spain? If so, then please take a look at our recruitment page on www.ukinspain.fco.gov.uk. We are constantly on the look-out for enthusiastic, customer orientated, team players. The level of Spanish language ability needed differs according to specific job requirements so even if you are not a fluent Spanish speaker, you may be suitable.

www.trainingexpress.es

WHAT YOU WANT AND MORE! Enjoy your life in Madrid to the full! Work for Training Express, leaders in language learning   Great work opportunities Excellent rates per hour Free spanish lessons and much much more...

Interested and have an EU work permit? Contact us NOW: [email protected] TEL: 91-5211554

can e-mail me at Amandataylor87@ googlemail.com

Thursday. For info call 91 521 16 98 or 91 564 57 01.

>Internships

>Sports Clubs

Internships now available with a professional, young and growing Madrid based company. Gain knowledge and experience in the work place in the areas of Graphic Design, Marketing, PR and Journalism. Flexible hours available and full references given on completion of Internship. Send a full CV to [email protected]

Snooker: Right on Cue and in the Frame. Fancy a break and a Snooker experience second to none? Cue Mark on 618 784 550 or email [email protected] Looking to play some regular Football Hi, I’m a 22 year old guy looking to play some regular football preferably 5,6 or 7 aside. Anyone have any info!? Please let me know!. cheers Jack [email protected] SERIE AAAAAAAA Where can I watch Serie A? Please let me know if there are any bars that show Italian football. Or even better any AS Roma clubs. [email protected] ¡YNWA! MADrid REDS, the Official Branch of Liverpool FC supporters in Madrid meets for all televised games at the Triskel Tavern, calle San Vicente Ferrer, 3; Metro: Tribunal. www.MADridREDS.com ; [email protected] Badminton club Hi, I’m trying to set up a badminton club/league in Madrid. Does anyone want to join or help set it up? Daniel [email protected] Mixed/girls football madrid I am looking to play some social football here in madrid. Mixed or ladies... anybody help??? [email protected] Horse riding in La Granja (Segovia) Tired of the city? Looking for some fresh air? Want to horse-ride in the Sierra? Three-hour ride-outs for €55. Horses as per experience. La Granja / Segovia is connected by AVE (35min) or Bus (one hour). Rates quoted just include the ride itself. [email protected] Thai boxing club in Madrid welcomes new members of all sexes & levels to learn this amazing sport, get fit, lean & hard. Visit www.muaythaimadrid. com email [email protected] or call David on 662164877. Hockey! Come along and join us at the weekends for mixed non-league field/grass hockey on water-based astroturf. We play at the Federación Madrileña de Hockey (opposite the Somontes sports club on the Madrid-El Pardo road) Email: los_naranjas@yahoo. com.au for more info. Cricket in Madrid Madrid Cricket Club is looking for players of all levels and nationalities. Play in the Spanish league! Contact David (670087637) or Manny (627557572) Basketball Madrid. Meet new people, get fit and enjoy yourself. People wanted to practice basketball once a week. Active social calander. Contact Rob at 697 345 613 or visit www.basketballpractice.myfree.org. Mountain Bike Club. Riders wanted to set up mountain bike club in Madrid. Male, female riders interested in getting together for rides in madrid and out into the sierra contact me on 914638865 Hockey! Come along and join us at

>Clubs

Are you an English Teacher? Come work with us!

www.ihmadrid.com

Dynamic telemarketing company is looking for individuals to work in a high energy office environment. Applicants must speak fluent English. Basic salary and bonus package offered. If interested, contact Mark on 91 703 0222. Please call up until 17th December. 500 euros for 4 hours, totally legal Nominee company director required, maximum of four hours work. Easy, legal no experience required. Hours to suit. [email protected] International Real Estate Sales Experienced salesmen wanted. Financially viable properties. Closers expect OTE in excess of €100k. If you have what it takes, phone Spartacus Projects: 91 829 8392 Sales Positions Available European Vibe is in the process of expanding. If you are fluent in both English and Spanish, and feel you have what it takes to add to our sales team, send a cv to scott@ europeanvibe.com salaries with good commissions available. Writers with Talent If you think you are a talented writer and would like to see some of your articles and interviews published, send some examples of your work and a CV to [email protected] Native Italian Teachers Needed POP ENGLISH is looking for an experienced dynamic native Italian teacher for morning classes. Please send your CV to the following address: [email protected] Tefl teachers needed Language Solutions is currently looking for qualified teachers for in company classes in the centre of Madrid from 14:00-15:30. Please send CV to [email protected] Want classes in January? Do you have experience teaching? Are you a native English speaker or bilingual? Will hire friendly, likeable, teachers who can think outside of the box and be organized at the same time. Contract and standard pay rates offered. Please send

CV. [email protected] Want a different kind of teaching experience? Do you like nature, the outdoors and kids? ANGLO ORBE is currently hiring a female English teacher/monitor with an intermediate level of Spanish for a nature camp from the 23 of November through the 6th of December. The pay is room and board plus 380 Euros per week. Call Sheila at 610 294 140 and send your CV to [email protected]

International House Idiomas

>Jobs

services

>Language exchange TERTULIA INTERNACIONAL cada domingo a las 6 en el Café A la Gorra! (c/ Santa Isabel, 38 - metro Antón Martín). Ven a intercambiar idiomas gratis y a hacer nuevos amigos de todo el mundo en un ambiente acogedor. E-mail: forspanish@ hotmail.com Web: http://www.facebook. com/group.php?gid=19732127016 MADRIDBABEL: Meet Spanish/ international people from over 30 different nationalities & exchange languages absolutely free! Visit our online group with more than 3,000 members and find out more about our wide range of international activities at: http:// es.groups.yahoo.com/group/madridbabel, or e-mail: [email protected] Spanish/Greek exchange Hey there! I’m looking for a Greek partner to practice. I’m fluent in Spanish, French and English. Don’t hesitate and drop by an e-mail if interested! Michel Vedrenne [email protected] Exchange / Intercambio / Scambio Hi. Mi name’s Borja. I want practise and improve my English (level lowintermediate). And, if it’s posible, make friendship. I want to meet somebody that speak Italian too. [email protected] Spanish-English exchange Hi! If you want to speak better spanish and help me with the english...just contact me. many Thanks :-) josé 685131256 joseiglema@ yahoo.es My Spanish for your English! Que tal! I’lived in London the last two years. If you want to speak better spanish and help me with the english...just contact me. Thanks :-) [email protected]

Intercambio español - english Hi, I’m a 32 years old spanish guy, and I’m looking for someone to speak in english with.We could have a walk or chat over a couple of drinks, anything's fine. I like talking about almost everything, so you won’t get bored :) email me ! :) My English for your French Hi, I am an English speaking teacher and would like to practice my french with a native person. Would you like to have a coffee once a week and exchange your french for my english? [email protected] Speak english? Hi, my name is Misael and I’m from Madrid.I would like to exchange my spanish for your english. I can show you Madrid while we talk or have something. I’m sociable, and I’m interested in the art and music.See you soon. [email protected] English for Spanish I am an american from California who is here for the rest of the year. I am here to learn spanish and am working so I can live. I would like to meet with someone to exchange my English for their Spanish either during the week after 20.00 or on the weekends. It doesn’t matter if you are a boy or girl, just that we are able to help eachother. [email protected] Looking for language exchange and fun. Hola. I am a Swedish guy who is studying Spanish at la Nebrija. I am fluent in 4 languages and would like to exchange my Swedish, English, Arabic and Italian for Spanish and/or French. I am free most evenings. [email protected] English Girl Wanting to Learn Spanish. Hola, I am wanting to do an exchange, my English for your Spanish. My Spanish is very basic. I am a English teacher so I can help to improve your English. If you are interested you

Australian Alumni Association of Spain Meet, network and socialise with people who have studied or lived in Australia and are now in Spain. Email [email protected] to receive updates on upcoming events. The British Ladies Association would like to invite English speakers of any nationality (both men and women) to join our association. You will be made very welcome. We meet on the last Tuesday of each month at 10.30am for coffee and a talk by a speaker. The meeting is held in St. George’s Church Hall, c/Nuñez de Balboa 43. There are also other activities and outings as well as a Christmas Bazaar to help raise funds for the local Spanish charities that we support. For more information please contact Frances Bushby on tel: 918 152185 or Sheila Jones on tel: 918 034713. Webpage www. blamadrid.com. English Reading Circle at the International Institute Library. Monthly meetings to discuss English literature in English. For more information visit www.iie.es or write to [email protected]. Public Speaking and Networking Group. International group that meets to improve public speaking skills. 2nd & 4th Thursday each month at 2030 Bar Locandita (C/Fuencarral 148) Contact:standingovationmadrid@yahoo. com or Chris 695 513 466. Democrats Abroad Madrid Info: es.democratsabroad.org Australian Alumni Association of Spain Meet, network and socialise with people who have studied or lived in Australia and are now in Spain. Email [email protected] to receive updates on upcoming events. Writers’ group Writers with work in progress and a view to publication welcome. Call Charlie on 91 816 2419, or e-mail [email protected] The Australian Club in Madrid meets 9pm first Friday of each month at the Irish Rover, Avda. De Brasil, 7. Metro Santiago Bernabeu. For more info call Jeff on 669 458 341, or visit website: www.australiaspain.com/gudonya, or email: [email protected] Madrid Players, English-language theatrical group. We put on plays, small productions, do in-house readings, improvisations, etc. We meet every

>

more services

>>services

Free Services/Classifieds

30 words max: (not applicable to businesses) accommodation, clubs, intercambios. Send to [email protected]

more services

Paid Services/Classifieds

Prices: - plain - 15€ with colour 25€ (17th of each month) Payment must be received by the deadline. Call 91 549 77 11 or email: [email protected] to arrange payment.

American Dentist

Somontes sports centre (on the Madrid-El Pardo road) on Saturdays for mixed nonleague field/grass hockey on water-based astroturf pitch. Email: los_naranjas@ yahoo.com.au for more info. Madrid Lions Rugby Club needs you! All nationalities and player levels welcome. More information from Charlie on 636 067 716 and website www. madridlionsrfc.com Youth Baseball. Close to Alcala de Henares. We need coaches, players and anyone able to help us develop a youth league in this area. Tel Jose on: 91 879 3068 (eves) Madrid Club de Lacrosse. Interested in playing lacrosse? E-mail: contacto@ madridlacrosse.com. Lacrosse is a great mixture of hockey and tennis! Practices for both men and women. All ages welcome. www.madridlacrosse. com

Dr. Ivan Cabrera Santamaria OFFERS FIRST QUALITY DENTAL CARE

SPECIALISES IN GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY, IMPLANTS AND CONTACT LENS-THIN VENEERS. orthodontist FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS. Board Certified by the State of Florida (USA) Licence no: DN0013865 Member of “Colegio de Odontólogos” Spain Member of the American Dental Association

Tel: 914 458 916 Calle Carranza, 20, 10B Metro San Bernardo

>Miscellaneous Pancarta.es is Spain’s leading print service for international clients. Everything from exhibitions to business cards. All in English! www.pancarta.es 622 142 385 - 931 924 153 English Speaking Handyman Juan 670797638 Proinc Construction 918464363 [email protected] Male singer wanted!! Hi! Ok, we’re three spanish guys and we want to make music in English (mostly because we got brainwashed with american/british rock music, nothing more). If you are living in Madrid and you do like to sing (or know someone who likes to sing), please, send us an email at [email protected]. We are looking for a guy around 18-22 years old with a good English pronounciation. It doesn’t matter where are you from ! Cheers!! Venue needed Looking for a venue to have a party. Bar / bar staff not essential. Central area

prefered. [email protected] Pop/punk guitarist wanted establish madrid band in need of someone who can really kick it on guitar!!!!!! if you can play then email me and lets start working.... [email protected]

>Accommodation MONKEYHOUSING.COM Si tienes un piso o habitación y estas interesado en encontrar gente, nosotros te ayudamos. Mandanos un email con la información y tu piso/habitación se alquilará en 3 días máximo. email: [email protected] telf: 915497711 www.monkeyhousing.com

>Beauty, health and Fitness

> Useful Telephone Numbers

Aerobics club Cheryl 677244074 [email protected] Personal Trainer www.davidhughes.es Tel: 662164877. Hair and Make up artist Shimanda 914457149/699362500 Shimanda11@ hotmail.co.uk US Psychotherapist David Hugener 915942208 Mobile Hairdresser Sally 918425443

National information 11818 / 11850 / 11828 International information 11825 Madrid tourism Centre: Plaza Mayor, 27 (bajo), 91 588 16 36 turismo@ munimadrid.es Metro: Sol. Lost and Found: Paseo del Molino, 7 91 527 95 90 Metro: Legazpi Cancellation of credit cards 90 0 971231 (free call) Emergencies: 112 National police: 091 Municipal police: 092 Complaints by phone: 90 210 2112 / 91 548 8537 (Tourist and foreigner customer service dept) Teletaxi: 91 371 2131 / 91 371 3711 Barajas airport (T1, T2 & T3): 91 305 8343 T4: 90 240 4704 www.aena.es Railway: 902 24 02 02 www.renfe.es 24-HOUR PHARMACIES C/Conde de Peñalver, 27. Tel: 91 402 43 04 Metro: Goya-Lista. C/Ferraz, 13 Tel: 91 547 05 72. Metro: Ventura Rodríguez. C/ Goya, 89 Tel: 91 435 49 58. Metro: Goya. C/ Mayor, 59 Tel: 91 559 23 95. Metro: Sol. C/ Atocha, 46 Tel: 91 369 20 00. Metro: Atocha.

>Support Groups

Counselling Madrid. At Counselling Madrid we provide confidential counselling services to the international community. We help clients dealing with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, GAD and OCD. For more info please visit www. counsellingmadrid.org or send your email to [email protected] Tel 648 087 809 Therapy Group Peter 936759276 or Claudia 934177860 Alcoholics Anonymous Sam 932211810 – Jim 932845616

Pick up your free copy of European Vibe magazine from any of the places listed. To Be On Our Distribution List Email: [email protected] -

numbers indicate Madrid metro lines

Alcalá de Henares

Instituto de Hotelería y Turismo

Avenida de América

Centro de Estudios Internacional - CIS

Avenida de la Paz

Universal Music

Alonso Cano

Club de Español El Cano Tavern International House Finnegans O’Conners Pasajes

Alonso Martínez Areia Blood Brothers British Council British Embassy Club Ivy Funiversal La Parpusa

Antón Martín

Hotel Tryp Atocha Inti de Oro Zoe Café

Argüelles

Always School of English Star Café Finbar’s Icade University Enforex

Banco de España

James Joyce Tandem

Barajas

Barajas Information (Airport)

34

dec 08

Bilbao

La Musa LSI Madrid Molly Malones Schiller International University The Things That You Miss

Callao

Curry’s Studio 54 Mercado de la Reina

Chamartín

Of. Turismo Chamartín

Chueca

Areia Circus Noodle Bar

Ciudad Universitaria

Tulane University Universitaria Complutense (servicio de informacion) IES Programme

Colón

Hard Rock Café

Concha Espina

N.Y.U.

Cuzco

Larry’s Bar Warner

Diego de León Bo Finn

Esperanza

Sony BMG

Francos Rodríguez

Universidad Antonio de Nebrija

Goya

Casa del Libro Todo Españo

Cercanías

Gran Vía

Carpe Diem Shooters

Gregorio Marañón Booksellers Fórmula.Sil

Hospital del Norte

The Food Hall

Iglesia

Bangkok Beer Station Café Madrid Dark Tattoo El Imperfecto Eureka Idiomas Plus International Bookshop Los AmigosBackpackers’ Hostel O’Brien’s Vanadillo Zeppelin Viajes

Plaza de Anyway España A y Z Spanish Lang. Actual Plus British Council University of Mississippi Connect@ Las Mil y Una Noches Islas Filipinas TGI Friday’s Siam American Store La Latina

La Taquería de Birra El Estragon

Lavapiés

Café Barbieri La Librería de Lavapies

Manuel Becerra Tandoori Station

Metropolitano

St. Louis University Suffolk University

Moncloa

American Store European Vibe Office Public House

Noviciado

J & J Books and Coffee Kabokla Scruffy Murphy’s

Núñez de Balboa

Celtic Cross St. George’s Church USA Embassy

Ópera

Academia Contacto

Príncipe Pío

Hotel Florida Norte Lokua República Argentina Taste of America

Retiro

Ele. Madrid Unidad Medica

Rubén Darío

Babylon Idiomas Cubik Tony’s Café Interpublic Internet Center Inti de Oro Miau Regina

Sol

Artemisa Cine Ideal C.E.E. Idiomas Dubliners Fontana d’Oro El Piccollino della Farfalla Hispania Center Hotel Moderno Hostal Los Amigos Moore’s (Plaza Mayor) Naturbier O’Connell Street O’Neill’s Talking Point Tierra Vanadio

Tetuán

OISE (Academia de Español)

Tribunal

State University of New York Syracuse University The Causeway University of Boston

Cannibal Mercado Fuencarral Moore’s Triskel Tavern

San Bernardo

Tirso de Molina

¡Juan Por Dios! Schiller University Wall Street

Cat’s Hostel Mad Hostel

Santiago Bernabéu

English Centre Thamesis Univ. Rey Juan Carlos

Crazy Monk EBC Guts Irish Rover

Sevilla

Al Natural

Velazquez

Ventura Rodríguez

Las Mil y Una Noches Shamrocks Irish Bar

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