EbroVoice

EbroRose September 4th, 2009

You did? Fabulous. I was thrilled to see that Ryanair was still planning on flights into Reus from the more regional airports of Bristol and Liverpool.

There has been a lot of grumbles about Ryanair slashing flights out of London – Stanstead (news reported 21st July) and Manchester (headlines 17th August) because the overheads at those giants are extortionate. This is only good news for the smaller airports. We look forward to seeing the timetable from Leeds Bradford airport, and Mr. Marketing Director, we need flights from there into Reus, not Barcelona where Jet2 fly into. Then those who flew from Manchester can now run up to Yorkshire instead of the other way round.

11th August it was reported “jobs for Yorkshire”. Great! Ryanair reckons over a 1000 local jobs will evolve to support and sustain their services on the outskirts of Leeds. So the White Rose wins the “flight” war in the War of Roses again.

So www.EasyJet.com is too offering amazing deals before midnight on the 8th September so do hurry. The perk about their offer is you can fly between … right up to the 15th December 2009.Plus you get free car upgrade and a bonus by being entered into a super duper holiday prize draw.

Booked your flight, so the next step is to decide where are you going to stay and what are you going to do out here. We can help, advise or we can point you in the right direction. www.BrighterSpain.com.

The swallows are gathering in the UK ready for a winter destination in Africa. Our swallows in the Lower Ebro River Valley are still making their nests under whichever eaves they can find. This is a sign our warm weather will linger on for awhile yet, so maybe our autumn will be kind to us again this year.

Weather update today:

Tortosa .Southern Catalonia.Spain

Sunny to hot – 35 degrees celcius

Sat writing in my costume with a welcoming breeze blowing across the Lower Ebro Valley.
Outcome: “Perfect! Just Perfect Ma!”

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EbroRose August 8th, 2009

Brighter bed & breakfast

Rain, rain and more dismal weather seems to be in play for the British summer. So why not take a few days off and a have a short break in Southern Catalonia?

There are so many local British airports now flying into our nearest airport at Reus, near Tarragona. Bristol is another one that has come on board recently. Also you can fly in from Scotland now.  We are only  a pleasant drive from Reus airport down the AP7 and exit at junction 40 for Tortosa.

We have a lovely new bed & breakfast “grand chalet” in Terrapico (soon to be displayed on our sister site at www.BrighterSpain.com). This is set in the most wonderful tranquil countryside with a panoramic view of the Ebro Valley stretching down towards the delta and being embraced by mountains in the distance on each side. It is so refreshing to watch the sun rise as you await your breakfast being served in delightful surroundings by your most charming hostess, Juliet Weller. Your days can be spent on the River Ebro with your experienced fishing guide and host Steve Weller or spend lazy evenings as you gaze in awe at the most colourful sunsets as it dips over Mont Caro. Days can be spent relaxing by a very good size pool.

Tranquil panoramic views

Half-board is available. Please order an evening meal in the morning if required. Alternatively you can have a private BBQ by the poolside.

Packages are available for fishing guide and accommodation.

However, this area if very popular with cyclists, “twitchers”, hikers and ramblers. Perhaps, you are are having family  over and just don’t have enough bedrooms. No problem! Juliet will be able to help you with your overspill. One nighters are accepted as well as longer stays.

Terrapico’s brighter bed & breakfast is ideally situated.  Within 30minutes or less , you can be driving aimlessly through the natural park of the Ebro Delta and heading for some beautiful sandy beaches that are not crowded like the ones of Salou and Costa Bravo. This region is in the Costa Daurado with so many different beaches to choose from. Local golf courses are not far from here either. There is so many different activities and exploring to do in this area, with a wealth of cuisine and fiestas to experience!

Choices! Choices! Choices!

Steve & Juliet Weller

Please contact www.BrighterSpain.com. These prices of 25 euros per night are exceptional value for Bed & Breakfast in such an exceptional home.

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EbroRose August 2nd, 2009

Barcelona 2 – La Galaxy 1

Oh I love opening my emails first thing in the morning especially when one like this from Mountain View, CA, puts such a smile on my face. I shout,” Yeh . Copa lega champions!”  (UEFA championn 2009) as I thump the desk and send splashes of good black coffee across my writings (Oh noO!) Calm down girl, we know Barça are the best, coming form her who detested all things related to football in the UK, is very rich I know. But I mean – it is Barça!

I eagerly read on as there is more…

“But over dinner I discover Barcelona are playing LA Galaxy in
LA.. with Beckham back!!  He put one of his magic free kicks
from set piece in corner of net… but Barca did win 2-1.
More interestingly…  92,000 people were there… for a friendly!!
And Chelsea were recently in town.. and before returning Barca
play Chivas of Mexico… up street here in Candlestick park.
Guess soccer is finally working when such big teams tour in
off season.”

I am not as impressed with Beckham returning.  Chelsea does nothing for a family who loyally support Leeds -win or lose. But, Barça does it for me everytime!

Catalonian, Cataluña or whatever language you call our region- Catalunyan has  with all its beauty, history, artists and architects, diversified sporting activities, rivers, mountains and beaches, wine lands, olive oil and culture envelops all who touches it. But  Barça (Barcelona Football Club) touches everybody’s heart. Life stops. The bars overflow and in villages it is interesting and amusing as everyone, young and old, on zimmer frames, tractors, posh 4 x4,or scooters head for the  local “Casal” (the bar and village hall owned by the village) to watch the ONLY team worth watching – Barça! They are a legend!

So I eagerly look forward to August 8th as it is double bubble for me. Our Gareth and four of his friends fly into southern Catalonia for a family finca holiday with us. Then Barça will play Mexico’s Chivas Guadalajara in San Francisco at Candelstick  Park. Never got to that stadium but it is promised to be an awesome night.

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EbroRose January 13th, 2009

Warm up your cold fingers and nab yourself a 25% discounted flight on:www.easyjet.com

They declare “25% off every seat, every route every day on flights from 1st March to 30th June”.

This is a double whammy as they include Easter and UK School Half-term holidays. An opportunity not to be missed in these Crisis times.

Offer ends at midnight GMT.

Where am I going to stay?  Come to Catalonia, the Brighter Spain and we have loads of different offers for you, your partner, your family and your extended family.

Drop me an email in : www.BrighterSpain.com

We can offer: short stays, mid-weeks, weekly,fortnightly or long stay holidays to suit your needs.

There is so much more to Catalonia than you would first be led to believe! Explore the Lower Ebro River Valley and Delta, the magnificent mountain ranges and natural parks and cycle and hiking routes, the caves and the historical town, wonderful family safe beaches or hidden coves, golf courses,horse riding, “Twitchers” heaven, cuisine and wine routes, leisurely strolls around street markets and seaside towns or just get your car and drive. The river enjoys kayaking and water sports, and not just taming the giant Wells Catfish and golden carp.

Come and see for yourself! But remember, those flights discount ends at midnight tonight!!!

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EbroRose May 28th, 2008

Port Aventura will this summer have 3 very differently, designed golf courses to excite all golfers and challenge their skills. At the same time they have been sensitive to the natural environment of wetlands and white pine woods. Instead of bulldozing away they have incorporated it into the designs. Something that Greg Norman, the famous Australian golfer and course designer, is very passionate about.

North and South the courses will be 18 holes and Centre one will be 9 holes.

All golfers can look forward to a “sensational “golfing experience on the North Course; whereas the Centre course provides “entertainment” and the South Course offers you adrenalin filled “challenges”. (www.PortAventura.co.uk)

The first course is due to open on the 7th June with the 2nd and 3rd one in July (if manaña syndrome doesn´t kick in early!)

Greg Norman is responsible for the North and the Centre courses. “The great White Shark” excels himself again! (http://www.shark.com/gwse/)

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EbroRose May 25th, 2008

You no longer need to tee off from a patch of “grass” in desert conditions.

Decent “Pitch and Putt” courses (not the crazy golf style found in seaside towns) are springing up all over Catalonia. This latest news update, brings welcoming sighs of relief for the Ribera d’Ebre and Baix Ebre tourists, Expats and local Catalonians!

The Ceniolas Estates and Rasquera No 5.Village house (with 3 delightful apartments) are ideally situated for golfers to radiate out from, to enjoy many hours of golf on different courses in Tarragona province. No longer do you need to drag yourself for hours down the AP7 motorway to the South.

“Club de Golf -TEYCO” spreads its welcoming arms off the N340 between Carmales (“The Balcony of the Ebro”) and the picturesque sea town of L’Ampolla (“The Mirador del Ebre”). It boasts a Par 3 handicap, no certificate required, 18 hole new golf course and for the pleasurable sum of only 12 euros.

“Golf i Natura per tothom” = golf and nature is for everyone! “La Figuerola Resort” nestles against the landscape of Vandellos on Carretera de Mora, route C44 near the km 11.5 mark, with wonderful golf strokes on another Par 3, no certificate asked for, 18 hole course and for the princely sum of 15 euros on a weekday. Driving range is free. Hire of golf clubs, woods, trolley and a bucket (or two if you are me!) of golf balls are available. Maybe your “Better Half” doesn´t play golf. Indulge her in their Spa and beauty treatments, and share a lovely meal or drink afterwards in their superb and extensive facilities.

“Club BonMont” is definitely for the more serious and discerning golfers. Production of a golf handicap is obligatory (18 holes Par 72 Male handicap 28, female 36, for 50 euros). This course has been internationally acclaimed. Worthy of great compliments to the British designer, Robert Trent Jr. The Catalonia Open has been held here! A challenging and equally enjoyable course of 90 laudable bunkers and exhilarating waterholes to test your nerve.

“D’Aiguesverds Golf Club” in Reus is one of Spain’s longest courses (18 holes Par4) and pertains to 6314 metres and 10 lakes (one bucket of balls is not enough!). The flatness of the course makes it ideal for those of us whose knees have seen better days. After an invigorating round of golf spend a relaxing time over a tasty lunch menu.

There is more!

“El Catllar” Costa Dorada Golf Club is only 10 minutes drive from the Roman town of Tarragona. The whole layout of J.Gancedo golf design gives the perfect balance of natural pine and willowly green scenery, coupled with the aquamarine backdrop of the Mediterranean. The greens are surrounded with water and gentle hills, making for a very pleasant round of golf.

Why not stay in one of our charming accommodations and combine your love of the outdoors, fishing, (http://www.brighterspain.com/masdegeniral.html) with a few good rounds of golf under Mediterranean skies and mountain backdrops?

Please drop us a line at info@BrighterSpain.com and soon to look out for our “Golf corner”.

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EbroRose April 19th, 2008

Summer holidays are looming and we are thinking now of finding different things to do especially with bored teenagers. But parents and grandparents get bored to and are never too old to try something new and exciting.

“Driving a Go Kart is a Cinch!” Just two pedals, accelerator and brake – how easy can that be!

So why not be adventurous and have a day out Go Karting. It is not just for the sun burnt tourists having a break from the hot beaches.

Proof of age with a passport is required for youths between 14 and 18 years old. The adult circuit guarantees a “genuine world of emotion” ( or should that be motion? ), over 800 metres. Imagine it, zig zagging at enormously high speed levels! Whereas children over four and under 13, are assured a novelty over 300 metres of asphalt track. Cars are adapted to their age and are half the speed. (Maximum safety installations have been applied for all age groups.)

Plenty of car parking spaces for 200 cars and the gates open at 10:00am. There is a bar service and a childrens’ play ground area. Amusement arcades for the youngsters along with billards and simulators. Flood lighting allows for the fun to go on until late. If you are staying in the Salou resort area there is a free bus service.

When you think your days´fun is over, have a go on the Bungee Rocket or the Bungee Trampoline.

Check out www.kartingsalou.com. ( in English, Catalan and Spanish) – wonderful photos to exclaim it!

“Karting Salou” is so easy to find as it is alongside the Autovia Salou-Reus at the kilometre mark 2.1, Salou and not far form the beaches.

A great day out, one that will be talked about for many weeks afterwards.

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EbroRose October 4th, 2007

13th October 2007

Starts 10:00 and finishes 16:00 at Platja del Trabucador – Sant Carles de la Ra’pite

How strong are you? How fast and how far can you swim and run? Not sure, not to worry just turn up and support those who have been hard at training. You will enjoy a good day out with a twist of something different to do. Next year we may see some of you taking part!

There are two different strength and stamina staged events. It is limited to 200 competitors as individuals or as a team.

Ironterra 0.2. This is the “easier and softer” option of a 2km swim and a 10km run or walk.

Feeling stronger now?

Ironterra 0.4. This may be just what you need! Start off with a 4km swim and end with a 20km run or walk.

Not for the faint hearted!

If you are reading this from abroad and can´t make it this year, maybe you would like to start training and join in next year. Just subscribe to their newsletter. Lots of other active sporting events to take part in throughout a ten month calendar. Don´t know where to stay? Contact us at www.BrighterSpain.com

For details in Catalan: http://www.triatlogranollers.com /

Or visit this link or details in English, Spanish or Catalan “i Més informació” : http://www.ocisport.net/ca/campeonato/aquathlon-tour-aquathlon-tour07/30-58.html

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EbroRose August 23rd, 2007

Fiestas en honor a la Virgen de la Cinta Patrona de la ciudad. Se celebran en la primera semana de Septiembre.

The summer season has been wonderful this year. We have already seen the amazingly entertaining July Renaissance festival in Medieval Tortosa town and Fiesta Majors in Campredo, Jesus and Roquetes have entertained us all, especially our Jordan (Jordi- a his amigos call him-who has relocated to live with us this year), with all the bull running sports. But fiestas are never over in Catalonia and the Fiesta Major is still on in La Senia this weekend and Benifallet will be on in a week´s time.

From the 1st September to the 9th September included, Tortosians honour our patron saint , the Virgin of the Ribbon – Virga de la cinta, after whom the Hospital on the hill is named. Although this starts off a religious festival and a procession,there is an awful lot of sporting activities and challenges along and on the River Ebro. (Oh yes, folk, the river is not just for catfishing!)

Boat races are endured in “muletas” on river day. Not to be missed is the “big” swim from Ferreries to Tortosa, not sure if this is bank to bank, or down stream . So lets come along and find out – or join in.

Fun for everyone to enjoy. The childrens´favourite greasy pole pursuit -”cucanyes” entertains the onlookers as well as the kiddies.

Night follows day, and the pleasures continue on with highly contested boat races along with the “habaneras” -Cuban songs on the shores of this mighty River Ebro – that oozes life in to this town in so many ways.

More details can be found at the local Tourist Information Office in front of the Bus station or online in Catalan, wherethe programme takes on a cultural flair :

http://www.tortosa.cat/webajt/festes/cinta07/programa.pdf or

I was surfing online the other day (as normal) and was surprised to read a report that Tortosa is not deemed to be a Tourist town . How misguided are they! I have been here over four years now and find out something new going on somewhere,or something knew to do all the time. Come back, I say to the writer, introduce yourself and I will prove you wrong.

The Tortosians are wonderful friendly people and the population is very international now and with more languages appearing all the time. Tortosa is steeped in history, is becoming a very popular destination and a pivotal point for exploring Catalonia and Northern Valencia,not just for other Europeans, but also amongst Americans and Canadians.

Why not round off your evening by trying a different restaurant to your normal one.Wonder around the streets, browse the colourful menus in the doorways and pull up a chair. Bon appetite! Enjoy your culinary delight and soak up the evening views of this riverside city.

Read a lovely message in Catalan from our Mayor (Alcalde de Tortosa ) : Feran Bel i Accensi, http://www.tortosa.cat/webajt/festes/cinta07/salcalde.pdf

“Bones festes de la Cinta 2007!”

p.s. Don´t forget to share your photos with me of this event.

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EbroRose August 23rd, 2007

Once that rocket is launched to announce 11 o´clock on Wednesday 29th August in Buñol ( near Valencia), one hour of sheer squashed tomato hurling tom foolery commences. Fun and laughter ensues! Creation of spontaneous, fabulous photographic opportunities of one of the most hilarious fiestas of the Valencian calendar year, rolls out across these red strewn streets. Where “bodies” lay sprawled, trying to regain footholds, but can´t for giggling too much and responding by retaliating with what ever “red, gooey, gunge” they can claw back off the street and”wham” back at their assailants.

“La Tomatina Fiesta” has received International fame and usually 40,000 or more Europeans, Americans, Asians converge on this small town . This is some 30 miles away from the nearest airport in Valencia and though you can travel by car , the Tourist Board recommends you take the train (return ticket is approx 3 dollars from Valencia) or bus(no return tickets, but around 2 dollars for a single). Everyone will be in fiesta “free for all tomato projectile” mode and may have already started celebrating before joining the commute. You are sure to have made new friends before you get there!

Avis! Warning!

Please, please pre-protect your camera equipment in plastic bags.This is no sympathy, and in fact, you will become a likely target for these tomato hurlers of all shape , sizes, ages and refinement. Believe the “British Reserve” mode flies out the window before you get there.

Tomato Warfare Rules of Engagement ( N:A:T:O: approved- yeh, for sure!) :

# You may only throw tomatoes, tomatoes and more tomatoes (The clue is they are red, different shape and sizes -categorised as a fruit, though some folk think they grow on pizza´s.)

# Please squash them before throwing them. Whole one´s will cause bruising when thrown with menace (Oops, sorry darling, missed one!)

#Polizia (local constabulary) strictly forbids you to tear off other folks clothing, thought the locals seem to ignore that. (It springs to mind, “When In Rome….”, but do so at your own perril!)

#Play fair – a cheek for a cheek. ( Not sure which cheeks are referred to? Oh well, all is fair in love and tomato warfare.)

# Do not take bottles. Do not carry anything that may harm other people, or cause a hindrance to your tomato whirling arm.

#Make sure that wallets and handbags (purses) cannot be pulled off you or lost accidental in this fun brawl.

# Tomatoes and fiesta are free. Do not bring your own.

#Show respect for the passage of trucks bearing these mature tomatoes. You will not run out. They keep on rolling up with tonnes upon tonnes of this tomato cannon fodder.

#Do not wear white (or best clothes). White to a giant tomato in full flight, is like red is to a charging bull!

# Only throw at people. (Fabulous, give me your best shot!)

#Do not deface someone´s home or windows!!!

#Take no prisoners.

Well, that all sounds fair game and enough mishief for me .

Sounds a wonderful way of relieving summer stress, and without having to do a gruelling hike for days up to the top of a mountain in Nepal to shout and shout and exhale all that pent up emotion.

If you are a tourist and need accommodation places for all budgets will be found in Valencia, but are limited in Buñol. Contact either the Spanish Tourist Office or call 0034- 963-986-422or fax 0034-963 -986-421.

The Ayuntamiento de Buñol can be contacted for more specifics of teh town and fiesta details of events leading up to, during and after – as well as local amenities.

Unfortunately, this year I will be unable to personally take part, but then it will be with joy that I will be at Barcelona El Prat Airport to greet my daughter Julie (and best friend you could wish for) and other grandson, Shane Adam. Just received a text of their arrival dates!!Must find a fiesta or two for them to attend.

However, would love to receive some of your La Tomatina photo stories and tales to go with them. Please email me.

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