Non-touristic places where you can see the real character of the country. Non-touristic places in barcelona. Beech Alley, Ireland

Let's leave aside the handouts and Hollywood-created clichés and look where tourists don't usually go - to feel the soul of the country and see its real life.
I publish a selection of delightful non-tourist places in countries popular among tourists.

1. Yvoire, France

The colorful village of Yvoire is over 700 years old. Despite military battles and natural collisions, the settlement has retained its historical appearance. Near Lake Geneva there is a small castle built by Count Amadeus V of Savoy. Cobbled streets, charming people, cozy old houses, elegant flower gardens... beautiful villages France!

2. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island can be safely attributed to the places where adults and children dream of being. A third of the territory here is occupied by nature reserves and national parks. You will be impressed by the grandiose landscapes against the backdrop of giant rocks and green expanses. Here on a walk you can meet kangaroos, monitor lizards, koalas, platypuses, as well as many birds: pygmy penguins, black cockatoos, barn owls, etc. And in ocean waters dolphins and seals frolic. Australia in this place will open before you as a freedom-loving country full of unprecedented beauty.

3. Bourtange Fortress, Netherlands

Bourtange Fortress, or Star Fortress, is located in the Netherlands. It was built during the Eighty Years' War, when the country was fighting for independence from the Spanish Empire. Architects came up with the new kind fortifications to protect against artillery. After the war, the bastion was abandoned, then it was strengthened and expanded again, and since the 19th century Bourtange has been owned by the local community. A tour of the bastion will be very informative, besides, there are beautiful landscapes.

4. Albarracin, Spain

The philosopher Ortega y Gasset wrote that this city has a fabulous silhouette. And Albarracin is often called " pink city». Beautiful name the settlement received under the Muslims (IX-XII centuries). Everything is beautiful here: the old winding streets, and the mountains of the Sierra de Albarracin, and green meadows, and rivers. Here you can also see the 18-kilometer aqueduct, which was built during the Romans. Walking along the cobblestones, you will imperceptibly immerse yourself in the Spanish flavor of past centuries.

5. Devonshire, England

Devon is a picturesque county in England, washed by the Bristol Bay and the English Channel. Once there was Dumnonia, which was inhabited by the Celtic people. The bays of Devon are home to resorts, fishing villages and ports. It was in Devon that the great sailors Sir Francis Drake and Walter Reilly were born, as well as the "queen of detectives" Agatha Christie. And the events described in the book by A. K. Doyle "The Hound of the Baskervilles" also take place in Devon. Here you will see the true face of the country, in the image of which severe restraint, colorful landscapes, cozy houses and mysterious roads are intertwined.

6. Hokkaido Island, Japan

If you happen to visit Japan, don't forget to visit Hokkaido. Here, the Japanese perfectionists have created many places that give guests vivid impressions: the Unkai terrace on the top of the mountain, the wonderful aroma and colorfulness of lavender fields, ski slopes And Blue Lake. And here you can also see an incredibly charming animal - ezo momonga, which lives only here. And, of course, you will be surprised by the synthesis of careful attitude to nature and modern technologies.

7. Monsanto, Portugal

The colorful town of Monsanto is hidden among granite boulders. The panorama is amazing: mountains, greenery, tiled roofs, stone streets. Once Monsanto was the center of the province of Beira Baixa. For eight centuries, the local landscape has changed little, so the town in 1938 was recognized as "the most Portuguese village." Wandering here is a pleasure, and you can enjoy traditional dishes in a restaurant located on giant stone(pictured above).

8. Feathered Canyon, Iceland

The Fjadrargljufur Canyon in the southeast of Iceland is an incredible creation of nature. From the pristine landscapes of this country is simply breathtaking. The Fjadra River Canyon was formed after ice age. Its length is about 2 km, and its depth is about 100 m. Not just a walk along the river bank, but a real adventure awaits you!

9. Alberobello, Italy

Miniature Alberobello is full of charm. Its wonderful trulli houses immediately win the hearts of travelers. Approximately one and a half thousand magical houses with cone-shaped roofs were built here. By the way, many of them are already more than 7 centuries old. The city is named after the forest that once grew nearby - Arboris Belli ("beautiful trees"). The world of provincial Italy will open before you in this unusual town filled with sunlight and decorated by inspired craftsmen.

10. Beech Alley, Ireland

Dark Alley (Dark Hedges) - unusual place. It is located near the village of Armoy in Northern Ireland. This stunning "beech avenue" was planted by the Stuart family 3 centuries ago. Their idea was to impress everyone who entered the estate, which today is a golf club. And yet, according to an old legend, under the ancient trees you can meet the ghost of a certain Gray Lady ... The locals value traditions and love riddles.

11. Kandovan, Iran

The village of Kandovan from afar looks like a giant anthill. About a thousand people live in houses created in stony rocks. But the ancient appearance of the settlement should not mislead you: locals have long been familiar with modern comfort. A bizarre relief was formed in ancient times during the eruption of the Sahand volcano. By the way, the literal translation of the name of the settlement is “bee hives”. Once here, you will certainly feel like the heroes of a Persian fairy tale.

12. Hobbiton, New Zealand

The fantasy village was created on a sheep farm in one year by the efforts of 400 people for the filming of the famous Lord of the Rings trilogy. After finishing work on the film, the village was empty for some time. But soon all fans of the work began to come here to see with their own eyes the holes of hobbits, the Green Dragon pub, arch bridge, windmill and other colorful objects embodied in reality.

13. Lake Titicaca, Peru/Bolivia

For the locals, Lake Titicaca is sacred. Its name in Indian means "mountain cougar". According to scientists, the lake was an ancient sea millions of years ago: marine fish, crustaceans and even sharks still swim in its waters, and traces of the surf have been preserved on the slopes of the mountains. About 300 rivers flow into Titicaca. And on the lake you can see unusual floating islands from reeds, inhabited by the Uru Indians. The way of life in these mobile settlements has not changed much over the last century. It will even seem to you that you have traveled back in time.

14. Gastelugache Island, Spain

The island of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe is located off the coast Bay of Biscay. It is connected to the mainland by a narrow stairway of 237 steps. There is a monastery on the island, which is already about 11 centuries old. The marvelous panorama of Gastegulace is remembered forever, and splashes of azure waves and fresh wind fill everyone who has been here with special energy.

15. Chefchaouen, Morocco

Most popular destinations summer holiday Russians are Spain, Italy, Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey. Descriptions of the main local attractions can be found in any guidebook, but what about those who want to plunge into non-tourist, authentic atmosphere cities? It was for them that the momondo travel metasearch, together with Marie Claire, made a selection of secret cafes, little-known viewing platforms, cemeteries and pharmacies - in a word, unusual and, importantly, budget options leisure activities in each of the main tourist destinations.

Barcelona, ​​Spain

The Spanish city that our compatriots most often go to is coastal Barcelona. Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Salvador Dali Museum, Gothic Quarter – beautiful places, but this time we will walk through the non-tourist corners of the Catalan capital.

Mysterious bar "Forest of Fairies" (El Bosc de les Fades)

At the end of the central pedestrian Las Ramblas, there is a magical forest with elves and fairies. To find it, near the pointer to the Museum wax figures you have to turn left. You will find yourself in the bar El Bosc de les Fades, the interior of which is decorated in the style of an enchanted forest. So, in the very center of the Catalan capital, you will instantly plunge into the world of magic and fairy tales. Despite its location, this place can be called a secret: often only locals know about it.

Dinner here will cost 8-9 euros, cocktails - 3-4 euros. The bar is located at Pasaje de la Banca, 7. There is no need to book a table in advance.

It's so nice to wait for the start of each new trip, to allocate days in advance and plan a vacation. Guidebooks can become excellent assistants in this matter, the main thing is not to get lost in their diversity and choose exactly those books that will become really good advisers. Marie Claire, together with the online e-book store LitRes, has prepared a selection for you the best travel guides to the most popular tourist destinations.

Horta Labyrinth Park (Parc del Laberint d "Horta)

If you are looking for solitude, then take a walk through Orta Park. It is located in the very center of Barcelona, ​​but tourists rarely come here. The park is famous for its labyrinth of cypresses, which is not as easy to get out of as it might seem at first glance. Several scenes from the movie "Perfumer" were even filmed here.

Orta Park is located on the territory of an old manor, and the medieval palace and tower, waterfalls and fish ponds have been preserved here - an ideal place for a family or romantic walk. Entrance to weekdays costs 2.17 euros, and on Saturday and Sunday - free of charge. In summer, the park is open from 10:00 to 21:00, in winter - until 18:00. Address: Passeig dels Castanyers, 1.

Poblenou ancient cemetery (Cementiri del Poblenou)

Many have heard about the French cemetery Pere Lachaise, which is a real treasure trove. architectural masterpieces. But few people know that in Barcelona you can also walk around the ancient cemetery and admire the beautiful marble statues. Poblenou, the oldest cemetery in Barcelona, ​​is full of monuments and statues. The most famous of them is the Kiss of Death. Entrance here is free daily, the cemetery is open from 10 am to 6 pm.

Gràcia Street Festival

If you're planning to visit Barcelona at the end of the summer, you're in luck - you'll find yourself at the Gracia street festival. In 2015 it takes place from 15 to 23 August. At this time, concerts open sky, karaoke, games and dancing do not stop for a minute. And there is also a competition for the most beautiful street. Residents decorate each of them in their own style: jungle, Wild West, Star Wars or cabaret. Anyone can look at this riot of fantasy - admission to the festival is free.

Rome, Italy

Certainly, The eternal City with a history of almost 3 millennia, it has so many sights that it will take months to explore them. But if you do not have such a task, we suggest visiting some not the most historical, but original places in Rome.

Aventine: Orange Garden and Hole

The view of Rome opens from seven hills. One of them, Aventine, is famous for the pyramid of Cestius, the temples of San Sabina and San Allesio, the ruins of an ancient circus. But let's tell you a little secret: on the top of the Aventine, in the area of ​​the Knights of Malta, there is a unique keyhole. Looking into it, you will immediately see 3 sovereign state entities - Italy, the Vatican and the Order of Malta.

And on the hill is Savello Park, which the locals call " orange orchard". Ruin ancient fortress, cypress alleys, flowering oleanders, the heady aroma of oranges - what could be more romantic? In summer, Savello Park is open from 7:00 to 21:00, admission is free. True, there is one minus - oranges are inedible.

Gianicolo Panoramic Platform

The Seven Signed Roman Hills do not include Gianicolo Peak because historically it is located outside the city walls. Meanwhile, there are also ancient monuments here - the Gianicolo lighthouse, the monastery of Sant'Onofrio, Villa Aurelia. But most importantly, on the Gianicolo hill is located Observation deck from where you can see the whole of Rome.

Crypt of the Capuchins on Via Veneto (Museum and Crypt of Capuchins)

The crypt is located in the basement of the church Santa Maria della Concezione on Via Veneto. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that the soil in the crypt was brought from the Holy Land, so Roman monks and nobles wanted to be buried here. As a result, so many bones accumulated that they began to decorate the premises, creating a kind of eerie “finish”. Book a visit to the crypt at least 15 days in advance by calling 06/88803695. Tours run from 9 am to 7 pm, the ticket costs 8 euros (with a group of 10 people - 6 euros each).

Athens, Greece

In the cradle of European civilization, there are also many places where tourists rarely visit.

Technopolis (Ghazi)

A large cultural center like the Moscow "Red October" or "ZIL" is located in the Athens district of Gazi, not far from the Acropolis. Initially, it was conceived only as an industrial museum located on the territory of an old plant for the production of combustible gas, but today it is the main youth cultural space of Athens: exhibitions, concerts, master classes are constantly held here. You can get to Technopolis around the clock and for free. You can find out about upcoming events and exhibitions on the website or on the page in

This post is for those who are planning their vacation in Montenegro for two weeks or more, visa-free features for recreation and entry of Russians allow this to be done.

Daibabe monastery

This small monastery was built in 1897, founded by Simeon Popovich. Today, only a small church remains from the monastery, which was elegantly carved into the rock.

How to get there: the monastery is located 4 kilometers southwest of Podgorica, you can take a taxi or walk.

Ruins of the ancient city of Duklja

A few kilometers from Podgorica are the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Duklja. Already in the II century BC, Ptolemy mentioned the city of Duklja (city of Dioclea). More than 8,000 people lived behind the massive walls, the city had luxurious gardens and wide streets, and marble baths were decorated with beautiful mosaic panels.

How to get there: the ruins are located 5 kilometers northwest of Podgorica, you can take a taxi or walk.

Ruins of the ancient city of Medun

Medun is another ruin of an ancient Illyrian city, the date of construction of the city of Medun is the 4th century BC. Of the ancient buildings, you can see the remains of a bridge across the Moraca River (partially preserved), sarcophagi and part of the fortress walls.

How to get there: the ruins are located 13 kilometers northeast of Podgorica, it is better to take a taxi.

City of Danilovgrad

The city of Danilovgrad was conceived as the new capital of the state, but it never became a capital. The idea of ​​building a new Montenegrin capital belonged to Peter II Petrovich Negosh, he wanted to move the capital from Cetinje to Danilovgrad. Today, the population of the city is more than 3,000 people, which is quite a lot by Montenegrin standards.

How to get there: the city is located 17 kilometers northwest of Podgorica, taxi or bus.

City of Niksic

This is the second largest city in Montenegro, in the first place is Podgorica, with a population of over 60,000 people. The city of Niksic has Train Station, bus station, parks, churches, the palace of the king (Nicholas I Petrovich Negosh), the ruins of the fortress wall, etc.

How to get there: the city is located 50 kilometers northwest of Podgorica, taxi, train or bus.

Attractions near Durmitor National Park

City of Pluzine

If you need to hide from the whole world, then it’s better not to think of a place for this occupation. The city of Pluzhine is surrounded by mountains on all sides, Durmitor in the east, Maglich and Voluyak in the north, Ravno in the west, Voinik and Yarovka in the south. Life in this mountain village flows slowly and unhurriedly, cell phones do not work well, as well as televisions. No one here is in a hurry, even the nearby lakes are more like a still picture.

How to get there: the city is located 109 kilometers north of Podgorica, there is a bus from Niksic.

Mount Bobotov Cook

Mount Bobotov Kuk is the most high point Montenegro. Around amazing landscapes, natural springs and a scattering of small lakes.

How to get there: located on the territory of the Durmitor National Park

Ice cave Durmitor

On the territory of the Durmitor National Park, right in the mountain Obla glava, there is a unique natural cave full of stalagmites, whose height exceeds 3 meters.

How to get there: located on the territory of the Durmitor National Park. On foot from the mountain Bobotov Kuk, there are signs.

Dobrilovina Monastery

In the eastern part of the Durmitor National Park you can visit old monastery Dobrilovin. The monastery was built in 1609, in the XVIII century it was completely destroyed and plundered by the Turks. Today, the monastery has been restored.

How to get there: the monastery is located in the eastern part of the Durmitorn National Park, you can get there by taxi or car from Zabljak or Majkovac.

Mount Savin Kuk

It is on the top of Savin Kuk that the mountain spring of St. Sava is located, it is believed that the water from this source has healing properties.

How to get there: Mount Savin Kuk is located on the territory of the Durmitor National Park, you should go either by taxi or by car from Zabljak or Maikovac.

black lake

Most big lake National park Durmitor. In winter, the water in it freezes, and in summer the lake is suitable for swimming.

How to get there: you can walk from Zabljak

Zabljak and ski resort Durmitor

Zabljak is the highest mountain settlement in Montenegro (1465 meters above sea level), in the winter months the city is littered with snow, which is only good for skiers. It is in Zabljak that the most low temperatures in the country, in winter the thermometer level can drop to -30.

How to get there: the city is located 158 kilometers north of Podgorica, you can get there by bus.

City of Pljevlja

Most northern city Montenegro is located almost on the border with Serbia. Two rivers flow near the city, Chekhotina and Breznitsa, scientists have proven that people lived on the banks of these rivers 20,000 years ago.

The main attraction of the city of Pljevlja is the Hussein Pasha Mosque (built in the 16th century), the height of its minarets is more than 40 meters. To the north of the city center is the monastery of the Holy Trinity (built in the 16th century).

How to get there: the city is located 174 kilometers north of Podgorica, you can get there by bus.

Sights of Boka Kotorska Bay

Most of the coastal towns can be seen during an independent bike tour around the Bay of Kotor. The road is easy and is available even for an unprepared cyclist, look for all the details with photos and my comments at the link.

Topla village

How to get there: the city of Risan is located 17 kilometers north of Kotor and 27 kilometers from Herceg Novi, you can take a bus from Herceg Novi or Kotor.

Perast city

Monastery Podostrog

Monastery Rezevici

The construction of the Rezhevichi monastery dates back to 1226, until 1907 this ancient monastery received regular funding from Russia. The monastery has preserved bright frescoes of the 17th century. On site you can buy olive oil produced by the monks.

How to get there: the monastery is located 2 kilometers northwest of Petrovac, can be reached by bus.

Monastery Hradiste

The first written mention of this monastery dates back to the 14th century, but it was founded much earlier. On the territory of the Gradishte monastery you can see several well-preserved churches (St. Sava, St. Nicholas, St. Mary).

How to get there: the monastery is located 4 kilometers southeast of Petrovac, you can take a bus to the village of Buljarica.

Attractions near the Skadar Lake National Park

Vranina Island

The island has a cozy fishing village, the oldest monastery in the area, St. Nicholas (XIII century), the famous Jezero restaurant and a small house built by Nikolai Petrovich Negosh.

How to get there: near the city of Virpazar, the island is connected to the land by a road bridge, all movements are from the city of Virpazar.

Chernoevicha river

There is a small village of the same name on the river, the river flows into Lake Skadar. Of the attractions: a dilapidated arched bridge and the best restaurant in Montenegro - Stari most.

How to get there: 10 kilometers from Cetinje, it is better to go by car.

Grmozur Island

The island has preserved, once the most reliable prison in Montenegro, it is located in an old Turkish fortress. Escape from this prison was almost impossible, but a few people still escaped. Threatened the jailers long term for the fugitives, with the successful escape of the prisoner, the guards had to serve his term.

How to get there: boat from the city of Virpazar.

Starčevo Island and Starčevo Monastery

In the northern part of Lake Skadar there is the island of Starchevo, on which the monastery of the same name Starchevo (XIV century) is located. The tomb of the printer Bozhidar Vukov is located on the territory of the monastery.

Island of seagulls on Skadar lake

This small island Herring gulls have chosen Lake Skadar, it is believed that it is here that the most numerous nesting place of these birds in Montenegro.

How to get there: boat from Podvrat village.

Beska Island

A small island on which the monastery of Beska is located, a tiny church of the 15th century huddles on its territory.

How to get there: boat from Podvrat village.

Moracnik Island and Moracnik Monastery

The island with the monastery Moracnik (XV century) and several buildings, not everything has survived to this day in good condition, but you can see it.

How to get there: boat from Podvrat village.

Sights in the east of Montenegro (on the border with Albania and Kosovo)

Ghost town Swach

Today the city of Svach is the ruins of a once rich and prosperous city. By the standards of the Middle Ages, it was very crowded, and there were exactly as many temples as there were days in a year.

How to get there: Svac is located 22 kilometers northeast of Ulcinj.

Attractions near Prokletje National Park

City Plav

The small town of Plav is located at the foot of the Prokletie mountain range, which is part of the National Park of the same name. The city has a clear imprint of the presence of the Turks in these places, there are several mosques, and the majority of the population professes Islam.

How to get there: the city of Plav is located 180 kilometers northeast of Podgorica. Buses from Podgorica go through the village of Berane, then by taxi. There is no bus station in Plav.

Lake Visitor

Hidden in the vicinity of Plav small lake Visitor (92 meters long and 73 meters wide, with maximum depth 4 meters). The lake has glacial origin, and the pristine nature surrounding the reservoir makes this place magically beautiful.

How to get there: taxi from Plav.

Mountains Prokletiye

To the south of the town of Plav (near the village of Gusinje), the road begins to the Prokletje mountains, which are the natural border between Montenegro and Albania. In the mountains there are many small glacial lakes and ornate rock ledges, for the "construction" of which mother nature has spent millions of years.

Mountains in national park Damn stay the most unexplored mountains in Europe, the place is very remote and "uncivilized" ( hiking trails, as there is no tourism itself), but the natural beauty and friendliness of the locals help to cope with these problems.

How to get there: by taxi a little over 10 kilometers from the village of Gusinye.

City Andrijevitsa

On the way to Prokletije National Park small town Andrievitsa. The city was built at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level, the ruler of Nemanich is considered to be the founder of the city, and the approximate time of foundation is considered to be the XII century.

How to get there: the city is located 156 kilometers northeast of Podgorica, on the way to the Prokletje National Park.

Attractions near Biogradska Gora National Park

City and ski resort Kalashin

The city of Kalashin is surrounded by high mountains and forests with beautiful lakes. Near the city is one of the ski resorts in Montenegro - Ski Resort Kalashin. Kalashin has good transport accessibility and tourist infrastructure.

Moraca monastery

On the way from Podgorica to the city of Kalashin, there is the Moraca Monastery (founded in 1252). In 1504 the monastery was completely destroyed by the Turks, but the Montenegrins restored it. The monastery complex consists of the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin and the Church of St. Nicholas.

How to get there: the easiest way to get to the monastery is by taxi from Kalashyn.

City of Majkovac

On the right bank of the Tara River, at the foot of the Bielashica and Signaevina mountains, is located old City Maykovac. The city is famous for military confrontation (there were many military companies in these places), mining and processing of silver, there was a mint here already in the 14th century.

How to get there: by bus, by train, by car.

Biogradska Gora National Park

The Biogradska Gora National Park is located in the center of the Bijelashica mountain range, next to the Tara and Lim rivers. The park is famous for its relic forests, the average age of trees exceeds 500 years. On the territory of the park, at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level, lies Biogradsko Lake.

How to get there: from Majkovac to the park no more than 5 kilometers, you can get there by bus.

City of Bielo Pole

The city was founded in the XII century and originally belonged to the Serbian kingdom, over the centuries the city passed from hand to hand. The same thing happened with the churches, one of which (the Church of Saints Peter and Paul) was rebuilt overnight into a mosque, and later again into a church.

How to get there: the city is located 118 kilometers north of Podgorica, can be reached by bus, train, car.

City of Berane

Berane is another old Montenegrin city, it was founded in the 13th century (this is the approximate date of the construction of the Dzhurdzheva Stopova monastery), but archaeologists say that people have lived in these places for more than 3,000 years (from the Neolithic to the present day). There are several monasteries in the city and its environs, of varying state of preservation.

How to get there: the city is located 140 kilometers northeast of Podgorica, can be reached by bus or car.

City of Rojaje

The city of Rozaje is the most Muslim city in Montenegro, more than 90% of the population of this small town- Muslims. The city of Rozhaiye is also considered the city - the leader in terms of life expectancy, here good ecology, Mountain air and as a result, a high percentage of centenarians.

There is practically no tourist infrastructure in the city, but the people are friendly, so you won’t have to spend the night on the street. The city has several attractions, but the main reason for which tourists come here is ecological tourism, hunting, climbing, horseback riding, etc.

How to get there: the city is located 170 kilometers northeast of Podgorica, can be reached by bus or car. You should go through Berane, Bielo Pole.

Have a good rest in Montenegro!

Post photos credit: Mario Micklisch / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

BarcelOOOShe! This is how, in my opinion, the name of the city should be written in order to express emotions after visiting this unique place. Today we are going on a non-standard journey through the streets of the historical and cultural center Barcelona. Well, I packed the essentials in a small travel bag, we hit the road.

The beginning of the way

I take off from the recently opened new terminal E from Sheremetyevo Airport, where in half an hour you can get without traffic jams by Aeroexpress. Arriving in advance, I imperceptibly passed the time with free wi-fi. Having studied the weather forecast while waiting and remembering the main interesting places to visit, I was sure that now I know almost everything about Barcelona. Moreover, this is my second trip to this city.

A little more than four hours of flight passed in one breath, since the aircraft was almost in full force flying to Mobile World Congress, and this is a great time to exchange experiences with representatives of different companies involved in modern technologies. After all, one of the goals of our Inspiration Tour was the presentation of a new line of smartphones HTC One— devices of a new generation with the embodiment of the most daring engineering and design solutions.

When I landed at the Barcelona airport, I realized that the weather forecast had not deceived me - the promised 13 degrees, even in the late evening, were comfortable after minus 7 in Moscow.

The first question of an elderly driver named Francesco, who met me, was whether I knew Catalan. I was very surprised and asked how it differs from Spanish. The fact is that Barcelona is the capital of the province of Catalonia, and all the inhabitants are very proud of this and distinguish themselves as a separate nation in multinational Spain. After some formalities, we went to the hotel. The road took no more than 15 minutes - and here we are in one of the central hotels of the city. In the evening, I no longer had the strength for a night walk, and I decided to get enough sleep before tomorrow's busy day. And these forces, as it turned out, were very useful.

Presentation of HTC One S

Popular

Waking up in the bright Spanish morning sun, I went to breakfast. A huge amount of fresh fruit, fresh orange juice and a light breakfast finally transferred me to a country of a completely different mood. The presentation was scheduled for 11 o'clock, and since the Inspiration Tour itself was organized by the European division of HTC under the leadership of the British, it began to the minute.

Representatives different countries Europeans gathered at a round table to be the first to see and experience the new HTC One S. At the end of the presentation, each participant was given brand new smartphones and arranged a kind of competition: everyone must shoot everything that he will observe during the further excursion. Based on the results of the competition, the best shot will be selected. At first I was skeptical about the capabilities of the smartphone in terms of high-quality photos (and grabbed my professional camera), but after taking a few shots, I was finally convinced that the HTC One S announced at the presentation takes excellent pictures. After all, the camera of the new smartphone is the pride of HTC. The camera itself on the phone turns on almost instantly, 8 megapixel resolution, various shooting modes, including in low light, a series of photos by simply holding the button, instant switching from photo to video mode and vice versa - this is far from full list features of the HTC One S camera phone.

Secret places in Barcelona

So , having become a little familiar with the interface of the smartphone, we moved forward along tourist places Barcelona. This was the peculiarity of our Inspiration Tour to see unusual places that only locals know. Having made friends with the guide, we set off for new experiences.

Our starting point was the Museum of Modern Art. Not far from it there is a unique place for which the locals themselves call Barcelona the Second capital of the skateboard. Here we observed a large number of skateboarders skillfully performing various tricks. Some of our group of tourists had the opportunity to ride a skateboard. The quality of photos on the HTC One S in dynamics turned out to be simply excellent and comparable to professional equipment.

Architecture and library

Next, we went to meet the famous city architect Alexei Gimenez, who took part in the construction of various buildings during the 1992 Olympics, which took place in Barcelona. The meeting was scheduled for historical place near the hospital of St. Pau, founded in 1401. The place is truly unique and very beautiful, with lots of greenery and a fountain in the middle of the patio. City residents love to just relax here, chat with other citizens, contemplate the stone vaults of various buildings. The city library is also located here, where every resident of Barcelona can find a book to his liking.

Local restaurants

After walking a little more through the narrow streets of Barcelona, ​​we looked into a restaurant where we decided to try the local traditional cuisine, including insanely delicious seafood. Over lunch, we had the opportunity to chat with HTC's chief designer Claude Zellweger, who was creating HTC's new vision for a user-friendly and feature-packed smartphone. The most popular question turned out to be why HTC did not release smartphones with different color schemes of the back panels - this would attract the young and active part of the users of these devices. Claude promised to think over the proposal and thanked everyone for the rave reviews about the convenience and ergonomics of the device.

Having replenished our reserves of strength, we headed for a very mysterious place to a meeting with VJ Damian A. Pissarra, where in the basement this young and ambitious photographer and videographer creates unique video installations combined with psychedelic and trance music. Damian achieves truly beautiful and mesmerizing scenes broadcast on a large screen in a video studio using various graphic and light filters on a conventional camera and camcorder. Everything happens live, and each visitor can become a co-author of this work.

Despite the absence of sweltering heat (in Barcelona during the day it was about 15 degrees Celsius), many participants of the tour expressed a desire to try cold local beer in one of the establishments called London Bar. The place resembles a classic English pub with live sound. In the bar we had a chance to talk with the owner of the unique voice of Tori Sparks, who performed her works with an acoustic guitar. Tory told her story of creative inspiration in Barcelona, ​​where she often returns after numerous tours.

Puppet Theatre

The final stage of our Inspiration Tour was the Puppet house puppet theater led by the talented and very friendly Carlos Lopez. Located in an inconspicuous building, this place has its own history and fantastic energy. Huge human-sized dolls look almost like real people. Carlos and his comrades create the heroes of various stories with their own hands, write scripts and stage productions on an improvised stage here. We tried to control the puppets and participated in a small performance - it turned out to be quite difficult, as it seems at first glance. This is a whole art that fascinates. All members of the group were so passionate about what was happening that the time passed completely unnoticed.

Party

Tired , but very pleased with the emotions and impressions received, all participants of the Inspiration Tour went to the hotel to have a little rest before the HTC Party - a grandiose party in a club overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. After having dinner in one of the restaurants in the city and exchanging impressions with other participants of the tour, we went to Barcelona at night. Because in this moment Since the city hosted the Mobile World Congress, there were a lot of foreign visitors in the club. The atmosphere turned out to be very friendly, everyone could not only chat with the interlocutor they liked, but also make interesting acquaintances.

Traditional Barcelona

Having had a good sleep (fortunately, the time difference with Moscow allowed me to do this), the next day I went to the traditional tourist places of Barcelona. The city has not changed much since my last visit - it has remained just as cute, interesting and attractive.

Think , photos from the gallery will tell better than words about the beauties of Barcelona - a city where you want to return again and again for new emotions and impressions, which are sorely lacking in everyday Moscow everyday life. And going to the airport in the evening, you catch yourself thinking about how beautiful our world is, in which there is a place for such short, but at the same time bright trips that give energy to create with even greater enthusiasm.

Non-touristic places and non-obvious routes of the Portuguese capital.

Lisbon is often called one of the most romantic European capitals. But that's not the point. Today Lisbon, like Berlin or Barcelona once, is the epicenter of contemporary art. All the young creativity, all the energy of current music, painting, poetry, architecture are concentrated here and, combined with the beautiful, albeit somewhat tired appearance of the city, creates an amazing effect.

1. Funiculars

Lisbon consists entirely of hills, so funiculars remain one of the most popular modes of transport here. There are three of them here: Bika, Lavra and Gloria. They look about the same, shabby yellow trailers with wooden benches climbing up the steep, winding streets. The first and oldest of the funiculars in Portugal is the Lavra. He is, oddly enough, the most quiet and unknown. Perhaps because there is not a word about it in the guidebooks. The final stop is in the secret urban garden of Torel, from where a magnificent circular panorama of Lisbon opens. The most colorful route is Bica, its station is located in Bairro Alto, on the path of tram 28.

2. Tram 28

Actually, the same funicular, only a tram. Route number 28, passing through the old city (Grasse, the castle of St. George, the labyrinths of Alfama, the center, Chiado, Bairro Alto and Estrela) is at the same time the best tour according to the most beautiful places capital of Portugal. A ticket for 24 hours costs 3.95 euros. You can ride until you get bored, getting off at stops, wandering into cathedral museums, tasting wine in kiosks, and then just get on the next tram. The same ticket is valid for buses and metro.

3. Church of San Domingos

An incredible, absolutely mystical temple in the very center of Lisbon. Amazing beauty and grace, the 18th century cathedral survived a fire, as a result of which the entire interior, as well as murals and frescoes, were almost completely and irretrievably lost. For some unknown reason, the temple was decided not to be restored, but it lives on, and services are held in it regularly. The grey, as if scarred walls, the crippled altar, the worn-out plaster, the light penetrating through the high windows, and the light, barely perceptible smell of burning somehow produce an effect much greater than the richest decoration.

4. Wine cellar Chafariz do Vinho

The vinoteca is located inside the monumental city aqueduct of the 18th century. You can go on a guided tour of the aqueduct, and then go to Chafariz do Vinho for a tasting. Some believe that this is one of the best places to get acquainted with local wines - in any case, the most interesting Portuguese sauvignon and chardonnay are collected here. During happy hours, from 18:00 to 20:30, you can taste four varieties of wine at half price.

5. K Urban Beach Bar

It is best to come to the bar on the banks of the Tagus River at sunset, when the rays of the sun are reflected simultaneously in the river itself and in the pool without an edge, along which wooden walkways are laid. The bar is open three months a year - from July to September, and this the best place for relaxed meditation on the couch with a glass of red.

6. Restaurant A Camponesa de Santa Catarina

Canteen in the highest sense of the word, a restaurant with homemade Portuguese cuisine. The decor is appropriate: worn tiles on the walls, soup in a saucepan, roast in pots, a long table for a large company. The portions are huge, the food is hearty and incredibly tasty. A bottle of wine costs 5 euros. Lunch smoothly flows into dinner, until it finally gets dark outside.

7. Confeitaria Nacional

Confectionery, existing since 1829. Classics of the genre: vintage interior, mirrors, the crunch of a parchment wrapper, the aromas of chocolate and mountains of all kinds of treasures on the counters flooded with light: marzipans, chocolate, hot Portuguese pies pastel, orange nougat ... In the mornings it’s not overcrowded here - the townspeople come to have breakfast, but by noon you can completely settle down on the veranda with a cup strong coffee.

8. Fado restaurant and club Clube de Fado de Alfama

One of the secret places of the capital of Portugal in order to hear not a tourist, but a real fado. The club is also a restaurant owned by singer Mario Pacheco. Sad songs about love are understandable without translation. The evening proceeds in much the same way as a tango evening in Buenos Aires or a flamenco evening in Madrid: everyone sits at tables, drinks port wine and listens.

9. Portinho da Arrabida beach

One of the most beautiful beaches around Lisbon. A bay surrounded by rocks with bright emerald water and yellow sand. Nearby there is a similar and also incredibly picturesque Coelhos beach, which is ideal for snorkelling. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), you can only get here by car.