By Khilen Mehta

From May 2nd to May 4th, basketball’s most important competition comes to Madrid’s Palacio de Deportes. This event is guaranteed to cause a stir in the city as the continent’s best four teams battle it out to become European basketball champions. In a city so dominated by football, there was always a risk that the event could be overshadowed by the end of the football season, but basketball has firmly established itself as Madrid’s second sport.

To add to the excitement this year, a Spanish club has made it through to the final four. Tau Ceramica, from the capital of the Basque country, Vitoria, will be battling it out at the beginning of May against the likes of Russia’s CSKA Moscow, Israel’s Maccabi Elite and Italy’s Montepaschi Siena.

The favourites for the competition will be CKSA Moscow. With easily the biggest budget of any of the teams, their team value and class easily surpasses any of the remaining teams. Having already beaten Tau Ceramica home and away, few will bet against them reaching the final at least. CSKA have already reached the final six times before and will also be looking for revenge after being beaten in last year’s final. Maccabi Elite are also in the Final Four for the fourth time in five seasons and will be looking to clinch their third title within this time period. Italian champions Montepashci Siena are back again for the third time in six seasons, but going up against some of European basketball’s mightiest powers, head coach Simone Pianigiani may be happy to have his team considered the underdogs in Madrid. As Spain’s sole representative in the competition, all eyes will be on Tau Ceramica. They will be making their fourth consecutive appearance at the Euroleague Basketball Final Four this season, but are still chasing their first Euroleague crown.With the popularity of basketball in Spain these days, tickets for the event are hard to come by. But make sure your keep your eyes peeled for any shocks during the three days.Also make sure you take a look at the May edition of European Vibe magazine for an exclusive interview with Tau Ceramica player Will Mcdonald!

by Maja Gojkovic

If your not lucky enough to be escaping elsewhere for the May puente, then there is plenty that you can be doing right here in Madrid. If you fancy doing something different and finding out a little bit more about dos de mayo the Madrid 2nd May 1808-2008 One people, One nation exhibition is a great place to start. The exhibition is a virtual journey that recreates, from the hand of writer, journalist and member of the Spanish Royal Academy Arturo Pérez-Reverte, a journey in time commemorating the bicentenary of the uprising of the people of Madrid against Napoleon’s troops in 1808.  With the helpful use of a virtual tour it helps in viewing the recreation of incidents that occurred in the streets of Madrid from the early hours of May 2nd, 1808 until early next morning.

Visitors will have access to the hall where original pieces and reproductions of different objects from the time are displayed, including objects such as utensils, weapons, engravings, uniforms and much more.  The exhibition is divided into seven areas which offer a chronological account of what happened during the 20 hours in which the uprising by the people of Madrid against the invasion of Napoleon’s troops took place, triggering the beginning of the Spanish War of Independence. The precedents are explained, as well as events that sparked off the uprising, the offensive carried out by the French army, the urban guerrilla which fought the invasion, the battle between both armies, the landscape after the battle and a final report of the consequences resulting from these events as well as the people who lost their lives in the uprising.  If going to museums is not one of your favorite pastimes, you may be about to change your mind. This exhibition is a great way to discover such an important part of Spanish history. The virtual journey makes the exhibition a fun and easy way of learning something new.  

If you’re interested in seeing this exhibition it will run from  26th April 2008 - 30th June 2008.Venue: Canal Art Centre Schedule:

From 10:00am to 9:00pm Price: EUR6.

For the under 12 years old and the over 65s EUR4.

Guided visits (big groups) from Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 3:00pm and also on Monday from 4:00pm to 9:00pm. EUR65 in Spanish and EUR150 in any other languages during working days, EUR118 in Spanish and EUR170 in any other languages during the weekend and holidays.

Bus: 5, 27, 42, 49, 66, 67, 70, 107, 124, 134, 135, 147, 149 Metro: Plaza de Castilla

by Maja Gojkovic

Keeping with the theme of things to do during the dos de mayo celebrations- European vibe are just full of ideas. On May 2nd 1808, the people of Madrid rose up in rebellion against the French occupation. Four important figures that witnessed these events from their particular perspective were; Francisco de Paula, King Fernando VII, the young Madrilenian seamstress Manuela Malasaña and artist Francisco de Goya. Their different accounts of this historic event are featured in a dramatised tour that takes you throughout the city as their story unfolds from beginning to end.

The tour is a great way to visually learn and understand exactly what happened and helped shape Spain’s history during the important era. The tour is a great idea if reading guide books or listening to audio tapes at museums bores you. If you have children your in luck as the live play atmosphere is a lot of fun and is definitely something to keep them quiet for a while.

The tour departs from Plaza Mayor, 27 (Centro de Turismo de Madrid) on 26th April, May 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th at 8pm; and May 2nd at 5pm. 

The tour costs 7,35 euros for adults with a reduced price of 6,35 for under 25s ,students, retired people and unemployed people

If you would like more information on the tour you can call information on: (+34) 91 588 29 06 / (+34) 91 588 16 36 or visit the website at: descubremadrid@munimadrid.es

By Khilen Mehta

European nights at Anfield are known for their passion, their energy and the vociferous nature of the fans. Last night was no exception. Under the presence of controversial owner Tom Hicks, the fans were loud and the team was superb. The club has been shrouded under dark clouds recently but deep into extra time, it seemed that all was well again in Liverpool’s world. The famous anthem reverberated around the ground and the fans thought they were about to witness another great Anfield european night.

They say you create your own luck in football. Yesterday Chelsea did nothing to back up this statement but still somehow came out of the game with one foot in the Champions League Final in Moscow. There were 94 mins played when this Champions League semi-final tie was turned on its head by John Arne Riise’s own goal. For all their shortcomings in the league, Liverpool showed just why they are so feared in Europe. Chelsea owed much to the class of their goalkeeper, Petr Cech, who reaffirmed his status as the best keeper in the world. Without him, this tie could easily have been out of reach but at the end of the night, Chelsea held the advantage.

For over an hour Liverpool continually piled forward and played Chelsea off the park. In midfield, Alonso and Mascherano were superb and upfront Dirk Kuyt was a constant menace. Kuyt has come in for a lot of stick but his run of scoring in every round of the Champions League continued last night as he gave Liverpool the lead before half time. In the second half, Liverpool upped the tempo and it looked like they could have scored two or three more but were thwarted every time by the ever impressive Petr Cech. Many of Chelsea´s players in contrast didn’t even look interested in comparison. Dider Drogba, for example, spent more of his time feigning injury than he did trying to get Chelsea back in the game.

But such is football. In recent seasons some will say that Liverpool will have had their fair share of luck in the competition, and last night they learnt that fate works both ways. It was a moment of madness from John Arne Riise. He has proven himself to be so one footed in recent seasons, that Liverpool fans had their hearts in their mouths when the ball came across the area. One moment of madness later, and Chelsea all off a sudden held the advantage.

Liverpool though will not be too worried. Although the records show that they are yet to score a goal at Stamford Bridge under Benitez, the Champions league brings out the best in Liverpool and they are yet to play there with Fernando Torres. Inspired by recent runs in the competition, the fans, players and even the manager are still visibly bullish.

Chelsea will be thinking they have one foot in the final. But Liverpool Football Club is built for occasions like this. Chelsea beware, come next wednesday, we will come out fighting.

by Maja Gojkovic

As Madrid prepares itself for the commemoration on May 2nd 1808, the city will be hosting an amazing cultural programme featuring exhibitions, publications and a spectacular street display in order to remember the day on which the people of Madrid rose up in rebellion against the Napoleonic troops, changing the history of Spain.  

One event that will definitely be on my list of things to see will be the street performances. The larger than life streets show 6 Goyas 6 that have been created by Pere Pinyol, with musical direction by Carles Santos and features special performances by La Fura dels Baus and Carles Padrissa. The show is based on works by Francisco de Goya, and portrays the most significant events of the uprising. Works by the artist will become alive in a historic interpretation incorporating dance, theatre, parades and music by prestigious creators and companies.

The street performances will take place over the Prado Museum, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor, Plaza de Dos de Mayo, Plaza de Oriente and Cibeles.The shows will start on May 1st in the afternoon although the central part of the show will take place throughout the evening of May 2nd, with La Fura’s closure in Cibeles.  If you’re interested in checking out the street displays, they will be hosted on:1st May- Prado Museum at 18.002nd May- Puerta del Sol/Plaza Mayor at 18.00

2nd May-Plaza de dos de Mayo/Plaza de Oriente at 21.00

2nd May- Plaza de Cibeles at 21.30  This is promised to be an amazing event and well worth seeing, so if again you’re in Madrid during the ‘dos de mayo’ celebrations check this one out and the best part is its totally free. 

by Cynthia Goldman

I never thought I’d be so happy and so sad to leave a foreign, predominantly Muslim country. After being in Istanbul, Turkey for six days for what was originally a school trip, I was finally able to leave the country.

I had realized I lost my passport seconds before loading the bus to the airport. Of course, I panicked. I cried. I had no idea what to do. I asked myself why? How could this happen to me? I was forced to stay another day. Fortunately my brilliant religion professor was kind enough to stay with me. In the end, losing a passport in such an exotic city might’ve happened for the best. It was the most amazing experience I have had in my time studying abroad!

The country of Turkey is in both southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea. Istanbul is in the northwestern part of the country with a population of at least 10 million people. It is roughly the size of Los Angeles. The ethnic mix is mostly Turkish although it is easy to see a diversity of people and religions. Never in one city had I seen so many Catholic churches, Jewish synagogues and Islamic mosques. Nor women dressed in full-bodied black dresses with veils and gloves walking down the street chatting with their girlfriend in a miniskirt and blue hair.

The city is both modern and ancient. Istanbul was founded way back in 660 BC as Byzantium. In 330 AD, it was renamed Constantinople by Constantine the Great, who made it the capital of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. In 1204, the city was raided by Crusaders, and then two and a half centuries later it was taken by the Turks. Istanbul was the official name in 1930.

Walking in front of the Blue Mosque in Sultanahmeht square, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the mosque framed between colourful tulips and clear, sunny skies. And suddenly there’s a call for prayer that adds to the mysticism and beauty. It is absolutely spellbinding!

The grand bazaar is teeming with activity with vendors speaking several languages in attempts to lure customers in there shops. You can find almost anything at the bazaar like gold jewelry and precious stones, colourful lamps, hookahs, and knockoff purses and bags.

Although the vendors could be too much sometimes, I found the Turkish people incredibly warm-hearted. When I was sitting on the hotel floor crying over my lost passport the hotel staff and travel agent were so kind telling me not to worry. Smile. Istanbul wanted me to stay. At the Turkish police station, the officers joked around and offered me apple tea while efficiently writing up my missing passport report. The travel agent who so kindly booked me another flight home and translated everything to English took my professor and me out to dinner.

Dinner was amazing. We ate at vine-covered outdoor restaurant next to a busy little pedestrian street, ancient Ottaman artefacts and a fresh foods market. The owner of the restaurant was so kind to treat us to the most delicious fruits and vegetables with fresh baked bread that was spread with hummus, butter and cheese. Then we ate kebabs with lamb, chicken, beef, rice and yogurt. I would tell you the name of the foods but I don’t speak Turkish and have a horrible memory for names.

In the end, staying an extra day in Turkey may have happened for the best. It was truly a revelational experience to see such a completely different and beautiful culture on my own. I feel that most people would have to witness it to completely understand it. As I got off the plane in Barajas Airport, I felt happy to be “home” and lucky to have gotten my passport. But also lucky to have had such a wonderful taste of Turkey.

by Maja Gojkovic

Pop sensation and recent chart topper Estelle has launched the ‘Get Lippy’ campaign. The Body Shop & MTV Networks UK & Ireland campaign, are aiming to increase awareness of HIV/Aids amongst 15-24 year olds. Many young people believe HIV will never touch their lives; globally over 40 million people live with HIV and AIDS. Shockingly, half of all new HIV infections are among young adults under 25.

Awareness surrounding HIV prevention has been in decline and has been a contributing factor for the expanding epidemic in the under 25 age group and the motive behind the campaign. The campaign organized by The Body Shop and MTV Networks will run a 10 week ‘Get Lippy’ campaign, selling a new Limited Edition Guarana Lip Butter for £5. All the proceeds from every Guarana Lip Butter sold goes directly to the Staying Alive Foundation, funding HIV awareness and prevention for young people around the world. Estelle and other celebrities including Annie Lennox have decided to back the campaign in order to help make 2008 the year for everyone to ‘Get Lippy’ and start talking about HIV prevention.

Limited edition Guarana Lip Butters can be purchased from all The Body Shop stores in the UK and Ireland or www.thebodyshop.co.uk. It is only available for 10 weeks and ends on the 5th June 2008. For more information regarding the campaign and HIV/AIDS awareness visit http://www.staying-alive.org.

Por Carla Vázquez Jones

Hay que dejar en el armario hasta octubre 2008 los colores pardos, oscuros, en general, los tonos invernales, porque con la primavera, la sangre altera.; como ya decía el dicho. De ahí, los colores vivos y alegres. Este año no iba a ser menos. La moda viene cargada con la protagonista particular de la estación: la flor. En la calle, las personas parecen ramos de flores. El estampado floral vaya donde vaya trae consigo un éxito asegurado, y además la variedad de flores es ilimitada: color, forma, tamaño, etc. Durante el día en el trabajo o en la universidad, o incluso para ir a pasear al parque; de tarde para tomar un café con los amigos y de noche en una fiesta. Tal estampado alegre nos avisa que el verano está a la vuelta de la esquina y nos hace sonreír con tanto colorido. Ya que… ¿a quién no le gustan las flores?

De la cantidad de tipología floral doy paso a otra tendencia: el multiculturalismo, ligado a su vez con la idea de la globalización que estamos viviendo en estos momentos. Aquí hago un respiro y comento que las personas no suelen vincular la idea de que la moda, un elemento de identificación y expresión personal, va muy a la par con los acontecimientos de la sociedad y de la cultura. Así concluyo que después de escuchar a tantos políticos hablar sobre la globalización, de una forma u otra se tenía que ver una representación del concepto encima de una pasarela y dentro de las tiendas. En la imagen se puede observar la inspiración safari que tiene el estampado del vestido. Sin embargo, esta tendencia no se limita a las costas africanas, sino se pueden ver pinceladas de distintas culturas en prendas ajenas a éstas

Esta temporada estar a la última es fácil, uno sólo tiene que echar un vistazo a la naturaleza y a las culturas vecinas.

By Khilen Mehta

As Barcelona stumbled again this weekend, Real Madrid took advantage of this slip up to move ten points clear at the top of the table. With just five games left this season, Real could mathematically seal the title next weekend if results go their way.Real sealed a 2-0 victory at Racing Santander at the weekend with goals coming in each half from Raul and Gonzalo Higuain in the final minute. Reports say that the home team threatened the Real goal many times but were thwarted on each occasion by the impressive Iker Casillas. In the end, Real’s class showed through and few can now bet against them clinching the title before the end of the season.This was a far cry from events in the Nou Camp, where Barcelona could only manage a 0-0 draw at home to Espanyol. At the end of the game, a group of 30 violent Barcelona supporters attacked the presidential box after the game and demanded changes to be made for next season. It seems time could be up for Frank Rijkaard and a host of players as the supporters brought out the white handkerchiefs at the end of the game, signifying their disapproval at the performance. Samuel Eto’o came out publicly and threatened to leave the club if the club experience another season like this one. He told RAC1 radio station, “in Spain my cycle has finished. I have touched the ceiling in Barcelona, so if I leave I will go abroad. I will go to whoever pays the most.”With a massive Champions League double header to come against Manchester United, it seems not even victory in the European Cup will be enough to convince some of the major players that this is not a club in turmoil.

By Khilen Mehta

In order to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the events of May 1808 and the start of the Spanish war of independence, the Prado has opened up a special exhibition to commemorate the works of Goya. The exhibition will fall within the framework of the commemorative programme sponsored by the National Committee for the Bicentenary of the Spanish War of Independence and visitors have the opportunity to witness more than 200 works of Goya.

The show will focus on the two great canvases of 1808 and 1809, which are currently being cleaned and restored, but will also analyse and focus on Goyas work in a broader context. More than 65 paintings will be loaned for the exhibition from other insitutions and private collections. These include Majas on the Balcony and Portrait of the Marchioness of Montehermoso, both from private collections; Friar Pedro de Zaldivia clubs Maragato the Bandit from The Art Institute of Chicago; The Capture of Christ from Toledo Cathedral, and a group of nine works loaned by the Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, Madrid. All the paintings are essential to the theme of the exhibition and they will be used to further portray the context of the artistic development of Goya.

All in all, the quality of paintings on display is sure to make this one of the finest international art exhibitions on the works of Goya since the last one organised by the Prado in 1996.

Date:
15 April to 13 July 2008

Ticket prices
General entry: 6€
Reductions and free entry according to regulations
Advance booking for individual visitors: 9€
Free admission: from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 8 pm and Sandays from 5pm to 8 pm