LIFESTYLE
Welcome to Messi’s restaurant in Barcelona: Bellavista del Jardin del Norte
Published
7 years agoon
By
FAB.NGLionel Messi has another garden in Barcelona. Having made the Camp Nou his playground for well over a decade, the Argentine attacker teamed up with his brother Rodrigo and sister Maria Sol last year to open “Bellavista del Jardin del Norte”, an innovative restaurant in the Catalan capital.
Situated in the Eixample, north of La Rambla and Barcelona’s old town, this establishment lies on the elegant street of Enric Granados. And right opposite, there is a dry cleaners called “Tintorería Hungría”.
Messi made his international debut against Hungary and Bellavista del Jardin del Norte is his first foray into the restaurant industry, although eldest brother Rodrigo – who is a culinary enthusiast – is in charge of the project along with restaurateur brothers Juan Carlos, Borja and Pedro Iglesias.
The Barcelona forward helped pay for the venture, which is believed to have cost around €2.5 million, and has seen the Messi’s link up with interior design firm “El Equipo Creativo” to build a restaurant that owes as much to fine dining as it does to its intriguing concept.
From the outside, it is impossible to tell what lies within. A whole new world awaits behind the big glass facade and walking into the restaurant takes the visitor on a trip to an imaginary place, complete with newspaper kiosk, barber shop, market, bar, church, fountain, town square and, of course, the garden itself.
Conceptually, El Jardín de Bellavista is laid out as a town. It is not Rosario, Messi’s place of birth, although there is mention of the Argentine city on the fountain, where those dining can refill their bottles with fresh spring water for no extra charge.
It is not Barcelona, either, although there are references to the city’s most famous club, especially with the press cuttings on display at the kiosk, while Spanish and Catalan comedy monologues blare out in the bathrooms.
One woman was worried her husband had passed out, staff at the restaurant told Goal, and went to see what was wrong. As it transpired, he had merely been in there for over half an hour laughing at the jokes.
There are signed shirts on display from Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar, as well as big screens that show the big games. Meanwhile, customers can play video games from the 1980s and 1990s, too, as well as spinning a selection of thousands of vinyl albums. Beyond the food, the drink and the memorabilia, there is much to keep visitors entertained.
Upstairs, there are four “balconies” that can be hired out for groups, with space for between 10 and 14 people. These offer complete privacy and are all equipped with large-screen TVs, cable, a PlayStation 4, Netflix and a selection of music.
Messi and Suarez are regular visitors, while Gerard Pique posted a picture with staff from his company Kerad Games in a staff function at the restaurant just before Christmas last year.
Initially, there were complaints from the neighbours to the local media ahead of the opening of Bellavista del Jardín del Norte, even though the restaurant reached out to the local community and has opened up the garden (which covers 1,000 square meters – as much as the interior) as a place where they can sit and relax, even without consuming.
“Welcome to the town of Bellavista del Jardín del Norte,” reads the introduction on the restaurant’s website. “It is the typical small town we all know and love. Bellavista brings together a fusion of gastronomic delights in a new and exciting setting that is sure to please. Come on in and be amazed!”
The restaurant offers a selection of Iberian, Catalan and house-prepared cold meats, cheeses, canned seafood, tapas and a range of vegetable dishes and appetizers along with exotic main course choices such as razor clams in passion fruit ceviche, Alaskan salmon sashimi, veal tartare, fresh oysters and a variety of soups and stews, including southeast Asian oxtail soup with Wagyu beef and cuttlefish meatballs in black ink sauce with saffron aioli.
Leaning on a significant Argentine influence, meat dishes include pancetta with barbeque sauce and pickled onions, Iberian pork feather loin and Galician veal sirloin (200 grams each) or a veal steak to share between two (400g).
And if seafood is your thing, there is plenty of that too, such as charcoal grilled bluefin tuna and tuna loin tataki with apple and turnip, as well as a daily fish selection.
There are a number of rice dishes, including vegetable or seafood paella and seafood black rice, while also to be found on the menu is Messi’s favourite dish: milanesa napolitana a caballo (breaded veal sirloin served with ham, melted cheese, tomato sauce, and a breaded egg). And it costs just €14.50.
Many of the prices are significantly higher than that, but the food is excellent and the service is impeccable.
The overall experience is also unique and for fans of Messi or for fine diners in search of a culinary treat in a very different environment, Bellavista del Jardín del Norte is well worth a visit.
Source: goal.com
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LIFESTYLE
How To Keep Your Apartment Cool Without Air Conditioning
Published
1 day agoon
June 8, 2024As temperatures rise, keeping your apartment cool becomes a top priority. While air conditioning is the go-to solution for many, there are several effective ways to cool your living space without AC. By implementing a combination of strategies, you can create a comfortable environment even during the hottest days of summer.
1. Utilise natural ventilation
Natural ventilation is one of the simplest and most effective ways to cool your apartment. Open windows and doors on opposite sides of your apartment to encourage cross-ventilation. This allows for fresh air to flow through your space, dissipating heat and creating a cooling breeze.
2. Harness the power of fans
Fans are invaluable tools for circulating air and creating a cooling effect. Invest in portable fans or utilise ceiling fans if available. Position fans strategically to maximise airflow, such as by placing them near windows or doorways to draw in cooler air from outside or create a cross breeze within your apartment.
3. Block out sunlight
Direct sunlight can quickly heat up your apartment, so it’s essential to block out as much sunlight as possible during the hottest parts of the day. Close curtains or blinds to keep out sunlight, particularly on windows that receive direct sunlight. Consider using reflective or blackout curtains for maximum effectiveness.
4. DIY air conditioning
Create your DIY air conditioning system by placing bowls of ice in front of fans. As the ice melts, the fan will blow cooler air into your living space, providing temporary relief from the heat. You can also hang damp towels in front of open windows to cool incoming air as it passes through.
5. Reduce heat-generating activities
Minimise activities that generate heat within your apartment, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Avoid using hot water appliances, cooking on stovetops, or running electronics that produce heat. Opt for cooler cooking methods like grilling or using a microwave instead.
6. Optimise insulation
Ensure your apartment is well-insulated to keep cool air in and hot air out. Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent air leaks. Consider using heat-reflective materials on windows or exterior walls to reduce heat absorption.
7. Stay cool with smart habits
Incorporate heat-resistant materials into your living space, such as lightweight, breathable fabrics for bedding and clothing. Additionally, create a comfortable sleeping environment by using cotton sheets and lightweight blankets.
Conclusion
Cooling your apartment without air conditioning is achievable with a combination of simple yet effective strategies. By utilising natural ventilation, fans, sunlight-blocking techniques, DIY air conditioning methods, and smart habits, you can create a comfortable living space even during the hottest days of summer. Experiment with different approaches to find the combination that works best for your apartment and lifestyle, and enjoy a cool and refreshing environment all summer long.
Long-term solutions to keep your apartment cool
-
Weather Stripping: Draughty windows and doors can allow hot air to seep in. Invest in weather stripping to seal any gaps and improve your apartment’s insulation.
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Attic Ventilation: If your apartment gets particularly hot, consider improving attic ventilation. This helps to remove hot air trapped in the attic before it radiates down into your living space.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively cool your apartment and create a comfortable haven during the hottest summer months. Remember, consistency is key. By making small adjustments to your daily routine and utilising these cooling hacks, you can keep cool and beat the heat without relying on air conditioning.
If you enjoyed reading this article, consider reading more here.
Vaginal dryness is a common issue many women face during sex, and it can significantly impact intimacy. Unlike what some sources might say, lubrication isn’t solely dependent on being “wet” right before sex. It’s a natural process that unfolds with arousal. However, when vaginal dryness occurs, it can lead to discomfort or even pain. This makes sex unpleasant for both partners.
The reasons behind vaginal dryness are varied. It goes from hormonal changes, stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. If you’re experiencing dryness, the first step is to identify the potential cause.
Talking openly and honestly with your partner is key. You can explore different approaches to increasing lubrication, like using lubricants or engaging in foreplay that allows for natural lubrication to develop.
See the different reasons for vaginal dryness below.
1. Absence of or no foreplay
Engaging in foreplay is a way to help a woman become aroused before sex. If she finds it difficult to get aroused, you can touch the sensitive parts of her body, kiss deeply, and spend a lot of time on foreplay. This will help her body become more responsive to yours.
2. Stress
Stress can make it difficult for a woman to be wet and ready for sex. It can get her totally out of the mood, especially if she is also unhappy about something. This can make her upset and unsettling. You must help her relax and ease off before initiating the act.
3. Side effects of medication
Some medications have side effects such as hormonal changes and imbalance, dizziness, and fatigue, which can make a woman not ready for the sex act. Her hormones might be up against her desire to have sex so may not get wet.
Furthermore, a satisfying sexual life is built on mutual enjoyment and open communication. By working together to address dryness, you can create a more pleasurable and fulfilling sexual experience for both of you.
For more updates like this, you can access our sex page here.
Air travel in Africa is soaring! More and more people are choosing to fly, which is fueling investment in bigger and better airports across the continent. This improved infrastructure is making it easier than ever to travel between African countries, boosting both business and tourism. This could be because of the best airport staff we have in Africa.
A fantastic airport experience isn’t just about having the most high-tech gadgets or stunning architecture. The staff who work there are equally important! Their friendliness, helpfulness, and efficiency can significantly impact your overall travel experience.
To recognise airports with exceptional staff, a company called Skytrax recently conducted a survey in Africa. They evaluated various aspects of staff service, including their friendliness, helpfulness, and efficiency. This assessment considered frontline staff across different airport departments, including information desks, security checkpoints, shops, and restaurants.
The first on the list for best airport staff in Africa is:
1. Cape Town International Airport (South Africa)
This airport consistently ranks highly for its modern facilities and excellent passenger experience. In 2024, it went a step further by taking the top spot for having the friendliest, most helpful, and most efficient staff in Africa.
Cape Town International Airport in South Africa claimed the title of having the best airport staff in Africa. Passengers consistently praised their professionalism, courteous demeanour, and ability to navigate any situation smoothly.
Whether you need help finding your gate, navigating customs, or simply having a question, Cape Town International Airport staff are known for going the extra mile to ensure a positive travel experience.
But Cape Town wasn’t alone! Two other airports in Africa impressed travellers with their outstanding staff:
2. Durban King Shaka Airport (South Africa)
Durban’s airport isn’t just known for its impressive design. Passengers also praised the staff for their welcoming personalities and ability to get things done efficiently.
Travellers consistently reported feeling greeted with a smile and appreciated the staff’s attentiveness to their needs, whether it was navigating baggage claims or finding a good place to grab a bite to eat before their flight.
3. Mauritius Airport (Mauritius)
Known as a paradise island getaway, Mauritius boasts an airport that matches its idyllic reputation. The staff here are renowned for their courteous and helpful service, making your arrival and departure a breeze.
Many travellers commented on the staff’s genuine warmth and willingness to assist with any questions or requests. This personal touch goes a long way in setting the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation in Mauritius.
Here’s a look at the other airports in Africa listed for having best staff in 2024:
4. Casablanca Airport (Morocco)
Travellers lauded the Casablanca Airport staff for their efficiency and clear communication, especially when it came to navigating the security process and customs.
5. Seychelles Airport (Seychelles)
The staff at Seychelles Airport were praised for their friendly and laid-back demeanour, perfectly reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of the island nation.
6. Kigali Airport (Rwanda)
Kigali Airport staff impressed travellers with their professionalism and helpfulness. Passengers reported a smooth and efficient travel experience, thanks to the attentiveness of the staff.
7. Marrakech Airport (Morocco)
The staff at Marrakech Airport were recognised for their warm hospitality and willingness to go the extra mile to assist passengers.
8. Nairobi Airport (Kenya)
Nairobi Airport staff received praise for their efficiency and clear communication, especially when dealing with large crowds.
9. Addis Ababa Airport (Ethiopia)
Passengers at Addis Ababa Airport commended the staff for their professionalism and ability to handle diverse travel needs.
10. Rabat Airport (Morocco)
Rabat Airport staff were recognised for their friendly and helpful service, making travellers feel welcome and well-cared for.
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