Everyone knows the British have their quirks. And being British, these aren’t just casual whims, British quirks are written into law. It is illegal to handle a salmon under suspicious circumstances. The law was passed just 31 years ago. Unfortunately, no-one is quite sure what counts as ‘suspicious circumstances’ so it’s best to avoid anything […]
At its heart, the battle between Spanish and Catalan powers is a battle of laws. Spanish politicians defend themselves with the shield of the Constitution while Catalan politicians attack with newly passed laws. The Spanish government has been under pressure for years from the Spanish region of Catalonia’s wish for more autonomy. The battle has […]
aNovember’s events are dominated by the festival of Sant Narcis and Temporada Alta with hundreds of things to do and see. Girona’s ultimate festival Spanning two weekends, this is my favourite time of year in Girona. The city celebrates its patron saint, Sant Narcis, in style: with an amusement fair, chestnuts, drinks stalls (barracas) and […]
The festival of Girona’s patron Saint, Sant Narcis, is the best time of year in Girona. For ten days the city is packed to the seams with literally hundreds of events. There is always so much happening that it is difficult to choose just ten, but here goes… Barraques The most important part of Fires […]
At 9.55 every night, the tension mounts. In every household across the land of Catalonia, matriarchs stare at the clocks, waiting. And then the moment arrives: 10pm. The matriarchs hurl their battle-cries: ‘Once more unto the breach, dear friends – and bring the pots’, and families dart to the front-line of the balconies to wage […]
In October, Girona will hold three more festivals; I love this city! Find out more below. Girona’s ultimate festival Spanning two weekends, this is my favourite time of year in Girona. The city celebrates its patron saint, Sant Narcis, in style: with an amusement fair, chestnuts, drinks stalls (barracas), castellers and performances. Make sure that […]
As tensions rise between the Catalan and Spanish governments, the Catalan people protest, chanting “We’re not afraid.” But as I watch from the balcony, I can’t help but feel they’re wrong: the Catalans should feel afraid. Catalonia is one of Spain’s 17 autonomous regions, overseen by Spain’s central government in Madrid. The Catalan people have […]
Meeting Spanish friends after a summer in the UK, I came down with a nasty dose of kissing culture shock. And based on previous experience, I knew that if I didn’t readjust to the greeting custom fast, the results could be catastrophic.
What’s on in September? Swords, beer and jazz. Check out the line-up of events …
Jem in Girona 