Playgroups

Hi everyone with little ones

I started up a playgroup while a go, on Thursday's at 3pm, in the Turia Park with the little ones.

My situation has changed and I no longer go. I am not sure if anyone does actually go now.

If there are parents out there with children keen to get together with others, please let me know - especially those of you that have got something going and are keen for other children to join in.

It helps to have other children the same age to get together and play. Good for parents to exchange ideas also and to get out of the house!

Just drop me a line - valenciacronica@gmail.com

Bridget

Tennis Aerobics Clinic

Some of you may or may not know but we run a tennis aerobics clinic - tennis drills fast pace on a Friday morning in L'Eliana from 10 - 1130 am with coffee after.

The cost is 10 Euros a session or 6 sessions for 50 Euros.

This has been very successful and we are now beginning another session on Thursday mornings - same time - this will allow more people to come along - as we wish to keep the sessions open to everyone without them being overloaded.

It caters for all levels of tennis as you are not playing against anyone - you just get the opportunity to hit lots of balls yourself - and it is a good aerobic workout. We switch courts halfway through and then have a fun game for the last 15 mins all together.

It is held at the polydeportivo Hendaya - exit 15 (L'Eliana) off the CV 35.

Should you require more information please email me or just let me know if you would like to come along and give it a try,

Thanks
Jan
963638917@telefonica.net

Upholstery repair and cleaning

We have a wonderful, old "Roche Bobois" four piece+ sectional, soft sofa. Has lasted for heaps of years and has no hard surface on it. Has been great for little ones and we still use it for massive teen sleepovers.
Now it is showing the ware and tear and I need to get the old fabric repaired/sewn. The material is outdated but I can use the umpteen numbers of pillows to produce some original fabric. There is a Roche Bobois store here and I have checked on line for the outdated fabric. I thing the best bet is to just get this repaired & cleaned until we are ready to recover the whole thing! Very good quality sectional couch and it is worth it to repair for now. Thanks for any store leads or input into fabric repair here in Valencia. Thanks for your help.
Leslie

Please click on the readers comment below if you know of anywhere

Events and things to do in Valencia

Found some info on upcoming events people might be interested in.

Dansa Valencia Dance Festival from the 25 Apr to 4 May.

Various venues including Principal, Talia,L'Altre Espai and Manantiales Theatre.

Performances to watch out for are said tobe "Nederlands Dans Theater II", the artisticdirector Jiri Kylian studied in Prague and at the Royal Ballet School in London. He founded this innovative and exciting European company in1976. They will open the festival, performing on 25 April.

The closing performance will be the ballet of Victor Ullate, the Zaragoza born director is thef ounder of the first classical ballet company in Spain, he now has his own company bearing his name. Ballet d'Europe will also perform on 29 April among others.

Danseta program and workshops available for children during the Festival.

http://www.centorcoreograficotgv.com/
(Website is a little confusing. I found Spanish info better)


If you're looking for something to do on Sundays

Valencia has many Museums which are often open and many have free entry on Sundays too.

Here are two you may or may not have visited

Casa Museu Benillure

This beautiful 19th Century house and gorgeous garden houses a collection of paintings by Jose Benillure Gil and his son Peppino Benillure as well as some other artists of the same period such as Joaquin Sorolla, Munoz Degrain, Russinol etc

Calle Blanqueries 23 (A few metres walk from the Serranos Towers)

Tel: 963 919 103/04

IVAM - Instituto Valenciano de Arte Moderno

Luis Ramon Marin Photo Exhibit

250 photos chosen from his 36 year career.

Marin was apioneer in Spain in photo journalism and aerial photography. Famous for his photos of important political events, the Spanish Royal family, Spanish culture, people and landscapes.

IVAM Guillem de Castro 118 Tickets: 2 Euro

http://www.ivam.es/


VII Short Film Festival

17 April to 16 May

The movies cannot exceed 15 mins and cover a variety of themes and genres. This year there are some good contributions from Mexican and Argentinian directors.

Radio City Calle Santa Teresa 19 Free 8.30pm to 10.30pm

Every Mon, Wed and Fri

http://www.radiocityvalencia.com/

***
10th Anniversary of L'Hemisferic (Omnitheatre) City of Arts and Sciences until 25 April

Showing the best films they've had since opening 10.00am to 21.00 http://www.cac.es/

***
Madame Butterfly April 8, 11, 14, 17*, 20, 25

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía

Sala Principal 20:30 (3hr performance) http://www.lesarts.com/

Tickets: boxoffice@lesarts.com (or buy at venue ahead of time)
Tel:902 202 383

I've been told there are subtitles on seats in frontfor some seats...Vicky or others who've been may have more info on this.

Thank you to the wonderful Danelle Sofuku for sending this info in!

America's Cup Article worth reading

One thing that I have in place with the Valencia Cronica, is that is about living here and how to enjoy everything on offer etc. I have rarely had anything in it about the America's Cup itself. This was for a reason, as we live and breath it everyday with our partners involvement, so the cronica was a way to escape it for 10 minutes.

Well, probably for the first time, I am including a link to an article and I have just read and for everyone involved, it is worth the read. If you are in LIMBO like my family is, this could make it all a bit clearer for you. Mind you, we are all hanging on Ol Justice Cahn decision (which will probably be delayed...). This article came from the Spanish Newspaper, Levante, so it is what the Spanish have read.

You can read so much about what is happening with the current situation and wonder who to believe and how much is made up by the media. One minute you get your hopes up and the next day you are on the downer again.

Take from this what ever you want, as there will probably be something published tomorrow that will change all of this. Who knows!!! I know that I have given up!

http://www.sail-world.com/indexs.cfm?nid=43349

The Valencia Life Network - publisher@valencialife.net

ZAPATERO SPEAKS OUT

Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero was in Parliament yesterday for his investiture debate, during which he assured the house that the water problems for every autonomy of Spain would be resolved by 2012. Looking directly at opposition,leader Mariano Rajoy, Mr Zapatero stated This is the difference between your government and ours over water problems. He also told the house that the Government would now act positively in its support of the Americas Cup.

GETTING LESS

The Valencian Community has registered almost a 50% drop in real estate deals in the first three months of this year, according to Vicente Carbonell, the head of the Valencian Community Property Register. Mr Carbonell also added that there were a multitude of projects that were on the books but had not yet been started - for two reasons; the financing of the building and the financing of a mortgage for any possible buyer. However, he added that he expected the current drop only to be temporary and not a sign of a general overall trend

Household goods for sale

For Sale!
Contact Libby Johnson McKee (libbyjohnsonmckee@hotmail.com)
h. 96 131 0333
m. 690 224 708

Available Now

Natuzzi Leather Couch – Semi circular, dark brown leather couch. Great condition – 2500 €
TV – 20 inch functional TV – 20€
Couch – well used but works with a cover – 30€

Available in June

TV – 27 inch Samsung TV with good sound – 100€
Refrigerator – large size BlueSky brand. Bought new 2.5 year ago. Freezer on top – 100€
Washing Machine – Zanzuzzi brand. Bought new 2.5 years ago – 100€
Clothes Dryer – BlueSky brand – bought new 4 years ago – 50€
Toaster – 10€
Microwave – 10€
Leather Loveseat couch – coachman style 122cm long – 20€
Desk – Dark brown wood. 160 x 68 cm. Great computer desk. Comes with free desk chair! – 40€
Queen size Sleigh Bed – dark brown wood, head and foot board – 30€
Round kitchen table – sides fold down. 180 cm in diameter – 10€
Bookshelves - set of 2 painted tan bookshelves. 180 h x 76 w – 15€
Kids table and chairs – well worn in the shape of a flower. Chairs have flower back rests – 10€
Kid’s table and chairs – well worn, round. White with purple and pink flowers. – 10€
Coffee table – light wood, dorm room style low coffee table. Great art table for kids or outdoor – 5 €
Peugeot 306 4 door hatchback – yr 2000, 5 speed, 1.6 liter, gasoline 85K – 3000€

Friday Lunches - UPDATE

UPDATE - SEE CHANGES BELOW...
Sorry for the delay in giving the info for this. I am still trying to get back into a routine and getting a bit slack in my organising!

If you are keen to have lunch on Friday (11th April), we are going to Sorsi e Morsi. My friends tell me it is rather yummy. WE will meet at 2pm and it is on Paseo de la Alameda, 44 opposite the Science Musem. The menu del dia is just under 10 euros.

Please email me at valenciacronica@gmail.com if you would like to come.

Also, big thanks to Silvana (the lady on the red bike - pic below), she has booked a table already for Friday 25th at a yummy Crepe restaurant. The Menu del dia has salad, crepes and dessert etc. More detail to follow...

Bridget

www.valencialife.net

**** The Socialist Government has now awarded the contract to extend the road between Valencia and Puzol into a six-land highway instead of the four lanes currently. This, according to former Public Administrations Minister was supposed to have been finished in time for the Americas Cup, but now, work will begin in a few months after the final details have been sorted out. The 15-kilometer-long road will cost 31 million Euros to extend in this way ****

32nd America's Cup Auction

Bidders will have a rare opportunity to purchase catamarans
and Alinghi memorabilia

32nd America's Cup assets to be sold at online auction

April, 8, 2008.- GoIndustry-DoveBid, global leader in the valuation and sale of surplus industrial assets, has been chosen by America's Cup Management (ACM) to conduct the sale of part of the assets used during the past America's Cup competition held in Valencia, (Spain) last July 2007.

Highlights of the assets to be sold are 8 (eight) F. Pajot catamarans used by the umpires, 18 Rayglass rubber inflatable boats (RIB), designer furniture and memorabilia that will include pieces of the main sail belonging to Alinghi and autographed by the crew of the current defender. Equally, this auction will offer the AC class boat GBR 44.

The auction will be held exclusively online through the websites www.32acauction.com and www.goindustry.com . Registration for bidding will be through GoIndustry's website www.goindustry.com and bidding will close on 8th May, 2008.

This auction follows the previously held asset sale last September 2007 managed by DoveBid, now merged with GoIndustry to form GoIndustry-Dovebid, a worldwide leader in industrial asset auctions.

The previous auction was an outstanding success with 98% of all items on auction sold. A total of 9.300 people participated in the bid from 37 different countries. A total of 30.636 bids were placed with 2.010 bidders online simultaneously at a given moment of the auction.

GoIndustry-DoveBid

GoIndustry-DoveBid is a global market leader in the valuation and sale of surplus machinery and equipment. The company combines traditional asset sales experience with innovative eCommerce technology. GoIndustry recently merged with DoveBid and is quoted on the London Stock Exchange's AIM market (Epic: GOI).
**ends**

Fountains schedule - Palau de le Musica

I've probably walked passed this poster 100 times but only just spotted it just today - a schedule for the fountains (music and lights) in front of the Palau!

Musica libre
Sabados, Domingos & dias festivos
12:00 A 14:00

Musica interactivo
Sabados, Domingos, Festivos y visperas
de 20:00 A 22:00 Horas

*Horario susceptibles a cambios

Vicky MacFeidh

Introduction to Massage
A One-Day Seminar with Helen Westwater and Olga Fedina
Saturday 19 April 2008, 10 am to 7:30 pm

Massage has been used over centuries to benefit the body and mind. Discover the theories behind Aromatherapy and Shiatsu and learn basic massage techniques to take home and share with family and friends.

Part One
Aromatherapy massage
Looking at the qualities of base oils and five essential oils and their different applications and energetic properties. Basic massage strokes. Mix your own blend to take away from the day.

Part Two
Shiatsu: Japanese acupressure massage
An introduction to oriental medicine and basic Shiatsu techniques: stretches, palming along the meridians and applying pressure to acupoints.

Wear loose comfortable clothing (no jeans please) and bring two large towels.

Price: 60 euros for the day

An option of a lunch box to take away to the park with delicious and healthy food prepared by Helen Westwater (La Ola Fresca, http://www.laolafresca.com/), including fruit and a cake (7.50 euros). Please order in advance.

Please contact us by phone - 96 331 9874 or 609429678, or e-mail: http://nz.f339.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=info@yogacentrovalencia.com to reserve your place at the seminar

News from Valencia Life

Strikes staged by engine drivers on the Valencian Metro yesterday affected 204 trains out of more than six hundred, and caused disruptions to some sixty thousand passengers. It was also revealed that the next strike will take place on Monday, and further chaos is expected to be caused today when the state railroad RENFE undertakes works on two of the suburban train services

Four days after Valmor Sport authorized the sale of tickets to the Formula 1 races in Valencia next August, yesterday Bancaja came though with an offer of its own: 7,500 entry tickets prices at 395 Euros each including a sleeping area in a specially set up site inside the Valencia Trade Fair Grounds - much along the lines of the Campus Party. Meanwhile Valmor Sport revealed that it only has tickets priced at 375 and 420 Euros left for the European Grand Prix and expects these to be sold out by this weekend

Thanks Leslie for sending this in

QUESTIONS QUESTIONS QUESTIONS

Please send in any questions you may have about Valencia, shops, food, problems, and either I can help or the readers can. I do have 3 years of information that I have collated and I may be able to pull out info to help you or someone else may know.

I always try to help when I can!

Bridget

Organic Produce etc

I would really like to buy more organic produce - fresh fruit and vegetables etc - and also eco-friendly household cleaning stuff etc. Does anybody know of a supermarket/shop that specialises in these things? Preferably somewhere in the city, I am not too familar with the suburbs as yet!
Thanks
Hannah Ortega

ANSWER

From Bridget -
The best shop would have to be
J. Navarro Herbolario
Arzobispo Mayoral, 20 (behind the Ayuntamiento) Council Building in the old town.
Ph 963 522 851
Best to look at the map you so can find it easier. It is quite a big shop and you can get into it on a pedestrian street or the new entrance on San Vincent Matir - not far from Starbucks.

They have all the cleaning products, organic fruit and veg and lots lots more goodies. It isn't the cheapest but it has everything natural, organic that you could wish for.

The other place to buy nice fruit and veg is at the markets but you need to come across the ones that promote themselves at organic. I haven't been there for a while so out of touch who is where.

Please anyone else that knows of good shops, email them in by clicking on the readers comments below. Cheers, Bridget

WANTED

I am looking for two kid bikes, for the age of 3 and 4.
Maybe someone has kids that are grown our of their bike or maybe leaving town.
They can contact me through email hsickler@cs.com or by phone 963 257 907 (easiest via email).
Thank you
Helena

Carrera de la Mujer

Silvana Nieto found out about the detail for this Sunday's Run, so you have four days to get enrolled!

The Run for Breast Cancer Awareness will be next Sunday 13 April at 10 am,

and the last day to enroll will be Thursday 10th.

You can enroll at the Sports Level of every Corte Ingles, and on the web www.carreradelamujer.com .

It costs 4 Euros, 1 being donated to the Cancer Foundation.

The run starts in front of the Corte Ingles at the Nuevocentro Mall and is 5 kms long.

When you enroll, you get an Asics t-shirt and a chip for your shoes among other goodies (the chip you have to return at the end if the Run).

You can run in a team or by yourself.

Silvana Nieto

Regional Food and Drink in Valencia

Over a hundred exhibitors will be taking part in the 20th edition of the Mostra de vins, caves i licors i XVIII d'aliments tradicionals de la Comunitat Valenciana from April 2nd-6th.

Leading wineries and cooperatives from the Region of Valencia, their denomination of Origin Governing Councils, the traditional sausage makers from Requena, Segorbe and Cocentaina, as well as the la Asociación de Formatgers de la Comunitat Valenciana [Cheese producers of the Region of Valencia] will be at their stands between the Calatrava and Flores bridges from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

There will of course be other interesting products, including the "chufas" or tiger nuts from Valencia, traditional Alicante spirits, olive oil, Arrop i Tallaetes, ecological cheese from Catí and not forgetting orange juice.

Among the many interesting activities taking place during La Mostra we should highlight the "Workshop of the Senses" and the Beginner's Wine-Tasting Course organised by the the Federación de Sumilleres de la Comunitat Valenciana [Wine Waiters' Association], CERAI and the Polytechnic University of Valencia.

The fair will also host the Cata Els Bodeguers prize-giving ceremony at bottles of wine will be signed by enologists from the Region's leading wineries. Tastings of sausages and cold meats, an exhibition of rice from the Region of Valencia and Traditional Dances will bring this successful event to a perfect end.

Thank you to Camille Gavériaux-Bernstein for sending this info to me.

Another snip it from www.valencialife.net - Formula 1

ON SALE TODAY
Later today Valmor Sport will place on sale tickets for the Formula 1 race that is to take place next August. Five different categories of ticket are on offer with prices varying from 195 to 480 Euros, and all tickets will be for sitting areas as there is no pedestrian area in the Valencian circuit. The sales open at 10 am and the admissions can be acquired through the El Corte Ingles stores across Spain and Servientrada from Bancaja as well as the Ricardo Tormo Circuit. All in all the circuit will have 26 tribune stands with a total capacity of 112,711 people

Sorolla Exhibiton

Yesterday was the final day of the exhibition of Sorolla in Valencia, that has seen some 450,000 visitors since it opened last November. The exhibition will now travel to Seville, Malaga, Barcelona, Bilbao and the Prado in Madrid before coming back to Valencia for a month before the works are restored to the museums and private collections that own them

Thanks for Vicky MacFeidth for sending this info in

VI Open de Tenis

Here is the website for the Tennis Open that is here in Valencia from the 12th to 20th April
http://www.opencv.es/
David Ferrer (ESP) is one of the Players.
Really cheap tickets for the first few days.

Thanks Kelly Lees for sending that in.

BICI EN VALENCIA

Click to enlarge

It is a fun ride, very safe, if you are within the mass of cyclists, the pace is quite slow, and we'll go together for dinner after!!
The cool model on the poster is the one and only Silvana Nieto (BMW Oracle chica)!!
It is next Friday April 4th, at 7.30 p.m., at Plaza de la Virgen.
The ride starts at 8.00, and it lasts about an hour.
We want to get 1000 people on the mass, to make it the biggest in Spain!! You could be part of it too!! So if you like the idea, spread it around!!
Thanks mates!!
Silvana Nieto

BACK IN VALENCIA

Hi everyone

I am now back in Valencia, and ready to get back into things!

I look forward to anyone keen for the Power Walk on Tuesday at 3pm, and for the usual Coffee Group on Wednesday, Playgroup on Thursday. This Friday being the first of the month is also a Power Walk so 2 walks this week!

Please if you have any information that you would like posted on the website, send it on in! Remember to email any photos as a seperate attachment. Any text can be sent in email form.

Cheers
Bridget

Travel Cot For Sale

Graco® Petite Bassinette Travel cot

Product description : Snug newborn travel crib with canopy to shade bright lights

Product details : click on the link below
http://www.mothercare.com/gp/product/B0012XH3SQ/sr=1-23/qid=1205416781/ref=sr_1_23/202-1303334-8103864?ie=UTF8&m=A2LBKNDJ2KZUGQ&n=44360031&mcb=core

Excellent condition, like new, only used a few times.
Original price: 85 Euros. Asking price: 40 Euros

Call Susie Fisher on 664796719 or email susiecfisher@hotmail.com

Please click to ENLARGE

To get back to the Cronica, click the back arrow key on the top left hand side of your screen

Apartment needed in August...

Looking for short term rental of apartment in Valencia for 5 days in August (21-26. August), as I am having some family coming down, and cannot house them myself.
Need to sleep 4-5 people.
If you think you may be interested, please call me.
Dorte Malene Marino 653 908 286

Click to enlarge

To get back to the blog, click the arrow on the top left of your screen

BIO PARK FINALLY OPEN!

From Valencia Life...

BIOPARK IN VALENCIA
Yesterday Francisco Camps, the President of the Valencian Community, and Valencia Mayoress Rita Barbera opened the new biopark of Valencia in which as few barriers as possible are erected between the public and the animals. The Biopark, which is in the Viveros Gardens, currently has some 250 different species of animals including lions, rhinoceros, zebra and gorilla that form the Africa section that will soon be completed with a section from America and Asia, and finally about a thousand different species will be inside the park. The new Biopark is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm in winter and from 10 am to 9 pm in summer

Activities for the Chidren!!!

Dear all,

Consorcio Valencia 2007 has the pleasure to invite you to the program of activities for kids to be held at the Port America’s Cup. It is scheduled for March and April at weekends. There will lots of fun for kids of all ages: a special area for toddlers (0-3 years); workshops; story-telling, makeup for kids, balloon twisting, remote control boats…

Besides, once a month we will be having bouncing castles (on March 9th and April 6th) and a scooter circuit for kids (on 23 th March and 20th April). The first two weekends there will be a great, sweet ,“fallera” surprise for kids¡.

Where: Port America ’s Cup (Marina Real Juan Carlos I) near the kid’s playground.
Date: Every Saturday and Sunday in March and April, starting on March 1st.
Time: From 11 am to 2 pm.

We will be more than delighted to welcome all the America ’s Cup family¡¡. No confirmation is required.

Looking forward to seeing all you there¡¡

Kind regards,

Esther
One Stop Shop
Consorcio Valencia 2007


Estimados todos:

Consorcio Valencia 2007 tiene el placer de invitaros al programa de actividades infantiles para todos los niños de Valencia, que tendrá lugar en la Marina Real Juan Carlos I(Port America’s Cup) Las actividades están programadas para los fines de semana de los meses de marzo y abril. Habrá diversión para niños de todas las edades: ludoteca infantil (0-3 años);barcos de radiocontrol; cuentacuentos, talleres, globoflexia; maquillaje….

Además, una vez al mes tendremos hinchables (9 de marzo y 6 de de abril) y un circuito vial con patinete (23 de marzo y 20 de abril).Los dos primeros fines de semana habrá, además, una sorpresa muy dulce y fallera para los niños.

Dónde: Port America’s Cup (Marina Real Juan Carlos I) cerca del área de juegos infantil.
Cuándo: Sábados y domingos del mes de marzo y abril. El primer día es el sábado 1 de marzo.
Hora. De 11 a 14 horas

¡Estaremos encantados de recibir a toda la familia America ’s Cup! No se necesita confirmación.

Esperamos veros a todos allí.

Un saludo.

Esther Pérez
One Stop Shop

FALLAS 2008

http://www.valencia-cityguide.com/tourist-information/leisure/festivals/the-fallas.html

I was going to write a bit about Fallas for those of you not familiar with it BUT of course there is a much easier way - look it up on the internet! Above is a great link that has the entire programme and info.

FALLAS - love it or hate it. I personally love it (but not the fireworks going off at 6 in the morning etc). This would have been my 4th one if I was going to be here. Besides the 3 weeks of BOOM, there is so much more to look at and get involved in.

Just ask those around you and they will tell you what to do and what to see. You won't get bored! If you live at the 3 torres, Torre 1 has the best view of the fireworks in the park.

Word of warning - Just watch your bags and wallets - unfortunately, it is the time for a far bit of theiving as the close contact is unavoidable!

Have Fun!

Bridget
(picture I took above is of Fallas 2007)

Tuesday Power Walks

Hola all motivated people!

A reminder that POWER WALKING is on Tuesdays at 3.05pm departing in the Park opposite the Three Towers Apartments. I am not going to be here for the month of March, but a few of the PW girls are going to have turns at leading it for me.

If you haven't been yet, it is an easy way to add a bit of action to your day, you get to meet people and get fitter. It is normally around 1 hour and finish with a drink at the cafe.

I will see you in April!!!

Cheers
Bridget

Childless Friday Lunches!

Hi everyone!

If you would like to come, please email Danelle at sirfukuandladydanelle@hotmail.com
or mobile - 661 790 265
Danelle is going to organise these for me for the month as I have to go to NZ.
When you contact her, she will let you know when and where and rough cost of the lunch (always menu del dia).
Three Dates to contact the Lovely Lady are...
This Friday - 29th of February
14th of March
28th of March
Please conact her by Thursday afternoon (day before), so she can make the booking!

Cheers
Bridget

Holiday Apartment Rental in Cullera

'Luxury Holiday Apartment Rental in Cullera,

35 minutes south of Valencia city.

Two & three bedroom brand new riverside apartments,

all with river & mountain views,

1 minute in the car from 15km of sandy 'Blue Flag' beaches.

10% holiday apartment discount for Valencia Cronica readers.

We also have apartments for medium and long term rental

- please enquire through the website: http://www.milenioapartments.es/

Full Time Nanny Required

We are looking for a full-time nanny. Ideally we are looking for:

-Spanish or Castellano speaking lady (no age requirement but must have enough energy!)

-Does not need to speak English (My husband speaks basic Spanish and I'll be learning)

-40 hours per week. 4 days/week (8am-6pm).

- We are looking for someone who can be flexible with work days.

- We would need the person to be flexible and able to vary the hours. Occassionally from Mon – Thurs or Mon- Wed and Saturday

-Twin girls age 2 years old (born 16.11.06) will be main priority of the au pair.

- I am pregnant and having the baby in April. I will look after the baby for day -to - day but occassionally we might want the au pair to look after the baby as well.

- Ideally with driving license and car. We will be living just outside Betera in Torrrent Conill.

Please contact us by e-mail or telephone with any questions you might have.
Mobile: 607736415
e-mail: ellie@futurefibres.com

Got nothing to do?

Wow, it rained today! It seems like it has been months since that has happened. And it actually felt like Winter for once, well almost!

That didn't stop us for Power Walking today. As soon as we started, the big black clouds opened up and didn't stop until we were all back home soaking wet! It was fun for a change and we still worked hard.

I am doing another POWER WALK on Friday as an extra. I was meant to organise an Activity Challenge but I haven't had the time to suss it out. So, met at 3pm in the Park opposite the 3 torres ready to head off at about 3.05. Remember to bring a towel (for extra exercises and stretches), drink bottle, a couple or euros for a drink at the end, but most of all, a positive and motivated attitude! Don't forget your friend!
Every Tuesday at 3pm
Extra this Friday and next Friday

Also, don't forget to come to Starbucks on Gran Via Marques del Turia between 12.30 and 2.30 every Wednesay. Great way to meet more people and talk about everything BUT the America's Cup (boring and stressful!)

Playgroup from 3pm on Thursdays, in the park opposite the white tower. I am happy to change the location if anyone has a better place. It isn't the best for the smaller ones to crawl around as it seems to be wet there lately.

Look forward to catching up!
Bridget

Formula 1 in Valencia

click picture to enlarge

Here is a wee look at what is happening at the America's Cup area. It is basically construction everywhere - just like when they were getting the area ready for the America's Cup. Now, it is full on getting ready for the Formula 1.


The photo here is in front of the Bases on the north side, where part of the race track is. All the fences are now back up as it is business for BMW Oracle Racing (check out www.valenciasailing.blogspot.com for more).

Bridget

12th IAAF Indoor Championship - Athletics

Here is the Website for the upcoming Athletics Competition held in Valencia (March 7 - 9). It is actually a really good website to look at. They have a nice video clip of Valencia - nice one for your friends and family to look at.

http://www.rfea.es/competi/2008valencia/eng/eng_index.htm

Thanks Leslie E for sending that in

Any one keen to do a house swap...

We are looking for holiday accommodation for 1 week
To rent or as house swap
(from approximately 6- 13 April)

Ideal zones would be either Artes y Ciencias or Eixample (Canovas) and we would really like some patio/ balcony area as we have two girls (3 and 6 years old).

If you would like to house swap then we have a beautiful Tuscan Farmhouse with incredible views and acres of land that sleeps up to 16 people. It’s ideally located for Pisa (25 minutes from Pisa airport), Florence, Luca, Volterra, San Gimignano.
The farmhouse could be available for a week in March or April.
Please see the link for more information: http://www.villa-in-tuscany.co.uk/

Please feel free to call or e-mail me directly.
Mobile: 60757768
E-mail: judyfox@ntlworld.com

Thanks
Judy Fox

Tennis Aerobics - (fast pace tennis clinic)

Hit lots of balls - improve your tennis, your fitness, and footwork! and catch up with other players.
6 players per coach
Time: 10am (duration 1 and 1/2 hours)
Venue: Club Hendaya, L'Eliana (exit 15 - L'Eliana exit - off CV 35)
Cost: 10E per session or 50E for 6 sessions
Everyone welcome - caters for all level of players - just come, not just AC people
Afterwards tea and coffee and biscuits
Contact coach - Carlos 699 846 974

More detailed directions -
Get off at salida 15 CV 35, cross the motorway, shift into left lane on the roundabout, (don't take the direction L'Eliana, turn right at the next corner with the 2 yellow pipes - the next exit off the round about is back to Valencia - don't go there)
Then turn first right - the road is very rough there - its Spain! -- then at the 2 stop signs turn left, at the next stop sign turn left - you will be on Ave Bonavista - follow this road till you have to turn right and the polideportivo is on your left.

Jan Shearer

Car for Sale

CARACTERÍSTICAS DEL VEHÍCULO


VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI 2.0 Inyección

COLOR: Azul marino

MATRÍCULA: V-3437-EV

AÑO 1994 (175.000km)

ITV

PRECIO: 2.000€

EMAIL: ctrullenque@yahoo.es

Yoga

CLICK TO ENLARGE

When you have finished looking at the ad,

click the arrow on the top left of your screen to return to the website

HANDYMAN

English and Spanish speaking handyman serving the America's Cup syndicates and families at realistic rates.

Services include
• Locksmith
• Home appliance repairs
• Window shutters
• Plumbing and heating
• Removals
• Electrics
• Furniture assembly and repair
• Painting
• Tiling
• Air conditioning
• And much more…

Phone Brett 622 128 632

Pram for Sale

Pram to sell:
Phil&Teds Sport double (grey, only used for 6 months)
with -Cocoon- buggy bunny - covers (rain and UV sunprotection) - handbag/belt
(see www.philandteds.com)
Esther 69 211 59 32 (Mobile)

Apartment for Rent

I have a beautiful apartment to rent in Valencia's port. 2 bedrooms, a big balconies (you can see the water sea of the port) tall roof, with all furnitures, and full equip, air condition, central heating, TV, DVD, microwaves.It's only 100 metres to the port and a 50 metres to the tranvia-metro station.The rent is 790 euros monthly. If you are interested, please contact me at pepevalhot@hotmail.com or 636144503

Cocker Spaniel Puppies

Hola chic@s

Quería ver si podías ayudar en buscar adopción para unos cachorritos de cocker.

La madre tuvo 11 pero dos se murieron.

Han logrado colocar a tres pero todavia quedan 6.

Tienen una semana y el dueño va a esperar un poco mas, pero si no los adoptan tendrá que sacrificarlos en breve.

Son negros y mandan una foto para que los veáis.

El teléfono de contacto es Antonio Tlf: 615 97 27 46

Vivo en Madrid.

Muchísimas gracias

Hi chicos y chicas!
I hope that you can help me to find somebody to adopt some Cocker Spaniel puppies.

The mother had 11 but two of them died. 3 found a new home already but there are still 6 left. They have one week and the owner will wait a bit longer but if nobody can take them they will have to be killed soon.
They are black and I send a picture so you can see them.
Please contact Antonio telphone 615 97 27 46 in Madrid.
Thank you so much.

New Restaurant opening...

Hosteria del Vizio

Te invitamos a nuestra fiesta de carnaval


Estimado Amigo

Después de la XXXII edicion de la America’s Cup parte de nosotros hemos decidido quedarnos en Valencia. Nos ha gustado tanto la ciudad que hemos abierto un restaurante italiano. Un auténtico restaurante italiano. Ahora, lejos de la competicion y la presion del trabajo queremos compartir contigo una noche divertida, para que conozcas la “Hosteria El Vizio” . Hemos pensado en una fiesta de carnaval en el mes de Febrero con comida italiana, verdadera., toda la que tu quieras. Por que en Italia no solo comemos pizza.
Me complace invitarte a la cena de carnaval el sábado 9 de febrero a las 9 de la noche y compartir contigo y tu acompañante esta noche.

Hosteria El Vizio
Strada Eugenia Vinyes 105
Giorno, il 9 di febbraio
Dalle ore 21:00

Sheree Curtis
697 792 722


Te ruego me confirmes tu asistencia
Por supuesto, ropa informal.

In English -
A new Italian Restaurant is opening on the 9th of Feb at 9pm, down in front of Las Arenas Hotel by the beach. It will be great if you can come to the inauguration! I worked for Luna Rossa in the 32nd America's Cup but instead of waiting for a new job to pop up, I opened a Restaurant!

Friday Lunch

Hi everyone

This coming Friday is the 10 euro Lunch. I am waiting to hear back from a restaurant on the menu, but in the mean time, if you are keen to come, please email me. It will be again in the Aveinda de Francia area. I will let you know more details by Wednesday.
valenciacronica@gmail.com

And also send me an email if you are going to join me on Tuesday for the Power Walk at 3pm.

Have a great week.

Bridget

Power Walk - Next one on Friday!

If you have been meaning to join me for the Power Walk in the Park on Tuesday's, I will be doing one this Friday!

So far we have had two walks and have had a great group of ladies join in.

Flick me an email if you do intend to come so I have an idea who to wait for. We meet at 3pm in the park opposite the 3 towers and leave around 3.05pm.

Remember it is every Tuesday (except the 19th of Feb - I will be having a wee holiday) and the first Friday of every month. Because there are 5 Friday's in Feb, there will be another extra one on the 22nd Feb. The only money you have to dish out is if you stop for a coffee after it. So not only is it pretty much free, but great for your health and another way to meet more people!

Bridget

English Babysitter

5 years experience from birth to early teenage years.
I have been a regular babysitter for families in England and I have worked for a number of Americas cup families since July 2007.
Available for odd days, evenings or for long term more regular work, willing and trusted for trips out and about.
References available.

For a personal recommendation please call or E-mail
Meagan Hutchinson on - 696 787 458 or meagan@meaganandmarcus.com

For further references please contact me 680 707 780 0r katieboges@yahoo.co.uk

I look forward to hearing from you
Katie Bogan

Bike Parts and Bike Rally

OLD BIKES AND BIKE PARTS

I was looking for something to do with some bike parts that we've got (some old training wheels, and an old bike seat), and found that there is a volunteer group that has organised a workshop for children of all ages of the poorer areas of Valencia (Barrio La Coma), to teach them to build their own bikes out of some old pieces and bikes that some people donate, so they would very much appreciate if people want to donate.

They are happy to do pick-ups, so I think is a very good way of recycling our old bikes and parts!

If somebody wants to contact them, the lady in charge is Rosario, and her mobile is 678 454 692. I am not sure that she speaks English, but if you get stuck, don't hesitate to contact me (Silvana) on my mobile 663 874 429.

BIKE RALLY

Also this coming Friday (Feb 1st) is the monthly Masa Critica Valencia, a bike rally that takes place in the Old Town, to raise awareness on the condition of the bike lanes, car-drivers' behaviour against push bikers and pedestrians, environmental issues, and a good way to have the Colon Street all for us bike riders and meet very nice people from outside the AC. It is very safe, the Police is there to help at all times, and we will meet at 7.30 pm at Plaza de la Virgen. Join us, it will be FUN!!!

Silvana Sanchez

Apartment for Rent

I have an apartment to rent in Portsaplaya. It is an attic, 3 bedrooms, garage, cellar and air conditions, Views are beautiful. Two sailors of piu 39 team were there for two years and I am interest on renting the attic for several months or years.

The rent is 850 euros monthly.

If you are interested, please contact me at mperaltrillo@yahoo.es or 653 662 349

Thank you very much, María Peralt

Do you need a Nanny in July?

I have been studying Spanish for 5 years and am currently enrolled in my high school's honors program. I am very interested in Spanish and am considering pursuing it as a major in college. To be able to spend some of my summer in Spain, speaking English or Spanish, especially around those who are so involved in sailing at its highest level, would be absolutely amazing. I will be seventeen this summer and have lots of babysitting experience, so I would love stay with a family and work as an au pair taking care of children or doing any other necessary jobs.

I am hoping to participate in a few regattas at the end of June, but I will be available after the 4th of July for the rest of the month. Thank you so much for helping me explore this potential opportunity.

Emily Gowell em.gowell@gmail.com

From www.valencialife.com

NEW OPENING TIMES
Shops in the Valencian Community will now be able to, open their doors this year on the following holidays: March 20; July 6; November 1; December 6, 14 and 21 and January 4 and 11 2009. These are eight more openings than usual, and the trades unions have presented their virulent opposition to these new proposals
Sent in from Leslie

For Sale - Baby Stuff

For Sale! Baby stuff
And some free stuff at the end - (Email Bridget if you want to see all the photos!)

Changing Table and bath – this is a free standing changing table with a plastic bath underneath. The table itself is foam covered in blue checked plastic. 15 euros

Bed guard – this is a cool little item that slides under the existing top mattress of any bed and has a little mesh guard that keep the wee one from falling out in the night . Folds down for easy storage– 15 euros.

Awesome Decathalon Bike Seat – This one fits the Decathalon bike rack. Detaches in second so you don’t need to always have a child seat attached to your bike. You will need to purchase the rack but that is easy! – 20 euros

Evenflo Car Seat – for children 20 to 40 pounds. Very secure, easy strap adjustment from a knob on the side. And there is a knob on BOTH sides so it doesn’t matter which side of the car the seat is on – you can always adjust the straps – nice for the coat on in the AM size and then coat off in the PM. Reclines, has all 5 point strap system and meets all the US car seat requirements as of 2005. (I don’t know if they have changed) – 30 euros

Baby Jogger – Great for the cobble stone because of the big wheels and smooth ride. It is a little old but works just fine. 20 euros

Kelty framed Child Carrier Backpack – these cost about 125 USD new. This one has been on many a hike but is still going strong. Pockets for storage and just the right number of straps to keep the child in there. – 30 euros

Infant Life Vest - it is safe. It works. They hate it but you have to do it – 10 euros

PortaCrib – This is a portable crib that we have carried all over the world. Nathaniel slept in it until he moved into the child’s bed (as seen above) I don’t have a photo but it is basic and well worn but it works. – 15 euros

Potty training seat – blue plastic – well you know… free!

Chlid’s bed – just right for 2-4 years. No mattress – Free!

Bike Seat – Not the best but not the worst. I used this one as a back up ride for my 4 yr old when she got tired. Perfect for a 1-2 year old. Fits any bike and no need for a rack. Free!

Phone Libby
m. +34 690 224 708

Car still for Sale

Price dropped to 19.000 and we have a friend who can assist with the changing of Registration.

Volkswagen Touran (from Feb. 2006)
FOR SALE· 2,0 TDI DSG automatic·
140 CV· Highline· Titanium gray· 7 seats·
DVD and 3 cordless headsets·
45.000 km
20.500 Euro
More information contact:stenp@hotmail.com or Sten Mohr: +45 617 113 59

To see the photo, click on For Sale label and the previous ad will come up

Teacher available for private classes

I am a British trained Primary teacher and am available for private classes at times to suit. I have taught every year from Year 1 through to Year 6, both in the UK and for the past 3 years in a British school in Spain. I am happy to assist any child within these age groups with a specific area of the curriculum - from mental maths to reading or writing - or to provide more generalised support with school work. I have plenty of resources, lots of ideas and experience and am happy to teach either on a one to one basis or small groups either at my home or yours. Feel free to drop me an email if you are interested and we can discuss options.

Contact: lucyjanemoore@hotmail.com

Nothing to do???

Righto, I am sure everyone is sick and tired of the America’s Cup Saga, and that is saying it politely! I for one have had an absolute gut full and now on the receiving end of just how much current game can affect people’s lives.

BUT, it is also making me realise how great life was for the past 3 years, with all the activities and get togethers I and others organised to keep us all busy, positive and sane! So, now the time has come to get back into it, get motivated, meet more people, have fun, get fit or fitter and generally keep our minds and attitude POSITIVE!

So here is what I have come up with and it would be great if everyone joined in with at least one or all get togethers each week. And please bring anyone along not involved in the cup. Always good to meet people outside of the cup.

First up on Tuesday at 3pm – I will take us on a Power Walk in the park for 1 hour finishing with a coffee at the park cafe by the Opera House. We will start walking at 3.05pm. Departing from the park opposite the Three Towers/Opera House, heading in the direction of old town, we will walk our buns off and every 10 minutes stop to do some exercises – Abs included (bring a towel). Anyone can come – babies/toddlers in buggies welcome, but if you have to stop – you have to run to catch up!
If you are keen to do more, then I will also do this on the first Friday of each month, this time finishing with a well earned Beer.

Wednesday from 12.30pm – 2.30pm, Coffee at Starbucks Gran Marques del Turia, (because it is smoke free and big enough for lots of people). Main objective to catch up and a chance to meet more people! After a couple of months, we can swap to another café.

Thursday 3 – 5pm. Playgroup at the park. The weather is great so let’s get the kids out in the ‘fresh air’ and head to the playground in the park opposite the white tower. I will also start a new contact list so we can get another group going like what Juliet did for the 32nd AC. If you don’t have kids and have nothing else to do, come along anyway!

Friday 2 – 5. Childless Lunch! And only 10 euros (give or take a few and it depends how many wines the doctor prescribes). Great chance to unwind from the busy week, ha ha. Depending on interest, I will pick the location during the week. If you have your favourite place, let me know! I will organise this on the second and last Friday of each month.

Girls’ night out. I will now organise this once a month for now starting in February.

I really want to start up another competition like the AC Family Interteam Challenge but this time it won’t be AC team against AC team. We will make mixed teams on the day and go from there. I will need to have names of who is keen so depending what the activity is, I can book what ever I need to. Vicky MacFeidth is going to help me with the organising. We will aim to do this on the third Friday of each month in the afternoon. Will keep you posted!

Pregnant Ladies – When I was pregnant with Jack, I got some other mums-to-be together so we could catch up once a week and go through the big event together. It was a great way to share advice and also know that other people are going through the same thing as you.

If anyone out there is pregnant and want to become part of a group, let me know and I will help form a group for you. Let me know what time and days suit.

I can also get a few of my friends together who have had babies in Valencia and we can share our experience with you.

I personally think having a group of people you can meet with during this time is so important and even more so when we are so far away from our family and support.

So there you have it. Starting with the walk on Tuesday, flick me an email if you intend to come and also for the lunch on Friday. The Coffee at Starbucks and Playgroup on Thursday, just turn up.

Summary...

Tuesday 3pm - Power Walk

Wednesday 12.30 - Cofffee Catch Up

Thursday 3pm - Playgroup

Friday 2pm - Childless lunch or Power Walk or AC Family Challenge

Girls Night Out - once a month starting in Feb

Preggie Group - contact me and no, I am not pregnant!

See you soon!
Bridget

For Sale

VESPA ET2 50cc.
Silver, 2006, 1400km
Excellent condition!!
800 euros

Contact: Michele Ivaldi
34 637 169 172
39 348 225 6725
ivaldi.mic@gmail.com

Smoke Free Cafes in Valencia

Being a non smoker, there is nothing worse than popping into a cafe in the morning, just showered, in fresh clothes and coming out smelling like you have been out in the pub all night!

But, thank goodness there are a couple of Smoke Free Cafes close to home. I thought I would open this one up so everyone can share their favourite Smoke Free Cafe.

Notredame - Salamanca 40
Chocolate - Salamanca 25(?)
Starbucks - Gran Via Marques del Turia
Starbucks - San Vincente Matir

Please, if anyone knows of others, please click on the Reader Comments Part and show your knowledge.

I was very surprised that on my holiday in Austria and Switzerland, that the smoking is still allowed in all (well almost all) public areas. Even in Hotels which was a real pain, especially when having breakfast and everyones smoke was wofting in.

Bridget

Bike Rides and Charity

I was surfing the net for a little while, and since a lot of us Cronica readers ride bikes around Valencia, I would love to share this web-page: www.valenciaenbici.net

They have a map for the bike path all around Valencia that you can print out, tips for parking your bike and not getting it stolen, somewhere to post your stolen bike, somewhere to post if your bike it's been recovered, and much more. They also organise bike trips to El Saler every third Sunday of the month, they meet at 10.30 on the Fountain in front of the Palau De La Musica, and they do this to promote bikeriding as a means of transport (this coming Sunday!!). There is also a monthly "bike-picket" every first Friday of the month, to make motorists aware that bikers have as much rights on the road as the petrol-heads.

On other note, one of the designer at Oracle has organised a fundraising for an Argentinian charity called "Comedores Infantiles". This Comedores are places where the poor kids go to get their meals after school, and it's been going on for a while now. If you feel like giving to the less fortunate this Holidays, there is an Annual Appeal up until Dec. 14th (Sorry Silvana sent this to me while I was on holiday). Log on here www.help-for-kids.blogspot.com.

Thanks a lot!!!
Silvana Sanchez

For Sale

Hamax Bike seat, OK condition for sale.
€20
For further questions please ring:
Eduardo,663 874 430
Silvana, 663 874 429

Silla de Niño para bicicleta Hamax en venta. En Buen estado,
€20
Por favor llamar a:
Eduardo,663 874 430
Silvana, 663 874 429

Eco Park

Valencia now has its own Eco Park, that is sited between the Vara de Quart Industrial Estate and the V-30. Open every day, it has special sections for depositing paper, cardboard, glass, furniture and other recyclable rubbish. There is also a section for old electrical appliances, used batteries, old mobile phones and even used or out-of-date X-rays. Inaugurated yesterday by Valencia Mayoress Rita Barbera, the Eco Park is set in a five thousand square metre area and is open Mondays to Saturdays between 9 am and 9 pm and on Sundays from 1 am to 3 pm

Thanks Vicky MacFeidh for sending that in

BABYSITTERS

I have a few fantastic babysitters contact me saying they are available for work, mostly any time of the day. Here are their details...

Katie Bogan 680 707 780. Has worked for a few AC Families over the last 6 months or so, so she has good references available. Away in England for a couple of weeks now but will be ready at the start of February for any nannying work

Alena 617 901 860. Is available around her University hours. I used Alena a lot for Jack (now in Daycare) and she was great.

Kirsty 697 704 548. Available for any work. I have used Kirsty also and she is great too.

Isabel 645 652 830. (One Stop Shop chica) Isabel is on the hunt for a new job but is available for babysitting. Again, I have used her and another great sitter to add to the list.

One Stop Shop

Esther Pérez would like you to know that One Stop Shop is still operational but the staff has unfortunately been downscaled. Esther is now the person to contact for all the America's Cup Families.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people at One Stop Shop for doing such a great job. Monica (who left early this year), Esther and Isabel were great support for me with the Cronica and it was great working along side them. Unfortunately Isabel lost her job but hopefully she will land a job in the America's Cup somewhere as she has a wealth of knowledge that will be very useful for a team! All the best Isabel. Esther, thank you again for all your work. Bridget

Muelle de la Aduana, s/n 46024 Valencia Spain
Tf: + 34 963 46 2007 Fx: + 34 963 40 7577
www.valenciaoss.com

Apartment for Rent

Hi-
I'm leaving a very nice apartment in Avenida de Francia 55.
With furniture, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen and dining room, 9th floor, sunny side, air conditioning, swimming pool and security.
The owner is a very nice person and the price is 1000 Euro/month.
If you are interested, please, contact me at
ch_coggiola@yahoo.it or +34 618 421995
Photos available.

Feel Good in 2008

Welcome to our new Centro de Yoga, Pilates y Acupuntura. The centre offers you a complete range of preventative and restorative health care: yoga and Pilates classes, Qi Kung Stretch, belly dancing classes, acupuncture and massages. We can help you choose a class or therapy that most suits your temperament and your needs. Our teachers and therapists are qualified and experienced, and are available for a chat about their area of specialization.

Visit our website to find detailed information about the classes and treatments we offer, as well as timetables and prices.

New groups are formed in response to demand. There is no need to be discouraged if you cannot find a class at a time that suits you, just contact us and let us know what would work best for you!

Contact us to sign up for a class, to make an appointment or if you have any questions. If you want to have a look at our centre, pop in for a visit. You can try a class for free and enjoy a complementary cup of tea (jasmine, red, green or herbal).
You can find us at:
Centro de Yoga, Pilates y AcupunturaAv. de Francia, 17, escalera B, puerta 2, 46023 Valencia (on the entryphone, press 202 and the bell button)
Call Olga Fedina at the Centro on 963 319 874 or 609 429 678

www.yogacentrovalencia.com

e-mail: info@yogacentrovalencia.com

Nursery Nurse Available

Professional Qualified English NNEB (National Nursery Education Board) Nanny.
Over 6 years of experience caring for children including positions as a Nanny (4mths-7 yr olds), Playschool Teacher (2-3 yr olds), ESL Teacher (2 - 15 yr olds), Special Needs Nanny and Nursery Nurse (2 -7 yr olds).
I have worked with Children who have visual impairment, Autism, mental and physical difficulties and cerebral palsy. (Occupational and physiotherapy).
I’ve also spent the last year running a playschool for America’s cup children.
I’ve just recently had a baby in September and am now looking to take care of one other child at my home, part-time or full-time.
Excellent references available.

Contact: Susie fisher on 664796719
susiecfisher@hotmail.com