#conditional perfect Spanish examples

[mylanguageclasses]

Tiempo Condicional Compuesto: Conditional Perfect Tense in Spanish

Introduction The Conditional Perfect Tense (Tiempo Condicional Compuesto) in Spanish is an essential grammatical structure used to express hypothetical past actions, regrets, missed opportunities, and probabilities about past events. It plays a crucial role in advanced Spanish conversations and writing. This tense is particularly useful when narrating past scenarios where something could have…

[linkspooky]

overhaul with his quirk likely never had to face consequences if he accidentally injured one of his subordinates he could just heal them

Hello, kiddos.

This is the perfect time to explain the new term I just coined called: Narrative Gaslighting.

Narrative Gaslighting is not:

Breaking Show Don't Tell: A story failing to properly demonstrate in story something, usually a narrator tells you about a character, or setting. For example: Telling us Endeavor is on a journey of atonement, but never having him take any action in story to show this.

Retcons: Short for retroactive continuity, an ongoing story, a new story detail revising something in the past often changing or imposing a different interpretation of previous described events. For example, in doctor who the reason why Wilf wasn't at Donna's wedding in "The Runaway Bride" is because he apparently had the Spanish flu. Retcons aren't necessarily bad, because sometimes you get cool new ideas, like Wilfred objectively the best doctor who character.

Plot Holes: An inconsistency in the narrative. These are sloppy storytelling but they're not usually done onpurpose.

An Unreliable Narrator: The classic example of this is the Agatha Christie novel "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd" where the narrator / perspective character is the murderer, and hides his role in the murders the whole novel until hercule poirot exposes him. This is a character in the story deliberately misleading the audience, either to conceal a twist, or sometimes unreliable narrator adds to characterization, like a character says something untrue and you're supposed to go "no that's wrong" and it turns out the character is lying to themselves.

Narrative Gaslighting is when a narrative deliberately tries to mislead you, straight up lies, or just insists that that did not happen totally happened guys. Much like real gaslighting it makes you question what you just read. The intent is to just manipulate you into read the story way the author wants you to instead of what's written.

The ask that anonymous sent to me is an example of narrative gaslighting because it's insisting upon something that's blatantly untrue. Overhaul faced consequences, he lost both of his arms and could no longer use his quirk, he was jailed and kept in isolation so long he was reduced to a state where he couldn't do much more than beg for someone to help restore his father figure from his coma. The main character also seeing Overhaul in such a desperate state, instead of agreeing to help wake up Pops who was in a coma (and innocent of the whole affair with Eri mind you, he told Overhaul to stop) instead put a condition that Overhaul is only worthy of human sympathy if he apologizes to Eri first.

Another example of Narrative Gaslighting is the narrative insisting that Deku is someone who "is possessed by a drive to save others that eclipses all common understanding" because his action of not wanting to save Overhaul directly contradicts this, but Horikoshi still wants us to believe Deku is an all-loving hero who's the embodiment of "Heroes who Saves" so he just straight up lies to manipulate us into seeing Deku the way the narrative wants us to, even if it doesn't align with his actions at all.

Here is another example of narrative gaslighting, where a story just insists upon events that are patently untrue to the point where it makes you question what you just read.

No he didn't. No he did not. You're lying. You're a liar.

[spanishskulduggery]

con respecto a situaciones hipotéticas, ¿cuál es la diferencia entre la condicional y el imperfecto del subjuntivo?

Por ejemplo, ¿hay una diferencia en el significado de las siguientes frases?:

— Si las ballenas hablasen, ¿qué nos dirían?

— Si las ballenas podrían hablar, ¿qué nos dirían?

I have to explain this in English because my Spanish isn't good enough to explain just how confusing this topic is, even for Spanish-speakers

First, hablasen is more typically used in Spain; makes perfect sentence, Latin America might use si las ballenas hablaran - way too much history behind that to explain it properly without going on a full tangent

Okay, but when it comes to imperfect subjunctive and conditional, know that Spanish-speakers have the exact same problem as English in that sometimes they use the same words for different tenses

What I mean is, English says "if I were rich" [imperfect subjunctive] but will also say "if I was rich" where "was" is more specifically past tense but gets used everywhere enough to make you wonder what tense you're using

...

According to formal Spanish grammar, Spanish-speakers will typically use imperfect subjunctive for the "if" statement, and the "then" statement is conditional

Which means it really should be hablasen/hablaran and then dirían

BUT sometimes people WILL use the conditional for both sides of it

This is especially true if you're seeing "should have"... because it's almost always debería in conditional; in general "coulda, woulda, shoulda" is all conditional in Spanish

...

The way I try to rationalize it to people is that imperfect subjunctive is a "contrary to fact" statement in hypotheticals. Something that isn't true but IF IT WERE TRUE [imperfect subjunctive], then what WOULD HAPPEN [conditional]

The more doubtful or unrealistic the statement is, the more imperfect subjunctive makes sense

That's why you'll almost always see como si fuera "as if it were", or lo que fuera "whatever it was"

Subjunctive introduces a below 50% chance of doubt pretty much; if it's more than 50% then it's indicative mood, in this case the conditional tense - that's a really broad statement and I can't say it's always the case, but that's how I try to tell people to think of it

...

And of course any subjunctive phrases in the past will be using imperfect subjunctive just because that's what it is

In hypothetical situations, imperfect subjunctive feels like a true unlikely scenario, while conditional usually feels like a possible plan for the future

si pudiera hablar contigo "if I were able to speak with you" sounds so unlikely that it comes off deferential

si podría hablar contigo "if I could speak with you" feels like a polite request

That's how it works usually (outside of "should've" and "would've" and "could've" when talking about things that happened in the past)

.......

Anyway, all of that to say, both of those examples are technically possible because some people avoid imperfect subjunctive altogether because it is a pain

But - avoiding historical stuff and other rules and exceptions - I would go with si las ballenas hablasen/hablaran personally

[elmaestrostan]

https://theathletic.com/5469108/2024/05/07/premier-league-managers-touchline-fashion/?source=user_shared_article What are Premier League managers wearing on the touchline?

@doublefrogs @laisy @howeaythelads

Article text under the cut!

“Look smart, play smart”, as the saying goes. Perhaps it is about time we coined the phrase, “Look smart, manage smart” — and the meaning of “smart” is very much in the eye of the beholder.

In his first full season in charge — and despite two separate points deductions — Sean Dyche has steered Everton clear of relegation danger in the Premier League.

And what does Dyche credit as his secret weapon? Ditching wearing a traditional suit and tie for a club tracksuit, of course.

We’re not here to debate whether football managers donning classy business suits or comfortable matching sets of sportswear is superior. Instead, this feels like the perfect time to dive into what the Premier League’s movers and shakers are wearing on the touchline.

Want to imitate the Dyche look? (He’s cool enough to appear in music videos, remember.) The Athletic’s writers have got you covered.

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal

On matchdays, Arteta tends to dress in monotone — shades of black and grey. He frequently sports black shoes, grey trousers and one from a variety of black jackets. Black conveys seriousness and credibility — perfect for a manager striving to achieve his first Premier League title.

“At a high-performance level, you have to be consistent, things are demanding, you want to be detailed and precise,” Arteta told The Telegraph last year. “But at the same time, you need to leave some room for creativity.”

In those nervous moments of stoppage time, he occasionally glances down at a Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II. The watch dates from 2007 — the year Arteta was voted Everton’s player of the year after leading them to European football.

Perhaps Arteta should consider introducing some camouflage to his match attire: it might enable him to evade referees when escaping out of his technical area.

Unai Emery, Aston Villa

Suave, sophisticated and all about the football. Emery’s fashion is largely dictated by the environment and the conditions he goes to battle in. At Turf Moor, for example, he broke out the rarely worn club tracksuit. When facing the managers he considers to be the best in the world, he wears sharp polished shoes and a long coat.

After an international break or in the summer, he has olive skin and a fresh new haircut. In the winter, he has a claret scarf, Roberto Mancini-like, tucked into a black puffer jacket and almost always accompanied by slim-fit trousers and a V-neck jumper underneath.

Nothing over the top, but adaptable. Best of all, it reflects him: highly effective in all conditions.

Andoni Iraola, Bournemouth

Iraola has delivered a penchant for those ‘pundit trainers’ — you know, the black shoes with the white rim around them. It forms a part of his smart but casual look, like a trendy university teacher who wears a blazer when walking between classrooms. He wears tracksuits at press conferences but invariably a neat black jumper with a button-up shirt underneath, with the collars tucked over.

He’s also adaptable, like his Spanish countryman Emery — and at Villa Park, Iraola broke out a neat blue jacket, adding a dash of pizzazz to the usual black trousers and pundit trainers. Not quite Scott Parker, but Iraola is learning.

Thomas Frank, Brentford

When Frank stepped up from his role as Dean Smith’s assistant to become Brentford’s head coach in October 2018, he took his promotion seriously.

Frank prowled around on the touchline in suits, crossing his arms when he was frustrated and looking like a teacher — which he used to be back in Denmark.

He quickly ditched the suits for something more comfortable and in the 2021 Championship play-off final, one of the biggest moments in Brentford’s history, he rocked up in a simple long-sleeved green T-shirt and dark trousers.

Nowadays, he jumps between wearing club-branded coats in chilly weather or plain black hoodies — comfort over style. On special occasions, The Athletic has spotted him in a blue-and-white pair of Nike Air Max.

Roberto De Zerbi, Brighton & Hove Albion

De Zerbi’s dress code has been more consistent than his team this season. Rain or shine, warm or cold, Brighton’s head coach brings Italian suave to the touchline with his matchday outfit.

It can be a hooded jacket, a round-neck jumper with the sleeves rolled up, or a T-shirt, depending on the vagaries of the English weather, but the colour scheme is always the same — black with tight-fitting black slacks and white trainers.

Vincent Kompany, Burnley

Kompany claims he pays no thought to his touchline attire in the build-up to games, although it is difficult to truly believe him as he marches to the dugout looking more stylish than most.

First impressions count, so when his side faced Huddersfield Town in his first game in charge back in July 2022, he donned a white shirt, black blazer — and, surprisingly, no cap.

Kompany’s cap has become the new iconic trend in Burnley. There is genuine shock when he appears without it on the touchline or when conducting media duties. The cap is an extension of him.

The classic Kompany look usually involves a variation of a big black coat and his unmissable white shoes. However, in the warmer months, underneath, the T-shirt and blazer combination returns — and this time with a cap on his head. Occasionally, the club’s training gear may be chosen. It’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but the Burnley manager pulls it off.

Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea

No one can accuse Mauricio Pochettino of not trying to find the right outfit to bring about better results at Chelsea.

As far as head coaches and looking smart go, Jose Mourinho set the benchmark for all to follow in his two spells between 2004 and 2007, and 2013 and 2015. It is a bit like his silverware collection while at Stamford Bridge.

Pochettino has gone for the smart, suited look on occasion, although, like his mood after another poor result, the colours are always very dark. There has even been the odd tie attached.

Then, there is the training kit. Perhaps Pochettino dons it so regularly to boost sales in the club shop. Chelsea do have to find all the ways possible to meet profit and sustainability rules, after all.

He appears to quite like a football drill top, which has white down the arms — a rare bit of brightness in his Chelsea life.

Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace

Last year, Crystal Palace appointed Kenny Annan-Jonathan as the first creative director for a Premier League club, but Oliver Glasner probably doesn’t need any fashion tips.

Glasner’s matchday attire is simple and understated. A trademark Canada Goose jacket with a black jumper and black jeans, coupled with a pair of white Nike Air Max Plus (better known as Air Max TNs).

It contrasts markedly with the garish orange-and-black Macron kit that is usually donned at the training ground.

The 49-year-old has attracted attention for his change in playing style at Palace, but his fashion style is also a complete departure from previous manager Roy Hodgson and the iconic shorts worn by former assistant Ray Lewington, no matter the weather.

Sean Dyche, Everton

Dyche has said his mother “isn’t too happy about it”, but the emperor has new clothes and Everton are winning points.

Dyche has always managed in a suit — nothing spectacular, no subterranean polo necks, no avant-garde lapels — but Everton’s form was nose-diving. They were winless in 13 league matches, plummeting back towards the relegation zone, and Dyche’s man-management seemed to be losing its touch.

Reaching deep into his box of motivational tricks (or by listening to Michael Jackson), he began, suitably, with the man in the mirror, switching to a tracksuit for Everton’s must-win showdown with Nottingham Forest on April 21.

“I always thought it was correct to wear a shirt and tie, but I just thought I’d play my part in what I was looking for from my players and staff,” he said post-match.

Since then? Four games, no defeats, and Everton’s first derby win at Goodison Park since 2010. It has been the best week for shell suits since the 1980s.

Will he continue? “I have to,” he said last week, with the air of an ageing steel magnate on dress-down Friday. “I have no choice.”

Marco Silva, Fulham

Fashion seems to be important these days at Fulham. It is ‘on brand’ to look upmarket and stylish.

The club have leant into that affluent stereotype: just look at the sales of cheese boards in the club shop (purchased by fans for away days with more than a hint of irony, obviously). They have also established a partnership with male fashion brand Charles Tyrwhitt, which has a line called the ‘Fulham Look’. Marco Silva is not one of the models for that collection, but managers do need to look the part in south-west London.

His predecessor, Scott Parker, was never one to shy away from eye-catching knitwear. Silva is more low-key. He is a man of darker tones and a sharp and simple look, suggesting a seriousness that reflects his character.

He mainly wears black jumpers, sometimes opting for a turtleneck or a grey option, and often a big black coat in the rain and cold. Smart black shoes go with that, but he can and does switch to trainers and training gear. A smart or stylish watch is a must, though.

Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool

For Klopp’s farewell season at Liverpool, it’s been the trusted casual tracksuit attire we’ve become accustomed to seeing over his nine years in the Premier League.

At the start of the season, for the opener away at Chelsea, it was just a black Liverpool T-shirt with club tracksuit bottoms, a baseball cap and white Adidas trainers, the brand with which he became a brand ambassador in 2020.

As the weather turned, Klopp paired the above combination with a red-and-grey hoodie and had either a tracksuit top or a long raincoat over the top for the winter months. He’s sometimes added a snood for the really chilly games.

He has kept the club Nike baseball cap on all season — with his choice of colour the main fashion change-up.

In an interview with the Guardian in 2020, Klopp explained why he’s always kept it casual. He said: “I was a player and the next day I was the manager (of Mainz).

“In my locker room was the tracksuit of the guy who had the job two days before. It didn’t even fit me. I was just focused on the game. I never thought about how I looked. I know it’s not too cool because we are working in public, but then when I came to Borussia Dortmund, I thought: ‘Maybe I have to change’. I went for a while wearing jeans and a shirt but I just didn’t feel comfortable.”

Rob Edwards, Luton Town

Who remembers the Next catalogue? Every matchday, it looks like Rob Edwards has walked right out of it.

Edwards has the three-quarter zip jumper look locked down. His Luton team are in the relegation zone with two games to go, but he is top of the league when it comes to best-dressed managers.

Are you even a football manager if, when you open your wardrobe, you aren’t suddenly drowning in Sandbanks coats? Edwards certainly enjoys repping the brand, which has Jamie Redknapp as its ambassador, and he does so with style.

Edwards’ recent look for Luton’s away trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers was his best of the season. He wore something similar on a scouting trip to Molineux a few days earlier but rounded off the fit with a pair of clear-frame glasses. When it comes to manager fashion, he is clear.

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City

At the Etihad Stadium, high-end fashion and high-end football collide.

Guardiola has long been one of the most fashionable managers out there and his sensibilities have matured over the years to a point of pristine quiet luxury.

Gone are the ice-white trainers of old, replaced by chunky black derby shoes. Gone, too, is the bulky grey coat-cardigan hybrid, made by Italian brand Herno, that became his calling card a few seasons ago — although Guardiola is still partial to the odd piece of cosy, statement knitwear.

Once keen on Stone Island — although he sometimes removed the brand’s signature arm tag — the Manchester City manager is now more likely to be seen sporting CP Company, which is handy given the Italian luxury brand is set to become his club’s official Champions League clothing partner next season, replacing Dsquared2.

Erik ten Hag, Manchester United

Every Manchester United manager needs a big coat for when it rains at Old Trafford. This season has seen Ten Hag wearing a raincoat from Norwegian brand UBR. He appears to be a fan of UBR’s black Storm jacket, which retails at around €800 (£690; $860).

On matchdays when it isn’t raining, the Dutchman is fond of a black blazer from Spanish clothing company Adolfo Dominguez, pricing at around €300.

Recent weeks have seen him opt for a Paul Smith suit and cardigan combination — the English designer has been a club partner since 2008.

Despite these big names, you would be unlikely to say Ten Hag is a fan of luxury and designer clothing. The more sartorially minded might have spotted his suits had an off-the-rack look and seemed boxy around his lean shoulders. Ten Hag is most at home in a tracksuit but can dress up when the occasion calls for it.

Eddie Howe, Newcastle United

The most important factor in determining Howe’s pre-match attire? Well, that would be whatever Jason ‘Mad Dog’ Tindall, his Rottweiler-esque assistant coach, is wearing.

The Premier League has introduced a technical-area rule in an attempt to break up the perpetual Howe-Tindall pitchside axis, but to little avail.

They remain a tenacious touchline act, apparently attached at the hip and yet wearing suitably discernible outfits. If Tindall has gone for the black with green logo, then Howe will inevitably select the black with yellow logo. If their colour theme is consistent, one will opt for a hoodie and the other for a zippy top. Why they always dress differently, nobody seems to know.

And by outfits, we mean tracksuits, hoodies and training T-shirts. There is never a suit in sight unless there is respect to be paid to a deceased monarch pre-match, in which case it is hastily whipped off in the tunnel before kick-off anyway and the slack pants are restored. Comfort is essential when watching this Newcastle side, after all.

Nuno Espirito Santo, Nottingham Forest

Since his unveiling at the City Ground, Nuno has been unwaveringly consistent in his attire.

Blue Adidas tracksuit bottoms, blue Adidas training top or hoodie and, if it is cold, a blue Adidas puffer jacket. Nuno has, on occasion, gone crazy and gone for white Adidas trainers, but normally (you’ve guessed it) they are also blue.

As a head coach, Nuno is fiercely practical. He does not want to waste time with the peripheral duties of his job. He only wants to work with his players on the training ground. Anything else is a distraction. You suspect his choice of clothes represents function over form.

Chris Wilder, Sheffield United

During his first spell in charge at Bramall Lane, Wilder’s sartorial look was the very antithesis of his team. Where United played an innovative system featuring overlapping centre-backs that left the opposition unable to predict just where the next attack would be coming from, he stuck doggedly to sporting a gilet. Come rain, hail or shine, the ubiquitous garment was there.

So, when his second coming in the United dugout last December saw the 56-year-old sport a rather smart winter coat, suit pants and shoes so shiny the suspicion was he had been up all night polishing them, it didn’t quite feel right.

Thankfully, in time, the gilet returned, along with an array of club-branded sportswear to restore a degree of reassuring familiarity.

Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur

Postecoglou began his time in north London by wearing a casual polo shirt. However, as summer gave way to autumn, he started to wear warmer clothes and settled on a suit and tie combination. Initially, this felt a little unnatural, but everyone has gradually grown used to it.

Postecoglou occasionally pairs the suit with trainers or the footwear known universally as ‘pundit shoes’, but generally, he wears smart black ones and has switched between a smarter coat and an official club sporty number.

The overall impression is of a man giving the minimum of fuss. It’s just who we are, mate.

David Moyes, West Ham United

Since returning to the helm in December 2019, Moyes has kept his choice of clothing on matchdays simple and traditional.

He often wears a dark grey West Ham-branded Umbro tracksuit, with Umbro trainers.

Sometimes, the occasion calls for a plain, dark jumper, but also, sometimes Moyes will wear a suit, pairing a powder blue shirt with a claret tie to leave few doubts over the club he’s managing.

There are a few quirks when it comes to the clothing chosen by one of the Premier League’s most experienced managers.

Gary O’Neil, Wolverhampton Wanderers

Let’s be honest, there was not much about Wolves last season that was interesting, but Julen Lopetegui’s fashion choices certainly added a bit of intrigue.

Of the 26 matches he spent on the touchline as Wolves boss — he was banished to the stands for his final game in charge at Arsenal — the Spaniard managed an exact split, 13 games each, between a tracksuit and stylish chinos-sweater combo.

Yet the success rate in chinos (seven wins, three draws and three defeats) was so much better than in his tracksuit (three wins, two draws and eight defeats). It is remarkable he did not have a ceremonial burning of the sportswear.

In comparison, his successor, O’Neil, has been boringly predictable in his black hoodie, black trousers, black trainers and occasional black anorak.

But then, the football this season has been watchable, so swings and roundabouts…

[f1]

Spanish Grand Prix: Fernando Alonso says F1 is 'easy from the sofa' as he responds to Monaco critics

Fernando Alonso has finished on the podium in five of the six races held so far in 2023 Fernando Alonso said Formula 1 is "very easy from the sofa" as he responded to claims Aston Martin could have won in Monaco last weekend. Alonso said that fitting intermediate tyres rather than slicks at a pit stop could "maybe" have given him the win. But he added: "What I don't like in F1 is that we see always the negatives. "We never put enough value on the right things the teams do in very stressful moments. We always spot one team that do wrong and then go hard on them." The 41-year-old Spaniard finished second to Red Bull's Max Verstappen at the Monaco Grand Prix for his and his team's best result of the season so far. Analysis of the race suggests that had Aston Martin fitted intermediate tyres when Alonso came in for his first pit stop as rain was falling on parts of the track he would have ended up ahead of Verstappen, who waited another lap to stop. As it turned out, Alonso had to pit again a lap later because the rain worsened as he left the pits and it became obvious that wet-weather tyres were the right choice. Alonso insisted his team made "the right decision" given conditions at the time. Asked whether there was any way he could have come out ahead of Verstappen, he said: "Maybe - if you had the crystal ball and you know the conditions, you know who stops, who doesn't stop, and then finally it rains and you need the inters, 100% you stop for inters. "What I don't like in F1 is that we see always the negatives and we all see everything very easy from the sofa. "And I tell you an example. If we stop for inters, this week we will only talk about the wrong decision from Red Bull stopping one lap too late. "We would never say: 'Aston Martin was very brave and chose the right tyre.' We would only say that Red Bull chose the wrong tyre and stopped one lap later. "This is just the mentality of F1, the unlimited search for perfection which is not possible to reach sometimes." And he defended the decision he and Aston Martin made in real time in Monaco, insisting that when he came in to the pits, the track was only partially wet and the team did not know what the weather would do. "Now, if we look the race on TV again, we will stop for inters, yes, 100% yes. That was better," he said. "But in that moment, why Max didn't stop for inters as well? He kept one lap longer than me but with a different tyre." Alonso repeated the point he made on Sunday after the race in Monaco, that Aston Martin had enough of a gap behind to secure second place even if they risked choosing dry tyres but had to come in again for wet tyres a lap later if the decision proved wrong. By contrast, he said, if they had fitted intermediate tyres at the first stop and then the rain had stopped, as they believed from their forecast it would, they would have fallen to seventh place behind a number of cars who had already changed for a new set of dry tyres 10 or more laps earlier before the rain arrived. "So," he said, "if we take the wrong decision, we finish P2 in Monaco. We took that." via BBC Sport - Formula 1 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/

[strawberryfilms-barcelona]

TV Commercials Filmed in Spain for the UK Market: Creativity Meets Stunning Locations

Spain has become a prime destination for UK brands looking to create visually stunning and culturally impactful TV commercials. With its diverse landscapes, exceptional weather, and vibrant cities, Spain offers a perfect backdrop to tell captivating stories that resonate with audiences back home. Why Spain for UK TV Commercials? Diverse Locations. From the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol to the bustling streets of Barcelona, Spain offers an array of settings to suit any commercial concept. Historical landmarks, modern architecture, and picturesque rural landscapes make it a versatile choice. Great Climate for Filming. With over 300 sunny days a year in many regions, Spain provides reliable weather conditions, reducing the risk of delays and ensuring smooth production. Cultural Connection. Spain’s rich culture and Mediterranean lifestyle often add a relatable, aspirational quality to advertisements aimed at UK audiences. Cost Efficiency. Filming in Spain can be more cost-effective than in the UK, with competitive rates for crew, locations, and equipment rental, without compromising on quality. Iconic Examples Several British brands have taken advantage of Spain's stunning locations for their TV commercials. From car brands showcasing vehicles winding through scenic Spanish mountain roads to fashion labels capturing elegant shots in historic plazas, Spain has played a key role in crafting memorable campaigns. Production Services in Barcelona Barcelona stands out as a hub for high-quality audiovisual production. With its mix of Gothic and contemporary architecture, Mediterranean coastline, and highly skilled local crews, it’s no surprise that many UK companies choose Barcelona as their filming destination. If you’re considering producing a TV commercial in Spain, our team in Barcelona specializes in offering end-to-end audiovisual production services. From location scouting to post-production, we ensure your vision comes to life seamlessly. You can stay updated on this and other news through: STRAWBERRY FILMS | Audiovisual Production Company Barcelona.

[theworldcigarr]

Essential Cigar Accessories for Collectors in Mumbai: Elevate Your Collection

Introduction

Cigar collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s an art form that requires attention to detail, passion, and the right tools. For cigar enthusiasts in Mumbai, the city’s vibrant cigar culture offers an exciting array of premium cigars, but to truly elevate your experience, you need the right accessories. From precision lighters to storage solutions, the best cigar accessories for collectors in Mumbai can enhance your collection, ensuring both its longevity and quality.

In this guide, we’ll explore the essential cigar accessories every collector should have, where to find them in Mumbai, and how they can help you maintain and enjoy your collection to its fullest. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a beginner building your collection, these accessories will help you refine your smoking experience.

The Importance of Quality Cigar Accessories for Collectors

Cigar collectors understand that it’s not just about owning rare cigars; it's about maintaining their condition and ensuring a perfect smoking experience every time. Proper accessories can make a huge difference in preserving your cigars, making them easier to enjoy, and enhancing the overall ritual.

Why Quality Accessories Matter

Preservation: Humidors, for example, keep cigars fresh and at optimal humidity levels. Without them, cigars can dry out, losing their flavor and aroma.

Precision: Lighters, cutters, and ashtrays are designed specifically for cigars, ensuring a smooth and even smoking experience without altering the taste or burn quality.

Elegance: For collectors, accessories also serve as a statement of luxury and style. The right cigar accessories add a sense of refinement to any collection or smoking environment.

Must-Have Cigar Accessories for Collectors in Mumbai

1. Cigar Humidors: The Key to Preservation

One of the most important accessories for any cigar collector is a humidor. Humidors maintain the ideal humidity and temperature, ensuring that your cigars stay fresh and don’t lose their flavour or burn inconsistently. Mumbai’s tropical climate can be tough on cigars, so a good humidor is essential for preserving your collection.

Features to Look for in a Humidor:

Capacity: Depending on the size of your collection, you'll need a humidor that offers enough space for your cigars.

Material: The best humidors are made from Spanish cedar, which is both aromatic and helps regulate humidity.

Hygrometer and Humidifier: Ensure the humidor includes a built-in hygrometer to monitor humidity and a humidifier to keep cigars at the proper moisture level.

Where to Find the Best Cigar Humidors in Mumbai:

Cigars of India in Fort offers a range of premium humidors.

The Cigar World in Colaba carries high-end options from top brands.

Shisha Cigar Shop in Lower Parel provides both entry-level and premium humidors.

2. Cigar Cutters: Precision is Everything

A sharp and reliable cigar cutter is essential for a clean, smooth cut. A poorly cut cigar can result in an uneven burn or an unpleasant draw, affecting your overall smoking experience. There are several types of cutters available, each offering different benefits for collectors.

Types of Cigar Cutters:

Straight Cutters: These cutters offer a clean, precise cut at the head of the cigar. Ideal for beginners and those who prefer a simple approach.

V-Cutters: These cutters create a V-shaped cut that helps open the cigar’s draw while ensuring a smooth burn.

Punch Cutters: Punch cutters create a small hole in the cigar’s cap, which provides a more controlled and focused smoking experience.

Where to Find the Best Cigar Cutters in Mumbai:

The Cigar Lounge in Bandra offers high-end cutters from top brands like Xikar and Colibri.

Cigars of India carries a variety of S.T. Dupont cutters, perfect for collectors looking for precision.

Sultan Cigar Lounge offers a wide selection of cutters, ranging from affordable to luxury models.

3. Cigar Lighters: Lighting Up in Style

A reliable cigar lighter is essential for lighting your cigar properly. Using a regular lighter can cause the cigar to burn unevenly, affecting the flavor. A high-quality lighter ensures a consistent, even burn and helps preserve the integrity of the cigar’s taste.

Types of Cigar Lighters:

Torch Lighters: These lighters produce a strong, focused flame, perfect for lighting cigars quickly and evenly.

Soft Flame Lighters: Soft flame lighters offer a more traditional approach and are often preferred for milder cigars.

Butane Lighters: Known for their clean burn, butane lighters are a reliable choice for collectors who want a high-quality, consistent flame.

Where to Find the Best Cigar Lighters in Mumbai:

Cigars of India and The Cigar World both carry premium S.T. Dupont lighters, known for their elegance and reliability.

Shisha Cigar Shop offers a range of Xikar and Colibri lighters that are both functional and stylish.

Sultan Cigar Lounge also stocks a variety of premium lighters for collectors.

4. Cigar Ashtrays: A Sophisticated Touch

While ashtrays may seem like a simple accessory, having the right cigar ashtray is important for maintaining your collection’s aesthetic and keeping your smoking environment clean. The best ashtrays are designed with large, deep trays to hold cigar ash without causing mess, and many come with built-in rests to secure your cigar between puffs.

Features of the Best Cigar Ashtrays:

Large Bowl: The tray should be large enough to hold cigar ash without overflowing.

Cigar Rests: A built-in rest helps keep your cigar secure while you take a break.

Durability: The material should be sturdy enough to withstand the heat from the cigar.

Where to Find Premium Cigar Ashtrays in Mumbai:

The Cigar Lounge in Bandra offers luxury ashtrays made from ceramic and glass.

Cigars of India and The Cigar World also carry premium ashtrays, including exclusive options from brands like S.T. Dupont.

5. Cigar Tongs: A Practical and Elegant Tool

A cigar tong is a small yet essential tool for cigar collectors who prefer to handle their cigars without touching them directly. These tongs allow you to light, hold, and position your cigar without damaging the wrapper or affecting the smoking experience.

Why Use Cigar Tongs?

Preserve the Cigar’s Integrity: Tongs prevent fingerprints or heat marks on the delicate cigar wrapper.

Control: Tongs offer better control over the cigar, especially when lighting or adjusting it.

Where to Find Cigar Tongs in Mumbai:

Sultan Cigar Lounge carries elegant cigar tongs in addition to other premium accessories.

Cigars of India and The Cigar World also stock high-quality tongs for collectors who want to handle their cigars with care.

Where to Buy the Best Cigar Accessories for Collectors in Mumbai

1. Cigars of India (Fort)

For serious cigar collectors in Mumbai, Cigars of India is a one-stop shop for all things cigar-related. Whether you need a humidor, cutter, lighter, or ashtray, they offer a wide range of premium accessories from top international brands like S.T. Dupont, Xikar, and Colibri.

2. The Cigar World (Colaba)

The Cigar World offers a curated selection of luxury cigar accessories, including high-end lighters, cutters, and humidors. Located in Colaba, this store is known for its personalised service and knowledgeable staff, making it a go-to spot for collectors.

3. Shisha Cigar Shop (Lower Parel)

If you're looking for affordable yet high-quality cigar accessories, Shisha Cigar Shop in Lower Parel is an excellent choice. They carry a variety of butane lighters, cutters, and humidors, ideal for collectors on a budget.

4. Sultan Cigar Lounge (Bandra)

For those who enjoy a relaxed cigar-smoking environment while shopping for accessories, Sultan Cigar Lounge is a great option. Their selection of cigar accessories is complemented by a cosy lounge atmosphere where you can enjoy a cigar while browsing.

Conclusion

Collecting cigars in Mumbai is a rewarding experience, but it’s the right accessories that truly elevate your collection. From humidors to cigar cutters and lighters, the best cigar accessories for collectors in Mumbai help preserve your cigars' freshness, enhance your smoking experience, and add a touch of elegance to your collection. By visiting Mumbai's top cigar shops like Cigars of India, The Cigar World, and Shisha Cigar Shop, you can find the finest accessories to elevate your cigar collection and enjoy a perfect smoke every time.

[granite-mart]

Discover the Allure of Spanish Granite: Azul Aran and Azul Bahia

Spain is renowned for producing some of the world’s most exquisite natural stones, and two of its finest granite varieties—Azul Aran and Azul Bahia—are prime examples of the country’s natural beauty and craftsmanship. With their perfect balance of timeless elegance and exceptional durability, these granites are increasingly sought after for both residential and commercial applications. In this blog, we explore their unique characteristics, uses, and benefits to help guide you in choosing the ideal stone for your next design project.

Azul Aran: Subtle Elegance with Contemporary Flair

Azul Aran granite is characterised by its stunning grey base, beautifully complemented by delicate blue veins that give the stone an elegant yet modern appearance. Sourced from Spain, this granite is celebrated for its intricate, veined patterns, which add visual depth and sophistication to any space. Available in thicknesses of 30mm, 20mm, and 10mm, Azul Aran is highly versatile, making it perfect for a range of applications from kitchen worktops to bathroom vanities and flooring.

Its neutral grey tones make it a suitable choice for both contemporary and traditional designs, effortlessly blending into various interiors. Whether it’s used in high-traffic areas or more refined spaces, the inherent durability of Azul Aran ensures it stands up to the demands of daily life while maintaining its aesthetic appeal. For those seeking a reliable yet visually striking granite, Azul Aran provides an exceptional balance of form and function.

Azul Bahia: Oceanic Beauty in Stone

Azul Bahia, also known as Blue Bahia, offers a bolder and more vibrant option for those looking to make a statement. With its deep, rich blue hues and distinctive, wave-like patterns, this granite evokes the beauty of the ocean. Sourced from Spain, Azul Bahia brings a touch of luxury and artistry to any space, making it a popular choice for high-end projects and eye-catching feature pieces.

Available in 30mm and 20mm thicknesses, Azul Bahia is perfect for applications like countertops, feature walls, and bespoke architectural features. Its striking blue tones demand attention, creating a dramatic focal point in any room. The stone’s natural durability ensures it is suited for use in both kitchens and bathrooms, offering resistance to heat, moisture, and the wear and tear of daily life. Azul Bahia pairs beautifully with neutral tones such as white, beige, and grey, allowing its bold colours to truly shine. It’s the ideal choice for those who wish to create a visually stunning, yet sophisticated, atmosphere in their home or business.

Key Applications of Azul Aran and Azul Bahia

Both Azul Aran and Azul Bahia are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various applications:

Kitchen Worktops: Both stones are highly durable, resistant to heat, and easy to maintain, making them perfect for kitchen surfaces. Azul Aran suits minimalist kitchens with its understated elegance, while Azul Bahia creates a striking centrepiece with its bold blue tones.

Bathroom Vanities: Their resistance to moisture and easy maintenance makes these granites an ideal choice for luxurious bathroom surfaces.

Flooring: Both Azul Aran and Azul Bahia are durable enough to withstand high foot traffic, making them perfect for flooring that combines luxury with practicality.

Feature Walls: Azul Bahia, in particular, works beautifully for creating bold, eye-catching feature walls that add character to any room.

Custom Furniture and Design Accents: From tabletops to bespoke furniture pieces, these granites add an elegant touch to interior design projects.

Benefits of Choosing Azul Aran and Azul Bahia

Opting for these premium Spanish granites comes with several benefits:

Durability: Both Azul Aran and Azul Bahia are resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, ensuring they remain in excellent condition for many years, even in high-traffic areas.

Versatility: The availability of different thicknesses allows these stones to be tailored to suit various design needs and applications.

Aesthetic Appeal: The unique patterns and colours of Azul Aran and Azul Bahia make them perfect for creating distinctive, memorable spaces.

Low Maintenance: Both stones require minimal upkeep, maintaining their beauty and luster for years to come.

Choosing the Right Granite for Your Project

When deciding between Azul Aran and Azul Bahia, it’s important to consider the overall design theme and intended use of the space. Azul Aran is ideal for those seeking a more understated, sophisticated look that complements a wide range of interior styles. In contrast, Azul Bahia is perfect for those looking to make a bold, dramatic statement with its vibrant blue hues.

Consider the thickness that best suits your project: 30mm slabs are perfect for worktops, offering both strength and a luxurious finish, while 20mm and 10mm thicknesses are well-suited for cladding and custom design accents.

By selecting Azul Aran or Azul Bahia, you’re choosing not only an elegant and durable surface but also a piece of nature’s artistry that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your space.

[alexbkrieger13]

Endler is only 33 years old, so in theory and under optimal conditions, she should still be improving and be at the height of her career performance wise. Injuries or other forced breaks from the game can, of course, hinder that. Knee injuries can be deadly for keepers because they often lose their explosiveness, which is required from a goalie. But I don't think Endler had any major injuries, at least that I'm aware of. She's just not really challenged in the French league and probably from her coaches, so she's kind of stagnating for a while now or even regressing in some areas. I can name quite a few goalkeepers way more impressive than her as of now. I know Berger is in her same age range (roughly), and she is a perfect example of still improving and having a way broader skill set than just shot stopping. Schult is also around her age and also someone I would only qualify as a good shot stopper, but she's been out because of pregnancies and not being first choice because of performances until recently. Just my two cents

As I've said before there's only so much a player can improve in leagues such as the Spanish or the French League because you're only getting a handful of competitive games a year.

[kaigourmet001]

The New Norm in Main Eating Up: Iberico Pork and Ora King Salmon!

In the space of top-notch food, where educated culinary authorities and gourmands look for the best decorations, certain meats, and fish have come to address sublime quality and taste. Among these luxurious decorations, Iberico pork, Wagyu franks, Iberico pork secreto, and Ora King salmon have taken out a position of partition. Each watches out for a zenith of culinary importance and their unquestionable quality shows the general sensation of taste that values serious flavors and immaculate surfaces.

Iberico Pork: Spain's Culinary Fortune

Iberico pork, consistently called the "Kobe meat of pork," comes from the regarded Iberian pig, a neighborhood to Spain and pieces of Portugal. These faint-hoofed pigs are raised on a careful feeding plan of oak seeds during the last times of their lives, giving an unquestionable flavor profile that is rich, nutty, and marbled with intramuscular fat. Ora King from one side of the world to the other blesses it for its rich taste and flexibility — it will commonly be barbecued, stewed, or, in any event, feeling significantly improved perfectly.

Ordinarily cooked at lower temperatures to maintain its juiciness, Iberico pork flank coordinates well with straightforward flavorings like salt, pepper, and olive oil, as its intrinsic flavor doesn't require many upgrades. In Spain, it is frequently barbecued or container-singed, fully intent on letting the nature of the pork justify itself with factual evidence. The flank can likewise be restored to make a ham known as lomo, one more delicacy that features the intense kinds of the Iberico breed.

Wagyu Wieners: Lifting a Work of Art

When integrated into a direct, Wagyu raises this dear solace food to a more critical level than at some other time. Wagyu hotdogs are known for their extensive, forcing flavor and delicate, delectable surface that beats standard cheeseburger wieners. These top-notch wines are sometimes given top-tier fortifications, for example, specific mustards, authority cheeses, and new brioche buns.

Ora King Salmon: The Wagyu of the Ocean

Hailing from New Zealand, Ora King salmon is consistently named the "Wagyu of the ocean" considering its excellent marbling, rich flavor, and consolidated in-your-mouth surface. Not by any stretch like various kinds of salmon, Ora King is unequivocally duplicated for its high-fat substance and flavor consistency, making it a epicurean specialists in extraordinary quality bistros. The fish's eating standard and impeccable creating conditions add to its transcendent taste and surface.

Ora King salmon stands apart with its firm tissue and abundant grouping, making it ideal for sushi, sashimi, or clear barbecuing. Its perfect, rich flavor organizes well with different flavors; in any case, it is sometimes prepared with unimportant mediation to allow its standard credits to radiate through. Ora King salmon conveys unmatched fish information, whether served crude, cooked, or smoked.

Iberico pork secreto: The Best Example of Sea Food

Iberico pork secreto is a mysterious fixing in Spanish cooking; it has gained affirmation and appreciation worldwide. Its climb in reputation can be credited to the growing energy for top-type, ethically raised meats and the rising apparent nature of Spanish gastronomy on the overall stage. In first-rate establishments and homes, something very similar, the mystery cut has turned into a pursued fixing, regarded for its ideal taste and surface.

Various connoisseur experts propose serving Iberico pork secreto with precise reinforcements that won't overpower the meat's flavor. Sides like cooked vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or even a light serving of leafy greens with citrus can enhance the meat's liberality, allowing the pork to be the dish's star.

Conclusion

Customers may generally be viewed as a veritable charge, yet the prospect of Wagyu meat in the blend changes this popular food into a King delicacy. The rising reputation of KAI GOURMETfor Iberico pork, Wagyu wieners, Iberico pork secreto, and Ora King salmon is typical for an enormous model in the food business: the making interest in premium decorations that offer outstanding quality and flavor.

[johnnymarkssh]

Choosing the Right Roofing Material for Your Property

There are various roofing options widely available and you must know their pros and cons before you make a choice. With a little guidance, however, you can select the right material for your ranch and avoid many of the common headaches.

Asphalt Shingles

One of the most popular roofing materials in North America is asphalt shingles, mainly because they are cost-effective and require a lot of work. Homeowners can choose from a multitude of surface colors and styles from their favorite residential roofing services, which fit the design of a property. Asphalt shingles are typically good for anywhere from 15 to 30 years and keep the elements at bay—although not perfectly.

Advantages:

Available, and can be made highly cheap quite easily.

Variety of styles and colors

It is relatively easy to install and replace

Disadvantages:

Lower Lifespan than other materials

Damageable to high wind and hail

Clay and Concrete Tiles

Mediterranean or Spanish style architecture tile includes clay and concrete. They are known to be durable and to resist extreme weather. Concrete tiles usually last 30 to 50 years while Clay tiles can withstand more than 100 years of service. And they are also fire resistant and have good insulation.

Advantages:

High durability and life

Fire resistant and energy efficient

Appearance that improves curb appeal

Disadvantages:

High installation costs, heavy weight, and heavy roof structure is required.

Cracking prone if walked on, and fragile

Synthetic Roofing Products

As synthetic roofing materials have become more popular, including rubber or plastic composites due to versatility and performance, the boards are available in a much broader range of sizes and shapes, making it nearly universal for virtually any situation. Such materials can create the appearance of a traditional roofing option such as slate or wood, but with improved durability and low maintenance responsibility. Typically synthetic roofs have long lifespans, 30 to 50 years.

Advantages:

Fast and easy to install, lightweight

Will not bug (insects), rot, or weather.

Styles and colors available in a wide variety of styles

Disadvantages:

Initial cost often is higher than traditional materials.

Points to Think About Choosing Roofing Materials

When choosing the right roofing material for your property, consider the following factors:

Climate: Materials are better suited to different weather conditions. For example: metal roofing is perfect for snowy areas, clay tiles for hot areas.

Budget: Decide whether or not it’s worth it based on the offline cost versus the benefit. Certain materials will cost more initially, but less in maintenance and replacement.

Aesthetic Preferences: Pick a roofing style that will match the look of your home and boost its appeal outside.

Local Building Codes: See that the roofing material you choose is in accordance with local rules and guidelines of neighboring homeowners' associations.

Conclusion

Different roofing materials have their own pros and cons and you need to see what you truly need and what you truly like. Consult with a roofing professional and get the input and advice specific to your property.

[spanishskulduggery]

What's the difference between subjunctive imperfect -ra and -se ? (Photo example of ConjuGato) And do people actually use these tenses colloquially irl???

There used to be more of a difference; today it's more likely that in Latin America you'll see the -ra endings. Spain makes more of a distinction

Short answer: Yes, imperfect subjunctive is used quite often. Primarily, imperfect subjunctive is used when you have if/then statements - imperfect subjunctive is the "if", and conditional tense is the "then"

[si tuviera dinero "if I had money", si estuviera allí "if I were there"... etc.]

A more complete if/then is like si tuviera (el) dinero, viajaría más "if I had (the) money, I would travel more" ... and you can flip that like viajaría más si tuviera (el) dinero

Primarily imperfect subjunctive is using a subjunctive expression in the past or it's talking about hypothetical things that may/may not happen in the future but more doubtful or contrary to fact; like "if I had money" or "if I were rich"... implication is that it's not realistic or doubtful, as opposed to someone's long term goal like "when I'm a doctor" or "when I graduate" etc.

Future tense is used more as an eventual thing, imperfect subjunctive is a hypothetical

Or did you mean, "Do people use the -se endings?" Because the answer is - Yes, people in Spain more often use this on the regular. Latin America rarely

This is going to require some extra long history explanation with grammar that you may not know, so please bear with me I will try to be concise

-

Originally, the two subjunctive tenses were more distinct

In Spanish there are three moods - imperative [commands], subjunctive, and indicative [literally everything else]

And in those moods there are tenses, predominantly present, past, and future tense

For subjunctive there was a more distinct present subjunctive, a past subjunctive [imperfect subjunctive], and a more distinct future subjunctive for future or hypothetical

-

Secondly, we have to briefly discuss pluperfect for later on

The perfect tenses today are done with haber + past participle

Present perfect is like he hablado "I have spoken", he comido "I have eaten", he vivido "I have lived"

Pluperfect is this idea just in past tense; now done with the imperfect form of haber + past participle... había hablado/comido/vivido "I had spoken/eaten/lived" - so instead of "have" it's now "had"

...

In older Spanish, pluperfect was done with the -ra endings... this is because haber was used like tener is today, and the haber + past participle wasn't as common

In other words, it used to be that hablara was "I had spoken"; and it wasn't subjunctive at the time

-

So back to subjunctive; at some point, the imperfect subjunctive [past subjunctive] merged with the future subjunctive and the true future subjunctive went out of style to become obsolete

And for reference, future subjunctive had -re endings like hablare, comiere, viviere... for ser it was fuere so you might see some older writing use si fuere menester which is "should it happen to be necessary"; in contracts it sometimes get used as "in the event of" but it's super antiquated

-

In modern Spanish I mentioned it's more of a regional distinction now

Latin America uses any kind of imperfect subjunctive typically with -ra endings

...

Spain makes more of a distinction between the two

Spain will sometimes say things like quería que pusieras la mesa "I wanted you to set the table" for a past subjunctive

But then say si fuese necesario "if necessary" / "in the event of"

In other words, Spain makes more of a distinction between something subjunctive happening in the past [-ra], and something that may happen in the future as a hypothetical [-se]

This is mostly important for hypotheticals; Latin America might say si (yo) fuera presidente/presidenta "if I were president", Spain might say si (yo) fuese presidente/presidenta "if I were president"

And so Spain might make a more grammatical distinction between something like si supiera/si lo hubiera sabido "if I knew/had known (at that time in the past)", and then si supiese "if I were to know" as a potential future

-

English subjunctive works very similarly

We say "if I was" as if it were past tense, but it's not technically past

If we want to be extra clear it's a hypothetical we say "if I were" is distinctly subjunctive

We phrase other things like this - "if I knew" vs. "if I were to know", or "if I lived" vs. "if I were to live"

This is a holdover from German's subjunctive conjugations but it's very similar to how Spain treats the subjunctive; that one is more distinctly subjunctive and that's "if I were", and that it almost sounds more formal - "if you lived in the city, what would you do?" vs. "if you were to live in the city, what would you do?"

-

And just some additional information that you should know

Although Latin America uses -ra endings for imperfect subjunctive, they do recognize it as pluperfect in certain situations

This is a holdover from literary traditions, where in older Spanish (or in things set in the medieval period) you may see -ra used as pluperfect

As an example, someone once mentioned Lord of the Rings used llamara that way and they weren't sure why it was subjunctive - but it was pluperfect, llamara as "had called"

The most notable example of this is in journalism or biographies you will sometimes see it as pluperfect

Modern Spanish tends to say nació "was born" for people/biographies, but in some cases you'll see naciera "was born/had been born"; for Latin Americans this comes across as a style change, like a shift in the formality

...But you'd NEVER see naciese used like this because it wouldn't make sense

[thismisfitslife]

Culture in Barcelona

The luxury of attending Primavera Sounds in Barcelona, is that the festival doesn't start until the afternoon, which means that there is plenty of time to discover the cultural heritage and attractions Barcelona has to offer, and my, there are a lot of them!

We arrived late afternoon on Wednesday so simply discovered the neighbourhood and thoroughly enjoyed the soft afternoon breeze of the Spanish May weather. The next day we discovered the Picasso Museum after having discovered some of its surroundings, and the fact that there is a reason Primavera Sounds doesn't start before 2pm, because it's too hot for a festival and a bunch of drunken Brits (because most of its festivalgoers are British). A well air-conditioned museum filled with stunning art is the perfect place to be for an afternoon in Spain!

The next day we decided to discover Barcelona Cathedral, another great example of an air-conditioned piece of captivating architecture. We went up on its rooftop which offered us an incredible view of Barcelona, and came including an AI 'tour' that showed what the cathedral would've been like when it just got built. The building breathes history and we just know these walls have heard and seen plenty, we would love to return to the cathedral many times, even just for the fantastic views of the city on its roof.

On Saturday we finally visited one of Barcelona's greatest, yet to be completed, achievements; the Sagrada Familia. The absolutely stunning modern building is as grand as you would expect and beautifully reflects the sunlight shining through its stained glass windows on its off-white ceiling. We could have spent a whole day in the mesmerising building, and the outside might even be better looking than its interior. Beautiful statues captured in great detail, together with all other well-executed attributes, this basilica outshines all others.

One of the many museums on our wish list was the Banksy Museum, which we ended up visiting on one of our last days, entirely worth its entry fee, the museum is filled with Banksy's work all over the world and we couldn't get enough of discovering some their exciting works highlighting their political views, most of which we completely agreed with! Barcelona and its cultural excursions was undoubtedly a highlight of 2024.

[australbricksblogs]

Five Clay Bricks to Watch Out From Brick Suppliers

Image source australbricks

Building a home, or any construction project in general, costs significant money. Aside from choosing from reputable brick suppliers, it's important that they guide you as well. This includes helping you choose the right clay bricks for your build. Here are five different bricks you might want to consider.

Understanding Clay Bricks

Clay bricks are one of the oldest and most durable building materials. They are made by mixing clay and water. Additionally, industrial bricks follow an extensive manufacturing process, making them stand the test of time. They are used for different applications in the building process, including walls, pavers, facades, and more.

These bricks are much more durable than concrete ones. The clay variant boasts higher compressive strength, making them cheaper to maintain in the long run with fewer repairs.

1. Burlesque

These brick products are designed to make a statement—provocative and eye-catching. The Burlesque line offers a seamless and stunning appearance. In fact, it is available in thirteen vibrant colours which makes it appealing to homeowners seeking a bold choice. In addition to that, these bricks are versatile, suitable for both internal and external applications.

2. Everyday Life

In contrast to the previous line, Everyday Life offers a more calming and homey example of brickwork building products. This versatile line of bricks features a light, modern texture and natural clay colours. In fact, builders can choose from eight different colours for their kitchen, boundary, and bathroom walls, as well as landscaping, flooring, and fireplaces.

3. La Paloma 50

Another line of brick suppliers draws inspiration from Spanish designs. Described as confident and creative, they echo the works of Dali, Picasso, and Miró. The La Palama and La Paloma Rustico bricks feature soft white and charcoal-black tones. These bricks are complemented by beautiful fired clay colours. They come in four distinct finishes: Azul, Castellana, Miro, and Romero.

4. San Selmo

If you’re considering building a traditional home, the San Selmo line is perfect for you. Inspired by European designs, these textured, kiln-fired bricks come from esteemed Italian manufacturers. They feature beautiful, tactile surfaces that mimic the look of recycled bricks. Available in aged red, limewash, and original colours, the San Selmo Classico Limewash has even been named the 2024 Brick of the Year.

5. Hamptons Whitehaven

This particular brick from Hamptons is perfect for minimalism enthusiasts. With its fine-grained texture and delicate colour palette, it exudes effortless elegance. In fact, it offers the same versatile applications as the previous two lines which is ideal for ocean-facing homes or coastal construction projects.

Visualising Your Dream Façade

After highlighting the top five bricks to watch this year, it's crucial to ensure they align with your vision. Given the significant investment in construction projects, selecting the right materials is essential.

While some brick manufacturers provide free samples, others are elevating their services. Builders can now create mood boards with manufacturers to ensure seamless and cohesive designs. Our team at Austral Bricks offers a mood board tool in collaboration with Style Sourcebook. This helps you find the perfect home elements and features that complement your chosen bricks.

Why Choose Clay Bricks Over Others?

There are several compelling reasons for homeowners to choose clay bricks over other building materials. One major advantage is their durability, which stems from their robust manufacturing process. These bricks are resilient to harsh weather conditions and can help prevent the spread of fires during emergencies.

Clay bricks are also more sustainable to produce, as they are primarily made from natural materials. In fact, many of the excess materials from their production can be repurposed for other uses.

Another significant benefit is their excellent temperature regulation. Clay bricks can store heat and cold air, making them ideal for regions with extreme weather conditions. This is due to their thermal mass, which helps maintain optimal indoor temperatures.

While there are other benefits, these key examples highlight why clay bricks are a superior choice for construction.

Select Austral Bricks For Clay Bricks

When selecting brick suppliers, quality is very important. Austral Bricks has been a trusted name in New South Wales for over a century. Established in 1908, we have consistently provided high-quality, aesthetically pleasing bricks. Our resilience, demonstrated by surviving the economic collapse of the Depression, speaks to our endurance and reliability.

With years of expertise, our dedicated team ensures the superior quality of our brick production through continuous research and development. To know more about us, book a free colour consultation today!

You can also check out our story or our company policies for further reference.

[adamfinchley]

OUR FUTURE LOOKS BLEAK AS WE DON’T HELP OURSELVES

H1N1 influenza A virus and xylella fastidiosa bacteria have something in common. The former killed between fifty and one hundred people between 1918 and 1920 and was known as the Spanish Flu. 

And the latter is a bacterium that is also decimating numbers but not humans. This one is destroying olive trees in Spain and moving now across France, Italy, and Greece.

Both are examples of how a tiny microorganism can do so much damage with little our existing technology can control. There are plenty of other examples such as the medieval Black Death and a bacterium that not so long ago destroyed huge swathes of French vineyards. 

That last example resulted in importing vines from other countries to save the whole French wine industry. 

The First World War is an example of the stupidity of humankind and it resulted in around ten million soldiers killing each other with another thirty million civilians dead. 

No sooner had it ended, than the Spanish Flu began, and this killed off twice or thrice the numbers killed in that war. 

In more recent times, it was AIDS that killed many and led others to be so worried it was thought to be the beginning of the end of the World. And even more recently, COVID was equally scary. 

It is now thought that that last example was the result of humans creating a virus in a laboratory. As if natural viruses and bad bacteria was not bad enough, we now make our own. 

Humans in the form we are today, have only been around fifty to sixty thousand years. In the context of other creatures, this is an extremely short time. There are for example, sharks in the deep oceans today that are over four hundred years old and their line goes back at least two hundred million years. 

At the rate we are going, it doesn’t seem there is much future for us unless we make radical changes. The first step should be to spend more on preventative medicine and nothing on arms. 

We can’t kill all the dangerous bacteria and viruses, they’re too clever at evolving and multiplying. Antibiotics have worked brilliantly over the last hundred years or more. But our own defence system is finding ways to attack and destroy them, as well as learning faster, how to recognise them. 

In our digestive system we have trillions of microorganisms happily waiting for the food we eat, for them in turn to nibble away at. 

Our intestines offer perfect conditions for bacteria to live. Wet and warm are those conditions. They typically live three to five years, but are constantly splitting and reproducing. 

When we live on a diet of junk food that typically contains excessive amounts of sugar, salt, and added extras, our gut microbiome can be compromised and result in minor complications, from bloating to constipation and everything in between

Supplements like Threelac can help those friendly bacteria in the intestines, where those microorganisms help release the essential vitamins and minerals into our blood.