Pamplona - Mice

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The right mix of modern and antique. Pamplona is located in a privileged position in Spain for MICE. Read more about its culture, activities, facilities and attractions. A lovely city for any visitor and organizer.

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PAMPL NA CONTENTS

In this issue we are going to Pamplona (Navarra) in the north of Spain. Famous throughout the world for its San Fermín bull-running fiesta, it is also one of Spain’s greenest cities. Discover its state-of-the art Baluarte Auditorium and Conference Center, excellent cuisine, itineraries and ... much more.

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BALUARTE Page 6

SPECIAL VENUES & HOTELS Page 8

PAMPLONICA EXPERIENCES/ITINERARIES Page 10

PAMPLONA Page 4

ESSENTIAL BEFORE YOU GO Page 26

NAVARRA TRADITIONS Page 22

SAN FERMINES FIESTAS Page 14

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The Tourist Offices of Spain form part of a network of 33 worldwide offices of TURESPAÑA, Spain’s government tourism promotion authority based in Madrid. Four branch offices in the USA (Los Angeles, Chicago, New York and Miami) promote convention, meeting business and incentive and leisure to consumers, press, and travel professionals in their respective geographic jurisdiction.

TRADE RELATIONS CONTACTS

LOS ANGELES (West Coast USA) Ms. Rocio Monforte rocio.monforte@tourspain.es CHICAGO (Midwest USA) Ms. Wasy Kushchynskyj wasylynka.kushchynskyj@tourspain.es NEW YORK (North-East USA) Ms. Rudaina Ansari rudaina.ansari@tourspain.es MIAMI (South-East USA) Ms. Lorena Villar lorena.villar@tourspain.es

@SpaininUSA

/SpaininUSA

SpaininUSA

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AMPL

A CITY FULL OF HISTORY

WHY PAMPLONA? • Modern infrastructure boasting cutting-edge technology. • Privileged position as a gateway to Europe and proximity to other major cities in the north of Spain. • Innovative, safe, professional, and welcoming community. • Unique historical and architectural heritage, promising to turn your event into an unforgettable experience.

St. Nicholas Church - Pamplona

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PAMPLONA, CAPITAL OF NAVARRE

MODERNITY & HISTORY

Pamplona is a city where modernity and tradition merge offering a wide range of activities. Emblematic spots are marked by the Sanfermines: Estafeta Street, where you can sense the tension of the Running of the Bulls, and the Way of St. James: Romanesque bridge of La Magdalena, at the foot of the ramparts, which welcomes weary pilgrims.

Olite - Navarra

THE PERFECT MICE CITY

RICH HERITAGE & TRADITIONAL SERVICE

In Pamplona you’ll find a wide range of accommodations, dining, and entertainment facilities in close proximity to its MICE venues. This comfortable city also offers ramparts, a citadel, parks, and green areas. From Pamplona as a base, the charming tourism offerings of the rest of the Navarra region can be enjoyed. Tradition and innovation are at the service of all visitors.

White Horse Mirador - Pamplona

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BALUARTE

The BALUARTE Congress Center and Auditorium of Navarra is one of the biggest centers in Spain with a surface area of 52,000 sq. ft., including two underground car park levels with capacity for 900 vehicles. Located in the center of Pamplona and just 12 minutes away from the airport, BALUARTE stands on a key site between the liveliest shopping and leisure area of the city and the citadel, a 16th-century fortress converted into a delightful park.

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Baluarte offers a wide variety of meeting rooms used for exhibitions. All the spaces are fully equipped with the latest technology and other amenities. Over the past 10 years, more than 4 million people have taken part in activities at the Baluarte.

The main areas the center offers are: • Baluarte Plaza (can function as extension to other areas) • Main lobby and 3rd floor lobby • Main auditorium • Chambers Music hall • 2 Congress Rooms • 3 Conference Rooms • 2 Exhibitions Halls

• Muralla Hall • Press Room

Capacities http://www.baluarte.com/eng/facilities-services/facilities

Services http://www.baluarte.com/eng/salas-y-servicios/servicios

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SPECIAL VENUES AND HOTELS

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HOTEL MUGA DE BELOSO ALMAPAMPLONA – 5 STAR HOTEL http://almahotels.com/pamplona/

GRAN HOTEL LA PERLA – 5 STAR HOTEL http://www.granhotellaperla.com/

HOTEL NH IRUÑA PARK – 4 STAR HOTEL https://www.nh-hoteles.es/hotel/nh-pamplona-iruna-park?gmb

HOTEL PALACIO GUENDULAIN – 4 STAR HOTEL https://www.palacioguendulain.com/eng/

HOTEL IRUÑA PALACE TRES REYES – 4 STAR HOTEL https://hotel3reyes.com/en/

CASTILLO DE GORRAIZ HOTEL GOLF & SPA – 4 STAR HOTEL https://www.cghotel.es/index.asp

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PAMPLONICA EXPERIENCES & ITINERARIES

The city of Pamplona offers many possibilities for unforgettable events and general tourism, all with a special cultural flair. The superb quality of the cuisine and wine of Navarra, its role as a pillar for Hemingway, Camino de Santiago, medical tourism, its singular venues both historic and ultramodern, combined with its comfortable city size. In conclusion, it is an outstanding site for your programs.

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ITINERARIES

1 The Way of St. James enters Pamplona over the medieval bridge of La Magdalena. After this, the gateway of France opens Pamplona, the first city on the Way of St. James, inviting pilgrims to embark on a world-reknown route packed with history.

2 Pamplona, Monumental and Artistic. Fortified churches, palaces belonging to the nobility, hospitals turned into museums and buildings that take you back to older times all form part of this route. One of the most remarkable examples of this is the CITADEL, or “Ciudadela”. This enclosure considered the finest example of Spanish Renaissance military architecture and one of the most important defensive complexes in Europe.

3 Pamplona-fortified city. This medieval city walls are among the best preserved in Europe. The Route of the Castles and Fortresses of Navarre suggests four tours of 19 strategic points. Fromnorth to south, visitors will discover a range of different buildings types, periods and styles. This is a new cultural journey to discover.

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PINCHOWEEK GASTRONOMY ANDWINERIES

1 One of Pamplona’s main attractions and a major part of Navarra´s culture is, without a doubt, its cuisine. Pintxos – they are like “tapas” but more elaborated – are one of the highlights of this gastronomic tradition. During the first weeks of May this festival gathers more than 100 bars participating, the closer to the capital, Pamplona, the highest the concentration. They create delicate, elaborate recipes that compete for one of the prizes awarded by the jury panel to verify the quality of the appetizer.

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RESTAURANTS DEL REYNO

2 This entity brings together the most reputed and innovative chefs in Navarre. They are the crucible where tradition, marvelous local ingredients and modernism fuse resulting in exquisite pintxos. Many restaurants and bars in Pamplona offer every Thursday night the popular “Juevintxo”: a recent tradition in which people can get a drink and a snack at a special low price, enjoying a unique cheerful atmosphere.

WINERIES AND EVENTS

3 “Navarra Wine Route” is a lovely activity for foodies and wine lovers. The tour offers information and degustation about the most characteristics wines of the region (Navarra designation) including red, white, rosé or muscatel. Moreover, if you like stronger drinks, pacharán is your best choice, a local sloe liquor. You can buy typical Navarrese products, both fresh and packed to last, from most food shops or street markets in the city.

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SAN FERMINES FIESTAS

San Fermín Fiesta is a deeply rooted celebration, taking place each year in Pamplona. Just before noon on July 6, the square in front of Pamplona’s Town Hall packed with people who eagerly await this day of the year. Thousands of residents and tourists, dressed in the traditional white outfit with red handkerchiefs, wait for the pyrotechnic “chupinazo”, a rocket fired from the balcony of the town hall, which marks the beginning of the festivities.

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While its most famous event is the Running of the Bulls, from July 6 to July 14, the Sanfermines involves many other traditional and folkloric events such as the colorful pa-rade of “giants and big-heads”, open-air celebrations, concerts, dance exhibitions and bullfights.

The atmosphere vibrates in the streets of Pamplona until July 14. That day, once again people joyfully congregate in the Town Hall, this time with lighted candles, singing the traditional mournful notes of “Pobre de mí” (Poor me), to send off the Sanfermines until the following year.

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THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS

The Running of the Bulls is the main attraction of this celebration, turning Pamplona into a non- stop fiesta. The running (“Encierro” in Spanish) means every morning hundreds of people run, in an obstacle-packed rapid race, through the old part of town while the bulls chase them until they reach the bullring. These runs last around three thrilling minutes of unrivalled risk and excitement, showing why this event is so well known all around the world.

TAKING PART IN SAN FERMÍN

Running with the bulls or enjoying the show from balconies are key elements of the celebrations. During the festivities people can rent spaces in balconies of buildings located where the celebrations take place, then, enjoy the action from a safe view and observing details that are easy to miss on the ground. Either there or running in the bullring, people can interact with locals or tourists from morning to night, enjoying the party like vibe. If you wish to come to San Fermín fiestas you should make your arrangements well in advance, waiting for the last minute also works, but the preparations might be hasty for non-experienced travelers.

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HEMINGWAY AND PAMPLONA

Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961) came to Pamplona on July 1923, while the Fiesta of San Fermín was in full swing. The atmosphere in the city and, particularly, the gratuitous contest between man, bull and death made such an impression on him that he chose the fiesta as the backdrop to his first successful novel, “The Sun Also Rises” published three years later. The fiesta captivated him, returning until 8 times after his first visit.

Nobody ever lives their lives all the way up except bullfighters – Ernest Hemingway

INTERNATIONAL EFFECT

Hemingway brought the spectacle to the general attention of English-speaking people. It has become probably the most internationally renowned fiesta from Spain. Over a million people come to participate in this festival. “A spectacle capable of getting you out of bed at half past five in the morning for several days in a row” – Ernest Hemingway

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TRAVELING TO PAMPLONA

Planning your Pamplona trip for the Running of the Bulls can feel overwhelming at times, especially if this is your first visit or you are bringing a group of people. Therefore, we recommend checking the options available and consulting different providers of services in the city. To obtain more information, contact Tourist Offices of Spain (see page 3)

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Located over the famous Irati forest, at an average altitude of 4,600 ft., the Centre has a central building for ski and snowshoe hire, a bar-café and an outdoor parking area. During winter, it has around 14 miles of skiable routes, and snowshoeing. ABODI-IRATI NORDIC SKI CENTER PLACES OF INTEREST

THE IRATI FOREST

The Irati Forest is the second largest and best- preserved beech and fir forest in Europe, an immense green mantle of some 17,000 hectares that is still in an almost unspoiled state. Standing among the western Pyrenees, the Forest is accessed from picturesque villages and several protected areas.

MUSEUMS

The area has several museums ranging from Classic Art, Contemporary Art, Science and Gastronomy. Some of these museums are in walking distance and some of them would be close enough to drive to. http://bit.ly/NavarraMuseums

MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANTS

In and around Pamplona you can find mouthwatering food. In fact, a few restaurant sobtained their Michelin stars and other acknowledgements. Restaurants such as ; Rodero, Europa or El Molino de Urdaniz show the quality of the gastronomy, and will satisfy even the most refined palates.

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SANTA MARÍA LA REAL CATHEDRAL DON’T MISS

This Cathedral is one of Pamplona’s architectural Gothic gems, which was built in 14th-15th century. Behind its sober Neoclassical façade are the tomb of King Charles III and his wife Leonor, and a cloister that is considered one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the world. The bell known as “María” is the second largest bell in Spain. Hours to visit: 10:30 am - 7:00 pm (Monday - Saturday)

PLAZA DEL CASTILLO

The stage for main events in the city and a popular meeting place for locals. For more than two centuries, this irregular quadrilateral Plaza has heldmarkets, tournaments, political demonstrations, military parades and, until 1844, bullfights. It is surrounded by the balconies of houses dating from the 18th century, and numerous cafes and bar patios line its perimeter.

HISTORIC CENTER

The heart of the city, in which are located the most important monuments of the city. A good place to walk without vehicles around, and to enjoy a beautiful medieval structure through the streets. It is also a leisure and commerce area, the perfect place to go shopping or discover a nice place to eat tasty food.

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A beautiful viewpoint, from which Mount San Cristóbal and the districts of La Rochapea, San Jorge and La Chantrea can all be seen, lies on the very edge of the city walls at the highest point of the Bastion of El Redín. RINCÓN DEL CABALLO BLANCO

PARQUE DE LATACONERA

The oldest park in the city (1850) and one of its most emblematic, because of its beautiful gardens and its statues, which constantly surprise passers-by. The Ravelin of San Roque and, above all, the Bastion of La Taconera are both noteworthy features of the city walls found in the park.

Photography: Elena Aranda Vázquez

CIUDADELA

This enclosure is one of the most important defensive complexes in Europe. A pleasant walk through the gardens it houses, from the Gate of El Socorro on Vuelta del Castillo to Avenida del Ejército, offers the chance to discover the gardens and exhibitions held in its buildings. Not be missed. Hours tovisit: 7:30am- 9:30pm(Monday - Friday)

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Photography: Elena Aranda Vázquez

NAVARRA TRADITIONS

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POPULAR FIESTAS

1 The day of the “Almadía” of Burgui. Every spring a group of “almadieros” sail a section of the Esca River in unusual rafts created with trunks. Music, local dances, delicious food and other activities complement this festivity.

2 Witches “Akelarre” Sabbath. After the Summer Solstice, there is a festivity in Zugarramurdi, which combines; Celtic culture, witchcraft and the church. All these celebrations amalgamated with tasty food, dances and cultural exchange.

3 The Descent of the Witch. The last week of August in Vidángoz, the toy-witch Maruxa recreates the legendary foundation of the village, walking around and playing with visitors and locals.

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GASTRONOMY & WINERIES

4 Every day is a good day for food in Pamplona, and there are several culinary festivals during the year. For example, Tudela with its 4 days of exaltation of vegetables. The village offers a delicious degustation of traditional products, complemented by shows, cultural performances, round tables, and the local liquor made of sloe berries “pacharán”. It takes place the last week of April and first of May.

http://www.turismo.navarra.es/eng/mapa-

5 Visit a communal winery “Vinos de Calidad” where a group of artisan and experts combine their know-how to create wines with very distinct essence and taste. This place combines tradition and modernism.

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

6 Roman village of Ramalete, Tudela. Area with spectacular mosaics from the IV century, plus the remains of some thermal baths along with other antiquities and monuments. Not to be missed.

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7 Javieradas. March 3 - March 10. Thousands make a pilgrimage hiking or walking more than 30 miles to one special castle every year practicing their faith and enjoying attractions on the road. This is a tradition from the nineteenth century honoring their protector, Saint Francisco Javier.

8 Navarra Romanesque art. Architectural manifestations are present everywhere. Buildings that date back from the fifth century and comprised a group of castles, monasteries, churches and other buildings, enriching the scenery and history of Navarra.

http://www.turismo.navarra.es/eng/mapa- buscador/recursos.aspx?tipoBuscador=eoc

St. Mary de Eunate by Albert Torelló / CC

SPORTS

9 Los Arcos, also known as “Circuito de Navarra”. Unique infrastructure for motorsport fans in the north of Spain, which has several World and European exhibitions and competitions during the year for car and bike racing.

http://www.circuitodenavarra.com/en/

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ESSENTIALS BEFORE YOU GO

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DOCUMENTATION

• Check theexpirationdateof your passport, if it iswithin 6 months of expiration; consult with the consulate whether it needs to be renewed before you travel. • Generally, US citizens do not need a visa if their stay is less than 90 days. Please be sure to confirm with Spain’s Embassy or Consulates. • If you are planning to drive, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP), which can be issued by either AAA (online) or AATA (by mail). • Consult travel insurance companies and get a plan that covers your time and planned activities in Spain. • Scan your passport and keep a copy in a place that is easy to access for you while abroad (pen drive, cellphone, cloud service) • Make sure you have fulfilled the airlines’ requirements for luggage in advance. • If you are traveling with your pet, check if they comply with applicable health records and requirements. • Makesureyouprintout theaddress for yourfirstnight’s accommodation and keep it in your carry-on luggage. • Airline apps work most of the time to scan yourself through the boarding gates, but just in case your battery dies or the app malfunctions print a copy of your boarding cards. • Keepananalog copyof your important contacts inyour wallet. That way, if something goes wrong and you cannot access your phone, you can still get in touch. • It is hard to generalize but we recommend our visitors carry at least 100 euros in cash per person to cover meals out and other incidentals for a day. PRE-BOARDING INFORMATION

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OTHER USEFUL INFORMATION

• Spain uses the standard European two-pin rounded plugs and the voltage is 220V. Bring an adapter to fit the plug and a converter if your device is not dual-voltage. • You must be 21 to rent a car. There are no maximum age restrictions. • Contact your bank in advance to ensure that your credit and/or debit cards are activated for travel to Spain. • Contact your cell phone provider to ensure your phone is enabled and/or unlocked for international travel. Depending on the amount of days you will be traveling, you might consider acquiring cellphone service from a provider in Spain. Spain Renfe Pass: This high-speed train pass allows the bearer to travel around Spain in a very flexible and inexpensive way. Customers can choose passes of 4, 6, 8 or 10 journeys, to be used within 1 month, and you can buy it 6 months in advanced. It is valid for all AVE Long Distance and Medium Distance trains. It includes additional discounts on museums and other tourism products. You must remember to reserve each leg of your trip online or at the station to ensure you have a seat! Some cities in Spain sell passes to use unlimited public transportation for a specified time in the city and surroundings, therefore if you are interested, check availability.