Karla is an avant-garde and entertaining teacher. Her enthusiasm is contagious and makes learning an absolute pleasure.
I would definitely recommend Karla Darocas’s lectures and books to others.
– Pamela Joy Pierrepont, Sagra
REVIEW - Portraits of Clotilde by Sorolla
REVIEW - Jávea Walk
I first heard about SpainLifestyle.com and Karla Darocas at a Costa Blanca North coffee morning. I took part in the Historical Javea Walking Tour and really enjoyed learning about my new hometown. Understanding its history, culture, artists, and architecture was a wonderful experience.
I particularly appreciated Karla’s experience and knowledge of architecture through the ages, which made the tour even more engaging.
I would definitely recommend Karla’s teaching and books to others.
– Andrea Bullivant, Javea
REVIEW - Portraits of Clotilde by Sorolla
The lecture felt like both a love story and a journey through the development of his art, which made it deeply engaging. We learned a great deal about Sorolla’s painting style and how it was influenced by both traditional Spanish painters like Velázquez and the French Impressionist movement that was emerging at the time. I also really enjoyed discovering more about the fashion of the era. Highly recommended!
Karla’s teaching style was very engaging, with plenty of intriguing asides about fashion and society that added depth and context to the topic. I would definitely recommend Karla Darocas’ lectures and books to others.
- Christine Wood, Jávea
REVIEW - Jávea Historical Walk
"I recently joined the Javea Walk with my husband because, even though we’ve been coming to Jávea for years, we didn’t really know much about its history or the beautiful buildings. After today, my husband and I now walk through this place completely differently. You start to see so many more things you didn’t know about before, which makes the experience really special.
What stood out most was Karla’s teaching style. She tells a lot, and she does it with so much passion that it really draws you in. It makes learning about the history and architecture feel alive and memorable.
Would I recommend Karla Darocas’s teaching and books to others? Yesssss!"
Brigitte de Groot – Jávea
REVIEW - Javea Historical Walk
"I wish to review the *Javea Historical Walk*. Myself and my husband, along with two other couples, recently took Karla's Saturday morning walk. The booking, confirmation, and correspondence were very efficient, and the walk was conducted in English, lasting approximately three hours.
When asked what I learned and if anything unique stood out, I can say that the small size of the group encouraged discussion, and Karla's extensive historical and architectural knowledge, together with her enthusiasm, led to a fascinating morning of discovery and a new outlook on streets that we have walked many times. It was a pleasure to spend the morning together, and we wish her continued success. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.
As for Karla's teaching style, I found it to be delivered in a unique and engaging manner.
If asked whether I would recommend Karla Darocas’ teaching and I would definitely recommend the historical walk."
- Anna Palejowska-Gregory – Javea/UK
REVIEW. Jávea Walk
The class I want to review is Jávea Architectural and Historical Adventure. I took it because I wanted to know more about Javea, and this class absolutely fit the bill for me. It’s hard to say what I didn’t learn—there was so much fascinating information about the building features and the history attached to each one. The experience definitely makes you want to return to the old town and look at the buildings again with fresh eyes.
What stood out most for me was the way Karla encouraged questioning, which really helped me remember things I might have otherwise forgotten. The delivery of the information was not only fun but also so enthusiastic, which made it all the more engaging. I found the Church of San Bartolomé to be the most impressive building, and I was completely blown away by the intricacy of the artwork on the statues. I also highly recommend buying the books that accompany the tour, as they open up the history and architecture even more.
What I liked most about Karla’s teaching style was her delivery. It was amusing, lighthearted, and yet very informative at the same time. Would I recommend Karla Darocas’s teaching and books to others? Absolutely.
- Vanessa Campbell (UK/Javea)
REVIEW * SOROLLA: Into the Light
Recently I attended her lecture called *SOROLLA: Into the Light*. It was a nice immersion into the painter’s artwork and his unique painting techniques.
Karla sets a very friendly, family-like atmosphere in her studio. Her classes are interesting, informative, and engaging!
During this 90-minute class I not only discovered the artist’s style but also the biography of the painter, the history of the time he lived in, and the influence of it on his artwork. I love the thought-provoking questions Karla inspires as you connect on a deeper level with the art. On top of that, I also learned about current exhibitions in other cities.
I also recommend Karla’s historical walking tour of Javea. It was fantastic!
-Tetyana Neeley, Dénia, Spain
REVIEW - Sorolla. Into the Light
REVIEW "I met Karla Ingleton Darocas at a Costa Women's Coffee Morning. Myself plus 3 others attended her lecture on Sorolla. We really enjoyed her friendly presentation. I loved her passion for the subject together with an infectious humour of delivery. I learned about many aspects of Sorolla's techniques. I will be recommending her lectures. I am also looking forward to reading her book about Clotilde, Sorolla's wife."
- Warm Regards. Patricia - Denia
Letter of Appreciation
Dear Karla,
I first discovered SpainLifestyle.com and your work through the internet, and it immediately caught my attention. Your classes and walks, particularly those on Velazquez, the Javea Walk, and the architecture of Madrid, have been so enriching.
As someone deeply interested in the artists, art, and history of Spain, I’ve found your teaching and writing incredibly engaging. What truly stands out is the way you weave in background details that bring the topics to life. It’s clear you have a genuine passion for the subjects you cover, and it’s contagious!
I especially appreciate your casual style of talking—it’s both enjoyable and informative, with just the right amount of humor to make learning fun. You have a knack for creating a relaxed atmosphere while still delivering a wealth of knowledge.
I would absolutely recommend your classes and books to others. They’re a perfect blend of education and entertainment, and I’m grateful for the insights I’ve gained through your work.
Best regards,
Angelique Bartstra
Javea
Letter of Appreciation
My name is Veerle Vermoesen, and I live in Javea. I absolutely love Karla Darocas’ teaching and writing style. I really appreciate the small group setting, the abundance of images from the paintings, and the fascinating background stories about the painters' lives. The Picasso lecture was a real eye-opener for me, and I’ve enjoyed the combination of movies, museum visits, and learning experiences.
Since I live half the year in Spain, I’m always looking for ways to deepen my understanding of Spanish art and history. I’d love to hear more lectures about Sorolla and so many other topics.
I highly recommend Karla Darocas’ teaching and books to others—they’re incredibly insightful and engaging.
Veerle Vermoese - Jávea
Book Review by Floradiana Santiago
Set on a remote island, "Echoes of an Island" captures the essence of survival, resilience, and community spirit.
Karla's writing shines with authentic dialogue that draws readers into the narrative. The characters are vividly depicted, making their personalities and struggles feel real and relatable.
The story takes a dark turn with a shocking scene that underscores the island's lack of medical facilities, adding urgency and desperation. The pain and suffering are palpable, especially when Elsie is attacked, with Karla’s descriptive prowess making readers almost feel the excruciating pain and panic.
Karla's characters exemplify ingenuity and resourcefulness, emphasizing unity and cooperation in dire circumstances. Her ability to describe settings is exceptional, vividly painting the island's landscapes and environments, from dense jungles to tranquil beaches.
"Echoes of an Island" is a semi-fictional adventure based on real events. It is both thrilling and harrowing, showcasing the indomitable spirit of its characters. Despite intense and sometimes brutal events, the novel is accessible and engaging, keeping the reader hooked from beginning to end.
"Echoes of an Island" is ideal for those seeking a well-described, character-driven adventure.
Book Review by Trudi van Dorp
The setting couldn't be more exciting and romantic. Traveling from cold Canada to the warm and tropical Caribbean in the spring of 1973, 12-year-old Jean noted precious details of the long voyage and the following four-week stay on the islands of Santa Helena and Roatán.
This book is a must-read for everyone who loves the area. In 1973, the resorts were hardly there, but expectations of a diving school, tourists to attract, and business to be made were in the air.
Jean and her father, uncle, and grandparents stay on this practically untouched beautiful island to encounter the original population with their culture, language, and cuisine. The ambiance is of an original society with their own rules for order and punishment. It is a discovery trip for the group while working and enjoying the tropical environment.
The poetic language in this book contributes to the atmosphere of the holiday. Wonderful landscapes, descriptions of views, boat trips, visits to the village, and new experiences for Jean, who is fully present to observe and learn. The wise remarks of her grandmother, the teachings of her male family members, and the stories of the islanders help shape this young soul.
This is a book to obtain for lovers of travel stories, whether to dream away with as a visitor to Honduras and its environment or snuggled in an armchair with a crackling fire during winter nights, imagining a worry-less stay far, far away.
LECTURE REVIEW - FRIDA KAHLO
"It was interesting and enjoyable to listen to Karla's explanation of the striking work and life of the painter Kahlo. Karla has a relaxed way of explaining everything. I would recommend her."
- Regina Van der Laan
COURSE REVIEW - SALVADOR DALÍ
"Excellent course! Top-class teaching and a very welcoming atmosphere where everyone could feel safe and welcome. I signed up partly because art is interesting and inspiring, and to meet new people. I received much more than I signed up for. Highly recommended!
What features did I like about Karla's teaching style? Her enthusiasm.
Would you recommend Karla Darocas' teaching? Yes.
- Janni Warrer Hansen"
COURSE REVIEW - SALVADOR DALÍ
"I did not appreciate the artwork of Dali, but now, oh my God, I look with different eyes! Karla is an amazing teacher with a beautiful presentation. I love to have more lectures; nutrition for my soul, really. What do I like about Karla's teaching style? Everything. "
- Veerle Vermoesen, Javea
COURSE REVIEW - SALVADOR DALÍ
"Salvador Dalí: Madman or Genius?
His paintings may appear chaotic and psychedelic to my untrained eye. Karla clearly explains his obsessions and phobias, which manifest as symbols within his artwork. As the 20th century's progressed, so did his creativity.
His obsession with Freud and finally adopting a scientific outlook changed his approach to his work. Karla is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, effectively conveying that passion to the class participants.
The lectures are enlightening and enjoyable. I highly recommend Karla's classes."
- Hilary Coward
BOOK REVIEW - Viva Collection. Volume One
Just like her other books, Karla has enhanced her narrative with exquisite photos from her personal collection, making them accessible to all readers.
Reading this book rekindled my interest in Spanish history and art, and I believe it will evoke the same curiosity in others, compelling them to witness it firsthand.
I'm truly impressed by the book; Karla's research is impeccable as always. The inclusion of personal details that you won't find in standard history books, such as information about the families of Spanish kings and nobles, the Roman and Muslim influences on Spanish culture, insights into artists and their families, and the connections between historical buildings and their ownership, all make for an extremely intriguing read. This information was entirely new to me, and it adds to the book's allure.
Overall, I find this to be a marvelous and successful book.
- Gina from Germany
BOOK REVIEW * VIVA * Volume #1
"The VIVA Spain book series by Karla Darocas has recently launched with Volume I, and it brings delightful news. This volume offers a captivating collection of stories about Spain, encompassing its rich culture, splendid art, awe-inspiring architecture, and the wonders of nature.
What sets these essays apart is the enthralling information carefully woven into each narrative. Even if you think you've experienced it all before, Karla manages to surprise you with intricate details and background insights that encourage a deeper exploration of the subject. An excellent example is the mesmerizing account of the visit to the Santiago de Uclés Monastery.
Through her writing, Karla takes you on a fascinating art history journey through various regions of Spain, akin to soaring in a helicopter, piquing your curiosity, and urging you to land and delve into these captivating locales.
Each story's tone is thoughtfully tailored to match its content. From the cheerful enthusiasm when discussing lemons in 'When Life in Spain Gives You Lemons' to the eloquent choice of words in the tale of Jusepe de Ribera and the painting of the Lady with the Beard, the stories effortlessly engage and captivate the reader.
Reading this book is an absolute pleasure, and it becomes a cherished companion to take along on your explorations to museums and places of interest, igniting the desire for action. Let's Go!"
- Trudi van Dorp, History teacher (Benitachell)
https://spanisharthistory.blogspot.com/2023/08/index-of-publications.html
LECTURE REVIEW - SOROLLA
"I live in Javea so of course I know of the artist Joaquín Sorolla and how he would come here to holiday with his family and I have visited the Sorolla museum in Madrid which is set in his former family home. When I saw that Karla was giving a lecture on Sorolla I didn’t hesitate to sign up as I wanted to learn more about him.
Karla told us about Sorolla’s early life, how he and his sister were orphaned at a young age and how he became interested in art at around the age of nine. I did not realize that he studied in both Rome and Paris before returning to Valencia to marry Clotilde Garcia del Castillo. I found this biography of him to be very interesting, it made me appreciate the man behind the artist.
Karla presented a slideshow of various works, both landscapes and portraits. I particularly liked his paintings of children - commissioned works of privileged children born in the upper classes and those less fortunate, as of physically disabled children bathing in the sea in Valencia, entitled Sad Inheritance. Of course, we also get to see his own children depicted in his works.
All this background information was particularly useful as I went with Karla to the Bancaja Foundation in Valencia for a Sorolla exhibition of some eighty-six of his paintings. It was wonderful to see the originals of those that I saw on the slideshow in Karla’s studio.
Karla has an in-depth knowledge of the art world and the painters and has a talent for sharing that knowledge in her talks in a relaxed way."
- Maggie from Javea
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