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COSTA DEL SOL ELCOME to the biggest Costa del Sol Success Special the Euro Weekly News has ever put together, featuring almost 60 companies currently thriving in an ever growing business community on the Costa del Sol. Business continues to boom in the region as entrepreneurs prove the deepest global recession and the economic crisis that followed, coupled with the uncertainty of Brexit, is well behind them and is no obstacle to their continued growth. Indeed they have made 2019 their year with a determined and positive attitude. Uncertainty may haunt other countries but businesspeople on the Costa del Sol continue to provide us with the certainty that they and their firms will drive growth for years to come. A crucial part of the Costa del Sol’s business landscape continues to be expatriate entrepreneurs whose risk taking continues to pay off, not only for them but the wider community. And this can be said for the Costas as a whole. These businesspeople have brought a work ethic to the table and combined it with a Spanish corporate approach. They are on to a successful formula. The latest employment data shows the number of people out of work in Malaga Province fell by 2,344 to 153,172 in March, a decline of about 1.5 per cent. Spain’s Labour Ministry said the two industries driving hiring were hospitality and construction, mainstays of not only the Costa del Sol economy but lead-

SUCCESS Firms are flourishing MALAGA: Cityscape bird’s-eye view. SUCCESS: Costa del Sol is home to an array of thriving businesses.

ers for expatriate communities. Hospitality in particular continues to draw in British customers. The Hosteltur industry association said the number of bookings made for Easter 2019 rose by 12 per cent compared to April 2018. The total number of tourism companies on the Costa del Sol rose by 0.2 per cent from the end of

2017 to the end of last year. There were a total of 13,159 firms employing 5.6 per cent more workers than in 2017, the Costa del Sol’s Tourism Board said. These businesses and others continue to cater to the more than 47,190 British people registered as residents on the Costa del Sol and the millions more who holiday here every year. The firms are bursting with positivity and a hunger to excel. We are delighted to provide a platform for these companies to reach our readers, and incredibly proud that so many businesses are doing so well on the Costa del Sol. Vivan los negocios en España!

BOUYANT BUSINESS: Companies continue to proposer on the Costa del Sol.

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Advertising Feature RDMC’S is a family-run business with many years of experience in the glazing, construction and steel industry. The business idea first came from Dan who wanted to start a glass manufacturing business making sealed units (double glazing) as back in the UK he was a line manager overseeing the making of such units. Dan started the business with his wife and parents-in-law in 2004 and Dan’s brother joined them not long after, so as the pair had grown with their father who owned a window and door manufacturers it wasn’t long until the company expanded. First they changed locations from a small unit to a double sized factory and bought a toughening machine to produce glass for all requirements, then they gained the distribution and manufacturing rights of Sunflex glass curtains and started their own in-house stainless steel welding and manufacture. Lastly they started manufacturing windows and doors, something Dan was extremely familiar with. They soon went from a small family-run business

RDMC’S - The supplier of glass curtains

STUNNING: RDMC’s will make your home look superb. to a much larger operation employing many specialists in their fields to manufacture and install. They are specialist manufacturers of glass curtains, stainless steel, UPVC & aluminium, bifolds, windows and doors and pool surrounds. They use only the highest quality materials including 316 marine grade stainless steel so

as not to cause corrosion problems. They have their own glass toughening plant which means that the complete glass curtain system, including the glass, is manufactured under one roof. They also do roofs fixed or sliding (electric or manual), and complete steel structures. In addition, RDMC’s produces

acoustic glass for bars, mirrors, table tops, sealed units, splash backs, shop fronts, shelves, walk on glass, stairs, glass balustrade, pool surrounds, in fact they can assist you with all your glass needs. They also produce bi-fold doors and a system called Openmax which is new to the market and a video explaining this system is available upon request. The glass curtain system Sunflex that they manufacture is of typical German design, much time and thought has gone into the system making it one of, if not, the best system available on the market today. The technique is completely different to other systems that are of similar price as it is top hung, which means the weight of the glass is distributed evenly and not all sitting on the bottom rubbing metal against metal.

FACTORY: The glass specialists manufacture their own products. Check out their Facebook page for regular updates on installations or for any information please email them on rdmcsglass@hotmail.com or call 952 477 963, 677 712 742 Opening hours Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm RDMC’S: Pol Ind El Cañadon, Nave 16 & 18, Km2, Camino De Coin Mijas Costa, Malaga, 29650

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Advertising Feature

Olivia’s the taste of success W

HILST many people wrongly assume that Elliott Wright, owner of Olivia’s entertainment restaurant in La Cala de Mijas is an amateur who built on his TV fame, nothing could actually be further from the truth. In fact his grandfather owned a number of pubs in the East End in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s which were run by his father Eddie and his brothers gaining a reputation for being great places to have fun. When Eddie decided to move to the Costa Blanca in 2001 to open up the first of a number of very popular restaurants there, Elliott who was working as a stockbroker in the City of London also decided it was time for a change. He opened his first restaurant in Spain in that year and since then has been heavily involved in running popular restaurants and still owns the award-winning Eduardo’s in Villamartin which continues to be a great draw with local residents and tourists alike. Father Eddie had always dreamed of owning a restaurant on the Costa del Sol and when Elliott’s uncle, Dave Wright of HomeFinders (the estate agents in La Cala) called him telling him “there is an empty restaurant in an ideal location and although it may be a risk, it could be the ideal option for someone as hungry as you,” he was intrigued. When Elliott visited the derelict building on the beach at La Cala, a 25-minute drive away from the perceived glamour of Marbella and Puerto

Banus, he could see that this was going to be a massive gamble if he was to take it over. Having gained a great deal of publicity by appearing in the TV series The Only Way Is Essex and having plenty of confidence in his own abilities, Elliott decided that the €4.5 million speculation was worth taking, especially as he was convinced that people would travel to enjoy a well-run and fun establishment which offered great food, drink and entertainment. Four years on and despite all of the malicious and bitter people who wanted to see him fail, the complete opposite has occurred and with 50,000 guests last year, Olivia’s has really put La Cala on the international map and generated a lot of interest in this ever-expanding town. Having got it right, Elliott has no intentions of sitting back and letting things get stale and when he first opened, to some extent he let the chefs decide the menu, but he always wanted to change up a gear and this is exactly what he has done for the 2019 season which is now well and truly underway. Working with his new head chef, he has increased the choice of fish dishes on offer and rather than obtain supplies from wholesalers, the pair of them visit the Subastas (fish auctions) in Fuengirola and Malaga where they bid for fish that has just been landed and now he can proudly boast that his fish goes from the boat to the plate in less than 12 hours.

ELLIOTT WRIGHT: Owner of the popular entertainment restaurant.

CALMING COLOURS: Giving the impression you are on the beach.

OLIVIA’S: Has a 180º panoramic view of the seafront. There is a large menu but with a kitchen brigade of 24 and the ability to seat up to 350 people, both inside and outside on the large comfortable terrace it is important to be able to ensure that all culinary needs are met and of course the Champagne, wine and cocktail list is exceptional with a good selection of non-alcoholic drinks available as well.

Olivia’s is a modern version of Eduardo’s with the emphasis on fun and entertainment. It has three bars, one inside near to the stage, the Champagne bar on the first floor and the recently renamed Elliott’s Gin Palace (having called the restaurant Olivia’s after his daughter, Elliott decided it would keep his son happy to name the outside

bar after him). When you arrive at Olivia’s, which has a 180º panoramic view of the seafront, you will be delighted by the calm and effective colours which have been deliberately chosen to reflect the sand and the sea to give the impression that you are actually on the beach. This is a very popular venue for groups of ladies as it is a safe and pleasant environment with live music and DJs seven nights a week as well as dancers, acrobats and even fire eaters on certain nights. The first of the summer White Ice Parties sold out and there will be a similar party every other Thursday hosted by the Masquerade Duo until October and guests can look forward to regular appearances from Elliott’s great friend James Argent as well as other top acts from the UK. The beginning of the year has passed in something of a haze and long-time partner and now wife, Sadie gave birth to the couple’s first son William (known as Little Billy) and according to Elliott, Sadie is a natural mother who copes wonderfully, although admits that 10 years on from his first child, things are a little more tiring. The summer season started before Easter and there is no doubt that Olivia’s continues to grow, having becoming exceptionally popular whilst some other venues have disappeared.

To make a reservation or just to find out what is going on, visit http://www.oliviaslacala.com/, call 952 494 935 or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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Advertising Feature

HE decision has been made, the sale has gone through and now it is time to move home. What should be a truly exciting time can also be a stressful one and a lot of hassle too. On the Costa del Sol one of the biggest success stories is Union Jack Removals. When it comes to picking the right removals company, they tick all the boxes. Based in Spain and the UK, Union Jack has been helping people achieve their Spanish dream for over 40 years. It is a proven company, a name you can trust. But that is not all. They have extensive experience of providing reliable, trustworthy and affordable moving services throughout the UK, France, Portugal, Switzerland and Italy too. So, whether you

Make your move a good success

FREE QUOTE: JACK is only too happy to help.

Vehicles Motorcycles and cars can also be transported. Storage facilities They have safe secure storage in Spain that houses individual storage containers for your goods. This is mirrored in their Northern and Southern storage facilities in UK. Moving within Spain, to Europe or further afield they are ready to take your call. PS: Don’t forget they also have a Defra Authorised Pet Transport section to the business so can provide a complete package.

are moving within Spain or much further afield, Union Jack Removals should be your first port of call. And it doesn’t matter how big or small your job is, they can handle it with their modern fleet of vehicles. Whether you need one box sent or your whole home, Union Jack can handle it. They pride them-

selves on personal service, speaking to people and then confirming by email. Getting to know one’s customer is a priority to help with their requirements. Lorena and Belen in the office are happy to talk over your needs. They will arrange for Jack or Kevin to visit for a free quote over a cup of coffee (the boss only drinks hot water!!).

First Class Service for Pets W

HEN moving abroad a very important consideration for many people is how to move their pets. Union Jack Pet Transport understands the need for a safe, comfortable and as stress-free an environment as possible for our furry friends when making long journeys. They offer a friendly, personal and caring service. Lorena or Jill will talk you through all the requirements to transport, check the paper work to make sure that everything is in order for your pets to travel, answer any questions you may have, however small please just ask.

Obviously, you want your pets to be in safe hands and cared for properly on their journey. Look no further. They are Defra authorised and hold an Animal Welfare type 2 certificate which enables them to carry your pets legally on long journeys (please beware there are many unauthorised advertisers claiming to be Pet Transporters who don’t hold this certificate). They take the greatest care to ensure your pet is taken care of in every way. Your animal’s comfort is very much a priority. Union Jack understands that moving house or relocating can be a stressful time for

HAPPY CUSTOMERS: There are plenty of testimonials.

HAPPY PETS: Union Jack have the expertise to look after your furry friends!

people and their pets, so they have made it their mission to take the worry and stress out of the situation. You can be sure that your pets will get the best care and treatment, so you don’t have to worry. And you don’t have to take their word for it-

they have numerous testimonials from satisfied customers delighted with the service offered. Their last Pet Transport covered Spain to France, Italy, Switzerland, England, Scotland and Ireland - all delivered safely and happy. Call them. They are first class, 902 109 560.

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Stand becoming a success RISKY: Getting to the top needs nerve.

WHAT sets a successful entrepreneur apart from the crowd? Many people try to turn a passion or a hobby into a business success. This can be fine, but so many potential entrepreneurs fail to understand that running the financial and legal sides of a real life business is so very different from being in love with cooking, cars, clothes or whatever the passion was which created the inspiration to go it alone. Cash flow, or lack of, is the number one killer of many business dreams. Official figures suggesting around 80-90 per cent of small businesses fail because of poor cash flow. Cash is king in the modern business world and always has been. When the cash

isn’t there, due to late payments, unexpected costs or just insufficient initial investment, business survival is almost impossible. Not understanding the competition is another cause of early failure. You may think you can provide the best food, the best dresses, or best gym, but how do you persuade new customers to come and see you rather than the people they already use? And business is all about people. So many new businesses focus so much on their product that they forget the importance of selling themselves. Small and micro businesses especially rely on a personal relationship with the customer. If you’re thinking of opening a coffee shop as an example, will your potential customers really come in for a hot drink and a bite to eat, or are they coming in because they feel really welcomed by you and your staff? International food chain Pret a Manger say that the staff teams in their shops are the backbone of what they do. To Pret, people are one of

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their most important ingredients. They look for workers with passion. Where would you go for coffee? A place with someone serving you who quite obviously doesn’t really want to be there, or a place where the staff are fun, happy and doing all they can to make you feel good too? So simple to answer, yet so many new businesses get it so wrong. Once you’ve got the staff right, being an entrepreneur requires an element of risk taking, something not that well promoted in Europe. In the USA, some leading business minds say in order to succeed in business you may need to first fail in business. Being an entrepreneur is a lonely road and isn’t the road which most people are able to handle. That hard-faced business person you work for may look as if they are focused solely on profit. But often they have your interests at heart, worrying at night about company survival and how to pay the bills which include the salary your family relies on.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. Winston Churchill

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Advertising Feature

German made with Scandinavian flavours

IRST established more than 20 years ago by a Danish entrepreneur, Cocinas Plus, the first word in kitchen specialists was taken over by Ian Taylor in 2010 and has gone from strength to strength. Now employing some 30 staff who are involved in all aspects of the business, Cocinas Plus has two spacious showrooms in the centre of La Cala de Mijas and the Golden Mile in Marbella. Apart from the fact that a new kitchen makes for a better home life, there is no doubt that good quality fittings can help sell a property, often at a higher price. With this in mind, Cocinas Plus concentrates on offering a full range of different styles manufactured in Germany by Nobilia and have recently added a further range from the

S part of its service to existing clients, the showrooms at Cocinas Plus in both La Cala de Mijas and Marbella have large departments stocked with the latest and best cookware. The concept of course is that if you have a brand new kitchen then it deserves to be stocked with the best accessories available on the coast. As technology expands and design becomes increasingly more important, so every kitchen will benefit from the latest advantages, although that’s not to suggest that tried and trusted brands are not also important. At the recently introduced cookware shop in the La Cala showroom which is on the first floor, the most exciting options have now been added so

Rational company. The two showrooms offer a combined size of 1,400 square metres in which the latest kitchens are shown in situ, but their expert designers can show customers a whole range of different options held on computer and will be more than happy to produce 3d plans of the kitchen to fit in your property. Naturally, their designers are happy to visit your home to discuss your needs and offer a cost effective solution to whatever may be required and with their large fleet of vehicles they can

LA CALA DE MIJAS: The sales team are thoroughly professional.

MARBELLA: Multilingual staff will deal with your expectations.

Both stores are open Monday to Friday from 10am to 7pm and Saturday from 10am to 2pm. To find out more visit their website www.cocinasplus.com or go to either of their modern and bright showrooms where parking is generally easy close by. Bulevar de La Cala, 1,2 9649 Mijas Costa, 952 587 759. Edificio Casablanca, Bulevar Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, 29602 Marbella, 952 764 595.

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be with you in no time at all. All quotes will include everything needed including white goods and cookers and in many cases you can have the kitchen of your dreams supplied and fitted in six to eight weeks. You can be assured that you will receive a thoroughly professional service from start to finish as the combined skills of so many specialists ensures that nothing is overlooked and with a five-year guarantee and an experienced support staff available even after the fitting has been completed all will go smoothly. This is a modern company offering high quality design at sensible prices and there is an option to discuss the possibility of financial assistance to pay for your new kitchen in monthly instalments through a special arrangement between Cocinas Plus and Santander (subject of course to status). There is no language problem as their multilingual staff can speak English, French, German, Russian, Spanish and most of the Scandinavian idioms so you can approach the company assured your needs and expectations will be understood.

A new kitchen deserves quality cookware that the choice is superb. One of the iconic brands stocked is the perennial favourite Le Creuset, which has been making colourfully-enamelled cast-iron cookware for nearly 100 years and has a reputation for producing some of the longest lasting saucepans and casseroles on the market. That’s just one of more than 20 top names offering everything that could possibly be needed to ensure that every meal in your new kitchen is a success. Interestingly, there

are some very famous names from the world of design who have moved into the production of kitchen accessories and one of the most famous is perhaps Casa Bugatti, renowned for some of the world’s most expensive cars and indeed antique furniture.

Each Bugatti piece offers exclusivity, practicality and longevity which will add functionality and style to your home and Cocinas Plus has put together a core collection of Casa Bugatti cookware including the exquisite Bugatti Leather collection.

ACCESSORIES: The two stores are stocked with the latest and best cookware. Another recognisable name is Peugeot reputed to be the oldest producer of mills for coffee, pepper, salt and spices which has been in business since 1810, although due to a family split in the early 20th century,

If you can’t immediately get to the showrooms then visit the specially created cookware website at www.cocinasplus.es and even if you aren’t an existing kitchen client you will still be very welcome to explore the collection.

one half kept the mills and the other half started producing cars. Whatever your needs, you can be assured that they will be looked after at either showroom with plenty of goods available from other great manufacturers such as Smeg, WMF, Cristel, Kai and Wüsthof to name a few.

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Advertising Feature

Legal services going from strength to strength

AWBIRD LEGAL SERVICES first started around 2005 with eight staff and was set up by Antonio Flores and his brother Inigo; they currently employ around 20 people. Both Antonio and Inigo started their lives in Andalucia, later studying in Madrid, but once Antonio had gained his law degree he wanted to return to Andalucia, and start his career in and around Marbella. Antonio originally went to work for an English Barrister in 1996 dealing with the expat community but quickly realised the needs for an English-speaking Lawyer representing expats in need; subsequently Lawbird was born. Antonio and Inigo quickly recognised a gap in the mar-

Lawbird focuses on the protection of expats in legal matters. ket and started to develop an online service to all foreign clients communicating in their own mother tongue. In 2014 Gary Newsham joined the company with a view to rebranding and marketing the services to clients of realtors and developers along the coast. Since then the business has gone from strength to strength becoming more recognised, now communicating in English, Spanish, French, German, Flemish, Norwegian, Danish, Swedish and Arabic in sev-

eral dialects. Lawbird focuses on the protection of expats in all legal and financial matters (litigation included), as well as assisting property buyers who are in need of a conveyance service, with many local realtors and developers recommending the services of Lawbird. With Lawbird’ s modern and newly facelifted offices in the centre of Marbella, they have created a comfortable environment with four new board/meeting rooms to assist and ensure clients are dealt with rapidly. Over the last 15 years Antonio Flores and Lawbird have come highly recommended, the EWN group would have no hesitation in recommending their services. See our advert on the opposite page.

ANTONIO FLORES: Comes highly recommended.

Rising stars

THINK: A little planning goes a long way.

Be efficient… I

N order to make a success of yourself in life as well as business there are some strategies which can help you. While many of us like to rest and relax, there is little doubt that becoming more efficient and helps you create time to enjoy. Here are some tips on making the best of your time: Make the most of your time. Take a few moments in the morning to look at the day ahead. There will always be periods when you’re not doing anything, even if

it’s just five minutes waiting for a bus or an appointment. Plan your day in advance in order to exploit this dead time into something useful. Be prepared. Make sure you have the resources you need on hand to efficiently complete tasks. Using gadgets and applications in the cloud allows you to access information and documents you need more quickly. The cost of saying ‘yes.’ Before you accept a commitment, take a minute to think about what you’re agreeing to. Is it worth it?

GREAT IDEA: Thato Kgatlhanye with her solar powered school bags.

HILE for many years business was not always associated with philanthropy, a new wave of ethical companies breaking onto the world’s stage have showed it is possible to combine success with heart. Based all around the world there are a host of businesses making prof-

its whilst giving back to some of the most vulnerable people in their countries, including children and the homeless. These include Bombas, a United States-based business which sells socks. For every pair purchased, it donates another pair to a homeless shelter, and has given away more than 11 million pairs to more than

1,700 shelters, becoming one of the country’s rising design stars. Thato Kgatlhanye, a South African businesswoman, has found a way to improve conditions for local children. The entrepreneur created school bags which use solar energy to light up at night, so children living in rural areas without electricity can study at night.

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F success is measured by the amount of money an individual is worth, then Amancio Ortega stands head and shoulders above the other 24 billionaires in Spain with a fortune estimated at €62 billion. It is difficult to be accurate as so much depends upon stock valuation which can change on an hour to hour basis, but there appears to be a general agreement that the founder of Inditex, owner of Zara and many other clothing stores is near the top of the wealth list. The majority of the wealthiest men in the world are American citizens, but Ortega generally appears in the top five whenever a list appears, and on occasions he has been considered the wealthiest of all when the share prices of Amazon, Microsoft and other major stocks take a dip. Intensely private, the Spanish octogenarian entrepreneur does not give interviews nor does he pose for photographs, but prefers to live a quiet life away from

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Spain has 25 billionaires and six are women Credit: Simon Q flickr

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the limelight and nowadays appears to be more interested in philanthropy than business. Sandra Ortega Mera, his daughter from his first marriage, is the second wealthiest person in Spain with a personal fortune estimated at €6 billion thanks to her inheritance of 7 per cent of Inditex following her mother’s death. In a ranking of billionaires, Spain comes 19th, surprisingly behind Australia, Brazil and Turkey, but considering the huge division between the rich and poor in Spain following the Civil War, it is clearly possible for individuals such as Ortega and Mercadona boss Juan Roig to create success from modest backgrounds.

“ INDITEX: A huge empire from a humble start.

The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and the determination that whether we win or lose, we have applied the best of ourselves to the task at hand. Vince Lombardi

Advertising Feature

ECURITY OF SPAIN has been providing quality, dependable service on the Costa del Sol since 2004. Known and trusted throughout the area, this team of English-speaking experts may not wear capes but they certainly carry out super hero work; helping people feel safer in their homes. With more than 34 years’ experience as a locksmith, owner Daren Whitby has worked in some of the world’s securest locations - including the Tower of London - and is the only British expert on the Costa del Sol who can work with highest-security safes. During his career in the UK, Daren spent more than 18 years working for approved Master Locksmith’s Association companies throughout London and the south of England. Since moving to the Costa del Sol 15 years ago, Daren has brought this same commitment, professionalism and integrity to his work in Spain. He now collaborates with highly respected businesses including alarm companies, community presi-

24-hour care you can trust dents, holiday letting agents, and individual clients. Security of Spain’s team and fleet of three fullystocked vehicles ensure they are on hand day or night to help those in distress. Their genuine 365day call out means they will be there when you need them, even if that is on Christmas Day. Their specialist work includes 24-hour emergency service with English and Spanish-speaking

locksmiths, including key duplication services for homes, and businesses, hand cut keys, master key and key-suited systems. Daren and his team can also

THE TEAM: Are on hand day or night to help those in distress.

help get into even the highest-security safes if you have lost the key or code, and they work with high security cylinders and multipoint locking

Serving La Cala de Mijas, Marbella, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, and Estepona, including inland to Alhaurin, Coin and surrounding areas, Security of Spain is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm. Their engineers are also available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year on 0034 636 770 865 and 0034 667 668 673. For expert advice, visit Security of Spain at Local 4, Centro Commercial Jardin Botanico, Av Las Gardenias, La Cala Mijas, 29649, or call 0034 952 660 233.

systems. If you need a master key made for multiple doors or properties, Security of Spain can also help achieve this quickly and reasonably. The experts can also fit security alarms and CCTV cameras, ensuring you feel secure whether at home or away. The team even installs gates, rejas and grilles, automatic shutters for ease of use which have the option to be Alexa-controlled, as well as patio and window security locks. Security of Spain is on hand to offer free, helpful advice on home security and provides a no obligation security check of your property, as well as advice on all aspects of securing a home.

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Interview - Security of Spain - Daren Whitby

Interview with Security of Spain owner, Daren Whitby

hen did you start out as a locksmith? I began in London when I was 14 and have now been doing this for 34 years. My wife says I’m like a stick of rock - if you cut me in half it would say ‘locksmith’ down the middle! Have you had any unusual or high profile jobs? I have worked on many major contracts including the Millennium Dome and London Underground. In London I was security cleared to the highest level to work on locks at the Tower of London and I have even worked at Buckingham Palace. Why did you decide to come to Spain? We decided to move to Spain in 2004 to give

our family a better life and business quickly took off here. How soon did Security of Spain become a success here? I ran a mobile service for the first 12 years I was here, and as anyone who starts a business in Spain knows, it takes hard work to build a good reputation. In 2015 a few clients had been requesting that I opened a shop for key cutting, so I decided to give it a try. Thanks to my loyal customers, word of mouth and a lot of hard work, the business started growing. How quickly did you expand? After opening the shop, we began to ex-

pand even more quickly and soon had to open a bigger and more visible store where we still are today. We also hired another engineer and someone to help out in the shop as well as extending the number of vehicles. What do you think keeps customers coming back? We deal in trust and have a reputation which has earned us five-star reviews and constant recommendations. We always go the extra mile and take the time to offer the exact solution a client needs, even if that is simply free advice. The team at Security of Spain pride ourselves on being extremely honest and we know that if we

continue to charge a fair price and provide a good service, we will always have work. What services do you offer that set you apart? Few people know just how many things we can help them with. For example, we can make keys to fit a particular lock or even make locks for keys. This can really save time and money for large communities if they change their locks as everyone can keep their existing keys. We offer master key systems and key-suiting to businesses, communities and private homes. We also offer security camera systems, security gates and motorised

DAREN WHITBY: The expert locksmith has worked in some of the world’s securest locations. security shutters. How do you keep your prices so reasonable? Because we are so established, we can get big discounts from suppliers and we pass these savings on to customers. Our prices are always clearly laid out on paper so whatever time of day or night or whatever the service, clients always

know what they will be paying. Finally, do you have any news? Look out for our brand new sign written van, our graphics guys have made sure it is easier than ever to spot us as we work! Also see our advert for details of the new Security of Spain website.

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Advertising Feature

VISION: Relaxed and family-friendly.

F you want to enjoy good food served by friendly staff in a cosy atmosphere, then don’t look any further than The Hairy Lemon in Sotogrande Marina. Owners Liz and Lorenc Hunda moved permanently to Spain in 2011 after spending many years visiting Sotogrande with family. Their project began when approached to manage and improve The Hairy Lemon which had quickly gone into decline despite a promising opening the previous year. They both had experience in the industry and had always wanted to manage their own restaurant which had fuelled their decision to move to Spain. The business was mainly attracting regular male clientele and it was a traditional old English style. Gradually as they made changes to the menu, introduced new staff and worked tirelessly to build relations with local customers, it was possible for them to see a bright future and potential for the business. After two years working as management, they had the opportunity to buy the business and be able to make substantial changes and further investments into making improvements. The Hairy Lemon is continuing to evolve and grow year on year as the owners’ dedication has led to a thriving business. Their vision of owning a relaxed, family-friendly bar at the heart of the Sotogrande community has certainly been realised. The Hairy Lemon Bistro is an adjacent restaurant which was one of the biggest investments they made shortly after buying the business. When not being used by daily customers, it is used for private parties, meals

WELL STOCKED: Including all the usual favourites.

Relax and enjoy all that The Hairy Lemon can offer or special celebrations. It has a private bar, bathrooms and terrace area which lends itself perfectly to host any event. They offer buffet menus, canapes or personalised three-course meals for your party. It’s a lovely space for people to celebrate any occasion. Customers have tended to be mainly English and northern European, but there is an ever increasing Spanish clientele base as they have discovered the friendly atmosphere, the lovely Spanish staff and the great range of food available. Having undergone recent refurbishments transforming the interior of the bar, the owners are feeling positive about another exciting year ahead with the promise of a fun-filled busy summer. Open from 9am until 1am with food served continuously until midnight, seven days a week, you can enjoy a great range of breakfasts as well as lunch and dinner from the international menu. Their menu is full of freshly prepared and home-made dishes and tapas, such as the duck croquettas with orange alioli, or the pork belly with black

LIZ AND LORENC HUNDA: Industry professionals. pudding wontons. There are many lovely flavours and fusion dishes to try. Their eldest daughter has food allergies and they are very aware how this can affect your experience when eating out. They offer gluten and lactose free options (including tasty pizza, pasta and bread), so all members of the family will be able to find something suitable to enjoy. They also offer an independent vegan and vegetarian menu as they strive to accommodate all food intolerances and preferences. Inside the recently refurbished interior you will find a number of

comfortable seating areas, four TV screens which don’t intrude upon the ambience, but which are very popular when major sporting events take place. Unusually for the area, The Hairy Lemon is not located on a road, but has two large terrace areas set in delightful squares with the restaurant/bar sandwiched between them. It’s a lovely location overlooking fountains; a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the tranquillity of the area. Friday nights are usually fully booked so you do need to reserve in advance. Their delicious Sunday roasts are also really popular and are served

Find out more at their Facebook page, just visit them at the Plaza de Los Naranjos in Sotogrande port or take the chance to make a booking by calling 956 790 124 - you won’t be disappointed.

alongside the usual menu if one of your group prefers something lighter, such as fish or tapas. Add to this a mouth-watering selection of home-made desserts and booking for Sunday lunch is always recommended. As well as food, there is a notable selection of drinks of all types including some great cocktails, all the usual favourites plus the very popular Pink Thai (once drunk often re-ordered) available by the glass or in pitchers. They have an extensive range of lovely quality wines at very reasonable prices. They offer non-alcoholic spirits, cocktails and beers for those not wishing to drink alcohol. The infamous Brewdog beer has recently been introduced to complement the King of all Spanish beers Estrella Galicia which is pumped directly from 500-litre copper tanks located in the bar. The Hairy Lemon hosts many charity events which are so important within the community, such as the annual Santa fun run for children with cancer and quiz nights for the Manilva feed a child. Most recently, they started to host a monthly Play Together session in association with Buddy Up Manilva which brings young children and pensioners together to enjoy each other’s company in a creative fun environment. Sotogrande has something of a village feel and is no longer just a holiday destination. The Hairy Lemon is a warm place where new residents instantly feel very much at home. Customers become friends with their long-serving lovely staff managed by Alfonso and Antonio who work so hard to make sure your experience in the Lemon is a great one.

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CDS SUCCESS

PLD SPACE: Success beckons. A SPANISH start-up founded in 2011 by two scientists is getting ready to launch its first rocket later this year. PLD Space was the brain child of Raúl Torres and Raúl Verdú who now employ 40 people at their new building in Elche and they also have a rocket engine test facility at Teruel airport. The intention is that the company will produce reusable rockets to launch various packages into space in cooperation with the European Space Agency.

Reach for the stars They have obtained funding from the Spanish government, European Union and private sources and have so far raised more than €10 million which has allowed them to move from the drawing board to their first proper test launch. This test launch which will carry a payload from

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the German Centre of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity and is due to take place later this year from an experimental rocket launch site in Huelva. Assuming that this test is a success then they plan up to eight commercial flights a year starting in 2020 and are already

developing a more powerful rocket which will be capable of carrying heavier loads. This is a perfect example of how relatively young scientists can take advantage of modern technology and with the help of government funding create a whole new industry here in Spain.

As long as you keep going, you’ll keep getting better. And as you get better, you gain more confidence. That alone is success. Tamara Taylor

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What is success? SUCCESS is something which preoccupies many of us in various aspects of our lives; whether it’s making sure our finances are in shape, keeping our health in order, or climbing the rungs of promotion at work. For a businessman, for example, success might be viewed in terms of high profits, expansion, or longevity, whereas for an artist or athlete these traditional symbols of success might mean something different. The Oxford English Dictionary defines success both subjectively and objectively; as meaning both ‘the accomplishment of an aim’ or ‘the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status.’ Historically, however, some of the world’s most successful people achieved neither many of their own goals, nor recognition in their own lifetime, suggesting that success may be an even broader concept than previously thought. This list includes artist Johannes Vermeer, whose work was never commissioned by the nobility and who lived and died in debt. Vermeer’s most famous piece, The Girl with the Pearl Earring, is now thought to be worth hundreds of millions of Euros. Perhaps then, the safest definition of success is one which allows us to enjoy the lives we already lead rather than worrying too much about chasing what we could have.

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Advertising Feature

HE name Martyn Wood and Big M Promotions is synonymous with more than 37 years of entertaining young and old on the Costa del Sol and Axarquia. Having been a rock concert promoter and DJ on radio and in clubs around Yorkshire, Martyn became involved with an American major supplier of disco equipment. First of all he started installing this new technology and training DJs in its use in the UK and then things took off and he was spending more and more time around Europe. In those days, New York style discos were not really that big here in Spain, with many local people preferring Spanish music, but Martyn and wife Nessie (named after her aunt and also the fabulous creature which lives in the Loch in Scotland) were invited to the Costa in 1982 to establish a new disco over a three-month period in the Hotel Stella Polaris (including the renovation of the building). They loved the country and the lifestyle so much that they have been here ever since, and Martyn is proud of the fact that he learnt Spanish by watching Barrio Sesamo (Sesame Street) on TV because it was aimed at children with plenty of visual images and word repetition. Like so many British expatriates, their first venture after setting up the discotheque was to take over a restaurant, the first in Mijas Golf, following that up with two more in Fuengirola, but after a lot of enjoyable hard work, Martyn got the itch to return to radio and from there, he and Nessie opened the first English language TV station MITV (The Entertainment Channel) in Mijas in 1992, but as there was some question as to whether they had the correct papers for the station, it was incorporated into RTV340, the Mijas Council TV channel. For many years they were producing English language programmes for the station and then realised that with the increase in English tourists and inhabitants along the coast that there was a demand for English programmes, but many of the local stations couldn’t afford their own programmes. This was easily fixed and their production company, Smithwood Productions, made syndi-

Big M Promotions entertaining a generation

STAR ATTRACTION: Big M with Nile Rodgers.

SUCCESS: Big M brought the Faulty Towers Tour to the Costa del Sol. cated programmes which were then distributed free of charge to the various council channels until 1999. At that time, the couple believed that there was also a demand for corporate videos to promote a range of different products, and there was also an opportunity to shoot videos of private parties and events, so they moved away from TV into corporate video production. Having spent so long on radio and TV, Martyn had plenty of media contacts and, along with Nessie, were two of the founders of the International Costa Press Club that is still going strong today.

Visit the website to find out what is on and to buy tickets. All went well until the general recession in 2007 and the video market began to dry up, so a serendipitous meeting with some musician friends who wanted to find somewhere exciting to play led to Martyn organising his first concert in Spain and, after it turned out to be a complete sell out, the die was cast and Big M Promotions

was reborn 30 years after the last UK concert. Since then, Martyn has been involved in putting on different events across the region and these include up and coming local bands, bands and performers from the UK as well as tribute artists who continue to be popular. Most recently he organised the Faulty Towers tour which brought three exceptional actors from the UK who play Basil, Sybil and Manuel and they created a huge amount of amusement, mayhem and chaos to nine sold out restaurants along the coast. So successful was this visit that another is planned for later this year with additional restaurants on the waiting list to welcome the anarchic trio. Martyn is a rocker at heart and whilst in the UK helped to propel Yorkshire band Saxon into their first record contract and he would love to bring them over alongside heavy metal

band Girlschool, who were regularly supporting Motorhead on tours, and whose drummer Denise Dufort actually lives in Axarquia. It’s not all heavy rock as Martyn is a great fan of Chic and was delighted to be able to interview Nile Rodgers ahead of his first concert in Marbella, and to be invited to meet up with him when Chic played that year. Martyn also wears another hat as a regular DJ presenting ‘Boogie Nights’ dances, as DJ Big M playing New York Style Disco along with a Northern Soul DJ and a Motown DJ. As part of the service, he operates a website http://www.costadeldisco.com/ which not only gives details of the events that he is organising but also offers tickets for sale at other concerts which have been organised by Spanish promoters who don’t have the contact with the expatriate audience. As well as organising these different promotions, he is also a passionate promoter of up and coming local talent and is particularly excited by seven-piece Santana tribute, Jingo Experience who he believes are destined for great things. Another area has been his involvement with La Cala Live where he was commissioned in 2017 and 2018 to organise a series of free concerts in La Cala every Thursday night which allowed him to present a complete range of different local musicians with very varied musical styles and he loves to be part of the local community offering something for everyone. The only problem at the moment is not so much finding the performers but in finding suitable venues, although there are a number of possible new outlets likely to become available during the year. Be assured that if Big M Promotions through Costa Del Disco are involved in any event then it is likely to be a good one and keep visiting the website to find out what is on and to buy tickets.

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By Joe Gerrard STEPHEN KING is widely regarded as the master of the horror genre and is one of the most prolific writers of our time. The author has published 59 novels, five nonfiction books and has penned more than 200 short stories. But had it not being for an unconquerable tenacity in the face of tens of rejections, the world may never of heard of him. If King had taken the rejections to heart, classics including The Shining and Carrie may never have left his manuscript pages and would not have been read by millions of devoted fans. The writer revealed in his On Writing memoirs that he had racked up so many rejections before fame that the nail pinning them to his wall could not hold them. Aged 14, he opted to use a bigger spike rather than give up on his dream of becoming a writer. “I replaced the nail with

9 - 15 May 2019

Stephen King’s success story 1974: Stephen King’s first novel Carrie sold 13,000 copies.

WRITE DECISION: King is now read by millions.

a spike and kept on writing,” King said. In the mid-1960s the writer enrolled to study English at the University of Maine and after graduation got qualifications to teach. But he was unable to find a post and worked a variety of jobs in the meantime while also supporting himself through writing fiction. King sold his first short story, The Glass Floor, to Startling Mystery Stories in 1967. Publication in short

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story magazines for others followed, with many now collected in the Night Shift anthology. But King continued to struggle to make ends meet. He recalled in On Writing that he once had to spend the entirety of his fee for The Raft on a fine for driving over a traffic cone. The writer eventually penned his first novel, Carrie, but that was rejected dozens of times before Doubleday Publishing bought the rights. The first run in 1974 sold 13,000 copies. But fortune came to King when Signet Books bought the paperback rights for the equivalent of more than €353,000. Half the fee went to King and his writing career finally took off. Carrie was followed by Salem’s Lot a year later. Almost 45 years later, King’s books have sold millions of copies and have spawned several films. King’s persistence and dedication to his craft clearly paid off.

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Advertising Feature

The most valuable card in the deck M

ICHELLE and TONY JOHNSTONE have known each other since the age of 14 and make the perfect couple to offer a friendly and efficient service through Ace of Shades. As you would expect from the name, rather than being a Motorhead tribute, their main business revolves around the production and supply of shades, blinds and awnings. They decided to settle in Spain in 2008 and in 2009 following advice from a friend they purchased an existing business and eventually changed its name to Ace of Shades. As the firm took off, so they expanded to include glass curtains, doors, roller shutters, mosquito screens, glass barriers for balconies and pools and even pergolas. Social Media expert Michelle puts together their superb Facebook page and includes updates of their latest projects as well as videos and according to her, the bulk of their business comes from recommendations, social media, leaflet drops and advertisements in their favourite (and for them highly successful) English language newspaper Euro Weekly News. Whilst Michelle is heavily involved in promoting the business, Tony is the point of contact for those wanting a quotation for the production and installation of any of the products they supply. Call Tony and explain what you are thinking of installing and he will be happy to visit your home (anywhere from San Roque to Vélez-Málaga and inland) armed with a huge selection of samples, discuss exactly what you

need, measure up and then present a quotation. Once an order has been placed, Ace of Shades will confirm a delivery date and send one of their two teams of fitters to install everything with the minimum of mess and disruption. Whilst it may appear simple to quote for awnings or blinds, it is much more complicated than one might imagine as the options are almost endless. Some urbanisations require that all external awnings or blinds are fitted in ‘house colours’ to ensure that there is a homogeneous look, especially on apartment blocks, but there is no problem there as Ace of Shades are able to supply any of the colour palettes required and will be able to obtain stock of material with ease. Once the colour scheme is decided, the next option will be to choose whether you require electrically operated or manual awnings. If you have glass curtains, you will be pleased to know that the company can offer to create and fit blinds for them and indeed if you don’t have glass curtains yet, then they can be added to make a balcony, veranda or terrace another room which can be used during the cooler months of the year. Having spent 10 years devoted to the business, Tony has come up with a number of innovations, the latest and perhaps most useful one is a unique locking system for roller shutters which can be vulnerable to being forced open from the outside by crafty burglars and a smart idea like this can improve security immeasurably. Ace of Shades doesn’t just install new equipment, they are more than happy to be-

FRIENDLY SERVICE: Michelle and Tony.

Every customer should be treated with respect. come involved in supplying new motors, make repairs or replace fabric which may have been damaged by the weather over the years and you don’t have to have had the original installation made by the company as they are happy to assist everyone. Michelle and Tony love the lifestyle on the Costa del Sol and believe that generally people are very friendly and happy to help each other. This belief has transferred into their business ethic as they feel that every customer should be treated with respect and given the type of service that they would expect to receive themselves. Although things have changed as the coast has developed, they feel that it is still relatively stress free and the reason they receive so many orders through recommendation is because they make sure that all of their work is undertaken by their

EXTERNAL AWNINGS: The options are almost endless.

GLASS CURTAINS: Can be added to make another room. multilingual staff in such a way as to make dealing with them a pleasure rather than a chore. As well as supplying individual householders and business owners, the company is finding that business with property management companies continues to increase as they recognise that Ace of Shades offer an effi-

cient and cost effective service. All glass curtains come with a five-year guarantee as does the material on awnings (which are protected by Scotchgard) whilst a manufacturer’s guarantee on the mechanism which is normally one year, is extended for a second year by Ace of Shades.

To find out more visit the website at http://aceofshades.design, keep up with latest developments and installations at the Ace of Shades Facebook page (facebook.com/AceOfShadesCostaDelSol), call 951 273 254 or ask for a quote by sending an email to info@aceofshades.design.

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CDS SUCCESS

PTA: Just part of the modern site.

A successful location T

HE opportunities which exist for business on Costa del Sol are endless, and the fact that it is a magnet to so many foreign nationals is a testament to the area. Spain does have a reputation of employing bureaucracy, but over the years this is becoming less of a problem for those who want to live and work in the

country, and government, in conjunction with private commerce has invested a great deal of time and money to attracting businesses to Andalucia. One example of this is the growth of the Parque TecnolĂłgico de Andalucia (PTA) which was officially opened in 1992 and since then it has grown considerably, attracting a number of international associations

as well as many major companies to set up their headquarters in the Park. Although it welcomes large organisations, it is just as pleased to find space for smaller start-up companies which are innovative, respectful of the environment and geared towards manufacturing, advanced services as well as research and development.

Since it was first set up, the Park has seen an overall investment in excess of â‚Ź750 million and this continues to grow, with the bulk of the financing coming from private sources although the public sector has injected â‚Ź170 million into development of the PTA. According to research undertaken by accountancy firm Deloitte; the Park has

had a very important role in the growth of the economy of Malaga Province, helping to raise annual GDP of between 6 and 8.5 per cent. There are now some 600 companies based in the PTA and these not only employ nearly 17,000 skilled workers, but are also ideally placed to offer jobs to graduates from the University of Malaga.

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By Tara Rippin IN her own words, author and huge success story J K Rowling “was the biggest failure I knew.” She had just got divorced, was on government aid, and could barely afford to feed her baby in 1994, just three years before the first Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone, was published. While writing it, she was reportedly so poor she couldn’t afford a computer or the cost of photocopying the 90,000word novel, so she manually typed out each version to send to publishers. It was rejected dozens of times until finally Bloomsbury, a small London publisher, gave it a second chance after the CEO’s eight-year-old daughter fell in love with it. Her book series has since been translated into 73 languages, sold millions of copies and earned more than €17 billion through movie adaptations and sponsorships. But still, Rowling is adamant she was once a fail-

CDS SUCCESS

Author writes her own success story ure. She has admitted that creating her book series was not an easy process, and said it would take years of perseverance to become the success she is today. Soon after conceiving the idea for Harry Potter, Rowling began writing but was immediately pulled away from her work by the death of her mother. She stopped writing the book and sank into a deep depression, getting nothing accomplished in that time. She took a job teaching English in Portugal for a year to get away from her troubles and more importantly, use her time off to continue working on her book. She set the goal of having the first Harry Potter book done by the time she returned from Portugal. But she failed and after falling in - and then out of love, she ended up with a

failed marriage and a baby daughter she had to raise alone. Rowling herself has conceded she had no job, no finished product and two mouths to feed. As she struggled with depression, she returned to working on her book in cafes while her daughter was asleep. Rowling found solace in writing, and decided that while she had little, it was enough to be moderately happy. There wasn’t anything left to be afraid of and her work showcased that mentality. When she finally finished the first three chapters, she sent the manuscript off to the publisher, the first of many who passed on the project. Bloomsbury Publishing company agreed to publish Rowling’s novel at the point where she was losing confidence in the book altogether.

It’s fair to say that on top of talent, hard work and sheer determination paved the way for Rowling to become the first ever female to become a billionaire author.

BILLIONNAIRE AUTHOR: JK Rowling’s rise to fame is inspiring.

Advertising Feature

The hottest table in town THERE is little doubt that the Sala Group operates some of the most popular and talked about venues in the Puerto Banus area and the name is synonymous with great food and entertainment. Open all year round the attractive and recently renovated La Sala Puerto Banus is an icon of cool which attracts locals and holidaymakers as well as celebrities to sit on the terrace, enjoy the view of the mountains from the rear covered terrace, pop into the Live Lounge or enjoy the main bar. Whilst La Sala is enjoyed by a number of young people, it is also very welcoming to everyone as there is so much to enjoy in one of the many different areas within the building. There is a very useful valet parking service and the friendly and professional staff will be very happy to welcome you to

the premises and regardless of whether you are a regular or a first time visitor you can be sure of exceptional service at all times. Open from 10am for a delicious breakfast, running through lunch and dinner, La Sala Banus is busy all of the time until it closes late in the evening and the choices are really quite amazing. There are always special offers for diners and the new two-course set lunch menu at only €15 per person plus tax has been introduced with a great selection of six starters and six main courses to choose from. There is an even better offer for ‘Ladies who Lunch’ as for

LA SALA BANUS: See and be seen.

just €4.50 more they can enjoy unlimited cava between 1pm and 3pm. The main menu has also been expanded with a number of very enjoyable and healthy Scandinavian dishes which concentrate on fish and shellfish ingredients.

For those who just want a drink, happy hour has just put on weight as on every day between 5pm and 7.30pm you can enjoy discounted cocktails, house cava, wines, draught and bottle beers as well as house spirits and mixers. Naturally music is an important element of the fun and entertainment and there are bands or singers appearing every night either in the main area or the live lounge with regular tribute artists, some of the premier entertainers on the coast as well as special appearances from

UK bands and acts and the recently introduced Unplugged sessions on the terrace. It’s not all about music as recently there have been a number of stand-up comedy nights as well as the first dinner and theatrical evening, which saw the presentation of the very successful 84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff sell out. There are regular charity events raising funds for the local community as well as the very popular Sala Group Golf where members play at some of the best courses on the Costa del Sol.

There is a huge amount to enjoy at La Sala so whether you just want breakfast, a light lunch, a great night out or to host your own celebration, visit the website www.salagroupholdings.com and find out about all of the venues which the group operates, alternatively call 952 814 145 to make a reservation.

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Advertising Feature

If it’s cold outside THE FIRE PLACE can warm you up

FTER many years of involvement in the manufacture, design, supply and installation of all types of fires, Ian Jensen moved to Marbella some 20 years ago and set up The Fire Place. Originally when he moved to Spain, he was looking to take things a bit easy, but he then ended up opening a specialist shop offering a complete range of fireplaces and seven years ago he moved the showroom to a more central position in Marbella close to the famous Marbella Arch. Now working with daughter Holly and a hard working staff of bilingual experienced fitters, the company offers a complete service for all matters concerned with fires and fireplaces and can often offer a same day fitting service. Sourcing only the best equipment from across Europe, the company can supply and fit fires of all types including Gas, Wood Burners, Open Hearths, Electric and Biofuel and they will offer a free no obligation survey in order to suggest the most suitable option for any home or business premises. As well as visiting existing properties, they offer a design service for new builds and reconstructions and can even help with smoking chimneys or other problems with existing fires even if they didn’t fit them initially. Nowadays with the emphasis more and more on clean energy and heating they are finding that customers want to install the most energy efficient and up-to-date heating options

GAS FIRES: They have trained fitters and arrange certification.

THE FIRE PLACE: Offering a complete range of fireplaces.

WOOD BURNERS: Give out the strongest heat. which Ian with his many years of experience and contacts within the manufacturing industry is able to source. Prices are keen because they don’t purchase from wholesalers, but work with the companies who make the various fires and due to their purchasing power are able to obtain custom produced fires and surrounds for their clients.

Gas fires are very efficient and offer clean energy, but they have to be fitted properly which is where this family business comes up trumps. Not only do they use their own trained fitters (never bringing in subcontractors) but they then arrange an independent check and certification by the leading gas company on the Costa del Sol and a certificate will be supplied

to enable a contract to be drawn up with them for gas bottle deliveries. They arrange all of this for you so you don’t have to. They are now able to offer flueless gas fires which are safety controlled by a catalytic converter to ensure efficiency and safety for the family. Nowadays people from northern Europe in particular want to use their outside areas and unlike their Spanish cousins are used to cooler weather, but turn to a great alternative allowing them to sit outside at any time of the year, by installing a fire pit and The Fire Place offers a wide range of options. As well as installation, the company also offers a complete service to include all building work, brickwork and plastering. There is no doubt that wood burners give out the strongest heat but they do require good stocks of material and regular cleaning whilst electric and biofu-

elled fires can be great options. Biofuel in particular is becoming increasingly more popular as it does not use fossil fuel, but is produced from a biological process and is generally not only useful in being formed from domestic and industrial waste as well as vegetable matter but is almost carbon neutral. As well as installing this type of heater, The Fire Place is also able to supply the Biofuel itself. Apart from being friendly and holding a wide stock of fires as well as surrounds in wood, marble and stone, the team actually know what will work and what won’t in almost any situation which is why their free home visit and design service is so helpful. Offering a combination of off the shelf and tailor made fireplace solutions, they are so confident of their stock and value for money that they guarantee to beat any written quote and no job is too big or too small.

For more information contact them on 951 898 250, email thefireplaceshop@gmail.com, take a look at some of their products at http://www.fireplaceshopmarbella.com or visit their Facebook page. The newly refurbished Fire Place is situated at Local 7, Calle Zinc, Edf La Marina, Marbella and is open Monday to Thursday 9.15am to 3.45pm and Friday 9.15am to 2pm with weekends and after hours by appointment.

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Interview - EU Insurance Direct - WENDY CODD

ENDY CODD is the person behind EU Insurance who set up the company in 2005. She started from humble beginnings where she worked out of her apartment to now running her own office in Elviria. Wendy is still very much part of her company and still works full time in the office complemented by three members of staff. Wendy started her insurance career when she left school and worked for the Prudential Assurance Company at their main office in Holborn Bars, London. After having her three daughters she decided to take redundancy after 15 years as the main office she worked was moving to Reading. From there she moved on to Allied Dunbar Financial Services and then on to Rothschilds in Mayfair where she stayed until

Who is the person behind EU Insurance Direct? Wendy is a firm believer in customer service.

WENDY CODD: Started her insurance career when she left school. 2005 before moving to Spain. Although Wendy has always worked in Insurance she has other strings to her bow! As well as working full time, her three daughters were

heavily involved in the performing arts at that time and she decided to buy into a franchise of Stagecoach Theatre Arts in 1993 which she set up and ran every weekend for 12 years. Her three

daughters were not only involved in the classes but also helped to run the schools as they got older. From her first school in 1993 in Highgate in North London, she expanded to five part-time theatre

schools, three in Highgate, one in Totteridge and one in Gospel Oak. In the 12 years of running Stagecoach she has seen many famous children come through her doors, to name a few Jonathan Ross’s children, hairdresser Nicky Clarke’s children, Jo Wiley (presenter), Miss Dynamite was a student in her early years and Amy Winehouse was a student for many years before she left to join Sylvia Young, but sadly passed

a few years ago. Wendy is still in contact with many of her past students, older now, who are appearing in West End shows. However the intention to move to Spain was looming and so in 2005 she sold Stagecoach and moved to Spain. Wendy is therefore no stranger to setting up and running her own business and when she left the UK for Spain made the decision to offer Insurance services to expats in Spain. Always a firm believer in customer service, her aim was to create a business where clients would be looked after, given the best advice and always be at the end of the phone. Daunting as it was when she arrived, her database of clients has grown rapidly over the years hence the need to increase staff as the workload increases annually.

Advertising Feature

EU Insurance Direct EU INSURANCE DIRECT provides Insurance advice for expats living in Spain and they can also cover Gibraltar and Portugal as well. The company has been based in Costa del Sol since 2005 offering quality covers at competitive rates coupled with excellent customer service. Wendy who owns EU Insurance Direct has a wealth of knowledge in Insurance as she has worked in the industry since she left school and has more than 45 years of experience, 14 years of that in Spain. Starting with her first client in September 2005 she now has over 4,000 people who regularly use her insurance services. Based in Elviria, near to the town hall, the office is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30am to 5.30pm, but closes on Friday at 4pm and they are closed weekends. Services include insurance for: * Cars (exceptional inclusive covers - cheapest rates) * * Bikes (various options)*

* Home (amazing covers including subsidence and landslip) * Marine * * Private Health (various budgets and to obtain residency) * *Life * * Accident Plans (€56 a year for 15k benefit up to 65 years) * * Funeral Plans (from €120 a year) * * Pet (medical and liability covers) * * Travel Insurance (single and annual multi trips) * * Commercial cover for bars,

restaurants * * Liability cover for Sports professionals, Carers, Builders* *Office insurances * Their aim is to provide a personal friendly service, to give impartial advice and to offer quality insurance at competitive costs by listening to clients’ needs and quoting accordingly. Customer Service is a very strong point of EU Insurance Direct’s ethic. “There is nothing worse,” Wendy says “than to

EU INSURANCE DIRECT: Is based in Elviria, near the town hall. purchase a service or product from a company and then when something goes wrong they are not around to help.” Apart from advertising, word of mouth is the best form, possibly

***SPECIAL OFFERS *** MANY SPECIAL OFFERS ON AT THE MOMENT – PLEASE CALL FOR DETAILS - OFFERS ON CARS, HOME, FUNERAL PLANS AND LIFE UP TO 60 EUROS CASHBACK.* * Conditions apply

WHY EU INSURANCE DIRECT? • THEY HAVE BEEN IN THE INSURANCE MARKET FOR OVER 45 YEARS • THEY ARE EXPATS, LIKE YOU, LIVING IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY. WE KNOW YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS AND HAVE THE SOLUTIONS FOR THEM • THEY SPEAK THE SAME LANGUAGE • THEY ARE LOCAL AND HAPPY TO ENJOY A ONE-TO-ONE CHAT WITH YOU TO REVIEW YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES • THEY HAVE A DEDICATED CLAIMS DEPARTMENT TO MAKE IT EASIER FOR YOU IN CASE OF A CLAIM • THEY CAN OFFER YOU ANY INSURANCE POLICY YOU MIGHT NEED, ALL UNDER THE SAME ROOF If you have a renewal coming up or have just bought a new home or car, give EU Insurance a call and give them the chance to quote, you may be pleasantly surprised, not just at the price but also at how quick, easy and simple they make the whole experience.

the biggest generation of new clients is through referrals, clients who have been happy with the service provided and in the event of a claim, how it was dealt with.

SIGN UP FOR THEIR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER FOR LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES, LOG ONTO SPRING newsletter EU INSURANCE DIRECT :https://mailchi.mp/dcff4c3cf995/ august-news-2964445 Call them on 952 830 843/951 080 118 or mobile/WhatsApp 635 592 610 Alternatively email them on: info@euinsurancedirect.com www.euinsurancedirect.com

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Advertising Feature

A Company with a record of longevity E

LITE GLASS CURTAINS in Elviria was set up in 2006 and current owner Gemma joined the company in 2007 before taking it over in 2015. This is a company which manufactures its own glass curtains, selling direct to the public as well as supplying builders and general trade orders. Having been in business for so long, the company knows something about the products that they make and in the case of glass curtains, Elite use a bottom loading system of their own bespoke design. Now, in addition to its range of high quality glass curtains, the company is delighted to be able to offer a whole range of new and innovative glazing products, including aluminum and Upvc windows and doors, retractable and fixed roofs, stainless steel balustrades, pool surrounds, toldos and much more. The company’s factory is situated in Elviria on the Elviria Industrial Estate and is a first class facility creating many varied products although glass curtains remain their primary product and the one for which they have become so well respected. Although Gemma is quite content to say that no glass curtain can ever be 100 per cent watertight because the run is vertically frameless, the curtains that they manufacture are produced to the highest standard and the addition of a run of glass curtains not only helps

NEW ROOMS: Create a new and flexible space.

RETRACTABLE ROOF: Just one of the many glazing products available. to create a new and flexible room, but there is a positive reduction in noise and many customers have congratulated Elite on the fact that the new rooms are kept warm and safe from strong breezes. Add to this the fact that the systems use 10mm safety glass, means that as well as being robust, reflection is cut down and for those who are worried about UV rays there is also the possibility of adding a solar protection system. Because they manufacture their own glass curtains, Elite are able to offer accurate and realistic installation dates, ensuring a first class service from beginning to end, and more importantly giving great service to the ever growing band of customers which Elite has seen increase each year. All of their fitters are very experienced and the company meets all data protection and health and safety standards as well as being

Ensuring a first class service from beginning to end. properly insured in case of any unexpected event. Talk to Elite, which boasts that it meets all of the legal requirements to trade in Spain and you will soon see that you are contacting professionals who have managed literally thousands of installations based here on the Costa del Sol. You don’t have to worry about the future as although Elite offer a five-year guarantee on the glass curtains, in their 14 years of trading the life of their product has lasted more than twice over the guarantee period given. Dealing direct with the manufacturer is essential if you are looking for the most reliable and professional service, so look no further than Elite whose team of multilin-

gual engineers and helpful staff members are always on hand to give sound and logical advice, no matter the project in mind. As well as supplying glass curtains, the company is very aware of the new legal requirements concerning balustrades on new balconies as well as the need for community pools to be properly fenced in to protect children and they can tailor make safe and secure balustrades of any type to fit any area. Double glazing is becoming much more popular in Spain as customers, especially from colder climates such as Scandinavia, Russia and the Ukraine look to replace standard glazing and here, Elite can offer either aluminium or Upvc surrounds (much of which is the well-respected Cortizo brand) with the latter type being available in more versions than just white. At one time, aluminium was the most popular choice, but as ener-

SAFETY GLASS: Add a solar protection system too.

GLASS CURTAINS: Keep rooms warm and safe. gy prices have forced up the cost, so Upvc is coming more and more into its own and is of course long lasting and versatile. Apart from quality of product, Elite Glass Curtains pride themselves on the fact that they offer a personal service with much of their business being by recommendation, especially as unlike some other companies, they have now set up a new

To obtain directions of how to get to Elite Glass Curtains in Elviria at Urbanización Polígono Industrial nave 32, Elviria, Marbella, 29604 do visit their Facebook page where you can also see some of their latest installations.

department, run by Gemma’s husband Carlos to look after the renovation and servicing of installations which they have not supplied themselves. It is very easy to obtain a free quote by visiting their website, www.eliteglasscur tains.com or by calling 952 830 503 as the office is open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday and prospective customers are always welcome to visit, view the product, discuss their needs and to consider various payment options.

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Advertising Feature

IND your dream home with ABC Property Experts in Spain. ABC Property Experts is a Scandinavian-owned real estate company on the Costa del Sol, offering properties for sale and rent in Spain. This group has more than 15 years of property sales in Spain, an intimate knowledge of the local market, and are sure to find the perfect dream property that fits both your budget and specific preferences. ABC Property Experts was established with a strong focus on providing real estate services that go beyond their customer's expectation, helping clients in Spanish, English, and Norwegian. Their success is shown in the company’s growth, becoming one of the Costa del Sol’s leading real estate agencies based on delivering an unrivalled service to their international customer base, through loyalty and integrity. All their staff are trained on a regular basis and are fully upto-date with the latest developments, luxury listings and all the financial and legal aspects of the real estate sector. In addition, they partner with some of the most reputable legal and financial firms to ensure all their customers’ legal and financial requirements are dealt with professionally. ABC Property Experts represent properties for sale from private vendors, developers and banks on the Costa del Sol. Having built a solid reputation over the years, ABC Property Experts has managed to outpace the overall trend in sales on the coast, sourcing only the best properties to help their clients succeed in finding their ideal property on the Costa del Sol. ABC Property Experts is a modern day real estate company that combines modern practices with old fashion values, including a comprehensive, step-by-step service. Whether you are looking for your dream home, a luxury villa or a high return investment in Sotogrande, Marbella or other locations, one of their property

Easy as ABC

BEACH VIEWS: This €230,000 three-bedroom apartment is 200 metres from Punta Paloma, Manilva.

MODERN: A new apartment in Dona Julia, Casares for €205,700.

TWO BED: This apartment at Golf Atalaya is on sale for €395,000.

LUXURY PROPERTY: A seven-bedroom villa in Sotogrande for €2,200,000. experts will guide you through the process. There are hundreds of thousands of properties for sale on the Costa del Sol, which is great news for the prospective buyer - but it does throw up one question; where to start?

A property expert will guide you through the process.

Well, at ABC property Experts they have worked hard to earn their reputation as a trusted, reliable real estate agent on the Costa del Sol, so they are one of the best places to go if you are buying a property in Spain. Part of a group of companies

constructing and promoting a vast range of new and resale quality freehold properties in the Costa del Sol area, they make it their business to ensure that all properties are 100 per cent legal and free of all encumbrances. This gives their customers confidence in the property choice they make. ABC Property Experts value their customers highly and for that reason they offer the advice and support of two dedicated teams who will be happy to hold your hand through the process of buying your ideal property. They are certain that they can cater for all customers’ housing requirements, however specific they may be. If you are looking for a property in Marbella, with more than 20,000 properties for sale, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. With the help of ABC Property Experts, you can sit back and relax while they source properties according to your specifications. The company also provides a personal and enjoyable property-finders service, a free service to discover the best opportunities Marbella has to offer. ABC Property Experts also offer a full range of aftercare services, such as help finding furniture, installing television and internet, renovations, rentals and property management. Get in touch if you would like to learn more about their services. Marbella is one of Europe’s premier destinations based largely on its climate, providing 300 sunny days per year, hot summers and mild winters. Equally, Estepona is renowned for its beaches, which stretch for some 21km of coastline. It is a popular resort and holiday destination. Due to its natural environment, surrounded by the sea and the mountains, Estepona has a micro-climate with more than 325 days of sunshine per year. If you are looking for properties, ABC Property Experts have intimate knowledge of where to buy in Marbella and the surrounding areas, and which places to explore along the beautiful 150 kilometre coastline of the Costa del Sol.

So why not contact ABC Property Experts and let your hunt for the perfect home begin? Drop in to their office at Avenida Mar Del Sur, 11312 Torreguadiaro, Cadiz, or call 00 34 952 001 100. Alternatively, email info@abcpropertyexperts.com.

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GARDEN PROFESSIONALS: Provide a fantastic and reliable service for both your garden and your pool.

UALIFIED horticulturalist Andrew Cuthbert has been here on the Costa Del Sol for 15 years. The professional gardener has been in the horticulture industry for more than 35 years and gained a National diploma in Amenity Horticulture at Askham Bryan College of Agriculture & Horticulture in Yorkshire, England. Before coming here, Andrew constructed gardens for various large landscaping companies around the UK, eventually setting up his own company in the North East. After deciding to switch the unpredictable British weather for Spain’s sunnier climes, Andrew moved here. On the Costa del Sol, his business, Garden Professionals, provide a fantastic and reliable maintenance service for both your garden and pool, whether it is a private villa or an urbanisation. Andrew and his team have extensive experience looking after gardens, and pools on the Costa del Sol, from Benalmadena to Estepona, and inland to Mijas Pueblo and Benahavis. Garden Professionals also love to work and create beautiful gardens. This busy team works all year round carrying out all

Professional garden and pool maintenance your garden maintenance needs, including lawn care, grass cutting, plant care, pruning, pest and disease control, and removal of all waste from your garden, as well as maintenance and installation of irrigation systems. Now spring is here, it is a good time to begin thinking about tidying up beds and borders, as well as buying summer flowering plants. The soil in Spain can be very dry and its clay content can make it hard. Avoid walking on soil that will be used for planting, especially when it is wet, to prevent it becoming compacted further. Spring is also a good time to begin preparing a planti-

ng plan for trees and shrubs. Use the milder weather to prepare the ground by adding compost and fertiliser and turning over the soil. When digging an area, also avoid unnecessary strain working Spain’s hard soil by first wetting the area. In planning your planting design, also take into account where rain water naturally runs to and which areas receive the least water. Try to choose water-loving plants where the soil is generally wettest, and keep the hardier plants for drier areas. Finally, ensure a healthy lawn and garden by removing common pests and fer-

tilising. If in doubt, contact the experts at Garden Professionals, who can create and maintain your dream garden. The same goes for your pool, which needs to be maintained regularly to ensure you get the most out of it year-round. One basic but essential task is to test the pool’s pH level. This scale runs from zero to 14; seven is considered neutral. Anything below this is more acidic, while anything above seven is less acidic. In a pool, the pH should remain as close to 7.4 as possible. These levels can be tested cheaply and easily using pH testing

For help with your gardens and pool contact Andrew Cuthbert and his team at Garden Professionals on 600 259 981, or at andrew@garden-professionals.com. Alternatively, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/gardeningcostadelsol.

strips and other devices and help you keep an eye on your pool’s overall health. Another important factor in a swimming pool is algae and bacteria growth. Algae can build up along the sides, bottom, and edges of a pool, and can quickly take over if left untreated. To keep algae levels under control, clean and vacuum your pool regularly and keep water moving by putting your pump on a timer. Finally, getting the right chlorine balance in a pool to ensure it is as clean as necessary can be tricky. Too much chlorine can irritate skin and eyes, whereas too little can allow potentially harmful bacteria to grow. One of the easiest ways to ensure your pool is always at its best to be enjoyed by you, your family and friends, is to employ a professional with the necessary skills to maintain your pool. Proper pool maintenance can also keep a check on pool structure, pumps, and heaters, potentially saving costly problems further down the line. Garden Professionals have extensive experience caring for pools on the Costa del Sol and can help make certain yours is always there to be enjoyed.

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Carrey’s rocky road to comedy movie mogul HE may be a Hollywood funnyman today, but Jim Carrey’s road to fame was certainly not a smooth one. His huge grin and wacky impersonations shot him to the top as an actor, but his life did not start out with success and smiles. While many A-listers appear to have been bred into success, with powerful parents who can offer exclusive schools, Carrey was not one of them. The humble beginning of Jim Carrey’s story was filled with anything but good fortune. James Eugene Carrey was born in Ontario, Canada, to his mother Kathleen, a home keeper, and his father Percy, a musician turned accountant to support his four children. But when the comedian was 14 years old, his father lost his job, and the family hit rough times. They moved into a VW van on

a relative’s lawn, and the young aspiring actor, who was so dedicated to his craft that he mailed his resume to The Carroll Burnett Show just a few years earlier, at age 10 - took an eighthour-a-day factory job after school to help make ends meet. He worked as a janitor; a job that he’s made clear in many interviews since, caused a great deal of anger and distress in his young life. A year later, Carrey performed his comedy routine on stage for the first time and totally bombed. But he was undeterred and kept plugging away. The next year, at 16, he quit school having worked around his learning disability, dyslexia, by developing a phenomenal memory, to focus on comedy full time. Shortly afterwards he moved to LA, where he parked on Mulholland Drive every night and visualised his success.

Carrey’s big screen debut came with 1984’s Finders Keepers , but he didn’t find success until he played the titular role in the 1994 comedy Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. From there, Carrey’s expressive face, expert mimicry skills and physical brand of comedy kept the hits coming. He followed with The Mask (1994), Dumb and Dumber (1994), Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls (1995), Batman Forever (1995), The Cable Guy (1996) and Liar Liar (1997).

JIM CARREY: It wasn’t plain sailing for the pet detective.

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IF asked to list the advantages, education and early career achievements you thought you needed to get on in business, it’s unlikely Duncan Bannatyne would be able to tick any box on the list. He came from a poor Glaswegian background with his family living in one room. He left school at 15 with no qualifications whatsoever, joined the navy and then received a sentence of nine months in a Military Correction Centre and a dishonourable discharge for throwing an officer off of a jetty into the sea. Bannatyne then trained and worked as a mobile tractor mechanic before he went to the Island of Jersey, where he surfed and partied, funding his lifestyle with a series of jobs, including deckchair attendant, ice cream seller and

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The Scottish dragon Duncan Bannatyne hospital porter. However, on his return from Jersey, Bannantyne bought an icecream van for £450. He subsequently bought others and eventually sold the business for £28,000. He also founded a Care Home providing company and a nursery chain, both of which he later sold for a combined £38 million. Bannatyne has since been involved in his own chain of 71 health clubs, which bear his name, and has diversified into properties and hotels. He was awarded an OBE for his work for charity and amongst

others supports an orphanage in Romania for children with HIV and AIDS. His own charitable trust was started with an initial donation of £1 million. He supports the ‘Geared for Giving’ campaign, a tax-efficient workplace charitable donation scheme. He became president of the UK National No Smoking Day and is a Patron of PC David Rathband’s Blue Lamp Foundation, a charity set up by PC Rathband after he was blinded by gunshot. The Foundation supports emergency ser-

CDS SUCCESS vice personnel who are injured in the line of duty. Bannatyne, however, is best known for his appearances on television’s ‘Dragon’s Den’ between 2005 and 2015. During this time he invested in 36 businesses including an umbrella vending machine, a falconry company and a hat shop. But he later revealed he has since sold all of the investments he made during the course of his appearances on the show. He has married three times and has a total of six children. He now lives with his wife, Nigora, at their home on the Algarve area of Portugal. Bannatyne is said to be worth at least £175 million, a figure which was apparently decimated after a previous divorce.

RAGS TO RICHES: Duncan Bannatyne came from a poor background.

Advertising Feature

La Sala by the Sea, Marbella’s best Beach Club WITH the summer almost upon us, Marbella’s premier beach club La Sala by the Sea has just reopened and promises to be the place to be. Situated in a pleasant cul de sac on the beach front, this is a luxurious venue where you can enjoy the sun, great music and some exceptional Thai food. There are two amazing Pool Parties to look forward to as on the Bank Holidays Monday May 27 and Monday August 26, the place will rock to the music of the 1990s and 2000s with special guests Romeo and Lisa Maffia who are now part of the So Solid Crew Experience. Lisa has been recording as a solo artist, is an actress and producer as well as recently being one of the winners (alongside Mutya Buena ex Sugababes) of

the latest edition of TV’s Celebrity Coach Trip. Romeo has released his own tracks on Lisa’s record label and continues to be a popular face on the hip hop, dance, garage and R&B scenes. Supporting this pair will be DJs Jordan Valleys, Wendale de Jesus and Mista Bibs all making sure that the two events will be absolutely heaving with party goers enjoying the weather and the vibes. Bookings are absolutely essential for these two Pool Parties so call 952 813 882 straight away to avoid disappointment. Every day buzzes at La Sala by the Sea but this doesn’t mean that every day is crazy and with the comfortable beds, large swimming pool and Jacuzzi as well as great selec-

BY THE SEA: Enjoy sun, music and Thai food. tion of food and drink, you can enjoy a lazy day at one of the places where celebrities love to relax. The food in the restaurant is exceptional with the emphasis on Thai cuisine although there are also a range of sushi, salads and gluten free options. The drinks menu is worth working your way through with a whole collection of delicious cocktails as well as a wine list to meet all pockets and tastes and what would a day at a beach club be without choosing a bot-

tle from the more than 10 Champagnes on offer? After a day at La Sala by the Sea, you can even consider moving on to La Sala Banus to one of the four Lovejuice Supper Club events which are taking place over the summer. With chill out music playing all day, plus waiter service direct to your sun beds, La Sala by the Sea offers a relaxing laid back

luxury as you unwind on your king size cabana bed or have lunch in their Thai-style restaurant. During the weekends, experience a different ambience with live DJs, who will be playing the best funky grooves.

To find out more visit www.lasalabythesea.com.

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Everyone can be successful

HE word actually means so many different things to different people and is a concept which has no true definition. As far as some are concerned, success is judged by monetary results and the more money and possessions you have, the more successful you may be considered, but this - whilst praiseworthy - is just one of many possibilities. Artists and musicians may not be the most popular in the world or earn large amounts from their work, but if they produce something which they consider to be a genuine piece of art, then in their own eyes they will see themselves as successful. For others, success is managing to have children and raise a healthy and happy family which is why many of us have chosen to move to Spain where the climate is good and the general way of life is more laid back, allowing us to live rather than exist. Success has different meanings as you get older; for a baby, success is making those first hesi-

tant steps and then perhaps learning to talk and read, whilst for a child, being popular and making friends whilst learning more about life could be seen as a success. Then passing exams and finding your first boy or girlfriend could give a feeling of achievement which is reflected in the eyes of those who love us and of course anyone who masters Spanish as a new language has to be congratulated. For the majority of people, financial stability through steady work is very important, and if you are able to afford and enjoy the lifestyle which you crave, then in your eyes, you are a success. Sporting achievement is another goal for many, and it can be seen

not only as an enjoyable pastime, but in some cases, a real way of achieving recognition and in the case of professionals at the top of their game, a significant income and adulation. For those who suffer from mental or physical difficulties, then success can be measured by the fact that they have managed to get through another day without pain or knockbacks. Another area which seems to attract large numbers of expatriates is the cause of charity, so that many

people, especially those who are retired, devote a great deal of their time to helping those who are worse off than themselves. It doesn’t matter if it’s finding homes for cats, dogs or horses, helping raise funds for the disadvantaged or those who are suffering from illnesses such as cancer, but there is no question that every life helped, be it animal or human, can be considered a success.

REACH FOR THE SKY: You will succeed.

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ICTORIA WESTHEAD is a dualqualified British solicitor and Spanish abogada operating on the Costa del Sol. Offering help when you need it most with property transfers, notary visits, wills, business and criminal law in Spain, Victoria Westhead has been a qualified lawyer since 2005. Since then she has gained considerable experience working for British local authorities specialising in areas of planning and criminal litigation. She also studied Spanish at the prestigious University of Granada, Centro de Lenguas Modernas and at The Open University as part of a degree in Modern Languages. Now as a member of the British Law Society and the Malaga Law Society, she provides quality bilingual legal services on the Costa del Sol, including an initial free one-hour consultation. Victoria is proud to be the legal advisor to Brexpats in

English-speaking legal help

VICTORIA WESTHEAD: Has been a qualified lawyer since 2005. Spain, an association which was set up to defend the rights of British immi-

grants in Spain in light of the referendum result of June 23, 2016 during which

Providing quality bilingual legal services.

For legal advice, contact Victoria Westhead at Avenida Tivoli 15, Edificio Santa Maria 1ºN Benalmadena, Malaga, or by phone on 951 707 823 or 678 826 771. Alternatively, email info@britishlawyerspain.com.

the UK voted to leave the European Union. Brexpats in Spain now has around 5,000 members and www.brexpats.es provides important information on Brexit related issues and the current rights and duties with regards to healthcare, pensions and residency etc. Brexpats in Spain is working closely with the British Ambassador to Spain and the British Consul to Andalucia and the Canary Islands to channel back to the UK government the concerns of British residents in Spain. Victoria Westhead also works closely with Spanish lawyer Jorge Postigo on many cases, between them your Spanish case is in expert hands in all times. Their collaboration means Victoria and Jorge are also ideally-placed to handle any multi-estate wills efficiently, with Victoria taking over the British probate side and Jorge handling any Spanish property matters.

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Interview - Victoria Westherd

QUALIFIED in 2005 in the UK and practised for 10 years in local government. I trained at Liverpool City Council, concentrating mainly on planning law, although I also covered litigation, child protection, and education. Eventually I moved to become a government lawyer in the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, practising mainly planning law. I also worked for 10 different local authorities as a locum. Coming to Spain was a big change. I always had an interest in learning Spanish and I started learning the language more than 10 years ago at night school. Later, I took six months off in 2009 and went to Granada to study Spanish at the Centro de Lenguas Modernas in an inten-

How long have you been operating in Spain?

VICTORIA WESTHEAD: The lawyer is dual-qualified in both England and Spain. sive course. That time planted the seed for me wanting to move here. What made you choose the Costa del Sol? I saved for four years in England to make enough money to start my business in Spain

and chose Malaga because of the British expatriate population. When I moved here in 2013, I was still doing some locum work in the UK while developing my business here. How did you build your business?

I got in contact with local Spanish lawyers, and continue to work with Jorge Postigo, collaborating with him on 99 per cent of cases. He has worked as a lawyer for 15 years and is a sole practitioner like me, so our collabo-

ration works well. How did business develop? I have always taken time to build up my business slowly and work has really come to fruition after a lot of longterm planning. Word of mouth has particularly helped and business has grown. My relationship with Brexpats in Spain has also helped me offer Brexit advice to expatriates. I have also formed relationships with the British consulate and am now named on their website. What sets you apart from your competitors? Being British and dualqualified, I understand the cultural nuances of

British people here so I can provide all the help they need. I do not have a secretary, and I pick up the phone to every call myself so it is a very personal service. I also work all hours and can meet where needed, whether that is weekends and evenings or meeting at a notary or other location. Understanding the British and Spanish legal systems, I can explain the differences in the two countries. For example, everything has to go through a notary here, which is quite different to the UK. I can also explain inheritance laws and other aspects which are very different here.

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ITH more than 30 years’ experience in car rental, Fetajo Rent A Car certainly knows what it takes to create business success in Spain. This company began life as a family business in Malaga in 1982, before growing to include offices all over the Costa del Sol. Initially specialising in renting out cars without driver, with an office on site in Calahonda and an initial fleet of 10 vehicles, Fetajo Rent A Car say that thanks to their clients and the experience the company has gained, they have been growing step by step to now become a car rental leader in Malaga. The company now has a fleet of vehicles of all types, as well as offices in the heart of Costa del Sol, in Mijas Costa, Urb Sitio de Calahonda, Urb Riviera del Sol, and Malaga Airport, as well as a delivery and pickup service at the AVE Maria Zambrano train station in Malaga. Fetajo Rent A Car can also provide cars for Torreblanca, Fuengirola, La Cala Hills, el Cerrado del Aguila, El Faro, El Chaparral, La Cala de Mijas (Mijas Costa), Miraflores, Riviera del Sol, Calypso, El Rosario, Calahonda, Artola, Cabopino, Elviria, Las Chapas, Los Monteros, and Marbella. The main goal at Fetajo Rent a Car, as car rental leaders in Malaga, is their personalised customer service. Therefore, their offices are located at the heart of Costa del Sol, which allows them to offer you, possibly, one of the best personalised car rental services. Their staff members have a wide experience in the business and their raison d’etre is to ‘offer a professional and polite service to each customer.’ These services include pick up and drop off at Malaga Airport, no extra costs when collecting your vehicle, and upfront online prices.

Experience the Costa del Sol in style

FAMILY BUSINESS: Fetajo has grown from a small business to include multiple offices on the Costa del Sol.

MAIN GOAL: As car rental leaders is personalised customer service. This trustworthy company also has a transparent fuel policy, simply asking clients to deliver a vehicle back with the same amount of fuel they picked it up with. In the event that the vehicle is returned without the same amount of fuel that it was delivered with, a proportional amount of the non-returned fuel will be charged, as well as

a service cost. Their pickup service also ensures there are never any lengthy queues to get your car when you arrive at the airport. Their added extras come at an upfront and reasonable cost so you never receive a nasty shock with your bill. These include GPS navigation at €6.00 minimum and €12

Added extras come at an upfront and reasonable cost. maximum, and a maximum cost of €60 overall per booking. Child seats for those aged between one and three years old are between €5 and €15 a day and a maximum of €40 per booking, while those for children aged four to seven are €3 to €12, and a maxi-

mum of €30 overall. Adding an additional driver to your booking is also easy at Fetajo Rent A Car, at between €3 and €12 a day, and no more than €30 per booking. The company also offers the additional benefit of specialpurpose vehicles for use during the Costa del Sol’s golf season. With more than 70 courses, Costa del Sol or Costa del Golf is the number one European destination for sport lovers, due to its facilities, leisure opportunities and the weather to enjoy golf throughout the year. Now, Fetajo Rent A Car offers vehicles ideal for fitting clubs and golf equipment to the course. So when booking a car, why not contact Fetajo Rent A Car? Contact their office in Riviera del Sol, Mijas, at Lugar Conjunto El Saladito, 4 (Urb Riviera Del Sol),29649 Mijas Costa, Malaga, or on 952 939 738, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Alternatively email riv iera@fetajorentacar.com.

For their Calahonda office, drop into Urbanizacion Rincon del Mar, Avda. de España, s/n, bloque 6, local 3, 29649, Malaga, or call 952 93 44 12, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10am to 1.30pm, or email fetajo@fetajorentacar.com At Malaga Airport, visit Explanada de la Estación s/n, 29002 Malaga, or call 952 93 44 12. This office provides 24-hour service week-round. Finally, if you are arriving by train, why not take advantage of Fetajo Rent A Car’s collection service from Malaga’s busy Maria Zambrano AVE station? Visit 51,Calle Argonautas, 29004 Malaga, or 952 93 97 38 24-hours day from Monday to Sunday. Alternatively, email riviera@fetajorentacar.com

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SPAIN produces a vast amount of the world’s orange crop and it’s harvesting of the fruit goes back centuries. The country harvested around 2,691,400 oranges in 2007, making it the world’s sixth largest producer of the fruit according to recent UN figures. Spain is home to several unique types of oranges and produces some of the world’s favourite varieties. The Spanish call an orange ‘naranja.’ One, the Valencia orange, was chosen as the Spanish mascot for the 1982 FIFA World Cup. The Valencia orange is a late-season fruit and is popular when other varieties are not being grown or harvested. Varieties including the Berna orange, the Biondo Comune (ordinary blond), the Cadanera, Castellana, Macetera, Roble, Verna and Vicieda are also grown in Spanish groves. Blood oranges are also grown in the country where they are known as sanguina. Spain is also home to acidless varieties harvested ear-

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Spain’s orange success

SWEET HARVEST: Spain produces vast amounts of oranges. lier in the season. The orange plant was brought to Spain by the Muslim Moors who ruled various parts of the Iberian Peninsula between 711 and 1492. Cultivation of oranges began in Al-Andalus, now the

Andalucia region of Spain where the growing and harvesting of the crops is still concentrated to this day. Large-scale growing began in the 10th century. At first the fruit was considered a luxury which only rulers,

aristocrats and wealthy merchants could afford. It took hundreds of years for the orange to become more widely available across Europe, with the sweet variety well-known by the 17th century.

The Spanish were also partly responsible for taking oranges overseas and opening up new areas for harvesting. Christopher Colombus may have planted oranges on the island of Hispaniola now Haiti - and the Dominican Republic, after his second voyage to the Americas in 1493. The 16th century saw explorers and settlers spread the orange to parts of South America, Mexico and Florida. Spanish sailors planted orange trees along early trade routes so the fruit could be harvested during voyages. The fruit, which is high in vitamin C, was known to prevent scurvy. Spanish missionaries introduced the orange to Arizona from 1707 and to San Diego in California in 1769. The fruit was spread to other parts of California in the 19th century.

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Elite Clinics: a world-class solution to losing weight

W THE TEAM: Husband and wife, Martin and Marion Shirran.

HEN talking about Costa del Sol success stories there is one husband and wife team who have taken not just the coast, but the world by storm. Martin and Marion Shirran’s Elite Clinic premises, just behind the Plaza de la Constitucion in Fuengirola, may seem a relatively modest base, but from here they have achieved worldwide recognition, acres of newspaper and magazine coverage and appearances on television shows across the world. The latter includes a spot on Good Morning America, which has the biggest English-speaking audience anywhere in the world, as well as being featured on the UK’s ITV Daybreak and CBS News’s Inside Edition. They have also been featured in just about every UK national newspaper over the past few years. But what is it that everyone is talking about that has brought the couple so much acclaim? Put simply it is a non-surgical alternative to gastric bands called the Gastric Mind Band (GMB) that has time and again proven to be effective in helping people lose weight - lots of it. It is a hypnotherapy-based treatment that Martin and Marion were inspired to develop almost by accident. Marion explained: “One of our clients had managed to stop smoking with our help, but as a throw-away line said she was putting on weight and maybe we should make her think she had a gastric band. “We took it as a joke at first, but the more we thought about it the more we thought ‘we can do this’.” So they put their thinking

caps on and came up with a programme to help people lose weight. Martin outlined the ethos behind the idea, saying: “If you have a major problem with a computer you reset it. That is what we do with people - we reset them. “No one is born obese; it is learned behaviour. From a very early age people are encouraged to overeat. Parents tell their children to finish what is on their plates, then reward them with a pudding or ice-cream. “Our idea was to reset people’s brains and their attitudes to food.” In order to do this a strategy was devised that investigates each individual’s thought processes when it comes to eating and to find the underlying causes for their obesity. Over the course of several days patients undergo intense therapy sessions which are each highly structured and designed to prompt them to ask a number of very deep, psychological questions, some of which they might not have previously considered relevant. The aim is to get people to develop a different perspective around their relationship with food and embed new ways of thinking and more helpful behaviours around food. These lessons are then reinforced under hypnosis when the Gastric Mind Band is mentally placed. This is in fact a relatively small part of the integrated process. Once your target weight has been reached the ‘band’ is then removed. The treatment is long-lasting with many people testifying that not only did they lose weight, but they kept it off as well.

This was a radical new approach and solution for those wishing to lose weight, and it soon hit the headlines in the UK, then America, Australia - in fact all round the world. This was back in 2008, but despite being in high demand Martin and Marion have stayed settled on the Costa del Sol when they could have chosen to move to just about any glamorous city on the planet. “We like it here,” said Martin. “Fuengirola is a lovely place to work in.” They own the global patent to the process and have trained several clinicians across the world to give the GMB therapy, but there are still many people who want to be treated by the inventors of the process - the people who wrote a best-selling book on the subject. In fact, they regularly have people who fly in from such places as New York and Geneva for the four-day treatment, while others have flown Martin out to treat them in their own homes. “In a way, we are the victims of our own success,” said Martin. “We are busier than ever. But that is how we like it. If we were to win the lottery, I think we would still carry on doing this. “You have to remember that we are in a very close relationship with the people we treat - it is a very intense four days where we get to know people very deeply. It is a privilege to be able to help people, it really is not all about the money.” And it is this attitude that helps explain why Martin and Marion have been able to sustain one of the Costa del Sol’s biggest success stories.

If you would like to find out more about the Gastric Mind Band or any of the other hypnotherapy services Martin and Marion offer, such as help in quitting smoking, find out more at www.gmband.com and eliteclinics.com Elite Clinic: Calle España 1, Edificio Buendia 1, Fuengirola, 29640 Tel: +34 951 311 591

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F Sleeping Beauty had been able to choose her own bed, it would have been made by the number one name in slumber, Swedish manufacturer Hästens. Having been in business since 1852 when Master Sadler Pehr Adolf Janson decided to expand his company to make mattresses as well as saddles, the company has been in the forefront of production of what it believes are the most comfortable beds in the world. With six generations of the family involved over the years, all have been committed to producing perfect beds and mattresses and they have expanded on a worldwide basis with outlets in Asia, Europe, North America and South Africa. If you want to sleep on the same type of bed as the Swedish Royal Family then Bdhome located in the centre of Marbella has a huge stock of all things Hästens. Each bed is handmade with passion as they use only ethically-sourced sustainable resources and natural materials to craft a Hästens bed. The purest flax, wool and cotton, slow-grown Swedish pine and genuine hypoallergenic horsehair are all part of the painstaking process involved in making each section of the bed and mattress. Enter the store in Marbella

The bed of your dreams

HANDMADE WITH PASSION: Just some of the Hästens range on display. and you will see a wonderful selection of bases, mattresses, toppers, duvets, bed covers, linen and headboards and unlike many other manufacturers, you can have a choice of different mattress colours as well as legs depending on the height at which you are most comfortable for sleeping. It is perfectly possible to purchase a stock item and this can not only be delivered

quickly but Bdhome will also be happy to take your old bed and mattress away. As all humans are different in shape and size as well as liking hard or soft mattresses, it is often a compromise when a couple make the decision to purchase a new divan set. With the Hästens product, this is no longer a problem as they will custom make your bed to your specifications using dif-

ferent size springs to ensure that each partner can enjoy a good night’s sleep on a mattress made especially to suit their needs. When you consider the amount of work involved in producing the exact product that you want, it is quite surprising that the custom made set can generally be delivered within four to six weeks of placing the order.

As the company continues to expand and to develop new ranges, it has looked outside of its own circle and has partnered with three design icons to update or produce new looks for the company products. The Being collection is its latest collaboration with British designer Ilse Crawford. Natural fabrics such as hemp and linen means the collection is not only more sustainable, but also more comfortable, with naturally hypoallergenic and breathable qualities that ensure guests stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Hästens classic blue check has been reimagined by Swedish design firm Bernadotte & Kylberg for the Appaloosa and Marwari beds, both of which use the construction of the Hästens 2000T bed. Then there is also a new bed line collection designed by Lars Nilsson which draws influences from his travels through the British countryside, where he encountered many beautiful gardens and elements from the gardens have been used in the designs, particularly focusing on the iris flower, that explore the use of colours and florals in an entirely new way. As we humans spend so much time in bed, it is very important that we are comfortable and are able to enjoy a good night’s sleep, waking refreshed and not aching because the mattress was totally unsuitable.

A visit to Bdhome situated at Ramiro Campos Turmo, Edif Atlanta, local 6, Marbella (Tel 952 861 122) which is open Monday to Friday 10am to 1.30pm and 4.30pm to 8pm as well as Saturday 10.30am to 2pm is strongly recommended so that you can experience for yourself the comfort and range of Hästens products available. Their experts in store will explain all of the benefits of the various options and help you design the perfect bed which will both look and feel good in your property.

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RANSMATIC is co-owned and was started by Paul Sutcliffe, who has worked in the automotive industry since 1973. In 1987 he made the life changing decision to move with his family to Spain, in search of success in the sun. After a few years owning a golf kart sale and repair company, he decided to sell up and start an automatic gearbox service and repair business. Back then there were far fewer automatic cars in Spain. But with the large expatriate community, many of whom were driving autos, as well as the certain growth of the Spanish market, he saw the potential and Transmatic opened its doors, making them one of the first companies in the area specialising solely in automatic gearbox repairs. Almost 30 years later Transmatic is run by Paul’s sons, Robert and James. Along with other family members this is truly a family business. With over 10 members of staff and 1,200 square metres of workshop and stores in Estepona, it is safe to say the company has gone from strength to strength. Transmatic carry out all kinds of services related to the automatic gearbox. From a regular oil and filter change to a fully reconditioned gearbox, be it a 1950’s classic to the latest nine-speed gearboxes available today. The team can also repair 4×4 units and manual gearboxes. All work is carried out on site with no third parties involved and comes with their rock solid one-year guarantee. Robert says: “Just about all new models have computer controlled transmissions and we have to constantly update our diagnostic and analysis tools as the industry is changing so rapidly. To keep up with the latest technology we regularly send our technicians to seminars across Europe. We are also members of several technical associations and are in frequent contact with major suppliers across the world.” One aspect of automatic transmission work which is often ignored is servicing.

Transmatic: automatic gearbox specialists on the Costa del Sol

EXPERT ATTENTION: Transmatic provide specialist services. Most regular car servicing schedules do not include changing the transmission oil and filter; in fact, many car manufacturers advise that the transmission will need no attention during the life of the car. In practice it has been found that servicing of the transmission on a regular basis can often save an expensive breakdown later on.

All work carried out comes with a one-year guarantee.

Robert says: “Very few people are aware of the importance or even the need to service their automatic gearbox. Everybody seems to know they must regularly service their engine to keep it at its best and make it last, but do not know the same applies for the automatic gearbox. Many costly repairs could be avoided with regu-

They are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 2pm then from 2.30pm until 6pm at Calle Juan de Cierva, 26, 29680 Estepona. Alternatively, telephone 952 796 166, mobile 615 834 322, email info@transmatic.es, or visit www.transmatic.es.

lar servicing; we are not talking the same interval as the engine, but every 60,000 to 80,000 kilometres, it should be serviced. Transmatic have the latest automatic gearbox fluid changing equipment, along with a full range of oil types and filters to offer higher than dealership standards. So if you have not serviced your car’s automatic gearbox and would like to address this, or have any other type of problem, or just an inquiry, please call Transmatic and they will be at your service.

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SPAIN ON CELLULOID LET’S move focus away from films made in Spain, to talk about of the country’s most famous actors; and he’s from this very region! Whilst most sources state that Antonio Banderas was born in Malaga, Andalucia.com states proudly that he was actually born in Benalmadena (of Malaga Province). Not a lot is made of the fact - if indeed it is true. What is not in doubt, is that the people of Malaga City are proud of their ‘favourite son.’ Banderas had every intention of being a famous footballer as a teen, but a broken foot ended that dream. He later attended the School of Dramatic Art in Malaga, often getting into trouble with the police because of political censorship under Franco. His troupe toured Spain, playing to tiny theatres and groups in the street. He then moved to Madrid (aged only 19) to make his fortune, despite having very little to his name. Amassing

The boy from Benalmadena – es Bueno! critical acclaim and a host of awards, it still took until 1991 (when he was 31) for Lady Luck to play her part in his career. Antonio featured in Madonna’s film, In Bed with Madonna, raising his profile so much that Hollywood soon beckoned. By 1993, he starred alongside Tom Hanks in Philadelphia. Since then, he has starred in such epics as Evita (with Madonna again), Once Upon a Time in Mexico and the Zorro films of 1998 and 2005. Younger readers may recall him in the Spy Kids movies and as the voice of Puss in Boots in Shrek.

FUN FACT: Referring to his feline part in Shrek, he admitted, “Now women always say how cute that cat is. They love the cat, and they hate me!”

His commitment to the Zorro role, had Banderas training with the Spanish Olympic fencing team, practicing with real swords, substituting them for lighter aluminium version in the film. He even took an extended course in horse riding to add authenticity to the part.

HANDSOME: A young Antonio Banderas. Interestingly, Banderas will be playing the part of a very famous Italian soon, Ferrucio Lamborghini in a biopic about the car-making legend. Still making successful films and still an undeniable heart-throb, Antonio Banderas has one child, a

daughter. Stella was born to Melanie Griffith (his second wife) whom he had long admired, even before they met. And he still loves his football, too, splitting his life between Hollywood and the Costa del Sol. The boy from Benalmadena; he did good. VERY good!

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Ray Winstone’s special Spanish rehearsals By Simon Wade SEXY BEAST is a bawdy and profane tale of a brutal gangster and his attempts to lure an old friend into carrying out ‘one last job.’ Don Logan is the sociopath (played against type by Sir Ben ‘Gandhi’ Kingsley), with the hapless Gal portrayed by Ray Winstone. For a budget British movie, a surprisingly sterling supporting cast was made up by Ian McShane, Amanda Redman and James Fox. The film opens in the glorious Spanish sunshine, with Gal and wife Deedee (Redman) enjoying the trappings of success and a well-deserved early retirement; he from crime, she from porn films. Their peaceful idyll (filmed on location in Agua Amarga, An-

dalucia) is soon shattered by a boulder rolling down the hill and into their pool. This merely seems to be a metaphor for Gal’s ex-mentor Logan, when he comes tumbling back into their lives. Cue chilling menace from Kingsley as he persuades Gal back to London to rob a bank vault. And cue absurd scenes at a Turkish bath, involving even more water! Sir Ben carries an immense thespian weight as the gangster, pulling inspiration for the character from his (no doubt sinister) grandmother. Legend has it that other actors were so stunned by his ferocity they often forgot their lines, with their on-screen fear being genuine. But it’s the physical weight of Ray Winstone which is equally as impressive, especially in the first act. Much like Robert de

VILLAIN: Ben Kingsley as Don Logan.

Niro in his preparation to play Jake La Motta in Raging Bull 20 years earlier, the Hackneyborn actor went to extreme methods. He travelled to the Costa del Sol weeks before the cameras started rolling in order to get as deep a tan as possible - who

FUN FACT: The pool-bound boulder was actually made from fibreglass, and a huge net was placed on the other side the pool, in case it went careering into the village below!

wouldn’t, after all? He also took advantage of the time to eat as much quality Spanish food as he could in order to bulk up for the part. Hilariously, Winstone later referred to this period as ‘the best rehearsal time I’ve ever had in my life!’ Enjoy the film and the lovely Spanish scenery, but do watch out for the colourful language.

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HILST there are quite a few dance groups and teachers along the Costa del Sol, none can boast the pedigree of the principal of Dance with Freedom in Calahonda. Eloisa Muñoz has spent her life at the top rank in dance of all types and is now offering to teach those of any age how to become great dancers, or how to just enjoy the art that she knows and understands so deeply. At the spacious Dance for Freedom Studio in the El Zoco commercial centre, she teaches every style that you can imagine and backs up her knowledge with the teaching qualifications she earned over the past 16 years. Don’t just take her word for it, the results speak for themselves and for two years running, dancers from the studio have taken first place in the categories of Classic Ballet, Contemporary Dance and Flamen-

Dance with Freedom

SCHOOL: In El Zoco commercial centre. co in the Spanish Championships held in Toledo beating 82 other competing groups. Dance is fun, so you don’t have to be looking to become a champion as there are a huge range of different options to consider and age is not a barrier as anyone can be taught the basics of dance provided that the teacher is skilled.

STUDIO: Offers a huge range of options.

The actual range of classes is enormous and you can enrol for Classic Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Spanish Dance (which includes Bolero, Flamenco and Regional Dances), Salsa, Funky Hip Hop, Zumba, Line Dance, Aerobatics and even Pole Dancing. Add to that classes in Pilates and Yoga and you can be as-

sured of having a great time, whilst improving your skills, mobility and fitness. Because Eloisa is so dedicated, she does look for some commitment from her students but recognises that not everyone can ever reach the same levels of skill but she is confident in the knowledge that anyone who comes to the studio will be-

come a better dancer over time. It can be quite difficult to find the correct clothing and footwear for dance and prices can be very high, so Dance with Freedom has started stocking a complete range of different dance equipment including leotards, tutus, shoes, ballet pumps, leggings, indeed everything and more that a dancer may need. Even if you are not a member of the school, you are more than welcome to visit and browse all of the items available and perhaps chat to Eloisa about what might be most suitable for you. Anxious to bring dance to as many people as possible, Eloisa runs classes for those with special needs, including Down’s Syndrome and hopes to introduce pensioner’s classes in the not too distant future.

Dance with Freedom is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 1am and 4pm to 8.30pm at numbers 137 and 138 upstairs in the El Zoco Centre in Calahonda, so do visit the studio, call 951 495 775, visit the Facebook page or have a look at the website http://www.dancewithfreedom.com which has videos of some of the performances.

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Interview - Dance with Freedom - Eloisa Muñoz

T the age of just four, E l o i s a Muñoz discovered the world of dance and has spent her entire life living her dream. She was determined to become as expert as possible and at 13 left her home in Barcelona to start training at one of the best dance academies in Europe. Her love of dance meant that she became a professional working with some major companies and took the role of Prima Ballerina in the Spanish National Company in Madrid where she remained for a year and a half before moving on to other areas. She spent five years as a dancer on Spanish TV appearing with such diverse artists as Sarah Brightman, Vonda Shepherd, Pavarotti, Monserrat Caballé and

A life dedicated to dance Julio Iglesias as well as many Spanish pop artists before being invited to return to her great love of Classical Ballet as part of a Moscow-based company which toured Europe. Her next employment was with a circus before returning to the Spanish National Company, but this time in Contemporary Dance which she believes passionately presents the very best of this style in the world. Next, she was awarded a scholarship in Paris where she was trained by a Russian Professor of Ballet so that she could enter

ELOISA MUÑOZ: Is living her dream. an international competition in which she modestly says she was a bit of a failure as she only came second. Eloisa returned to Madrid and continued to dance, even performing at La Scala in Milan but then recognised that the life of a top dancer is similar to

Dance is the same in any language. that of a footballer and decided that she could best remain doing what she loved but as a

teacher rather than a full-time performer. Nine years ago she moved to the Costa del Sol and opened her first dance school having spent several years obtaining all of the necessary qualifications to allow her to teach at all levels, not just in Spain but anywhere in Europe and she continues to

study as well as teach. She has recently opened a new school (Dance with Freedom) in very spacious premises in Calahonda where she teaches a whole range of different skills to pupils aged from two and half to 73 and in her words, “Dance is the same in any language.”

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Carniceria Holandesa for top quality meat and wine T

HERE have been three generations of butchers with the name Willem van Beek and the latest who runs Guillermo, the Carniceria Holandesa is without doubt a master of his trade. This spotless shop (which is much more than a simple butcher’s shop) is based in the pretty Urbanisation of La Heredia at Km43 on the Ronda Road with plenty of free parking outside. Although the emphasis is on fresh quality meat, there is so much more to enjoy at Carniceria Holandesa where you can sit outside and enjoy breakfast or lunch cooked on a barbecue after choosing from the fresh products on display. Walk inside the building and on the right there is a fully stocked wine bar where you can sit and have a drink or choose from the hundreds of Spanish and European wines available to take home with you. There are some real top class reds, Champagne, whites and some perfect blush roses from Provence and from time to time, Willem arranges for wine tasting sessions with a promise of a bite or two of some of his best meat. Walk from the wine department into the butcher’s shop and you will see a huge counter with fresh meat on one side and a range of cooked meats, charcuterie, cheese, prepared food and (for the Dutch customers in particular) imported smoked eel and herring. This must be the only butcher in Spain who has draught beer on offer behind the counter and customers visit from far and wide to have a

Enjoy lunch cooked on a barbecue after choosing your fresh meat.

chat and drink whilst they choose the cuts of meat that they want to purchase. Willem has his own farm in Los Barrios and he knows that the meat he offers for sale is top quality as he rears it himself and cooks his own ham and bacon as well as preparing other exceptional meats such as his renowned smoked sausage. Whatever you fancy, it is pretty certain that the Carniceria Holandesa will be able to satisfy your needs and where he doesn’t produce the meat himself, he imports Black Angus beef from Ireland and Hereford fillets from Wales as well as top quality white veal from Holland. As you look at the range of meat on offer, you can see Tomahawk steaks, fillets, chops, chicken, breaded veal, lamb, pork, as well as a veritable cornucopia of prepared options such as ribs, chicken kebabs, burgers, minced meat and other specialities all made by Willem. So popular is the fresh meat that he offers, that Willem is delighted to say that he sup-

CHEERS: The perfect wine to go with your meal - or just to enjoy on its own.

QUALITY: Willem only deals in the best meat.

TASTY: Choose your meat and they will barbecue it for you. plies a number of local restaurants on a regular basis. In honesty, Willem is also a skilled chef and prepares a

number of different meals to take away and cook at home and is also more than happy to assist with catering at special events, preparing salads for buffets and obviously great meat. The selection of artisan soups and pastas that he makes is really impressive alongside more substantial dishes such as goulash, beef bourguignon and he is particularly proud of the jus de veau as it takes between four and five days of preparation before he considers it perfect enough to sell. There is also a wide choice of bottled sauces from around the world alongside different mustards, oils and exceptional

HOME DELIVERY: They can being their products to you.

balsamic vinegars plus a small but good selection of fresh vegetables and breads. There are even some very tasty sausage rolls guaranteed to satisfy the most fastidious of British customers. Don’t worry about this being a Dutch Butcher as he and his smartly dressed staff can between them converse in Dutch, English, French, German and Spanish and with opening hours of 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Saturday and no closing on most public holidays there is plenty of time to shop with them. If you enjoy top quality meat at affordable prices which you can then pair with the correct wines and sauces or if you just fancy a bite to eat then make a point of visiting Guillermo, the Carniceria Holandesa on the road to Ronda.

Keep in touch by visiting www.facebook.com/guillermocarniceriaholandesa and see when the next special event (such as caviar tasting) is planned and if you want to find out more contact Willem by calling 952 927 478.

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T was in 1992 that Joe Bayley and wife Samantha arrived in Spain and began their kitchen and furniture business first at Fuengirola Car Boot Market, graduating to a factory unit in Fuengirola and from 2013 a kitchen shop in La Cala De Mijas where they offer a full design, supply and fitting service. There is no doubt that ‘Joe Bayley Kitchens’ have demonstrated a longevity and grit that few other companies on the Costa del Sol can match. The business has expanded in two ways: firstly to include bathrooms and bedroom furniture and secondly, through Samantha’s business ‘The Painted Kitchen’ to renovate rather than replace and provide a bespoke hand painted/ professional spraying service. With five fabulous children to bring up, Samantha made the family her priority. As the children grew, so Sam worked part time in the business. When the financial crisis hit Spain in 2008 it became apparent that there was a market for people who wanted to change their kitchens but couldn’t afford a complete revamp. Sam concentrated on restoring kitchens rather than just painting new installations. What started as a response to a need has become a very viable business and both companies run alongside each other from their base in La Cala de Mijas. Joe offers what he believes is an exceptional and almost unique service whereby he will not only design the layout and supply the material, but will also act as project manager for the entire installation, providing skilled plumbers, electricians, tilers etc and ensuring that they perform to the highest standard. When you contact Joe, he will visit your property, measure up, discuss your ideas/requirements and then prepare a detailed quote, supplying computer generated drawings and plans. Not limited to a specific furniture range, there are literally

Kitchens and much more Samantha and Joe Bayley.

JOE BAYLEY KITCHENS: Offer a full design, supply and fitting service. thousands of options to choose from, many of which are available to see at the easy to find showroom situated directly behind the BP Petrol Station in La Cala. The project management service is useful for clients who don't spend all of their time in Spain. Joe visits each site daily, photographing work in progress and giving clients regular updates. Project managing ensures the liaison between all the trades runs smoothly. Joe has excellent relationships with suppliers built up over many years and is able to source top quality materials and products. Regular attendance at Trade Fairs in Madrid and Valencia ensure that he remains on top of all the latest innovations and current trends. This is without doubt a onestop shop for kitchens, bathrooms and fitted bedrooms. One of the main company strengths is the ‘hands on approach’ that Joe takes with all

of the projects he is involved with. He has his own team of skilled fitters and can call on a band of trustworthy and trusted plumbers, electricians, tilers and builders who meet his high standards and have worked with him for some considerable time. A number of those working on these projects are Spanish, but after nearly 27 years in the country there is no communication difficulty as Joe and Samantha are fluent Spanish speakers. Joe #speaksfluentkitchen too! Turning to Samantha and The Painted Kitchen, it is a very useful option for those who want to refresh their kitchens or indeed any wooden furniture without going to the expense or upheaval of a complete rebuild. She prides herself in transforming ‘tired’ kitchens back to showroom standard. A #KitchenTransformer! So successful has this side of the business been that Samantha works for several interior designers hand painting bespoke, luxury kitchens and furniture on behalf of their clients. Sam is also a very proud member of 'Hand Painted Kitchens UK' (www.hpkuk.uk) an elite group of artisan painters and membership is by invitation only. Both businesses offer a personal and professional service and undertake work from Nerja to Sotogrande as well as inland.

The showroom is open from 10am to 3pm Monday to Friday (to allow site visits in the early morning or late afternoon) but to find out more visit their two websites http://www.joebayley.com/ and http://www.thepaintedkitchen.es or their associated Facebook pages. To arrange an appointment to discuss your needs call the showroom on 951 401 695, Joe on 639 727 188 or Samantha on 639 727 180.

JUST 65 years ago the whole of what is now the Costa del Sol was a poor and sleepy province which was still recovering from the upheaval which had occurred during the Civil War. There was still a big gulf between rich and poor and the Church continued to play an important part in the way which people lived. Generally the towns were more like villages and Malaga was still rebuilding following the deprivations of the war, but things were about to change. The British economy was beginning to emerge from the shortages following the Second World War and the concept of ‘them and us’ was starting to change as it was becoming a more egalitarian society. There was a growing welfare state and employers were beginning to give their workers longer paid holidays whilst the middle classes were beginning to consider that

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Costa del Sol: A place full of opportunity

MARBELLA CLUB: Helped put the Costa on the map. there was more to a vacation than a trip to a local seaside town. Foreigners were beginning to discover southern Spain and both Torremolinos and Marbella saw expatriates coming over and opening bars and hotels.

Within a few years, establishments like Marbella Club were growing and attracting the ‘jet set’ from places such as the south of France, and as more and more people heard about what was going on, so it wasn’t just the rich

and famous who made their way to the Costa del Sol. People wanted somewhere to stay and plenty to do and apart from the sun and sea which were free, entrepreneurs recognised there were

golden opportunities to make money. Suddenly there were hotels being built alongside holiday properties, new bars and restaurants were opening and holidaymakers were encouraged to play golf in the

Credit: Marbella Club

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sun as well as other sports. Many expatriates came over with the intention of giving an English-speaking service to visitors in shops, bars with entertainers and of course restaurants. Nowadays the fame of the Costa del Sol has spread around the world and attracted tourists and new residents from all over (including many Spanish residents who have second or holiday homes in the area.) Whole new ‘towns’ such as Sotogrande have been created and the whole coast has become a vibrant area which offers the opportunity to succeed to newcomers and those who have settled. It may not always be easy, but the simple fact is that the number of businesses run by expatriates and Spaniards for expatriates is still steadily growing, helping the Costa del Sol to continue to be one of the major holiday and new life destinations in Spain.

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IDEAterrazas: the perfect solution for glass curtains

ANT to make the most of your home’s outside space? Then you need to speak to IDEAterrazas. Whatever your need for your terraces and balconies, they have the solution, from the highest quality awnings to fixed and movable roofs as well as elegant glass curtains. Having been established in 2000 IDEAterrazas must be counted amongst the Costa del Sol’s leading success stories. They have fitted more than 15,000 frameless glazing systems, meaning you can be confident in their expertise, and know they are not a heretoday-gone-tomorrow company. For IDEAterrazas the customer truly is the most important part of their business, which is why they give a highly personalised service. They recognise that no two clients or two properties are the same. There is no onesize-fits all solution so they carry out a thorough survey, each time tailored to the client’s needs. They make the best use of their team’s many years of experience to find the perfect long-term solution for any situation. IDEAterrazas are confident that they will provide the most durable and practical products to ensure customer satisfaction. Indeed, so confident are they that they offer a 10-year guarantee on their glass curtain systems - and as they are now in their 19th year of business the customer can be sure it will be honoured. The customer service ethos extends into all parts of their business. As their systems are manufactured locally (they have their own factory) waiting times are

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: They give a highly personalised service. kept to a minimum. From the moment you contact them they will arrange a visit in the shortest possible time. On average, homes and businesses will have their glass curtains installed within three to four weeks, What’s more, they are highly flexible in the way they operate, so they will fit their visits and installations around the best times convenient for you. You may not be in the home year-round, or perhaps other work needs to be completed first - just consult IDEAterrazas and they will ensure their project fits in to your schedule. They can also offer their own in-house services for any smaller jobs or preparatory or repair work needed for the completion of any of their glazing projects. They are also very conscious that simply completing the fitting of their products is not the end of the project. IDEAterrazas pride themselves on their excellent aftersales support. They are confident in the durability of their frameless glazing system, which is extremely strong and of the highest quality and will function perfectly for years if looked after properly, which is why their 10-year guarantee

covers any manufacturing defect. However, should the system need alteration, additional accessories or partial replacement or repair, IDEALterrazzas is always available for advice and to do any work necessary. So what can IDEAterrazas do for you? IDEAterrazas is the go-to company on the Costa del Sol for all your terrace needs. Here are some of the main products and services they offer. Frameless glass curtains

IDEATERRAZAS: They have the solution. moved to a convenient corner, allowing you to partially or fully open your terrace and enclose it when the weather isn’t so good. IDEAterrazas manufactures made-to-measure glass curtains which can be installed on terraces, balconies, porches and restaurants or used as interior space dividers, including those with curved shapes. Their patented system allows the glass curtains to slide over different angles and offers various possibilities in the way they are opened which we design to your convenience. Smart awnings

This elegant solution to enclosing your terrace or balcony is virtually invisible. In no way are your views from inside interrupted and from the outside the architectural design of your building is unaltered. The glass panels fold up on themselves and can be

A complete range of high quality awnings are available which are not only practical protection against the sun, but actually complement your home or business due to their attractive design. They are ideal for terraces, patios and balconies.

Sliding and fixed roofs

Some situations require a more solid structure than awnings, and IDEAterrazas can help you there too. They provide sliding and fixed roofs made from high quality materials. They work with the leading manufacturer of aluminium and wooden roofs, offering the best product along with the best roof installation service. These are perfect for creating or expanding new spaces in your home, restaurant or premises allowing you to enjoy your terrace, patio, garden, attic, restaurant or recreational area throughout the year. The mobile and fixed roof structures are made from the best hard-wearing materials and come with a two-year guarantee on materials.

Camino de Coin, Km. 2.5 • La Alberquilla 10B, Mijas Costa • (+34) 952 461 174 • info@ideaterrazas.com Customer Service Hours: Mon – Fri : 9am to 6pm • Sat: 9am to 2pm

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A caring service at a difficult time T

HE loss of a loved one is a tragic and stressful event, one that is even more so when in a foreign country where the process of dealing with it is unfamiliar. It is made even more difficult when all done in a foreign language. For this reason, it is important to be able to deal with knowledgeable professionals who can handle the arrangements with the minimum of fuss, and in your language too. The English Funeral Directors, based on the Costa del Sol, was created some 20 years ago in order to offer expatriates a service to deal with such a difficult time. As an independent family business with many years of experience having an established company in London, they know exactly what is needed to offer a bespoke, personal service. The company is owned and run by John who recognised the need for an English funeral director. After all, in a time of stress it is important to be able to communicate with someone who speaks the same language and fully understands both your needs and requirements. John and his team can steer people through all of the requirements of Spanish law and ensure that the

FUNERAL SERVICE: All tastes and budgets are catered for.

Pre-paid funeral plans are also available.

DIFFICULT TIMES: English Funeral Directors is an independent family business with many years of experience. important administrative work is completed on their behalf in as stress-free a manner as possible. John, who has been in the funeral business for 30 years, recognised that traditions and practice with regards to death in the UK are quite different to those in Spain, where the deceased is often buried or cremated within 24 hours. He understands that for

those who may have had close relatives back in the UK this is not always practical, so the English Funeral Directors can delay the process so that friends and family can arrange to travel over for the ceremony. They can also contact an English-speaking minister or celebrant to conduct the service according to your wishes. If preferred they can also

arrange repatriation to the UK, offering a caring fuss-free service that handles all the administrative details required by both Spain and the UK. The English Funeral Directors can also organise repatriations worldwide and have a multilingual team waiting to assist when needed. Their professional services include: • Death Registration • Funeral Directors

personal attention throughout the arrangements • Confirmation and checking of all documentation • Liaise with doctor, clergy and consulate if required • The care of the deceased prior to burial or cremation • Attendance of Funeral Director and staff for the conveyance of coffin and flowers on day of the funeral.

If you have the unhappy need to contact a funeral director, then proprietor John will be able to offer a caring and personal service and you can call 699 664 660 in Spain, +44 (0) 1992 623 310 in the UK or email info@cheshuntfuneraldirectors.com, their sister company in the UK. For further information, visit www.englishfuneraldirectors.com.

The English Funeral Directors offers a selection of traditional coffins and caskets, which are very reasonably priced. You can choose from a brochure or from their website. All tastes and budgets are catered for. For the growing number of people who want their last action to be environmentally positive, the company also offers non-ornate or ecofriendly coffins, as well as the option to take ashes back to the UK. John understands that death can be an expensive business and an extra burden for those left behind. While the English Funeral Directors offer various pricing options to suit your needs, they have gone a step further. They witnessed considerable interest in pre-paid funeral plans, so decided to take a close look at the options available. After much research John alighted on a prepaid funeral plan, which can be arranged through the English Funeral Directors. This leaves you secure in the knowledge that when the time comes, your funeral will not be a burden to your next of kin, whilst also ensuring your requirements are clearly noted. It provides peace of mind to you whilst reducing the stress on your loved ones in a difficult time.

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THE year 2018 was a phenomenally successful year for female football in Spain as the country outperformed everyone across all women’s youth categories. And it ended with young guns ‘La Rojita’ being crowned world champions in the Under 17 age group in Uruguay in December. And this is in spite of the fact Spain has 42,000 registered players, far fewer than powerhouses Germany and USA. Referring to the phenomenal success of the squad, Spain’s U-17 women’s coach Tona Is, said: “What we’ve achieved hasn’t sunk in yet.” And those words could just as easily refer to the amazing year Spanish women’s football in general has enjoyed, a year in which the senior national team won all their qualifying matches to reach their second FIFA Women's World Cup, while also lifting the Cyprus Cup. In the meantime, the country’s youth teams have been in a class of their own, with the U-20’s being crowned

European champions and finishing as U-20 Women’s World Cup runners-up in France, and the U-17’s outdoing their elder compatriots to become European and world champions. “I think this world title - the first for Spanish women's football - will be a turning point,” Is told FIFA.com. “The biggest success is achieving consistency,” said Jorge Vilda, coach of Spain’s senior women’s team and technical director of all the country’s national women’s teams. “It’s not going to be easy to repeat the kind of year we’ve had, but we’re working on how to keep reaching semi-finals and finals, on maintaining the standard.” As Spain’s record over the last five years shows, the stunning 2018 has been no overnight success: “From the very first day I started working with the Spanish FA, when Germany beat us 7-0, we’ve been looking at how to do things the best we can,” said Spain’s U-20 women’s team coach Pedro Lopez. Despite the fact Spain have only a

Credit Buda Mendes/FIFA

Females on top of their game

SUCCESS: Claudia Pino celebrates scoring in the U-17’s World Cup. little over 42,000 registered female players - 15 times fewer than Germany, for example - they are doing more than just hold their own. La Rojita’s 2-0 defeat of the Germans in the final of the UEFA European Women’s U-17 Championship proved that point. “For the last 12 years we’ve been working on the same methodology, which is based on a philosophy that everyone knows,” explained Vilda. The golden age enjoyed by Spain’s men’s national team was founded on

a possession-based passing game, the very same recipe for success that its women’s teams have used to great effect. “We play in a way which the players really enjoy. They understand it and believe in it,” said Is, of a style in which talent takes precedence over physical fitness. Patri Guijarro and Claudia Pina, the respective Adidas Golden Ball winners at this year’s U-20 and U-17 Women’s World Cups, are two prime examples of that.

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A new location but same standard of excellence A FTER nine years in Nuevo Andalucia and three years in San Pedro Alcantara, the Marbella Beauty Academy has moved to the delightful Sotogrande port still under the skilled eyes of Giselle Beck-Davies, daughter Georgia and Head Tutor Jane O Brien. With a change in the regulations governing the award of the Beauty Industries highest qualifications, CIBTAC (Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology) and the increasing difficulty of parking in Nueva Andalucia, Gisele decided that it was time for a change in both the course contents and the location. Many of the Academy (now renamed MBA International Aesthetics and Make-Up School) students come from the Estepona to Sotogrande area as well as Gibraltar whose government recognises the Academy as an educational facility and funds Gibraltarians to attend. The new site in the beautiful and popular marina area is easily accessed by foreign students who can fly into Gibraltar airport and there is plenty to do in the area at lunchtime and in the evening if students are boarding locally. Those at the other end of the coast arenâ€™t being ignored however as there are free taxi journeys laid on for students travelling from Marbella, San Pedro and Estepona. Alongside Giselle and Georgia, Head Tutor Jane Oâ€™Brien who has won two International Awards as Best Tutor continues to work at the new Academy and a number of well-respected tutors have come on board including Anna Scott, make-up artist and owner of a

BEAUTY ACADEMY: Is adding a number of advanced courses as it restructures.

model agency, Rachel Claire who is also a skilled make-up artist and Claire Norman who teaches hairdressing. This is a serious and professional operation which is fully insured and 100 per cent legal which trains those who want to obtain top jobs in the Beauty Industry to qualify to a standard that is recognised by all of the best hotels, spas and cruise ship companies around the world. Giselle has spent more than 30 years here in Spain and loves the friendly atmosphere where she has brought up a son and daughter and now as well as being a proud grandmother is delighted that she is able to share her passion for beauty with literally generations of new stylists. Having won two awards as Best Beauty Academy, the new version will continue to keep to its old standards of excellence but will be adding a number of advanced courses as it restructures and will

most likely expand again in the not too distant future. The majority of the courses are part-time so that a student can expect to attend perhaps three days each week depending on the number of different courses they enrol for and the great thing is that the normal class size is between six and eight students so that everyone can be tutored personally and can gain hands on experience. For those who are working during the day but need to either expand their knowledge or want to train for a completely new career, there are a number of evening classes and a small selection at weekends. In addition to the traditional beauty treatments which cover all aspects of Make-Up, Nails, Hair and Beauty treatment, a whole new list of courses have been included such as Spa Business and Management, Micro Blading, Hair Extensions, Cosmetic Peels, Micro

Needling, Hair Extensions X 8 Methods Using Non Coated Natural Russian Hair, Dermaplaning, Russian Lashes, Bb Glow, Henna Brows and Airbrush Make-Up. Giselle is always on top of latest developments in the industry and now uses Vegan friendly skin care and makeup products. Having been professionally trained and armed with the latest information on developments in the world of beauty all of her students are ready to start work at the top once they have qualified. As well as assisting in the Academy, daughter Georgia also runs Hush a Beauty Studio (telephone 722 449 754) from the same premises where she offers a whole range of treatments including Hollywood Facial, Laser Dione

TOP: Georgina and Giselle. BELOW: Giselle with Jane. Method, Profhilo Full Facial Rejuvenation, Botox, Filler, Lips, Weight Loss jab to restrict appetite, boost vitamins and help metabolism, Fat Freezing, Microblading, Lash Lifting, Extensions and Massage. Customers at Hush can also meet with an amazing Medical Aesthetics practitioner Lesley Martin and have the opportunity to enjoy the latest technology delivering clinically proven methods to freeze away your fat and if combined with the Hush prescription fat burning shots you can increase the rate of fat burning by 50 per cent.

Whether you want to make beauty your profession or just want to enhance your own beauty then contact Giselle or Georgia on 697 337 588, visit their website www.marbellabeautyacademy.com which is in the process of being updated or follow them on Facebook. You have to be very careful when you are looking to train or to put your body in to the hands of others but with MBA and Hush you can be assured that everyone is properly qualified, has years of experience, is fully insured and has your best interests at heart.

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A little restaurant, that packs a punch! I t is now four years since Celebrity Chef Steven Saunders and wife Michele opened The Little Geranium Restaurant in La Cala de Mijas and they have certainly found true success! Steven is an author of 10 cook books and was well known for his TV appearances and at the forefront of the concept of Celebrity Chefs. Not only was he a well-known personality in the UK but he also counted Prince Charles and Diana, Rod Stewart, Pierce Brosnan and many other famous people amongst his friends and customers. Dedicated to cooking from a very early age and one of about 30 Fellows of the Master Chefs Association worldwide, he actually intended to take it easy when he moved over to Spain with Michele, a classically trained ballet dancer. The food bug however never deserted him and within a matter of months they were looking for a small quaint restaurant and they found exactly what they wanted in La Cala. With Michele the driving force behind the Geranium’s design and the front of house service, the Little Geranium was opened on May 1, 2015 with seating for just 25 people inside and 25 on

FREE SERVICE: Driver Edu will take you home.

the delightful little terrace outside. Their aim was to bring Michelin style dining to this lovely little town using the highest quality ingredients delivered daily and they pulled it off with bells on! Steven has tasting menus available lunchtimes and evenings, they show off some of his best signature dishes and a wine pairing option is also available and very popular he says. There is also a small but exceptional a la Carte menu which they change every season. In addition, this must be the only restaurant on the Costa del Sol which offers a Surprise menu… a six or nine-course tasting menu compiled by Steven for you personally using exciting ingredients like Lobster, Galician beef, hand dived scallops, wild venison and of course fresh truffles! Simply let Steven know what you don’t like to eat and then give him carte blanche to create something for you, guaranteed to be a great culinary adventure! As the restaurant is small reservation is advisable and if you do require a vegan or vegetarian tasting menu (or indeed gluten free) then just let the restaurant know. Steven says “these days we have to cater for all types of intolerances and dietary requirements. “I like to make that an exciting

adventure as well, so a little notice is always helpful! We also have vegan and organic wines to accompany these dishes.” Parking close to The Little Geranium can sometimes be a chore especially in the summer and if ladies are wearing high heels it can be difficult, but this is no longer a problem with The Little Geranium’s free valet parking. Simply let them know on reservation that you require this service and then drive up to the side of the restaurant, hoot your horn and the driver will come out, take your car, park it safely and return it when you are ready to leave. However drinking and driving is definitely not a good idea so Steven and Michele have purchased a brand new luxurious four-wheel drive BMW and if you live within a 20kilometre radius and book in advance, driver Edu will be around to pick you up and take you home. Although this is also a free service, there are some minimum spends required but you can see the details online or discuss when you book. When you arrive at The Little Geranium you will notice Steven in his

STEVEN AND MICHELE: Have certainly found true success.

trademark trilby in the open kitchen and perhaps you might like to try one of five unique cocktails created by Michele, all of which are made with 100 per cent pure fruit, herbs and spices. Very popular at lunchtime is the Lobster and Chablis menu which offers a starter, bread board, Lobster Thermidor and a glass of Chablis, or there is a fantastic tapas tasting menu and their famous Asian style tapas lunch is also available. Steven is of course a regular contributor to Euro Weekly News and is not only a great raconteur but also publishes a recipe each week of his favourite dishes and many of these can also be found on the website www.thelittlegeranium. com or on www.euroweekly news.com (under lifestyle) as

well as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages. Steven and Michele are understandably proud and excited that The Little Geranium has just been voted Best Contemporary International Bar & Restaurant 2019 by the prestigious Lux Magazine. Steven says, “it’s a lot of hard work keeping the standards as high as they are and this award helped to make us realise that we have something really special here, all the hard work is paying off!” Michele also runs a dance academy in La Cala and is currently busy teaching Rehabilitation Pilates which apart from ballet is her passion. Classes can be booked by visiting The Michele Harper Academy Face book page. Steven on the other hand has a thing about plates and ensures that every course is served on a different stunning plate. Many of them have been custom-made. Michele ensures that there are plenty of fresh flowers everywhere and has just installed a brand new ceiling which appears to be like a huge flower bed!

If you want five-star food, service and fabulous, homely, surroundings, visit The Little Geranium or think about purchasing one of their gift vouchers which would make a super present for someone special! The Little Geranium, Calle Ronda, La Cala de Mijas, 952 493 602 open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.

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SPAIN ON CELLULOID ARGUABLY the best Western films ever made, some say this Sergio Leone trilogy of Clint Eastwood classics are the best films ever. But far from being filmed in the Western outback, these were filmed entirely in Spain. A Fistful of Dollars (1964), For a Few Dollars More (1965) and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966) form a trio of tales set during and after the American Civil War. The acting was minimalistic at best, and the dialogue was near nonexistent. However, even the stirring score by Ennio Morricone was eclipsed by the superb Spanish scenery forming a fascinating character all its own. Dozens of scenes throughout the films were shot in nearby areas up and down the

Credit Emilio del Prado/Wikipedia

By Simon Wade

MINI HOLLYWOOD: The town square at the Tabernas film set.

The Good, the Bad & the Scenery Costa. Los Albaricoques in Almeria portrayed the Mexican town of San Miguel. One of the best-preserved locations is further afield. The breathtakingly beautiful Cortijo del Fraile at Nijar was the Monastery of San Anto-

nio Mission in one film and a gang hideout in another. Closer to home is the deserted La Calahorra Train Station at Guadix, Granada. But pick of the bunch is Mini Hollywood at Tabernas, near Almeria. Featuring in all three

films, the site is now a successful tourist destination with Western shows and other attractions. Even with such lovely locations to film in, each of the films suffered setbacks - largely down to the language barrier.

With local Spanish gypsies used as extras, an Italian crew and American film stars, the common language used to communicate was French! The directors yearning for authenticity almost meant the end of Eli Wal-

lach. The hanging scene where his horse bolted was meant to have his steed just trot off set. However, his mount ran off over the horizon with Wallachâ€™s hands still tied behind his back! The star of the show was undoubtedly Clint Eastwood, fresh from his Rawhide success. His trademark sneer was real, as he had such a distaste of the cigars he was expected to smoke. Genuine film fans will relish the opportunity to visit any of these famous locations. The rest of us can just sit back and enjoy - all being available on DVD and online. FUN FACT: The climax of The Good, the Bad and the Ugly actually featured a real skeleton in the wrong coffin. A deceased Spanish actress wrote in her will that she wanted to carry on actingâ€Ś even after her passing.

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VILLA TIBERIO: A real oasis of calm and tranquillity.

SANDRO MORELLI: A true European.

From humble beginnings but now helping others

OON after the end of the Second World War, a seven-year-old who was begging on the streets of Naples dreamt of a better life for himself and his family. At the age of 18, Sandro Morelli took himself to London and spent his first night sleeping under a bridge, but to him this was the start of a whole new adventure. He was determined to succeed and make his life better and after working as washer upper at the Brompton Hospital he became a chef, at the prestigious Ritz Hotel and then with the help of his brother Raffaele he opened two great eateries in London, Barbarella in 1976 and Barbarella 2 in 1979. These iconic night spots attracted a huge list of celebrities, many of whom he is still in contact with including Sean Connery who had a fabulous villa in Marbella at the time. It was the Scottish actor who suggested that he should consider opening a restaurant here in Spain and although he had never really considered it before, he decided to make a change. So 30 years ago, Sandro purchased an old villa with a great

deal of land on what is now known as The Golden Mile and started to create Villa Tiberio. In what has now become a very busy and fast paced world with people shackled to their jobs and phones, Villa Tiberio is a real oasis of calm and tranquillity. Sandro loves to garden and it took him two years to create the first glimmering of what is now a fantasy setting, surrounded by classical statues, trees and plants of all types and more fountains than you could believe possible. There is no question that he loves his life and being in contact with so many people who arrive as customers and leave as friends, but he has not forgotten his early hard life and for many years has been dedicated to raising funds for children in particular as well as the Cudeca Hospice for whom he has helped raise €160,000 through charity events. Whilst this is an enormous amount, it almost pales into in-

significance when you consider that his annual summer event for the Children with Cancer charity which helps to support research at Great Ormond Street has now raised €480,000 and the next target of course is half a million. Every year, Sandro hosts a three-course dinner with copious welcome drinks, wine, soft drinks and entertainment from some of the coast’s finest musicians and singers. The evening costs €75 per person and from that Sandro donates €25 for every guest and is delighted to welcome celebrities such as Harry Redknapp, Baroness Brady and Des O’Connor to the event where there is also a great deal of fundraising with gifts from many of his famous friends. The next dinner to support the Children with Cancer charity is on Sunday June 2 and do call Villa Tiberio on 952 771 799 or 952 824 772 to reserve your place where you will not

FANTASY SETTING: The garden is full of classical statues. only be ensured a fantastic night out but will also help Cancer research which has, over the years, seen the remission rates for children at Great Ormond Street Hospital increase from 40 per cent to 80 per cent. Now, with the summer drawing closer, the Villa Tiberio with its easy parking on site will be open seven days a week for dinner until the end of September and not only will guests be welcomed by hands on host Sandro, they will also be able

For an exceptional evening with a difference in one of the longest established restaurants in Marbella, you can’t go wrong by visiting Villa Tiberio at Carretera N-340, Km 178.5 (next to Marbella Club) which is a picture perfect setting from the moment you enter until the moment that you leave. Visit www.villatiberio.com to see more about Sandro and the restaurant and to make a reservation call 952 771 799 or 952 824 772.

to offer some of the best Italian food on the coast in lush, tropical surroundings accompanied by the gentle sounds of an expert piano player and singer. Sandro’s concept is to bring a bit of happiness into people’s lives as they enter the enchanted garden restaurant (which received a Best Garden in Andalucia Award from the Junta) and as he never forgets his humble origins is determined not only to enjoy life but to help others to enjoy theirs, be they paying guests or children who need help. In his words he is a true European, an Italian living and working in Spain with so many British friends and clients (not to forget the Irish and other nationalities) who fill the restaurant.

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One Group with 12 exciting venues

ITH more than 40 years of experience of the leisure industry in the UK and Spain, the founders of the Metro Group are committed to providing excellence through all of their venues. They don’t just sit on their success but are always looking to expand and to keep up with all of the latest developments in the world of food and entertainment whilst ensuring that the core concepts of comfortable surroundings, quality food and superb service are always at the forefront of the minds of their staff. The history of the group is long and distinguished with regular openings and refurbishment start-

ing with their first restaurant as can be seen below: 1982 Opening of Mumtaz in newly developed Puerto Banus Marina. 1993 Purchase of the famous Joys Live Bar on Puerto Banus frontline, now in collaboration with local personality, the singer and pianist Paul Maxwel. 1999 Opening of Jacks Smokehouse Puerto Banus which has been refurbished and expanded in 2018. 2001 Opening of Jacks American Brasserie in Benalmadena Marina. 2003 Opening of Metro Ristorante Italiano also in Benalmadena Marina. 2006 Opening of Alberts, a Victorian museum themed restaurant

which the group converted to a stylish family restaurant in the great setting of beautiful Cabopino Port. 2008 Opening of Polo House with the controversial ‘Cad’ James Hewitt with the concept of evoking the golden era of overseas Colonial social clubs. Since this original opening, the venue has been converted to become the successful Cibo Italiano local Italian eatery. 2012 Opening of the Gaucho Grill next to Metro Italiano in Benalmadena Marina offering quality cuts of Argentinian beef. 2014 Acquisition of Bono Beach set in the most idyllic area of beach on the Costa del Sol. This was the first Beach Club

MAX BEACH: A fashionable restaurant and pool club in Mijas Costa. the group become involved with but the appeal of the club was the effortless class of the venue which is reflected in its stylish international customers. 2017 Purchase of the iconic Bar in the Benalmadena Marina, Kaleido, previously owned by a

consortium including actor Antonio Banderas. 2018 Opening of Coast restaurant and bar in the unused former nightclub area of Kaleido to complement the new Kaleido which was repackaged as a stylish cocktail bar and all day lounge. 2019 Purchase and re-

launch of Max Beach in Playa Riviera, Mijas Costa as a fashionable restaurant and pool club. To all of this the Group has added Max Fitness by Reebok Functional, a state-of-the-art designer Gym led by David Segorbe, expected to open May 2019.

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HERE is so much to discover from the properties which are owned by the Metro Group and are based in some of the most attractive locations along the Costa del Sol coastline. Whilst the design, location and menus may differ, two things are constant, value for money and a warm welcome from all of the dedicated staff. Whichever venue you choose, you can be assured that you will always enjoy great quality food and drink, a pleasant yet lively atmosphere and prices that are affordable. Running a restaurant and bar is not for the faint-hearted. Of course, there are many trials (and errors), which can be mitigated by a wealth of experience in all facets. This includes a good knowledge of the local area and the different types of consumers, from locals to annual visitors and holidaymakers. With so many locations, there is a very large staff and

A passion for great service a great deal of thought goes into hiring talented individuals who can make so much difference, as bad service or an unpleasant atmosphere can cause ripples of discontent amongst customers and reputations. It’s not just about Chefs, Mixologists, Musicians, Managers and Sommeliers, as every member of staff is encouraged to deliver a great experience to guests. From the waiters who deal on a personal basis with customers right up to the cleaners who keep the properties including the toilets spick and span. All are part of an extended family dedicated to serve you. And there’s a professional team behind the scenes that takes care of the all-important purchasing,

Jacks Smokehouse, now even bigger upstairs

Bono Beach, Costabella

menus, marketing, operations and finances. The company has invested a large amount of money into the businesses which helps to generate wealth and employment in Puerto Banus, Marbella, Cabopino, Benalmadena and now Riviera. Unlike so many places which have become old and tired, all of the properties in the Metro collection are regularly refurbished to ensure that clients are always comfortable and well-looked after. The past year has seen improvements to terraces as well as extensions and redecorating in many of the properties.

The choice is great with Argentinian, American, Indian, modern Italian, Grills, Carveries and international cuisine. And there’s much more with regular live entertainment, fantastic locations with lots of al fresco dining, and the type of service you are entitled to expect. It’s not just food. Joys Live in Banus is one of the most popular musical hotspots on the coast. Kaleido Bar in Benalmadena is the coolest place to hang out in Puerto Marina; and there are now two great Beach Clubs, Bono Beach and Max Beach, as well as the newest gym on the Coast, Max Fitness.

To find out more about each of the venues, visit www.metrogrupo.com and scroll through the individual sites.

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Roy Trevor when Moving Matters ROY TREVOR REMOVALS / Moving Matters SL has been serving the Andalucian region with an unrivalled door to door European service for almost 28 years. Established in 1918 in the UK and 1992 in Spain, these family run businesses pride themselves on client care and attention to detail prior to, during and after your removal giving rise to their motto ‘Moving Matters.’ If contemplating a domestic or business removal you would be well advised to visit their website www.moving-matterssl.com. Roy Trevor Removals/Moving Matters are members of BAR and BAR Overseas ensuring absolute confidence to the client. Since 1992 the Mijas Costa depot, Moving Matters SL, partnered with Roy Trevor, have been serving the region with high quality local and national removal services to complement the European and Worldwide service of the

FIRST CLASS: Roy Trevor is the go-to company for removals and storage solutions. parent company. Roy Trevor/Moving Matters only employ fully qualified staff certified to the industry

BAR standards with the knowledge and expertise to wrap and pack your goods, including specialist items, en-

suring maximum protection. Roy Trevor Removals/Moving Matters provide a no obligation, free quotation service with a

The Mijas Costa depot is located at Camino Minerva, off Camino de Coin, Km 12.5 (Mijas Golf Rd) Google Location: https://maps.google.com/?q=36.543190,-4.653178 Roy Trevor Removals/Moving Matters SL can be contacted at: Tel: 951 311 118 or 951 311 123 alternatively Email: info@movingmatters.net • Website www.moving-matters-sl.com

professional surveyor to prepare a tailor-made package for your particular removal needs, using the highest standard of professional materials to ensure the safe transit of your belongings. These packing materials may also be purchased from their depot separately at competitive prices. Roy Trevor Removals/Moving Matters have a fully alarmed 4,000 cubic metre, clean, dry, modern, containerised storage facility, boasting full CCTV surveillance and regular night time security patrols at their Mijas Costa depot (just two kilometres off the main A7 motorway). Containers are available in the industry standard 250 cu ft/7.5 cu mtr size to accommodate all your storage needs. This can be done on a short- or long-term basis at excellent rates. Archive storage and destruction is also available to businesses, another speciality of Moving Matters SL and DataSpace España (incorporated into the group 12 years ago).

Archive storage and destruction on the Costa del Sol AS an additional service to their long-standing professional company offering tailored removal and storage services Moving Matters SL, in 2011, set up a new enterprise, DataSpace España. This was launched to provide a professional service for the growing need for external archive storage and destruction for businesses on the Costa del Sol, thus allowing a secure and confidential off-site storage solution and freeing up

valuable office space within your business with the addition of quick and easy access. Due to their advanced custom designed barcoding system files can then easily and securely be accessed and delivered within a 24-hour period enabling premium office space to be maintained and optimising time management for your staff. Documents can be stored at either file or filebox level. Existing clients given the choice opt for

file level as this ensures less clutter within the office and given the innovative barcode system ensures that the integrity of the filebox is not compromised. By incorporating the innovative filelive system, there is a secure online facility which allows customers to track and trace the documentation and its whereabouts. In accordance and compliance to LOPD standards Moving Matters SL/DataSpace España have all the relevant

SAFE AND SECURE: DataSpace España stores your valuable documents. certification to keep your company and theirs within all legal requirements. At DataSpace España there are facilities to safely and securely shred documentation and on completion a destruction certificate is issued fulfilling your legal require-

ment. Whatever your document storage requirements, DataSpace España is the ideal organisation to meet your needs, streamlining your business in a cost effective way whilst conforming to all legal constraints.

You can visit the company website http://www.dataspace-españa.com to find out more about their services or call 951 311 123 to arrange a no obligation discussion with the experts at DataSpace España in Mijas.

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What a corker WHENEVER you open a bottle of wine or bring out the Champagne for a special occasion, odds on you have Spain to thank for keeping your tipple fresh and sealed. Almost a third of all cork produced worldwide comes from Spain. The country is second only to Portugal in terms of its share of roughly 200,000 tons of cork produced worldwide every year. Spain itself is home to 27 per cent of the world’s 2,200,000 hectares of cork oak forests. The industry is a mainstay of the economy of western provinces in Andalucia including Huelva and Cadiz. Cork oak have been grown and harvested in southern Spain for at least 6,000 years, evidence unearthed by archaeologists suggests.

From model to mogul

LEADING EXPORT: Spain produces the second largest amount of cork in the world. The reason cork was so sought after by the ancient Iberians is unknown, though they probably used it in construction and for firewood. What is known, is that it’s use to seal liquids was introduced into Spain by the Greeks and Phoenicians who began settling in the peninsula in around 1100 BC. The use of cork to seal containers is thought to have spawned what would be-

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come the Spanish tinjana. The cork harvest takes place from early May to late August. Extractors use a sharp axe to make cuts in the trees from which the material is taken and processed into a variety of products. Cork contains suberin which gives it its elasticity. The material is harvested by stripping bark away from the outside of the oaks to extract it. Because the trees are not

chopped down and can grow back, cork production is considered sustainable and environmentally-friendly. Corks and other by-products can be easily recycled and when thrown away, they biodegrade far easier than plastic and other artificial alternatives. About 60 per cent of all cork is used for stoppers in wine bottles and other liquids.

WHILE some of the planet’s most successful people might come from the world of sport or science, there is another sector contributing billions of Euros a year in business revenue; health and beauty. This sector, worth more than €468 billion worldwide each year, continues to grow, and as an appetite for new and exciting products increases, so does the number of young entrepreneurs getting in on the act. One such businesswoman is Nuria Val, a model and photographer turned skincare queen. This Barcelona-born woman has just launched her brand, Rowse, online, and is already attracting media attention around the globe. Her line, which is 100 per cent vegan and riding a current wave of enthusiasm for clean, ethically-sourced products, saw Val use her passion for fashion and photography know-how to spot a niche in the market.

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URO Weekly News is wholly owned and operated by Michel Euesden, the Publisher and Director General, and her husband Steven Euesden who is joint Publisher and Sales Director. The sheer determination and dynamic work ethic of the Euesdens has proved to be an impressive and enviable formula which saw them celebrate 20 years in the business last month. “It is our continuing aim to provide each week a respected and accurate EWN with the latest news plus up-to-date features and general information of interest to our wide-ranging reading public,” says Michel. “At the same time we strive to offer our valued clients individually tailored advertisement options and opportunities at extremely competitive rates. “With the full support of an excellent reputation for after-sales back-up, our clients and their businesses are provided with the best opportunity to maximise their potential in today’s very competitive marketplace.” When EWN was launched almost two decades ago, it started with a core set of values that remain at its heart today. Its founding mission was to deliver the Spanish news to the expatriate community in a non-sensationalist, easy to read and informative manner. And to be the voice of expats it needed to be very much at the heart of the community. As part of its ethos the EWN has down the years supported many events and charities, large and small - something it continues to do, especially for dynamic new causes which need a helping hand. In recent months, EWN has thrown its weight behind two major expat-organised events. EWN sponsored and were media partners to the Costa

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Leading the way - the m English language newsp Women’s International Women’s Day conference. The inspirational event brought many of the most dynamic businesswomen from the expat community in Spain together to network with like-minded women and to learn from each other’s experiences and expertise in their own particular fields. The newspaper then attended the launch of the Best You Legacy Club Marbella, again as media partners. The club aims to help people leave a legacy, whether it be in the business world, charitable causes or even something more personal. The EWN is proud to have been closely associated with Marbella International Film Festival (MIFF) as official media partners, which has given the newspaper the opportunity to highlight the fantastic work done by the festival in encouraging world-wide talent to grow and develop. And over the years, EWN has lent its support and backed numerous fundraising initiatives. Among the EWN’s many charitable endeavours over the past 20 years has been sponsoring the annual Positively Pink Ball in La Cala de Mijas. As media sponsors and passionate supporters, EWN has been on hand to help the charity raise funds and awareness for breast screening over many years. In October 2017, the EWN was proud to be present to witness the Positively Pink Ball’s record-breaking night, when the charity raised a record €30,500. And back in 2010, Fuengirola’s Sohail Castle was the site of an epic fundraiser organised in collaboration with the EWN.

Euro Weekly News Media Group, s.a. Avenida Ramón y Cajal, 54 - Edificio River Playa Local 2 29640, Fuengirola, Málaga • Telephone: 0034 951 386 161

EWN: More than half a million copies are read each week.

Delivering news in an easy to read and informative manner.

The Spring Garden Party, which saw more than 500 people show their support for Age Concern, raised more than €20,000. What all of these events have in common is that they bring together people from all parts of the expat com-

munity who want to make a real difference - just like the EWN always has. The EWN has and will always remain to keep the interests of the local communities, its readers and advertisers at the heart of everything it does.

www.euroweeklynews.com •

euroweekl

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Euro Weekly News Our Story EURO WEEKLY NEWS is today recognised and firmly established as one of the most successful, respected and longstanding weekly newspapers in Europe. Our mission is to assist the integration of English-speaking residents, and people spending more than three months a year, into the Spanish country. We strive to help our readers understand the culture of Spain, if not the language, whilst contin-

REPORTING THE NEWS: The EWN team outside the Head Office.

Award-winning EWN THERE is no greater national publishing accolade than to be named the Best Free Newspaper in Spain in 2017 at the Premios AEEPP ninth edition awards ceremony in Madrid. This title is one of numerous awards and honours presented to Euro Weekly News over the years: 2015 - Collaboration with Foreigners Department Mijas Town Hall; 2014 - Diploma of Honour Premios AEEPP; 2012 - Mist Information Association; 2011 - Company of the Year Costa Del Sol Business Awards 2010 - Marbella - EWN Professionalism 2002 - Collaboration with Foreigners Department Mijas Town Hall And in May 2018, the British Embassy Madrid honoured Euro Weekly News ‘In recognition of outstanding contribution to the local community in Spain on the occasion of the wedding of HRH Prince Henry of Wales and Ms Meghan Markle.’

lynews •

Euro Weekly News

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uing the traditions of home. We have no allegiance to any political party or religion and are fully immersed in diversification of any kind. Serving communities across the whole of the south of Spain, the EWN Media Group produces six regional editions and boasts a circulation of more than 580,000 copies every month. These are distributed on mainland Spain and the island of Mallorca through more than 4,000 reputable distribution points. The EWN has more than half a million readers every week. Over the last two decades, EWN has established a constantly updated database of on average 4,000 businesses which advertise each week, with companies and individuals taking advantage and benefitting from the newspaper management’s constant belief that The Customer Is King. With a head office in Fuengirola, on the Costa del Sol in the Malaga Province, the EWN has grown over the years from a fledgling publication with 10 staff. Today, EWN has a further four regional offices and more than 160 members of staff. And striving to remain a driving force in print and online, EWN has almost 31,000 likes on Facebook. The EWN website - www.eu roweeklynews.com - receives on average 170,000 weekly page views and just over 90,000 users. Last week, the site enjoyed 64.9 per cent new visitors, a figure which continues to rise. Visit our website at www.eu roweeklynews.com to find out more about the best free English newspaper in Spain, and find daily news updates, previous articles and e-Papers. Euro Weekly News has become the name synonymous with expats as the weekly paper they can rely on for reporting the news - as it happens - in the language they understand.

WINNING TEAM: Michel and Steven Euesden.

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Shooting for the All-Stars By Johanna Rebuffo GROWING up in a family of professional basketball players, becoming one was no shock at all. What was shocking, though, was having his Nº 20 jersey retired following a whirlwind 16-year career with the same team at the age of 41. Born and raised in Bahia Blanca, an Argentinian town full of basketball clubs, idolising NBA icon Michael Jordan, Manu Ginobili’s passion for basketball developed rapidly. Ginobili made his debut aged 18 in 1995 in the Argentinian basketball league and was traded to Italy shortly afterwards. He made the Argentinian National team in 1997. Although Ginobili entered the 1999 NBA draft and was selected by the San Antonio Spurs late in the second round, he stayed in Italy to help his team win several championships in the early 2000s, and was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) in both the Italian and Euro leagues. Ginobili joined the Spurs for the 200203 NBA season, won the Western Conference Rookie of the Month in March with the San Antonio Spurs and was named to the All-Rookie Second Team

despite injuries. Manu rose to prominence during the play-offs, becoming an integral part of Coach Popovich’s rotation, playing every game and winning his first championship in the USA. Manu made his debut in the AllStars team in 2005 and proved pivotal to winning San Antonio’s third championship. The 2010-11 season was full of accomplishments: he was the key player of his team, finished eighth on the NBA MVP ballot, was named an NBA All-Star once more, and was also named to the AllNBA third team. Ginobili’s fourth and final championship as a Spur came in 2013, playing the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals, winning 4-1 to claim the franchise’s fifth championship. After recovering from his 2016 surgery, Ginobili became the 15th second-rounder to reach 13,000 points and the second late-draft-pick with 13,000 career points and more than 1,300 three-pointers.

From 2017 to 2018, Ginobili became the first 39-year-old player to score 20plus points in a playoff game, the only 40-plus player in NBA history to have multiple 20-point games and to score 15-plus points in back-toback games since Michael Jordan.

That same year, Ginobili became the Spurs’ career leader in steals. He also passed Shaquille O’Neal becoming the sixth player with 217 playoff games played. After his 2018 retirement, the Spurs retired Ginobili’s Nº 20 jersey in a March 28 2019 ceremony.

Career highlights and awards • 4× NBA champion (2003, 2005, 2007, 2014) • 2× NBA All-Star (2005, 2011) • 2× All-NBA Third Team (2008, 2011) • NBA Sixth Man of the Year (2008) • NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2003) • No 20 retired by San Antonio Spurs • EuroLeague champion (2001) • EuroLeague Finals MVP (2001) • 2× EuroLeague Finals Top Scorer (2001, 2002) • All-EuroLeague First Team (2002) • Italian League champion (2001) • Italian Cup MVP (2002) • 2× Italian League MVP (2001, 2002) • 2× Olimpia de Oro (2003, 2004) • Diamond Konex Award (2010) • 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors (2008) • FIBA AmeriCup MVP (2001)

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There are regular special offers on the Oak Garden & Grill website www.oakgardenandgrill.com as well as their Facebook page which is regularly updated to keep customers on top of what is going on. To make a reservation at one of the best steak restaurants in southern Spain which is open from 6.30pm until midnight, seven days a week call 951 319 411.

OAK GARDEN & GRILL: Great food in fantastic surroundings.

Some of the best grilled meat on the Coast ALMOST adjacent to La Sala Banus is the newest venue in the La Sala group of restaurants, the Oak Garden & Grill. Set against the spectacular backdrop of La Concha, Oak Garden & Grill is situated in a garden of an Andalucian-style villa. Even though Oak is located in a prime location, right next to La Sala, the restaurant transmits a feeling of an intimate secret garden. Originally created with the concept of offering an upmarket open air Steak House, it has become a byword for the best of grilled meats in the area but it’s

not just about meat as there are some excellent seafood dishes including the amazing Alaskan King Crab legs which are fished under incredibly hazardous conditions and imported direct to the Oak and beautiful grilled Lobster. In addition there is a selection of starters and main courses suitable for vegetarians. So popular has the Oak Gardena & Grill become that just this year, a new roof has been constructed which means that not only will open air dining be possible in the summer, but as it gets cooler (or on wet days) it

will still be possible for diners to enjoy the restaurant. Not everyone can afford to dine every night on top quality steak, so for those with more modest finances who still want to see and be seen at this fine dining venue, La Sala Group has created a pizza corner, Villa Toscana in a part of the restaurant which was being underused. The quality of service and the general ambience of the Oak are to no small extent down to the friendly and knowledgeable staff and despite the fact that the restaurant has until 2019

closed down for the winter, all of the key personnel who help make it such an attractive place to visit continued to be employed and are now back in place following the April reopening. Steak of course takes pride of place on the menu and it is sourced from some of the best farms and butchers in Spain and Argentina. The Oak Grill has been designed to ensure your chosen dish is cooked to perfection by their expert chefs. The base of the grill is first lined with charcoal to ensure the

heat is maintained and diner’s steaks achieve that crisp, caramelised exterior with a pink or red centre that can only be achieved with charcoal. The Grill is then covered with aged Oak to create a unique flavour. The sugar crystals in the slow burning Oak caramelises in the intense heat, producing a fruity scent that combines with the distinctive smoky fragrance of the wood. Oak has been specially chosen for its distinct smoke flavour that enhances the dishes without being overpowering, even with the most delicate of meats.

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Interview - Bromley Estates Marbella - Hayley Bromley

Understanding our customers How long have you been operating in Spain? Our company’s inception was in 2009 during the depth of the recession, whilst most agencies were closing, we recognised an opportunity to offer a high-level of real estate services that seemingly had disappeared during the last property boom between 1999-2008. As a resident during those silver lined years I personally searched for a property myself and was both frustrated and dissatisfied with the services being offered. From that day forward a plan was formed to create a professional real estate company that would be forged with customer service in mind. Our objective was to surpass all customer expectations and offer an ethical, transparent service. Have you expanded much in that time? We have expanded considerably over the last decade. We started as a small family agency with a few property specialists; we worked professionally, diligently and with integrity. Our expansion has been entirely customer driven. In 2018 alone we received more than 8,500 enquiries, and sold nearly 400 properties. Our headquarters are located in El Rosario, Marbella, we also have 12

Development sales offices on the coast with plans to open a further five before the end of 2019. I feel that 10 years on, it would be fair to say we have accomplished what we set out to do in 2009. What do you think makes the business so successful? Delivering I believe there are severan unrivalled al factors that turn a busiHAYLEY BROMLEY: The entrepreneur established Bromley Estates ness into a well-oiled maservice to chine. Primarily we speak Marbella in 2009. customers of the customer, our objecbuying or selling. tive is to deliver an unrihighly knowledgeable in ments when investing in a property in valled service to cuscertain areas of the Cos- Spain. Lifestyle resorts are in much tomers whether they are ta del Sol. Not only do we demand and as a company we have buying or selling a property. Secondly, I have the largest team of multilingual learned what is important to our inbelieve that taking care of our employ- specialists on the coast, but also we vestors. We understand our customers ees and collaborators, is the best way to are the only real estate agency to also will continue to refine their property seget the most out of any individual, hap- have a promotion arm to our business. lection criteria based on key factors piness in the workplace is paramount. We currently exclusively represent 12 such as location, design and functionWe offer probably the most comprehen- of the finest, most desirable develop- ality of space along with excellent fasive real estate training course available ments on the Costa del Sol. cilities and amenities. Hence, for the What are your plans for the future? on the Costa del Sol. future we remain focused on selecting What is unique about your services? Before the end of 2019, we plan to innovative developments to meet the We have several ingredients that set launch five additional exclusive devel- client’s demands. us apart. Our marketing is aggressive opments. Over the years, we have acWe will in the near future be rolling and diversified. At Bromley Estates quired a considerable amount of loyal out an expansion of our luxury listing Marbella we can offer our services in customers who have great expecta- division, as with over 8,000 direct eight different languages. Our team tions in the product that we will be property enquiries per year we can has decades of experience in Real Es- bringing to the market in the coming drive our marketing of high end proptate on the Costa del Sol and we have year. The market has evolved and our erties to reach the target audience in a dedicated area specialists who are customers are clear on their require- relatively short time frame.

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HEN it comes to success, Bromley Estates Marbella, established since 2009, is known across the Costa del Sol for providing customer service which goes beyond their customers’ expectations. This commitment to customer care has led the company to become the Costa del Sol’s leading real estate agency delivering unrivalled service to its international customer base, through loyalty and integrity. With a multilingual team of over 60 people, speaking eight different languages, Bromley

Bromley Estates Marbella Estates Marbella is able to provide real estate services in your language of choice, ensuring that its customers’ property needs are met and any concerns understood. All their staff are trained on a regular basis and are fully up-to-date with the latest new developments, luxury listings and all financial and legal aspects pertaining to the real estate sector. In addition, Bromley Estates Marbella partners with some of the most reputable legal and fi-

nancial firms to ensure all their customers’ legal and financial requirements are dealt with professionally. Bromley Estates Marbella represents properties for sale from private vendors, national developers and banks on the Costa del Sol. Having built a solid reputation over the years, Bromley Estates Marbella has managed to outpace the overall trend in sales, sourcing only the best properties and new developments to help its clients find

their ideal property, whether holiday homes, permanent residences or investment opportunities. Bromley Estates Marbella is a modern day real estate company with old fashioned values. Last year it helped nearly 400 international customers succeed in finding their ideal property. Bromley Estates Marbella also provides a complete After Sales Service to ensure customer satisfaction. It is

dedicated to maintaining a professional service before, during and after your property purchase, and is here to assist you with any requests you have and will direct to the most reputable of companies. The company can help with property and health insurance, currency exchange, builders, furniture packages, obtaining an NIE number, interior design, kitchen supplies, water and electricity connections, handymen, advice on schools and banking, property management, satellite and internet services, as well as car rental to name but a few!

So for exceptional properties and customer service, contact Bromley Estates Marbella at Urbanisacion El Rosario, CN340, Km 188, Marbella, Malaga 29603, or call 952 939 460, or email info@bromleyestatesmarbella.com.

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Premium care for your pooch T

HE TINY DOG HOTEL, a five-star location where tiny dogs rule, is the definition of success; having just won an award for best dog groomer in Spain. The Tiny Dog Hotel is an exclusive homely day care centre and hotel for small breed dogs in the heart of Marbella and has been operating since 2007. Owners Jose Antonio and Antoinette are dedicated and experienced dog professionals with a genuine passion for caring your pets and their commitment shows in their results; with the business growing by 20 to 30 per cent a year. Their team of five groomers, managers, and assistants make sure your pooch receives the best treatment, and offer a wide range of services. Asked what he thinks makes the Tiny Dog Hotel so successful, Jose explained: “Our dedication to quality, safety, health, and the happiness of our clients, their pets and our staff.” All animals must be microchipped, vaccinated, and sociable, meaning your pet is sure to be in good company while you are away. The Tiny Dog Hotel’s homely, cage and stress-free setting allows tiny dogs the opportunity to socialise and play under the watchful eye of staff, while receiving all the attention, exercise and affection they need. The Tiny Dog Hotel offers accommodation, doggy day care, and spa facilities for man’s best friends smaller than eight kilos. Spread across 6,000 square metres, the building provides colourful and stimulating decor, mini-suites, indoor recreation areas, a dog gym, a patio with chill-out beds and a multitude of toys. Outside are a vast tropical garden and secure fenced ar-

AWARD-WINNING: Antoinette and Jose (centre) collect the best dog groomer award.

PLAY TIME: The Tiny Dog Hotel takes excellent care of your pets. eas, all of which make up a fantastic residential and homecare day-care centre. Whether for short stays or longer periods, Tiny Dog Hotel is the best option for your pet. They provide everything from air-conditioned suites and Reiki treatments to daily walks, photo services, email reports and the very best hygiene. The atmosphere is relaxed and caring so that all guests feel at home and can enjoy

their holidays without missing their owners. For those who work or are out for long periods in the day but still want their pooches to enjoy play and companionship, consider dog day care. Even for those who wish to spend the occasional long day out, your animal friend can be dropped in to the Tiny Dog Hotel’s day-care service, which provides a fun, healthy and engaging environment filled with

lots of activities and attention. By days-end you and your best friend will come home feeling relaxed and happy knowing that you both had a great day. Services include supervised playtime at the day care centre and outings in the garden. There is also a 24hour stand-by vet in case of emergency, video supervision, and an hour-an-a-half walk for early morning drop offs. Also, we all know how much

What to pack: • A vaccination booklet • Any medicine your pet needs and directions for use • A t-shirt or clothes you have previously worn or a jumper if your dog gets chilly • Food if you wish and a very special toy if they have one Hotel facilities: • Air-conditioned hotel facilities with comfortable mini-suites • Filtered, ozonised drinking water and healthy organic daily meals • Daily exercise includes a one-and-a-half hour walk, treadmill or aqua-gym workout • Supervised playtime and 24-hour stand by vet in case of emergency • Free weekly washings for stays of one week or more.

our furry friends add to our lives, so why not give something back with a spa or pampering session? The Tiny Dog Hotel’s Spa and Pamper Day is a morning full of exercise, playtime with friends, cuddles with staff, a good meal and a well-deserved siesta. In the afternoon, the Spa and Pamper day includes a warm and relaxing spa bath, followed by a soothing grooming session, and a taxi home feeling and looking awesome. Specially-conceived to provide a fun, calm, relaxing and safe environment, your pet can leave groomed, indulged and revitalised. Why not take advantage of great offers, including reduced grooming prices while boarding, free grooming for every 10 sessions, free training and grooming gatherings, and free individual training advice. The Tiny Dog Hotel even has plans to expand with a speciality boutique for tiny dogs, a pet cemetery, and a rehabilitation pool.

For more information, or to book your pet in, visit www.tinydoghotel.com, or drop in seven days a week from 8.30am to 8pm at Villa Cristina, Ctra de Ojen km 1,5 sn, 29602 Marbella. Alternatively, to speak to one of their caring team, call 952 773 961 or email info@tinydoghotel.com.

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Gates’ missed windows of opportunity BILL GATES is one of the world’s richest people, but his rise to today’s dizzy heights was not a simple one. In fact, he watched his first company crumble. Gates entered the entrepreneurial scene with a company called Traf-OData, which aimed to process and analyse the data from roadside counters and create reports for traffic engineers. He attempted to sell the idea alongside his business partner, Paul Allen, but the product bombed. Allen later said it was ‘a good idea with a flawed business model.’ However, the failure did not hold Gates back from exploring new opportunities, and a few years later, he created his first Microsoft product, and forged a new path to success. But even after taking

Microsoft from a two-man start-up into a tech juggernaut worth hundreds of billions of dollars as CEO for nearly 25 years before stepping down in 2000, Gates still made mistakes along the way. According to Brad Silverberg, who spent nine years as Microsoft’s SVP from 1990, Gates made two critical mistakes which hindered the company's business in some ways: firstly his weak lobbying efforts, and secondly his failure to take advantage of the internet early on. Silverberg claims Gates did not engage - either himself or the company in the political process early enough. When Microsoft’s competitors were effectively lobbying the government, Gate’s attitude was ‘the government should just go

away and leave Microsoft alone.’ This approach of not constructively engaging the government and concerned politicians, of not alleviating concerns which were not going to go away, was a reported disaster. The US federal government, many states, and the EU all essentially declared war on Microsoft, and Microsoft paid a devastating price. Gates is also accused of underestimating the Internet and failing to come up with an approach which kept Windows and Microsoft’s systems strategy at the forefront. This resulted in the company’s strategic position declining in the 2000s. Though Microsoft has since come to grips with the new reality and made

SHARE OF FAILURES: Tycoon Bill Gates endured a rocky road to success. necessary changes. Ignoring search engines is an admission Gates himself has made, reportedly saying ‘Google kicked our butts.’ Gates introduced MSN Search in the same year as Larry Page and Sergey Brin launched a small company called Google, in 1998. Google was fast, innovative, and delivered rele-

vant results. MSN Search was none of the above, according to Nick Scheidies, writer for Income Diary, a web blog which offers advice on how to earn money online. Microsoft was also slammed for not bothering to develop a search engine of its own, and instead used results from Inktomi, an existing search engine.

And then, when Gates stepped down as CEO in 2000, he put the company in the hands of his longtime friend Steve Ballmer. It is said that under Ballmer, Microsoft failed to make the most of market opportunities like social networking, oversaw failed product releases like Zune, made bad investments, and halved the value of shares.

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Advertising Feature

Nueva Andalucia’s buying and selling experts

PERATING in Spain since 1981, Nordica Marbella are experts in matching dream homes to buyers in Marbella, Puerto Banus, and Nueva Andalucia. Their multilingual team is dedicated to looking after their clients, be they homebuyers, homeowners or people searching for short or long-term rentals. With a longstanding reputation and experience, they know Marbella, and especially the Nueva Andalucia area, like the back of their hand, and are proud to be called the Nueva Andalucia property specialists. Nordica Marbella is led by Peter Rosen Sales, from Gothenburg, Sweden, who has lived in Marbella since 1981. He earned his stripes in the business working with his father and brother at Nordica, which his father had founded in the early 80’s. Peter leads the sales team by example and loves the interaction with clients, but has also built up longstanding relationships with banks and developers. He explains: “You meet such varied and interesting people, and you want to do right by them, so we only source properties that we would be confident to sell on for them again.” At his side is wife Anna-Lena Rosen, who provides the main structure within the office. Dearly loved by their staff, she and Peter have succeeded not only in building a solid company, but also in creating a fantastic working atmosphere. In their time running Nordica Marbella, Peter and Anna-Lena have gone from success to success, expanding from one office to four in the Nueva Andalucia area. They say the key to their achievements is their ‘all under one roof’ service, including buying, selling, renting, housekeeping, and maintenance. Nordica Marbella also pride themselves on providing agents you trust and like dealing with and have developed a longstanding relationship with many of their clients. Their team knows exactly what their clients’ requirements and preferences are, so they are able to help them quickly and efficiently. A good agent develops an intuitive ability to understand what his or her clients are look-

ing for, but ‘getting it’ is also based on a very personal and service-driven approach. Rather than explain their needs and wishes to all kinds of different agents many times over, a lot of Nordica Marbella’s clients go to them because they know they have a good understanding of what they are looking for and like the way they take care of them. They pride themselves on offering a very broad range of attractively priced properties of good quality and location, but should you spot a home you like with another agent they would still be very pleased to contact them on your behalf, obtain all the information required and arrange for viewings. Another of Nordica Marbella’s most unique services involves offering clients a free of charge home styling package, which can dramatically boost chances of a quick sale. The service, sometimes known as home staging, house doctoring, or interior design service, is on hand to help style your property. As a real estate agency with over 30 years’ experience, Nordica Marbella have dealt with thousands of properties and started to look at the influence of design and property dressing and how they could increase the chance of a sale with a few simple design changes. Anna-Lena explains: “At Nordica we pride ourselves on helping buyers to find their perfect property, but realise that sellers often need more help than simply showing their property. We want to support our sellers as much as we can to sell their properties quickly and at the highest price possible. We always offer tips and advice for improving the prospect of a sale, but now with this new home styling service we can give practical support to make the property really desirable and appeal to the right buyer.” Their in-depth knowledge of the area sets them apart, working only in the Marbella to Nueva Andalucia area. The group say they plan to simply keep doing what they are doing and always with the motto, ‘the only way to do great work is to love what you do!”

EXPERT HANDS: Anna-Lena and Peter have been buying and selling homes on the Costa del Sol for decades.

So if you would like help with advice or in finding the right property for your needs, you will find a friendly yet professional team with the skills and the desire to be of service. Visit their head office on Avenida del Prado S/N, Cr Lorcrigolf, Premises 5 and 6, Supermanzana G, Nueva Andalucia, Marbella.

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Spain’s sporting Tips for a successful retirement aces S S PAIN is famous for many things - from wine and food, to sun and scenery - but there is another area the country is well-known for; sport. One of Spain’s most-loved exports, Rafael Nadal, is currently ranked number two in the world in men’s singles tennis. The player has won 17 world grand slam titles, the second most in history for a male player. Similarly, Gerard Pique has achieved global success, representing Spain’s football team 107 times, as well as playing centre-back for Barcelona FC. The player was part of the team to win both the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2012 UEFA Euro. Finally, Mireia Belmonte, one of Spain’s most accomplished swimmers, has been representing her country at the highest levels since she was a teenager. The athlete is the first female Olympic champion in the history of SUCCESS: Rafael Nadal has won 17 Spain and considered to be the greatgrand slam titles. est Spanish swimmer of all time.

PAIN is one of the world’s best-loved destinations for retirement, and with good

reason. Whether it is the weather, scenery, food, wine, or people, Spain is a country full of warmth, fun, and adventure. But after making the decision to pack up in their own countries and move to Spain, is there anything expatriates can do to ensure a successful transition and retirement in Spain? According to moving company Globexs, ways to ensure maximum quality of life include hunting around for a property in a location you love, but one which is not necessarily the most expensive. Experts say this will help keep initial home-buying costs down and could also keep the cost of living down if you live nearer to independent or smaller bars and restaurants. Once you have found your dream home and begin settling in, the site

BE HAPPY: Spain is a great place to retire to. recommends taking online or in-person language classes to be able to pick up a little of the language. This can ensure success in conversation, at the supermarket and at the bar.

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Advertising Feature

Stay cool and carry on O

NE of the reasons that many people move to Spain is because of the sun but although it is great to be warm, it can also be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous if things become too hot. This is not a problem if you call upon the services of Solar Shade, a company which is currently celebrating its 10th year in business. They specialise in reducing heat and harmful UV rays in the house, the car or indeed anywhere that has external glass. Whilst air conditioning can make life easier when driving during the summer, the company offers the opportunity to reduce the heat by up to 63 per cent within any car left out in the sun and UV rays are cut by 99 per cent. That’s not all however as the addition of window tinting not only cuts down the effect of the sun’s glare but also makes things safer in the unfortunate event that you have an accident as the risk of flying glass is minimised. Every year there are ‘horror stories’ about animals being left in cars and suffering from extreme heat exhaustion and although all animals should be properly cared for, in the event that you have to leave them for a short period, you can be comfortable in the knowledge the heat in the car has been dramatically reduced. There is also a financial advantage to adding window tinting as it cuts the amount of fuel used for air conditioning, it prevents interior fading and makes it just that bit more difficult for thieves to break in as the

BODY WRAPPING: Make your car look brand new.

TRAINING: Various courses are available.

Window tinting cuts the glare. glass is toughened. Clearly what is good for a car is also good for buildings and rather than have to pull your curtains to cut out glare and allow you to watch TV, use your phone, tablet or PC, a single application will solve the problem immediately. Glass curtains and room extensions are a blessing but can also be a curse if they actually make a room too hot and with window shading, the problem is not only resolved but also increases your privacy as it is much more difficult for passers-by or potential burglars to see in. All of the benefits of reduced heat and exposure to UV rays as enjoyed in a car are also transferred to the home and in fact even in the colder months the shading has the additional benefit of stopping heat loss. It’s not just for houses and apartments but this is an ideal option for commercial properties especially offices as well as caravans and boats and anywhere that expensive equipment or fabric

could be damaged by the long term effects of the sun. The films can be installed either inside or outside of a property, are covered by a manufacturer’s warranty of up to 10 years and are scratch resistant for general cleaning. There is another alternative if you just have a relatively small area that catches the sun at certain times of the day and that is the installation of solar blinds which are an effective way to block out heat and glare in your rooms without blocking out the view. You can simply pull down the blinds to cut out the glare on your equipment or

drop them all the way down to reduce the ambient temperature in the room and of course the danger from UV rays. As a logical extension of the window tinting, the company also offers a range of what is known as body wrapping for vehicles which is a particularly cost effective way of giving a commercial vehicle a special identity to promote your business. It is possible to produce custom-made designs to be used when wrapping the vehicle and when professionally applied, not only is the vehicle a travelling billboard, the paintwork is also protected so that when the time comes to replace the vehicle it is still in pristine condition. You don’t have to be in business if you want your car wrapped as it can actually

be more cost effective than respraying body panels or if you want to make your car look brand new with a complete change of colour, then this would be a great option. So effective are the different options offered by Solar Shade that they have received a large number of approaches from people who can see the potential for running their own business based on the options supplied by the company. To this end therefore, they have set up a training centre where students can attend over a one to five-day period depending upon the number of different options the person requires. This is generally on a one to one tuition basis and by attending one or more of the courses this could be the start of a whole new career.

For information about all of the services offered by Solar Shade and the many areas they cover, visit their very detailed and informative website at www.solarshade.es, catch up with latest news on their Facebook page, email Ian@SolarShadeTinting.com or call him on +34 644 546 176.

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Advertising Feature

E R N A N D O MORENO is a family company dedicated to the supply of interior items and materials to the construction sector as well as to individual customers. Founded more than 50 years ago, the company has considerable experience in this area which has allowed it to grow, in both size and quality of service, always adapting to the needs of its customers. The firm Fernando Moreno, aims to offer its customers a range of products for the home. From the foundations of the house, aggregates and concrete, going through to materials for construction, ceramics and finishings. Fernando Moreno is also known for its exceptional kitchens, bathrooms, and furniture. The kitchen and the bathroom are two key rooms in any home. They add personality to a house, offering a wide range of styles and making it possible to put your own stamp on a property. This is where tiles, finishes, materials and designs from the more traditional and rustic to the most modern and sophisticated come into play. Fernando Moreno, distributors of national and international firms specialised in ‘dressing’ these rooms, offers a personalised customer service, always looking for the best option for every need. In the kitchen area they work with Doimo Cucine and Ernestomeda, all offering modern designs with original and avant-garde lines. In the bathroom area, signature brands such as Kaldewei and Jacuzzi are well represented, as well as all important elements for the bathroom, such as toilets, furniture, screens, radiators, and taps. The latest innovations in the world of tiles come from the Inalco, Cotto D’este, Matimex and Florim, among

Everything for the home

BEST BRANDS: Fernando Moreno offer a wide variety of sofas and armchairs to choose from.

other quality firms. Also, do not forget that getting a good night’s sleep is a way to recharge physically and psychologically from the wear and tear of daily activity. Beds, armchairs and sofas become the perfect ally of rest at any time of day, hence the importance of choosing divans, mattresses and other furniture to facilitate sleep. At Fernando Moreno you have at your disposal the best brands in the market, as well as expert advisors who will help you find the

most suitable product for your relaxation needs. Amongst the stock on offer are items of furniture from the best-known bed firms, including Auping, Treca, Vispring and Pauly. For those looking for a restful seat for the day time, customers can choose between Himolla and Stressless, leading brands in armchair manufacture, offering a wide variety of sofas and armchairs to choose from. Of course, sunshine keeps us happy and encourages us to go out and expand the

world in which you live, moving much of your daily activity outdoors. This is where well-presented gardens and terraces can make a big difference. The right choice of outdoor furniture is important, from tables, chairs, lighting, sunbeds, barbecues (Broil King BBQ), and umbrellas; there is no better place to view or receive advice than at the store Fernando Moreno. They offer a large, specialised catalogue in which, you will, without doubt, be able to find the

products that best suit your needs. Distributors for companies such as Cane-Line, Royal Botania, Skyline Design, Kettal, Point, Unopiu and Vondom, among others, Fernando Moreno offers a selection of classic, contemporary and modern collections with a common goal; to combine design, comfort, quality, functionality and durability. Fernando Moreno offers its clients personalised attention and options for all different budgets.

Come to Fernando Moreno and discover the wide world they have for your home at C / Gorrion, s/n 29670 San Pedro Alcantara. Their commercial timetable means the store is open throughout the day, not closing at midday. Alternatively, call 952 780 006, email info@fernandomoreno.es or visit www.fernandomoreno.es.

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Advertising Feature

A N I C E CAMERON PENNIE is an experienced educator with a strong Early Years background and a commitment to educating children on the Costa del Sol to the highest standards at Cameron International Primary School. Her Scottish heritage and experience strongly influences her leadership, and her exemplary attention to detail to care for her students have given her an excellent reputation. Cameron International Primary School is based in San Roque Club and provides a safe, inspiring, personalised and fun learning environment for international students to learn. The school employs highly qualified, motivated and committed teachers, who demonstrate and model the core values of the school. All members of staff are DBS certified and have current and robust safeguarding practice. Subsequently, the school also provides medical provision for their students if and when required. The school’s core values are driven by their International Primary Curriculum personal goals; Enquiry, Adaptability, Morality, Resilience, Thoughtfulness, Communication, Respect and Cooperation and these goals are fundamental to the children’s day-to-day school experience. The children are taught English and Maths through the English National Frameworks and a wide variety of subjects through the themed units of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC). The International Primary Curriculum is a curriculum that is being used in over 1,800 schools in over 90 countries around the world. It was launched in 2000 having been created by a team of leading experts in children’s learning from around the world. The goal of the IPC is for children to focus upon a

PRIMARY SCHOOL: Provides a safe, inspiring, personalised and fun learning environment.

International education to the highest standards combination of academic, personal and international learning and through the IPC, develop all the skills children will need in order to confidently face the world of tomorrow. Children learn through a series of IPC units of work. Each unit of work has a theme that today’s children find interesting and relevant. Children learn many of their subjects through this one common theme so that their learning has meaning to them. Linking subjects means

The school offers a range of extracurricular activities. that children can make lots of connections with their learning. The more connections the brain can make, the better a child can learn. The learning that the children do within that theme has very distinct outcomes to ensure

that children are learning exactly what they need to. Nobody can predict the nature of work and life opportunities that will be available for our children in the future. Many of the jobs don’t yet exist! The IPC focuses on a skills based approach to prepare our children for the fast changing world they will be living in. The teachers monitor the children’s learning via a combination of evidencebased portfolio work, summative and formative as-

For more information, or to arrange a visit, contact 956 797 078, or visit www.cameroninternationalprimaryschool.com. The school is located at Calle Mesilla del Diente, San Roque Commercial Centre, San Roque.

Janice Cameron Pennie.

sessment, yet allowing their students to take responsibility for their own learning and how to progress. Cameron International School also offers a fantastic range of extra-curricular activities; Dance, Golf, Athletics, Music, Drama, Taekwondo to name a few and provide a homework club. The school has fully-equipped, purpose built classrooms, two gymnasiums, a library, ICT suite and the school guarantees excellent staff to pupil ratios to ensure the quality of their provision.

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Helpful habits

E may often assume success is the result of hard work, attention to detail and long hours. But it seems that some of the worldâ€™s most successful people have in common a series of habits which might hold a clue to what it takes to get ahead. One such custom is getting up early. Entrepreneurs such as Gordon Ramsay and Apple CEO Tim Cook are both said to be early risers, with Cook even setting his alarm for 3.45am each morning. Early bird enthusiasts claim the practice allows them to pack more into each day, as well as taking advantage of a time when they are naturally more alert to do their best work. Another habit recommended by Ramsay, and similarly shared by many other successful people, is exercise. The chef is well-known for his love of fitness, running multiple marathons around the world. Meanwhile, former US president Barack Obama was alGORDON RAMSAY: so said to be an exercise The chef credits buff, regularly still playing rising early and full games of basketball bestaying fit for his tween meetings at the White success. House.

CATCHING UP: Successful friendships offer various health benefits.

Itâ€™s good to talk

CCORDING to scientists, successful friendships can have a positive aspect on our health, helping to prevent everything from depression and high blood pressure to obesity. But as we get older, becoming busier with work and family or even moving to another country, it can sometimes seem a challenge to start all over again and make new friends. Is there a key therefore to securing new friendships or strengthening our existing ones, even across countries? While it can sometimes seem

daunting to meet new people if you are new to a place, one way to tackle this issue is by joining a club or group centred on something you really enjoy. The focus on an activity takes the pressure off conversation, while you increase your chance of meeting likeminded people by picking something you are passionate about. Spain offers a multitude of opportunities to try something new from conversational language classes to cooking, photography, paddle boarding, hiking, or travel groups.

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Advertising Feature

New Year and new additions to El Oceano Beach Hotel

VERY year the family that runs the boutique El Oceano Beach Hotel closes from New Year to Easter so that both those working there and the hotel can have a rest. As Easter was late in April, all of the work was completed to allow for an early April opening which saw redecoration, a new pool bar, the adding of a number of dishes to both the lunch and a la Carte menus. It was more than 18 years ago that husband and wife John and Lorraine Palmer took over an almost empty hotel with a small restaurant and transformed it into the El Oceano Beach Hotel and Spa which is so popular that it welcomes hundreds of returning guests each season. It’s a real family affair with daughter Jordana in charge of interior design, whilst son-in-law Glenn is front of house. Over the years, the family have ploughed a great deal of money into making this one of the most attractive boutique hotels on the coast (although in fairness it’s a good size with 55 bedrooms, but it warrants the name as the guest facilities are personal and of the highest individual standard). Not only is the family back looking after the hotel but the

EL OCEANO: It’s a real family affair. majority of long-serving staff including Lorraine’s right hand lady Jan Jones and in-house boutique owner Teresa Leaver are back again to offer the very personal service that El Oceano is so respected for. The restaurant with panoramic views of the Mediterranean can accommodate 200 covers and the hotel is so popular with wedding parties that the owners try to make sure that they only accept one wedding a week in order to ensure that holiday guests are not disturbed. When you dine at El Oceano you know that you are going to enjoy some superb cuisine but first, it is common practice to visit the bar with its professional mixologists serving hand shak-

en classic martinis and contemporary cocktails and after a few drinks, why drive home? Often the restaurant offers guests the chance to enjoy music from some of the best performers on the Costa del Sol at no additional cost and on Sunday there is the option of a traditional roast dinner. The hotel has a number of bright public rooms, bars inside and out, two swimming pools, access to the beach and of course a first class restaurant for which they employ three main chefs who rotate with five days on and two days off to ensure that every service is presented immaculately and without calling upon ‘juniors’ to look after service when one of the chefs

take a break. El Oceano Beach Hotel is located midway between Fuengirola and Marbella, so it’s very easy to visit many of the attractions along the Costa del Sol and for many a day in Puerto Banus is a must This jewel of a hotel gives the feeling of staying in your very own seafront residence, a truly unique and wonderful place. For the ladies, there is a superb beauty centre, where their beauty therapists, hairdressers and nail technicians are qualified to provide a wonderful menu of luxurious treatments. They also boast an indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi and swim-spa so why not pop in and take a look, but be prepared to be impressed? Some suites have external hot tubs overlooking the Mediterranean and the Elemis Spa and Hairdressers attracts guests as well as external visitors. The Spa building also contains a small number of well-furnished self-contained apartments for guests who like to have a self-catering option. El Oceano attracts and keeps guests due to the exceptional surrounding coupled with attention to detail and excellent service as well as an easy to access car park.

Having achieved so much with the hotel, Lorraine in particular wanted to give something back to the community in which she is so involved and remembering the worry that she had when she had to be checked for Breast Cancer, she has set up the Positively Pink charity. Although it didn’t take too long for the results to show that she was clear, she vowed that she would do everything she could to make life easier for women on the Costa del Sol who might be worried about finding out if they have a problem. Now, with a small group of unpaid volunteers, the Positively Pink Charity arranges for regular checks for Breast Cancer and over the years thousands of women have been checked and whenever the news is bad, there is always someone from the charity on hand to give advice or simply listen. Recently she has also become involved in helping men check for Prostate Cancer with the Positively Blue charity and arranged the first smear testing in Calahonda last March. Money is always difficult to come by but through the annual Positively Pink Ball and other events the charity has raised tens of thousands of euros to help those along the coast.

To find out more about the hotel visit www.oceanohotel.com.

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Oscar winner Almodovar

ONE of the greatest success stories is the influence Spain has had on the world of cinema down the years. It has been the setting for some wonderful movies, but has more recently given the world great acting and directing talent. We take a look at some of the biggest success stories in out Spain on Celluloid features… FOR many years Hollywood led the way when it came to cinema, with many major studios, actors and directors hailing from across the pond. While Spain has always had its fair share of creative talent; Pablo Picasso, Federico Garcia Lorca and Miguel de Cervantes, with Pedro Almodovar came Spain’s fame for it’s directorial and cinematic talents. The Ciudad Real-born director, screenwriter and producer came of age during ‘La Movida Madrileña,’ Spain’s artistic renaissance after the

end of the Franco era. After establishing his own production company in 1986, Almodovar went on to achieve international recognition for his film Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, which was nominated for an Oscar in 1988. Since then, he has won two Academy Awards, one for All about My Mother in 1999, and Talk to Her in 2002, for which he won Best Original Screenplay. Acclaimed as one of the most internationally successful Spanish filmmakers, Almodovar and

his films have gained worldwide interest and developed a cult following. As well as his Oscars he has won five British Academy Film Awards, six European Film Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, nine Goya Awards and four prizes at the Cannes Film Festival. In 1997, Almodovar received the French Legion of Honour, followed by the Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts by the Spanish Ministry of Cul-

NEW RELEASE: Almodovar’s next film stars Penelope Cruz.

ture in 1999. He was elected a Foreign Honorary Member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2001 and received an honorary doctoral degree in 2009 from Harvard University in addition to an honorary doctoral degree from the University of Oxford in 2016 for his contribution to the arts.

In 2013, he received an honorary European Film Academy Achievement in World Cinema Award. In January 2017 he was named as president of the Jury for the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. His new film, Dolor y Gloria (Pain and Glory), starring Penelope Cruz and Antonio Banderas, was released in Spanish cinemas on March 22.

Advertising Feature

INTAGEPOINT MARBELLA has been providing everything for the home on the Costa del Sol for years. From exceptional interior design services and garden design, to sourcing, supplying and transporting furniture and accessories, Vintagepoint is the place to turn to for a beautiful home. For interior design and home styling, the business’s Diana Dominique Interiors service, headed up by Dominique Lindberg, can provide all the help you need, from redecorating one room to styling a whole home ahead of selling. Sourcing furniture and decorations can be both time consuming and difficult. The company works with more than 20 brands from all over Europe, with different price ranges and styles to ensure that they meet each client’s expectations. As a client you can decide yourself how big a part of a role you want to play. Diana Dominique Interiors are happy to work together with clients who have a clear image of what

Exquisite interiors on the Costa del Sol

INTERIOR DESIGN: Vintagepoint Marbella and Diana Dominique Interiors offer a home you love. they want, as well as clients who leave vision in their hands. Their process usually starts with getting to know you, talking about needs, expectations, visions and dreams. Since

each situation and client is different this is a very important first step. Secondly the service will create mood boards to make their vision come alive, using both inspirational pic-

The store also stocks Artwood, Vical, Eichholtz, Thai Natura, and Artelore Home. Their freight service also makes frequent trips between Sweden and Spain ensuring you always have the Scandinavian furniture and accessories you love. For more information, visit Vintagepoint Marbella at Poligono Industrial Nueva Campana, Local 85, 29660 Nueva Andalucia, Monday to Friday 10am to 2pm and 3.30pm to 6pm. Alternatively, visit www.vintagepoint.es, or call Therese on 652 295 226.

tures, specific furniture pieces and general ideas to show you what the finished look, feel and vibe will be like. After this, Diana Dominique Interiors talk with clients again, going through possible changes, including what you like and do not like. As the mood board primarily works as a first suggestion, everything is possible and the team can easily adapt to the client’s wants and needs. Once both sides are on the same page, Diana Dominique Interiors begin ordering your pieces, and normally within six weeks you will be able to enjoy your new space. Diana Dominique Interiors and Vintagepoint Marbella are proud suppliers of various high-end design brands, including beds by Scapa and Bedcomfort. Beds by Scapa is a Swedish manufacturer making superb beds and sofas since 1959, while Bedcomfort offers luxurious handmade beds from Gothenburg, Sweden. Their customised beds are perfect for the client with specific needs and wishes.

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Interview with Therese Lindberg, Head Designer, Diana Dominique Interiors

A dedicated gardener WHAT made you move to Spain? The Swedish family Lindberg first came to Marbella in 1974, when my father, Curt, decided to explore new possibilities in an up and coming area. What was it like moving to a new country? When my family moved here, real estate and development was the natural choice. The Lindberg children got a good look at what it means to be an entrepreneur in a new country and certainly acquired a taste for adventure. A love for Spain and its nature, people and culture came rapidly afterwards. What was your business inspiration?

For many years, my father dedicated himself to real estate. Later, he and my mother opened the famous Los Bandidos restaurant, now in its 33rd year under my mother Jillâ€™s devoted management. This was a huge inspiration for the rest of the family. How did you get in to design? For most of my life I have been commuting between Sweden and Spain, working at different periods in the family business, but mainly developing my own garden and decor business with my builder husband, Lennart in Sweden. When did you start your b u s i ne s s in Spain?

We are fortunate to be able to work together as a family. Seven years ago, Lennart and I decided to leave Sweden with the childen for good and set up shop in Marbella. The garden centre and adjoining hotel was sold together with almost all personal belongings; a blank sheet. Being a dedicated gardener, continuing working with plants was essential to me, and I started doing designs and taking on smaller projects, as well as doing lectures on Mediterranean gardening, while Lennart contin-

ued with renovations. How did it develop to the store and transport service you have now? Very soon after beginning our business here, a need for supplies from Europe and Sweden developed, as well as a demand in Sweden for Spanish plants and decor. Lennart focused on driving up and down with goods through Europe, and the freight company was born. How have you grown in that time? More products and services were added over time, and a furniture showroom was opened. In recent years, the children have grown up and our daughter, Dominique, now handles most of

THERESE LINDBERG: The designer has a passion for garden and interiors. the interior design projects while I work with outdoor commissions and furniture sales. One thing has led to another, and Vintagepoint now operates a regular transport service to Sweden, storage and a furniture

showroom with brands from many countries, design and sourcing services. We are very fortunate people, to be able to work together as a family, meeting great people, and doing things we love, in one of the best places on earth.

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Advertising Feature

Buy today, enjoy tonight with Imperial Furniture T

O N Y V E E K S , owner of Imperial Furniture, tells us his wonderful story of what brought him to the Costa del Sol. His love for the Costa del Sol began when he arrived here 20 years ago and went to visit a client at La Cañada shopping centre. Tony has been in the furniture industry all his life. His passion began in Holland, where he was fascinated by antique furniture. He started collecting woods such as teak and oak and turning them into antique-like pieces of furniture which he sold throughout Europe as wholesale. Tony then got involved in retail. He became obsessed with rustic furniture and began to make custom-made pieces for his clients. Tony travelled to East Germany before partnering with another company to open a factory in Poland, where he found great hard-working artisans. He started to ship his products to Holland and eventually opened his own factory with more than 1,000 employers.

Interior design services at affordable prices.

TONY VEEKS: Has been in the furniture industry all his life.

IMPERIAL FURNITURE: Tony has adapted to his customers’ needs for style and design.

Tony’s devotion translated into 500 rustic-themed shops all over Europe. In 2001 he opened his headquarters in Romania, where he shipped to 1,500 shops throughout Europe. This soon became unbearable and he had the opportunity to sell his business in northern Europe. Tony relocated to the Costa del Sol where he opened an outlet store in Algeciras in 2010, supplying Holland and China. In 2012 he opened Imperial Furniture store in San Pedro de Alcantara and later decided to close his outlet in Algeciras. The company continued to grow as Tony adapted to his customers’ needs for style and design, offering interior design services at affordable prices. He has been working with highly professional staff who have consistently ensured the furniture was delivered from store to house.

Imperial Furniture has partnered with the Dutch outdoor product maker Life Outdoors Living, which produces all-weather, high quality, no maintenance furniture. Tel. 952 782 267 • www.imperialfurniture.es

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LIFE OUTDOOR LIVING has entered into a partnership with IMPERIAL FURNITURE. In our 2000m2 showroom we have reserved 500m2 for this unique concept. Life works with its own models and designs. The entire collection is produced under own supervision and is tested on durability, quality and functionality with care. The collection is aimed at comfort, functionality and user-friendliness. In every season the outdoor furniture can serve as an addition to your home interior and form a whole with the garden, the terrace and the sun lounge. Life supplies the best leisure furniture, manufactured from high-quality materials and assembled with the greatest care. All our products are 100% weatherproof.

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Advertising Feature

OSTA VAPOR, the largest vaping shop on the Costa del Sol, sells only the best quality products, original brands; products that are functional, practical, easy to use and work. Their batteries, chargers and all electronic devices have a three-month guarantee, while their knowledgeable and dedicated team speak Spanish, British, and Finnish. Their great group of customer care specialists vape themselves, and some have quit smoking and are on hand to offer advice depending on your needs; whether you hope to quit smoking, are wanting to reduce nicotine or vaping just because you like it with our exquisite flavours. Costa Vapor work for their customers, offering deals on one liquid line each week. Their loyalty card, offers a stamp for every €10 purchase, with 10 stamps promising customers €10 to spend in store. Once a month, the company also offers specials from within its product range, including liquids, batteries, and vapes. E-cigarettes have been credited by some as the ideal alternative for those smokers who find it hard to totally kick the habit of reaching for their cigarette. This concept has taken many countries by storm and now smokers can enjoy the sensation of smoking without the underlying dangers. Costa Vapor in Fuengirola stock the largest selection of ecigarettes on the Costa del Sol and they can offer clients more than 300 different flavours of vapour to choose from. Teemu Laitinen, owner of Costa Vapor, came over from Finland for a summer four years ago, and began working at the store. Instead of going home at the end of summer as planned, Teemu had such passion for his job he was convinced to stay. He began to take on more and more responsibility until the shop’s previous owner eventually moved back to Finland and Teemu took over completely.

Biggest on the Costa del Sol

COSTA VAPOR: Offering a great variety of products at incredible prices.

Visit the store for the best advice on what is suitable for you.

Since then Costa Vapor has found that the demand has been so great that it can now offer very competitive prices to its clients, due to the wide range that it carries. There are also many special offers and starter kits to help beginners choose the correct product, as well as many models and sizes that will fit your pocket both economically and physically, so it is worth browsing in store. All top brands are available, including Eleaf, Vaporesso and Smok, as well as many flavours to try at incredible prices, including some of the newest products and varieties. Choose your nicotine strength from the quantity of milligrams you prefer, you can even choose a zero milligram rated vapour if you wish. Costa Vapor can also supply all your accessory needs, including Clearomizers, batteries and chargers, single kits, disposables, rebuildable atomisers, and much more. Currently Costa Vapor have some amazing special offers, so it is worth visiting the store to get the best advice on which is most suitable for your personal needs. To make the experience of buying liquids or accessories even easier, Costa Vapor will also be offering customers an online shopping experience from later this year. You can find Costa Vapor on Facebook and Instagram. Follow them to stay up-to-date on offers, new products and more interesting news on vaping.

Costa Vapor is now offering 30 minutes free parking time at the nearest car park on the Paseo if you spend €10 or more, so now you no longer have to worry about parking. So why not drop into their store Monday to Friday from 10am to 7pm, and Saturday 10am to 3pm at Costa Vapor, Avenida Ramon y Cajal, 17, Fuengirola, 29640. Alternatively, call 951 813 388 to speak to one of their team.

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EWN 89 Credit: Marbella Football Center

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Costa del Football SPAIN has an exceptional heritage for football and its major teams regularly appear in European tournaments whilst the National team has seen triumph in the World Cup. Despite the popularity of football, the Costa del Sol is poorly served by professional teams, with just four, Malaga CF now in the second division and Real Balompédica Linense (La Linea), Marbella and Atletico Malagueño all in the lowest tier. The only way for football fans to see the top teams is if any of these four are lucky enough to progress in the Copa del Rey

where ties are both home and away. One new development is the acceptance of the Gibraltar Football Association by Europe’s governing body UEFA which has seen local teams play in the UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds (where Lincoln Imps beat Celtic at home) and now the National team will take part in the Euro 2020 qualifiers. Although the Victoria Stadium in Gibraltar has not yet been renovated, the National team no longer has to play ‘home’ matches in Portugal, and on March 23 welcomed the Republic of Ireland

team to Gibraltar, followed by a friendly with Estonia just three days later. Other teams due to play in Gibraltar in 2019 are Denmark, Georgia and Switzerland so those football fans who want to see international matches (even those which will probably be one sided) can now get to Gibraltar. Despite the fact the Costa del Sol does not boast a large number of successful professional teams and the nearest La Liga team plays in Sevilla, it has over the past 20 years or so become a magnet for foreign teams wanting to undertake winter training.

JURGEN KLOPP: Liverpool regularly visit Marbella. It is relatively simple to fly to Malaga Airport and there are now great training grounds in Marbella, Mijas, Torremolinos and Estepona which will soon open its brand new sports ground, and with generally dry and warm temperatures, more and more teams are travelling to the area for up to 10 days training. Whilst UK Premier Division teams such as Bournemouth, Leicester, Liverpool and Wolves

have been recent visitors, there are plenty from the lower divisions and from much colder climates especially the Nordic Countries and Russia. The development of high-quality training facilities has led to the creation of specialist agencies who can arrange entire packages including flights, accommodation and book training grounds which generates additional income for the area. It is estimated 100 clubs

including National teams will use the training facilities during the winter period, and as each club brings not just players but staff - and for the bigger clubs journalists - the spend is quite significant. Though it may not always be possible to see top matches on the Costa del Sol, football creates an important financial benefit to the area and gives fans a chance to see their favourite players at training.

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Advertising Feature

Traditional quality in modern style A

S the concept of recycling becomes increasingly more popular, so the Wood Factory in San Pedro Alcantara is finding that its business just keeps on growing. This unusual shop and factory owned and run by mother of four Kristel Schoeman-Daneel takes reclaimed wood from northern Europe and transforms it into high quality, modern and artistic pieces of furniture which are both functional and very reasonably priced. She almost fell into the business by mistake as when she moved to Spain from Holland nearly 20 years ago she was in the process of furnishing her own home and just couldn’t find the sort of natural wood furniture that she wanted and thought that there was definitely something missing from the market place. At that time everything she saw seemed shiny and disposable whereas she wanted furniture that made a statement as well as being comfortable and long lasting. A determined woman, she decided that there would be plenty of people from northern Europe who would think like her and she opened the doors to her business seven years ago and has seen it grow quite incredibly ever since. Initially, she had to find suppliers of the proper reclaimed wood, shippers to bring it over to the Costa and craftsmen who were able to translate her concepts into reality and there is no doubt that she has succeeded. Initially, the business was confined to individual customers in and around the Marbella area but this has grown

considerably so that now the Wood Factory receives orders from all along the coast and she has become involved in working with interior designers to equip whole bars and restaurants. Recently she even received an order from a customer who was moving to South Africa and she filled his container with a range of different furniture for the kitchen, living areas, bedrooms and even the garden. About the only thing that Kristel doesn’t do is cut the wood but she does everything else including ordering the wood, designing much of the furniture, estimating prices, running the shop, doing the accounts, speaking three languages and also looking after a family. The Wood Factory can either supply from stock or can make products to customer requirements and offers a very versatile range for every room in the house which includes chairs, tables, wardrobes, beds, floors, kitchens, doors and once the inside is completed, there is even a palatial kennel for the dog. Her latest concept is the production of Huge Chill-Out Beds which are like the very popular Balinese Beds but are made with a contemporary feel. When asked to explain her philosophy, Kristel said that she wanted to create a sense of Bohemian Chic with good quality strong furniture which

The showroom in San Pedro.

KRISTEL: The spirit behind the the Wood Factory.

lives and that is certainly the case. With an eye for matching the wood which can be coloured, the company also offers a range of made to measure cushions and inlaid tiles to ensure that homogenous look. There is a large Dutch and Belgian community in the Marbella area and with this in mind, Kristel founded the Ellas Empresarías Holendésas

Just some of the furniture available from the Wood Factory. (Dutch women in business network club) and she enjoys meeting with like-minded working women, many of whom, like her, prove that it is perfectly possible for a woman to be a full-time mother and a full-time worker.

To see the furniture for yourself visit the Wood Factory, Poligono San Pedro de Alcantara, Calle Budapest 16, ES-29670 San Pedro de Alcantara, Marbella which is open from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 2pm on Saturday. Numerous examples of the innovative furniture can be viewed at www.woodfactory.es, on Instagram as well as Facebook or you can call 620 230 376 to discuss your needs with Kristel.

When the shop first opened, it seemed to attract mainly northern European clients who understood the look, but she is delighted to have noticed that more and more of her customers are Spanish and that she is now getting repeat orders as people move or improve their properties. Naturally this busy entrepreneur can welcome customers in fluent Dutch, English and Spanish and can also manage a conversation in French or German.

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Advertising Feature

Auto locksmith service I

F you have ever experienced the inconvenience of being locked out of your car or vehicle, you will know the importance of having a trustworthy and reliable locksmith on hand. Trained as a locksmith in the United Kingdom, Raimond Jakovlev now runs Automotive Locksmiths on the Costa del Sol, operating between Nerja and Gibraltar. Operating for more than 15 years, their services include unlocking cars, the replacement of lost keys, and the unlocking of doors and boot. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the company offers expert locksmiths, with years of experience, and at competitive prices. With an average response time of 30 minutes, Automotive Locksmiths guarantee access to any car and can make keys for most vehicles, with no hidden charges. The company promises: “If you call us and we can help you, you can be sure that you will not have to call anyone else. “We offer competitive rates and excellent customer service, so if you have problems accessing or starting your vehicle, call us,” adding, “If you have a problem with your vehicle’s key, it is very likely that we can also help you.” Among Automotive Locksmiths’ many services are

FAST SERVICE: Automotive Locksmiths have an average response time of just 30 minutes. vehicle access, with the company able to access virtually any type of car, motorcycle or lorry, and most other vehicles. Raimonds says: “If you are locked out or simply need to access your vehicle since you do not have the key, we can help you. We can also replace the key at the same time, at low cost, to avoid problems again in the future.” Alternatively, if your key has broken inside in the lock, Automotive Locksmiths can also help, extracting the key in a non-invasive way and then replacing it, so you can continue with your plans. If for some reason the key has been broken, due to a problem with the lock, or the ignition, they can replace it right there so that it does not happen again.

Providing a fast, reliable service at affordable prices. Automotive Locksmiths can make keys for more than 80 per cent of vehicles right there and then, including some lorries, even if the original keys have been lost or stolen. The company has the latest equipment in their mobile workshop, including diagnostics and system programming, and has key models for most brands and vehicle models. Additionally, if you need to change an old key, have just bought a second-hand car or van, or if you have

been robbed or lost your keys, Automotive Locksmiths can give you peace of mind that only you can access your vehicle. Sometimes it is not the key itself which is at fault. In that case, the company can also repair or replace the ignition or lock mechanism of your vehicle. With years of experience, they work with all brands and models and have all the necessary tools to provide their services wherever you are. Automotive Locksmiths also offer a truly 24-hour a day, 365-day a year service, and can provide an emergency locksmith if you are ever locked out of your vehicle. Their team of professionals will give you access to your vehicle without breaking anything, and will

only need the brand, model and some other details to obtain the exact and necessary data in order to help you in the shortest possible time. Automotive Locksmiths’ technicians are fully insured and provide a fast and reliable service, at very affordable prices. All locksmiths receive a minimum of 40 hours of hands-on training to unlock, open and handle locks, and only one in 10 job seekers can meet their rigorous standards. The vehicle door locks are changing and increasingly complicated, but with their method of unlocking doors for cars, it is still as safe as using a key. In addition, their service eliminates the need for costly substitutions of keys and unnecessary duplicates.

For vehicle lock help, contact Raimond on 0034 679 831 166, email info@locallocksmiths24h.es, or visit http://locallocksmiths24h.es.

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Success stories: Spain in literature By Joe Gerrard SPAIN has long being the setting for many of the world’s best-loved books by native authors and writers from overseas. Literature as we know it was being produced in Spain from the time of the Roman Empire. The poets Martial, Quintilian and Lucan, all wrote in Roman Spain. The output of literature continued in Moorish Spain which spawned several poets writing in Arabic as well as in ear-

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GREAT WORK: Don Quixote is regarded as a classic.

ly forms of Spanish. The epic poem Cantar de Mio Cid, written around 1140, told the story of the Christian knight of the same name. The Spanish were well on the way to reconquering the peninsula from the Moors when the Renaissance arrived and spawned several great works of literature. The works of Fernando de Riojas, Jorge Manrique and Alonso de Ercilla laid the groundwork for what is considered the Golden Age of Spanish literature in the

17th century. Miguel de Cervantes’ 1605 work Don Quixote is considered the world’s first novel. The two-volume tome tells the story of the fictional Spanish nobleman and his companion Sancho Panza’s adventures across 17th century Spain, confronting rivals and Don Quixote’s own chivalric delusions. In the 20th century, British poet Laurie Lee set out on foot from his native Gloucestershire to explore Spain in 1934.

He gives us his account of roughing it from Galicia to Andalucia in As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning. The follow up work, A Moment of War, documents his time in the International Brigade fighting Francisco Franco’s nationalist forces during the Spanish Civil War. Ernest Hemingway also came to Spain; first as an American expat after the First World War to witness Pamplona’s famous Bull Run, which he recounts in The Sun Also Rises.

He later returned to make a documentary about the Civil War and wrote For Whom The Bell Tolls after being inspired by the heroism of the Republican army. George Orwell also travelled to Barcelona to fight alongside anarchist militias, which he recounts in Homage to Catalonia. The book details the revolution in the region at the start of the conflict, life and neardeath from a sniper’s bullet on the Aragon Front and political intrigue in Barcelona.

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Advertising Feature

SOLAR PANELS: One way of saving energy.

HEN you live on the Costa del Sol in what continues to be a rapidly changing climate with warmer summers and colder and wetter winters, you know that you need to be both Cool and Cosy at different times of the year. Sadly as energy prices continue to escalate, the traditional ways of tackling these problems have become increasingly more expensive on a long term basis and new, innovative solutions are needed. This is where Cool and Cosy, a family-run business based in Calahonda which has been at the forefront of heating and cooling since it was founded in 1993 is delighted to be able to offer some very useful solutions. It has four main areas of expertise, namely air conditioning, energy saving, solar energy and underfloor heating aimed at both the domestic and commercial markets and as new technology evolves, so Robert who runs the business ensures that he is able to offer the most appropriate solution to customer needs. He is very proud of the fact that when a new law was introduced in January 2018 (Real Decreto 115/2017) requiring that only installers authorised by the Junta de Andalucia are permitted to sell, install, service or repair air conditioning that Cool and Cosy was already one of the few companies who had been registered for some

COOL & COSY: A family-run business offering some very useful solutions.

Cool and Cosy in summer or winter

OFFERING EXPERTISE: In air conditioning or installation of underfloor heating. time and therefore able to continue to offer a full service. They can supply all leading brands of air conditioners, but strongly recommend Fujitsu General, which they believe to be the most reliable unit and installation comes with the company’s three years parts and labour warranty. Cool and Cosy is also the official technical department on the main units they fit, Fujitsu General and EAS Electric but it should be understood that they

only undertake warranty work on their own installations. In the unlikely event that your unit should break down Cool and Cosy won’t send you an outsourced repair company but will send one of their own highly trained technicians to repair the fault and they undertake to source any replacement parts within 48 hours. Once the three-year guarantee has expired, the company offers a very reasonably priced maintenance contract in order

to protect customers from any problems as the unit ages. If you rent out your property on a short term basis or you simply want to limit the amount of energy used in the home it is sensible to be aware of the money saving options available to you. There is a wide range of different alternatives available which include movement sensors (which will turn off air conditioners if no movement is detected), coin meters and timer

switches, so if you want to save money and help the environment, just contact Cool and Cosy. One other way of saving energy and cost over a period of time is by the installation of solar panels so if you want to conserve funds and get free hot water whatever the weather, this is an easy and very practical option to consider. What’s more, as people become increasingly more aware of the need to control climate change, the introduction of solar panelling is likely to make your property more competitive in the real estate market when compared to a similar home which does not produce and control its own energy. Another major way of helping the environment is the installation of underfloor heating which means that rather than add to the pollution by burning wood or spending large amounts on expensive electricity, your solar panels can produce free hot water to run under your floors so that the rooms can be cosy in no time at a fraction of the long term cost. Robert and his team of bilingual installers at Cool and Cosy cover an area along the coast from Nerja to Sotogrande and inland as well so there is no problem in obtaining help and advice in no time at all. Now as an additional service, they have expanded to help clients with electrical installations and break downs through their ‘brother company’ www.brightspark.es.

Call the Cool and Cosy office on 952 935 513 Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm for a free quotation, e-mail coolandcosy@hotmail.com, or view their detailed website http://coolandcosy.es as well as their regularly updated Facebook page. For technical information or support please call Robert on 679 976 062 and he will do his best to assist.

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Spanish record breakers S

PANISH people hold or previously held a number of world records including one for finger-clicking, keepy-uppies, oil lamps and the age of human remains. Workers at the SRG Global automotive company in Lliria, Valencia, hold the record for the largest group of people clicking their fingers. A total of 1,221 staff members and their families entered the Guinness Book of World Records when they clicked along to Johann Strauss’ Radetzky March in November 2012. Valladolid Province is home to a number of record-breakers. More than 14,990 people broke the world record for the largest number of people doing beach ball keepy-uppies

in September 2012. The province also saw records broken for the largest number of people dressed as cupid, 199 in 2009, fanning themselves, 15,000 in 2011 and lollipop licking, 12,831 in 2008. Juan Garces Queralt, from Benifairo de les Vals in the Valencia Region, broke the world record for the longest-serving conductor in 2006 after being on the job for 67 years. He passed away in December 2014 after celebrating his 100th birthday months before. The oldest human remains discovered and genetically sequenced were found in the Sima de los Huesos cave in Burgos Province, Castilla y Leon. The thighbone has been dated at 400,000 years old.

Madrid’s Miguel Ballesteros and Jose Francisco Dopcio de Pablo broke the world record for the furthest distance a washing machine has been thrown. They threw machines, which weighed 47 kilograms apiece, 6.37 metres in October 2001. Spain is also home to the world’s largest oil lamp. The lamp, commissioned by Almocita in Almeria Province,

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RECORD HOLDERS: The largest amount of people doing keepy-uppies was recorded in Spain.

had a volume of almost 653 litres. Rodrigo Martin Santos, from Madrid, holds the World Record for the largest collection of Tomb Raider memorabilia. He had 2,383 items as of April 2014 when the record was awarded and his collection is still growing. Mallorca’s Josep Andreu Amoros holds the world record for the largest keychain collection at around

47,200. Antonio Almijez, from Madrid, broke the record for the most eggs crushed by the wrist in two minutes in January 2009. He managed to break 78 of them. The Abracadabra Foundation brought together 2,573 people in December 2010 to break the record for the largest magic lesson held simultaneously at different venues.

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Advertising Feature

Relax in the sun or work out T

HE Metro Group has recently taken over the legendary Max Beach on the Mijas Costa in Riviera which has re-opened after a complete renovation and the building of an exceptional Gym, Max Fitness. The reopening of Max Beach under new management will see super slick service, great quality fresh food and a superb experience for a day or night out, at an affordable price The environment is relaxing, yet professional and the 25-metre pool for guests who reserve a luxury poolside bed, is complemented by an outdoor Seaside Snack Menu, including sushi, pizza and a cocktail bar.

The restaurant serves breakfast from 9am, lunch from noon and dinner every night and there are superb quality menus and extensive wine lists. Reservations can be made online and poolside beds can also be reserved online to include towels, a bottle of Moët and waiter service Max Beach is a great sized venue to hold a wedding or a corporate event. It can cater for up to 500 guests including the restaurants, terraces and poolside area and there is direct access to the paseo and beach from the pool area. There is valet parking and regular live music too. Stay tuned for news of Max Live, the area’s latest live music

venue to open later in the year. The new Gym, Max Fitness is powered by Reebok Functional and inspired by a ‘tough fitness’ movement, as international manufacturer Reebok has created a complete range of functional products which would withstand regular daily use by individuals and groups. It is based on this concept that the new Max Fitness Gym will be ideal for locals and holidaymakers with long and short memberships as well as day passes available. The sports centre will be directed by local athlete David Segorbe, three times World Champion, European Champion and holder of a

Keep healthy at Max Fitness. World Powerlifting Record. David is also known for conducting extreme sports events for various charity projects. It is believed this is one of the best equipped facilities in Spain, on the beach front with amazing sea views from every running machine and static bike. Max Fitness Gym is a new concept gym with open spaces and all the fitness activities integrated in the same area, with 500 square metres of facilities designed to accommodate people who want to improve their health and fitness, as well as high-per-

Max Fitness hours: Mon to Fri 6:30am to 11pm, Sat, Sun and Holidays 8am to 8pm.

formance athletes. Visit www.maxfitness gym.es and @maxgym.mi jas on Facebook and Instagram to discover more about all the services offered including the HBX (Human Body Exercise) zone; the cardio zone with the latest generation Intenza machines; Max Box zone for fun cross training; the Bike zone with the ‘Johnny G’ intelligent spin bikes; and the Powerlifting and Bodybuilding Zones.

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HE world is marking the 500th anniversary of the start of the first round-the-globe voyage this year, and a Spanish sailor was a co-leader of the expedition. Juan Sebastian Elcano and Portugal’s Ferdinand Magellan set off from from Sanlucar de Barrameda in what is now Cadiz Province in 1519. The journey took three years, saw the sailors pass several continents and claimed the life of Magellan and hundreds more. The voyage was launched because Spain - then known as the Kingdom of Castile wanted to open up new routes to the East Indies for the lucrative spice trade. Portugal controlled the eastern route to the Spice Islands - now Indonesia and other countries in the Pacific, which took sailors down the African coast and around the Cape of Good Hope. That meant Spain had to find a western route, and the only way was down South America and around Cape

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Voyage at 500 Horn. Elcano and Magellan’s fleet of five ships and 270 crew from across Europe set sail in September 1519. They stopped in the Canary Islands and at others in the Atlantic Ocean before arriving near present-day Rio de Janeiro in Brazil in December of that year. The fleet then began working its way down the east coast of South America. Magellan hoped to find a Strait they could cross to reach the Pacific. After the sinking of one ship and the desertion of another, the fleet managed to find a route through the southern tip of South America. They sailed through it in November 1520, and the passage is now called the

MAKING HISTORY: Elcano’s Victoria ship was the only vessel to survive the voyage. Strait of Magellan in the sailor’s honour. Magellan did not live to see the end of the voyage. He died at the hands of Filipino leader Datu Lapu-Lapu after trying to convert his people to Christianity in 1521.

The deaths of Magellan and others meant one ship had to be abandoned, leaving two left in the fleet. Elcano took over command of the expedition and they made for Spain via the Cape of Good Hope. His decision to take the westward

route on his return changed the voyage from a trade mission into the world’s first circumnavigation. Only 18 men remained aboard the Victoria, the last of the five ships left, when they returned to Spain in 1522.

Advertising Feature

AKE a stroll around Puerto Banus and Marbella and the air you breathe smells of success. From the yachts in the plush harbour to the designer label shops and the stunning and highly desirable supercars cruising the boulevards of this playground of the rich and famous, it is a heady mix. But of course, this all comes at a price. With cars that can cost hundreds of thousands of euros owners quite naturally want to protect and enhance their investment - and this is where Vinyl Art Wraps comes in. The company specialises in enhancing and protecting the most prestigious brands of automobiles and motorbikes with the highest quality product applied by a team of immensely skilled specialist craftsmen. But what do they do? As the name suggests, they apply a protective vinyl film on the bodywork of the car. This keeps the paintwork in showroom-ready condition by protecting it from chips, light scratches and - particularly important on the Costa del Sol the effect of UV damage under our strong sun. It is also an effective way of giving a car or motorbike a fresh new look if the original paintwork is looking a little tired,

Vinyl art wraps Transform your car

TEAM WORK: From left, Borja Alvaro and Jason have the skills to protect and transform your car. or if the owner just wants a change to a more vibrant style. But more than that, again as the company name suggests, they provide their clients with the opportunity to put their own personal touch to their cars and motorbikes. Vinyl Art Wraps are not simply technicians - they are also artists who can

transform what are already some of the most beautiful cars and bikes in the world into a unique one-of-a-kind Objet d’art. They can change the colour of a car or add a bespoke design - it is up to the client. At the moment they have a grey jeep straight from the dealer which they are turning blue because their customer didn’t want to wait seven months for the colour of his choice. Customers can rest assured that Vinyl Art Wraps only use the best materials, and pride themselves on their detailing. Put it simply, once applied it is impossible to see that the car has been wrapped. The durability of the vinyl is such that it will remain that way for years - in fact until the customer decides to have it removed to reveal the show-room ready paintwork still underneath. And clients don’t have to have their entire car wrapped. Just want a different colour roof or bonnet, or a special design on the doors? No problem, Vinyl Art

TRANSFORM: Make your car unique! Wraps are only too willing to accommodate you. They make a customised study of the needs of the client, the characteristics of the project and carrying out an exclusive process for each type of work. All you have to do is ask - after all their motto is ‘Anything you want, we can make happen.’

Nave 80, Pol. Ind. Nueva Campana, 29660 Marbella Website: vinylart.es • +34 695 517 843

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Interview - Vinyl Art

L V A R O GONZALEZ started on the road to success as a young man who grew up with a love of cars. He says his passion for the motor world started at the age of nine. From his home he could hear the F1 drivers practising in Jerez and a lifelong love of the sound, smell and stunning looks of high-end vehicles was aroused. After much hard work and much hard saving he managed to buy himself a motorbike, and from there the seeds of his future successful business were born. Alvaro explained: “I wanted to add some carbon fibre to make the bike look really good, but it was very expensive. I heard about vinyl wrapping, but at the time I could not find it anywhere in Spain. Eventually I found it in

Making a passion into a success Germany and imported it for my bike.” His friends were so impressed that he was soon customising their bikes too and his work did not go unnoticed as he became busier and busier, mostly through referrals. By 2010 it became apparent to him that with the skills and craftsmanship he was able to bring to the table his future lay at the top end of the market. And for that he had to move lock, stock and barrel to the bright lights of Marbella, or to be more specific Nueva Andalucia/Puerto Banus. This was no small matter for a young man. Alvaro, who was just 21 at

the time, said: “It was a risk - but you have to take it! If you believe in something - that is the key. It also needs a lot of sacrifice. Going two or three days without sleep was not unusual.” His hard work and dedication meant he rapidly built for himself a reputation for the very highest levels of quality, craftsmanship, and above all customer care. This is why his client list is very impressive including main dealers and very high-end car hire companies who want to protect their investments, to footballers, members of the Saudi Royal family and many more. The best part of the

job for Alvaro? “It is seeing people’s faces when they see the transformation in their cars. It is something else to watch their expression to see their wishes made true!”

DEDICATION: Alvaro puts heart and soul into the business.

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Advertising Feature

O much has changed since Mark set up Sky Doctor in 2001 that he wouldn’t still be running a successful company if his team weren’t on top of technology. Originally, the business relied on installation of satellite TV systems and they have literally installed thousands along the Costa del Sol since the company started. There is still a big demand for satellite installations and his BRITPACK system is ideal for those who want access to UK Freesat channels, paying a one-off fitting fee with no monthly charge. This is particularly useful for those with holiday homes who want to keep in touch with the main UK channels and also for anyone (small or large) who is renting out holiday properties as tenants often expect some form of TV availability. One thing that Mark has noticed over his years of working in this business is that there is now a major difference between the watching habits of the young when compared to older clients. The younger people want to binge on box sets and on demand music and video whilst older clients prefer to watch TV programmes as they are transmitted rather than go to the trouble of discovering all of the ins and outs of modern technology. In this area, IPTV is the obvious solution provided that you have decent internet connection and the Sky Doctor offers a basic Freeview option with over 100 channels and a seven-day catch-up facility for less than the annual cost of a UK TV licence. The box will be supplied and installed by expert technicians who will also explain how it works (which is always a great option when new technology is involved). For those who want a more comprehensive range of programmes, that is not a problem and a simple chat with Mark will allow him to offer you the most suitable package. Nowadays with the development of new audio and visual options, you can effectively

Sky Doctor can diagnose your problem

RELAX: Enjoy top quality TV. have your own cinema at home and whilst this is a very attractive option, some people may be a little worried about actually setting the systems up. This is another area where the Sky Doctor can help as even if you supply your own TV and audio equipment, the company will be more than happy to quote or to set everything up for you so that you know that you will receive the optimum performance from your new purchases or if you prefer, they can recommend and supply everything you need. Whilst many households are able to obtain fibre optic broadband, there are still a large number where this is not possible because their property may be a little remote or in a small urbanisation where the major companies just won’t visit. The perfect answer could be the 4G Unlimited WiFi routers which will give a strong stable signal which means that it works with up to 32 internet derived devices, perfect for streaming TV systems and will give download speeds of up to

WILD: Mark should look behind him. GREAT SERVICE: Sky Doctor is ready to visit.

Let Mark offer you the most suitable package.

25 MBPS internet without a phone line on the Costa del Sol. Another bonus is that the service does not limit the data usage like most other providers, so you never have to worry about reduced internet speeds and there are no data caps and no fair usage policy, so you can use it as much as you like, whether you’re checking emails, watching movies or just surfing the net! The other benefit is that unlike most other suppliers, you can make all arrangements to obtain this WiFi option even if you don’t have a Spanish bank account or NIE number. With main bases in Calahonda and San Pedro Alcantara, Sky Doctor covers the whole of the coast as well as many towns inland and once you are a customer, you even have access to the Sky Doctor telephone helpline. Service is an important part of the Sky Doctor philosophy as a large number of customers are either repeat purchasers or have been recommended by existing clients. The other area that is vital is knowing what developments are important and making sure that they are available. Currently, the Sky Doctor is expanding into telephone supply and apart from offering sim cards it is about to become a main distributor for the new Lobster phone service which is all based in English and they will soon be offering mobile phone contracts as well as the latest handsets. This is particularly good as the mobile plans have a turn on, turn off service. They can port your existing mobile number without hassle and plans start at €12 a month for unlimited calls and texts.

For more information, please visit the website www.theskydoctor.com, see their Facebook page, email them on info@theskydoctor.com or to speak to a member of the team, please call 952 763 840 or 635 400 099.

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Advertising Feature

It’s not just cartridges at Cartridge Connection with The Computer Center

ROPRIETOR Stuart has been in Spain for 34 years and set up Cartridge Connection in 2005 with the aim of helping customers reduce the cost of running printers. It’s clear that large manufacturers sell printers - for home computers in particular - at very low prices in the expectation of making long term profit from the sale of cartridges and this is where Stuart and partner Kristin are set up to help. Naturally they do sell a wide range of original cartridges (including those for laser printers) from all of the biggest manufacturers, but they can promise sensational savings if you bring your empty cartridge to the shop and it can be refilled in less than five minutes. There has been a significant investment in this side of the business and Stuart believes that this is the only location in Spain using the British produced Ink Station machine which makes easy work of quickly and accurately refilling old cartridges with savings that can be as much as 50 per cent over the cost of an original. Of course there is an added bonus as by recycling you are doing your bit to help protect the environment. It is a fact of life that a small number of cartridges can’t be refilled and if you don’t want to pay full price, then the shop also has a stock of compatible cartridges at reduced prices. The couple also run The Computer Center from the same base offering everything connected with computers from brand new PCs and laptops, to second-

CARTRIDGE CONNECTION: Has been in business for 14 years.

PARKING: Is simple and free of charge.

PROPRIETOR: Stuart with his partner Kristin are ready to help.

COMPUTER CENTER: Sells a wide range of printer cartridges.

hand versions which have been properly checked before being put on sale and what’s more, they offer a very competitive repair service as well as plenty of accessories. If you have a virus, need data recovery, want to upgrade your existing kit or need web hosting then this is the place to visit especially as Stuart will undertake a free diagnosis before quoting if you do have any problems with your computers. As technology expands, so the Computer Center has expanded with it and Stuart has built his own IPTV system which can be installed

For everything connected with computers.

via a box which he supplies and once the initial installation has been paid for, the ongoing service is free of charge with regular updates and if there are any problems then there is a helpline at hand. The service includes

everything that you would expect plus a little bit more as there is a wide range of TV programmes, box sets, videos and a huge range of music to suit all tastes. They believe that this is one of the most comprehensive systems anywhere in the world and the box also streams TV shows from many different countries. There is a significant adult selection available but there is also an option to keep this away from children by way of a password. In order to enjoy the full range of internet and IPTV entertainment, you do need fast and reliable broadband and if you don’t have ac-

cess to fibre cables, then you don’t need to worry, as you can also obtain 4G mobile internet with no wires, cables, download limit or fixed contract (which is ideal for those with holiday homes). Having been in business for 14 years this is no ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ operation, but will continue to give a good, efficient and well-priced service to customers old and new. Everything connected with computers is undertaken in house and thanks to the shop’s position just by the BP Petrol Station in La Cala de Mijas, parking is simple and free of charge.

The shop is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm and 3pm to 6pm with Stuart and Kristin on hand to discuss customer needs in English, German and Spanish. To find out more visit http://thecartridgeconnection.net/computer_center/, call 952 494 360 or better still go in for a chat to the Cartridge Connection with the Computer Center at Jardines de la Butiplaya L.6, Crta Cadiz N340 Km 202, La Cala de Mijas.

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KARREN BRADY, or Baroness Brady, of Knightsbridge in the City of Westminster CBE as she is properly known, is unique. Not only has she had a stellar career as a director of various companies, but the majority of her career has been in the male-orientated world of professional football. Having started her career with Saatchi & Saatchi, she then moved to become an Account Executive with London Broadcasting Company. One of the clients she gained during this period was newspaper owner David Sullivan. Sullivan was impressed with Karren’s abilities and he offered her a job and subsequently appointed her to the board of Sullivan’s Sport Newspaper. Karren then persuaded Sullivan to buy Birmingham FC, which was at the time in receivership, and he put her in place to run the business. Whilst she has faced sexism in the role, it is generally acknowledged that she has readily overcome such ar-

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An extraordinary career

VICE-CHAIRMAN WEST HAM UNITED: Karren still fulfils the role to this date. cane attitudes. When Birmingham FC was sold, Karren soon followed Sullivan to West Ham United FC, which he had bought with David Gold and she was made vice-chairman, a role which she fulfils to this date. In addition to her sales and football management careers, Karren has also appeared on television as Lord Sugar’s assistant in The Apprentice, writes columns for

newspapers, has written novels, is on the board of various companies and is a motivational speaker. Karren is a great champion and advocate for Women in Business and is Chairman of Mentore, which works with businesses to harness the talents, ambitions and drive of women. One of her primary goals is to ensure more women are appointed to senior management and board positions

within their companies. She also has a keen interest in supporting women in sport. In 2014 Karren was appointed a life peer and now sits in the House of Lords as a Conservative with a specific role within the Culture Media & Sport’s Women in Sport Advisory Board. Karren is married to a Canadian ex-football player, with whom she has two children, and is said to be worth £85 million.

KARREN BRADY: Has succeeded in a male-dominated industry.

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Advertising Feature

The pen is still mightier than the download A

RECENT survey at the London Book World trade show discovered that teenage girls consider reading physical books (rather than downloads) as their number one hobby. Bookworld in Puerto Banus is one of the few dedicated stores on the Costa del Sol offering a range of English language books alongside cards, stationery, board games and gift wrap in one smart shop opposite El Corte Ingles. Proprietor Mike and wife Emilia have been in Spain for 31 years and Mike spent 10 years working in the Bookworld head office before it closed due to the financial crisis and he made the momentous decision to take over the Banus shop which was first established in 2004. It was a brave move considering the financial climate, but with his many contacts earned over a decade, Mike had faith in the ongoing viability of books and made the purchase in 2013. Since that time, Bookworld has gone from strength to strength catering as it does for a very strong Englishspeaking community and the introduction of Kindles has not made a dent in the business. They have an exceptional selection of children’s and young adult books, both for use at school and for general reading and he believes that the success of the Harry Potter books has had a huge influence on

MIKE: Believes in books.

You can take advantage of the regular book of the month offer. reading patterns in the young. According to Mike, adult books have a relatively short shelf life, with the most popular authors such as Ken Follett, Jeffrey Archer and James Patterson peaking quickly whilst books for younger people see a steady turnover as new generations discover older books. Revision guides are always available and are proving very popular and Mike regularly attends school book fairs as well

as trade fairs in the UK to ensure that he is able to offer the most up-to-date selection. Alongside the children’s and fiction departments, Bookworld also stocks coffee table books, books of Spanish interest (in English), non-fiction and indeed every topic that you would expect and if it

isn’t in stock, with two deliveries a week from the UK, Mike is more than happy to order whatever customers require. There is a website at http://bookworldpuerto banus.com/ which announces all of the latest publications and visitors are able to browse the wide ranging stock and

discover what is trending in the world of publishing as well as getting regular updates from the Facebook page. It is often very difficult to find a suitable greetings card here in Spain, but Bookworld has a great range of different styles of cards in English, available for a range of different celebrations for people of all ages. There is a surprisingly large stock of board games, so if you want to involve all of the family and get the children in particular away from their computers and Gameboys, this is the shop to visit for both old favourites such as Monopoly or Scrabble as well as a range of new games. Bookworld Banus is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm (and this extends to 9pm in the summer) and with plenty of car parking nearby, there is every reason to pop in to the shop to see exactly what is available. There are some special offers and in the summer you can take advantage of the regular book of the month offer with some significant savings and there is of course an ever changing stock with all of the latest best sellers appearing soon after they are released in the UK.

So if your child wants to read the new David Walliams book, you want to catch up with the latest Lucinda Riley novel or need to send a card and wrap a present, make sure that you visit Bookworld Banus at C/ Ramon Areces 1, local 15, Marbella 29660 (telephone 952 816 084) and take advantage of all of the other great attractions in one of Marbella’s top locations.

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Risk and reward

Billionaire butcher

OST of us will have shopped there, but did you know that food giant Mercadona started off life from a chain of eight small butchers? The 70 years between this small group of shops starting out and now would see Juan Roig Alfonso, Mercadona’s president go from a ‘shy’ schoolboy from Valencia to the third richest man in Spain. Roig, now worth around €8 billion, was born into the grocery trade, with his parents owning butchers in La Pobla de Farnals, Valencia Province. After graduating university in economics, the entrepreneur decided to take on the

BUSINESS IMPERATIVE: Take a chance if you want to grow. JUAN ROIG: The entrepreneur (inset) owns Mercadona. family business, buying the chain from his parents along with three of his brothers in 1981. He later bought out the company from his siblings 10 years later in 1991. A successful strategy of competitive pricing, taking chances on early technologies - including barcode scanners - and improving staff conditions, has paid off for Roig, with Mercadona now owning 1,400 stores.

ROM when we are very small children we begin learning lessons about risk. Whether it is touching something hot when we have been told not to, or sneaking a treat we should not have while our parents were not looking, we soon find out which risks are worth taking and which end badly. Later in life we are often given mixed messages about risk; on the one hand told it is difficult to succeed without taking chances, and on the other that

‘slow and steady wins the race.’ So which is correct for success? According to business website En trepreneur.com, not taking chances could actually be the surest way not to grow, particularly in business. It explains: ‘Many entrepreneurs will finally pull the trigger on their business - the biggest risk they've ever taken - and then want to play it safe. That’s how many businesses stagnate. To grow your business you have to go chase opportunities, and every opportunity comes with a level of risk.’

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Advertising Feature

ILL BRADY has been advising expatriates on how to obtain the best deal in quality used vehicles since 1986 so you can be sure that he is here today and here tomorrow as well! Buying a car in Spain is certainly not as simple as it is in the UK and Bill understands the bureaucracy that can surround what should be a straightforward transaction and can guide you through the pitfalls, making sure that your purchase is properly registered and in accordance with the law. Having been involved with the motor business for more than 40 years (30 plus here in Spain) he has gained an exceptional reputation which means that repeat customers are the norm rather than the exception. Bill always has a good selection of used cars at his property in Las Chapas close to the Marbella Costa de Sol hospital but if you are looking for that special car, donâ€™t be scared to contact him as with his long list of business contacts here in

Bill Brady Cars a name to trust

BILL BRADY: The first choice for quality used cars.

Spain, he is very likely to be able to find exactly what you are looking for. Bill is there to help you to get the best deal possible and if you are leaving Spain or simply want to change cars, then he is quite happy to either consider part exchange for your old car or could make an offer to purchase it from you. There is no doubt that word of mouth recommendation is important in the second-hand car market and you can be assured that he goes out of his way to ensure that customers always come first and it is thanks to this impeccable and knowledgeable service he offers that so many customers are happy to recommend Bill Brady Cars to friends and relatives.

If you want friendly advice and a good range of cars to choose from, do call Bill at the office on (+34) 952 838 842, on his mobile (+34) 608 950 221, email info@billbradycars.com or visit his website which shows some of the latest bargains at www.billbradycars.com. Better still arrange an appointment with Bill to have a chat about your needs and to view his stock at Las Chapas Beach No 18, Las Chapas Km188.5, 29604 Marbella and see for yourself why Bill Brady has such a good reputation.

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Advertising Feature

MET my late husband Gordon Robertson 48 years ago when at 21 I was working for a Scottish national newspaper. I would write the car adverts and was sometimes photographed for the adverts, as you can see here the young girl is me. We married in 1975 and went on to build our car business with three showrooms in Glasgow, stocking hundreds of vehicles. We developed other business interests, which included Robertson Aviation, a small air charter company with three planes. We moved to Marbella over 32 years ago and settled in Elviria to be close to the International School, which our daughter attended. One of the parents at the school asked Gordon to help him buy a Spanish car as Gordon could speak Spanish plus had many years of car trade experience. From then in 1986 we were back selling cars in Spain. Our cars are pre-owned by expats who have serviced and looked after them and have low kilometres. Ask anyone and you

FROM GIRL to GRANNY… still selling cars

ROBERTSON CARS: Samantha went from placing car adverts in Scotland to selling cars in Spain. will only hear good reports about us and our cars. Gordon sadly died three years ago in 2016, we had been married 41 years. Since this time I have continued to run Robertson Cars as I know he would have expected me to do so.

Gordon used to check over every car we sold himself, now I have a mechanic check each car that I sell to continue this high attention to detail and reliability. Much has changed over the last 32 years. The paperwork involved in the buying and selling

a Spanish car is detailed and I hear of many problems but rest assured all of my cars have been checked for unpaid taxes, parking tickets and embargos to make sure they have clear title before I sell them. I have recently started two new

services. The ITV service, if your car is due its regular ITV, I will book the appointment at the test centre for you and take the car to the inspection. Another service I offer is selling your car. I will advertise your car including photographs on my website. When I am not busy selling cars you will find me on the golf course. I am a keen golfer and member of Santa Maria Golf Club in Elviria, where in 2003 I was one of only three women to ever Captain the club. In September this year I am looking forward to returning to Scotland for the Solheim Cup at Gleneagles , where I will be marshalling on the par 3 Hole 4. I adore being a Granny to my Granddaughters (pictured here with me) Sophie (11), Niamh (7), Iris (4) and Kerenza (3). I regularly visit my daughter Samantha and her husband James in England for the girls’ birthdays and special events at their schools. Even better when they come over to visit me throughout the year! Walking my dogs Coco, a Yorkshire Terrier and Rory McIlroy, a West Highland Terrier also keeps me busy.

Quality used cars on the Costa del Sol Call NOW on 952 832 173

www.RobertsonCars-Spain.com

We are a family business established in 1967 and moved to Spain 1986.

Jaguar XF J X 2015 automatic i di diesel i l2 2.2 Only 10,000 Kms. Cost new 46,000€. BARGAIN BUY at 26,500€

BMW MW X3 X sDrive D 18d 2013 Only 77,000 kms (approx. 50,000 miles) Super condition – big beauty. 21,500€

Specialising in: • FROM EXPAT TO EXPAT • LOW Kms • SERVICE HISTORY • ONE OWNER Magnificent M i ifi tM Mercedes 500 00 0 CL C Co C Coupe • CORRECT DOCUMENTATION 2004. Sunroof with AMG styling. Only 95,000 kms (approx 60,000miles) • QUALITY GUARANTEE LUXURY DRIVING – AMAZING OFFER. 11,995€

4 2 Ni N 2 4x2 Nissan Juke 1.6 2012 38,000 kms (approx 25,000 miles) Immaculate condition. WAS 10,995€. NOW 9,995€

Contact Samantha now on the following phone numbers 952 832 173 Office - 608658785 Mobile Or email Samantha: therobertsonclan@gmail.com

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Advertising Feature

Enjoy TV and much more

EST known for their IPTV and free to air satellite services, EuroSat Solutions who are based in Torreblanca have been established in Spain for 16 years. The company goes out of its way to discover innovative and inexpensive solutions to a whole number of problems and have some exceptional deals, if you want to keep abreast of what’s on UK TV through the IPTV Freeview service. If you would prefer to make a one off payment and have an 80cm dish which supplies the basic free to air channels then that is another great option and you can discover more by visiting http://www.eurosatuktv.com/ Installation is simple and can be arranged by qualified technicians between Malaga to Estepona and even further.

EUROSAT SOLUTIONS: Making day-to-day living that little bit easier.

A relatively new area of business, which is becoming increasingly more popular, is the supply of pay as you go mobile phones and chips which are much cheaper and come with far less bureaucracy than most

of the Spanish mobile companies. With packages starting at less than €10 per month and actual phones for €25 upwards, there is no need to be stuck with long contracts and these

are ideal options for those who don’t use their phones a great deal or are just visiting for a few weeks. As if this wasn’t enough, the company is also sourcing different useful, innovative and sensibly priced gadgets which can improve security and also just make day-to-day living that little bit easier. Latest offers include the Sony Starvis security camera which

For more information about the great service and superb offers available, visit the company website at http://www.eurosatuktv.com/ their Facebook page or call Chris or Peter on 952 661 956 between 10am and 5pm Monday to Friday to discuss how they can help.

will film clear images in a variety of environments and unlike many security cameras the Sony mage sensors provide high-sensitivity performance suitable for night filming so that you get a clear picture rather than an indistinct image and EuroSat Solutions technicians are available to not only install the camera, but also explain all of its uses. Other useful products include a solar powered charger, really bright portable and Bluetooth speakers, a credit card sized phone or even a child’s watch with an inbuilt GPS to allow tracking.

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SPAIN ON CELLULOID

Doctor Zhivago and the bothersome Spanish spring ALTHOUGH this David Lean classic is all about a Russian poet and his clandestine love affair during the October Revolution of the First World War, the majority of this 1965 epic was filmed in Spain. Omar Sharif plays lead in this immortal tale of trouble and strife, with a strong supporting cast of Julie Christie, Alec Guinness and Tom Courtenay. For obvious reasons, producers originally wanted to film in the Soviet Union, but the government continually refused the studio’s requests. Various Scandinavian countries were scouted, as was Yugoslavia. Both areas were considered too cold for prolonged

filming, and Yugoslavia also proved too bureaucratic. A few scenes were captured in icy Canada and Finland (after all), but most were filmed in Franco’s Spain during the colder months of 1965. The poignant train scenes were filmed in Gaudix in Granada, with most others being shot in Madrid, Castille y Leon and Salamanca. Despite soaring temperatures, Sharif and supporting cast had to wrap up in thick coats, suffering for their art. Actors had make-up artists continually dabbing their faces because of their sweating. The inside of the ice palace was actually made

up of specially formed wax. Cast iron sheets were placed over a riverbed and covered with marble dust from a nearby quarry for the charge of the Partisans across a frozen lake. With such challenges affecting the schedule, the Spanish winter became milder, with fields turning a rather inconvenient green. The crew had to use paint and white dust sheets to camouflage the onslaught of spring! In a funny tale, locals were so alarmed at the Marxist revolutionary songs they heard during a particular late-night shoot, they thought Franco HAD been overthrown and the police came along to re-

store order. Most unusual of all? For a film set in the Russian Revolution, it contains no Russian actors, and wasn’t even shown in the country until 1994! Nowadays, so much of this would be filmed using special RESTORATION: A visual and aural feast. effects, but it’s great to see how Hollywood overcame such obstacles to produce such a beautiful film. It recently underwent a When Lara (Julie Christie) slaps restoration, so it’s certainKomarovsky (Rod Steiger) and he slaps ly worth looking out for her back; that was unscripted and entirely and putting three hours to improvised. The stunned reaction on one side to enjoy this visual and aural feast; Christie’s face is totally genuine. made right here in Spain.

FUN FACT:

Advertising Feature

VERSEAS SUPERMERCADOS is a chain of British stores across Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, offering customers the comforting taste of home while abroad. Their stores stock everything from best-known British brands, to Iceland’s freezer essentials, fresh local produce, and Waitrose must-haves. The chain also supply greetings cards, household items and cleaning products from familiar UK brands. Starting from humble beginnings, Overseas Imports began trading in the late 1990s when the company’s Chairman, started importing goods into Tenerife to bars and restaurants on the island. The company now serves customers in Spain, the Canary Islands and Portugal. Its Costa del Sol branches include stores in Mijas, Puerto Banus, So-

A taste of home

HUGE VARIETY: Overseas Supermercados offer shops in the Canary Islands, Spain, and Portugal. togrande, and an express shop in Calahonda. Overseas Supermercados now stocks everything from fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods, to British chilled goods, including bacon, dips,

and smoothies. The chain also offers food cupboard staples such as baked beans, cereals, and baking supplies, as well as British frozen foods, drinks, and cleaning products. The chain provides a large

selection of foods to its expatriate customer base, as well as local residents and holidaymakers. Whilst there is a great selection of products in Spain, sometimes customers just cannot find their favourite item.

Overseas Supermercados love to provide choice, which is why they stock a huge variety of all products. The store also prides itself on delivering excellent customer service, with many of its customers visiting for years. Similarly, their committed staff are very passionate about what they do, and some of them have been with the company since the store opened. Staff are all willing to go the extra mile to source a specific item, making Overseas Supermercados the ideal place to find a particular food. Overseas Supermercados issue regular promotions and weekly offers, and also run a seven-day deal every Friday with much loved items on discount at bargain prices. Shoppers can also sign up in store to receive a Bonus Card, with members receiving vouchers throughout the year.

The chain is also expanding; coming soon are two new stores; one in Moraira and the other in Cabo Roig. For more information, please visit Facebook.com/Overseasspain or www.overseas.es. Overseas Supermercados are open Monday to Saturday until 9pm. In some cases, during the summer months and seasonal periods, selected stores are also open Sunday. For full opening hours, contact 0034 965 734 000, or visit www.overseas.es, Instagram.com/Overseassupermarkets, or Facebook.com/Overseasspain.

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Interview - Overseas Supermercados

British food at a competitive price What does Overseas Supermercados provide? We are proud to be one of the only British food retailers serving customers fresh, frozen and grocery products from some of the most popular British household brands and supermarkets, allowing our customers to enjoy the food they love at competitive, stable prices. How large is your range? We carry an extremely wide stock, including fresh fruit, vegetables and baked goods. We also sell chilled foods everything from British bacon to dairy, dips

and smoothies - as well as food cupboard staples, including cereals, sauces, confectionary, crisps, snacks, condiments, and home baking supplies. Our frozen food section also includes frozen meat, ready meals, pizzas, pies, desserts and more, as well as Slimming World meals and Greggs products. In terms of drinks, we sell wellknown soft drinks, beers, wines, and spirits, while our household cleaning section also stocks a large variety of name brand supplies. We are often told by customers that they

Serving customers fresh, frozen and grocery products. popped in for some Lea & Perrins Worcester Sauce and ended up with a week’s worth of shopping! How did the company start out? In 1996, the company’s chairman purchased an empty warehouse on a small industrial estate just outside the airport in Las Chafiras, Tenerife. The warehouse was to be the start of Over-

BRITISH FOOD: Selling everything from bacon to dairy and food cupboard staples. seas Imports entry into the retail market. The warehouse was to incorporate a cold-store, a warehouse and a supermarket which would offer the public a butcher’s department and an in-store cafe. In 1997, the company negotiated with supermarket chains in the United Kingdom to obtain a sales agreement. Shortly after, Overseas Supermerca-

dos entered into a working partnership with Iceland Frozen Foods Plc. How much have you expanded since? Fast forward to 2019, Overseas Supermercados can now be found in a number of locations across Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands. We have stores in Javea, Benissa, Benidorm, San Fulgencio, Torrevieja,

Campoverde, San Javier, Vera, Mijas, Calahonda, Puerto Banus, and Sotogrande in Spain. In addition, we have stores in Las Chafiras, Los Cristianos, and Torviscas in Tenerife, as well as in Playa Honda, Manrique/Puerto Del Carmen, and Playa Blanca in Lanzarote. We also have stores in Portugal; in Albufeira, Portimao, Gale, and Almancil.

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Spain is a world leader

SPAIN is forging ahead as one of the most successful tourism destinations in the world. In 2018 it attracted the third largest number of tourists out of any country in the world, according to new figures from the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). Around 82.6 million holidaymakers came to Spain. The country

came behind France (second), and the US, first in the ranking of visitors. UNWTO head Zurab Pololikashivili said the figures showed that Spain remained a leading destination for tourists. Around 1.4 billion people across the world travelled to another country for a holiday in 2018, 6

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per cent more than the previous year. While the numbers are a considerable advance over 2015 when around 68 million international travellers paid a visit to Spain, the absolute growth in numbers over last year was about 400,000 over 2017. But spending rose by 3.1 per cent to €90 billion.

BUSY BEACH: A popular destination.

Advertising Feature

Flowers for every occasion B

ON HAND: The team at Bunches Flowers.

UNCHES FLOWERS is a family business based on Fuengirola’s Calle Huelva and run by Shona and her daughter Shelly, who have been based on the Costa del Sol for 30 years. Shona has her sitting guilds in floristry and was trained in Glasgow. The shop has a wide selection of fresh flowers, national and imported with a good selection of house plants. The business has been branching out

over the last years specialising in weddings and events, working from recommendations, the website, social media and with some of the wedding coordinators on the coast. “Every wedding is so special and individual we are so happy to be part of this big day,” Shona says. As well as the fun work delivering the flowers for the special

o c c a sions and seeing the surprised happy faces when receiving a bouquet for either their birthday, anniversary, or just because the occasion is right. There is the sad part of the business when someone close passes and they need flowers

for the funeral. But Bunches understands this and sympathise with the loss of a loved one so they can help choose the flowers and even help to organise contacts to arrange the funeral.

For more information contact Shona on 667 433 622, Shelly on 697 793 861 or email: flowersinspain@gmail.com. You can also find Bunches on Facebook at Bunches Flowers.

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Interview - Bunches

Growing and branching out BUNCHES FLOWERS in Fuengirola is run by mother and daughter team Shona and Shelly Stevenson and offers buyers up and down the coast a range of bespoke options for floral arrangements. Shona spoke to Euro Weekly News about her business, how it started, how it’s going and where she plans to take it in the future. What is your background and how did your business start? “I was first trained in Glasgow before I moved to Spain in 1990. I’ve now been here almost 30 years and I work with my daughter Shelly who

was brought up here. “We moved into the Flores y Inmaculada building on Fuengirola’s Calle Huelva and now there is not only us working here, but we also have five people on call for busy days. “But it is still a family business.” What can customers expect from Bunches Flowers? “We’re one of the leading florists on the Costa del Sol and we serve much of the coast. “We work within the

budget of the client and offer very competitive prices. “We specialise in special occasions including weddings, birthdays, private functions or for if you just feel like getting some flowers to give a loved one.” “We’re also here for the sad times too and cater for funerals. “I remember I once got a phone call at 5am asking for an arrangement for a funeral taking place at 10am. “The arrangement

SHONA STEVENSON: Offers a range of bespoke options for floral arrangements.

We’re looking at growing Bunches and branching out. was all ready to go within hours of that call. “We get regular customers who come back to us and we have

some great reviews on Facebook. “If customers order flowers before midday then we can deliver on the same day to anywhere from Elviria to Mijas, to Fuengirola and Benalmadena.” What are your plans for the future? “We’re now looking at growing Bunches and branching out. We’re

We are also contactable on email at: flowersinspain@gmail.com. You can also call me on 667 433 622 or Shelly on 697 793 861. Our website is: www.bunchesspain.com and we are on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/bunchesflowersspain/.

expanding year by year and although we already serve a good chunk of the coast we plan to keep moving forward. “We want to build on the almost 30 years of experience that we have cultivated so far.” How can customers get in touch? “Customers are welcome to pop into the shop if they want to have a look at our range and talk to us about what we can offer them.”

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PAIN has a long and successful tradition of music which is alive and well today, having also been exported to all corners of the world. Flamenco, rumba, ye-ye and other styles grew out of Spanish folk ways and culture over centuries. Each has spawned several composers, musicians, singers and stars. The Spanish have also successfully turned their hands to crafting instruments. The guitar, perhaps the most famous, is now synonymous with music itself the world over. The guitar was adapted from the Arabic oud instrument which arrived in Spain in the eighth century during the Moorish conquest of the Iberian Peninsula. It evolved over hundreds of years before becoming the instrument we known today with Antonio Torres Jurado’s design in around 1850. The instrument is used extensively in both Flamenco and its offshoot Rumba. The styles are now favourites among travellers visiting Spain and the Spanish themselves, as well as having be-

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Making music the Spanish way ing exported to Latin America and throughout the world. Flamenco, which originated in Andalucia, is characterised by guitar and vocal accompaniments to dancing. Rumba meanwhile developed in the 20th century, coming to Spain as an import from Cuba and taking cues on form from Flamenco. It has since evolved and has spawned a variety of regional sub-genres. Other Spanish folk music traditions include instruments and features many English speakers would recognise, including bagpipes played in northern regions such as Galicia and the Basque Country. Flamenco, Rumba and other folk styles fed into the Spanish popular music of the post-war era and of today. Spanish artists in the 1950s and 1960s took inspiration

from rock n’ roll being produced in Britain and the US. The country’s first music festival, the Benidorm International Song Festival, arrived in 1959. Home-grown pop music began flourishing in Spain from the 1980s onwards. Today’s pop music stars include the ‘Queen of Flamenco’ Concha Buika who is popular across the Spanish-speaking world and three-time Grammy winner Alejandro Sanz. One of Spain’s most famous contemporary music exports is Enrique Iglesias. Also promoting Spain on the world’s musical stage is the Gypsy Kings. Although they were born in southern France, members of the Gypsy Kings are descended from Spanish emigrants and perform in their ancestors’ language and style.

HIT MAKERS: Flamenco and the guitar are among Spain’s most famous musical exports.

A fashion giant W MAVERICKS: Richard Branson and Steve Jobs.

Being a success

OR some people, running a business gives a sense of pride, as well as a degree of freedom. Surviving another day, another month, another year can give you a real buzz. A buzz you can only appreciate when you’ve done it, and felt it. For others, the business is more of a lifestyle, allowing a level of freedom which being an employee can never

provide. Perhaps this type of business is ideal for life’s mavericks, those who don’t conform in the usual way. People who think outside the box which so many of us prefer to stay in. Elliroma Gardner, an organisational psychologist at the London School of Economics and Political Science, found employees with maverick personalities could be secret weapons for making

businesses successful. Mavericks include the likes of Richard Branson and the late Steve Jobs. Risk takers, philanthropists, innovators who are always looking at things from a different angle. If you want to be a business success, whether that means financial success or some other type of lifestyle success, then being an entrepreneur may be the road for you.

HEN it comes to billionaire success stories, Spain has its very own to rival any in the world. From opening his first Zara store in 1975 with his wife Rosalía Mera, Amancio Ortega’s business has grown to dominate the world of fashion retail. His businesses now have around 92,000 employees worldwide, with stores in 94 countries and more opening each year. His business Inditex has made him phenomenally wealthy with Ortega currently worth around €53 billion on paper. With such popular brands as Zara, Pull & Bear, Stradivarius and Bershka, the company just keeps on growing. It recently launched Zara.com in India to give it a total of 46 different national online websites.

INTERNATIONAL: Zara’s store in Shanghai. Ortega himself was not born into wealth. The youngest of four children, he was born in Busdongo de Arbas, Leon, Spain, to Antonio Ortega Rodríguez and Josefa Gaona Hernández from the province of Valladolid. He left school and moved to A Coruña at the age of 14, due to the job of his father, a railway worker. Shortly after, he found a job as a shop hand for a local shirtmaker called Gala and

learned to make clothes by hand. In 1972, he founded Confecciones Goa to sell quilted bathrobes before opening Zara and starting his meteoric rise to becoming the wealthiest retailer in the world. President of Inditex Group Pablo Isola can only see continued growth and has confirmed the company is committed to social and environmental goals to ensure staff and customers are treated fairly.

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Advertising Feature

PETER BOWERMAN (left): Is always happy to talk directly with clients in one of their welcoming offices.

A passion for property ‘Making your Overseas Dreams a Reality’

VERSEAS DREAMS have provided market leading Real Estate services on the Costa del Sol for many years now from both their Marbella and La Cala de Mijas registered offices. Founded by their CEO Peter Bowerman, his incredible passion for property has shown throughout his successful 25-year career. This passion is evident and carried throughout his whole team, whom he personally trains on a regular basis, paying particular attention to the customer journey from every angle of the business. Peter likes attention to detail and is always looking to make sure the client experience from start to finish is easy, pleasurable and delivers the results that clients are looking for. No wonder the company is thriving and gets such good testimonials and referrals from past clients. Many local and International celebrities / top business people have bought through Peter over the years. A typical example of the Overseas Dreams pro-

OVERSEAS DREAMS: Make them your first call if you are thinking of selling your property. active approach is the recent launch of their fantastic new, user and mobile friendly property portal / website, where you can now quickly and easily search just about every property for sale on the Costa del Sol between Malaga and Gibraltar (over 16,000 properties). The site is updated nightly and also packed with helpful information and services including the full sales process, costs and advice for both buyers and sellers. You will get expert advice from Overseas Dreams Estate Agency, as Peter is also

one of the most published Costa del Sol property experts in both the UK and Spanish press, having spent most of his working life as a professional Real Estate agent and Valuer in both countries. Peter used to be on the panel of experts for the world renowned OPP Magazine (Overseas Property Professionals) and still writes for many of the top property magazines every month with regular slots on local radio giving insight into the Costa del Sol property market, tips on how best to sell your property and

advice to buyers on the best areas / properties to invest in. Peter is always happy to talk directly with clients in one of their welcoming offices. Overseas Dreams are proud to sell all types of property from Marbella mansions, prestige new homes and even bargain bank repossessions, as Spain’s first dedicated bank repossession and forced sale website was also set up by Peter in 2006. This number one ranked website for distressed sale deals, became the leading website for bargain hunters

looking in Spain. These forced sales deals are now shown on the new Overseas Dreams website which is often used by Spanish banks, private sellers, lawyers and liquidation companies to market their repossessions, distressed sales and probate deals, making it one of the best places to find everything from a genuine bargain to a luxury palace. If you are thinking about selling a property on the Costa del Sol, then Overseas Dreams should be your first call, as they spend a small fortune marketing their properties all over Europe, via the best property papers, lifestyle magazines and four of Spain’s top property portals to maximise exposure of their client’s properties. As a Master Agent they have their own network of Agents and are a member of three other interagency networks, which massively benefits both sellers and buyers. Sellers benefit as they can market their property through thousands of other Agents along the coast as well as overseas and yet only have to deal with one Agent from Overseas Dreams that will show every client around. Purchasers benefit as they can search just about every property for sale all along the Costa del Sol and then view them with just one Overseas Dreams Agent.

For more information on buying or selling property on the Costa del Sol, contact Peter or any of his team at Overseas Dreams, you won’t be disappointed. info@OverseasDreams.com • Tel: (0034) 951 551 444

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