Slim down this Summer with Slim4Life
With Summer almost here NOW is the time to make those changes you have always been promising yourself!
Here at Slim4life, we help support you not only to lose weight but to maintain the weight loss in a natural way. We understand how hard it can be to lose weight and with so much contradictory information and options out there it can be difficult to know where to start. Here at Slim4life we aim to work with your body and its natural processes so that you can lose weight in a healthy way, while understanding and making the necessary changes within your lifestyle to maintain the weight loss in the long term.
It is not about getting everyone to a certain size but rather it's about what is right for you. Through one-to-one coaching we
help you to understand your current habits and triggers, what different foods are doing within your body that contribute to weight gain or loss and what changes can be made so that you can be in control of your diet choices and lifestyle. Knowledge is power and we are here to help you regain power over your life and your decisions.
We use a wide variety of nutritionally balanced meal replacements to make losing weight easy, fast and enjoyable. We have a variety of plan options depending on your individual needs and lifestyle. The hardest part is to make the first move to get started but we promise you that when you do you will feel much better! Once you have lost the weight you wish, we then support you through a staged management programme to allow your body to adapt to different foods and calorie intake again, helping to maintain the weight loss in the long term. This is the key to long term success that many weight loss programmes and options do not offer!
We not only work with women but many men too. Here is our latest testimony from one of our male clients;
“I always wanted to lose a bit of weight but I love my food and it was always a struggle to get to get my weight down even a kg or two and keep it off, but I decided to give the programme a try and I was so surprised at how quickly I lost 10kg and how tasty the meals were. I now have much more energy, can still enjoy my foods while keeping my weight down. I noticed a big difference on my ability on my latest skiing trips, now that I am not carrying as much weight. It's incredible.” Mr. I. Smith.
We have helped thousands of people achieve long term weight loss, call us today on 0034 711 065 468 or email slim4life.es@gmail.com for a free, no obligation, informal consultation in our Benijofar office.
Now is the time to take back control of your life and your body! You are a priority and you also deserve to feel good and be healthy.
Travel Smart, Travel Protected
As the days start to feel warmer, many of us begin planning our next getaway. Whether it’s an early summer holiday, a city break, or a long-awaited trip abroad, having something booked brings excitement and something to look forward to. While arranging flights and accommodation is all part of the fun, making sure you’re properly insured is just as important.
Jennifer Cunningham Insurance offers straightforward and reliable travel insurance designed for residents of Spain. With a choice of Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip policies, there’s flexibility to suit both occasional travellers and those who travel more frequently. Whether you’re away for a few days or several weeks, cover can be tailored to your plans, with discounts available for couples and families.
It’s also important to consider current global events when arranging your insurance. Due to ongoing tensions in parts of the Middle East, acts of war are not covered under standard policies. However, Europesure offers an optional Terrorism Disruption extension, which can provide cover if your trip is affected by acts of terrorism, including cancellation, curtailment, or delays.
Europesure has recently introduced a new and more flexible travel insurance product, developed in response to customer feedback. Underwritten by Sompo International, a globally recognised A-rated insurer, this updated policy provides greater choice and reassurance.
Clients can still opt for Lloyd’s cover, but the new scheme includes several key enhancements. These include extending Single Trip cover up to age 89, including COVID-19 cover as standard, and offering cancellation cover of up to €10,000 per person on Platinum policies. Optional cover limits have also been increased, and dependent children are covered up to age 21 if in full-time education.
There are also a range of optional add-ons to suit different types of trips. Winter Sports cover is ideal for ski holidays, Golf cover offers protection for equipment and Gadget cover helps safeguard your devices - because losing your phone while travelling can quickly become a major inconvenience.
With Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels available, you can choose the level of cover that best fits your needs and budget. All policies include essential protection for cancellation, emergency medical expenses, lost or delayed baggage, travel documents, and personal liability.
Ultimately, travelling without insurance is a risk not worth taking. Arranging cover before you go means you can relax and enjoy your trip, knowing you’re protected if the unexpected happens. For a no-obligation quote, visit www.jennifercunningham.net or call 965 795 372.
The Easter bunny will soon be hopping around and I am loving all the chocolate goodies available in local stores. The only problem being is that whenever I call in to get some essentials like bread and milk, I end up spending a lot more on treats that I simply can't resist when walking past, this is doing nothing for my waistline!!
There is a lot happening during this coming month with many towns having processions over the Easter period and the monthly event “Rodearte” at the Cuevas del Rodeo in Rojales being held on Easter Sunday from midday. In April, the entertainment is brought to you by the fantastic FMC, a show not to be missed, and I'm sure it will be a packed out day.
There is also the Expo in Torrevieja Auditorium being held on 11th & 12th April from 10am till 3pm which attracts all nationalities to this poplular event. St George's Day will be celebrated later on in the month where I am sure many bars and restaurants will be doing their thing to make sure it is a memorable one, and then there is the San Javier Air show at the beginning of May, which is said to be one of the largest air shows ever seen in the region.
Whatever you decide to do, make sure you enjoy. Until next time ….
Michelle
QFocus On Magazine covering the Alicante South region and Focus On Magazine covering the Alicante North region.
QFocus Office: Mon to Fri. 10am - 2pm Tel. 657 501 055
Pick up your next issue on 5 May Deadline for advertising & editorial - 18 April.
Soluna Vista Lounge Bar & Restaurant, Quesada
The grand opening of Soluna Vista was a huge success with hoards of customers turning up to show their support and celebrate the long awaited opening of this venue.
From the opening of the doors at 11am to the end of the night, the place was packed to the rafters and the staff coped very well with serving the flocks of people, whether on the large terrace while the sun was shining, or inside later on in the evening.
Everyone was well catered for with face painting for the kids and Big Radio providing the daytime entertainment. Moving into the evening we were entertained with an Oasis Tribute band and the fabulous Marsy to get the crowds up dancing. Sample food was served throughout the day and night, which was all delicious, and a great way to tantalise the taste buds in preparation for opening of the kitchen. All in all, a great time was had by all and I'm sure this was the first of many to come.
There are many plans for future events in the coming months and I am sure the summer season will be a huge success for Soluna with the renovated pool and terrace area.
The kitchen is now up and running and their menu can be viewed on their Facebook page 'Soluna Vista', along with upcoming events, so make sure give it a follow to keep up to date.
Soluna Vista can be found on Calle Toledo Nº16, Ciudad Quesada. Tel: 691 830 604.
WORD SEARCH
Find all the Spanish words from the word list in the puzzle grid. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally. Answers can be found in the back of the magazine. Good Luck.
ACOSTARSE: TO LIE DOWN
ANDAR: TO WALK
ARRASTRAR: TO DRAG
BAILAR: TO DANCE
CAMINAR DE PUNTILLAS: TO TIPTOE
CORRER: TO RUN
CULEBREAR: TO WRIGGLE / SNAKE
DEAMBULAR: TO AMBLE
DESLIZARSE: TO SLIDE / GLIDE
EMPUJAR: TO PUSH
ESCALAR: TO CLIMB
GATEAR: TO CRAWL
LEVANTARSE: TO GET UP
MOVER: TO MOVE
NADAR: TO SWIM
PARAR: TO STOP
RESBALAR: TO SLIP
SALTAR: TO JUMP
SENTARSE: TO SIT DOWN
TIRAR: TO PULL
TROPEZAR: TO STUMBLE / TRIP
TROTAR: TO JOG VENIR: TO COME
See back pages for answers
Spot the 13 differences
(answers in the back pages)
Expo Torrevieja Returns on 11–12
April with Two Days of Inspiration, Entertainment and Community Spirit
Excitement is building for the return of Expo Torrevieja, one of the Southern Costa Blanca’s most popular lifestyle events, which will take place on Saturday and Sunday, 11 and 12 April, at the Auditorio Internacional de Torrevieja.
Now firmly established as a highlight of the local calendar, the two-day expo promises a lively showcase of everything that makes the area such a vibrant place to live, work and visit. With free admission and free parking, organisers are expecting close to 10,000 visitors over the weekend.
More than 180 exhibitors will be taking part, offering a broad mix of products, services and ideas. Visitors can browse stands from property specialists, legal and financial advisers, health and wellbeing providers, mobility experts, home improvement companies, technology suppliers, artisans and lifestyle businesses. So whether you are looking for practical information, fresh inspiration or simply an enjoyable day out, there will be plenty to see.
One of the expo’s most popular features is the Clubs and Associations Zone, which this year is expected to be bigger than ever. This area highlights the rich community life across Torrevieja, Orihuela Costa and the wider Vega Baja, giving visitors the chance to find out more about local social groups, sports clubs, hobby organisations and volunteering opportunities. For many, especially newcomers, it is an ideal way to make new connections and discover what the area has to offer.
Charities and community organisations will also be strongly represented, continuing the event’s long-standing tradition
of supporting good causes and recognising the valuable work carried out across the Costa Blanca.
Entertainment will add to the atmosphere throughout the weekend, particularly on Saturday, when local performers, choirs and community groups will help bring the event to life. Music, cultural displays and live performances also will reflect the area’s diverse and international character. The expo will begin for exhibitors with a Friday evening Meet and Greet in the main auditorium, where Torrevieja Mayor Eduardo Dolón is expected to be the keynote speaker. Across the weekend, live talks and demonstrations will keep visitors engaged, while giveaways and spot prizes will add an extra touch of excitement, including the chance for one lucky couple to win a Mediterranean cruise.
Weather permitting, the ever-popular classic car, motorbike and scooter display will return on Sunday morning, adding even more interest to the event grounds.
With doors open from 10am to 3pm on both days, Expo Torrevieja is once again set to offer a memorable weekend packed with ideas, entertainment and community spirit.
SUDOKU
Here are two Sudoku puzzles of different skill levels for you to try. It is not a math game at all - it is a pure logic game.
Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 x 3 grid contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repeats, which means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.
To check your answers go to the back pages of this magazine.
Good luck.
The Vega Baja Astronomy Group
At last I've got a chance to talk about who our members are and what we actually get up to.
The group is quite a mix of people, there are various nationalities and a pretty much equal number of men and women. No-one fits many people's idea of an amateur astronomer, not a single eccentric old bloke who talks gibberish - Patrick Moore was the only astronomer most British people have ever heard of, and a very great enthusiast, but he was far from typical and not like anyone else I've ever met.
So, just who are the people in our group? There are a healthy number of people who are new to astronomy, often they have had a passing interest during their lives but never had time to really get to know more about it. All of us try to nurture newcomers interest, we try to be aware that it's easy to put people off by talking about some technical interest of our own, mostly we seem to manage this OK. There is one thing that becomes obvious to most newcomers, everyone is happy to help, to explain and to encourage, but we can never do the reading and learning of the basics for you, it's a hobby and for anyone to get to grips with it takes a little effort.
Astronomy isn't just one subject, it covers a huge variety of things. Cosmology, Planetary science, Physics, Spectroscopy and Mathematics, are just a few of the fancy sounding subjects, As you'd expect, some of us have special interests, Spectroscopy is just one of them. Spectroscopy is breaking up the light from a star (for example) and working out it's age, what elements it's using and much more. An amateur can even tell if a star might explode.
Photographing the stars, planets, galaxies etc is a popular interest which digital cameras and computers have changed
completely since I was young.
An astrophotographer friend of mine takes pictures from his garden that are better than professionals with huge telescopes could have managed a few decades ago. Mind you, although he denies it, he's one of the best around, and always happy to help anyone.
Most members of the group aren't specialists, they're just interested in looking up and trying to understand what is there. We all get a kick out of seeing the night sky, recognising a constellation, spotting a planet or finding the galaxy Andromeda with our binoculars. No one ever forgets seeing Saturn's rings for the first time, but an amateur astronomer will want to know what they're made from, why there are gaps in the rings and just what are those strange moons doing!
We all get together every couple of weeks for a chat and a bite to eat at one of our members house. Not too long ago, members went on a group visit to an observatory down in Murcia, a great time was had by everyone.
If you've got the impression we are an enthusiastic bunch who will welcome anyone who's interested, then I've done my job properly, all you have to do is contact us. It's worth remembering that we have a couple of major solar eclipses not long away, you could come and pick our brains on how to get the most from them.
That's all for this month, happy stargazing.
● To find out more about observing and astronomy why not join our group, email us at vegabaja.astronomygroup@gmail.com to find out more.
Charles Oates, Vega Baja Astronomy Group.
EFFORTLESS MONEY-SAVING: YOUR HABITATION LICENCE GUIDE
A valid habitation licence is a pivotal document for marketing your property to estate agents, solicitors, or potential buyers. Here are savvy tips to help you save:
Breakdown Clarity: When dealing with habitation licences, always seek a detailed cost breakdown. Expenses vary by town hall. For example, Orihuela charges 102€ to 111€, while Torrevieja requires just a 17.50€ Registration Fee. Get a clear picture of taxes and technical fees.
Architect’s Role: Only architects can provide the necessary certificate for the licence. If considering others, check for additional commissions. Ensure your quotation spells out all fees.
Registration Tax Insights: Common registration taxes in some areas:
Orihuela: 102-111 €
Torrevieja: 17.50 €
Rojales: 50 €
San Fulgencio: 50 €
San Miguel de Salinas: 100 €
Obtaining a Habitation Licence is a breeze. After confirming, Martinez de la Casa Architects will schedule a property survey, needing your NIE, latest SUMA bill, and Title Deeds. The processed licence arrives within 10 working days. We handle everything, including tax payment – you simply coordinate the survey. Habitation licence costs differ by Town Hall. Contact us for a quotation or free phone advice.
Martinez de la Casa Architects is the go-to for Building Certifications, offering Energy Performance Certificates (121€ inc IVA), Habitation/Occupation Licences, and Retrospective Licences (pools 326.70 €, extensions 363 € IVA Inc). For inquiries or appointments, call 665 810 411 (English) or explore our website www.martinezdelacasa.com with 300+ glowing testimonials.
Each spring in the Netherlands, the start of the “fish doorbell” season marks a unique blend of ecology, technology, and public participation. In the city of Utrecht, the system went live at the beginning of March, coinciding with the beginning of fish migration through Dutch waterways.
As water temperatures rise, thousands of fish such as perch, pike, and eel begin swimming upstream to reach spawning grounds. However, canal locks like the Weerdsluis often remain closed, creating a barrier. The fish doorbell solves this problem through a simple but innovative idea: an underwater camera streams live footage online, allowing viewers around the world to watch for fish at the gate. When someone spots one, they press a virtual “doorbell,” alerting a lock keeper to open the sluice and let the fish pass.
The season usually runs from March to late May or June, with activity gradually increasing and peaking in April as migration intensifies. Early in the season, there are often more viewers than fish, but participation quickly grows into a global phenomenon, with millions tuning in each year.
Beyond its novelty, the fish doorbell highlights environmental awareness, helping improve fish survival and offering valuable data on biodiversity in Dutch canals.
Last year the grandchildren and I had a challenge to see how many fish we could let through. They won of course as one morning they let dozens through. It can become very addictive, but as it’s such a good cause it is one time we don’t mind them being in front of a screen.
Visit https://visdeurbel.nl/en/ to find out more.
Happy 100th Birthday
Vera
Vera Mary Birt, born in London on 14th March 1926 celebrated her 100th birthday sharing a buffet lunch along with over 50 friends and family at the Colina Club Retirement Village. She moved to the retirement village from Denia 21 years ago in June 2005 after her husband died and still enjoys living independently in one of the apartments.
Ana Sala Mayoress of Calpe & Itziar Doval Councilor for Social Services made a surprise visit with flowers for Vera!
Kenny Corris brings you
Aries: Mars transits into your sign bringing an energy boost that is much needed right now. Boosting initiatives and supporting new ventures; sees Mars using power in a positive way, and gives you the strength to do what you have to.
Taurus: The Sun enters Taurus this month whilst the Moon is in Gemini. Here is a strong focus on values and commitments. Somebody will get their comeuppance, at long last, and this will now bring you to take appropriate action!
Gemini: Uranus enters at 10 degrees of your sign, bringing innovations and new beginnings all across the board. Subtle changes will be swift and effective and though out of your control, well in line with your deepest and sincere desires.
Cancer: The Full Moon at 12 degrees of Libra focuses on a partnership issue that’s starting to veer out of control; and needs balance. Silence isn’t working and you need to make changes now to make progress that resolves any more conflict.
Leo: The First Quarter Moon in Leo heralds a month of social connections and fun. Your positive and endearing energies are great for getting the party started. Someone needs your love and care right now, but can’t get to you.
Virgo: This is a great month to network and make decisions for yourself, for a change. As Uranus transits Gemini the spotlight is on your career so allow for expansion and add personal life skills into your working life to get your rewards.
OUR OROSCOPE
Libra: There have been unexpected changes recently. Shifts this month and a full Moon in your sign make it a time of transformation. Rather than wait for something to happen, take action. You cannot go wrong if you believe in you!
Scorpio: With Mars in Aries you are motivated this month and it’s time to take on something new. Stay safe by staying close to your guidelines; they are not set in stone but they define and support you to bring in the changes you wish to make.
Sagittarius: In a complex month be unafraid to look within: you may like what you see! This is a time for both exploration and introspection and the New Moon at 27 degrees of Aries heralds new beginnings and much joy!
Capricorn: The Last Quarter Moon at 20 degrees of your sign sees you focusing on goals, but for you, at this time; if you really want to score, know that it is ambition that will really win the day. You are far more than you think that you are!
Aquarius: With Mercury in Aries and Venus in Taurus, for once you have to have the courage of your convictions and say something. So much is on hold for you but holding back is not any longer an option. Tell it like it is right now.
Pisces: With Mercury conjunct in Saturn and Mars in Aries this busy month, take time for yourself because inner peace and serenity bring you the clarity you deserve. Someone has been economical with the truth and don’t you know it now!
As an Astrologer, Kenny has worked for over forty years to produce quality Horoscopes Worldwide. He has received a major Award for his contribution to the Astrological Arts by being voted into the Top Twenty World’s Best Astrologers by the American Federation of Certified Psychics. He is awarded five stars as a Lightworker, and Psychic Medium. For personal readings/ castings please call Kenny on: 686 361 594. kennycorris@hotmail.com, www.kennycorris.com. Confidential and Personal Reply Guaranteed! Online Readings: by Zoom, Skype,WhatsApp, Viber, FaceTime.
THE AIRCREW ASSOCIATION COSTA BLANCA
The association, formed in 1988, exists to foster comradeship amongst those who, having been awarded an official flying badge, have qualified to operate military aircraft and are serving or have served, as military aircrew in the armed forces of the United Kingdom or those nations which are allies of the United Kingdom or the Commonwealth. If you are interested in joining this popular association or would like to know more, please call the Secretary on 966 495 228.
ACTS: Tickets are now available for their next production, the amazing farce “Drinking Habits”. With a talented director in Julia Parker you, our audience will love it… At a Convent Nuns are secretly making and selling wine for survival! Mother Superior has no idea. Undercover reporters get into hilarious predicaments. Other secrets are revealed. Dates 14th to 16th May, Benijofar Cultural Centre, start 7.30pm prompt. Tickets are 12€ from - Post Box, Doña Pepa - Big FM, Quesada - Card Place, Benimar. Reservations Tel 711 090 400.
Andante International
from the 60s to modern day. We give lots of performances throughout the year and raise lots of money for local charities along the way. If you like to sing, want to have lots of fun doing it, make new friends and help good causes too, then why not come along to THE CLUB QUESADA, C. TOLEDO 24, 03170, QUESADA. We rehearse every THURSDAY 1.30-3.30pm, you will be made very welcome, there’s no audition, so what have you to lose? We look forward to seeing you soon. If you would like us to perform at one of your events or you need any more information regarding joining our singing group, please get in touch with us via MMspain2025@outlook.com or contact our chairperson, Shirley on WhatsApp 608 95 87 57, you can also check out our Facebook page, Melody Makers Singing Group Quesada.
Choir is the only choir in the Costa Blanca community devoted to sacred choral works and classical pieces. They meet in Los Montesinos at Calle San Antonio, 4 on Thursday nights from 7.15pm until 9pm. All are welcome to join them. They especially need tenors and basses. For more information contact Andante International Choir member Sue Lewey at suelewey@gmail.com. Also see the Facebook page, Andante International Choir (Spain). The Costa Blanca Singers are delighted to roll out their new ‘Spring Set’ to you with their next performance on Easter Monday at Charlie’s Bar in Consum Square La Marina urbanizacion. Take your seats for 2pm. You will be thrilled with the variety of the song choices. As a well-established singing group in its fourth year, a new exciting opportunity now arises for an addition to the team. The position of Musical Director will be available later this year. Do you already possess these skills or would you like the opportunity to learn them? You are encouraged to go along to any open rehearsal and see for yourself, whether as a singer or with the possibility of taking on the role as Musical Director. Could this be you? We look forward to seeing you. Take a look at www.costablancasingers.com for much more information. Crescendo International Choir: Do you like to sing? Every Monday evening Crescendo International Choir rehearses and we welcome new members. No previous experience required. We rehearse at Rincon de Miguel restaurant in Los Montesinos between 17:30 to 19:45 every Monday. For more details, see crescendo-choir.com. You can also follow the group on Facebook at Crescendo Choir. If you have other questions, email info@crescendo-choir.com.
Let’s Rock are practising their upcoming programme of great rock and pop songs put together for the ‘Across The Decades’ concerts to be held on the 1st April and 8th April at Oasis at 7.30pm. We look forward to seeing you there. Check out our Facebook page for more inormation. If you would like to join our unique and fabulous rock choir, please contact Sarah in the first instance. Tel 0034 650 054 467, WhatsApp or email singinggroup@outlook.com. Facebook https://www.facebook. com/groups/611344271790245/
Melody Makers Singing Group Quesada is an international, mixed singing group who sing a variety of music genres,
Rojales Pantomime Group: Peter Pan & The Lost Boys script was wholeheartedly embraced by the group and a requested a pre-read through took place on 11th March. An official read through will be held on 15th April and the auditions, on 18th April. The group have also made two more donations; namely the San Fulgencio Union Musica school and also to the Rojales Social Services - both very worthy causes. Preparations are in motion, all we need now is our cast. If you would like to take part in Panto 2026either on stage or helping behind the scenes, please drop us a line to: rojalespantomime123@gmail.com. Expect a warm welcome from this sociable and friendly group. The Stagestruck Players commenced the Month of March with a very successful afternoon performance at Happy Days Too in Benimar. Sara Davies organised the event made up of fun games and a raffle that concluded with the Murder Mystery. Sara handed a grand total of €702.37 to Leigh, the Stagestruck Players director and Writer who will ensure that every penny goes to their chosen Charity, the Torrevieja Alzheimer’s Association. A fantastic time was had by all and Happy Days Too are already planning for their next fundraising Murder Mystery at Christmas. If you are interested in finding out about future Murder Mystery evenings, email Leigh at leigh.humphries58mail.com and ask to be added to the Stagestruck Player’s Mailing list.
We at Studio32 would like to thank over 700 of you wonderful supporters for already obtaining your tickets for our next musical performance ‘Dolly Parton’s 9to5. These early sales help us in so many ways. Remaining tickets are still available - visit our Studio32 Facebook page for more information and to obtain a peek at how the rehearsals are developing and to meet the characters. You can also meet some of the team at this month’s EXPO event in Torrevieja. You will be equally as thrilled with 9to5 as you were with Sister Act. Everyone in the company is extremely excited and we all look forward to entertaining you once again.
If you would like to be part of this band of charitable entertainers, please email editor@femalefocusonline.com. Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month prior to publication. Full details of all Stage Diary entertainment groups are available online at www.femalefocusonline.com
COSTA BLANCA SOUTH
Founded by Benny Davis in 2007
Stroke Self-help Support Group
Tuesdays 11am at The Bar, Guardamar Park (Rincon da Luna). CV920, 2.5km, Guardamar del Segura, 03140
The group will offer friendship and support to anyone who has suffered a stroke and their carers. If you think this could be for you, please come along to our group. You will be very welcome.
Please contact me - Maureen Powell
Maureen-powell@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 0044 7912 947098
Cornerstone PentecostalEvangelical Church
Calle Escultor Ribera Girona 67, Pilar De La Horadada. Sunday Worship commences at 11am. For more information please visit our website: https://pilarchurch.com/ or email: philm.cornerstone@gmail.com
You’re invited to come and meet the Easy Horse Care Centre rescued horses, ponies and donkeys. Call 652 021 980 or email rescue@easyhorsecare.net For more information visit our website www.easyhorsecare.net
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
FAMILY GROUPS For families and friends of problem drinkers. There are meetings in Torrevieja. Phone 634 349 961.
