Breathe Magazine by Andra Teodorescu

B R E AT H E

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF BREATHE A philosophy of good living

COOL N VINTAGE Authentic 4x4 in style

ARCHIDOM

Architects that create lifestyle experiences

REFORESTATION TO SIERRA NEVADA SKI

Knowing how to give and take is an art

HOW JESSE MEESTER BECAME A BRAND

Meet the young entrepreneur with 1.5 million followers

BREATHE WINTER 2023/24

A lifestyle philosophy I’d like to welcome you to the inaugural edition of Breathe, a publication that reflects the spirit and philosophy from which our group of venues was founded and has grown. The magazine allows us to express and communicate this lifestyle philosophy, which is centred on healthy living and fine dining, quality of life, exploring the art of knowing how to enjoy living to the full while also giving back, nurturing our living environment and generally being happy people. Many of our customers and friends share this approach to life, which is what draws them to the ambience, food and overall experience at Breathe, Ground, Air and Soul. Places where friends and likeminded people meet, relax, work and enjoy the Marbella lifestyle. The same applies to the magazine, which brings this philosophy together in articles and features that focus on shared interests and experiences both locally and abroad. They include health, wellbeing, fine dining, travel, beautiful things and caring for each other and the environment – all with the distinct touch of Breathe, where we focus very strongly on a sense of community and what we as individuals can achieve on a personal and collective level. So I invite you to page through, visit our website and hit some of those QR codes – we think you’ll find them interesting. Best wishes,

Aguilene Benicio

Feel the glow this winter

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WORLD-CLASS DINING EXPERIENCES

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INDEX 9 12 20 24 32 34 36 38 40 44 48 53 60 62 68 72 78 82 86 92 94 96 102 106 112

A different philosophy Healthy food and wellbeing - a philosophy of life The day begins at Ground Ground coffee NAC Sports & Social Club Soul - Redefining the sports club experience Soul - Work and meet Soul - Eat, Play and Connect Archidom studio - creating a feeling Sofie Rosengren - the greatest wealth is your health Breathe Gift Trees Sources of Inspiration Jesse Meester - the making of a brand Take a different route CoolnVintage - artistry in motion Café Racer Dreams - cool bikes made to measure Breathe - dining and more Bacardi - the Murcielago flies again Life at the top - Air sky bar The first Patrón bar in Spain Be Beautiful! Sierra Nevada - Alps of the Costa del sol Step into the night Discover the other Málaga Marbella gets smart

Publisher Brand Director Production Manager Layout and Design Cover Photo Depósito Legal

Breathe S.L. Lucien Capdevielle Andra Teodorescu Jarno Klopstra Maksym Baranov MA-1800-2023

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A different philosophy Breathe has been different from the beginning, offering fine dining in a luxurious environment, but with a distinct philosophy. There are other luxurious restaurants in Marbella, but you won’t find another like Breathe. Different from the outset, it is the product of a very clear philosophy that goes beyond fine dining alone. Yes, offering a wonderful gastronomic experience is central to the concept, but there’s more to it than that, as Breathe is the expression of a philosophy that wishes to show that business in the 21st century can also be beneficial to health and the environment.

Sustainable from the start Breathe was therefore designed to be sustainable from the start, and apart from responsible sourcing this extends to the very design and engineering of the building that was purpose-built five years ago. “We worked hard to make the venue as efficient as possible both from an operational and an energy-saving point of view,” says Tom. This involves special attention to natural airflow throughout the restaurants and the private garage, as well as creating green zones. Vertical gardens, fountains and terraces with over 8000 plants and trees create this sense of an oasis at the intersection of Nueva Andalucía and Puerto Banús, but the building also makes use of smart lighting systems and a heat-exchange pump that harnesses the natural energy of the earth for heating and cooling. “It means we use clean, renewable energy while also providing reverse osmosis purified and mineralised water in our branded refillable containers that does away with the need for the water bottles that contribute so much to pollution Moreover, the byproduct water produced in this process is captured along with rainwater in a 12.000 litre deposit and used to irrigate the gardens.” These and other measures have set Breathe apart from the outset, and they show the way forward for businesses in the area. “We make alliances with similarly minded companies so that we can broaden the positive impact,” says Aguilene, who has also initiated the Breathe GiftTrees project as part of which

the group donates €1,49 from every diner’s bill through Cabron Free Dining to the planting of trees in the Usambara Mountains of northern Tanzania. “Guests can also donate on the spot or via the Gift Trees website, and together we have so far planted almost 60.000 trees, which just goes to show what can be achieved when we work together as a community.”

Healthy food and wellbeing – a philosophy of life The decision to lead a healthy life and look after mind and body involves a life philosophy that includes not only exercise but also how you look at food. Good alimentation is at the heart of staying fit and feeling good – physically and emotionally – and it involves more than simply avoiding or indulging less in those things that are potentially harmful, such as sugar, too much salt, too much fat, processed foods, too much alcohol and in many cases lactose, gluten and other elements we are increasingly becoming allergic to. Above all, this way of life centres upon fruit, vegetables, less but better quality and ethically produced meat and seafood, as well as an overall focus on the kind of state of mind that busts stress and anxiety.

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How to eat healthily The first step is to reduce your intake of sweets, processed sausages, greasy take-away food and yes, if you can also cook with less salt and drink a little less alcohol, that will help too. Meat is heavy to digest, especially beef, and lactose is also a strain on your stomach, with the potential for long-term damage and also a lack of energy and vitality. Try a wok stir fry dish of vegetables, onions, garlic and a little meat, well-seasoned with spices such as turmeric and ginger, and just see how you feel after a while – lighter, fitter and happier, with fewer mood swings. Take it a big step further by sourcing organic, naturally grown fruit and veg, ecological and ethically produced meat, and take your time to enjoy a meal. It is all rooted in the km-zero and Slow Food movements and philosophies of good living. It is also good to cook more proper meals at home, it really doesn’t take so long to do, and when you do eat out, make sure you choose restaurants that offer gorgeous flavours and creative gastronomy with quality, freshly sourced ingredients. Breathe is known for exactly this in the Marbella area, as fresh, healthy dining in balance with nature and wellbeing is at the very heart of our thinking, and the very reason this restaurant was founded.

PENTHOUSE IN CONDADO DE SIERRA BLANCA State of Art Penthouse in Condado de Sierra Blanca, This is a very bright and sunny property, fully renovated and decorated by Marta del Ganso the renowned Interior Designer of Breathe Marbella. Featuring 3 bedrooms (with possibility of a 4th bedroom or a gym area), 2+1 bathrooms with underfloor heating, on 156 m2 built, and 100m2 of terraces with breathtaking sea views. The Stunning property also offers a fireplace, jacuzzi, outdoor shower, 2 communal pools, and lush gardens in outstanding green and quiet surroundings, within gated comunity, 24/7 security, garage for 2 cars and large storage room. Luxurious living only 3 minutes driving from Marbella Center!

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THE BEST COFFEE IN TOWN

The day begins at Ground 06:00 GROUND opens, not for the public (yet), but the bakery begins its daily work of producing delicious bread and pastries from organic and artisan wheat varieties. This is not a bakery as we’ve become accustomed to in recent decades, but a real one, the way they used to be. The team of bakers kneads the dough to produce a variety of delicious breads and pastries to help kick start the day in the right way, as always mindful of dietary requirements. By eight, the coffee begins to percolate, tables are ready and the baskets of bread spread their rich morning smell. At 08:30 the doors open and early morning guests start arriving, hungrily ordering their fix of freshly brewed coffee and freshly baked croissants and other mouthwatering sweet and savoury snacks. The healthy crowd opts for smoothies and muesli yoghurt dishes with freshly peeled fruit, and the gentle morning mingling is the ideal way to get the day going. By 10:00 the school runners, get-to-workers and gottagymmers are on their way, replaced by the more eazy pace of those on a leisurely visit to the coast, with laptop execs and others meeting for a cup of amazing coffee. The fragrance of bread and coffee is soft comfort in the air, mixed with the tinkling of cups and the morning soundtrack created by our very own DJ, and by lunchtime it gives way to light meals enjoyed on the sunny terrace.

Post-lunch, things wind down for a little, as GROUND readies itself for the late afternoon rush of mums, dads, businesspeople and laptop nomads, all keen to enjoy a coffee and snack in that wonderfully welcoming atmosphere, before GROUND closes and gives way to BREATHE™ upstairs. As the doors shut, the bakery, dining area and coffee bar are thoroughly cleaned and prepped for the following day, so GROUND winds down as BREATHE™ comes to life. It’s the natural cycle in the life of a gastronomic hub.

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Ground · Coffee Yes, coffee beans are granulated into a wonderfully fragrant powder to make that steaming cup, but while they share the process not all coffees are the same. By no means. Early mornings are a hive of activity at Ground, which fills with the smell of freshly baked artisan bread being brought out of the bakery. The morning atmosphere is created by one other iconic fragrance – that of roasted coffee beans and the swish of the coffee machine preparing your start-of-the-day beverage. Well, yours and many others, as this is one of the most popular spots in the greater Marbella area for a morning coffee and/ or breakfast. The New York style bakery and café is managed by Miss Lane Rodrigues, who as a Brazilian national is not only passionate about coffee but also knows a thing or two about it. Not only that, but she is meticulous too, and that’s a vital ingredient in the daily ritual of coffeemaking. “Don’t like it when instead of a nice creamy cup of coffee you are served one whose sharp, burnt taste is not only not what you wanted but also in danger of giving you a headache? It won’t happen at Ground.” Miss is confident of this not only because Breathe sources only the best organic ingredients as part of its ecologically, socially and health-focused philosophy, but also because of how she and her team prepare the steamy drink. “The sharp, burnt taste comes from old coffee granules being mixed in with your fresh ones, and this happens when the coffeemaker is not properly cleaned in between the serving of drinks, so we make sure it is spotless after every single cup we make.”

Organic and gorgeous This combination of prime produce and loving preparation results in what many of Ground’s regulars call ‘the best coffee in town’ – and there are many. “Especially in the winter, big queues form at the bar as people come for their favourite morning brew, with or without a pastry or other early bite.” Miss and her team of baristas know most by name and how they like their coffee, and of course they get it that way, complete with a pretty little cream flower design. The milk used to complement the Brazilian Arabica coffee from the Meke toasters in Ibiza is similarly not the cheapest but the best option, and its full-bodied creaminess adds the finishing touch to a gorgeous cup of ‘café con leche’. “We source this coffee because it is grown organically on sustainably cultivated plantations in Brazil, where natural resources are used in a sensible way and workers treated well,” says Miss. “The beans are not picked when green and then roasted, which creates the cracked bean look, but harvested when they are just ready and are not burnt during the roasting process. If you ask to see them, you’ll notice that our beans are perfectly formed, without the usual cracks, and you’ll also notice the difference in the taste, which is softer, naturally sweeter and less acidic, with a hint of chocolate and dried fruits.” Above all, it is the dedication with which Miss and her team prepare your cup of coffee – adding good vibes to one of the most cherished daily rituals and setting you up for a good day.

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30 EXCLUSIVE LIFE MAGAZINE

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Eat · Play · Connect

NAC Sports & Social Club NAC Sports & Social Club The racquet club in Nueva Alcántara, San Pedro, was already one of the best on the Costa del Sol when it opened 20 years ago, but newly transformed as the NAC Sports & Social Club it stands out – redefining the sports club experience and taking it to the heights of a luxury resort hotel. The location near the beach sets the tone as you enter the club, passing by the elegant reception and his and her changing rooms to the state-of-the-art gymnasium and spa, or on to one of the 16 paddle and tennis courts that make this a prime example of what a 21st century sports facility should look like. Inside it looks and feels like a resort, outside a professional sports facility, complete with championship facilities and coaches. But there is another reason why the NAC Sports & Social Club stands out, and it is the beating heart of the entire complex: SOUL.

SOUL – redefining the sports club experience More than just a sports facility, this new-generation club is also a social hub where people gather after a game or workout, come to socialise, feel the fresh air as they work a little, enjoy a meal or just meet up to soak in the evening atmosphere and watch the sun set. For all of this, SOUL is the venue that offers a new after-sports experience that centres upon coming together in a special ambience against a background of beautifully fresh, delicious and healthy food and drinks. It’s Marbella at its most enjoyable, by the creators of BREATHE and GROUND. SOUL is becoming a favoured morning venue, the perfect place to work out, play some sport, grab a shower in the beautiful facilities and get the day going in the best possible way – with a breakfast that is delicious but also healthy. Think fresh juices, iced water with herbs and fruit, yoghurt and cereal-based breakfasts (lactose and gluten-free), as well as beautifully crafted poached egg, avocado and salmon dishes. The morning menu balances taste with well-being as you enjoy that peaceful but invigorating atmosphere and know that this is the best morning venue in town.

Work and Meet From a fresh start to the day, SOUL traces the sun’s arc as it welcomes remote workers, lunchtime gatherers and lazy afternooners through to the evening and balmy nights, accompanying you all the way through with the soulful dishes, drinks and atmospheric soundtrack that adds SOUL to the Marbella experience – whether you’ve been exercising or are here to socialise, chill or work a little. Breathe in the mornings offers fresh, healthy food in an invigorating environment, evolving into a popular sports and remote working hub with an inspired healthbased lunch menu. The music sets the tone for a chilled and welcoming feeling that starts with the girls at the reception. It’s a great venue for a work meeting, a catchup with friends or post-tennis or paddle snack either inside or on the shaded terrace. Truly fresh, light and hearty dishes inspired by world travels and adapted to our climate and lifestyle, the kind of meal and setting that puts a smile on your face at the heart of the day.

Eat, Play and Connect As the day progresses, this superb venue with its open kitchen, central bar and attractive indoor and outdoor dining areas becomes one of the most enticing spots on the coast to relax, meet up and socialise, taking in the setting sun as you settle down to dinner with live entertainment. You can enjoy a full dining experience or meet up with friends at the bar, either way the lively atmosphere will grab you and make it a night you want to repeat. Live entertainment is also on the menu at SOUL, adding spice to a bar area that lights up in the evening as you watch the sun set, take in the final rays of the day and get ready to enjoy the night. SOUL is made for every part of the day, it’s that sunkissed eatery, bar and lounge experience Marbella was just made for, the ideal place to EAT, PLAY and CONNECT!

Archidom Studio – creating a feeling Architectural design, in the true sense, is not just about designing buildings but actually all about working with light and space to create environments that evoke special emotions.

Friends and business partners Alvaro Estuñiga and Chema Sobrado happen to be very good at what is really the essence of architecture – evoking the right kind of feeling in a wide range of diverse buildings. “We think of structures as a series of columns, walls, floors and roofs, but that’s really where the comparison between most ends,” says Alvaro. “A home has a completely different purpose to an office building, a commercial centre, a hotel or a leisure venue, and this is reflected not just in practical functionality but also in what each one looks and above all feels like.” Archidom specialises in all the above and has an impressive portfolio of projects across the range, but it has become internationally renowned for the ability to give substance to leisure spaces like few other architecture studios can. This uncanny flair for knowing just how to take a concept such as the Pacha resort in Estepona, Momento on the Golden Mile or Soul at the NAC Sports & Social Club in Nueva Alcántara, San Pedro, to new creative heights has placed this Marbellabased studio firmly on the international map. “We design intuitively, feeling as well as thinking our way through the creative process, as the project takes shape in our minds’ eye.”

Design that you see, feel and sense. Our philosophy. “We want to awaken all the senses of our clients, creating atmospheres that evoke emotions and result in new lifestyle experiences,” says Alvaro. “This takes a certain degree of out of the box thinking, as we try to get the most out of every project in terms of its potential to achieve the above while drawing from the natural and cultural surroundings to create something unique. Our philosophy is to facilitate the growth of a community together with our clients, connecting them to create a bond, a sense of belonging and wellbeing.” Good design is therefore not limited to functional efficiency and aesthetic appeal, but has a further function in that a truly valid building must respond to the needs of its users. “A project must fulfil budgets and deadlines, but also exceed expectations – that is the task we set ourselves with each one, along with a desire to achieve the highest degree of sustainability within 40

given parameters. We believe that architecture serves a social purpose that should rise above personal ones while fulfilling the latter too.” Archidom’s focus on the environment includes working with natural materials such as wood, mortar and stone in combination with the more urban/industrial concrete. “For us, architecture is a technical and spatial expression of a practical need that has a sensory function too, as especially leisure facilities must above all create a sense of wellbeing,” says Alvaro. It’s an approach that has garnered Archidom international kudos as well as a growing list of prime projects in Madrid, Ibiza, Barcelona, the Canary Islands, Portugal, Sweden, as well as beauty spots in Asia and Central America.

“We’re not overtly commercial in our way of thinking, yet also not ‘just arty’. Archidom blends realism and romanticism I think in good proportion, and the part we love the most is creating sensory experiences for the people who will be using the buildings and spaces we design.” Wow factor is a strong element in this, and it involves matching modern design trends and technologies with inherent Mediterranean and natural elements. “All the projects we work on must have soul and to achieve this should be connected to their natural and cultural setting.” “We like to take care of even the smallest details in all our projects to deliver a finished product where everything has been thought out and delivered to and beyond our clients’ expectations,” says Alvaro. “In this way we design the architecture in complete synergy with the Interior Design of our projects so that both come together in a single concept. The ability to deliver visual shape, functional form and sensory experience

in a way that makes a new venue stand out from the beginning is winning Archidom Studio key projects here and internationally. They range from villas along the Costa del Sol at prestigious addresses such as La Zagaleta, El Madroñal, Montemayor and Guadalmina to commercial projects, like a spectacular new beach club in Ibiza (the old Bora Bora at playa de Embossa), which is also to become the largest and most impressive of its kind on the island. Other key projects include the clubhouse for the complex that Cosentino is building in Almería and the new 1800m2 restaurant on Calle Velázquez in Madrid. “It’s rewarding to design an office or private home, but of course very special when you have the opportunity to create spaces where people come to enjoy the great moments in life. It’s a responsibility and an honour to be commissioned to do such projects, and we work very hard to get it right.”

Winning designs by Archidom Archidom represent a new spirit of creative architecture that blends classic fundamentals and modern technical knowhow with sensory designs that highlight ambience, wellbeing and quality of life.

Sofie Rosengren – The greatest wealth is your health One of the leading fitness trainers and Pilates instructors at the I/O gym within the NAC Sports & Social Club, Sofie is a happy, free spirit who looks at life from the sunny side and spreads her good vibes as well as her fitness skills.

Born in Málaga to Swedish parents, Sofie Mathilde Rosengren was four years old when her family moved back to Sweden. Though originally from the Gothenburg area, she lived in the village of Sigtuna north of Stockholm before eventually deciding to move back to these shores as an adult. Having started as an aerobics instructor at 17, she’s worked in fitness her whole life, adding to her skill set through courses and self-learning. Sofie’s also a health consultant and qualified masseuse, as well as a Reiki Master, and through her independent work with Stay Calm & Do Pilates trains groups as well as private oneto-one instruction on the beach and online. “At I/O I focus primarily on Pilates and fitness training, which is equally rewarding. For me, Pilates is the most intelligent way of exercising. Getting stronger from ‘inside out’ makes you feel that you have total control of both body and mind.” She especially likes the interaction with her clients and the atmosphere in the gym. “Not only is it a beautiful venue but even more importantly the ambience is friendly, open and energising.” And that’s the way Sofie likes it, believing very much in good energy and that it’s not so much what you do, but how you approach things in life.

Something for everyone Having never been that much into weights herself, she understands the hesitation of a lot of people to start working out but emphasises that also for men it’s not just about pumping heavy weights. “These days there is something for everyone within the range of fitness options, so it’s good to embrace new things and find the exercise that suits you. This year I’m going back to the beginning and will be starting new step-up and sliders classes. Basically, Sliders is a low-impact cardio training and step-up has its roots in the 1980s but is updated to today’s fitness scene and know-how.” When it comes to being healthy and feeling energetic, it doesn’t so much matter which form of exercise you choose, as long as you pick one that fits your build and temperament, that you enjoy and which helps to keep you young and fit. It’s all about creating the best possible lifestyle and enjoying it to the full.

WE MAKE IT HAPPEN!

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yachts, and gourmet dining. This glamorous destination offers a high-end lifestyle embraced by the sun-kissed Mediterranean shores, making it a haven for luxury seekers. One of Marbella’s most prestigious spots is Puerto Banús, a renowned marina that draws celebrities and the wealthy. Here, visitors can marvel at an array of luxury yachts while indulging in designer shopping and savoring exquisite waterfront dining. When the sun sets, Marbella’s nightlife comes alive with chic bars and exclusive nightclubs. The vibrant party scene caters to the sophisticated tastes of its cosmopolitan visitors, offering unforgettable evenings of entertainment and glamour. For golf enthusiasts, Marbella boasts a collection of worldclass golf courses set amidst stunning landscapes. These meticulously designed courses provide an unparalleled golfing experience, attracting players from around the globe. Marbella’s allure lies in its ability to combine unparalleled luxury with a wide range of leisure activities. Whether it’s strolling along pristine beaches, enjoying a night out in its vibrant social scene, or teeing off at a top-notch golf course, Marbella promises a lifestyle of indulgence and refinement.

BREATHE GIFT TREES From the energy-saving design and landscaping of its venue to the way the restaurant sources supplies, Breathe follows a philosophy that is uniquely focused upon sustainability. Breathe GiftTrees takes this commitment beyond the establishment itself.

The building that was purpose-built to house this landmark restaurant, bakery and rooftop bar showcases the latest in energy-saving design and technology. It is an approach that runs through everything at Breathe, whose owners are intent on showing that good business can also be kind to nature and people alike. For this reason, the dishes are prepared with quality ingredients carefully sourced from an environmental and health perspective, while Breathe makes no use of singleuse plastic and where at all possible has replaced the material with natural, biodegradable ones. “We aim to make eating here fun, delicious and also healthy,” says Aguilene Benicio, who has taken this desire to have a positive impact to beyond Marbella – in fact, to the mountains of northern Tanzania. “I have always been passionate about nature, as I think we take so much out and give nothing back. We’ve long since broken the cycle of sustainability, the balance that allows nature to heal itself, so it’s important for our own safety and well-being to start nurturing our environment again.”

Breathe Gift Trees A chance meeting with Marvin Baker at the restaurant has led to the creation of the Breathe GiftTrees initiative. British-based Marvin is the CEO of an organisation that has been planting trees in areas of the world where nature has become decimated and local communities increasingly vulnerable. Partnered since 2009 with the United Nations Environmental Programme, he and his team have been the driving force behind the planting of millions of trees in 14 countries around the world. “We’re hoping to reach one billion by 2030,” says the man who founded the ‘Carbon-zero Dining’ concept. “Our project revolves around restoring natural environments and reducing carbon in the air, but it is also designed to help local rural communities and give them the means with which they can lift themselves out of poverty. What we’re working hard to do is to break the negative cycle and turn it around.” The trees planted are carefully chosen, so that the forests created have the optimal positive impact when it comes to cleaning carbon from the atmosphere. Currently, the organisation’s main efforts are focused upon the Usambara Mountains in Northern Tanzania, where a broad range of trees and plant species are selected to create a viable, selfsustaining ecosystem. “We use the Moringa ‘miracle’ tree to extract carbon, raise the water table and restore the soil’s nutrients, create a live flora fence to keep cattle out, and others that provide a variety of crops for local communities as well as a natural insecticide that draws bugs away from the productive plants.” This apart from the local jobs created in the nurseries and the planting operations on site.

Community action For some time now, Breathe has been donating €1,49 and planting a tree every time you dine at the restaurant, but it also has a website platform on which you can very easily manage the process yourself and plant anything from one to as many trees as you like. In fact, you can create an entire section of forest in your own name and view the result online. In this way, the ‘Breathe Forest’ has grown to beyond 50.000 trees, but there is more that can be done, and we can achieve it together… Aguilene, Marvin and the team at Breathe believe in community action. Why wait for governments and institutions rather than take direct action ourselves, wherever we can? GiftTrees forms part of this way of thinking, and it is creating results at a grassroots level in Marbella. So, join in this local initiative to make a difference every time you dine at Breathe or have breakfast or lunch at Ground – or go to the website and select how many trees you would like to have planted in your name. From €1,49 per tree!

GiftTrees

We have planted over 58.000 trees Scan here to plant more!

Sources of inspiration We hear about politicians, businesspeople and others that leave a trail of destruction in their wake, but what about those that do the opposite? Fortunately, there are plenty of examples that inspire.

Since we tend to focus on the Bad and the Ugly, sometimes it’s also useful to zoom in on the Good. If you look for it, there are plenty of inspiring people out there in many different fields, ranging from business and sport to politics and the environment. We’ve picked out a few that we think stand out for a variety of reasons.

Heart for the planet 1976 was a good year for the founding of ethical companies, as it’s when Olivier Baussan founded L’Occitane en Provence and Anita Roddick created The Body Shop. In a sector dominated by big pharmaceutical concerns, these two plotted a different course, actively avoiding animal testing in the development of their beauty care and cosmetic product ranges, as well as sourcing and producing in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. One example of this is how they buy ingredients directly from farmers in Africa rather than through middlemen, while focusing specifically on empowering women in poor communities. Over the years, both companies built up a reputation for successful business with a strong ecological and ethical nature that set them apart from many others and created a loyal following. A similar ethos inspired Ethan Brown to establish Beyond Meat, a company dedicated to producing meat products that look and taste like the real thing but are made from plant-based ingredients. They did this for a variety of reasons, including promoting health, fighting animal cruelty and combating global warming, and it paid off, as their business was listed on the stock exchange ten years after its founding. It goes to shows that ethical business is very compatible with financial success, and in doing so provides an inspiration for us all.

Getting the product right – Steve Jobs The co-founder of Apple needs little introduction. For successive generations, he was the guy that filled the grown-up Christmas stocking with a list of exciting new gadgets. From the very first Apple I microcomputer he famously developed in his garage in 1977 with cofounder Steve Wozniak, to the Macintosh of 1984 and the long list of other iconic machines conceived by them, Jobs gained fame and fortune in the rapidly emerging world of computer technology. He is perhaps the ultimate Silicon Valley star, but it is in the mature stage of his career that he truly stood out, consciously and bravely moving away from the common trend of producing cumbersome PCs as cheaply as possible and instead focusing on excellence of design and engineering. It was a brave move that went straight against the common practice of big business at the time, but Jobs persevered and drove his legions of engineers absolutely mad while searching for perfection. He found it in the groundbreaking iMac 3 of the late nineties, the first of a series of landmark personal computers that together with the now famous iPhone formed the basis of Apple’s meteoric rise as one of the most successful and valuable companies on the planet. In a world driven by economies of scale and quality compromises, Steve Jobs reintroduced the love of the product – sensing that people would pay more for better.

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The visionary – Elon Musk Elon Musk shares the product-driven bravery of Steve Jobs or James Dyson – born out of dedication to make things better – but he takes it a dimension further. Where the others mostly limited themselves to their fields, Musk seems to take a broader view that extends beyond his companies, products and corporate aspirations. In fact, he grows bored of his businesses rather quickly, and in many ways sees them as a means to achieving greater goals. For a tech genius and corporate billionaire, the SouthAfrican born entrepreneur is surprisingly interested in the bigger picture. Having made his huge fortune founding or co-founding the likes of PayPal, Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, OpenAI and the Boring Company, Musk is pushing forward technology, space exploration and environmental and infrastructure solutions while also warning the public about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. Unlike many of his colleagues, he ventures outside of the corporate bubble and envisages a world that is cleaner, more efficient and where quality of life is better for everyone. He is also outspoken on social issues, having recently taken over and rebranded Twitter to X in what he describes as ‘a move away from tech-supported, government-imposed social media monitoring and censorship’. It seems we haven’t seen the last of Elon Musk.

NEW EXCLUSIVE TURNKEY PROJECT VILLA IN PRIME LOCATION Exclusive turnkey luxury villa project in Artola Alta, Marbella, designed by a renowned architect. With its prime location first-line golf course and nestled amidst tall, majestic pine trees, the villa provides a private and secluded oasis.

This exceptional villa offers a seamless and hassle-free experience, as it is delivered fully finished and ready to move in. From exquisite interiors to meticulously landscaped gardens, every detail has been taken care of. This villa features a private garage for 2 cars, a refreshing private pool, and beautifully designed living spaces. Located in an excellent area 10 minutes from Marbella´s centre, near golf courses, and pristine beaches, this turnkey project offers the epitome of luxury living in one of the most sought-after locations in Marbella.

Asking price: 2.550.000 €

Jesse Meester – the making of a brand meesterestate.com For most people, life is something that happens to you, a series of events that you follow instinctively, and which eventually become your everyday reality, but there are those who are all too aware that it’s a short journey that should be lived to the fullest. These are the people who create their own destiny.

Jesse Meester started his journey after graduation in the military thinking “this was his purpose”, but it was towards the end of the second year that he ‘saw the light’. “I suddenly didn’t want to belong to such a hierarchical structure anymore when I realised that there is more to life than fitting into a system like a cog in the wheel of a great machine. Don’t get me wrong, I believe in the greater good, but I think that for myself at least fulfilment didn’t lie in working for a big corporation or being told what to do by bosses.” And so, he began to purposely plot his own course and plan his own destiny. “Life takes you on its path like a log down a fast-moving river, but we can try to shape the way we live by taking active responsibility for certain outcomes.” He began to take acting classes and landed a role in a youth series called Spangas. Jesse realised that to truly immerse yourself in a role also requires an understanding of the psyche, so he enrolled in psychology, continuing his studies remotely when he moved from The Netherlands to the USA to take part in acting school, gigs, commercials and even reality TV shows that are huge in America. “In America, everything is on a bigger scale than Europe, so being on television enabled me to build up an online following that grew from a few hundred thousand to over a million today.” He became a leading influencer while still working on the series, and not long after graduating with a psychology degree started offering coaching classes based upon personal experience and insight, backed up with professional know-how. “I spent three years in New York building up my personal coaching business while also travelling the world and growing my following online.”

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A new chapter – Meester Estate Having grasped the value of personal branding, he shared his insights in online coaching through Meester PT, which won the Dutch Fitness Awards in 2018. “Professionally and personally, I was on a fantastic track, and one that I had chosen and mapped out.” For several years, Jesse travelled the world and showcased a luxury influencer lifestyle that many dream of, visiting 72 countries and doing so in style. “And then a new perspective came to me. I realised that there was a bigger purpose for me than just travel. I needed to help more people in different ways.” As he approached his thirties, he began to look at things differently and adjusted his goals accordingly. “I had worked hard and enjoyed a fantastic lifestyle, but now I wanted to add more meaning and put down some roots, so I looked for a place that offered the security and values of Europe combined with a fantastic climate and lifestyle, and of course it ended up being Marbella.” By this time Jesse had already become a real estate investor, doing up, selling and renting out properties. “You could say that I had a fair amount of international experience.” In addition to his coaching, media and business activities, this agile young entrepreneur also felt that when he did buy a property in Marbella the experience was not entirely to his liking. “I saw an opportunity to do things in a slightly different way, and have since established Meester Estates, which has grown into an expanding business now with a team of five.” Thanks to his powerful media presence, Meester Estates does not have to compete in the same crowded digital marketing environment as most agencies on the Costa del Sol, and it shows in the results already achieved. “It also means that we don’t have to push or sell, but focus on properties that sell themselves, as a home should. We do well because we are in a position to approach a property search from the buyer and investor’s perspective, always first asking ourselves if this is a home that we ourselves would buy.” Working in this way he has built up a strong international client base, as always following an independent and up to date way of doing things that translates to his personal life as well. “Our relationship is with our clients, not with the properties, and for this reason our purpose is very clearly focused on following their brief and matching the homes we find to their lifestyle, not the other way round. For me, a life well lived should be independent, comfortable and fulfilling both in the giving and the receiving.”

Take a different route For so long now we have associated travel with sea, sun, sightseeing, pampering and generally making a nuisance of ourselves that it’s hardly a wonder that tourists are not the most beloved of people around the world. This is why some are seeking to find modern-day travel inspiration along a different route – one that approaches the tourist experience from a novel perspective.

Where many have sought it in extreme luxury, out of the way locations or action-packed hair-raising exploits, this selection of travel experiences gets close to Mother Nature and minimises the traveller’s impact without compromising on comfort. What’s more, we look at how the tourist may actually make a contribution to the environment he or she visits, something that is becoming more and more popular among seasoned travellers. Indeed, both people with a strong sense of moral rectitude and those who’ve seen large parts of the world in first class and experienced much pampering, are now keen to turn their travel experience into something more meaningful than the rather voyeuristic ritual it has become in past decades.

Credits: Per Aquum

A window on the ocean Now we’re familiar with those luxurious minimalist resorts that appear to float on the crystalline waters of the Maldives or some Pacific island against a backdrop of white sands and tall palm trees. Per Aquum resorts take this concept a step further, merging resort and ocean into one amazing visual spectacle. Its retreats in the UAE and the Maldives offer a seductive integration of land and water in which the view from your hotel room is not of the sea but looks straight into it. Built on the edge of beach and ocean, Huvafen Fushi is a resort that allows you to luxuriate in immaculate style on the white sanded beach, seek shelter amid

Photo credit: Visit Scotland

tropical foliage or lounge on decks that merge with the sea – as long as you return to your room under the waterline. These luxurious cabin suites feature the elegance and style of a fine yacht or cruiser, yet with the unmistakable views of an underwater world that are normally associated with wetsuits, goggles, oxygen tanks and flippers. Not so here, where you can contemplate another world with drink in hand, like some suave Captain Nemo aboard a five-star Nautilus decked out with spa and fine dining restaurant. Websites and photo credits www.peraquum.com

A real floating palace What the finest ocean liners lack is privacy, while even the most fantastical yachts cannot compete with cruise ships when it comes to the scale of amenities. The ultimate, therefore, would be a private ship with the size and infrastructure of a liner, but such a thing remains a fantasy (for now). The nearest thing in existence today is MS The World, a beautifully sculpted cruise ship that started life as the World of Residensea and is now owned and operated by a residential community of no more than 300 ‘residents´. Fitted with everything you can desire; this floating palace has 250 staff providing a six-star bespoke service for on average of 100-200 owners and their guests. Instead of cabins or even suites the accommodation is made up of luxurious apartments of varying sizes that come complete with their own balconies and ocean-view jacuzzis. Add a small ‘hotel’ for visiting guests, a choice of fine dining restaurants and cafés, swimming pools, spa, lounges, hairdressers, cinema, library, business centre, museum, gentleman’s bar, sports facilities (including a driving range), pool decks, fitness centres and a stateof-the-art docking port for water sports, and it becomes clear that this is nothing short of a floating paradise where even adults can feel like a kid in a candy store. With automatic membership of the best yacht clubs, golf clubs and exclusive members clubs in most of the ports of call, it has everything to make you feel like royalty. www.aboardtheworld.com

Heading inland Combining rustic luxury with the beauty and impact of authentic wildernesses brings you close to nature without having to forsake comfort. The destinations are wide and varied, but include such remote paradises as Tulloch, in Scotland’s Highlands, where towering white peaks surrounded by heath and indented by lochs form the gateway to a fairytale world of castles, ruins and mossy solitude. The accommodation is in luxuriously equipped cottages where authentic local charm is elevated to a very comfortable home base from which to explore the surrounding national parks.

Photo credits: The World Residences at Sea

For experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life, this is holidaying seen from a completely different perspective.

WONDERFUL PENTHOUSE DUPLEX WITH FANTASTIC SEA VIEWS IN ALOHA ROYAL Wonderful PENTHOUSE DUPLEX with fantastic sea views and common areas in sought-after urbanization Aloha Royal located in the hills of the Golf Valley of Nueva Andalucia, Marbella. It has an excellent location in a quiet and beautiful setting close to all amenities and services, the famous Puerto Banus and the beaches. Surrounded by a variety of golf courses. Very nice private urbanization with communal pool and beautiful gardens. The property covers an area of 145 m2 and comprises of four bedrooms, three modern bathrooms, a bright and spacious living room with direct access to a wonderful terrace-porch, and a fully-equipped open plan kitchen.The bedrooms are

Asking price: 779.000 €

well-proportioned and offer built-in wardrobes. The property has been nicely renovated is south-facing, ensuring plenty of sunlight and warmth throughout the day. It features air conditioning, underfloor heating throughout the apartment and also a cosy fireplace. The enlarged front terrace is perfect for enjoying the stunning sea views and is ideal for outdoor dining. This property has 145 m2 distributed in 4 bedrooms, a bright living-dining room with direct access to a wonderful terrace-porch, three bathrooms, and modern fitted and equipped kitchen. It also includes garage and storage room.

Coolnvintage – artistry in motioN They hail from Portugal, but they love the purity of real cars such as Land Rovers. That’s why Coolnvintage preserve an artistic and engineering legacy when they restore beautiful cars with a knowing touch between classic and contemporary. “We love art, form, machinery and craftsmanship, and when we rebuild a classic car from scrap to gleaming beauty, we also focus on sustainability,” says Mazari Zoio, Sales Manager for Coolnvintage, certainly one of the most authentic automotive restoration specialists anywhere in the world. So much so that the atelier has already built up a global reputation for the quality of its work, particularly with regard to creating vintage Land Rovers that are simply exquisite. The level of artistry stems from a pure love of design and engineering coupled with an obsession with perfection and detail. “Every restoration project is a one-off journey that not only restores a vintage car but also captures its unique story.” This process has led to the Art Chassis Defender, whose chassis is hand-painted by artist Vasco Costa in tones inspired by the vibrancy of Lisbon. So highly rated is Coolnvintage’s end product that Land Rover invited them to showcase their models at the Coachella, California global launch of the new Land Rover Defender. www.coolnvintage.com

“The essence of our work is a nod back to a time when life and technology were simpler, but perhaps more durable,” says Mazari. These functional works of art reveal a design philosophy that embraces purity and authenticity while also incorporating selected modern touches that give the vehicles their unique blend of vintage and now. “A Coolnvintage Land Rover is about more than just car restoration, it is a work of art that appreciates in value with time, but much of the fun lies in the process, which becomes a very personal journey, at the end of which our customers become part of the Coolnvintage owners club family.” Not surprisingly, there is a waiting list for these unique projects that take 10-12 months to produce a fully bespoke vehicle in a selection of personal colours and detailing. The artistry that is part of the very fabric of this atelier extends beyond the automotive and is also visible in their photography, marketing, videography, art books and storytelling, “for we’re about a journey that should be enjoyed to the full.”

Cafe Racer Dreams – cool bikes made to measure If you like style, bikes and looking very cool then Cafe Racer Dreams is a name to take note of. Sure, the likes of Ducati, Triumph and Harley Davidson still produce fantastic motorbikes, but there is also a trend towards stylishly bespoke two-wheelers with more than a passing hint of nostalgia. Just as well-designed retro cars are proving popular, so many a bike connoisseur is demanding something a little more refined than the wave of unloved screamers that have been hitting the roads since the 1980s. The trend started with Wrenchmonkees, a Danish specialist workshop that began stripping down and remaking old seventies and eighties Hondas and BMWs. The result was something truly special, inspiring a new generation of bike owners and specialist makers alike.

One of the leaders in this segment now is Cafe Racer Dreams, CRD for short, a Spanish maker of oh so stylish bespoke motorbikes that are both retro and ever so trendy. Out goes the unnecessary, like wings, which are sacrificed on the altar of good taste and replaced with a simplified bike that allows you to see and appreciate the beauty of the actual components of such a vehicle – the frame, tank, seat, wheels and above all, the engine. Still manly, but also stylish, CRD takes a 1980 Honda CD750 and sheds all the kitsch to reveal its rather attractive essence. Add some stylish tonal touches, such as the black, matt gold and choc brown colour scheme, and you’re on to a beautiful racer with classic written all over it. It’s the kind of bike that makes its rider look good, both in leathers and an Italian suit – and it’s crafted by Cafe Racer Dreams in Spain. We think Steve McQueen would have approved. No, he’d have gone out and bought one! www.caferacerdreams.es

BRAND-NEW CONTEMPORARY STYLE VILLAS The unique villas from an international fashion house specializing in exceptionally crafted design, are offered for sale in Sierra Blanca, Marbella, one of the most exclusive areas of the Mediterranean region. The prestigious firm reaches the Golden Mile of Marbella for its first project in Spain. The new high-end gated development consists of 5 contemporary-style, beautiful and luminous houses with private gardens and infinity pools. They are so perfectly stylish, that it seems as though you’ve walked straight into a postcard or a photo from the ‘Best Exclusive Homes’ magazines. A postcard comes to life! Expect luxury, comforts, magnificent views and the vast amounts of light and space flowing through the stunning interiors thanks to the floor-toceiling windows.

Asking price: 8.300.000 €

Surrounded with pine groves, lush subtropical greenery and similar high-end properties of the super prestigious Sierra Blanca, the spectacular 3-level house of 1.007 m² sits on a large and picturesque 2.131-m² plot. It is facing south and enjoys breath-taking sea and mountain views. The property features a bright open plan living room with a fireplace and direct access to the terraces and infinity pool. A fully fitted sleek open kitchen with an island / bar and a dining area also connects to the outdoor area. There are 4 ample bedroom suits with 4 extraordinary bathrooms, a sauna, storage, utility and laundry areas, and a garage for 5 cars of your collection.

WORLD-CLASS DINING EXPERIENCES

RISE TO THE OCCASION

Breathe, dining and more There are restaurants and then there are restaurants. Some are eateries, while others offer a complete experience that is about all the ingredients of a good night out: great food, ambience and entertainment. It’s the way we like it in Marbella. Just as the Ground café begins to wind up for the day, that’s when Breathe comes to life as part of a full-circle gastronomic offering that begins with freshly baked bread and ground coffee in the morning, continues through lunch into a glittering evening of fine dining, socialising and live entertainment before reaching its culmination with late-night cocktails and party atmosphere at Air. Around four pm every day, unseen by guests, the elegant restaurant on the middle floor becomes a hive of action, as the kitchen, waiting and cleaning staff methodically begin preparations for dinner service. Breathe is a very special venue, incorporating a beautifully styled interior restaurant, evocative bar area and an atmospheric terrace and garden area where over 8000 plants and trees create a private oasis within the heart of Marbella.

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WORLD-CLASS DINING EXPERIENCES

Everything is just so by the time guests begin to arrive just after six pm, some enjoying a drink at the bar before taking a table inside or out, while others do it the other way round. The atmosphere grows and by ten o’clock there is a swell of liveliness with both restaurant and bar service operating at full speed. In keeping with the company philosophy, this is fine dining with a focus on health, fresh ingredients and responsible farming – and a big focus on atmosphere and service. The bar and terrace are popular meeting points where people like to gather and socialise before and after dinner, or just to pop in and have a drink. Many evenings feature live music - Breathe is that kind of place – the venue for a great night out complete with themed events, and in the long summer months the rooftop cocktail bar Air is the ultimate spot to bring a fine day to a perfect close, against a backdrop of fantastic views of Marbella and its shoreline. You may also want to watch the sunset from this spot, but best to reserve ahead of time.

Bacardi – the murcielago flies again The Bacardi range of rums belongs to one of the most emblematic brands on the planet. It’s icon, the ‘murcielago’, or bat, is an icon in its own right, but what do we really know about the world of Bacardi?

To start with, Bacardi was founded in Cuba in 1862, which makes it Cuban. But, since the Communist revolution of 1959 it has been operated outside of the island, with sales in over 170 countries worldwide. Bacardi was founded by one Facundo Bacardí Massó, who had immigrated to Cuba from Spain and become a wine merchant before finding a way to perfect rum production and turn it from an unsophisticated local drink into the international flavour success that is Bacardi. Today, the company remains in family hands, run by what is now the seventh generation of directors and employing over 8000 people around the globe. The success of Bacardi provided the basis for a drinks empire that includes the likes of Grey Goose vodka, Dewars whisky, Bombay Sapphire gin, Martini vermouth and Patrón tequila. The famous ‘murcielago’ logo, by the way, is inspired by the fact that bats lived in the rafters of the original Bacardi distillery in Santiago de Cuba.

The original clear rum Before Facundo Bacardí made it into one of the world’s most sophisticated alcoholic beverages, rum was a rather rough localised drink that lacked the smoothness to appeal to an international market. He finally cracked it and captured a global market by adding a strain of yeast derived from sugarcane that gives the brand its unique flavour. He also pioneered charcoal rum filtration, which together with the patented yeast producing technique formed the foundation for what is now one of the world’s great drinks empires. Bacardi now comes in many forms, ranging from the original classic to Bacardi Spiced Rum, Bacardi Mojito, Bacardi Lemon, the Breezers variety, and more. It’s popular in its own right and also forms the basis for many of the most fashionable cocktails, making this one of the most important spirits companies globally, as well as one of the most valuable privately owned corporations. For people around the world, it’s all about a way of life that spells relaxation, socialising and a refined taste exploration.

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LIFE AT THE TOP - AIR SKY BAR If you want the sophistication of a restaurant, the liveliness of a bar and the party atmosphere of a nightclub, where do you go? Well, to the top – Air Sky Bar at Breathe. A sky bar is a very special venue, not least because it is rarely seen and therefore seldom enjoyed. As a result, there is a sense of excitement as you make your way to the top, reaching a sophisticated outdoor bar and nightclub with private tables and booths from which you can make the most of Marbella’s summer climate while taking in the town and its surroundings from a rather privileged position. While most rooftop bars are situated in built-up areas with limited views, Air offers an open window to a whole section of Marbella and Puerto Banús, including the spectacular backdrop of La Concha Mountain. This is the ambience that surrounds you at the bar, dance floor, tables and booths, making this the perfect spot to come after work and watch the sun set as you enjoy a refreshing drink or cocktail. Own the night As night sets in, Air becomes one the most sophisticated nightlife spots in town, a gathering of beautiful people in a spectacular venue that features an open air bar, nightclub, lounge and restaurant offering chef-made sushi and snacks. Tables and booths are booked in advance, and by ten a team of resident and visiting DJs begin to build up the pace and set the tone for the party that follows. There are few nightlife spots as appealing as this.

Themed parties and events Every year, the summer season officially kicks off with a bang at the opening party. In 2023, it was UNDER THE STARS on 20 May, a glamorous event that was a blend of live entertainment, dance, DJs, food, cocktails and partying under the stars. Air hosts a major party of this kind every month throughout the summer, continuing in June with the stylish hedonism of FALLEN ANGELS, in July the Bond-inspired fun of SKYFALL, and in August the annual highlight of BURNING MAN.

Inspired by the famous festival held in California every year, BURNING MAN is a true expression of summer apex, and an event that remains in the memory long after. Another annual highlight is September’s OVER THE MOON party, one of the most glamorous of all the ones hosted at Air until the summer season ends on a high on 7th October, bringing to conclusion another fantastic season of music, dance, fashion, beauty and nightlife lived to its best. See you next year at AIR!

The first Patrón bar in Spain The very first bar dedicated to Patrón Tequila recently opened at Breathe in Marbella – an ode to the art and enjoyment of premium tequila. The newly inaugurated Patrón Tequila Bar at Breathe offers a premium spirit and cocktail experience within the overall wine and bar offering of the restaurant. We’ve heard of Gin and Vodka bars before, but with this ode to the famous Mexican spirit, Breathe and Marbella become the first to create a bar whose mission it is to offer the full-bodied experience of one of the finest tequilas available. Just to be sure, if your idea of this drink is based upon the kind of tequilas passed around at college student bashes you’re in for a surprise. A pleasant one, as tequilas can range from pretty basic to wonderfully sophisticated, based upon the quality of ingredients and production. This is true of Patrón, one of the finest tequilas made in Mexico, so share the exciting spirit and cocktail sensation at Breathe’s new Patron Tequila Bar.

Be Beautiful! In a resort town as fashionable and rich in beautiful homes as this, there is no other way to be.

If you stroll through the atmospheric old quarter of Marbella you’ll know when you’ve come across Be Beautiful Marbella. This décor boutique owned by Bernard Biscontini Hasse will put a smile on your face and engage the senses the minute you spot it. Be Beautiful Marbella is a sprinkling of happiness that comes in the form of evocative tones, textures, materials and designs – a world of decorative explorations that expand into untold possibilities in the hands of this skilled designer. But Bernard is not just any designer, he does much more than simply piece together decorative items. “I do this too, but in reality my approach is rather broader and more personal than this,” says the affable world citizen who has lived and worked in places as diverse as Düsseldorf, Moscow, New York, Istanbul and Marbella, which he now calls home. “Travel and experiencing diverse cultures and climates opens your eyes to new possibilities and inspires the senses, so it naturally unlocks creativity.” He loves the golden sunny light and deep blue skies of Marbella, and the way they create a beautiful backdrop for the deep blue of the sea and the green of the pine forests and golf courses that also mark much of our views. “Why would I be interested in this? Well, because while I do sell individual decorative items and dress interior spaces, much of my work involves larger projects that include the styling or even redesigning of entire homes and commercial premises.”

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Hilton and the Waldorf Astoria Bernard was already an established interior stylist when he further sharpened his skills at the Waldorf Astoria in New York and the Hilton hotel group’s Caribbean operations. This was followed by the creation of his own brand of interior design studio and boutique outlets such as the one in Marbella. “People ask me if I have a style, but I don’t,” says the man who instead prefers to create living spaces that reflect your style. “I do have a very clear approach and philosophy, and fortunately I am capable of creating impactful interiors and aesthetic environments with a wide range of tools and in a variety of styles. In this way I am able to adapt to different locations, settings, homes and most importantly, clients.” He sees his task not so much as decoration but as the challenge of creating each client’s ultimate home environment – the place that makes them feel good. “Your home is your base, your private space, so it should be happiness incarnate with style and good taste, and while this can be achieved in many different ways that reflect the style and preferred way of life of each person, I do believe that colour is an important element.” He laments the fact that a lot of interior design allows itself to become a slave to prevailing trends, resulting in then all-white, then all-beige and then all-black interiors, whatever the trend dictates. “This leaves little space for true creativity on the side of the interior designer, much less for real expression on the part of the client, so I take a lot of time and effort to create homes and interiors that reflect my clients and are as unique as they are.” This involves good conversations with the various members of the family to really understand their preferences, lifestyle and practical needs, as all ‘good design follows function’.

Made for you The result is an oeuvre of projects that are not only beautiful but also highly varied and adapted to their setting. “I try to resist some clients’ temptation to simply replicate the homes and interiors they have abroad. Marbella is a special place with its own views, light and lifestyle, and this should not only be reflected but also celebrated in your property here. Your Marbella home should be everything it can be, never a compromise, as this sets the tone for enjoying life here to the utmost.” And if this requires the refurbishment or reconstruction of the property in question in order to produce something truly outstanding, then Bernard has the experience and attention to detail to get it right! “Experience gives you the know-how to be like the conductor of an orchestra, someone who sets the tone and makes sure all the elements come together to create something beautiful.”

Sierra Nevada – Alps of the Costa del Sol To the Americans, the Sierra Nevada is a mountain range in California, but for us it is the Alps-come-to-Marbella – complete with snowy peaks, ski resorts, kilometres of pistes, luxury hotels and après ski. And it’s all just over two hours from the beaches of the Costa del Sol. The mighty Sierra Nevada mountain range is what rises up behind Granada. Those snowy ranges can also be seen glistening in the sun from our coastline, and indeed, it’s under two hours by car from Málaga to the alpine wilderness of this vast range. For thousands of winter sports enthusiasts – the Sierra Nevada is the Alps come to southern Spain. In fact, the ski station at the village of Pradollano is the most southerly resort of its kind in Europe, known for an exceptionally long season. This southern latitude, combined with high altitude, produces conditions that can make a November to May season possible, and for this reason the Sierra Nevada is popular not only with ski and snowboarding fans, but also with organisers of international competitions, such as the 1996 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships, the 2015 Winter Universiade and the 2017 FIS Freestyle Ski and Snowboarding World Championships.

Sierra Nevada Ski Station Located on the slopes of the Veleta Mountain are 115 kilometres of alpine ski runs that flow down to the level of the main ski station in Pradollano. The runs are classified green (18km), blue (40km), red (50km) and black (9km), according to the degree of difficulty, with green ideal for beginners and black best left to the pros. Two cable cars, 17 chairlifts and two T-bar lifts, as well as two magic carpets and one ski tow take enthusiasts to the top of the pistes, with a mid-station at Borreguiles, which has a collection of restaurants, cafés, shops and a ski school. But the real resort is Pradollano, which bustles with a surprising degree of alpine charm. In fact, with its hotels, apartments, restaurants, bars, designer shops and panoramic terraces surrounded by snowy peaks, it very much feels like the Alps too.

Photo credits: Maribel

Super resort experience Perhaps the most iconic and luxurious of all is the renowned El Lodge hotel, the Sierra Nevada sibling of Marbella’s Marbella Club hotel celebrating its 10th season. It allows you to enjoy richly cosy and ambient alpine luxury in what feels like a six-star chalet lodge in-between the snowy mountains. Expect champagne bubbles and warm bubbles as you toast the spectacular view from your terrace jacuzzi. The rooftop and penthouse suites take the cake in terms of understated warmth, but El Lodge is also famous for its restaurant, The Grill, as well as a bar and panoramic terrace. Its new sister hotel in the Sierra Nevada is Maribel, a spectacular new luxury destination situated at the foot of the slope, with direct access to the Maribel and Águila runs. Its ambience and spa remind one of the Norwegian mountains, while the ski-in/ski-out bar and terrace offer après ski with style. The fine dining restaurant, meanwhile, has a distinctly alpine flavour, with Maribel adding lustre to the popular ski resort. www.ellodge.com www.maribels.com

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Photo credit: El Lodge

photo credit: Maribel

Step into the night

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NIGHT TRAVEL Daytime isn’t the only time to explore the world around you. There are experiences made to be enjoyed by candlelight that are even more amazing.

People have a tendency to roam by day and saunter by night, by which I mean that they tend to inhabit a smaller circle in the evenings. It’s only natural, as the day is for sports, culture, sun worshipping and exploration, while the night is designed for dining and partying. This is all very true, but there are some exceptions to the rule, always. In fact, at least two that really stand out. One of these involves a trip to Granada, a beautiful historic city two hours from Marbella. This student city with the rich past and the imposing monuments is home to one of the classic wonders of the world – the Alhambra. It is a citadel (fortress palace) standing atop a prominent hill that can be seen from every corner of the former capital of Moorish Andalucía. Dazzling by day, when its palace complex, courtyards and gardens draw visitors from around the world, it turns into a fairytale at night. This is when the lights come on, shining their beam on the honey-coloured stone that has withstood almost a thousand years. At night the Alhambra looks as if it’s suspended in the sky, its outlines more bewitching than ever. If only you could walk through it at night. Wait a minute, you can! The Alhambra is open for night visits to a select few – the ones who book ahead, as numbers are wisely limited to retain the intimacy and magic of the experience. And what an experience. Walking through this palatial fortress takes on a surreal character in the dark, lit only by lanterns and soft lights. It isn’t spooky but romantic, especially when you look back down over the walls and see Granada sparkling below. If you can spot the medieval Albaicín quarter just across the valley you’ll know where to head the following day, but for now enjoy this bewitching experience and soak in the Thousand-and-One-Nights atmosphere.

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Discover the other Málaga If you think you know Málaga you’re in for a surprise, a pleasant one, for this city offers more than meets the eye. For an experience with a difference, head out into the lesser-known sights.

So, you know Málaga, been there, done that, seen all there is to see? Let me guess. You’ve been to the quayside Muelle Uno, strolled along the gardens and plazas of the long avenue, sauntered along Calle Larios, checked out the massive cathedral, maybe even visited the Pompidou or Picasso museums and grabbed a bite at the El Pimpi tapas bar. That means you’ve scratched the surface, really. Don’t get me wrong, you’ve done well, but you’re not there yet, not by a long shot. There’s more to explore in Málaga than the main sites alone, that’s why they’re called ‘main sites’ that attract tourists while less well-known experiences remain limited to those in the know.

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Alternative experiences in Málaga In reality you can head in one of many directions for an authentic taste of this city, but staying in the centre there are a few that really stand out. You could, for instance, follow those lovely shaded gardens and monumental buildings along the main avenue up along a steep hillside slope to the Alcazar fortress. Now a Parador hotel, this former fighting castle rewards you for the effort of climbing uphill with spectacular views across the city, the harbour and the coastline stretching west towards Torremolinos and eventually Marbella and Estepona. Come back down along the bullring and you spot the sandy beaches and fish restaurants just across the road. Few cities this size have beaches that close by, but in Málaga they extend all the way to a fisherman’s village near the posh old suburb of Pedregalejo. Or you could veer back towards the centre and wander around the super food hall known as the Mercado Municipal.

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Cars, food and music Among the eclectic experiences waiting for you is the Museo Automovilístico de Málaga, a car and fashion museum set within a historic building close to the centre, which has one of the best collections of its kind anywhere in the world. Priceless fashion and art follow priceless cars as you walk through the history of the automobile from its earliest forms to the prototypes of the future. It is a true experience for car and fashion lovers alike, complete with famous models from Bond movies, celebrities and legendary races. Apart from one of the best car museums in the world, Málaga is also a growing culinary and nightlife destination, so if all that drooling in the museum has got you a little thirsty, head back into the centre and find up the Antigua Casa de Guardía, the oldest bar in the city. Never a more authentic drink will be had, for this is a venue straight out of the past. You feel like you’ve stepped into a reallife Western as you enter, with a low wooden bar along the length of the establishment where old guys in white coats serve you above all chilled Vermouth from the hills around the city. It’s lively, bustling and just how it should be, full of real atmosphere. The fresh shrimp specialities of the house are a perfect accompaniment for a beer. If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth and like a bit of refreshing calm and cool temperatures after all that action, then Puerta Oscura is your next stop. It’s situated just up from the cathedral, so a five-minute walk will take you there. Step into a completely different world here, but also one that feels like it belongs to another time. Where the old ‘Western’ bar is charmingly raw and rowdy, Puerta Oscura is calmer, more refined – and the air conditioning works well! Ask for a cocktail, wine, coffee, tea and have it with one of the delicious cakes or pastries, sitting in what feels like an ambience of classic charm. The younger crowd may like to hang out in the Mercado de la Merced, a funky food hall off the big square with something of a studenty feel. Just the place to hang, drink, socialise and have a snack before or after seeing a show at the nearby Teatro Cervantes, which serves up everything from flamenco and classical music to modern dance and major pop acts. Dotted around are smaller live music venues for rock, jazz, Spanish and alternative music, so just keep probing and you will continue to discover more and more that you weren’t expecting to. The key is to keep coming back, speak with the locals and look past the main sites. Happy explorations!

Marbella gets smart There was a time, not so long ago, when the Costa del Sol’s economy was largely about tourism and property development. Not anymore. Today, the tech scene has arrived and it is bringing with it a whole new way of working and range of opportunities.

For decades this coast had something of a monoeconomy whose narrow base sustained a growing local and expat community. The region was an isolate that enjoyed little interaction with Málaga, the provincial capital to the east, even when the latter began developing a business park and university faculties dedicated to technology in the 1990s. These started taking off in the new millennium, and such is their impact now that they have begun to effect the city that has over the past twenty years transformed itself into one of the most attractive cultural centres in Europe. Málaga is a shining gem a little over half an hour’s drive from Marbella, and now that the link between the two has been firmly established and many a resident and homeowner of the Costa del Sol regularly visits the big city for shopping, dining, art and weekend getaways, it has also led to the creation of a tech connection.

The tech scene comes to Marbella With the likes of Google, TDK, Oracle and many more now operating in Málaga, you might say that its success in attracting large technology corporations and promoting local startups is spilling over onto Marbella and other parts of the coast. While this is certainly true, there is more to it than that. You see, just recently tech has been growing from the inside too, as a new generation of digital entrepreneurs and successful start-up founders, not to mention people related to funds and venture capital investors, began buying homes in Marbella and surroundings. “They include people of the calibre of the founders of Spotify,” says Tim Lloyd, himself a software engineer with several start-up ventures under his belt who forms part of locally based Biznaga Partners, a consultancy specialised in helping tech entrepreneurs and investors find each other. Like many other young tech specialists, he works from his home office, occasionally drops into one of the new co-working centres that are popping up around the coast, but above all likes to be surrounded by the vibe and atmosphere of a cool café. “Ground is my favourite, originally because of the parking and the excellent New York bakery/coffeeshop look and feel, but once I got to know the pastries and menu I was sold.” He meets there with his colleagues, including Mark Wilkins, who has just discovered Soul at the sports club close to his home. “It has a very similar feel to Ground,” says Mark, “you can see that it comes from the same philosophy.” Venues of this kind are fast becoming the favourite spot of a new generation of tech-based entrepreneurs and professionals, including those who link them up with the world of finance, business management, and ultimately opportunity. “Marbella is evolving, maturing in an economic way, and though we still live in a very pleasant bubble we’re connecting to the world around us, and the opportunities it creates. It’s an exciting new phase of growth and development to be a part of.”

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