The Weekly Buzz 12

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VISTA Costa Blanca® Group Publication

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Issue 12/ 12- 18 December

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Ciudad Patricia´s traditional Christmas Market “The Krankies” TV comeback Benidorm Series 6

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Have Your Say!

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BENIDORM NEEDS THE BRITS

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What’s Hot and What’s Not

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Where would Benidorm be without the Brits? According to the survey of occupation made by HOSBEC (Business Association Hotels Benidorm and Costa Blanca) between its associated tourist apartments the data recorded this November compared to the last 6 years is amazing. The British Tourist Occupancy was over 70% of holiday apartments situated in Benidorm and the occupation of apartments in Benidorm grew 11.6 points in November this is a fantastic improvement especially when compared to the same period in 2012. Nearly three-fourths of guests staying in

apartments are British, that is 70.8% of the total holiday market. Below you can see the difference in percentages from all guests in Benidorm. 1. British 2. Spanish 3. Dutch 4. Belgian 5. French

70.8% 15.5% 6.2% 3.1% 0.7%

The occupation for December 2013 forecast is 41.8% at this time.

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Where to getyour

weekly Buzz every Thursday

1. Carrefour- Finestrat 2. Ex Pats Super Market - Villa Joyosa 3. Mendoza Supermarket Alfaz Del Pi 4. Mendoza Supermarket Albir 5. Quicksave Minimarket – Rincon De Loix 6. Benidorm Palace - Rincon De Loix 7. Bermuda Apartments - C/Estocolmo 8. Round Town Travel Shops - Rincon De Loix, C/ Gerona, 9. Costa Less - Avenida Zargarza (Near Outdoor Market) 10. Yorkshire Prides Pubs - 1, 2 & 3 11. Vincents Pubs - White Horse, Triangle, Plaza

Weather This Weeks

Today 16ºC Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday

15º 15º 13º 14º 14º 14º

USEFUL Numbers

SAMU 112 AMBULANCE 092 NATIONAL POLICE 091 / 112 LOCAL POLICE 96 680 77 66 / 092 RED CROSS 913 354 545 GUARDIA CIVIL 96 585 40 30 EMERGENCIES 112 / 085 TAXIS 96 586 18 18 BRITISH CONSULATE 96 521 61 90 TOURIST INFO 96 586 00 95 AIRPORT TRANSFERS - Fly Bus www.flybus.com 902 123 276. See our interactive Alicante Airport Buses Route Map to find convenient pick-up and drop-off points for your journey.

24hr chemist OPEN EVERY DAY

Avenida del Mediterraneo,29. Tel.: 966 812 608 www.farmaciabenidorm24horas.com

THEME PARKS aquanatura CLOSED terra natura Open 10.30 - 17.00 Mon-Fri closed 25th dec & jan 1st

Mundomar 10.00 - 18.00 every day closed 25th dec & jan 1st Terra Mitica CLOSED

Monday

La Nucia - Opposite the auditorium in the town square, would be best to drive.

Tuesday

Altea - Largest street market in the region, drive or take the number 10 bus from Benidorm.

Wednesday

Benidorm - Outdoor market, situated near Hotel Pueblo, you can´t miss it, just follow the crowds!

Thursday

Villa Joyosa - Big market 09:00-14:00 free road parking. - El Cisne - Flea market, not far from Benisol camping.

Friday

Alfaz Del Pi - The number 10 bus will take you to the start of the market, find fresh fruit & veg, clothes and shoes!

Saturday

La Cala - Busy Saturday market located right on the beach, great fun!

Sunday

Benidrom, La Cala, El Cisne, Albir, La Nucia & Polop - Lots to choose from

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Nelson Mandela

CENTRO Plaza Canalejas El Torrejó. Benidorm Tel: 96 585 1311 www.benidorm.org/turismo benidorm@touristinfo.net Mon-Fri 09:00 to 21:00 h. Saturday 10:00 to 13:30 h. EUROPA Avenida Europa s/n ( C/ Ibiza) Benidorm Tel: 96 586 0095 www.benidorm.org/turismo benidormeuropa@touristinfo.net Mon-Fri 10:00 to 13:00h & 17:00 to 20:00 h. BUS STATION 96 683 1648 RINCON LOIX Avenida Derramador, s/n Benidorm Tel: 96 680 5914 www.benidorm.org/turismo benidormrincon@touristinfo.net Mon-Fri 09:00 to 21:00 h Albir Playa. Paseo de las Estrellas. Platja de l’Albir 2. C.P: 03581. L’Alfàs del Pi. Tel: 96 686 7022. www.lalfas.com alfasplaya@touristinfo.net Summer opening 09:00 to 14:00 & 17:00 to 20:00h Rest of the year Mon-Fri 09:00 to 14:00 h. L’ALFAS DEL PI Calle Federico García Lorca, 11 (Bajos Ayto.) C.P: 03580. L’Alfàs del Pi Tel: 96 588 8905 or 96 588 8265 www.lalfas.com alfasdelpi@touristinfo.net Winter Mon-Sat 09:00 to 14:00 h. Summer Mon-Thu 09:00 to 20:00 Sat-Sun 10:00 to 18:00 h.

The Weekly Buzz welcomes any

comments and feedback regarding your experiences, notices of events and local news please call us today or email us : buzz@vistacostablanca.com

WE ARE ING RECRUIT t sales agen CALL US NOW: 965 857 300 d CV: Email with updateca.com an

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buzz@vistacostablanca.com

HELLO!

With only 12 days to Christmas it´s time for the Christmas tree and decorations to be put up and the baking to commence. It´s time for the preparations to commence for the festive time of year. My idea to get going in the Christmas spirit this year will be to visit the Ciudad Patricia on December 14th; there will be a Christmas Market with many festive stands, plus mulled wine, Christmas cakes and many other stands with food, decorations and gifts. Ciudad Patricia has been holding this annual Christmas event for eight years and it has become a fixture on many people’s diaries, with over 1,000 people attending last year. You can find Ciudad Patricia in Benidorm turn left just before the Hotel Deloix, coming from the direction of Benidorm Palace its easily signposted ´Ciudad Patricia´. Also from Saturday 14th to Monday to January 6th in La Plaza de Navidad (next to City Hall) there will be an ice rink, bouncy castle, attractions and activities for kids and adults. A lot of fun is guaranteed… So there is no excuse not to get into the spirit of Christmas and in Benidorm it really is amazing. To be honest you would be hard pushed to find anywhere else with so much to offer. Entertainment, great restaurants, warm bars and most of all the perfect sea front views it is an ideal way to relax simply taking time to walk in the sunshine. The Spanish people are always looking for a reason to ‘fiesta’ and in Benidorm they know how to party so Christmas and the New Year offer many parties and celebrations for all ages. By night you can enjoy the famous Benidorm cabaret bars with live comedy acts, singers, and entertainers you’ll really feel the Christmas spirit when you are out and about and not forgetting the huge bargains in many of the shops to choose from. The Hotels really know how to throw a party as well, Celebrations begin with a Gala meal, unlimited amounts of wine and spirits all followed by a programme of live entertainment and dancing until the early hours. Looking online, Monarch holidays have some great value Christmas breaks on offer. From only 338€ per person for 7 nights including flights and airport transfer, you can stay at La Caseta self-catering from the 20th December to the 27th or to stay on the same dates at the ´Servi Group´ Hotel Orange, full board including flights and airport transfer all at a cost of just 499€ per person.

The Royal British Legion Social scene

Friday 20th: Christmas Lunch and Party at Showboat, Benidorm, with entertainment. 1pm you must book with me! 965 864 394 Tuesday 31st Dec: The Peppermill, Benidorm 8pm New Years Eve Running buffet and partying until the early hours must book early and pay in advance. Few Places left. Friday 31st January: GALA DINNER DANCE

Weather Averages for Benidorm in december

Pizzeria Restaurante

So enjoy the Christmas time in Benidorm. Merry Christmas!

·Try our special BIG salads ·All home made pasta dishes ·Pizzas baked in a wood burning oven. Taste the difference ·Flame grilled steaks

´The Weekly Buzz´ Team Marco Baiardo - Editor & Chief marco@vistacostablanca.com

Benidorm´s Oldest & Tastiest Italian Restaurant MON - SUN: 1PM-4PM & 7-12PM CALLE GERONA, 3 - BENIDORM

CONTENTS

10 Entertainment 12 Travel Around 14 Food & Drink 17 Benidorm Map 21 Shopping & Style 26 Horoscopes & Puzzles 30 Sporting Life

Temperature 14°C. Low Temperature 5°C. High Temperature 18°C Sunshine Hours 7.9 hrs Rainfall 28mm Rainfall days 18.6 days Sea Temperature 18°C

TEL: 966 808 707

OPPOSITE INDIA GATE RESTAURANT

COMPANY Info

Edita Vista Costa Blanca SL 966 800 551. Office: C/Zurbarán,21. La Nucia, Alicante 03530. Sales Office: Via Emilio Ortuño, 15. Apartado 158. 03500. BENIDORM. 965 857 300. Tel.: 966 800 551 | buzz@vistacostablanca.com | www.vistacostablanca.com NIF: B54507306 | Office Open- Monday – Friday 09.30-15.30 Editor: Marco Baiardo - marco@vistacostablanca.com Design & layout: VISTA Design Dept.- design@vistacostablanca.com Print: Mediaprint La Nucia - www.mediaprint.es ADVERTISING DEADLINE EVERY WEDNESDAY 12 NOON FOR THE FOLLOWING WEEK PUBLICATION. Reproduction of the content of this publication is strictly prohibited without the consent of VISTA COSTA BLANCA SL – THE COMPANY CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS PRINTED AS A RESULT OF DETAILS AND ARTWORK SUPPLIED OR CLAIMS MADE BY OUR ADVERTISERS. VISTA COSTA BLANCA MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE EDITORIAL CONTENT BUT ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILTY FOR ANY INACCURACIES.

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

ALBA Consultas Ltd hope you have a relaxing and trouble free holiday Though Benidorm is usually a fun, holidaycentered resort, sometimes things just don´t go as we hoped. In a foreign country, we do not always know where to turn, and who to go to for help and advice for stressing eventualities such as: If you become the victim of a crime such as theft or assault or purchase faulty goods or services, ALBA will translate and represent your interests in the case. We can travel to you to make the police report and provide you with a written translation in English. If you are taken unwell during your stay we will accompany you and offer an understanding ear as well as fluent bilingual skills, then deal with insurance issues and where necessary reclaims. All of these and many more legal matters can be dealt with from our offices in Benidorm, in your own language, saving you time. Our friendly team are available either to assist you in a full range of services to make your life, or holiday here in Spain easier or, indeed, handle the entire process for you. Ranging from fullblown lawsuits, to buying, selling or renting a property, making a Will, importing or transferring a vehicle, also tax and residency issues. Alba Consultas sound advice in the heart of Benidorm at reasonable prices.

ALBA CONSULTAS Language Law and Integration in Spain

Alba Consultas are now in Benidorm, located right next to Benidorm palace!

The friendly team at Alba continue to offer legal advice and solutions but now from their new offices located right beside the Benidorm Palace, in Avda Dr. Severo Ochoa. Wether you are buying, selling or renting properties, making a Will, importing or transferring a vehicle, presenting a tax return even registering with the Town Hall, doctors or applying for residency - they can advise and help you! Call 692 386 293 for a free no obligation quote and to book your appointment, or view their website www.albaconsultas.com to find out more. Check them out now on Facebook. Alba Consultas, sound advice in the heart of Benidorm at reasonable prices. Alba consultas, specialise in translations, law and Integration in spain.

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It’s all you need for a great read.

IN MEMORY OF ALAN DIXON

A donation of 600€ was given in Alan's memory to EMAUS donated by his family and friends worldwide including from Australia and Dubai. Alan died suddenly at home in the UK on 1st September aged 68 leaving his wife of 46 years, two daughters and one grandson. The charity was close to his heart and he would have given the donation his whole hearted support. Photo from left to right: Rob - Liz - Tad - Stuie - Pam - Jeanie ( wife) - Anne Javier (EMAUS) - Claire (daughter)


what´s On On December 14th, Ciudad Patricia will be holding its traditional Christmas Market. In the case, we mean 'traditional' because there will be many festive stands, plus of course mulled wine, Christmas Cake and many other stands with food, decorations and gifts. Ciudad Patricia has been holding this annual Christmas for 8 years and it's become a fixture on many people's diaries, with over a 1,000 people in attendance. Ciudad Patricia is an excellent venue for a Christmas Market, set in the woodlands just next to Benidorm. It´s easy to get to with ample parking and what makes the event so successful is the incredible variety of stalls including: jewellery, Christmas cards, ornaments, decorations, gifts, flowers, delicacies and Christmas food and drinks. Ciudad Patricia is set in 100,000 square metres of beautiful natural parkland; this beautiful residential park is the best kept secret of the Costa Blanca which is regularly maintained. These surroundings add significantly to the experience enjoyed by residents living here. The grounds include 3 large swimming pools, mini-golf and tennis courts. For more than 25 years the climate, the nature,

buzz@vistacostablanca.com

the comfort, the security and all the services satisfy the wishes of the senior citizens that have a zest for living. Ciudad Patricia offers a complete package that increases comfort and a pleasant way of life with an excellent service. No worries about the maintenance of your house, sociability and high-quality medical care when you need it. Nothing is necessary, everything is possible. If you or anyone you know is interested in the resort, there will be plenty of staff around to answer your questions during the Christmas Market, so this maybe a great opportunity to get some Christmas shopping done and maybe a whole lot more! HOW TO GET THERE Ciudad Patricia is easy to find. From the A7, take the exit for Benidorm Levante and then immediately after the bridge, follow N332 towards direction Albir/ Valencia. After 1km, take the exit signposted Benidorm Levante/Aqualandia/ Mundomar. At the next set of traffic lights turn left. After 500metres, turn up the road next to the Hotel Deloix (just along from Benidorm Palace), signposted towards Ciudad Patricia. We are 400 metres at the end of this road. Alternatively, just hop on a number 11 bus in and around Benidorm, it comes straight to our front door.

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

TERRA MITICA TURN AROUND

It’s all you need for a great read.

COLLECTION OF ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR CHILDREN

Red Cross and the Department of Youth and Children organise a campaign to collect essential items for children. Both institutions have organised a campaign for the collection of essential items, in order to assist those families who most need help. Red Cross will be responsible for collecting and distributing donated items to needy families. The campaign will run until 3 January and donations must be submitted in the very premises of the Youth Council.

Back in 2010, the Aqualandia group took over the management of the amusement park in a lease agreement which had a purchase option made available in 2012. In July 2012 it acquired the stake in the shares amounting to 65 million euro but still was left facing a number of huge challenges. They had to drastically cut costs of staff, external suppliers and then increase of course make a plan to increase the revenue. They managed to reduce their work force and save 51% of staff costs in 2012 and together with a clever marketing campaign of Value for money ticket prices, combining different offers, revising food, drink and gifts at the park and reorganising

the whole opening and closing schedule they managed to create a winning formula. Terra Mitica first opened back in the year 2000, and after a long process and some tough times they closed their 2012 year accounts with an operating profit of 1.59 million euro This is looking up for the struggling amusement park but it still has a number of debts to pay off including a payment of 20 million euro to Sociedad Proyectos Temáticos de la Comunidad Valenciana which is due before the end of 2013. The management have done a fantastic job and shown previous owner a properly run amusement park can make money but there is still a long way to go to.

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Its Christmas time, it´s time for solidarity


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

Puppies are not just for Christmas

A child is given a puppy at Christmas. The puppy has a big bow around their neck and everyone is thrilled. This scene is considered normal for many. Even big hit movies like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993) shows children being given puppies as gifts. Unfortunately, a puppy at Christmas usually means that the puppy will be abandoned by Easter. Bringing a puppy home is like bringing home a one year old child. The puppies need constant interaction, supervision and are not born knowing where to go to the toilet, so always need cleaning up after. Puppies are also very expensive they need quality food, quality veterinary care and they can destroy expensive objects or do damage to others property if left unsupervised. They also are expensive in terms of time commitment. Very young puppies have to be fed three times a day, usually need to go

outside every two hours and need to play. They will not calm down just because your favourite television programme is about to come on. People abandon puppies because they do not realize these are not toys that can be taken off of the shelf and turned on at your convenience. Far too many impulse Xmas pups are abandoned in January for weeing, chewing, barking and generally being harder to live with than the present buyer considered. Benidorm Rescue Centre Christmas Appeal - Don’t buy a pup as you can save a life Every year we hear stories of post-Christmas abandonment so why not do a lot more and help a dog already in need at the local rescue centre. Benidorm Dog Pound and it´s volunteers do so much for abandoned dogs and instead of paying hundreds for a new pup you can make a donation and look at adoption! With adoption you can take your new friend for a walk and get to know each other before making a life changing decision, if adoption is too much of a commitment they are always looking for foster homes during the winter. They are also always on the lookout for volunteers to take the dogs for a walk, you can volunteer you can come every day except on Wednesdays and Sundays. The dog pound is open from 10-1 o’clock and the dogs are looking forward to seeing you! “Calendario Solidario” Charity Calendar) Calendario Solidario is a project that was born last year due to the need to pay for treatments, tests and operations for the dogs in Benidorm pound. It´s operated by a group of volunteers who donate their time helping the doggies and getting as many as

possible adopted. The money raised from the sale of the calendar helps the volunteers get

the medical treatment the dogs need and also goes towards homing costs. Calendar 2014 is ready with high hopes as the volunteers want to raise as much money as possible so we can help even moreof our wonderful dogs who need it most. Please help us by ordering your copy, from our facebook page Benidorm Dog Homing and contacting Inma. It costs just 10€ and you will be getting help to the dogs in most need. If you would like to foster, adopt, volunteer to walk or make a donation you can email yeso1977@hotmail. com, call Maria on (0034 677 373 393) or visit the facebook page just search for Benidorm Dog Homing.

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

´The Krankies´ TV comeback in Benidorm Series 6 Comedy duo The Krankies are to make a TV comeback with roles in the hit TV series ´Benidorm´ they will be playing friends of the show's swinger couple. The variety show double act which were once regulars on the popular children's show Crackerjack will appear in the sixth series of the comedy drama, the first episode will be shown on Thursday January 2nd. Ian and Janette Tough, the married couple behind the act, join other stars such as Joan Collins and TV chef Rustie Lee in taking guest roles. The sixth series began production

on 25 March 2013, and ended in June. Nicholas Burns who played Martin Weedon in Series 1-3 has been rumoured to return as Martin in Series 6 on a stag do. There have also been rumours that Matthew Kelly who played Cyril Babcock in Series 5 will also return to the series. Hugh Sachs who plays Gavin and Elsie Kelly who plays Noreen Maltby will not be able to return for the series due to other commitments; however Elsie Kelly will return for Series 7. It was also confirmed that a new family, the Dykes would be arriving during this series.

Christmas in Benidorm Begins There is so much to do in Benidorm for Christmas and we will see from this weekend the start of the Christmas festivities. From Saturday 14th to Monday January 6th in La Plaza de Navidad (next to City Hall) there will be ice rink, bouncy castle, attractions and activities for kids and adults. A lot of fun is guaranteed! Also you can experience the Magic of Christmas at Mundomar in Benidorm! The large family of Mundomar is ready to

Benidorm Casino building project starts

The new casino will occupy an area of 3,600 m2 and is expected to be built by July 2014 The urban complex will also inlcude a shopping mall and a 4-star hotel in the future The new infrastructure will create about 70 direct jobs The Casino Mediterranean announced the start of the construction of a new gambling and entertainment establishment in Benidorm. Casino Mediterraneo will be located in the Rincon de Loix , on the Avenida del Mediterráneo, it is currently open land with a underground car park that exists just 150 metres from the beach of Levante. The investment in the construction of the building is 1.8 million euro and will have an area of 3,600 m2, included a 4,000 m2

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area for commercial premises .This space is complemented by a three-story parking , and the last part of the project will eventually be a 4 star hotel The expected completion date for the casino is estimated to be July 2014. There will four floors. The ground floor will integrate most of the gambling activity ( slot machines, table games, poker room and sports betting ), while the first floor will be used for poker tournaments . There will also be a space for culture through its multipurpose room to be located on the second floor with a terrace of 300 m2. The basement will house an administrative area. The façade will keep the same aesthetic characteristics as that of the Casino Mediterraneo OrihuelaCosta , opened last March with the corporate blue and a golden palm tree its identifying graphic element Laying of the first the foundation stone During the ceremony of laying the first stone , an urn was buried containing various symbolic symbolically such as the casino chips , the day´s newspapers, the plans and the minutes of the signed agreement by the participants at the event.

celebrate the Christmas and New year holiday period. In each new show and in every area of the park, visitors will find themselves immersed in the Christmas atmosphere Father Christmas will be there from 20 December so that young and old alike can their dreams come true. In addition, Mundomar provides the opportunity for all visitors to to take the most special souvenir photo. Come to celebrate Christmas time in Benidorm!

harley christmas

ride out Remember to keep a look out on Sunday 15th for a group of Santa´s all riding Harley motorcycles. This is an annual event which has been running since 2009 is organised by the Costa Blanca Bikers Espana Group and members will be riding there powerful motorcycles through Benidorm on their way to deliver toys to the youngsters cared for by EMAUS. You can catch them along the promenade on Poniente beach between 10.30am and 11am, the time may vary as they will be stopping at Bar Nevada for breakfast. They will then continue on to Benidorm Town Hall for group photographs, it will only be a short stop as they will then head onto Albir and ride along the beach front into Altea to some eagerly awaiting children.


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

entertainment

NEW YEARS EVE Gala Dinner

Sumptuous Gala dinner Magnificent Show Party Novelty Bag & Lucky Grapes Free Bar Two Live Bands Guest Artist DAVID CIVERA Hot Chocolate & Churros in the am BOOKINGS:

It’s all you need for a great read.

With little more than a couple of months to go to the Christmas and New Year Holiday season it's time to be planning where to go and what to do. Here in Benidorm we have an extra long festive season which lasts up until 6th January when the Three Kings arrive from the east, which means that the famous Benidorm Palace has a series of FIVE special Gala dinners and shows over the period. Noted for its fabulous food and service which makes a marvellous opener to a night of spectacular entertainment, the Palace has been satisfying its customers since 1977 and is still packing them in today. Tickets for the special nights are sure to be at a premium, so our advice is book early to avoid disappointment. On Christmas night and Boxing Day evening (25th and 26th December) you can enjoy a SIX course meal with wine for two, Cava and see The Drifters – Up On The Roof, Under The Boardwalk, Save The Last Dance For Me – plus the show for only €62 (€29 for kids) which sounds like a bargain to me!

ICE SKATING IN BENIDORM From Saturday 14th to Monday to January 6th in: La Plaza de Navidad (next to City Hall).

Will be an ice rink, bouncy castle, attractions and activities for kids and adults.

PRESENTS A SLIGHTLY ADULT PANTO

PANTO LOONS Boxing Day Marina Hotel Benidorm DINNER & SHOW 10€ Doors open 7pm dinner 8pm, show 9pm Tickets Available at the Marina Hotel

The exotic animals and Marine park in Benidorm announces its new magical Christmas campaign that will last until the 6th January New shows and entertainment and decoration and a visit from Santa Claus are some of the surprises that Mundomar has prepared for Christmas Parrots, sea lions and of course dolphins. The large family of Mundomar is ready to celebrate the Christmas and New year holiday period. In each new show and in every area of the park, visitors will find themselves immersed in the Christmas atmosphere Father Christmas will be there from 20 December so that young and old alike can their dreams come true. In addition, Mundomar provides the opportunity for all visitors to to take the most special souvenir photo. The Magic of Christmas has come to Mundomar in Benidorm!

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The panto is provided by the ‘Smile Charity Group’ has been written for them by the very talented John Wallace. This ‘slightly adult’ Panto is being performed as a ‘Dinner Show’, opening at the Marina Hotel in Benidorm on Boxing Day before touring the local area. The performance at Benidorm will benefit the local Children’s Home, and profits from the other venues will go to local charities. The ‘Smile Charity Group’ is a totalling non-profit making organisation where members don’t even claim out-of-pocket expenses.

smilecharitygroup@gmail.com


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

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travel around Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

Teulada-Moraira

You can find Teulada-Moraira in Alicante province, just 120 km from It is so well communicated that you can come and 80km from Alicante city, easily connected with the directly with your car, by bus (bus route Alicante- Valencia national road N-332 and the motorway AP-7, junction n63. Valencia) or by train (railway line Denia-Alicante). Teulada-Moraira has a Mediterranean climate Situated in the Marina Alta region, has as and an average temperature of 18º all year. neighbours the villages of El Poble Nou de This municipality, 185m above sea level, 8km of coast and an area Benitatxell, Benissa and Gata de Gorgos. of 32km2, has two centres of population, Teulada and Moraira. The

rest of the municipal district boasts about a splendid urban planning developed in a horizontal way that takes shape of a garden city, where you can find houses (single family dwellings) which welcome both residents and as many visitors that spend their holidays here. Teulada-Moraira offers the possibility to wander the sign-posted walks that permit nature lovers to get to know the beauties of the area from a different perspective. With benign temperatures through most of the year one can really enjoy this alternative activity.

La Font de L’Horta y Benimarco

Starting from Avenida de Mediterráneo, via the camino de San Miguel, we will pass the Creueta de l’ Ave Maria ( a cast iron cross with an inscription in ceramic). The cross indicates the spot where , according to tradition, St Vicente Ferrer halted and blessed the area to prevent the plague and the wrath of pirates from overcoming the population . Taking the lane to the right, we will come to the Font de L’Horta with its two water outlets and a small watering place. This fountain is much enjoyed because of its tranquillity and natural beauty. From there we continue on the Cami del Boticari, starting behind this font. On arriving at the Cami del Pouet del Moro, we turn to the right passing in front of the well which dates back to the middle ages, until we reach the road to Benimarco, which is a typical rural hamlet shared by both Teulada and Benisa. Along this walk we will see many work sheds, typical of this region. We finish up our tour in the square where the hermitage of Sant Jaume lies. The architectural characteristics of the building, with a single nave, are comparable to those of the so-called “conquest” churches. In the square, there is a nice balcony with a great view from the sea.

Font Santa

Font Santa Hermitage, on the main road to Moraira, after only a few metres we can turn to the right to the Cami de les Rotgetes, that joins on Camí de la Sisca. This peaceful route will take us eventually back to the main road, but just before crossing the road a small fountain with its old watering place will be showed, its “la Font de la Jana” .Here, according to folklore, on the night of 23rd of June appeared a mysterious fairy, “ La Joanaina “, who granted wishes in exchange for carrying her on our shoulders, the only condition being not to turn to look at her. This legend possibly originated in pagan traditions of old times. From there we will have to cross the road to reach La Font Santa. This fountain owes its miraculous origin to the hand of Saint Vicente Ferrer, who brought forth drinking water for the first time to relieve the thirst of his sister Constanza. Be there drought or heavy rain, water always flows. This peculiarity has made it a point of pilgrimage. An hermitage dated on the 19th century is attached to the fountain as well as the the hermit’s dwelling, of the same period, where until recently a family lived. 12


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

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food & drink Carpe Diem

Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

Bar Restaurante Carpe Diem | Avenida Oscar Espla, 4 03581 Playa Albir | Tel. 96 686 49 46

Happy 5th Anniversary to Nicole and team On 22 November Nicole and her son Kas together with the kitchen team Wilam and Luis, celebrated their 5th year anniversary at Carpe Diem Restaurant in Albir. I went along with family and friends to enjoy a perfect Sunday lunch and was even more surprised to find out that Carpe Diem still offers the amazing Menu at only 11.95€ including a glass of wine, beer or soft drink. This fantastic menu is available every day including evenings and is extremely good value, in fact I would be surprised to find anything anywhere that could come close for quality and value for money. A superb choice of 6 starters and mains together with a drink followed by coffee or dessert, really makes going out well worth it because you couldn´t shop and cook at home for less! The restaurant is stylish and comfortable with seating available in the glass panelled and covered front terrace, or in their beautiful inside seating area. The heaters were on, it was cosy, warm and what I think is always a great start to any meal is being comfortable. Greeted by Nicole the perfect host we read the menu and together a selection of starters and mains were ordered. I had decided for a classic prawn cocktail and I can honestly say how impressed I was with the amount of fresh cleaned prawns that filled the tall glass with crispy lettuce. My partner had another classic starter of Pâté with toast and

once again the portion size was amazing and if you wanted to complain then it would have to of been for having too much!! The mains arrived and between us there was Steak, Pork Fillet Satay, Autumn Lasagne and I had chosen the Schnitzel. The quality of the produce and the presentation was exceptional; the steak was thick and chunky cooked medium just as ordered. It certainly looked like fillet steak although the menu just said “Steak”. I tasted the Pork Fillet Satay and it was soft and tender with a rich peanut sauce. I had the Schnitzel it was moist and tasty I had ordered a peppercorn sauce to go with it and together with the chips I was extremely happy. We all followed our mains with Apple cake and coffee and all agreed that we had had the best Sunday lunch money could buy! 11.95€ Menu Starters Soup of the day Russian Salad Pâté with toast Chicken Curry Salad Prawn Cocktail

Mains Steak Pork Fillet Satay Pork Chop Schnitzel BBQ Chicken Fillet Cod Fillet

ALL SERVED WITH CHIPS AND SALAD Dessert - Ice cream - Coffee - Cake 15.95€ Special Menu is regularly changed and will feature seasonal produce

Carpe Diem are closed on 24th December and 31 of December

STARTERS -Fish Terrine with salmon caviar and a chive-crème fraîche -Salad of rocket lettuce, cherry tomatoes, walnuts and croûtons of goatcheese -Roast beef Salad with a cranberry dressing -crab cocktail with a sherrymayonnaise -Turkey ragoût with mushrooms and a puff pastry envelope SOUP -Oxtail soup with madeira and oyster mushrooms SPOON Lemon sorbet

MAINCOURSE option 1 -Merluza fillet with a leek-serrano-potatoe puree -Turkey with a cream-tarragon sauce and wild rice -Shoulder of lamb with a honey-thyme sauce and roasted potatoes MAINCOURSE option 2 -Grilled nile perch with a butter sauce and roasted potatoes -Pork fillet with pan fried mushrooms, chestnuts and pont neuf potatoes -Rib-eye steak with crushed peppercorns and a port sauce with homemade fries DESSERTS -Orange-Grand Marnier Tiramisu -Chocolate surprise with a trio of coulis

OPTION1

17.95€ 24.95€ OPTION2

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buzz@vistacostablanca.com

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December 01

It’s all you need for a great read. Main Bus Station

HOTEL INDEX

01 Poseidon Playa 02 Magic Villa del Mar 03 RH Royal 04 Terralta 05 Victoria 06 Avenida 07 Bristol Park 08 Vista Oro 09 Magic Cristal Park 10 Prince Park 11 Princesa 12 La Era Park 13 Sandos Monaco 14 Castilla 15 Flamingo Playa 16 Flamingo Benidorm 17 Alpha Apartments 18 Sol Costa Blanca 19 Cimbel 20 Venus 21 Helios 22 Presidente 23 Don Pancho 24 Ambassador Playa 25 Magic Villa de Benidorm 26 Riviera Beach Hotel 27 Rosamar 28 Calypso 29 Flash Hotel Benidorm 30 Sol Pelicanos 31 Sol Ocas 32 Nereo 33 Levante Club Apartments 34 Los Dalmatas 35 Magic Agua Rock Gardens 36 Regente 37 Dynastic 38 Melia Benidorm 39 Buenavista Apartments 40 Mediterraneo 41 DeLoix 42 Palm Beach 43 Don Jorge Apartments

79

04 15 51 14 12 11

84

01 89 108

02

09 Town Hall 39 08 03 05 102 07 59

31 21 06

Poniente Beach

32

47

13

29 88

3882

46 100 27 18 05 03 07 10 67 56

33 76 17 63 25

75

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Chemists Designed by Graphitec Espana 619 236 428

VOTED BEST

C/Gerona,2/14. Benidorm Tel.: 636 059 785 www.restaurantindiangate.com

OPEN DAILY 6PM-LATE

Avda Del MediterrĂĄneo, 33

Venue locations approximate due to map scale

Outdoor Market

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Levante Beach

INDIAN RESTAURANT IN BENIDORM

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62 65 2610793 30 11 22101 Open

24 hours

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39 117

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

18

It’s all you need for a great read.


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

MONROES CARVERY

EMAUS Charity Christmas Event - 19th December. 8pmEnjoy a fabulous Indian Feast and help raise money Spice of Life Restaurant Benidorm. HELP THE CHILDREN OF EMAUS THIS CHRISTMAS - BOOK YOUR TABLE TODAY CALL US 673652340

Meal and Drink - 15€ per person 5€ will be donated to EMAUS Choice of Curries served with rice, nan bread and vegetables followed by dessert or coffee.

Benidorm

Open monday – Saturday Lunchtime 1pm-3pm evening 6pm-9pm Sunday from 12.30 pm-9pm

Winter warmer

Monday- Saturday. Lunch and evening

Homemade soup Carvery Homemade Apple crumble

7.50€

Day Sunday 2 courseAll 8.40€ Carvery 3 course 9.95€ After 6pm Main course Only 5.50€

Wednesday Christmas Special

2 course 8.50€ Starter & Christmas Carvery Or Christmas Carvery & dessert

3 course Christmas CaRvery 9.95 € -Must be booked in advance(Available every Wednesday in December apart from the 25th.)

NEW YEARS EVE

Dinner from: 6pm - 8.30pm 5.50€ Carvery 2 Course 6.50€ 3 Course 9.95€

Booking in advance advisable

MENU - Mondays - Saturdays Lunch & evening -Any main course: 4.95€ -2 Course Menu: 6.50€ Choose either a starter or dessert with your main course.

-3 course menu: 9.95€

Choice of starter, main course, dessert & drink + FREE bottle of wine per person to take away with this menu.

Contact - 966 803 306

Avd. de Europa, 11. Benidorm 19


Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

What’s Hot and What’s Not tells us.

It’s all you need for a great read.

Owners: What’s your side of the story?

During the next six weeks we hope to have the response from the owners with their comments to the reviews made on Tripadvisor. We welcome Restaurant & Bar owners to have their say, so don’t delay e-mail us to: buzz@vistacostablanca.com Brisa del Mar Ruperto Chapi, s/n, El Albir

““Wow one of the best””

Restaurante Casa Toni Avenida de Cuenca, 13, Benidorm

“This was ok”

Reviewed 4 December 2013 We have lived in Spain for 10 years and this 5 course meal including wine including wine was an absolute steal! Highly recommended,great choice,cooked to perfection. Miss this one at your peril.

Reviewed 27 September 2013 Food here was nice and reasonable and very clean restaurant. Good choice on the menu also. Handy location - just a bit up from the madness of the strip.

“Excellent value”

Reviewed 16 September 2013 we were out on a walk when we came across this restaurant wanted something different so we gave it a try. i got the sea-bass which was 18euros my husband got fillet steak with peppered sauce which was 24euros all that came with that was sliced potatoes. although it was very nice i dont think it was worth the money even if they put a few veg on at least it would have been more filling. the service was good

Reviewed 12 October 2013 We tried this restaurant after reading the advert in the local free paper. We had the 9.50 euros meal which is excellent value with tapas, bread and alioli, 4 courses and half a bottle of wine each. We had no problem with the service but we were first in the restaurant. Would definitely go again.

“Excellent if you have time to spare”

Reviewed 3 October 2013 On our last day before travelling home, we went out for lunch and tried the Brisa Del Mar in Albir, Costa Brava. The restaurant did a selection of 3 course meals ranging between 11 - 14 Euros which included a full bottle of wine to share between the two of us, bread ali-oli and tapas on arrival. The waiter was English, which helped and it was a very nice meal indeed and exceptionally good value for money. Just one drawback was the time between courses. It might be the continental way to take their time over Sunday lunch, but we had things to do before we caught our plane home. By the time we had finished our starter and main course, we had been in the restaurant for nearly 2 hours and had to ask the waiter to hurry along with the dessert as time was tight. In fairness to them, they did oblige. For anyone wanting to take their time over a good meal at a good price, I would definitely recommend the Brisa Del Mar. On the other hand, if like us, you wanted a quick meal, based on our experience, this is not the place to go.

“Lovely service”

“Great restaurant in Benidorm.”

Reviewed 14 July 2013 A real oasis of calm! Very good service and excellent attention from the owner/chef, Toni. Lovely selection of very fresh fish and good meats. Wines were also good. Meal overall was excellent although we thought a little on the pricy side. Recommended.

“Lovely Spanish restaurant”

Reviewed 3 December 2013 We eat at Casa Toni twice in the last week of November. This is a really lovely restaurant with a display cabinet of their fresh produce as you enter. Toni and his staff are passionate about their food and take delight in showing what they have today and talking you through the meal. We found that the best approach was to forget the menu and let Toni tell us what to have. We noticed that the other (all spanish) diners seemed to do the same and we were certainly not disappointed.

The Union Jack Avenida de Amettla del Mar, Benidorm

“All the sport”

Reviewed 6 December 2013 Popped in here several times when we stayed at the gemelos 22 for a drink and a couple of meals and was all good. The sport channels available catered for everyone. If you requested a certain channel they quickly obliged on one of the many screens. Watched the Froch fight and several others on that card and must have had a good night as i cannot remember leaving. Cheers for hospitality..Great stuff !!!

“Fab ”

Reviewed 5 December 2013 We eat her 4 breakfast was very good and meet a very nice lady called jan she was very help full wood go back just to c her keep up the good work

“Brilliant bar”

Reviewed 2 December 2013 visited the union jack while on holiday in November 2013, fantastic bar, couldn’t fault it at all. drinks reasonable price, hot choc is the best hot choc I have ever tried. all staff friendly and easy to get on with, they make you feel really welcome. They show football matches here which is always a bonus. will defiantly visit this bar again on my next visit to benidorm!

“Best English Breakfast!”

Reviewed 22 November 2013 Apart from the most handsome of English breakfasts -fantastic friendly staff and cracking tea....all accompanied with MTV, sports and WIFI. Great place.

The reviews are the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of VISTA COSTA BLANCA SL.

Weekly updates of what the people say

who have been here on holiday.

Have your say. Write to us at:

buzz@vistacostablanca.com 20


Shopping & Style

buzz@vistacostablanca.com

World’s First Daily Disposable Flat Pack Contact Lens Arrives in Spain

Contact wearers can now benefit from increased comfort and convenience, thanks to a revolutionary new type of contact lenses available exclusively at Specsavers. Specsavers has more than 1,650 stores throughout the UK, Ireland, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and they currently have eight of these stores located in Spain.

´Easyvision Magic´ contact lenses are the world’s first flat-pack lenses, they provide the simplest and most hygienic contact lens packaging designed to

date, complimented with ultimate lens hydration for added comfort. The unique flat pack design also reduces the chance of inner surface contamination. When opened, the new pack presents the lens ready to be picked up. As well as the revolutionary pack design, key features include: • HEMA-GMA lens material meaning more moisture retention and a smaller contact angle. • CENTRAFORM (spin casting) manufacturing providing a smoother edge profile that helps reduce friction when the wearer blinks. • Aspherical design enables light rays to come together at the correct point for a sharper, clearer view. These lenses are available exclusively at the 8 Specsavers Opticas stores in Spain, Phil Morgan, Jorge Martinez and the rest of the fantastic team down at your local Specsavers have just celebrated their 2nd Anniversary and are continuing to supply local residents and visitors with expert and professional information and welcome

you to pop your head in for any extra information regarding the ´Easyvision Magic´ contact lenses which are available exclusively at the 8 Specsavers Opticas stores in Spain and wish to remind you of the 50% OFF promotion running until the end of December.

To find out more visit your local Specsavers team at Calle Gambo in the Old Town or call them on 965 859 577.

21


Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

MARGY´S BAR Christmas Menu

Glass of Cava on Arrival ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1) Margy’s Prawn Cocktail, served with a Brown Roll 2) Piping Hot Vegetable Soup, served with a Rustic Bread Roll 3) Teriyaki Beef Skewers, served with a Sweet Chilli Dip ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Cava Lemon Sorbet ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1) Poached Salmon with Bernaise Sauce 2) Wild Mushroom Risotto with Garlic Bread 3) Succulent Norfolk Turkey 4) Mustard & Honey Roasted Gammon 5) Aberdeen Roast Beef (OR Choose all three meats)

6) Three Bird Roast (Turkey, Chicken, Duck)

All served with Yorkshire Pudding, Sausage Meat Stuffing, Chipolatas in Bacon, Buttered Carrots, Sprouts, Cauliflower Cheese, Cabbage, Baby New Potatoes and Roasted Potatoes cooked in Duck Fat

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1) Homemade Sherry Trifle 2) Chocolate Fudge Cake with Baileys Cream 3) Traditional Christmas Pudding & Brandy Sauce 4) Three Flavours of Ice Cream ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Liqueur Coffee of your choice Plus a complimentary bottle of house wine per couple

€30 p.p

DON’T DELAY – BOOK TODAY NUMBERS ARE STRICTLY LIMITED Calle Mirador,1 Benidorm

672 563 329

MAGIC

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C/Lepanto (was The Village Pub) Benidorm 966 830 772


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

Christmas Dinner

23


Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

la nucia

Euro Cars Avda. Acacias 2, 966 873 860. Free tank of fuel with every car sale. Cheap Tyres CV70 Calle Urruguay 27. Opposite Masymas. 965 063 062. Free brake check 50% off wiper blades fitted free while you wait. Qali Vet Next to Roundabout No. 3 on the CV70, opposite BP Garage 966 873 658. 12% off Rabies Vaccinations. Gambrinus Cervaceria CV70 URB Pinar de Galaita 17, La Nucia 96 687 5725 Eco Tienda de Salud Av Marina Baixa 39. 03530 La Nucia Alicante. 96 689 59 14, 693 719 300. In front of Hostal Sunami Zdenka 10% OFF Nails. Av Coloma 1 – Plaza del Sol,40 MAYRA Indian Cuisine C/ Cardenera, 4. La Nucía. 965 873 935. 10% discount a la carte menu. Abdul Restaurant - Colama 12, Plaza Del Sol La Nucia CV70 - Vista Card holders get 5% discount off the bill.

BT Spain unlimitedbroadband €19.90 /month

Free calls to Spanish landlines

Calls to UK & Western European landlines only 3.2 cents/ minute. Technical support and customer care in English

Free wifi router

No fees for switching from another provider and keep same number. For further information/conditions or to sign up please reply to this email or call:

965 857 300

Charity

Indian FeasT 18th December

EMAUS Charity Christmas Event Enjoy a fabulous Indian Feast and help raise money Mayra Indian Cuisine La Nucia - 1 HELP THE CHILDREN OF EMAUS THIS CHRISTMAS BOOK YOUR TABLE TODAY CALL US 673652340

Meal and Drink - 15€ per person 5€ will be donated to EMAUS Choice of Curries served with rice, nan bread and vegetables followed by dessert or coffee.

24


buzz@vistacostablanca.com The traditional Christmas window dressing competition is back! This will be the 12th edition of the competition where shop and business owners compete to produce the best decorated window shop displays for the holiday season in La Nucia. The deadline for registration is Friday, December 13th.

La Nucia Christmas Window Dressing Competition Returns

All shops, catering establishments and professionals interested in participating in the contest must register at the Information Department of the City of La Nucia , or call 966 895 827. The contestants will be assessed on their window decorating skills taking into consideration creativity, originality and use of Christmas ideas elements The contest will close on 23 December and there will be a trophy for 1st place, then certificates for 2nd and 3rd place. Participant’s establishments should be decorated for viewing from Monday December 16 until January 7, 2014 so there’s plenty of time to get a good look at some fantastic shop displays!

ALFAZ FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE

With 2 lots of Fixtures going into this Weeks Fantasy and the Christmas fixtures coming up December is going to be a crucial Month for the Fantasy and the Premier League. Kim's Team Ginger United have had their lead at the top of the Fantasy League cut to only 27 points by the inform Junior Team Abby's Brigade who moved up 9 places to 2nd spot. Eric's Gluepot Mahou Men are 3rd and stay in contention along with Steve's Britannia Foods F.C. Down at the foot of the Table Rachel & Kim's Team El.Nui Baddies have finally climbed off the bottom spot thanks to their chief Baddie Liverpool's Luis Suarez who scored a remarkable 37 points in Liverpool's 2 games. Ben's Boys have replaced them and are 12 points behind. Abby's Brigade are racing away with our Junior League having taken a 54 point lead over Rocky's Mini Spurs. Ben's Boys are rooted at the bottom of this League and are 79 points adrift of Jack's Bubble Jack 8 F.C. No changes at the top of our Mark Carter Ladies Section where Kim's Ginger United have been at the Summit now for 9 Weeks out of a possible 14. Closing in on her at the top his her good friend Rachel whose Team El.Nui F.C. have moved to within striking distance. Angies Blues and Ann's Golden Girls are in 3rd & 4th place.Rachel & Kim's other Team El.Nui Baddies are still at the bottom even though they top scored in this Section with 61 points which means they have qualified for a stake on our Cellar Bar Cert Tip selected by Ian Charman who picked a winner early in the Season for Kim(can lightening strike twice). The Golden Boot League sponsored by Leonard Knowles Construction is looking like a one horse race as Abby's Brigade have taken a massive 89 point lead over Jimmy's Team Simple.It's difficult to say in this newly formed

Sponsoredbyby sponsored

League whether they can be caught or not with defenders able to score 10 points or lose 10 points by scoring an Own Goal as did 6 players did this Week. Debuchy(Newcastle) Pantilimon(Man City)Demel & O'Brien(West Ham) Skrtel(Liverpool) and O'Shea(Sunderland) were all deducted 10 points in this Section. 3 Teams go into our Premier Imports Draw for a fine case of Wine at the end of the Month and they our 2 highest scoring Teams Abby's Brigade and Billy's Team The Unpronouceables 2 with a score 79 points highest so far this Season and our lowest scoring team which was Paul's Djemba Djemba who only managed 3 points when the average score was 30. Our new sponsor for Manager of the Month for December is Wyn at Wyndhams in Albir who provide fabulous Daily Specials at reasonable prices.The early contenders with 1 week gone are Billy's team The Unpronouceables & Abby's Brigade who both have a narrow 5 point advantage over Baldy Steve 's Roustabout. Ian's Team We will be Second are in 4th place followed by El.Nui Baddies. It's no coincidence they all have that naughty boy Suarez in their team. Rafters & Kate's super Breakfast for 2 goes to Billy's Team The Unpronouceables who moved up 73 places to No 44. Enjoy Billy. The K.O.Cup Competition saw 18 Lady Managers & 3 Junior Managers through to the next Round which takes place in January on the 3rd round of the F.A.Cup Weekend. The Draw for the next Round is up on our website which is www.alfazffl.com along with all the Results and League Tables meanwhile if you can't access a computer why not pop into one of our Bars which display all the information on their Notice Boards in Moraira Ticch's Bar, in Albir The Local & Hepburns and in Alfaz the El.Nui.

U3A Marina Baixa in the December Sunshine

INTERNATIONAL CHOIR FESTIVAL WEDNESDAY 26 DECEMBER 6PM AT LA CASA DE CULTURA DE ALFÀS DEL PI ORGANIZES: ICAS MARENOSTRUM TO BENEFIT:

SPANISH ASSOCIATION AGAINST CANCER, ALFAZ

- CHORUS OF FINESTRAT INTERNATIONAL CHORUS U3A (CALPE) -SINGGRUPPE JÁVEA

Tuesday afternoon was a very pleasant 17 degrees as we held our monthly "PICNIC" overlooking the beautiful Amadorio in Orcheta. There was a Christmas spirit in the air with chocolates being shared. This photo shows our Secretary Joan Flint enjoying a laugh with her husband Bill. The next Picnic will be on Tuesday 14th January at the Scandinavian Park in Alfaz del Pi at 1.30 pm - if you have not already been out with your U3A picnic group, please come along and join us. Many of the U3A Groups are having a Christmas break and full details can be found on the website www.u3amarinabaixa.com The next General meeting (always on the 4th Monday monthly - apart from December) will be the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING on 27th January 2014. This particular meeting will be held at the Casa de Cultura, Alfaz del Pi in order to accommodate the larger numbers. Membership remains at €12 for the year. Please put your money in an envelope showing your membership number and name. Your membership card will be your receipt. Doors open at 9.30 am. There is a committee vote this year so your attendance is important. A warm welcome awaits new members and visitors. If you do not have internet access and need more information please telephone our secretary Joan Flint on 96 586 1226 or 677 721 902.

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Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

Your weekly Horoscope ARIES

This is a weird week for you, and Monday and Tuesday are atypical. Nevertheless, they have some typical Monday and Tuesday traits: slow, quiet, unclear. Nothing really happens until Wednesday, which is a whirling fireball of activity and light. Thursday is the same. Expect lots of people, lots of noise, small adventures, sudden discoveries and the like. Friday and Saturday are more staid - you’re focused on money and how much of it you have or don’t have. Sunday, however, is marked by flirting and ease.

CANCER

You have no head for details on Monday and Tuesday. In fact, it kind of feels like your brain has turned into something resembling scrambled egg. Chances are high that you’ll say something very pedestrian and someone will wildly misunderstand it. Wednesday and Thursday are challenging in the communication department as well. What’s up? It’s weird! Stick to the facts, speak carefully and avoid the easily misunderstood issue of emotions at all costs. Do this at least until Friday or Saturday. A party appears at the end of the week, and it will be entirely pleasant, or even inspiring.

LIBRA

As much as the world at large wants you to focus on material wealth, the start of the week is a great time to focus on anything not nearly as concrete. The color of the sky, the sound of birds calling, a random -and rare- splash of sun. It’s a beautiful thing! Then, turn your attention from the natural world to humanity and focus on people in the middle of the week. Everything else will take care of itself. Friday and Saturday, indulgence is in the stars, but watch out. You run the risk of going overboard, and regretting it on Sunday.

CAPRICORN

Giving a card to someone at the start of the week may mean a lot more to them than giving a bouquet of flowers would. You have a talent for expressing yourself in writing, and someone’s in the mood to be the subject of that expression. Wednesday and Thursday, you find yourself oddly worried and you’re clinging to the present with all of your might. Change is going to happen, so let it. Friday and Saturday are good, happy days. If you can spend the weekend in nature somewhere, that would be fantastic for you.

TAURUS

Take the opportunity, on Monday and Tuesday, to consider your goals. If at all possible, the consideration of your goals is a conversation you should have with someone else who is also re-assessing their priorities. Wednesday and Thursday, you’re plagued by indecision and a weird desire to shop (which is the last thing you should do), but Friday and Saturday find you feeling better than you have in a while. Sunday is crazy in a great way.

LEO

Spirits -and tensions- are high on Monday, and someone might say something in another room that sounds to you like something else. That could cause you to respond badly. You might even fly off the handle. It’s in the stars. Forewarned is forearmed. Tuesday is the same way. You aren’t yourself until Wednesday and Thursday, when, true to form, you’re able to see everyone for their personal strengths, and you can have a good time anywhere. Friday and Saturday, your plans for an upcoming celebration are taking shape and you’re starting to feel a bit glamorous. A tea party figures in on Sunday.

SCORPIO

It’s no wonder that your mind is a loose collection of images and feelings at the start of the week -the dreamy quality of the season does that. You have a hard time separating real life and fantasy at this time, which isn’t a bad thing. It could become bad, however, in the middle of the week, when you have some serious things to get done. Going for a jog might wake you up a bit to physical reality. Toward the end of the week (Friday and Saturday especially), you will likely go head-to-head with someone over something you don’t consider a big deal. It’s possible that circumstances beyond your control are stressing other people out.

AQUARIUS

Well, you’re out of money. That’s your first thought as you begin thinking about the rest of the week. That’s okay. Everyone else is out of money, too. (Well, not everyone. If you need to borrow some, don’t feel bad about asking.) Wednesday and Thursday are brilliant illustrations of all that life has to offer that isn’t related to money whatsoever. You feel freer than you have in a while. Paradoxically, you feel more connected to others. Friday and Saturday find you bogged down for various reasons, but on Sunday you have someone to kiss -and kiss you will.

GEMINI

You spend the first part of the week feeling thrown off - or maybe just in an abstract state of mind. Whatever the source, it’s a great time for thinking about your future and making personal decisions you might not share right away with others; some alone time is probably in the stars. Nevertheless, Wednesday and Thursday your friends would love to know what you’re thinking, and talking about it might feel very good. Friday and Saturday you get a flurry of correspondence from loved ones. Or you send some. Communication is a major theme on Sunday, too.

VIRGO

The best thing you can give people on Monday and Tuesday isn’t gifts or money or anything material, but total respect. Provide them with all the space they need and all the sympathy you’d want. The urge to be critical comes from a good place, but it inevitably comes out sounding sour and dark. The same holds true Wednesday and Thursday, when you literally won’t have anything to give people except your respect (resources will be tight). Friday and Saturday see a loosening of the cosmic purse strings. On Sunday, in a social situation, put your energy toward communicating well.

SAGITTARIUS

You’ve been hitting your wallet pretty hard lately and it may mean you haven’t a penny in your pocket at the start of the week. It happens to the best of us, but that doesn’t make it any less annoying. Plus, you’re in a serious looking-back-on-your-life mode, which also happens to everyone. By the middle of the week, you are fully focused on the future: You’re having fun thinking about all the stuff you want to get done in the coming weeks. Romance enlivens Thursday, but Friday and Saturday are almost entirely filled with tasks -things you need to get done so you can have a great week next week. Expect a philosophical Sunday.

PISCES

The beginning of the week kicks off well. If you’re not being pampered by those in your life, take the time to do so yourself. Really get into it -or get your engines going on a new creative project. On Tuesday, you have energy to burn. Wednesday and Thursday are all over the place and confusion is imbuing your outlook with crazy shades of grey. Friday and Saturday, sending cards to friends and family gives order to your thoughts. On Sunday, if you don’t feel like leaving the house, by all means, don’t.

POWER SUDOKU CROSSWORD Across 1 Experience a strong urge to travel (4,5,4) 8 Abel (anag) (4) 9 Act honestly (4,4) 10 Blowfly (10) 12 Armed robber (6) 14 Christian sabbath (6) 15 All things considered (2,3,5) 19 Absolute nonsense (8) 20 Type of 17’s coat colouring (4) 21 Perk (6,7) Down 2 Signal that danger is past (3-5) 3 Dodge (5) 4 Highest (7) 5 Playing card (5) 6 Rugby Union team (7) 7 Harmful (4) 11 Capital of Sardinia (8) 13 Commissionaire (7) 14 Type of 17 — the lies (anag) (7) 16 Abrupt (5) 17 Domesticated animal (5) 18 Fly high (4)

26


buzz@vistacostablanca.com

Welcome to ALBIR

PRESENTATION IN SPAIN

Olive oil faro del Albir (albir lighthouse)

The extra virgin olive oil Albir lighthouse was introduced internationally in SHANGHAI-CHINA last November, Wednesday 11th December was presented by the Mayor of Alfaz del Pi D. Vicente Arques and businessman D. Antonio Alcaraz on Frax Foundation, the room provided for the occasion stay completely filled by journalists and guests. Then there was a breakfast where attendees could taste the oil Albir lighthouse.

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27


Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

Health&Family It’s all you need for a great read.

Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) If your school aged child is still wetting the bed at night, you are not alone.1-7 five year olds and 1-20 ten year olds are not dry at night. Although this can be very distressing for the child and involve lots of extra laundry for parents, it is rarely a serious problem. The reasons for bedwetting include: -Family history of the condition -A small bladder -A.D.H (anti-diuretic hormone) imbalance -Urine infections -Constipation -Emotional upset -Kidney problems Under the age of 7 treatment measures for bedwetting are not advised although it is wise to have your child checked to make sure that there is no physical problem. Over this age, you may wish to use reward systems for dry nights, alarms which go off when moisture is sensed (this helps to get the child in habit of waking when the bladder is full,) or medication which reduces the amount if urine produced at night. Do not restrict fluids during the day but always avoid caffeine containing drinks (most soft drinks, tea etc) Most people are aware these days that scolding the child will make the situation worse. Lifting the child before the parents go to bed is also unhelpful as the child needs to become used to waking when the

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bladder is full. Make bed time fun and toilet your little one last thing before they get into bed. Nappies may save on laundry but do nothing for his/ her motivation to stay dry. Instead protect the mattress and in the case of older children let them help with stripping the bed. Always hide any feelings of frustration that you may have from the child as shame and guilt will also only serve to make the problem worse. It is useful for parents to be aware that medication can be used in the short term as well as for regular treatment to enable the child to go on school trips sleepovers etc thus preventing him/ her from being left out of all the fun. Bedwetting can be upsetting for children and parents. If this problem is affecting your lives see a Doctor.

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28

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29


sporting life

Issue 12 / 12 - 18 December

It’s all you need for a great read.

Fifa World Cup Draw England to play Italy

England will play Italy, Uruguay and Costa Rica in a tough Group D at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. Roy Hodgson's men open their campaign against Italy in the Amazonian city of Manaus on 15 June, England then take on Uruguay on 19 June and play Costa Rica five days later. England’s first game was originally scheduled for 02:00 BST, but following consultation and pressure from broadcasters including the BBC and ITV, FIFA moved the kick off as one of seven changes to the schedule. The decision, which means the game on 12 June will now kick off at 6pm local time – 11pm in the UK – may please England fans back home but will increase concerns about the effect of the conditions on the national team's players. Roy Hodgson had said after Friday's draw that he would prefer it if the match was not brought forward and had been concerned about the heat in the Amazonian city, which has average temperatures of 33 degrees in June and humidity of 80% or more even in the evening.

3pm Kick off Restriction Al Jazeera Sport have announced they are to introduce a new set top box in January in a bid to restore live coverage of all English Premier League games to fans in the Middle East and North Africa. The Qatari broadcaster’s coverage has been limited since November 27th due to a sanction imposed by the Premier League in an attempt to counter illegal transmissions of Al Jazeera Sport in the UK. Al Jazeera released the following statement: “At Al Jazeera Sport we take piracy very seriously because it has an impact on so many people, including our subscribers, It is not something that only affects Al Jazeera Sport but impacts all broadcasters

the Premier League in order to tackle piracy of our channel and this has led to the recent decision to reduce the number of Premier League games that we show on a Saturday. We hope that this cooperation will produce results as soon as possible, which may allow us to resume our normal schedule of games.” However, with the new box not released until the New Year, it means fans are likely to face more woe throughout a busy festive period which features five match days from now until January 1.

Good Week

´Suarez Special´

“Luis Suarez is probably the most naturally gifted footballer to ever play for Liverpool” says Jamie Carragher. The Uruguayan striker has been in sensational form this season, scoring 14 goals in 10 Premier League appearances and has the best minutes-per-goal ratio in the top five European leagues. Suarez is currently two goals ahead of Sergio Aguero in the race to finish as the Premier League’s top scorer this season, despite missing the first six games of the campaign through suspension.

bad week

More Moyes Misery

The Sky Sports pundit says David Moyes should be more concerned about winning football matches than championships after losing 1-0 at home to both Everton and Newcastle; the first time in 11 years they have lost back-to-back games at Old Trafford. Saturday’s defeat was their third in the Premier League this season - they were also beaten 2-1 by West Brom in September - and they now trail table-toppers Arsenal by 13 points.

30 around the globe. We are working very closely with


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THE bell fruits

pool league

Classification

EX-PATS DIVISION 1 SERENAS A YORKSHIRE P2 A NEPTUNES IBROX T´KAFFEETJE

9-1 JUKEBOX B p-p GRILL HOUSE 1-9 ROCKSTAR 5-5 JOLLY SAILOR 9-1 SERENAS B

DIVISION 1 IBROX SERENAS A ROCKSTAR A T KAFFEETJE GRILL HOUSE JOLLY SAILOR NEPTUNES JUKEBOX B YORKSHIRE P2 A SERENAS B

P 10 10 10 10 9 10 10 10 9 10

DIVISION 2 YORKSHIRE P2 B PEPPERMILL TARTAN BAR PIG N WHISTLE

5-5 8-2 8-2 3-7

DIVISION 2 BEATLES BAR JUKEBOX A TARTAN BAR PEPPERMILL PIG N WHISTLE ROCKSTAR B YORKSHIRE P2 B VINCENTS

P W D 7 3 4 7 3 2 6 3 2 7 3 2 7 3 0 7 3 0 8 2 4 7 1 0

W 8 6 5 4 4 3 3 3 2 2

D 2 1 2 2 1 3 3 3 1 1

L F A 0 67 33 3 58 42 3 54 46 4 50 50 4 48 42 4 47 53 4 46 54 4 48 52 6 35 55 7 40 60

PTS 26 19 17 14 13 12 12 12 7 7

THE BEATLES BAR ROCKSTAR B VINCENTS YORKSHIRE P2 B L 0 2 1 2 4 4 2 6

F A 43 27 37 33 34 26 36 34 33 37 30 38 43 37 22 48

Club Pld Pts 1 Arsenal 15 35 2 Liverpool 15 30 3 Chelsea 15 30 4 Man City 15 29 5 Everton 15 28 6 Spurs 15 27 7 Newcastle 15 26 8 Southampton 15 23 9 Man Utd 15 22 10 Swansea 15 19 11 Aston Villa 15 19 12 Hull 15 18 13 Stoke 15 17 14 Norwich 15 17 15 West Brom 15 15 16 Cardiff 15 14 17 West Ham 15 13 18 Fulham 15 13 19 Crystal Palace 15 13 20 Sunderland 15 8

PTS 13 11 11 11 9 9 10 3

Ballon d'Or 2013

classification CLUB PLD GD PTS 1 Celtic 14 23 36 2 Inverness CT 14 10 29 3 Dundee United 15 18 26 4 Aberdeen 15 8 26 5 Motherwell 15 -7 25 6 St Johnstone 15 5 21 7 Hibernian 15 -5 17 8 St Mirren 14 -7 16 9 Partick Thistle 15 -12 14 10 Kilmarnock 15 -8 12 11 Ross County 14 -13 11 12 Hearts 15 -12 -3

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Cristiano Ronaldo Lionel Messi Franck Ribery

World Cup groups Group A: Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon. Group B: Spain, Netherlands, Chile, Australia. Group C: Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan. Group D: Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy. Group E : Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras. Group F: Argentina, Bosnia-Hercegovina, Iran, Nigeria. Group G: Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA.

4/11 9/4 14/1

tv sports Thursday 12th December

14:30 Golf - Nelson Mandela Championship 19:00 UEFA Europa League - St Gallen v Swansea 19:00 UEFA Europa League - NK Maribor v Wigan 21:05 UEFA Europa League - Tottenham v Anzhi

Friday 13th December

11:00 Golf - Nelson Mandela Championship 21:00 World Darts Championship

Saturday 14th December

11:30 Golf - Nelson Mandela Championship 13:15 Championship - Leicester v Burnley 13:45 Premier League - Man City v Arsenal 16:30 Barclays Premier League - Hull v Stoke 16:30 League One - Stenhousemuir v Rangers

Sunday 15th December

14:30 Premier League - Aston Villa v Man Utd 15:00 Premier League - Tottenham v Liverpool

Tuesday 17th December

20:45 Capital One Cup - Sunderland v Chelsea 20:45 FA Cup - Mansfield vs Oldham

Wednesday 18th December 20:45 Carling Cup - Stoke vs Man Utd

Sky Sports HD4 ITV 4 BT Sport 1/HD ITV 4 Sky Sports HD4 Sky Sports 1 Sky Sports HD4 Sky Sports HD1 BT Sport 1HD Sky Sports HD1 BT Sport 1HD Sky Sports HD1 Sky Sports HD1 Sky Sports 1 BT Sport 1HD Sky Sports HD1

Group H: Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea.

where to watch all your favourite sport Old Town Benidorm: Pig n Whistle / Margys Bar C/Mirador Benidorm Benidorm New Town: The Sun Pub - Calle Lepanto / Celtic Tavern. - C/ Ibiza / Magic Restaurant C/ Ibiza / Bobbys Bar - C/Ibiza / The Last Stop - C/Gerona / Yorkshire Pride 1 - C/Gerona / Ruta 54 - Calle Gerona / Wooky Hollow 1 - C/ Gerona Levante Beach: Guinness Bar Beach Terrace Rincon de Loix: Vincent's Corner Pubs / The White Horse. Avd de Estocolmo / Rachel's Bar - Av de Severo Ochoa / Yorkshire Pride II - C/ Londres Yorkshire Pride III - Av de Severo Ochoa / Stretford End - C/ Londres / The Jukebox. Avd. Roma ALFAZ DEL PI: Bar El Níu

31


Leonardo DiCaprio & Venturi Automobiles team-up to launch tenth and final Formula E team many famous city centres, I am expecting a lot of spectators, plenty of fun and some sparks flying as the competition heats up.'

What is Formula E?

Venturi Automobiles have announced a joint venture with award-winning actor and environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio to enter a team in the new FIA Formula E Championship. Based in Monaco, the new Venturi Grand Prix Formula E Team has been co-founded by DiCaprio and Gildo Pallanca Pastor, founder of pioneering EV manufacturer Venturi Automobiles. “The future of our planet depends on our ability to embrace fuel-efficient, clean-energy vehicles,” DiCaprio said. “Venturi Grand Prix has shown tremendous foresight in their decision to create an environmentally friendly racing team, and I am happy to be a part of this effort.”

VIRGIN RACING RETURN

Last week Sir Richard Branson announced his entry back into motor racing as part of the new Formula E electric car championship. The entrepreneur is putting a team together to take part in the inaugural 10-race championship Sir Richard said: 'The launch of the Formula E Championship is exciting news for racing fans but also for those that believe in developing the great electric cars of the future. 'The need to create fast, dependable and durable race cars will help to accelerate the sector and showcase electric cars to a large global audience. 'With races around

Formula E is a new FIA championship featuring Formula cars powered exclusively by electric energy. It represents a vision for the future of the motor industry over the coming decades, serving as a framework for research and development around the electric vehicle, accelerating general interest in these cars and promoting sustainability. The Championship centres around three core values of Energy, Environment and Entertainment and is a fusion of engineering, technology, sport, science, design, music and entertainment - all combining to drive the change towards an electric future. Formula E is described as a fully digital sport that aims to improve the image of electric cars and spark innovation in the industry. A computer game will allow people to take part in each race in real-time and fans will be able to give their favourite driver a speed boost by voting through a smart phone app during the race.

Event Format

Commencing in September 2014 through to June 2015, the Championship will compete in the heart of 10 of the world's leading cities racing around their iconic landmarks, starting in Beijing next September and ending in London in June The 2014/2015 FIA Formula E Championship, the world's first fully-electric racing series, will be contested over 10 rounds taking place on street circuits around the globe. All rounds will be one-day events with practice, qualifying and the race taking place in a single day in order to reduce costs and minimise disruption to the host city.

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