Celebrity Mallorca Issue 118

CELEBRITY MALLORCA MAGAZINE

2,95€ | ISSUE 118

RICHARD BRANSON Back at Son Bunyola!

HATS & HORSES Off to a galloping start in Mallorca

RHOC’S HANNA & MARTIN TIE THE KNOT Exclusive honeymoon pictures

EVOLUTION! MALLORCA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL See who scooped a prize inside

Q&A WITH GEORGE McCRAE Still rocking his number one song ACCESS ALL AREAS | SEEN@ CELEBRITIES IN MALLORCA I SPORTS | HOMES & PROPERTY

The magical hotel by Grupo Cappuccino BOOKINGS: www.hotelmama.es +34 871 037 437

Contents Publisher: Donna Suarez Tel. +34 602 531 676 email: donna@celebritymallorca.es

Celebrity

Editor: Matthew Cull Tel. +34 684 169 261 email: matthew@celebritymallorca.es

Access All Areas with Larrick Ebanks

Music & Events Editor: Larrick Ebanks Tel. +34 664 033 490 email: larrick@celebritymallorca.es

Spanish Christmas in Mallorca

Richard Branson - Back in Son Bunyola RHOC Hanna Miraftab and Dr Martin Kinsella tie the knot George McCrae and The Brand New Heavies

Season Seen@

Rafa Nadal, Mads Nikkelsen, Tom Zanetti and more

Feature Writer: Ben Mulvey Tel. +34 605 321 289 email: ben@celebritymallorca.es

Events

Soller Writer: ‘Soller Shirley’ Roberts Tel. +34 671 422294 sollershirley@celebritymallorca.es

Lions Club Gala Dinner

Advertising Executive: Lisa Murmann Tel. +34 691 150 008 email: lisa@celebritymallorca.es

Hola in One - Mark Showler

Advertising Executive: Aydin Israel Tel. +34 652 44 77 12 email: aydin@celebritymallorca.es Events Executive: Ayesha Wood Tel. +34 669 177 933 email: ayesha@celebritymallorca.es Event Photographer: Vicki McLeod Tel. +34 649 090 886 email: ads@celebritymallorca.es Graphic Designer: Stefan Arens email: ads@celebritymallorca.es Contact us: Tel. +34 635 691 804 email: ads@celebritymallorca.es Contributing Writers: Hamish Goddard, Amanda Butler, Alex Fitzpatrick, Angela Sara West

Hats and Horses in Mallorca Real Estates United Joy Ron Red Carpet Event Mallorca International Film Festival

Sports Real Mallorca with Alex Fitzpatrick Tennis - The Mallorca Championships

Boat, Bikes & Automobiles Update by Hamish Goddard

Celebrity Mallorca Property Pages Property Market Update by Amanda Butler

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CELEBRITY

Leonardo DiCaprio

Photos: Courtesy of Virgin Limited Edition

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CELEBRITY

Sir Richard Branson Back at Son Bunyola!

Britain’s best-known entrepreneur talks to Angela Sara West about his long-standing love affair with Mallorca and how he adores his favourite retreat here so much, he bought it twice!

By Angela Sara West

Planes, trains and Virgin mobiles… with outstanding resorts around the globe, too, this billionaire businessman has transformed the world’s landscapes and skies with his boundless brand. In March 2000, multi-award-winning Richard was knighted by Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace for ‘services to entrepreneurship’.

Two years later, he was named in the BBC’s poll of the 100 Greatest Britons and has also been ranked in Time magazine’s ‘Top 100 Most Influential People in the World’.

Having clocked up five decades in business, Virgin’s expansion has seen him successfully diversify in sectors from health care to health clubs and cruise ships to space ships. His phenomenally-fruitful, worldrenowned brand has given us everything from music and mobiles, comics and gyms, to high-speed trains and transatlantic travel.

With 60 Virgin companies worldwide, Richard now employs around 71,000 people in 35 countries around the globe.

With his unrivalled taste for adventure, there have been ballooning expeditions and world record-breaking accomplishments galore, including clinching the fastest-ever Atlantic Ocean crossing. In fact, he’s entered the Guinness Book of Records no fewer than seven times! The Virgin tycoon has also starred (usually as himself!) in blockbusters Casino Royale, Around the World in 80 Days and Superman Returns, along with small-screen series The Simpsons, Friends, Only Fools And Horses and Baywatch.

Barefoot luxury at Branson’s Necker Island home Offscreen, the white-sand beaches of Necker Island, lapped by turquoise water and stunning views of neighbouring islands, are where this adventurous entrepreneur usually resides…

A young 29-year-old Richard bought his much-loved Caribbean retreat in the British

Photo by Owen Billcliffe

Virgin Islands in 1978 to impress his future wife, Joan, whom he later married there.

Despite its $5m price tag, he initially offered a cheeky $100,000 for the uninhabited 74acre isle. Less than impressed, the seller (British aristocrat, Lord Cobham) threw Richard off the island to find his own way home which, incidentally, is how his brainwave for Virgin Airways (later Virgin Atlantic) came about!

A year later, he paid a desperate-to-sell Lord Cobham $180,000, under the condition that Richard would build a resort there, marking the start of his luxury property portfolio, Virgin Limited Edition. The business mogul sold his UK properties, including his Oxfordshire estate and London home, to make the move to his new main residence in 2013. “I left Britain for my love of the beautiful British Virgin Islands and, in particular, Necker Island,” says Richard.

“We’ve built our home there, a place where my family and I are able to truly relax. I’m so inspired by this idyllic island paradise’s beauty.”

Having transformed it into a multi-millionpound luxury resort, with a 10-bedroom villa overlooking the beach, other luxury residences, private pools, tennis courts and a helipad, Necker is now one of the most exclusive resorts in the world… The private island paradise is also a playground for Richard’s large and lucky group of famous

friends and showbiz pals. He describes his party island as ”a wonderful magnet to attract wonderfully-interesting people,” and has played host to a ‘who’s who’ of Hollywood heavyweights, rock stars, royals and expresidents there, including Robert De Niro, Demi Moore, Harrison Ford, Kate Moss, Mick Jagger, George Michael, Mariah Carey, Princess Diana (with Princes William and Harry in tow), The Duchess of Cambridge, Nelson Mandela and Barack and Michelle Obama. One Direction’s Harry Styles once famously shared a hot tub with the Virgin boss at the sensational sanctuary, while the tennis-loving host regularly invites extennis champ, Boris Becker, to participate in the ‘Necker Cup’.

Planes, flames & hurricanes When not busy schmoozing or setting sail on his luxury catamaran, the Necker Belle, Richard rides around on a golf buggy or his electric bike, taking in the natural wonders such as flamingos and lemurs, along with the staggering views. But the business magnate’s magnificent abode has twice been devasted

by Mother Nature… The Great House was rebuilt following a fire caused by a lightning strike during Hurricane Irene in 2011, with actress Kate Winslet heroically rescuing Richard’s 90-year-old mother, Eve. “She was wondering when a director was going to shout CUT!,” says Richard. And he wasn’t exactly dressed for the occasion himself. “All we could do was run over to the house as fast as we could, stark naked!”

Necker reopened in 2013, 20 percent bigger and better. The Balinese-style home now came complete with hammocks, eight guest rooms and Jacuzzis, “Like the old house, but on steroids!” But the main house was left uninhabitable again after finding itself directly in the path of Category-5 Hurricane Irma when it hit in 2017. “We felt the full force of the strongest hurricane ever in the CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 5

CELEBRITY transformed into ultra-luxury available for exclusive hire.

villas,

“We opened villas Sa Punta de S’Aguila and Sa Terra Rotja in summer 2016, with Son Balagueret opening the following year. We usually stay in Sa Terra Rotja, our fourbedroom villa situated near the edge of the estate, but I’d be torn if I had to pick a favourite out of the three.”

Exposed beam ceilings, walkout balconies, sumptuous bedrooms, a formal dining room with a fireplace… Sa Terra seamlessly blends old and new with an elegant result.

Outside, a private terrace and pool overlook the sparkling Med, while a peaceful pebble beach is a mere stone’s throw away.

Photo by Owen Billcliffe

Atlantic Ocean,” explains Richard, who rode out the storm in his wine cellar. “Many of the buildings, and much of the vegetation, were destroyed or badly damaged.”

Mallorca beckoned… Back in business in Bunyola!

spectacular Son Bunyola, resulting in him selling up in 2002, selling his iconic La Residencia Hotel, a Mecca for A-listers, including Leonardo Caprio, Goldie Hawn and Michael Douglas, too.

Following a change of heart, and Richard’s realisation that he really missed Mallorca, he While his main residence is out of action, says he couldn’t resist when the opportunity Richard’s spoilt for choice for places to stay arose to buy Bunyola back lock stock for with his other properties around the world. around £11m in 2015. He plans to convert His privately-owned collection of awardthe tranquil estate into the very best ecowinning luxury hotels and retreats with resort in Europe. “Central to the estate is Virgin Limited Edition also includes a lodge a finca building dating back to the 1800s, in the Swiss Alps, a safari camp in Kenya, surrounded by vines, citrus fruit trees, and a kasbah in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. almonds and olive trees,” he reveals. “It’s “Whilst Necker Island is being rebuilt, I’ve absolutely beautiful and I look forward to had the pleasure of spending time at many seeing how plans progress!” of these properties,” he tells me. More Haute historic homes evocative of a home than a hotel, each unique retreat offers a “home-away-from- Part of a World Heritage site, the expansive home” feel. “I’ve tried to create the kind of estate sprawls over almost 700 acres places that I would never want to leave. I’ve and Richard cites numerous reasons for always run my homes like businesses, and choosing the area. “The northwest coast run all my businesses like homes.” has always been a location for which I have great fondness. It has so much to offer...

And Richard’s been enjoying a slice of unspoilt nature, picturesque villages, topSpanish life at his newly-renovated gated class restaurants and finca hotels and Mallorcan estate, Son Bunyola, between culture. The region is dominated by the Esporles and Banyalbufar on the northwest Tramuntana mountain range and its breathcoast, more than ever. “Son Bunyola is my taking scenery, and is home to some of the favourite Mallorcan retreat. I try to visit as most historical and picturesque towns on often as I can,” he says. the island. My son, Sam, even named his He’s had a long-standing love affair with daughter Eva-Deia, in honour of the village the largest of the Balearic islands. “Mallorca of Deià, which is one of the most beautiful has always held a special place in my heart, in the world.” since I first visited as a child.” But that love Overlooking 5km of breath-taking affair was marred with disputes with the coastline, the serene property comprises local authorities, who refused planning the historic Mallorquín manor house (the permission for the British businessman above-mentioned grand finca) plus three to build a luxury boutique hotel at his country houses, which Richard has recently 6 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Built in traditional Mallorcan style, with its original turret dating back to the 13th century, the three-bedroom abode with courtyard, Son Balagueret, simply oozes history, while terracotta-tiled, five-bedroom Sa Punta de S’Aguila is sympathetically-built into the landscape along a track above the coastline, affording panoramic mountain and ocean outlooks from the flower-lined terrace.

Each villa boasts a private pool plus a dedicated concierge service, via My Mallorca VIP, to attend to every wish’n’whim. “Not to mention stunning views!” adds Richard.

“A stay at Son Bunyola is not like any villa stay, and it is so much more than a place to rest your head! All guests are encouraged to treat the villas like their own home from the moment they arrive; we like to ensure our guests feel special and receive excellent customer service, and aim to create a truly unique experience.”

Glory days Historically, Son Bunyola was an important estate, producing its own olive oil and wine.

In restoring the land to its former glory, Richard has planted almond and citrus fruit trees and vines alongside the original ancient olive trees, dotting row-upon-row of crumbling terraces.

A few of the team working at the estate today lived in the finca as children in the 1970s and, with a strong ethos of giving back, the prolific philanthropist says Virgin Limited Edition’s recruiting policy is to hand back to surrounding communities by offering training and employment. “We recruit locally at Son Bunyola, and source food and wine from right here in the region.

We work hard to protect the beautiful landscape we’re so fortunate to occupy.

Our approach includes a commitment to

CELEBRITY responsible supply chain management, fair trade policies, ethical dealings with our employees and the local community, and, of course, the environment.”

Balearic playtime His favourite things to do on the island?

“That’s the beauty of Mallorca… there’s so much to do and something for everyone, even if it’s just picking a great sun lounger and sunbathing.”

The charismatic businessman’s worldrecord-breaking boat, Virgin Atlantic Challenger II, was found abandoned on the island a few years ago, after being sold to a sultan. As an experienced kite surfer, he holds world records in that sport, too. “I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie, so I must have a way to stay active and adventurous, and Mallorca is great for hiking and cycling. I’d also recommend setting sail and exploring the coastline of Tramuntana, where you’ll find some great spots for snorkelling and the chance to discover some hidden caves. With clear Mediterranean waters, the area is perfect for scuba diving and fishing excursions, too.”

When he’s not out and about, practising sports or embracing the island’s copious culture, there’s always his terrace for practising his other preferred pastimes of yoga and Tai Chi. Richard enjoys a good game of chess, too, and is something of an ace when it comes to tennis. Luckily, the court’s just a short lob away…

Expanding the property empire to infinity & beyond… Next stop? Space!

“There are few things I love more than travelling, discovering amazing locations and turning them into magical retreats for others to enjoy, too!” says Richard. So, what’s next for his ever-expanding property portfolio? Space travel has been his dream ever since watching the moon landings on TV, and he has described Virgin Galactic, the world’s first commercial space line, as being “the greatest adventure of all”. With trips to the moon in the pipeline, could he soon be building there, too? “There are still so many places to see and not enough time to do it in. I’ve been lucky enough to visit many wonderful countries around the globe…

But I’m very excited about the future of commercial space travel and what our team at Virgin Galactic is planning for our future astronauts!”

The magic of Mallorca There are zero plans for retirement, but when it’s time for time out, there’s always this stunning Spanish island, with its dramatic

scenery of verdant countryside against a backdrop of magnificent mountains and cobalt blue water.

“Mallorca is so special to me because it provides the perfect environment to relax, laugh, learn and love with my family,” Richard reveals. Eva-Deia now has a brother, Bluey, while Richard’s daughter, Holly, blessed him with twin grandchildren, Etta and Artie.

Now he has the grandkids, Richard says he enjoys being able to spend more time in a place that means a great deal to them all.

“My favourite memories are the most simple; sitting around the table talking, admiring the scenery and enjoying meals and good company. We’ve had a special bond with the island for several generations, and I’m sure it will go on for generations to come!”

Richard’s other properties around the world Virgin Limited Edition offers an awardwinning collection of unique retreats, chosen for their beautiful locations and magnificent surroundings, each with a sense of fun, style, luxury and exceptional personal service.

Here’s what Richard loves about his other luxury retreats in his extensive collection of properties around the world, which are all available to hire via Virgin Limited Edition: www.virginlimitededition.com Luxury tented safari camp, Mahali Mzuri in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, southwestern Kenya, has just been voted no. 11 in the Top 30 Resorts in Africa in the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry: “When you think of going on safari in Kenya, one of the first things that comes to mind is the ‘Great Migration’.

Words just can’t do justice to the majesty of this awe-inspiring spectacle,” he says.

Luxury Moroccan retreat, Kasbah Tamadot in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, was voted no. 14 in the Top 30 Hotels in Africa in the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and named the No. 1 Resort Hotel in North Africa and the Middle East in the Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards 2019 readers’ survey: “This magical place is perfect for rest and relaxation. I enjoy the fresh mountain air while wandering around our beautiful gardens and trekking through the High Atlas Mountains.”

The Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland: “From the moment I saw it. I knew this beautiful chalet in the Swiss Alps was destined to become my favourite mountain hideaway. I chose Verbier because it’s an amazing year-round

destination, offering world-class skiing, fabulous après-ski, and everything you could wish for in a summer escape! Paragliding, rock climbing, mountain biking... you name it! Since the grandchildren arrived, The Lodge has become even more special. It’s wonderful seeing them enjoying new experiences and exploring the great outdoors.”

Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyard in Franschhoek near Cape Town, South Africa, was named no. 18 in the Top 30 Hotels in Africa in the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards: “This truly is one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa, a country I’ve been a regular visitor to for many years. I always make a point of enjoying the fantastic wines and local hospitality.”

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sand next to Kruger National Park, South Africa, which was named number 13 in the Top 20 Resorts in South Africa in the 2019 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards: “Ulusaba holds a special place in both our hearts, and we always have a wonderful time when we visit. Just the thought of the African bush conjures up fascinating images of breath-taking wilderness, sunrise safaris and a retreat far away from the city. Here, your imagination becomes reality. We usually relax in the Cliff Lodge, which has sweeping panoramic views over the bush, where you can see the sunrise, sunset and the stars. One of our other favourite rooms is the romantic Treehouse, which overlooks a watering hole where you can watch herds of elephants and rhinos drinking in the pond, which is full of hippos and crocodiles. It’s not uncommon to see the Big Five on just one safari trip here!”

FACTBOX The villas at Son Bunyola - Sa Punta de S’Aguila, Sa Terra Rotja and Son Balagueret – are available for exclusive hire from April to October, and on request at any other time of year, including over the Christmas and New Year periods.

For further details, visit: www.virginlimitededition.com My Mallorca VIP concierge services: www.mymallorcavip.com Richard’s autobiography, Finding My Virginity, is published by Virgin Books and available from Amazon.

Find out more at www.virgin.com

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 7

ACCESS ALL AREAS

AAA

ACCESS ALL AREAS

by Larrick Ebanks: Music & Events Editor @larrickebanksofficial

GEORGE McCRAE STILL ROCKING HIS NUMBER ONE SONG The song has allowed George to remain active in an industry that takes no prisoners, and keeps him performing to the masses worldwide. ‘Rock Your Baby’ was written by, and for K.C and The Sunshine Band, but the key of the song was too high for K.C’s voice, so in stepped George McCrae with his effortless falsetto voice, and the rest, as they say is history. Nine studio albums later, and George is still on the circuit and still being appreciated by audiences across the globe.

It was a wonderful surprise to bump into the man responsible for a song associated with happy times from my childhood.

As soon as I saw George at the Star Media event held at the Bellver Castle, I could immediately hear his hit 70s song ‘Rock Your Baby’ playing loud and clear in my head.

My memory went back to the fairground days and queuing for the waltzers whilst that song was on repeat, heightening the excitement of what was to come.

8 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

George looks great and really hasn’t changed that much since his heyday. I asked him what his secret was and he just laughed. As we were chatting before his performance we realised we had a mutual music friend in common and decided to leave her a voice message, which instantly created a relaxed atmosphere and prompted me to ask George to be my AAA guest.

George McCrae is a music industry treasure and John Lennon once admitted that his number one Billboard song, ‘Whatever Gets You Thru The Night’ was inspired by ‘Rock Your Baby.’ Now you know.

ACCESS ALL AREAS

Q&A WITH GEORGE McCRAE 1. How did you get involved with music?

Since I was a child my parents loved music.

2. What was the music being played in your household as a child?

My father was always listening to Jazz and my mother would listen to classical and popular music.

3. What artists inspired you during your childhood?

Sam Cooke, Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Billy Eckstine, Arthur Prysock, Doris Day, Peggy Lee, Johnny Cash, The Platter, Muddy Waters and Little Willie John 4. You reside in the Netherlands. What’s the one thing you miss most about living in America?

My ethnic soul food - the kind mama used to make. Home cooking.

5. How would you describe yourself?

A very happy handsome, shy and debonair person.

6. What’s the great thing about having a hit song?

It improved my standard of living and enable me to travel around the world to spread joy, happiness and hope to people.

7. What was your initial reaction when

you heard that John Lennon had taken inspiration from the melody of ‘Rock Your Baby’ for his song ‘Whatever Gets You thru the Night’?

I felt honoured 8. How do you view the music industry today?

The music industry is very competitive and tough. Todays technology has made it so.

9. Coffee or Tea? Both, but not at the same time.

10.What’s your favourite food?

A nice T-bone Steak 11. What’s your favourite dessert?

Apple pie with vanilla ice cream 12. What’s your favorite pastime?

Listening to music.

13. What artists are you currently listening to?

Bob Marley, Ed Sheeran, Prince, Michael Jackson and Julio Iglesias.

14. What’s one of your favourite films?

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly starring Clint Eastwood.

15. What’s one of your favourite songs?

You Are So Beautiful 16. Which artist would you most like to collaborate with, dead or alive?

Ed Sheeran 17. What is your favourite George McCrae album and why?

I have no favorite album they are all unique with their own style, feelings, inspiration and interpretation.

18. What emoji do you use the most?

Smiley face 19. What’s the last thing you google searched?

This magazine, Celebrity Mallorca 20. Do you have any of your latest music you would like to mention?

Yes, I have an album on CD, LP and Blue - Ray format. The title is LOVE, and you can order or download it from Amazon.de and all other major online stores 21. What’s next for George McCrae?

I am starting to work on my new Album and to organise a world tour for year 2020/2021.

THE BRAND NEW HEAVIES The Brand New Heavies have a new album out, simply entitled TBNH. I messaged lead guitarist Simon Bartholomew who I’ve known a while, to do a quick Q&A, and at the same time give their latest project a plug. We all need some funk in our life, and I for one am slightly tired of the repetitive disposal sounds that seem to dominate commercial radio, making it almost impossible to escape at times.

This album features an array of recording artist. The original singer for TBNH N’dea Davenport makes three great vocal appearances on the songs ‘Getaway’ ‘Wired Up’ and the Mark Ronson collaboration ‘These Walls.’

Siedah Garrett makes a very welcome return with vocals in the songs It’s My Destiny’ and ‘Just Believe In You’.

There’s also a super funky semi instrumental called ‘The Funk Is Back’ in which Simon himself sings the chorus hooks, “ I think the funk is back, it never went away.” Well we are all certainly a lot happier that you funky bunch are back with some new sounds.

Simon Bartholomew Q&A: 1. If you hadn’t become a musician what do you think you’d be doing now?

Well I went to Art College and am still in interested in sculpture and painting. I see things in the world that look like Art to me. I’m collecting some recycling and plan to make something soon. That, or design toys for Kinder Eggs. They’ve gone downhill a bit ~ over simplified. Imagine getting something kids actually want to keep that isn’t plastic perhaps!?

2. What’s been your favourite place to perform?

Mainly places on Planet Earth ~ Everywhere is great, from Tokyo to Glasgow. It’s nice to touch the funky family wherever we go!

3 What’s an average day like for you?

Well, I get up, get dressed, put on my pin stripe suit and bowler hat and off I go on a crowded train at 7.30 a.m. Work all day in a bank, then get home about 7 have dinner and off to bed. Unlike those lazy musicians who get up, sometimes with their kids and take them to school, then think about music or do an interview or two while lounging in their pool drinking Champagne surrounded by models all day!

4. What is your favourite part about this line of work? Your least favourite?

Doing what I love! Playing music and getting heard and turning cats on. Breaking a string during a show makes me a little low !

5. What’s the best song you’ve ever released and why?

The best song is on the next LP! CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 9

NEWS & EVENTS

Photos: Vicki McLeod

Golden After Work Party at Portals Hills Boutique Hotel After successive promotions the team has an uphill battle ahead The Golden After Work Party at the Portals Hills Boutique Hotel featured a catwalk show organised by Tres Marias boutique in Palma in collaboration with the Mallorcan milliner Lorena Cuesta.

The event attracted a trendy crowd, including the Celebrity team, to enjoy drinks and fashion on the terrace.The beautiful reception, bar and pool areas of the hotel were graced with a red carpet and transformed into a catwalk for the evening. The funky beats and ambience came courtesy of IbizaGlobal Radio and the very dangerous cocktails were mixed by the Arlequin Cocktail Bar. The whole event was sponsored

by Rent Bull who parked their luxury sports cars outside of the hotel for the evening. For more info about the hotel visit https://www.portals-hills.com/

10 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

The Devil’s Horn Anna Nicholas launches her first book

By Ben Mulvey

Anna Nicholas, well-known British author and resident of Mallorca launched the first book in her gentle crime series that is set here on the is island. The Devil’s Horn was launched at the Sant Francesc Hotel where Anna was mingling with guests and signing copies of the book.

The Devil’s Horn introduces “a balanced, happy, female sleuth”, Isabel Flores that lives in a mountain village in the northwest of Mallorca.

Following the abduction of a British girl from a popular tourist beach, the murder of an elderly man in her village, and the emergence of a dangerous drug cartel, Isabel is forced to leave her job running her mother’s rental agency and return to her former job as a detective.

I was lucky enough to be given a signed copy of the book by Anna and I can say that it doesn’t disappoint and I read it in only a couple of sittings!

Be sure to pick up a copy of The Devil’s Horn which is available in shops, in kiosks and online for a truly thrilling read set on our wonderful island!

ESCORTED & PRIVATE TOURS | HONEYMOONS | SAFARIS CRUISING | WORLD-WIDE FLIGHTS | PRIVATE VILLAS CITY BREAKS | AROUND THE WORLD ITINERARIES

Tailor made luxury holidays I have over 35 years experience in travel agency, airlines, tour operations and hotel management. I use my knowledge and extensive contacts in the travel industry to offer my clients a personal, competitive and professional service. I would be delighted to help you plan your next holiday.

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CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 11

PEOPLE

Sarah Antwerpes - Truth Seeker Celebrity Magazine catches up with successful life coach and entrepreneur Sarah Antwerpes.

By Vicki McLeod

The lounge in the San Francesc boutique hotel in Palma is quiet, with squishy sofas that seem to hug you and not want to let you leave. As I sit down to interview internationally renowned life coach Sarah Antwerpes I realise that I may not want to get up again for quite a while. Sarah has a glow about her, a witty glint in her eye which is reflected in her playful but stylish dress sense. She has a lightness in her voice which makes me smile, and whilst her husband Jan orders us some coffee we start talking about absolutely everything from being “location independent”, motherhood, and love, to death, relationships and parties.

But, before I dive in, I have to backtrack a little, do you know what a “Life Coach” is or does? Ask around and you will get some wildly different answers, but let’s get it straight, they are not counsellors, therapists, psychiatrists or psychologists. The role of a life coach is to encourage and guide their clients on a range of professional and personal issues. Life coaching is distinct from giving advice, consulting, counselling, mentoring and administering therapy. You might engage a coach like Sarah to help you with specific professional projects, personal goals and transitions. Sarah in particular 12 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

specialises in working with businesswomen, female entrepreneurs and women who are in the public eye. Sarah works with a roster of “A list” clients from actors to supermodels who are in need of the same amount of help as the rest of us mere mortals. But she doesn’t “just” work with the mega famous, she also coaches mums, people who need clarity on burning issues in their lives and small business owners who are looking for the right way to grow. Some Celebrity readers may say having a coach is not necessary, why have a coach when a friend or a family member can do the same job?

Well, that person may well have their best intentions in mind for you, but can they objectively advise you, or will they just say what they think you want to hear? There is a quote from Persian philosopher Rumi,

“What you seek is seeking you”. If you think about this complex idea for a moment then you might find that there is truth in it, but it’s not quite as simple as just wishing for something you desire and it showing up on your doorstep, tah dah! You have to put in the work to get it. That’s where a life coach comes in, they ask questions to show you your personal truth and enable you through those questions and your answers to find solutions. “To be an effective life coach you must love people,” Sarah tells me, “but you must know how to ask the right questions, and the most important thing I can give to my clients is my honesty”.

After growing up in the public eye as a child of German politicians, Sarah had to overcome seemingly impossible situations and personal circumstances the experiences of which inform her to help her clients to work through their own roadblocks and challenges. She tells me of a time when she was at rock bottom, unhappy to the core and at the brink of suicide. “I was at the window, ready to jump, but an internal voice told me not to, that I had a job to do here on the planet.

Coaching saved my life, literally. I would not be here otherwise.” There followed a long period of self discovery for her as she grew

PEOPLE as a person and developed her “toolbox” of strategies for problem solving and breaking through limiting beliefs. Sarah had been working in marketing, although she knew it wasn’t the right fit for her, but she was fortunate enough to have a boss gave her that push that she needed and asked her, “What do you really want to do?” Sarah knew she loved to talk with her clients on their accounts, working late into the night, “This came naturally to me, I wanted to find a way to empower them, ever before I officially worked as a coach.” Reflecting back Sarah will tell you that she has always been intrinsically a coach, “from birth!” she jokes.

“My genius is to listen,” she tells me. So she decided to follow her passion, quit her job and started to work for a well known coach in Germany.

There followed several adventures including launching a fashion brand, selling and donating all of their possessions in order to become “location independent”, travelling the world with Jan and in the midst of it all having their son, all of which she recounts with a huge smile on her face and a joyful tilt to her head. Sarah’s business is not dependent on where she is. Unlike some sorts of life coaching which follows a systematic approach regardless of the individual, Sarah approaches each client as the unique person they are. “Everyone is so different, I design strategies for each person which will work for them, but may not work for another. I have a huge toolbox to choose from. I’ll give you an example, I was working with a business woman who wanted to inspire her team. She loved to play basketball and I suggested to her that she bring the same feeling of joy and excitement that she experienced when she played basketball into her team meetings. I offered her the idea that she should approach it as a game and be more light hearted. It worked because she understood the feeling and idea, where with someone else that just wouldn’t have worked at all!”

,“Why don’t you feel as if you deserve this?”.

She had been in a “poverty mindset” for so long that it took this special experience to recognise this and begin to break out of it. It was a very powerful weekend.”

Normally an hour is enough for an interview, but when I look at my watch, I see more than two hours have passed since Sarah and I started to talk. There is something quite extraordinarily special about her, her honesty, her humour, her clarity and insight when she asks me personal questions she hits the nail on the head again and again, hang on a minute I think, who is interviewing who here? By the end of our chat I have a list of new ideas for my own work and fresh perspectives I was not expecting, like surprise presents when it isn’t your birthday. So this is what coaching could be like I think, where someone who is genuinely interested in you can show you natural and easy ways to improve your life and achieve your dreams. Could it really be that simple?

Do you have the same problem at parties, I ask. If you tell everyone you’re a doctor they all want a free diagnosis! How do you stop yourself from getting too emotionally involved with your clients I ask, “I have to keep my boundaries, I have a duty to look after myself. Every woman has the right to this. We all push ourselves to achieve and be the “superwoman” but the reality is that we cannot do this all the time. It is not

possible. I have designed a life for myself and my family which allows me to take a week off every month from coaching. At first I was worried that this would not work, but having the ability to step away and then return fresh with new energy and new focus has really helped me and my clients.” If you search for Sarah on social media, you won’t find her, she would rather spend the time working one on one with her clients and truly helping them, she seems to have found a way to protect herself from the time suck that is the constant scrolling on Instagram feeds. Instead Sarah’s coaching practice now extends to training other women to coach and they adopt the same working timetable and approach to their own time management. “To consciously take time for your soul is a human right,” she says. To protect your energy, to allow yourself time to reflect, to be human and be vulnerable, to be able to forgive yourself for mistakes you have made and sometimes look at the difficult truths. These are things which if we want to develop as people we have to find the capacity to do. Like Rumi implied, the things we desire are not that difficult to be achieved if only we are willing to change ourselves.

At the end of the interview I hug Sarah, more than once, the intimate bubble we have been chatting inside of has to be broken, there are clients she has to speak to, and there’s probably a parking fine waiting for me on my car, (there was, but it was worth it). An extraordinary woman with the ability to inspire, I wish you dear reader the good fortune to one day meet her at a party or if you can’t wait that long then visit www. sarahantwerpes.com and get in touch with her today.

The majority of her clients do not live in Mallorca, and she meets them online using applications like Zoom, or in person during retreats on the island, or around the world. “My husband and I arranged a “Princess” weekend for one client who had never had the experience of being treated as if she was someone very special. She was treated like royalty for the whole weekend, chauffeur driven, the best hotel suite, the best restaurant, absolutely everything was perfect. She had a difficult time accepting it all which meant I could ask her the question CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 13

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Have Yourself A Merry Mallorcan Christmas!

What do the Spanish get up to at Christmas? And why should you have a go at ‘El Gordo’, the Fat One? From the lucky grapes, to ‘living’ nativity scenes, Angela Sara West gets into the festive spirit and discovers some of Spain’s seasonal traditions and quirky customs and magical Mallorcan events.

By Angela Sara West

With Christmas just around the corner, thoughts are turning to how to make the most of the holidays and enjoy all the fun of Spain’s deep-rooted Christmas customs and traditions and the joys of eating and celebration.

Countless enticing events and festivities during this sparkling celebratory season satisfy the Spanish passion for a good time.

For the food, music and dance-loving Spanish there always seems to be an excuse for a party. A convivial bunch, they really love a good fiesta and excel at celebrating and enjoying life to the full. Spain is THE country of festivals, always celebrating something, and the festive season is no exception - Christmas is the most important family event on the Spanish calendar, with the celebrations continuing for several weeks.

Want to know more about Spain’s festive traditions, events and quirky Christmas customs, curiosidades, and join in the fun?

Add some crucial celebratory dates to your social calendar and we’ll make sure you’ve got Christmas covered - Spanish style!

We might not have the snow, but as the streets of Spain start to sparkle with lights, festive markets pop up, and commemorations commence in candleit churches, Christmas can be the most magical time in Mallorca.

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Local island traditions are kept well and truly alive, with ancient rituals sitting happily side-by-side with contemporary Christmas customs. Traditional nativity scenes grace most homes, colourful decorations bedeck the island’s streets and there’s a general feeling of peace and goodwill to all. Idyllic scenes of wide-eyed children captivated by the twinkling fairy lights and singing customary carols, it’s a joyous time for family and friends to gather together, celebrating exchanging gifts and good wishes, and, of course, it’s also about enjoying fantastic food and drink in abundance and enjoying jolly times around the table with loved ones.

And there’s plenty of time to enjoy them…

Celebrations stretch all the way from December 22nd to Epiphany, on January 6th, leaving you lots of leeway for a very merry time in Mallorca.

Move over, Santa – the Three Kings are in Town!

First Christmas on the island? You’re in for a treat! You’ll probably be pleased to discover that this feelgood season is refreshingly less commercial in Spain than it is in the UK. Yuletide here retains its religious focus and the deep-rooted traditions of a Spanish Christmas still reign supreme, although other European, money-making influences

are starting to creep in.

The Spanish place much more emphasis on the arrival of the Three Kings in early January than on Christmas itself, which is still a primarily religious event. Unlike in the UK, where Christmas Day reigns supreme, the most special celebrations in Spain are the Feast of the Three Kings and New Year’s Eve fiesta.

Spanish tradition has it that the Three Kings or Three Wise Men, los Reyes Magos or Magi - Balthazar, Melchior and Caspar - are the ones who bring children their presents, regalos típicos, on the morning of January 6th, el Día de Reyes, repeating the ritual they enacted after baby Jesus was born. Lately, however, influenced by American films and TV shows and Christmas Day customs in Europe, many families have decided to switch to the popular lore of Papá Noel, Father Christmas, coming on Christmas Day, allowing kids more time to play with their newly-gifted haul.

Although Father Christmas (or Santa Claus) and Rudolf are now on the festive map here, they play a much smaller part and, in a 2015 survey, Spanish children overwhelmingly chose the Three Kings as the ‘stars’ of the Christmas period and as their favourite gift givers over Santa. The Kings play a similar role though, in that Spanish children write letters to one of the Kings or all three, outlining all the good things they’ve done during the year, and the Kings then bring the children their gifts in the early morning of Epiphany.

Christmas in the city A vibrant city rich in culture and history, Palma embraces every fiesta with gusto, with Christmas celebrations the biggest of them all. The capital is where most festive activities take place, with heart-warming carols, colours and lights filling the lively streets and squares and shops bedecked with fairy lights and eye-catching trees, everywhere oozing Christmas cheer.

The magic commences at the end of November, when crowds gather in Palma’s Plaça de Cort, the town hall square, to

SEASON witness the wonderful illumination of the city’s Christmas lights. LED-decorated balloons in tow, charmed children and adults alike watch on in wonder as sparkling strands of antique lights adorn the city and a happy atmosphere of anticipation fills the air.

With its stunning stained-glass windows now complemented by exceptional Christmas decoration, the city’s candleit cathedral, La Seu, never looks more mesmerising. The hub of many of the city’s festivities, Palma’s Passeig des Born is also beyond beautiful at this time of year. Fantastic fairy lights spiral up palm trees, illuminating every branch, decorative garlands criss-cross the street, while a whole canopy of glowing lights covers the Plaça del Rei Joan Carles I. Away from the hustle’n’bustle of the capital, the island’s villages and towns are lighting up, too, bedecked with colourful lights and Christmas decorations. Mallorca’s myriad of churches, sanctuaries and hermitages also pay extra special attention to their décor at Christmas time.

‘Tis the season to… shop!

Shopaholics delight at the long Christmas shopping season in Spain, where you’re spoilt for choice with magical markets and shops selling everything from seasonal decorations, gifts and curiosities, to clothes, figures for nativity scenes and unique handcrafted items. El Corte Inglés offers no end of ideas for stylish presents and you can even pick up bargain decs at its Christmas outlet store. Boutiques and fashion outlets are full of festive goodies, while kids can whisper their gift wish list to Father Christmas at his Grotto in the outdoor mall at Marratxi.

Fingers crossed for The Fat One! The next date for your December diary?

This is a big one… The Spanish, along with many expats, keep their fingers crossed for a Christmas windfall, courtesy of the world-renowned lottery draw, El Gordo, literally ‘The Fat One’. The annual Christmas Lottery event takes all day and there is great excitement and ceremony surrounding the whole occasion. Almost everyone in Spain takes part, never straying far from a TV or radio as the lottery is drawn, with prizes celebrated in style out in the streets.

This long drawn-out event unfolds on the morning of December 22nd, when ticket numbers tumbled in a giant drum are matched to balls with millionaire prizes

in a smaller drum. The ticketing system allows you to buy fractions and subfractions of different numbers, décimos and participaciones, offering increased chances of a share of the winnings. As the top prizes are drawn, TV and radio coverage centres on the search for the numerous winners, along with the lottery shop where the winning ticket was purchased.

Christmas Eve – meals & midnight mass in Mallorca Family gatherings in Spain are sacrosanct, and Christmas Eve, la Nochebuena (literally the Good Night) and Christmas Day, la Navidad, are the most family-oriented, with the 24th the most important day of the whole Spanish calendar. Mallorcan families gather together for lunch and dinner on both days, preparing traditional dishes for the ultimate in indulgence.

The main meal takes place on Christmas Eve and marks the start of the holidays. In the evening, people often meet early for a few drinks with friends before heading home for the celebratory feast. This exciting evening event is as big in Spain as New Year’s Eve, with families gathered, often in very large numbers, for a festive night to remember.

The meal can consist of a major dish of meat or seafood, such as cordero, lamb, bacalao, cod or marisco, shellfish, varying according to the region or the family’s preferences.

Seafood is a Spanish favourite for kicking off a meal, and you’ll often seen crab or prawns as a starter, followed by roast lamb, rounded off with typically-festive turrón, a delicious nougat made of toasted sweet almonds, or other seasonal desserts such as polvorones, a crumbly almond shortbread.

Sweet-toothed? You’re in luck – made to make your mouth water, sugary delights, such as marzipan formed into various shapes, sweeten mealtimes all over Spain at this time of year! Make a beeline for the bakery, or visit a café or cake shop, to try the traditional sweets and pastries.

Break open the bubbly Cava’s the drink of choice for the Christmas toast, although plenty of fine Spanish wines will also be consumed during the meal.

This very merry festive feast featuring food in profusion, plenty of alcohol and festive sweets, sees the celebrations often continuing into the early hours of Christmas Day morning.

No Spanish Christmas celebration is complete without a spontaneous outburst of collective singing and, following the Christmas Eve meal, it’s time for a ‘good wishes’ toast, with a glass of cava, sparkling wine or cider, with families singing villancicos, traditional carols passed from one generation to the next. Children might receive a small gift, and many kids then take to the streets in groups to ask passers-by for the Aguinaldo, (coins or sweets in exchange for songs).

Midnight Mass is a must!

Following Christmas Eve dinner, it’s time for the Misa del Gallo, Midnight Mass, where Catholics commemorate the birth of Jesus. The entire city seems to pack Palma’s imposing cathedral. Presiding over the sparkling capital, magnificent La Seu is THE place to enjoy the magic of midnight mass on December 24th.

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In the northeast of the island? Lots of locals head up to Lluc, Mallorca’s most sacred monastery, for a similar spiritual mass.

Simply having a wonderful Spanish Christmas time!

Come Christmas Day, some Spanish children might receive a small gift or two this morning, adults too, but most patiently await their presents on January 6th. Christmas Day is a national holiday in Spain, so shops are closed and it’s a relatively calm day when people go for a walk, or partake in a laid-back pitstop for a drink.

Lunchtime sees another large and leisurely family meal, although eating out is becoming more and more popular, so you’re best to book early if planning to dine at a restaurant.

While December the 26th is a normal day throughout Spain, this is not the case in Mallorca, where an ancient local custom, la Segona Festa de Nadal (Second Christmas Day) is a bank holiday.

The joke’s on YOU! Another firm fixture on the festive calendar, Spain’s equivalent of the UK’s April Fool’s Day takes place on December 28th, when el día de los Santos Inocentes, the Day of the Holy Innocents, sees social norms go out the window during yet another celebration, which is one of the most popular and entertaining Christmas traditions in Spain.

Over the centuries, this spirited celebration of a pagan-Christian tradition commemorating a biblical episode related to King Herod has evolved into a boisterous, much-loved event, seeing April Fools-style tricks and jokes become the law of the day.

Participants take much pleasure in playing pranks, inocentadas, frivolous antics, such as making a pretend Mayor sweep the streets, and don’t be surprised to see figures cut out of white paper secretly stuck on oblivious others’ backs. It’s customary to buy fun, novelty items, such as wigs, itching powder 16 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

and fake ink, from street markets for playing tricks on people, and even the media gets in on the act, reporting on outrageously crazy and fake news stories.

The Three Kings Parades When the traditional Three Kings Parades arrive on the eve of Epiphany, January 5th, families line the street to welcome the Three Wise Men. Over 200 years-old, this exciting experience represents the journey of the Kings on their camels, following the star until they arrive at the stable in Bethlehem where Jesus was born. The biggest processions are nothing less than spectacular, with floats carrying children’s characters as well as the Kings, making for a most memorable experience.

If you’re in Palma, don’t miss the spectacular scene as the three holy Kings arrive at Marina Moll Vell by boat, loaded (supposedly!) with everyone’s Christmas presents.

Accompanied by music and fireworks, they’re then greeted by a huge entourage of entertainers, characters and numerous floats, and then parade through the city bearing their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The Kings waving regally from their thrones, bands bring celebration with Christmas songs and carols.

Wonder why some of the awestruck children come wielding umbrellas as they line the parade route, rain or shine? All becomes clear as the Kings approach and the umbrellas are opened and turned upside-down to catch the copious caramelos, sweets, thrown by the convoy into the awestruck crowds!

A spectacle of joy, light and colour, every Spanish town has its own variation of the famous parades, cabalgatas. Sometimes the Kings ride donkeys or horses, elsewhere it’s tractors, while in the Sierra Nevada, the Three Kings ski down to the village.

Of such special importance in Spain, the worship of the Three Kings is taken so seriously on the Iberian Peninsula and in the Balearics that the figurines of the Kings aren’t placed into nativity scenes until the actual day of their arrival.

Naughty or nice?

According to tradition, children must head to bed early on Epiphany Eve, leaving their shoes outside their door for the Kings to put presents in later that night, leaving larger presents alongside. According to an old

custom, if children are good, the Kings will leave gifts, but if they’re naughty, they’ll run the risk of receiving coal - although it’s actually a ‘sweet’ punishment because the coal is made of sugar!

Just as it’s customary for children in the UK to leave out a mince pie and sherry for Father Christmas and a carrot for Rudolph, Spanish children like to leave a drink such as fino for each of the Three Kings and food for their camels. When the kids are asleep, the Kings bring their presents through windows, rather than chimneys, but only if they’ve been good, of course!

Three Kings Day - Epiphany excitement Finally, the most magical moment of the year is here, especially for little ones. While in other countries the Christmas decs are now packed away and normal working life has resumed, in Spain the holiday spirit continues until January 6th, with Spanish homes still enjoying enchanting customs with Ephiphany, traditionally Spain’s main festive holiday.

For Spanish children, this is the most important day of the year. Having eagerly awaited the arrival of the Kings, there’s unforgettable magic as the long-awaited day finally arrives and children arise early, running excitedly to where they left their shoes to find out what gifts they have received. Happily finding the food and drink gone and, hopefully, no coal in their shoes, their faces light up as they find their gifts and can then spend the day playing with their new presents.

FACTBOX For further information, visit the Spanish Tourist Office: www.spain.info Looking for a New Year’s resolution?

Why not learn the lingo! BBC Languages offers phrases and games aplenty to help you pick up some Spanish, or improve your level, in no time: www.bbc.co.uk/languages/ spanish © Angela Sara West 2019 www.angelasarawest.com

Guillermo Bermell www.paellalover.com

+34 66 44 59 546 info@paellalover.com

PAELLA LOVER SCHOOL is the first real paella cooking school in the Balearic Islands. experience yourself how to cook your very own artisan paella. Savour a full menu including all explanations and tricks from the greatest chefs to excel with your paella. Choose between seafood, chicken and rabbit meat, vegan or black paella. The service is led under the slow food movement: you will be immersed in a such a great experience that you will simply love the event! The gathering involves also savouring a welcome cocktail, preparation and consumption of a starter, drinks (white or red wine, beer, soft drinks and water) during the whole service, dessert, coffee, digestive and some more surprises!

PAELLA LOVER AT HOME HOME is the service of the authentic artisan paellas made at your home in Mallorca. We cook the best paellas for you in your house, villa or yacht.

Simply enjoy eating a traditional artisan paella. Choose between seafood, chicken and rabbit meat, vegan or black paella and some others depending on the season.

Paellas can be cooked in wood fire and have bio ingredients upon request. The service includes a starter and some surprises!

NEWS & EVENTS

Lions Club Gala Event Photos: Vicki McLeod

After successive promotions the team has an uphill battle ahead The Calvia Lions hosted their first-ever Charity gala in aid of The Dolly Cancer Fund. The charity was set up in memory of the brave 21-year-old Dolores Sanchez, who sadly passed away after her long battle with cancer, and to support others suffering from the illness in Mallorca who urgently need funds to help with treatments, transport and other unexpected expenses.

The gala was hosted in the beautiful setting of the Castillo Hotel Son Vida where guests were greeted with a glass of champagne as they walked the red carpet to the photocall. Guests then moved out onto the terrace with its spectacular views for an aperitif accompanied by live violinists and an illusionist who set the tone before heading indoors for the exquisite three-course fine dining experience. More live music followed by the Monkey Doos and Il Quattro. In between the live music sets, stand up comedian, Jorge, entertained the guests with his one-man show, while a cartoonist provided another fun aspect to keep the guests entertained. To conclude the evening, everyone headed towards the pop-up casino to try their hand at blackjack and roulette to help raise more funds for the charity.

18 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

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Turn on & tune in to your favourite English radio with the latest tunes, club classics and soulful sounds. With live Mallorca resident presenters and shows reporting relevant island news.

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Choose a successful advertising campaign with Radio One Mallorca like many other businesses on the island!

jo@radioonemallorca.com or call: 691 231 139 DOWNLOAD our free Radio One App on itunes & Google Play LISTEN LIVE on 93.8fm, via our website or Tune In Radio App

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CHELSEA HANDLER American TV and Netflix chat-show host and comedian, Chelsea Handler, was in Mallorca with some family and friends and took time to post some pictures from Cap Rocat on her Instagram.

ELSA PATAKY Elsa Pataky, the Spanish model and wife of Hollywood heartthrob, Chris Hemsworth, was spotted on the island in September for a photoshoot.

SHAILENE WOODLEY American actress, Shaliene Woodley, best known for her role in the Divergent series, was also spotted filming scenes for The Last Letter From Your Lover.

FELICITY JONES The theory of Everything actress was spotted filming seems from the upcoming movie, The Last Letter From Your Lover in Formentor.

ELEN RHYS AND JULIAN LOOMAN Elen Rhys and Julian Looman were in Mallorca for the Evolution International Film Festival to premiere their upcoming BBC drama, The Mallorca Files.

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MADS MIKKELSEN Bond villain and Hannibal star Mads Mikkelsen was spotted in trendy Santa Catalina bar Ventuno enjoying a drink. A regular visitor to the island, Mads has spoken of his love of Mallorca in many interviews.

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The autumn months are the perfect time for a bit of celebrity spotting on the island and this year it has not disappointed. Everyone from A-list Hollywood celebs to some reality TV stars have graced our shores with their presence. Here’s who we have spotted around the island. Don’t forget that you can send in your celebrity pictures to ads@celebritymallorca.es or whats app 635 691 804 and you could be on this page in the next edition! Don’t forget to send names, date and location, see you soon with the stars*

RAFA NADAL Spotted by the lovely Michelle at Flanigans Restaurant in Puerto Portals, Rafa Nadal posed for a selfie after his starstudded wedding.

ASIF KAPADIA BAFTA Award-winning filmmaker, Asif Kapadia, was recently in Mallorca for the Mallorca International Film Festival for the screening of his 2016 documentary, Amy.

TOM ZANETTI & DAISEY O’DONNELL British DJ, Tom Zanetti was recently spotted enjoying himself at Key West during a recent trip to Mallorca with Daisey O’Donnell, the influencer and model.

KING JUAN CARLOS AND QUEEN SOFIA The former king and queen of Spain are long-term friends of Rafa Nadal and were on the island for the tennis star’s wedding.

Rafa Nadal ties the knot in Mallorca Famous Mallorcan tennis star, Rafa Nadal, married his beautiful bride, Maria Francisca Perello at a star-studded ceremony at the beautiful La Fortaleza overlooking the bay of Pollensa.

Over 350 guests travelled to the luxury estate, including former King and Queen of Spain, Juan Carlos and Sofia, to witness the couple say “I Do”.

The details of the wedding remained a secret with both Rafa and Maria saying very little about their big day but it was revealed that Spanish dress designer, Rosa Clara designed Perello’s dress.

The US Open Instagram page gave us the first glimpse of the happy couple on their big day posing in front of a beautiful sea view.

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CELEBRITY

RHOC’s Hanna and Martin say ‘I Do’ Hanna Miraftab and Dr Martin Kinsella from the Real Housewives of Cheshire tell us about their beautiful wedding

By Ben Mulvey

Following our recent conversation in Mallorca, it was time to speak to Hanna Miraftab and Dr Martin Kinsella about their beautiful wedding at the stunning Liverpool Cathedral and their honeymoon with a difference.

The wedding ceremony took place at the Liverpool Cathedral, a city that holds a special place in both Hanna and Martin’s hearts as the city they met in. The Cathedral, with its high arches and stained glass, was an appropriate symbol of how far the couple have come and everything they have achieved and was a nod to Martin’s Christian upbringing.

Hanna looked stunning in a dress designed

by Knutsford Wedding Gallery and Martin’s face lit up as his bride walked towards him down the long aisle.

200 guests piled into the Cathedral to watch the happy couple exchange their vows before heading to the glass palace that is Palm House, a building that resembles a beautiful domed conservatory. Filled with flowers, Hanna and Martin walked into their reception with Persian music playing in the background before they took part in the Persian tradition of ‘sofreh aghd’, a 22 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

ceremony that involves placing symbolic items on a table that will help them throughout their marriage such as honey that symbolises sweetness and happiness and is served by the couple to each other on their fingers. The Persian element of the evening was to highlight Hanna’s cultural heritage, something that is very important to her.

“It was important to us to include both of our cultures in the wedding and it was nice for my family for us to be married in a Cathedral, even though it was Anglican rather than Catholic, and for Hanna’s Persian heritage to be included”, Martin tells me.

More guests arrived and the evening got fully underway with music, drinks and food to keep the guests entertained before the couple stepped onto the dancefloor for their first dance to Elton John’s “Something About The Way You Look Tonight”, a song that means a lot to the couple.

After the wedding day, the couple set off on a honeymoon with a difference, to volunteer in Africa. Starting in Cape Town, the couple headed into some smaller villages to offer their medical expertise to some of the poorest places in the country. Martin tells

me that they met some wonderful people they even met someone who was moving to Palma! - and spent their time helping as much as they could. The couple helped with the medical needs of the villages as well as cooking, cleaning and helping with the kid’s club.

After this rewarding week of volunteering, Hanna and Martin moved back to Cape Town and went on a safari before heading back to reality.

“I came to Mallorca the week after we got back from our honeymoon and both of us are really busy with work. Hanna’s practice has been nominated for “Best Dental Practice” and I am working on a new individualised skincare process”, says Martin.

The new skincare procedures will be completely bespoke for each patient and work with each individual skin type and will be available in the UK clinic at the beginning of next year and in Mallorca just after.

Martin will be back on the island in November and for further information about his work and his Re-enhance Clinic, have a look at www.re-enhance.com or find him on Facebook.

CELEBRITY

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NEWS & EVENTS

Hats and Horses in Mallorca The events scene in Mallorca is a varied one with events taking place throughout the year and now there is a new player in town looking to take the crown for the most elegant event of the year.

By Ben Mulvey

The Celebrity team were lucky enough to be invited to the first edition of Hats and Horses in Mallorca so we donned our glad rags, slapped on a hat, and headed down to the Hippodrome Son Pardo in Palma.

The location, on the outskirts of Palma, may not seem like the most salubrious of venues to host an Ascot-style event but inside it is perfect for such an occasion with an expansive lawn and a great terrace overlooking the course.

Hats and Horses is the brainchild of Ariadna Vilalta who was inspired by a trip to Ascot in the UK and wanted to bring some of the same glamour and prestige to the Balearic Islands.

The event kicks off with some of the horses warming up on the course as the food buffet is laid out and the bottles of wine are uncorked almost as fast as the horses complete a full lap.

As the races begin at 4 pm, the bets are placed and the horses gallop off of the starting line. The unusual part of the races in Mallorca compared with Ascot is that the jockeys ride in a small carriage that is pulled along by the horses. The trotting horses of the Balearic Islands come from crossed specimens of French trotter, English 24 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

thoroughbred, Danish, Dutch and Spanish purebred horses and are bred to run.

It is quite exhilarating to see the speed at which the jockeys are pulled along although slightly terrifying to watch the horse’s back legs lifting so high when the jockey is sat so low - it could be rather uncomfortable if one of those powerful hooves made contact!

The races continue and the crowds continue to place their bets - some of the Celebrity team had a flutter although Lady Luck was not on our side.

Standing in the hippodrome with an icecold gin and tonic in our hands, everyone milling around in their finest attire and with some truly spectacular hats dominating the crowds, it is clear to see why the event is popular in Menorca. It also shows that there is so much potential for the event to become a regular fixture on the Mallorca social calendar.

Hats and Horses will be back next year and is an event that should not be missed and brings something truly unique to Mallorca.

For more information about the event take a look at www.hatsandhorses.com and check out the Celebrity Facebook page for all of the photos from the event!

Celebrity Hats and Horses David Bell and Ariadna Vilalta

Celebrity Hats and Horses Marita Rehme

Just a big thank you for my 30th DJ year working in Mallorca!

SHOUTS TO Jaime, Pako, Goyo & Rocky at Tito’s Palma.

Dusan, Gordon, Lloyd & Aly at BH Hotel & BCM planet dance.

Ricardo & all at Oceans night club on Calvia beach.

Ann & all at Chilli lounge on Calvia beach.

Paul & all at Keywest bar.

Huge shout to Mandy & Simon for Monaco F1 weekend :)

See you in 2020 Heading of to Maldives again... find me spinning at Six Senses Laamu Peace love & Music desmitchell.net | insta. desmitch57 e. hello@desmitchell.net

SPORTS

¡Hola in One! From air steward to golf consultant, Mark Showler quit his high-flying job with BA to realise his dream of living in Mallorca. Angela Sara West talks to London-born Mark about his life and award-winning golf business venture on the island, and reveals where you can find a famous face or two on the fairway!

By Angela Sara West

Tony Jacklin’s victorious European Ryder Cup Team, featuring Seve Ballesteros, Jack Nicklaus, Ian Woosnam, José María Olazábal, Sandy Lyle and Bernhard Langer, among others, in Glenmuir Moffat shirts. The photo was the first European Ryder Cup Team to wear Glenmuir clothing in 1987. Tony Jacklin successfully captained Europe to their first win on US soil in Ryder Cup history, with Seve Ballesteros sinking the winning putt. www.glenmuir.com

Mark Showler tees off, watching his ball soar down the impeccable fairway at stunning Club de Golf Alcanada. With the enticing Mediterranean sparkling through fragrant olive and pine trees, this is his favourite course to play. Although Mark loved his job as Customer Services Manager at British Airways, he’s now undeniably in his element here on the island, having established a thriving business offering value-for-money, tailor-made golf packages on this accessible, idyllic isle, which has become an important landmark on the golf tourism circuit.

As cabin crew on long-haul, Mark visited fabulous places worldwide. But Mallorca has always held a very special place in his heart... “I first visited in 1976 with my parents,” he tells me. “I made friends here and it’s always had a bit of a draw.” So much so, in May 2004, Mark quit the rat race and made a permanent move to Mallorca, taking on the role of team manager with Thomson Holidays. In February 2005, inspiration intervened and he and a friend decided to set up his own golfing holiday business, Simply Mallorca Golf, arranging bespoke packages for British golf fans.

26 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Luxury sweater from Glenmuir’s latest 1891 Heritage capsule collection available at www.glenmuir.com

Simply having a wonderful golfing time!

Given Mark’s love of the game, coupled with his background in travel and customer service, it was a natural business choice and,

he says, Mallorca and golf made the ideal match: “I absolutely adore Mallorca and have been interested in golf since taking lessons as a teenager. I love its outdoor appeal and wanted to promote the high-quality courses here, providing great holidays, too.”

Since its inauguration, Simply Mallorca Golf has gone from strength-to-strength, regularly selling over 10,000 rounds of golf per year and outperforming other golf agents at many of the island’s courses. The company won the prestigious accolade of ‘Top Selling Golf Tour Operator’ at Mallorca’s largest golf resort in 2018, and Mark is proud to have played an important part in making Mallorca one of Europe’s premier golfing holiday destinations.

Over 300 days of sunshine a year and some of the world’s best and most challenging courses over a variety of terrain make Mallorca an all-year-round golfer’s paradise.

Wisely investigating business opportunities elsewhere, Mark island-hopped around the Balearics and Canaries before opting to carve out a career here. “Knowing the island so well, it felt comfortable and homely. It’s only two hours from London, with a good, year-round climate. “Whilst we can’t ensure that it doesn’t rain, it is unlikely, offering a fantastic 360 playable golfing days a year!”

Tom & Barbara Initially, Mark rented a finca, which was the former residence of the ex-vicar of typical Mallorquín village, sleepy Son Servera.

Along with religious artefacts, the land surrounding the finca boasted orange and lemon trees and Mark enjoyed growing his own vegetables, too. “You can’t eat nine trees’ worth of oranges, so I made marmalade. It was a real Tom and Barbara existence!”

He’s now invested in a two-bedroom, ground-floor, traditional apartment with a terrace area in Cala Ratjada, just 15 minutes away from the ‘Love Island’ villa, sensibly keeping one foot in the UK with the house he owns in West End, Surrey. Situated in the ‘Square of the Fishermen’, his Cala Ratjada residence was originally occupied by fisherfolk. “Our home is very traditional Mallorquín in terms of the furnishings and

SPORTS décor, so the aim is to try to modernise it a bit. At certain times of the year, you can still see the fishermen repairing their nets down the main street, so it’s got a lot of local character and there’s a real local feel to it.

There are no other English people in the development. There’s one German couple and the rest are all Mallorquín or Spanish.”

Mark enjoys participating in local fiestas, varying from religious to agricultural, and particularly loves partaking in one of the biggest parties on the island, the Nit de Foc, where devils maraud through the streets breathing fire, setting off firecrackers and lighting fireworks. Does he now feel fullyintegrated? “I almost feel like a local. I knew I was accepted a few Christmases ago when the neighbours had a matanza, pig-killing.

I awoke to the sad and sorrowful screams of their pig meeting its maker and was later offered a sobrasada, sausage. I’d rather it was still running around the garden, but had I declined, they’d have been deeply offended.”

Teeing off the company In establishing Simply Mallorca Golf, Mark spoke to every course director, hotelier and property provider in the area. “I spent eight months working in a variety of positions in the local tourist trade, enabling me to make important contacts, whilst allowing time to research the business. The courses are keen to promote golf to the British market and, therefore, mostly welcomed me with open arms.” Mark’s small team initially included the daughter of a flamenco dancer, key in helping Mark source new properties available to rent. Aiming to respond to quote requests within hours, the company prides itself on impeccable service, offering a variety of packages to suit all budgets and individual needs. “Whatever your requirements, we can provide for them.”

The business has flourished most years, covering more and more areas of Mallorca as it grows, and now boasts contracts with every single course. “We’re attracting clients from all around the world, including America, Australia and Korea. The Swedish, Norwegian, Danish and German markets are strong, and German-speaking clients now have their own dedicated website where enquiries are handled in their own language by Ricarda, the latest addition to the Simply Mallorca Golf team, who has a fantastic knowledge of golf.”

Simply play!

Simply Mallorca Golf initially concentrated on the northeast of the island and was the

first British company to solely promote golf in that area. “With so many great courses in such a relatively small area, I couldn’t understand why more British people weren’t visiting,” Mark explains. “To find good courses, you have to travel, and traditionally, the British golfing market stays and plays in and around Palma. The northeast area’s ideal for golfers wanting to play the best courses, away from the mass tourism and busy courses of the south. It’s tranquilo, calmer, more laid-back and unspoilt with some real, hidden gems.”

He has helped enormously in putting the northeast firmly on the golfing map, promoting excellent courses, golf accommodation, facilities, pro shops and tuition. But Mark has also made his mark all over the island, influential in other areas, too. The ‘must-play’ courses? “Alcanada, Son Gual, Son Muntaner and T-Golf & Country Club Poniente. But if you’re looking to stay in one area and have a choice from four great courses, then I would recommend visiting the northeast of the island, and playing Canyamel, Capdepera, Pula and Son Servera.“

Mark Showler. Photo by Pete Roach

Get golfing!

Looking to play a round? Look no further than Simply Mallorca Golf, who are on hand to discuss all 19 of the island’s 18-hole golf courses in depth, and help you decide on the one for you! Mark and his business partner, Tracy, cater to their clients’ preferences, offering advice and saving you time and money, creating a personalised package to suit all your requirements. “For example, if you don’t like courses where buggies must be kept to the paths, then we’ll only offer courses where they can be driven on the fairways. We’ll help you to schedule your

itinerary so that you can take advantage of the best offers, and obtain the tee-times that you favour.” They can even assist with helicopter charter.

The company is a member of IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators), the global trade organisation for the golf tourism industry. “This further demonstrates and emphasises our commitment to providing a quality product and service for all golfers on, or visiting, the island of Mallorca,” says Mark. “A lot of the work that our customers don’t see is the effort we put into ensuring our customers have a great golfing experience. We survey all our customers, and the feedback we receive is relayed back to the Director of the golf courses so that the service experience of our customers can be enhanced. Our location in the northeast has helped us to be a strong advocate for golf in this area, and we were instrumental in putting together a cost-effective package for golf here, where customers can play three out of the four courses from just 50€ per round.”

“Spring and autumn are the best times of the year to play,” Mark advises. “In spring, the courses are in a great condition, and in autumn, the temperatures have dropped sufficiently to enable you to play golf in the sun, without gasping for a beer by the time you reach the 19th!”

Some of the best golf courses in Mallorca can get fully booked up to six months in advance. “So, we advise to always plan ahead, and book early!”

Where to stay When it comes to great golf accommodation, you’ll never find yourself more than a short putt away from a fairway. From high-end boutique hotels and deluxe apartments, to agritourism properties and luxury villas, there are more choices close to perfectlymanicured greens than you can swing a golf club at!

Celebrity golfers Immaculate fairways, prestigious marinas and the colourful cosmopolitan capital, Palma, also draw the rich and famous to this year-round golfing getaway, with celebrities and golf pros, including David Beckham and ‘EastEnders’ stars, frequently spotted teeing off on the island’s championship courses.

Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta Jones, Jack Nicholson, Nigel Mansell, Claudia Schiffer, Jasper Carrott and Prince Andrew have all played at Real Golf CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 27

SPORTS de Bendinat, while Boris Becker swaps his racket for clubs at Golf Club Andratx. And tennis might be the island’s resident ace, Rafael Nadal’s first love, but golf, it seems, comes a close second for the Manacor-born tennis star, who can often be seen showing off his skills at many of the island’s courses.

Alternatively, follow in the famous footsteps of Ian Woosnam, Sam Torrance and Mark James at Son Gual, praised by the pro golfers when practising their swing here.

Top tips for a top business If you’re thinking about setting up a business on the island, Mark stresses the importance of taking financial and legal advice. “Tax rates and licences required to run a business can be so different in a foreign country, and sometimes rules and regulations don’t function in the way that we’re familiar with in the UK. Sometimes, they don’t even seem to make sense! The main thing is to appreciate that there is a cultural difference in Spain, and the faster you can adjust to that and respect the way that people function and work, then the faster you and your business will be successful.”

Mark also ensured that they switched from being a UK company to a Spanish company 10 years ago. “Registering everything in the UK was the quickest way for us to start trading, but added complications. You must fit in and conform. Appreciate that it’s not your country, respect local traditions and do things THEIR way.”

Upping your game What does Mark love most about life in Mallorca? “Although I’ve been coming here for nearly 40 years, I still like exploring and discovering new places. I love the culture, fantastic beaches, dining out, and Palma, a beautiful city, touted as the new Barcelona.”

And, of course, there’s the golf. “I play whenever I get a chance. As any golfer will tell you, it’s not all about the game; golf ’s about relaxation, being in the open, enjoying the scenery, and also the social side of playing a round with complete strangers, or having a chilled glass of Rioja on the terrace after a great round with friends. Being involved in the sport on both sides, from practising and improving my game to promoting it, is a dream come true!”

Mark recently met up with a mentor, Seán Herron, who has helped take his game to a whole new level. “Seán trains golf in a completely different way to the way that the PGA pros teach. He’s also a transformational 28 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

breath coach, which is an interesting field in itself! I had one lesson and, in a short space of time, he had me hitting the ball further and straighter than I’d ever done in my whole life!”

Back to Blighty Returning to the UK between three and six times a year, what does Mark miss most about life in Blighty? “There used to be quite a few things that I missed, but now English teabags, baked beans, herbs, and things like that, are all readily available. I do still miss a night out in London, my UK friends, and visiting a proper UK pub, but apart from that, little else!

It’s been a difficult year for tourism in Mallorca, as numbers have been below par, but Mark says next year’s bookings are rolling in at a good pace and the figures for 2020 are looking very encouraging. “The island’s golf courses have an excellent reputation for the quality they offer, and some hotels have reduced their prices, so early signs for next year are promising.”

Any regrets? “Absolutely none! I’ve met some fantastic people, feel more relaxed, and I just love it! I’m here to stay. I swapped a stressful, high-paid job for life in the sun and now I’m bartering with lemons for sausages!”

FACTBOX Simply Mallorca Golf help plan your tee-times and save you money by offering discounted green fees at all of the island’s 18-hole golf courses. For further information and bookings, contact: Tel: (UK) +44 (0)20 3318 8552, (ES) +34 971 588 296 Email: hello@SimplyMallorcaGolf.com Web: www.SimplyMallorcaGolf.com The Balearic Islands Golf Association at Golf Poniente: www.mallorcagolfisland.com Seán Herron, The Easiest Swing: https://easiestswing.com/instructor/ sean-herron/ World-famous Scottish golfwear brand, Glenmuir, is among the leading golf brands in the industry and has been sported by many of the greatest players in the history of the game. Glenmuir’s traditional, but forward-thinking, golfing clothes and accessories are available from pro shops on the island, including Golf Alcanada and Golf Maioris and Son Gual Golf Academy.

For further information, visit: www.glenmuir.com Playing in the north-east? Stay at: Park Hyatt Mallorca: www.hyatt. com/en-US/hotel/spain/park-hyattmallorca/malph Pleta de Mar: www.pletademar.com Creu de Tau Art & Spa: www.hotelcreudetau.com Get there with British Airways: www.britishairways.com And, in case you’re wondering, 4 lemons = 1 sausage! © Angela Sara West 2019 www.angelasarawest.com

KURO PIZZA MASA MADRE TABERNA AND KUROBOTA Two Distinct Flavours in Palma Two years ago, Kurobata opened its doors in Santa Catalina, offering an explosion of Asian flavours to the rich gastronomic offering of Palma. The tastefully decorated interior coupled with the ambient lighting and background music creates a calming atmosphere and the smells transport you to the restaurant’s Asian routes.

Colour, texture, flavours and smells are key to the food in this restaurant, a journey through the flavours of Asia stimulating all of your senses. Due to the success of Kurobata, a new gastronomic experience has been opened by the owners in Calle Cotoner in the form of Kuro Pizza Masa Madre Taberna. This new concept arrived four months ago and serves food that tastes as authentic as the food your mother used to make, hence the reference to “madre” in the name.

Kuro is the result of research into the art of dough-making using the wood-fired flavours and fresh ingredients and flavours of the Mediterranean. Attention to detail and authentic flavours are at the heart of this restaurant making it a homely, welcoming environment for all. Both restaurants are a welcome addition to the restaurant scene in Palma and, although different in their concept, are so alike in the level of quality and the experience they provide to their guests.

Kurobata can be found at Plaza Progreso, 9 in Palma’s Santa Catalina district and Kuro Pizza Masa Madre Taberna is located at Calle Cotoner, 33. Book through their websites: www.kurobotarestaurant.com www.kuropizza.com

ARTS & CULTURE

Slow Art in Mallorca A Chat with Daxa Parmar

By Ben Mulvey

Daxa Parmar is an artist based here on the island of Mallorca where she has lived for the last four and a half years with her wife, Linda, and her daughter, Molly. Daxa and Linda recently merged their two passions, art and the sea, to create a beautiful and welcoming space that is now home to the Daxa Parmar Gallery and Linda’s sea school, Aigua Sea School.

“I want people to feel welcome here”, Daxa tells me, and it is clear that she means it whenever she greets people as they walk in.

“The gallery is the perfect place to reach the community.”

Born in 1972 in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire as the youngest of four children, Daxa often found it hard to be heard in such a busy household and rarely had time to herself, something that she tells me that she found through her art.

With both her mother and her father being creative with their hands, her father was an electrician but also worked with shoes and her mother a keen cook, there were always tools and materials around for Daxa to use.

Daxa started her career working as a designer with a bold and abstract style that was sold for use on furniture and soft furnishings that proved popular in the US and led to Daxa being described as one of the ‘Top 6 Designers to Watch’ by Time Out. Through working as a designer, Daxa reignited her passion for painting and began to showcase her work at various cafes, restaurants and boutiques in the UK. After taking part in a huge solo exhibition in Leicester University, Daxa started working with the Prince’s Trust by mentoring artists that were trying to market themselves and even ended up mentoring members of the Prince’s Trust team.

With all of this experience, Daxa continues to learn, evolve and grow and is using her talents to help people in Mallorca.

“I am working to bring together all that I have learned and use it to make art, help other people to create art and to help people communicate through whatever medium they choose,” she says. This is certainly achieved through Daxa’s art that is on display on the walls of her gallery. Inspired by colour, texture and depth there is also use of ‘0’ which Daxa explains: “For me, it’s the ultimate to connecting with 30 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Nothing but water Oil on Canvas 90cm x 90cm

Daxa Parmar at her studio table Daxa Parmar and Linda Revill with Baloo

my truer self and my purpose in life.

Each symbol of ‘0’ represents a cycle.

A breath. It’s calming and helps you to connect your mind and body by keeping your attention in the present moment”.

Daxa’s art is open and inviting, calming and emotive, but most importantly of all, accessible. Daxa believes that art is created to be enjoyed and the space that she and Linda have created offer people the chance to come in and admire the paintings and have a chat.

Daxa also organises events at the gallery.

Recently there were two evenings dedicated to Art & Wine which allowed guests to wander through the gallery as Daxa explained her artwork while Ivan from The Wine Industry explained wines and it was left to each person to pair the art with the wine. A thoroughly enjoyable and unique concept that I would recommend to everyone.

If you find yourself in need of a pause during your busy life, head down to Daxa’s gallery on November 27th for ‘Slow Your Senses’, a night of three experiences in one evening. It

is an evening designed to “take a moment to reconnect with ‘being’ rather than doing’.

For more information, visit www. daxaparmar.com and have a look at the beautiful artwork on Daxa’s Instagram or pop into Daxa’s gallery in Santa Catalina.

Daxa Parmar

PET’S CORNER

Meet Nick The Vet When it comes to our four-legged and furry family members we can all become a little mushy and, according to a survey in the UK, a third of people prefer their pets to their partners! So when our pets are ill we want to make sure they get the best treatment possible.

By Ben Mulvey

When it comes to our four-legged and furry family members we can all become a little mushy and, according to a survey in the UK, a third of people prefer their pets to their partners! So when our pets are ill we want to make sure they get the best treatment possible.

British vet, animal whisperer and general Dr Dolittle, Nick the Vet, has been looking after the island’s pets since 2003 at Clinica Veterinaria Bendinat and has built a loyal customer base and a fantastic reputation for offering immeasurable care to each and every animal he treats in the clinic.

As anyone that has met Nick will know, he has a super friendly demeanour that instantly puts pets and their owners at ease.

Rather than cowering in a corner in fear, many of the pets drag their owners through the doors of the clinic to see Nick’s two dogs that are a welcome presence every day.

Nick moved to Mallorca with his Mallorcan wife after meeting her in the UK and decided to set up Clinica Veterinaria Bendinat to bring a British standard of service and care to the island. Nick and his team go above and beyond for their clients and patients and provide all types of treatments

from routine procedures to complicated surgeries. Specialising in cats and dogs, Nick and fellow vet, Cristina, have treated big lizards and a few parrots over the years as well as some pampered pets belonging to celebrities on the island.

The key to the success of Clinica Veterinaria Bendinat is the team that work there. Nick and Cristina are professional, caring and knowledgable vets while nurse Marina is on hand to assist with calm professionalism and Emily and Vanessa greet all clients and pets and make them instantly feel welcome and comfortable. Next time you need to see a vet, whether it is for jabs or something more complicated, be sure to visit Nick at the team at Clinica Veterinaria Bendinat to give your pet the best treatment possible.

Pop in and see them in Centro Comercial Plaza Bendinat or give them a call on +34 971 40 44 59. www.vet-bendinat.com www.facebook.com/palmavet

‘Nick The Vet’

CONSULTATIONS AND ADVICE Consultations are normally by appointment. If a pet falls ill quickly or if there is an emergency, clients should never hesitate in ringing, because the team will always fit the animal in immediately.

PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE Prevention is better than cure.

These can help detect a disease at an early stage which allows the experts in the clinic to take the appropriate action before it is too late.

FACILITIES We have a fully equipped surgery providing the best facilities for all occasions for your pets.

SURGERY AND HOSPITALISATION Nick designed the clinic with the pet and client in mind. The reception area is light and friendly and the whole clinic, is airconditioned.

GENERAL ANAESTHETICS AND OPERATIONS We take great care with our patients, and all patients are checked over before being given and anaesthetic.

MICROCHIPPING A microchip is a small, rice-sized electronic device which is put under the skin. It is completely inert and does not affect the pet in any way.

CONTACT • Phone: 971 404 459 • Mobile: 680 417 828 • Email: palmavet@hotmail.com HOURS • Mon - Fri 09:00 - 13:30 & 14:30 - 18:30 • Sat 10:00 - 12:30 • 24hr Emergencies

NEWS & EVENTS

Real Estates United Charity Event returned more fabulous than ever!

People flocking to the OD Port Portals Hotel in their finest clobber, oozing with glitz and glamour, can only mean one thing - the Real Estates Untied Charity Event was back!

Photos: Vicki McLeod & Saray Sanz, Text by Ben Mulvey

On September 20th the OD Port Portals Hotel was the perfect venue for REUs Red Carpet Event on behalf of the JoyRon Foundation, a charity that works hard to improve the lives of children in the Balearics. Each year, Donna Suarez, Director of Real Estates United, organises the event as she feels it is important to give something back to the community.

Celebrity Magazine were there to sponsor the event and coordinate the proceedings.

“All of our agents in Real Estates United do well in the real estate industry in Mallorca and I believe that it is important for us to give something back but in a way that is fun and affordable for everyone,” Donna told the crowds.

The night kicked off with a photo call with Vicki McLeod and the glamorous dancers from Tito’s Mallorca who had volunteered their time for this event and offered free entry into the nightclub for all guests with their wristbands. As people arrived they were treated to the soothing sounds of the talented saxophonist Adrian Sanso-Ali and handed a welcome cocktail.

As the night got into full swing the DJ played some upbeat music before the talented girls from Louisa Pole’s Pole Fitness entertained the crowds with their awesome moves on the pole. Pole Fitness has dancers from 15 to 59 years of age and showed off their amazing talents and incredible strength at the event.

Next up was the uber-talented Charley Hamblyn who serenaded the crowd with her amazing vocal talents.

Charley got the crowd moving and a few even joined in with some singing.

Raffle tickets sold and a auction was held to assist in raising funds for this worthy cause.

To conclude the evening Ben Mulvey and Ron Hawes drew the raffle for 34 prizes that were donated by sponsors and supporters of the event and JoyRon along with an auction for prizes from the ELLA Experience and The Rib Club.

Overall a sum of €7,495 was raised for the JoyRon Foundation which will be put to use to help support children in need across the Balearic Islands.

A big thank you to everyone that helped out in making this event such a success: the performers, the OD Port Portals team, Real Estates United, Celebrity Magazine, Radio 1 Mallorca, DJ Diablo V, Larrick Ebanks, the photographers, videographers, sponsors and guests but most importantly, the JoyRon Foundation for all of the amazing work they do. www.realestatesunited.com www.joyronfoundation.org 32 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

NEWS & EVENTS

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 33

NEWS & EVENTS

Evolution! Mallorca International Film Festival Mallorca Film Festival 2019 - Back and better than ever!

By Ben Mulvey

Prize Winners Ruben Batalla

GINA HOLE LAZAROWICH the Film Director, and award winner on the night with film producer husband.

MIFF Elen Rhys and Julian Looman from Mallorca Files

Mallorca has found its position on the global film stage thanks to the constantlyevolving Evolution! Mallorca International Film Festival that takes place every year.

Now in its 8th year, the film festival came back bigger and better than ever to showcase Mallorcan filmmakers and talent as well as internationally renowned directors, producers, and actors. The brainchild of Sandra Seeling Lipski, the festival has now become one of the most anticipated events on Mallorca’s calendar.

The events took place over five days with film screenings, premieres, workshops and events with the movers and shakers of the film and TV world taking part.

One of the most anticipated premieres was for the BBC drama, Mallorca Files, that has been filmed in various locations around the island and has generated quite a buzz amongst residents. The stars of the show, Elen Rhys and Julian Looman, gave interviews and a Q&A about the show at the Cineciutat after the premiere.

Another star that graced our shores for the festival was renowned British filmmaker and Oscar winner, Asif Kapadia, who is known for the Amy Winehouse documentary, Amy, that he came to discuss with the guests of the film festival. The documentary became the highest-grossing documentary 34 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

of all time in the United Kingdom.

Port Adriano played host to a drive-in cinema, an experience reminiscent of many a movie in itself, and showed films such as Kill Bill Volume 1, Easy Rider, and When Harry Met Sally. Kids were also entertained with several films shown at the Cineciutat there were child-friendly.

The film festival also welcomed a delegation of Chinese filmmakers to the island to create synergy between China and Mallorca as well as show them the endless possibilities that the island has to offer as a filming location. Chinese film, The Priestess, also premiered at the Cineciutat on Monday.

After all of the premieres, workshops and events, the festival closed with the closing night film, Pullman, and an award ceremony to hand out the prizes to the worthy winners before the cocktail party got underway at the Gerhard Braun Gallery. The Celebrity Team were lucky enough to go along and mingle with the actors, producers and filmmakers and enjoy the cocktails and gins that flowed throughout the evening.

Evolution! Mallorca International Film Festival is continually growing and more and more people await this fantastic event every year - we can’t wait to see what 2020 will bring!

Evolution Vision 2019: Asif Kapadia Evolutionary Award 2019: Lena Headey Evolutionary Award 2019: Guy Nattiv Best Film: ’Love cuts’, by Costa Djordjevic Best Director: Richard Wong, for “Come as you Are” Best Actor: Grant Rosenmeyer (“Come as you are”) Best Actress: Kristina Jovanovic (“Love cuts”) Special mention: Li Jinming (“Priestess”)* Best Script: Barbara Daniel for Damaged Goods Best Documentary Film: Gina Hole Lazarowich, for ‘Krow’s Transformation Special mention: Nata Moreno for “Ara Malikian: A Life Among Strings “ Best Documentary Short Film: ’Campesinos’, by Matias Bolla Best Fiction Short Film: ‘F**k you’, by Anette Sidor Best Short Film - Made in Baleares: ‘Playboys’, by Roxanne Paisan Best Documentary Short Made in Baleares: ‘Suitcase of Madame Colette’, by Joan Bonet Best Music Video: Oren Lavie for “Second-hand Lovers” and Alina Maria Rancier for “Ay, Ay, I” Special mention: Alexandra Gascón for “Que Calor!”

Evolutionary Island Award: Lene Borch Hansen and Anna Von Lowzow, for Joern Utzon: The Man and the Architect’.

NEWS & EVENTS

Nikki Beach Red Party Photos: Vicki McLeod

After successive promotions the team has an uphill battle ahead The well-heeled and glamorous residents of Mallorca quite literally painted the town red for the Nikki Beach’s Closing Red Party on September 28th. The swanky beach club pulled out all of the stops to end the season with a bang. The strictly red dress code did not deter people from dressing up in their finest clobber to sip on the champagne that was flowing from kick-off at noon and throughout the evening.

Musicians, DJs and dancers entertained the crowds as the dancefloor become flooded with red bodies bopping to the music.

The party went on until the early hours and will certainly be an event that will be remembered for all of the right reasons.

Until next year Nikki Beach‌...

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 35

NEWS & EVENTS

Arg and Albie at Stadium 63 James ‘Arg’ Argent from TOWIE joins Mallorca’s Albie Davies at Stadium 63 Photos: Vicki McLeod, Text by Ben Mulvey

Calvia residents descended on Stadium 63 for an evening with The Only Way Is Essex star, James ‘Arg’ Argent who joined Albie Davies on stage to perform a few numbers for the crowd. After a ‘hell of a week’, Arg took to the stage to perform a few numbers and told the crowd: “‘Ladies and gentlemen, my name is James ‘Arg’ Argent. It’s been a hell of a week for me, it’s been a tough week but I’m so glad to be here tonight.

You’ve really all cheered me up,” after a week of difficult press coverage in the UK. Local talent, Albie Davies belted out some

36 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

songs to get the audience going and his impressive vocal talents did not falter for a second. His powerful set of lungs have been entertaining audiences in Mallorca for some time with regular gigs around the island and his performance at Stadium 63 was no exception. Arg joined Albie to sing a few crooner songs including ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ and ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You’ to an excited crowd and moved around the room dancing with and serenading the ladies. The pair performed a few songs together before Arg left the stage to mingle with the crowd.

The evening continued with some more music from Albie as the drinks flowed and the dancefloor filled. It was a great night with lots of familiar faces catching up and chatting, dancing and singing along with Albie and then the DJ as Arg moved around the room for photos and a chat. Arg is a regular visitor to Mallorca and told me that he loves coming here and wants to come back more often and to perform with Albie. “Albie and I are keen to perform at weddings and events here (in Mallorca),” he said and they would certainly be a great addition to any party.

SPORTS

Real Mallorca - Back in the big time After successive promotions the team has an uphill battle ahead

By Alex Fitzpatrick

Celebrity is delighted to welcome Alex Fitzpatrick as a contributing editorial writer.

Having worked as a Director of Sport and senior leader in both UK and international schools for 15 years, Alex is currently following a dream, working as a freelance sports journalist. So far this has taken him into the depths of the press areas in some of Spain’s top stadiums such as La Mestalla in Valencia and the Camp Nou in Barcelona.

In a short time, he has come face to face with greats of the game such as Lionel Messi, Diego Simeone and Zinedine Zidane. He maintains a weekly presence in post-match Real Mallorca press conferences.

Currently, he writes weekly La Liga previews for www.football-espana.net , a weekly column about RCD Mallorca every Wednesday on www.rcdm.es, and is a regular contributor to the internationally acclaimed podcast, ‘La Liga Lowdown’, on all things RCD Mallorca and La Liga in general (@LaLigaLowdown on Twitter and available for free on Apple and on Android).

You can follow him on Twitter at @ Mallorcalex100 where he posts daily about RCD Mallorca and La Liga which includes written opinion, video previews, opposition analysis and match day build-up.

Where can I get tickets for RCD Mallorca?

The club website (www.rcdmallorca. es) is the online gateway for purchasing merchandise and match day tickets. Tickets are available via an external partner (https:// entrees.es/busqueda/rcdmallorca) with costs varying depending on the opponent.

Prices start from around €15 for children and €40 for adults. A print-at-home option is also available.

In 2017, RCD Mallorca was taken over by American owners in what has proved to be the springboard for their current success.

However, it hasn’t always been a fairy tale.

Within months of the takeover, the club had fallen from the Segunda (second) tier of Spanish football into what is known is

Spain as ‘The Well’. The third tier of Spanish football, the Segunda B, consists of four divisions of 20 teams. It gets its nickname, ‘The Well’, because once you fall into it, it is notoriously difficult to climb out.

However, climb out is exactly what Mallorca did and at the first time of asking. The club were savvy and recruited Valencian Vicente Moreno, who had taken Gimnastic to promotion to the Segunda two years previously as head coach. They were quick to add experience and quality to the squad with, amongst others, Salva Sevilla who had, until then, been playing in La Liga with Espanyol.

Mallorca then embarked on their return to the Segunda.

Expectations were for a solid season and survival before building again, but CEO Maheta Molango had helped to build a squad who could compete. Given the building blocks, Moreno moulded them skilfully into a resolute side who were difficult to beat at home. The side finished the season beaten only twice at Son Moix and, were it not for their dreadful form away from the island, would have finished in an automatic promotion place.

Fifth position last season earnt the side a place in the promotion play-offs, the teams in third to sixth position playing each other to decide who would make it to the promised land of Spain’s top division, La Liga. After defeating a tough Albacete over two legs, Mallorca made their way to the final, just two games away from a return to their goal.

Deportivo La Coruña, one of Spain’s most historic clubs, stood in their way. In the first leg, it could not have gone much worse.

A player sent off just before half time for a horror tackle and a late goal conceded meant that Mallorca went home with a twogoal deficit to overturn. At the end of the game, local Mallorcan striker Abdon Prats gesticulated to the fans that they got two, we’ll get three. Where there was still belief, there was still hope. Where everything had gone wrong in Coruña, everything went right at Son Moix. Striker Ante Budimir got the ball rolling in the first half, before Salva Sevilla got his reward for trusting in Mallorca and dropping down to play in the Segunda

B, his free kick fired into the corner of the goal. Mallorca believed, the reinforcements came, and they took advantage of Deportivo La Coruña’s hesitancy. The story was written for Abdon Prats, days earlier lifting the spirits of the fans, this time sending them into rapture, curling the ball into the top corner from the outside of the box.

The final whistle blew and the Deportivo La Coruña players sank to the knees as the Mallorca fans flooded onto the pitch to celebrate with their heroes, carried aloft.

Scenes of jubilation and disbelief for the fans who had endured the hardest of decades.

Mallorca were back in La Liga after a seven year absence.

The road to salvation was long and hard for Real Mallorca, but the hard work has just begun. The club has the lowest wage budget of all teams in La Liga and, just two seasons prior, were preparing for life in the Segunda B. Much of the starting 11 from the Segunda B remain despite 14 signings in the summer.

Japanese sensation Takefuso Kubo has joined on loan from Real Madrid, seeing an increase in Japanese visitors and press to games in both Mallorca and on the mainland.

Outside of that, the core of the promotionwinning team has been maintained, they deserve their chance but will have to hold nothing back to stand a chance of survival.

The season will be one of regular setbacks and defeats, but Mallorca fans also hope that it is a fairy tale return, one in which there is a happy ending. The club will need to amass between 35 and 40 points to stay in the top division with the majority of them to be earnt at Son Moix. If Mallorca can stay up, it would be one of, if not the most, incredible story in recent La Liga history. Whatever happens, enjoy the ride.

Coming up - Key games: Jan/Feb (All dates are weekend of Fri/Sat/Sun - exact date and time tbc by La Liga usually within 4 weeks of the game) 3/4/5th Jan 17/18/19th Jan 24/25/26th Jan 31/1/2nd Feb 7/8/9th Feb 14/15/16th Feb 21/22/23rd Feb 28/29/1st March

Away vs Granada Home vs Valencia Away vs Real Sociedad Home vs Real Valladolid Away vs Espanyol Home vs Deportivo Alaves Away vs Real Betis Home vs Getafe

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 37

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It’s always sad as we officially say adios to sunbathing, sangria and the scorching sun, but this doesn’t mean we can take our eye off the fitness ball, we are just changing from beach wear to funky, fun and ‘fit as’ festive wear!

The time is now, blow the dust from your gym wear and get active. It can be hard to motivate yourself especially when the mornings and evenings get darker and the sofa feels so good. A great way to jump aboard the fitness wagon is to train with other people and boot camps are the perfect answer to train as a team.

Enter Body and Mind Mallorca who are the perfect answer to our LBD Christmas prayers!

Jose and his team, have a wealth of training knowledge between them including one on one, boot camp, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, massage and new and old trends. Fitness is a passion for this dynamic team who really do push you through your paces “No Pain, No Gain!”, but always with

warmth, encouragement and, in my case, the occasional laugh too.

Like me, the guys love a little action outdoors… it’s exciting and fun with the benefits of fresh air and beautiful Mallorca backdrops. The best beaches and mountain views provide the gym space and using an array of the ultimate training gear and trends including TRX (suspension training),

N.R.G (functional training) and Kettlebell (fat burning and core training), means you will soon notice improvements in your body and overall energy levels too. Training with Body and Mind Mallorca is like opening a pack of Pringles, once you pop you won’t stop!

So get ready to score your own fitness goals and contact bodyandmindmallorca.com It is so important to treat your body too a bit of TLC especially after training and also extremely festive to treat others too. Look no further than Bodhana which means wellness, consciousness and spiritual growth, run by Chetana and her talented team. All I can say is the treatments they provide are pure heaven on earth!

So wishing you all the best for this festive time and whatever your tipple is, remember the glass is always half full… if it’s not then top it up!

Cheers!

38 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Ayesha xx

SPORTS

ATP Tournament 2020 Santa Ponça will become the site of a men’s ATP tournament from 2020 on, offering important points for the ATP rankings and 900.000 Euro in prize money.

The ATP event is coming back to Mallorca 17 years after the last edition of an ATP event on the island. This is the first ever ATP event to be held on grass in Spain, traditionally known as a clay court country. But things change and the Mallorca Championships is the new tennis product of Spain.

The first player to be announced and confirmed is Spanish tennis star Feliciano Lopez “I am very excited to be here today in Mallorca announcing that I will play this tournament. It is like a dream to play on grass and to play it at home” said current Queen’s singles and doubles (with Andy Murray) champion. “I am sure a lot of players will come and play here since the conditions are perfect to play on grass” Edwin Weindorfer, CEO of E|Motion group, promoter of the event announced the total prize money of the event, the third highest on the ATP250 category and the highest European: “We have a 900,000 euro prize money in place and we expect to increase it in the next year to a 1,000,000 euro mark level which is something big. We will continually develop the tournament in Mallorca in the coming

Now we need the support from the crowds that hopefully will respond positively to this event.”

The 29th of April of 2002 was an important day for tennis. On that day a 15 year old kid named Rafa Nadal won his first ATP match and it was in Calviá, Mallorca. Will we have the chance to see a new Nadal? years and Santa Ponca is the perfect setting for that. I want to thank Wimbledon for their great support of our tennis commitment in Mallorca”.

In addition, there is big news for the ATP Mallorca Championships. The event will be the first grass court ATP event to play evening matches under artificial light. In the words of Weindorfer, “this Is outstanding news as it will allow a fantastic evening atmosphere and social and lifestyle experience on site.”

Toni Nadal will be the Tournament Director: “I am sure the players will choose Mallorca to play that week. The prize money is good, the conditions are perfect, Mallorca is always attractive being a great destination and we are ready to have a very professional event.

Key Facts about the tournament: Place: MALLORCA | Country Club Santa Ponsa, Calvia Date: 20-27th June 2020 Category: ATP 250 Event Prize Money: € 900.000 History: After hosting four editions of a WTA International event, with the participation of Top Stars such as Maria Sharapova, Angelique Kerber, Garbiñe Muguruza, Ana Ivanovic, and more, Mallorca is getting ready for the first Grass court ATP Event ever played in Spain.

LIFE CONFIDENCE IS THE FOUNDATION TO YOUR SUCCESS

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Through her confidence coaching she has helped numerous people get out of their comfort zones and lead happier, healthier and wealthier lives.

This stems from her background in Personal Training, helping people to become stronger, physically and mentally. Travelling back to the UK often to work on the property development company she co-founded with her Mum, Paula Bailey, she is able to fully utilise social media and the internet to coach people internationally.

If you would like to be more confident in yourself, to do more with your life, get in touch today with the details on the right.

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LIFESTYLE

With over 300 days of sunshine in Mallorca, life is better spent outside.

And what better way to spend it than in a hot tub with a glass of bubbles in hand?

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by Ben Mulvey

otspring Mallorca have been providing the best hot tubs on the island for over seven years and offer a wide selection of spas for any home or garden. As the only official Hotspring supplier in Mallorca they sell only genuine hotspring spas and offer full installation and a two to five years warranty with every new hot tub.

David and Martin set up the business seven years ago and offer a fully consultative experience and will advise you on which hot tub would be best for you. They will look at any project and partner with a building company to make your dream a reality whether you wish to sink the tub into the ground, install it on your courtyard, or build it in to fit with your decor.

Many of their clients have chosen a hot tub for their property as they do not have the planning permission, or don’t want the headache of obtaining it, to build a swimming pool. All Hotspring hot tubs are completely portable meaning that no planning permission is needed. They are easy and quick to install, easy to fill and empty and simple to maintain.

“The best way to enjoy a hot tub is to grab a beer or a glass of champagne and look at the stars,” says David, one of the owners of the company and we agree!

Hotspring work island-wide and will be able to offer you advice on which hot tub would suit you and your home and promise a quick turn-around.

Pop into their showroom in Alcúdia or visit their website for a look at their hot tubs.

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BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

by Hamish Goddard

DARK AND STORMY Sadly not the cocktail - and they say that lightning never strikes twice, which I can say is something of an untruth this week and one to which anyone local on the island in November will attest, with perhaps the most remarkable thunderstorm we’ve had in 20 years.

Like a constantly flickering distant (and often not so distant...) lightbulb for an uninterrupted two full hours, it was truly spectacular and solace of a kind to my cold and soaked family - here en masse for half term - that they got to see and hear it.

They wouldn’t have had that opportunity watching a beautiful sunset on a balmy autumn evening - and it was terrific fun for the kids... So let’s keep whatever tenuous grip we can on the positives…

various quays, mostly for sale but otherwise on show to demonstrate the talents at the absolute top of the industry in both design and build. The yachts are accompanied by shore exhibitors showing the latest services and technical hardware that supports the industry - ourselves at e3 Systems included.

The perennial problem of the show is not whether there is a reception to go to but which champagne-fuelled reception on which champagne-laden mega-yacht, adding more bubbles to this particular bubble in which we find ourselves each September.

I profess to loving Monaco for its old classic wealth and its new money excesses. I don’t

believe there was a car amongst the 17 or so parked outside the Monaco Yacht Club that was less than a quarter of a million euros, which is actually a bit of a snip compared to some of the yachts in the harbour - my design favourite being the new 80m motor yacht Excellence - costing around €200m and available for charter at €1.2m/week plus expenses.. I told you that gorgeous Ferrari 488 Pista was cheap... Excellence is a startling design, with its Dreadnought bow and huge glazed areas either side of its main interior foyer - and one feels that if someone is going to spend €200m on a yacht, then make it stand out and look a bit different from the others - which this one most certainly does.

It’s that time of year though, with early September being much the same - the first two weeks loudly whistling in the end of summer with some cracking storms and a rare pair of tornados whirling and twisting off our coastline and trashing a few boats, before it all cheered up again.

MONACO YACHT SHOW

Motor Yacht Excellence

Which was just as well, as at the end of the month, off I went with e3 Systems to the annual Monaco Yacht Show - and who would want the First World problem of doing that in the rain?!

This is a spectacular show - Monaco needing little introduction as a spectacular place to hold it - with Port Hercule itself like a floating palace with a skirting board of mind-blowing Superyachts around the 42 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Monaco Yacht Show - evening reception on MY Amadea

Monaco Yacht Show - Port Hercule

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

Summer Classic Car Show Photo: Adrian Gillet

Monaco - particularly the harbour area - almost acts as an exhibition facility in which many wealthy people happen to live, who either scoot out of town for the big events or get a free entry. In the case of the yacht show, the tickets were €300 (compared to Palma’s €15) so it was nice that on the Saturday, the locals got to come in free of charge, kick some tyres and allow their kids to run off with a million occasionally obscure (for a child) marine industry freebies.

PUERTO PORTALS TP52 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

TP 52 World Championships - Porto Portals

TP 52 World Championships 2 - Porto Portals

I confess to always being more impressed than aesthetically moved by motor yachts - my background being sailing so it was a bit of a treat that just prior to Monaco, Mallorca hosted the TP52 World Championships out of their regular Super Series base of Porto Portals.

Sailing yachts - particularly race boats - have a grace and power that is rarely applicable to their motor driven cousins and the TP52 class is one of the premier Grand Prix yachting circuits, where the world’s very best sailors compete against each on what is largely a level playing field, the boats being designed to a ‘box rule’ or dimensional and stability limits within which they must keep - freeing up the design shape itself and therefore racing without any handicap system. First over the line gets the cream.

Again we chased in our trusty RIB, occasionally touching 20 knots to keep up and watched the Germans on Platoon triumph over the Italians on Azzura by a couple of points during a week which threw every kind of weather at the fleet, dismasting the young Turks on Provezza and causing a few postponed races.

As it was, chasing these colourful boats is always a thrill and we are again lucky that our island’s superb facilities, both on and off the water, keep attracting rock star sailors and the most important regattas to our own back yard.

MALLORCA CLASSIC WEEK Jumping ashore, the 4th Mallorca Classic Week - an annual gathering of beautifully presented classic cars took place at Port Adriano at the end of September and from this base, arranged tours or individual drives all over the island during the week, culminating with a Classic Festival and Concours d’Elegance on the Saturday - and a not too serious ‘Crime Drive’ on Sunday.

This led the participants off to scenic areas under the title ‘Desde Rusia Con Amor’ - which sounds even sexier in Spanish - won by no less than the ebullient HRH Prince Leopold of Bavaria and his pretty wife Princess Ursula. You couldn’t make it up... “Ah, Prince Leopold, we have been expecting you…”

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 43

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES Whilst it’s not Pebble Beach or Villa D’Este quite yet - and unlikely ever to be so - a huge amount of effort goes into this event and it’s a colourful and worthy addition to the classic car scene on the island, attracting many spectators and local children, who also got to compete in the first Kettcar Grand Prix around the marina car park.

On a feistier note, Driving Mallorca’s latest blast from Inca to Cap Formentor attracted no less than 40 cars - and an eclectic mix they were of Ferraris, Porsches, Cobras et al - even a Tesla Model 3 - and whatever the collective noun is for a large quantity of Abarth 595s, fast becoming the hot hatch of choice for the island. Please contact the club through its Club Driving Mallorca Facebook page if you would like to join one of these drives in your ‘fast or interesting’ car…

MALLORCA 6-POINTS Hovering over my computer, I was trying to buy tickets to the Glastonbury Festival (which I didn’t get, selling out all 150,000 tickets in less than 30 minutes..) and was advised to do the same for the Mallorca 312 Cyclosportive that takes place each Spring and which sold out within a day.

There is an almost unquenchable demand for organised long distance cycling events on the island, bringing a huge number of questionably dressed but typically affluent and well-behaved riders to Mallorca every year, providing lucrative parentheses to the normal summer season of glistening sun worshippers and Magaluf balcony jumpers. It’s hugely important for the island economy and extends the high summer season each side well into Spring and Autumn - and particularly important to the hotels and local restaurants this year 44 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

after the unfortunate demise of Thomas Cook.

6-Points Mallorca

The Mallorca 312 is a brutal ride - 312km in a single day, albeit with a couple of bailing points so that shorter distances of 225 and 167km can be opted for spontaneously if the legs - and equally the bums – are starting to fade or burn respectively. However, is this the best way to properly enjoy some of the best cycling roads in Europe?

Last year in May, I took part in the Mallorca 6-Points; a 400Km ride over the course of three days to the most extreme N, E, S and W compass points reachable by bicycle, plus the highest and lowest points at Puig Major and the Ses Salines lighthouse (ticking both boxes of the lowest and southernmost point), personally raising in the process close to €1000 of the €30,000 or so that went to the officially supported local charity Asdica – assisting children and adults with learning difficulties on the island.

Whilst the 312 is described as a ‘supported ride’, in reality this amounts to little more than feed stations (bananas and flat Coke..), signage and start/finish lines, whereas the Mallorca 6-Points is a full-on

social event over the course of three days, where the opportunities to enjoy the island occasionally below one’s lactate threshold are obviously greater and a camaraderie that builds through the course of the ride in a way that is never possible with a one day killer event.

The 312 and the Mallorca 6-Points are fundamentally different to compare on a like-for-like basis, but if riding every corner of this beautiful island appeals, then the 6-Points is for you – and unlike the 312, entries for the event in May 2020 are still available through the website, something which is unlikely to remain the case for very long: www.6pointschallenges.com

TESTING TIMES… The latest Ducati superbike or the weird and wonderful Yamaha Niken 900…?

In the next issue, I will have tested one or other of these – or perhaps both; the unlaunched-as-yet Ducati, which neither I nor anyone else knows anything about yet (although we very much hope that it’s

Ducati V4R

a version of their recently launched and quite stunning 1000cc World Superbike homologation V4R with a slightly eyewatering price tag of €43,000…), or the

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

3-wheeled whacky Yamaha Niken 900 that looks as if was lifted from the Transformers movie but allegedly rides like a normal motorcycle. It certainly doesn’t look like one…

I look forward to telling you all about it in the next issue!

Driving Mallorca Outing Cap Formentor

Yamaha Niken 900

Ferrari 488 Pista.

Casino Square Monaco

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 45

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CELEBRITY MALLORCA MAGAZINE

HOMES AND PROPERTY Sponsored by

HOMES & PROPERTY

by Amanda Butler

Property Market Update The Brexit circus continues, now beyond the ‘no ifs or buts’ fright night date of October 31st, with Europe granting what Donald Tusk has called a ‘flextension’ to the 31st of January, with the option to Brexit prior to this should we finally come to a majority parliamentary decision.

So three more months of the same no doubt.

Why we can’t admit that perhaps we Brits were mistaken with a glut of disingenuous campaigning leading up to the referendum – perhaps on both sides – and have a second referendum now that people do actually know what they are voting for. To allow a first misinformed referendum and deny a second seems a little absurd.

The result may well be the same, but there could be little argument in these circumstances that the result would be informed and logical, rather than misinformed and emotional – leading to a greater acceptance on each side of the argument and allow the opportunity for the country to heal through what has been a damaging process. We’re all fed up of it – evidenced by SKY’s new ‘Brexit Free’ news channel. At the moment, it’s a little like a rushed engagement after which the spouse-to-be starts displaying multiple unattractive personalities, not apparent initially, but being forced to go ahead because one had accepted the proposal in the first place!! Really?!

With official figures released by the Institute of Real Estate Agents showing there was a 21.9% decrease in property sales in the Balearics in July 2019 compared with July 2018, with similar results for August, there is no doubt Brexit is playing it’s part. This was the biggest fall in the whole of Spain, comparing to a 3.8% rise nationwide – the biggest since May 2008 apparently.

However, it can’t only be the drop in British purchases responsible for this dip in figures.

According to Natalia Bueno, the President of the Institute of Real Estate Agents, one of the main reasons for this decrease in numbers is that house prices in the Balearics are reaching a ceiling level. Figures will of course need to be compared for the whole year to get a full picture but, according to numerous real estate agency sources, the volume of enquiries for the peak summer months of July and August was down substantially for many agents. The institute has been declaring for some time that

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it is impossible to buy property at a reasonable price. For example, in the center of Palma there aren’t any decent apartments under 400,000 euros. Bueno recommends that some owners return from fantasy land and obtain genuine valuations, since properties offered at a sensible market price sell without any problem. The National Statistics Institute point to a moderation in prices reflecting the lowest quarterly rise since 2016.

There are certain regions or property types that go against this trend. Pollensa as a region is one area where some agent colleagues are declaring their best year since the 2008 crash. Another sector reporting continued high volume sales are the modern new build developments with sea views, which are always highly sought after.

Which leads me on to the subject of new developments. With limited land with building permissions, it’s actually quite surprising the number of new developments on sale in the Southwest - the most popular region of the island due to ease of access, proximity to Palma, the most concentrated facilities open all year round and also having the best weather on the island adds to the popularity.

APM is one such company, building ultraluxury developments, both apartments and villas. The Urban Jungle is a new project in San Agustin offering 5 four-bedroom townhouses of 600-650 sqm each, with sea views, private pool and a garden area. Prices start at €790.000 for the plots, with completed prices still to be confirmed. APM Suites are also developing in San Agustin, with a license for four luxurious garden and penthouse suites apartments, with prices on request.

Two luxury projects under the Elements brand for the DV Group include 25 luxury apartments in the Nova Santa Ponsa area, close to the sea, with many sold off plan and the remaining apartments starting at €1.6 million. There is also Elements Puerto Portals, described as a conceptual design project that combines the four elements; earth, fire, water and air as a theme through its 31 luxury residences. A 24hour concierge service and spa facilities, and being within walking distance to both Puerto Portals and the village of Portals Nous makes these a highly attractive prospect. Eleven by Elements is a seven apartment community in Cas Català, with modern, cubist architecture

overlooking the Bay of Palma. Prices start at 2m.

Another exciting new development is by Pinnacle Homes’s Na Burguesa , an exclusive elevated area in Genova, just 10 minutes from Palma with stunning views of the Bay. 12 homes are being built consisting of three luxury penthouses, two duplexes and seven apartments, with prices starting in the region of €2 million.

These are but of few of the wide array of luxury offerings in the Southwest. For more information about these properties, or if you require assistance with selling or buying a property, you can contact Amanda on ajb@mjcassociates.net or tel: +34690075169.

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Like a rare and exotic flower, this contemporary house sits at the heart of an antique tropical garden. Clusters of ancient palm trees shade the luxuriant lawns from the heat of the Mallorcan sun.Based on a design by Pedro Otzoup, one of Mallorca's most renowned architects, this rare single storey house offers panoramic views of the sea and distant mountains. Four double bedrooms, all en-suite, a spacious open plan kitchen and living area flow effortlessly into an inside / outside experience on all sides.This exquisite house occupies the largest plot in the street and was chosen especially for its position by wealthy art dealers in the 1960s to build the original house.

There is no shortage of space outside with parking for at least 8 vehicles, including the double garage and the double car port.The beautifully designed, separate barbecue space allows diners to look over the contemporary swimming pool into the mountains and the sea.The crowning glory of this exclusive house is the huge roof terrace with its own contemporary kitchen and the 360 degree views of the surrounding landscape.

Restored and reformed, regardless of cost, this property represents an outstanding opportunity to live on one level on one of the great plots of Santa Ponsa in Mallorca.

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We have over 30 years experience offering a professional and reliable service to our valued customers. We provide the full spectrum of services - from Kitchen and Bathroom Refurbishments to Complete Apartment and Villa Reforms. Lifestyle Building Solutions guarantee all our work is done to the highest standard, with quality materials, by our team of qualified and experienced builders.

Quality Fitted Kitchens

Designer Bathrooms

This was a great renovation project transforming an old golf villa situated on Las Abubillas in Santa Ponsa Golf into something really special.

The project was carried out over an agreed six month period with the owners who along with myself had full input in choosing all of the materials before the work was due to start, insuring that the project ran smoothly.

It was a complete renovation of the property both inside and out including re-modelling of the interior along with new bathrooms,kitchen,floors,windows etc and a new pool,terraces,BBQ and gardens to the exterior.

The project was completed on time and to the owners and my own satisfaction.

We were introduced to Carl Flay by a friend in Mallorca.

We had recently bought a 3-bedroom villa on the Abubillas 11 complex which was desperately in need of modernising.

We met Carl in October 2018 and set about looking at what was needed to be done – knowing that we had heard how things tend to go on the Island.

By the end of October, we had a plan and Carl promised we would be in by April 2019 as long as we had decided on all the major items, Tiles, bathrooms, kitchen.

True to his word Carl has delivered and we were delighted to move in on time in April – on time and on budget.

During the process we visited 3 times to check on progress and to understand how much work was going into our new Mallorca home.

He kept us updated at all times with monthly photographic updates.

We would highly recommend his services and his input during the process helped us avoid costly mistakes which can happen on a project of this magnitude.

The standard and quality of the work has exceeded our expectations and the way he and his team of loyal workers have dealt with the evitable small snags has been exemplary and has only increased of feelings of how much they care for their clients.

It has been an absolute joy and has made a potentially stressful experience a breeze!!

One word of warning! watch out for Carl’s flamboyant choice of shirts - sunglasses recommended.

Gerald & Carol Price

Photo courtesy of Palma Vela

Carrer d’en Blanes, 1, 2 & 3 Portals Nous, Calvia 07181

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Luxury collection

6-8

3

460 m²

2.010 m² Direct access to the sea

2.900.000 € cala vinyas

romeo

4

4+2

316 m²

912 m²

Sea Views

5.900.000 €

Santa Ponsa

Email: info@calviaproperties.com www.calviaproperties.com

location, location, location

4

3

500 m²

ref: 1520 | 1.695.000 €

son feriol

6

3

140 m² pool comunity ref: 1575 | 382.000 €

sol de mallorca

3

9.300 m²

3

185 m²

costa de la calma

317m² ref: 1637 | 358.000 €

3

6-8

460 m²

ref: 1568 | 2.600.000 €

santa maria

1

1

40 m²

4

santa ponsa

private garden ref: 1619 | 199.000 €

santa ponsa

4

2.010 m²

450 m²

1.340 m² ref: 1656 | 2.550.000 €

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Christmas market'19

mercado de navidad del 5 al 15 de diciembre de 12:00 a 23:30 horas compras navideñas · música en vivo nieve artificial · gastronomía actividades infantiles · coros

entrada

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5 € · niños hasta 12 años gratis · incluye vino caliente ( glühwein )

pueblo español ,

55 · 07014 ·

palma de mallorca