Celebrity Mallorca issue 119

CELEBRITY MAGAZINE MALLORCA

2,95€ | ISSUE 119

In conversation with

John Cleese JANUARY BARNES Luxury blogger & influencer

Rafa Nadal: A Local Hero The journey from Manacor to world N° 1

ACCESS ALL AREAS The Producer Series

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES | GOLF - FINDING FAIRWAYS | SPORTS | HOMES & PROPERTY

PALMA GIN

Made from the island, for the island. www.mallorcadistillery.com

mallorcadistillery

PUBLISHER’S WELCOME

Publisher: Donna Suarez Tel. +34 602 531 676 email: donna@celebritymallorca.es Editor: Matthew Cull Tel. +34 684 169 261 email: matthew@celebritymallorca.es Entertainment & Branding Manager: Larrick Ebanks Tel. +34 664 033 490 email: larrick@celebritymallorca.es Feature Writer: Ben Mulvey Tel. +34 605 321 289 email: ben@celebritymallorca.es Soller Writer: ‘Soller Shirley’ Roberts Tel. +34 671 422294 sollershirley@celebritymallorca.es Advertising Executive: Lisa Murmann Tel. +34 691 150 008 email: lisa@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, Amanda O’Riordan

Hello, and welcome to Issue 119 of Celebrity Magazine Mallorca!

Spring seems to have sprung early this year in Mallorca so I hope you have been out and about enjoying the nice weather.

As we head into our first issue 2020 I certainly feel a real air of optimism, and as we celebrate our first take over year of this historic magazine Celebrity. We are also celebrating the partnership of Matthew Cull and Larrick Ebanks as Business Directors.

As any good business knows, success is down to the entire team. So we are thanking all of our writers for their wonderful contributions and interesting reads, and our advertising executives for their tireless efforts in helping to raise the awareness of Celebrity Magazine Mallorca, and of course last but not least - a BIG thank you to Stefan our graphic designer.

Thank you to all the people on social media that take the time to drop us a message. We appreciate your continued support, we really do, so please sit back, relax with a coffee or your favourite tipple and enjoy your read of this latest edition of Celebrity Magazine Mallorca.

See you soon.

Donna Suarez / celebritymagazinemallorca @celebritymagazinemallorca youtube.com/CelebrityMagazineTV

CELEBRITY MALLORCA MAGAZINE

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• Distribution to all the major ports in Mallorca and popular high-end spots around the island for relaxing and watching the world go by.

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We have a professional advertising team with many years of experience helping businesses of all sizes achieve excellent results and return on investment.

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Celebrity Magazine - 2003 Registered Title: DLPM - 1526 - 2003

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CELEBRITY

In Conversation with John Cleese

By Larrick Ebanks

“I’m a living legend, and I’m a national institution, and I’m a comedy icon, and I’m something else, but I can’t remember what it was” “Hi Larrick, call John at the Four Seasons Hotel in Miami at 15:30 (Mallorca time)” is the memo I received from John Cleese’s people. Whilst receiving personal emails from John saying, “Dear Larrick, how are my ticket sales doing in Mallorca?” I was very happy to hear from the man himself and started to plan my interview with this British legend and national treasure. His legacy and career is well documented on the internet so I decided that I did not want to regurgitate the same stories that have been told before.

John Cleese is almost eighty-one years of age and still hopping on planes all over the world, bringing humour and laughter to the masses. I wanted to know what it is that still motives him to tour and to have a chat about his whereabouts since “leaving” the UK.

completely crazy, and has been going crazy for some years. And I think the most intelligent thing to do is to separate from it, but there aren’t any nice fincas on Mars”.

[Larrick laughs] John has a valid point, which is one of the reasons why I never watch television to see this madness that he is referring to being played out for the masses.

John continues to talk about political matters with a hint of slapstick humour which makes the topic of Brexit a little easier to digest.

Talking to John, I feel a real sense of how comedy truly affects our wellbeing, and that is a real honour to have Britain’s funny man on the other end of the phone.

John: “The reason why I’m still touring is, when you have to pay 20 million dollars in

a divorce, and you’ve been working for the BBC all your life, which is like working for charity, it takes a little bit of time to pay the 20 million off. [laughs] So performing live is the best way of doing it because I don’t understand television anymore and it has a lot of people in charge who don’t know what they’re doing. And the nice thing about being on stage is that you just walk in front of an audience, as they did 2000 years ago in Greece and try and make them laugh”.

“I am quite seriously looking to buy a property in Mallorca at the moment where it’s fairly warm most of the time and where there is a culture that I really like and where I can sit still, and do a lot of writing, which is what really interests me”.

Larrick: Before going out on tour, is there any rigorous training, rituals or rehearsing that is required?

As I call the hotel, I am greeted by a friendly, familiar voice that I recognised in tone from our email conversations and it is clear that John is keen to be interviewed. I tell to John that it feels as though we could just as well be in the local pub, having this conversation over a pint. I am struck by John’s sharp wit and quickly reminded that the awards and accolades ‘do not maketh the man’, but that authentic expression is what truly engages and connects us as people.

After exchanging pleasantries, John explains that his trip to Miami is due to an abrupt change to his filming schedule in Canada where the director had to be taken to hospital, so John decided to take a short break to Miami, to avoid the British winter and political circus that is Brexit.

Larrick: Where does your drive come from John? What keeps you motivated and still touring?

John: “Well it comes mainly from the fact that I’ve decided that the world has gone CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 5

CELEBRITY

John: “I’ve been doing these shows now for ten years so I’ve written, during that time, a great deal of material. I’ve probably got four hours of very good material. It does take a great deal of discipline, because at 80, although I’m much more craftier than I used to be, I don’t have as much energy as I used to have, so the travelling is the least pleasant part so I also get a lot of rest”.

I mention his down-to-earth approach and how endearing it is, and that of the Monty Python cast in general.

John: “That’s very nice of you to say, but I don’t think it boils down to any moral superiority, I think we are quite intelligent people and we know that we’re good at making people laugh, but we haven’t invented a cure to cancer - you see what I mean? I think there are so many people in show business, particularly singers now, who have no education at all, they think they are incredibly important, while we know we’re not.”

Larrick: I was reading comments about you on social media and people calling you a living legend, do you read any of the comments about yourself?

John: “I don’t really, no! [laughs] I go on Twitter now and again when there’s something on my mind. Yesterday I was spending a lot of time reading about Terry Jones, but the fact is, most of the stuff out there on the internet is not terribly interesting, but sometimes I sit down and tweet in the evenings. I have this nice feeling that there are people out there listening, it’s like having an audience that I can’t see, and 6 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

I tweet something, and I suddenly see there are a lot of people love it.

As I re-affirm how modest he is and that he is a legend, John interrupts my flow...

John: “ I’m a living legend, and I’m a national institution, and I’m a comedy icon, and I’m something else, but I can’t remember what it was. [laugh] We both laugh at this lighthearted comment that shows that John does not take himself too seriously.

Larrick: Is there a script that you turned down and wished you hadn’t?

John: “ Yes, ‘The Remains Of The Day’ in which I would have played the butler.

(The part Anthony Hopkins went on to play alongside Emma Thompson and James Fox).

Larrick: Any others?

John: Yes, I had to miss ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ starring Steve Martin and Michael Cain which I was very sad about.

Larrick: Really! What happened there, John?

John: “What happened was that my second marriage was in such a mess and I just finished filming ‘A Fish Called Wanda’, racing all over the world to publicise that and I thought I can’t accept this film, I have to go back to London and find out whether my marriage is over. So I went back and found out that it was. [laughs] The other one was The Birdcage, they wanted me to do the Robin Williams part.

Our conversation runs way over the 25 minutes granted for this interview, during which time John’s wife has now entered his room with some cough medicine and a cup of coffee. John shares with me that her nickname is Fish, I ask if this is a reference to ‘A Fish Called Wanda’ perhaps?, We both laugh as he explains that she is an excellent swimmer and has been mistaken for Daryl Hannah from the movie ‘Splash’. John then tells me that Fish also speaks dolphin, as she breaks out into a high dolphin screeching sound in the background. We all laugh together.

As we start rounding up the interview, I ask John if he believes in an afterlife and God? John: “Yes I do, and that’s not religious at all, it’s a pure matter of science and if you read anything by Bruce Greyson, you will be persuaded that there is simply stuff that you can’t explain in words.

Larrick: And your final thoughts on Terry Jones?

John: “Very sad. We suddenly heard about his dementia and I met him at a funeral about a couple of years ago. I think he recognised me, but there was no normal communication in words, and so it wasn’t a surprise, it was a shock, you know what I mean. But I think people liked my comment at the end, two down, four to go.

We exchange our goodbyes as John invites me to come and say hello backstage when he is in Mallorca.

I conclude the interview by telling him that the world is a funnier place with him in it.

John Cleese will be appearing at The Auditorium De Palma De Mallorca April 16, 2020.

NEWS & EVENTS

By Ben Mulvey

SPRING IS BLOOMING ON MALLORCA Spring on Mallorca is perhaps one of the best times of the year on the island - the weather is beginning to inch its way closer to the glorious summer months and lots of places start to open again after the winter season. There is so much going on at this time of year, we thought we would let you know what some of Celebrity’s favourite things to do in spring are…

FIRA DEL RAM - 28/02 - 28/03

Throughout spring, Mallorca’s biggest funfair sets up camp on the outskirts of Palma to entertain the kids (and thrillseeking adults!) and is a great way to spend a day and pass one of those long half-term days! A huge Ferris wheel, traditional funfair attractions, high-adrenaline rollercoasters and plenty of food stalls make this a great option for all ages.

XVI RALLY CLASICO PORTALS 12/03 - 14/04 Classic car aficionados should make this rally a permanent fixture in their diaries every year. The Rally Clasico Portals attracts rally drivers from all over Europe to take part in over 500km of courses around Mallorca. It is thrilling to watch all of the cars speeding around the island so get down to Portals and support the drivers and swoon over some beautiful cars.

ST PATRICK’S DAY - 17/03

Probably one of the most famous and widely celebrated events ever to come out of the Emerald Isle, St Patrick’s Day is also a big deal in Mallorca. A big festival is set up in Santa Ponsa, this year on the 22nd March with shamrocks everywhere and plenty of Guinness to be consumed! Lots of the Irish pubs around the island have their own events to celebrate the greenest day of the year so keep an eye on social media for upcoming events and offers.

MALLORCA 312 CYCLOSPORTIVE 25/04

Many of the beautiful coastal roads of Mallorca are closed for the day for this huge cycling event that brings over 8000 riders from all over the world to the island.

The 225km cycling route takes in some of the most stunning scenery that the island has to offer and the additional 60km makes this a true test of endurance for keen cyclists.

PALMA BOAT SHOW - 29/04 - 03/05

TROFEO PRINCESA IBEROSTAR 27/03 - 04/04

As one of the most prestigious regattas in the world, the Trofeo Princesa Iberostar comes back to the Bay of Palma for its 51st edition. With over 1000 people from 55 countries taking part, the sight of all of the sails on the horizon is something to behold.

As one of the biggest superyacht ports in the world, Palma hosts the huge Palma Boat Show every year. This year, the 37th edition of the show will attract even more superyachts, stunning boats and plenty of exhibitors from around the globe. Have a wander through the event to marvel at some of the biggest and most expensive boats in the world.

Aside from all of these fabulous events, there are plenty of restaurant and bar openings so keep an eye on the Celebrity website for the latest events around the island and enjoy this spectacular time of the year on our beautiful island.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 7

ACCESS ALL AREAS

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ACCESS ALL AREAS

by Larrick Ebanks: Music & Events Editor @larrickebanksofficial

ERROL ROSS MAN AT THE CONTROLS When you find out that your “badass singer friend” Carlene Graham is the daughter of Errol Ross, the music producer responsible for the production of an album that helped shape a generation, and, incidentally, was a soundtrack to my teens, you have to ask just the question, can I interview your dad?

The iconic black and white two-tone album label with a cool white guy, suited and booted, was a great way to defuse racial tensions in Thatcher-era Britain; by marrying the origins of ska music, a music style originally born in Jamaica, with British culture. Although ska, rocksteady and reggae had hit the British charts in the mid-’60’s and early ’70s with the likes of Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop”, Desmond Decker’s “Israelites”, Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff, this resurgence of ska music at the end of the ’70s and early’s ’80s was just as dynamic, if not more powerful than the first time around. I would highly recommend you check out; “The Story Of Two-Tone” The album in question is “Too Much and other similar videos on YouTube.

Pressure” by The Selector, an album that fuses traditional ska with elements of punk Other than producing music, Errol is a and new wave music and was first released singer and bass player and released his in 1980. The album reached number five in first soulful, funky album ‘Take It Easy the British charts on the back of their top On Yourself ’ on Ariola Records in 1979. ten hit single, “On My Radio” which was Constantly performing live with various released in 1979, followed by two top 20 band projects around Europe, I wanted hits: “Three Minute Hero” and “Missing to know more about the man behind the Words”. I remember when I first purchased controls so I asked him to be my Q&A guest this album, I quite literally wore the vinyl for this edition. out, and I’m still the proud owner of that original copy.

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ACCESS ALL AREAS

Q&A WITH ERROL ROSS 1. How did you get involved with music?

I started my musical career as a bass player with local bands in Coventry. In those days, most of the young black guys were into music, dancing and girls. The serious musicians saw music as a way to express their feelings about society, education and the lack of opportunities that were unavailable to us.

As a community, music was very important to us, it was our Social Media….we met, we danced and shared stories and news with other members of the community. The Jamaican parties and dance was something we all looked forward to and would travel to London, Birmingham or Manchester for a good party. During these times, I dreamed of being a top bass player and travelling around the world.

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

As a child, it was mainly ska and reggae played in our house. We would listen to the music of Prince Buster, Toots and The Maytals, Derick Morgan, The Pioneers and U Roy coming out of Jamaica and Fats Domino, Ray Charles, Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin coming out of the states. We listened to Reggae artists like Lee Perry, Bob Marley and the Wailers and Peter Tosh, to name but a few.

3. What artists inspired you during your childhood?

I was really inspired by bands like Earth Wind & Fire, Gapp Band, Frankie Beverley & Maze, as well as artists like Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, Tom Brown, and Quincy Jones for his musical productions and all the great artists that he has worked with.

4. As you now reside in Spain, what is the one thing you miss most about living in the UK? I have lived in London for many years and have experienced many things, some good, others not so good. I love the music culture, the great diversity of music on offer and the fact that you can visit so many pubs and music venues where you can find all types of music and nationalities, people and cultures. This mixture of music and people creates a vibrant society which allows you to find your own levels. If you want to hang out with the brothers or buy some soul food, you can do it easily in London. In this part of Spain where I live, musical culture is more limited or does not exist.

5. How would you best describe yourself?

I am an easy-going person, a thinking man, with a deep-rooted passion for music. I can be very social and outgoing and I equally enjoy my moments of meditation, tranquillity and reflection. I enjoy family time. I like to search for the opportunity in each of life’s moments. I am a creative soul, whose mind is always open to the next challenge or adventure! I love playing my original Fender Precision Bass and singing at parties and private functions. I love to share positive energy through live music and connect with people of all ages.

6. What is the greatest thing about producing a successful album?

There are many things that come together to create a great, successful experience. I mean, one minute you are a band of musicians and singers, creating music that you love in a rehearsal room or recording studio, the next thing your music is being played on the radio, you are invited to attend interviews, promotion videos and tour. Suddenly those industry doors which were closed begin to open for you. You start building a fan club of people who love your music and want to find out who you are. Waiting to know your chart position each week was also exciting. Personally achieving Silver and Gold disc awards from the music industry for over 100,000 record sales was a high point for me and a dream come true.

7. What is your favourite part about this line of work and your least?

My favourite part of music production is the creative process. People hear a 3-minute record, but they have no idea about the process and work involved in making it. Taking a band into a recording studio to record a single or an album can get very involved.

On one hand, you have the artist, who is sometimes the songwriter. From their perspective, it is all about creative freedom and artistic expression. Record companies are interested in budgets and records that will become smash hits. The producer is in the middle and have to get the best performances from the musicians, the artists and deliver the finished master to the record company on time, this is not an easy position to be in. I have experienced band members fighting and disagreeing about everything in the studio, artistic freedom and creative expressions that explodes the set recording budgets. This can waste a lot of valuable studio time and create bad vibes in the studio. If the producer doesn’t achieve the expected miracle recordings, then musicians, artists and record companies will blame the producer.

8. How do you view the music industry today?

The music industry today has changed a lot from my time, but so has life! A positive thing I see today, is 100% artistic freedom. The “cutting out of the middle man”, so to speak.

Independent artists have easily-accessible platforms and tools to create, perform, produce, mix, copyright and release their music worldwide, all from the comfort of their own homes. This is a great thing!

9. Tea or coffee?

I am a coffee drinker who likes to start my day with a good coffee. I also enjoy herbal teas during the day.

10. What is your favourite food?

You mean I have to choose just one food or dish?!

Well, as a man who was born in Kingston, Jamaica, I will never shy away from a nicely prepared Jamaican dish from time to time! I particularly enjoy fish. My fruits and veg are a key factor in my daily intake I love juicing & boosting my energy that way. I also love a good red wine and I enjoy the range of good tapas here in Almería!

11. What’s your favourite dessert?

Apple crumble & custard!

12. What is your alcoholic beverage of choice?

I enjoy a good red wine during the day and a rum at night.

13. What artists are you currently listening to?

One thing I think is fair to say, is that music goes round & round! Old school styles influence today’s music, samples and feels as well as artists reinventing themselves all the time.

Pharell Williams, Sia, Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars have stood out particularly over the last few years. I admire their innovation!

14. What is one of your favourite films?

Cool Runnings - 1988 Winter Olympics Jamaica sent an unexpected team to compete in the bobsleigh event.

15. What is one of your favourite songs?

This has to be “One Love” by Bob Marley 16. Which artist would you most like to collaborate with, dead or alive?

I would like to collaborate with Carlene Graham. I think that she is a true professional, has a great voice and exceptional performance energy. We share a love for the same type of music and production quality.

17. What is the best song you’ve ever released and why?

I can’t really say which was the best song that I’ve ever released because I approached all of them with the same care, love and energy. Some have moments and melodies resonate a little longer than others but music lovers of the world get to choose!

18. What emoji do you use the most?

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

Tracks by Transmission, my band from 1985 https://www.discogs.com/artist/1460146Transmission-8 20. What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Believe. Believe in you. Believe in your purpose.

Believe in your ability. Believe in your musicality.

Dream big. Stay true. And... LOVE. Never listen to the many critics around you, stay focused and never give up on your dreams!!

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 9

ACCESS ALL AREAS

BOB LAMB THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC DRUMMER - PRODUCER

In an age of social media frenzy and an “all eyes on me” philosophy, it’s easy to see why hit-making producers of the ’80s can get lost under the radar in these fame-obsessed times. Especially when you are a man with an unassuming nature and far from being the attention-seeking type. Bob Lamb is such a man, a former drummer of the Steve Gibbins Band turned producer for the likes of UB40, Stephen “Kiss Me” Duffy, and “Duran Duran”.

Having started his early productions from the confines of his bedroom, to fully realising his own studio in Birmingham’s Kings Heath, and naming it “Home Of The Hits”, Bob’s history is a rich musicology.

A passionate hippy type of gentleman, whose sole purpose is to create raw, honest music magic. I know this first hand as he managed my music career when I was just seventeen years young for a duration of 5 years . I wondered how such an establish musician could be so unaffected by fame. Even with the groundbreaking “Signing Off ” album by UB40, early production of Duran Duran’s “Planet Earth” and the huge success of Stephen ‘Tin Tin’Duffy’s “Kiss Me” under his belt, not to mention the many years of touring with The Steve Gibbons Band and supporting The Who, he showed no sign of being less than his authentic truth. He really is a

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grounded music lover, dancing to his own beat, opening up his studio doors to those of us looking for “that” music break and helping them in the process.

In recent years an album project recorded and released in ‘83 that included Bob Lamb and four of his muso friends named “The System” (not to be mistaken for the US band of same name) released an album called “Logic” has resurfaced over the internet. its a timeless synth, pop, rock album certainly worth checking out.

When you forget about the price tag on an artists career, to determine their worth and popularity, and just listen to the raw creation, you allow yourself

the pleasure to discover new undiluted ear porn by artists whose legacy is already out there, but simply needs more awareness directed towards their art.

Bob is absolutely worthy of many accolades for his contribution to music, yet, unless writers or artists like myself help to create the awareness, the story of the legendary Bob Lamb rarely gets heard.

A biography about his life may be more appropriate for such an amazing musician/producer…

Bob?

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

PEOPLE

January Barnes: luxury blogger and influencer The word ‘influencer’ has been used a lot more in day-to-day life over the last couple of years thanks to the emergence of Instagram and social media. An influencer curates photos, products and locations and showcases them through social media to inspire others to visit the same places or buy the same products.

Photo: Oscar Lagarrotxa @mallorca.in.love.

By Ben Mulvey

One such influencer is the charming and engaging, January Barnes, an Australian lifestyle blogger and influencer that I had the pleasure of speaking with about her work, her love of Mallorca and her role as an influencer. January runs an award-winning blog called January Diaries that focuses on luxury and high-end businesses and products. She has over 107,000 followers from all around the world that follow her to keep up with her travels and the interviews that she posts with influential people from different industries.

A quick scroll through January’s social media and you will see someone who takes great pleasure in travelling and discovering new places, trying new restaurants and hotels and meeting interesting people.

“For me, it is about meeting the people behind the brand or business,” January tells me. “It is about finding out the story of a place and what makes it unique.”

Mallorca has become a special place for 12 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

January who almost moved here to work in marketing some years ago but unfortunately, never materialised. After meeting her husband, she discovered that he owned a property on the island and now visits more than five times a year to stay in their beautiful house in Costa de los Pinos which January describes as “beautiful, authentic, idyllic, and secluded”. The house itself was built by local architects, Nadal Arquitectos, and is a true escape for January and her family.

What draws January back to the island so frequently is “its diverse landscape, infectious hospitality and authentic culture”.

January explains that she believes that as an influencer she can “offer local businesses and tourist destinations the opportunity to reach new audiences like never before” which is visible in the type of businesses she works with.

January is refreshingly candid and easy to speak to and it is no wonder that so many people follow her to hear her tips and have a peek into her world. Be sure to discover January’s top Mallorcan luxury tips at www.janaurydiaries.com or follow her on Instagram, @january_diaries.

JANUARY’S MALLORCA MUSTS Must visit: Deia the drive across the mountains is truly majestic.

Must do: Copa del Rey the energy at this event and the possibility of seeing the royal family makes this a must-do event.

Must see: The shops! there are so many wonderful boutique and artisan shops to discover all over the island.

Must eat: Restaurant Sebastian in Deia - amazing food!

Photo: Oscar Lagarrotxa @mallorca.in.love.

PEOPLE

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 13

Lara’s Furniture and upholstery have been trading in El Toro for over 25 years and have built up an excellent reputation for personal and efficient service.

• Specialised in curtains and blinds • Modern and traditional styles • Furniture, art and upholstery • 1000’s of fabrics to choose from • Property and boat service

Stocking all the best brands from England, Spain, Germany and further afield too.

See you soon in my shop!

LARA’S - SERVICIOS EN DECORACIÓN Gran Via 24 • 07180 El Toro • Tel 971 23 26 39 Email: laras.interiores@gmail.com @larasdecoraciones

La Bella Hair & Beauty Design | Palmanova | Avenida de la Playa 6 | 871 964 393 Mon - Fri 9 - 18 h | Saturday 9 - 15 h | Sunday closed

PEOPLE

Yachting Gives Back Interview with founder Nick Entwisle Christmas 2018, Nick Entwisle was sitting at his desk looking down at a jam-packed STP. Hundreds of millions of euros-worth of megayachts were lined up - Palma’s biggest shipyard had never been so full. “Surely they must have a few packets of rice, pasta or beans that they could spare?” he thought to himself. And the first seed was sown for Yachting Gives Back.

“After 22 years with Pinmar, I was looking ahead to my retirement from GYG plc,” explains Nick. “I had plans to tour Europe’s opera houses in the winters and watch Yorkshire playing county cricket in the summers, but also wanted to stay connected to the yachting community and try to make myself useful. I wondered if it was possible to replicate the supermarket model - popping a little extra in the trolley for charity – for superyachts. But was there even a demand for it in a wealthy island such as Mallorca?

“Some desk-based research revealed that Mallorca’s centralised food bank - Banco de Alimentos - helped over 21,000 people in 2018, handing out more than 1.4 million kilograms of food via 82 collaborating organisations. While latest figures from the Balearic branch of the European Anti Poverty Network quoted 18% of the Islands’ population, more than 200,000 people, at risk of social exclusion, and 11,000 surviving on less than 370 euros each month. There was definitely a demand.

“To help me further navigate the maze, I called on Suzie Black, founder of youth empowerment charity Fundación Shambhala. She’d delivered an inspiring speech at one of our annual Pinmar Golf Tournaments and, having taught her youngsters to give as well as receive, had a list of suitable food charities for me to consider.

I decided to focus my efforts on Asociación Tardor, a Palma-based soup kitchen serving 350 hot meals a day, and Mallorca Sense Fam, a food bank that assisted 4,757 families in 2018 – Yachting Give Back was born.

“I persuaded two fellow retirees to join me – nautical safety expert Paddy Pigden and technical advisor for Akzo Nobel paints Dennis Moshofsky – and we made tentative steps towards an Easter 2019 ‘food raising’ campaign. Support secured from Pinmar Supply and Deli Delicioso, we dished out flyers and ploughed through our extensive industry contacts to collect a respectable 650kg of food. As the yachts departed for summer season, we assumed our little venture would fall quiet. It didn’t.

“Louise Balfour responded to my interview

and needs mattresses and bedding for 45 people. Thanks to the start of refit season, and the kind collaboration of several yachts, as well as Bob the Bed and Darrmar Storage, we already have around 40 mattresses and piles of seriously good quality towels and sheets. Often yacht linen is replaced after just one season, and is carefully looked after by professional crew, so it should have years of life left in it. If you must face the tragedy of homelessness, why shouldn’t you sleep on Egyptian cotton sheets?

“At first, I don’t think Asociación Tardor and Mallorca Sense Fam quite knew what to make of us, since a lot of the stuff we collect can be a bit random. However, I think they now realise that it tends to be superyacht quality. I was delighted recently when we delivered a nearly-new topnotch jamón slicer to Asociación Tardor Head Chef Gabriel, who gave a big smile and said ‘eso es un diez’. I am also told that even our miscellaneous foodstuffs, such as exotic tins of fruit or jars of preserves, go down a storm at Mallorca Sense Fam. “My retirement hasn’t exactly been leisurely.

It still involves waking up early to a packed diary, but it’s wonderful being busy without pressure or stress. It’s also thoroughly enjoyable working with such a lovely team of volunteers. Since STP donated a storage container as a drop-off, sorting and distribution point, we’re now closer to the boats, more visible, and receiving many more donations. We also have a revolving door of between-work yachties, who are keen to help out at the container - usually with a flyer in one hand and a CV in the other.

“The yachting industry represents the epitome of luxury and owners and crew are very aware of that fact and want to give back. I think we’ve captured a moment and we all feel honoured to help this beautiful island community we call home.”

on Radio One Mallorca and took over our social media. The floodgates opened. Crew are almost always happy to be photographed alongside their yacht and Facebook goes wild.

A post featuring a human chain passing 25 bags of food from 96 metre Palladium down to two waiting cars reached 26,500 people.

We’d be handing out flyers until the end of time to match that level of awareness.

“And then, in August, Simon Relph from The Islander Magazine mentioned Yachting Gives Back to the TP52 Super Series competing in Puerto Portals. Not only did they donate leftover Deli Delicioso lunches to be served at Asociación Tardor, their media team also made an 80 second video of this fight against food waste. It was a massive profile booster and led to the Oyster Palma Regatta doing the same in October.

Sunsail and The Moorings have since offered to donate all surplus food at the end of each and every weekly charter next year.

Summers no longer look so quiet.

“Yachting Gives Back is now so much more than a seasonal ‘food raising’ campaign.

Superyachts are offering us lightly worn crew uniforms, bedding, towels, bric-a-brac, and the answer is ‘yes’ to everything. Mallorca Sense Fam has a conventional charity shop with proceeds converted to more food for its food bank. Unsurprisingly, our superyachtquality knick-knacks sell fast. Other potential donors have asked us directly what we need and kindly gone shopping for sleeping bags, gloves, socks and scarves to help the Island’s 200 or so homeless get through winter.

If you want to help, visit “On the subject of homeless, Asociación www.yachtinggivesback.com or Tardor has identified premises for a shelter www.facebook.com/yachtinggivesback.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 15

NEWS & EVENTS

PEOPLE

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE CONTROVERSIAL IN FASHION AND LIFESTYLE

/amandazipsitup

Amanda Zips It Up brings together some of Amanda’s experiences, observations, travels and fashion likes & dislikes. Thankfully, containing more “likes” than the “dis” variety.

Amanda spends her time in London, Mallorca and Ibiza researching fashion from every angle. Zips It Up is a part tongue-in-cheek, part brutally honest look at this world that she inhabits. From the Fashion Week catwalks of London, New York, Paris and Milan to the backstreet boho boutiques of Palma and the Balearic beaches of Ibiza, it’s all here. Enjoy. an x

Amanda O’Riord

HEAT & ICE-COLD CRYOTHERAPY CHAMBERS

YEEZY CROCS IN 2020

Plunging yourself into minus 85-degree cold is always going to be a shock to the system, but there’s something adrenalineinducing about plunging there straight from a sizzling 90 degrees. ‘Shocks’ aren’t always a bad thing. For the skin and muscles, they can work wonders — enter the Harvey Nichols’ ice-cold cryotherapy chamber and its new heat pod: a full-body, infra-red cocoon designed to make you sweat.

This exercise is known as biohacking: a process of “tricking” our bodies into implementing the same responses it would if you were freezing cold or hot and sweaty. Or, for maximum results, both in quick succession. Experts say that the two together will burn calories, boost muscle recovery and leave skin glowing.

The treatment is popular with athletes and A-listers looking for instant results: subjecting the body to -90 degrees Celsius for two or three minutes constricts blood vessels, producing a fight-or-flight response in the body.

Circulation and collagen will increase, inflammation will reduce and muscles will relax — plus you’ll get a rush of endorphins. Everyone from Kate Moss to Cristiano Ronaldo have given it a go. Heat at Harvey Nichols is a dry-heat, infrared sauna body pod set between 30 and 90 degrees centigrade, the first of its kind in the UK. It’s designed to make you sweat, and even at 65 degrees, you’ll be dripping within minutes. The 30-minute treatment has you lying in a space-like machine, head peeking out, in front of a touchscreen. From there you can adjust settings to suit your mood: to up the sweat count, you can do a HIIT class with resistance bands or some (really) hot yoga — the screen shows your calories burned and experts say you can burn up to 600 calories in one half-hour session. There are also meditative options. The pod comes with a choice of aromas LED light colours and, a massage option using vibrations.

You can have also a facial in there. Sweat produced during our Heat sessions promotes detoxification of cholesterol, heavy metals and other toxins.

Then it’s time for the Cryotherapy Chamber. The two chambers used in tandem is the “ultimate” form of contrast therapy, a technique known for stimulating metabolic activity and circulation without putting it under stress. This makes it a popular injury-recovery method but it’s not just for athletes.

Going hot and cold has known benefits — results include improved cardio fitness, muscle recovery, cellulite loss and better sleep. It’s a wonder treatment for skin: heat makes your blood rise to your body’s surface and opens pores.

Cold brings the blood back to vital organs and contracts pores to regular sizes, reinforcing your body’s natural defence system. Sessions have also been proven to increase endorphins.

It’s a brand-new year and this is going to be 2020’s most random footwear fad. And the first person to set the new trend is a six year-old. It’s rare for a six-year-old to cause such a ruckus, but when said child is North West, the daughter of two of the most famous people in the world, and she’s wearing her Dad’s (Kanye West’s) new Yeezy range, we pay attention. North was pictured at Disneyland with her mum Kim Kardashian last summer, sporting an unconventional white foam slipper. The sartorial choice raised eyebrows at the time, but now all the pieces of the puzzle are slotting into place. Instagram account ‘YeezyMafia’, which has a following of 2.1million, has leaked images of the shoe, reportedly named the Yeezy Foam Runner. The shoe, which Twitter users are dubbing ‘Yeezy Crocs’, appears to be constructed of a foam material and perforated sole, similar to that of Crocs.

It’s believed that the Yeezy Foam Runner will be available sometime in 2020, although no official statements from the brand have been made about a release date or its price point.

Would we wear them? They’re still ‘Crocs’ in nature, but adorned with the infinitely cooler Yeezy label.

I’m a fashion victim, so it’s a yes from me.

16 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

NEWS & EVENTS

SOLLER VALLEY STORIES

by Soller Shirley Shirley Roberts

T

he ‘Hidden Valley’ is the local name for our area. Soller and the Port have lived for generations as the independent, entrepreneurial society behind the Coll mountain range. When the train arrived, 100 years ago, cutting its way through the mountain, it found a self supporting society with little interest on what was behind it. Instead the Soller Valley looked to the sea from the Port to deliver its goods to France and beyond.

This is the reason that French is the third language of the area next to Mallorquin and Castellano. ‘Vive la difference’ would be the gutsy feeling of the time which continues to this day. There are a myriad of stories which emanate from this area I love. As a story teller I am interested in the past and the future of this great place in the universe.

I look forward to sharing so many of them with you. Highly traditional yet embracing modernity is my definition of this place. The celebration of the Fiestas is a great example of this. Many visitors and residents rarely go to church but their lives are dominated by the church calendar. The traditional fiestas and celebrations have been in existence for generations. They are added to annually by 2020 type events and ancient and modern happily co-exist.

Spring brings the cyclists to our world either

enjoying the ride or challenging themselves on our mountain routes. They take the same space here as all the walkers who are ready to tackle the mountains of Route 221. To walk, to cycle, to swim, to sit on the beach and build sandcastles is all possible in our world. Add to that the glorious sunsets and the celebrations as the sun slides into the sea every day and you might understand our world in all its glory.

As March and April arrive the celebrations are many. The first comes in on March 20th which begins the Orange Fiesta of 2020. A weekend of Orange celebrations in Soller Square to begin the fun. After that cheap tickets on the Soller train bring in people for the next two weeks to taste the Orange menus in participating restaurants.

Soller is known as the Valley of the Orange and has a connection to the Canoneta Orange. Such deliciousness has to be experienced so look out for them in our local shops and supermarkets.

As March gives way to April we arrive into the Easter season. Soller is one of the places in Mallorca which have daily Penitents Parades. Services in the huge church of St Bartholomew every day from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday are accompanied by the parades of the Fraternities of Soller.

We live in a noisy world here but it is silence in the streets as the parades, in all their solemnity, pass by. The Soller Valley is open for business with fine hotels and restaurants occupying space and a choice of budgets.

The thousands of people who return every year for their fix of the Solleric world are so very welcome.

This is also the same for the Mallorca residents who love to visit us for our Market Day Saturdays and our monthly fiestas. All roads lead to Soller for many here and we are always happy to see them.

The Soller Valley is on the map in 2020.

The word is out and has been encouraged by many viewers of the TV and Films shot in the area. Thousands come to experience what they have seen on their screens. So much to see, so many stories to tell, so many gastronomic, sporting and cultural experiences to enjoy.

Come and see us soon – you are very welcome.

Photo: GARY LLOYD REES

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 17

FOOD & DRINKS

Mar Chica The perfect recipe for a night out in Palma Looking for a fantastic meal in a beautiful setting? Perhaps a dance and some great tunes?

Or just a cocktail with a view? Well, look no further than Mar Chica.

M

ar Chica was opened last year next to Porto Pi overlooking the water and is a reincarnation of the popular restaurant that was a favourite in Mallorca for decades. The space is open and inviting yet sophisticated and calming with intimate lighting in the restaurant and true attention to detail that carries through from the table settings to the decor. The roof terrace offers sea views and is the perfect place to sip on a signature cocktail or

18 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

dance the night away until the early hours at the weekend. Boasting some of the best Mediterranean/Asian fusion available on the island, the live sushi station is something that draws a lot of hungry diners through the door. The owners of this restaurant refuse to compromise on quality, using only the finest of ingredients for their dishes and cocktails and service is key in Mar Chica. Every waiter, barman and chef knows everything there is to know about the menu and nothing is too

much trouble. Mar Chica also specialises in cocktails with a talented and creative mixologist that will happily make a bespoke cocktail for you to enjoy with your meal or on the terrace. Aside from great food and cocktails, a DJ also entertains the wellheeled crowds on Fridays and Saturdays so, whatever it is you are looking for, make Mar Chica the next place you try this weekend!

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Mar Chica - a must-try for any foodie in Mallorca The Celebrity team went to spend an evening at Mar Chica and we were lucky enough to eat our way through some of the highlights of the menu (and drink our way through some of the cocktail menu, of course!)

By Ben Mulvey

W

e were seated by the window with the stunning views out to sea and were warmly greeted by our waiter. Claudio, the owner, came over to explain the concept in a little more depth and asked us what we wanted to eat.

We decided not to order for ourselves and let the experts choose for us - a decision we certainly didn’t regret.

Kicking off our intercontinental menu was a Spanish Yuzu Martini with more ingredients than I knew could fit into a glass but the outcome was a smooth, tangy, fruity cocktail with a punch of tequila that tasted very Mediterranean. The first dish to arrive was an Ebi Crispy Roll made with tuna, avocado, ventresca (tuna belly) and rice with a sesame sauce. As somewhat of a sushi sceptic, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I really enjoyed this which left me intrigued to see what they would serve next.

Next up was the Usuzukuri, thinly sliced fish (‘pez limon’) with olive oil, passion fruit and Japanese herbs. The fish may have been sliced thinly as per the traditional Japanese recipe but the flavour was intense and complemented by the passion fruit which

gave it a delightfully tart flavour.

More starters came and we were slightly apprehensive about the number of dishes but we didn’t want to stop eating. We tried panko-fried octopus which was light and tasty, steak tartar which was profound in flavour but light in texture, and a few other dishes that were simply outstanding.

For the main event, we were recommended the black cod (a real favourite for anyone that loves Japanese cuisine) marinated in miso and served with Japanese mushrooms.

The cod was cooked to perfection and simply melted in the mouth and the miso flavouring was delicate so as not to overpower the flavour of the cod. The crispy skin and the soft mushrooms created a contrast of textures that is hard to achieve without making the cod too soggy or very dry but this was clearly not an issue for the talented chef at Mar Chica.

Steak is a dish that is not overly complicated in theory but so easy to get wrong, especially as it very much depends on the way people like to eat it but at Mar Chica they just get it right. The simple flavours leave the meat itself to do the talking and every slice was

spectacularly juicy and soft.

Concluding our culinary journey from the Mediterranean to the heart of Asia were the desserts and, having loosened our belts a little bit, we tucked into a devilishly indulgent chocolate coulant with chocolate ice cream, a light and fluffy green tea mousse and a yuzu cheesecake with fruits of the forest.

The restaurant ensured that we ended our meal on a high as each dessert was unique in its own flavours and textures and left us happily contemplating the cacophony of flavours we had just experienced.

It is always a pleasure to try new restaurants and to be able to tell other people about them but it is more of a pleasure when the restaurant makes it so easy to recommend.

Mar Chica, in my opinion, excels in every aspect of the restaurant experience from the service to the food, the cocktails to the coffees and I would recommend that you add it onto you ‘must-try’ list - you won’t be disappointed!

Marchica Restaurant Carrer Torre de Paraires, 1, 07014 Palma 971 593 902 | info@marchicapalma.com www.marchicapalma.com CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 19

FINDING FAIRWAYS Mallorca Golf Course Reviews with Matthew Cull

H

ello readers, and welcome to another new Celebrity Magazine Mallorca feature. In Finding Fairways, I will have been to play one of the many courses in Mallorca and will write a review in each edition. In the U.K I had previously worked for a leading Golf industry magazine, and in fact, I launched my own golf industry publication in the

USA some years ago, so the golfing world is very familiar. When I became involved with Celebrity this was always a feature I wanted to roll out. I got the ball moving ( (pardon the pun, sorry that was terrible ) by sending out an email to all the golf courses on the island a short time ago, stating what I wanted to do and within minutes I had an email back from Golf de Alcanada Director

of Golf, Kristoff Both saying “Count us in, Matthew”. This was the type of response I had hoped for, and others followed quickly after. I now have the rest of the course reviews planned in for this year and the beginning of 2021 as well. As a result of Kristoff ’s enthusiastic and swift response, we of course kick things off with a review of Golf de Alcanada.

Golf de Alcanada Nestled in a quiet corner of north east Mallorca, just a stone’s throw from Alcudia, Club de Golf Alcanada is now considered by many as the best golf course on the island.

In complete darkness, late January, I set off from home in the south western corner of Mallorca at around 7am, and picked up Celebrity Sports writer Alex in Palma en route to the north of the island, a journey that took around an hour with clear roads.

Just before arriving at the course we pulled the car over by Alcanada beach to witness the sunrise. I’m not generally ‘a morning person’ so I don’t get to see many rises, but this one was certainly worth the early alarm call!

Arriving at the course, I noticed the electric car charging points, some of them provided

by Porsche, with whom the club has a collaboration in place.

Everything about the clubhouse, restaurant and pro shop, even the changing facilities 20 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

Driving range

are nicely presented. The well-stocked professional’s shop has everything you would expect from the usual consumables, clubs, and an excellent range of golf clothing from some of the top apparel brands.

I had heard many people speaking very highly of the course and facilities at Alcanada, so it’s been a course I’ve wanted to play for a long time. I certainly wasn’t disappointed.

Designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr, Club de Golf Alcanada’s 18hole course opened in 2003 and is located right by the sea. The 6,499-metre lay-out blends naturally into the typical Mallorcan landscape. The club takes its name from

a nearby island just off the shore which, complete with its own lighthouse, can be seen from most of the holes.

Apart from the splendid sea view, players are surrounded by pine and olive groves throughout their round and, even though a young course, Alcanada is already recognised by a number of well-known golf magazines and golf guides as one of the finest courses in Spain and Europe.

The capable groundstaff had the course looking in pristine condition, this really was one of the nicest courses I’ve played. After a quick warm up on the driving range, Alex and I headed to the clearly signposted first tee.

The pro shop

You don’t get an easy start here; hole one, a dog-leg left is long and tricky to navigate for first-timers here. Judging your yardage ( or meters of course as the markers indicate on most courses in Europe ) is paramount.

It doesn’t get much easier to be honest; this course would be a good challenge for most low and intermediate handicap golfers.

Maybe a little frustrating for the higher handicappers.

A course playing at more than 6000 yards off the yellow tees, naturally there are some very long holes, including the two 500+ yard par 5’s, but there are a nice variety of holes lengths and features, and the par threes are certainly where the mid to high handicappers can look to make a birdie. I found the holes on the front 9 more interesting, yet the back nine more challenging and the scorecard reflected this.

With many of the holes enjoying the sea

the stunning course set up and wonderful scenery. I can see why it has won the hearts of many and is considered as one of the very best courses in Europe.

During our round, Alex and I enjoyed a good chat, some about life in general but we spoke a lot about what makes a good golf course. We will all have different views of a course and there is no right or wrong as such.

For me it’s great customer service when you arrive it’s nice to be made to feel welcome. I like a challenging course lengthwise, but one without too many bunkers. I also like nice, wide and forgiving fairways on the par 4 and 5 hole tee shots, I play golf for relaxation, I don’t want to be searching for lost balls all the time.

Alex’s view was pretty similar, but he added that he was fond of courses that were comfortable for all handicaps, with greens and pin positions accessible for the higher handicapper. Halfway houses with food, drinks and restroom facilities were mentioned too. I can’t disagree with that.

So, Alcanada ticks all of these boxes. A big thank you to Kristoff, Jenny and all the hardworking team at Golf de Alcanada for

your kind and generous hospitality. If you’re a keen golfer, whether full-time resident here on the island, part-time resident or indeed here on your holidays get a tee time booked today.

Club de Golf Alcanada Tel:(+34) 971 549 560 Website: www.golf-alcanada.com Email: info@golf-alcanada.com Address: Carretera del Faro s/n, 07400 Port d’Alcúdia, Mallorca

Restaurant terrace

views. overall, this was an absolute pleasure to play. The staff at Golf de Alcanada are wonderful and this is complemented by

Hole 13

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 21

MALLORCA

Hiking the Archduke Way Follow the path of royalty to some of Mallorca’s most spectacular views!

The Path of the Archduke, or Camí de s’Arxiduc, is thought by many avid hikers to be one of the most magnificent walks on the island, which is not entirely surprising as it was purpose-built by an eccentric Austrian Archduke for the sole function of giving him a pleasurable route to take his horses on. In this, he succeeded beyond doubt, leaving as his legacy this amazing path for us all to enjoy today.

THE HISTORY Ludwig Salvator, a decidedly handsome young man, was from the AustrianTuscan branch of the Habsburg dynasty.

Considered pleasure-seeking mavericks, they were not the most popular part of the family, so when Italian unification ended the Habsburg reign in Tuscany, the Emperor had to figure out what to with his wayward relatives. Ludwig was first sent to Prague, which wasn’t to his liking, so he asked, using asthma as an excuse, to be allowed to move to warmer climes.

He settled on Mallorca, and instantly fell in love with the island. He bought vast

22 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

swaths of land between Valldemossa and Deià, building stately homes and dedicating himself to his real passions... science and nature. The locals adored the generous, offbeat Archduke, who was accessible to even his most lowly tenants.

In 1883, he drew up plans for what is now called the Archduke Way, and the rest is, as they say, history!

THE WALK If you like a challenge, and have a good fitness level, this is a fabulous walk for you!

The full 17kms circuit (there are shortcuts to reduce the distance to just over 11kms) takes somewhere in the vicinity of five hours to complete and takes you from the starting point in Valldemossa, up steep inclines and through grand holly oak and gnarled olive trees until reaching the Coll de Son Gallard, at an elevation of 766 metres. Here, you continue along the oddly semi-barren and rocky ridge until the crystal blue waters of the Med and dramatic Deià coastline present themselves for your viewing pleasure.

by

Turn your head the other way, and the Tramuntanas loom large.

Keep walking and you’ll arrive to the cliffside path with views to Sa Foradada to die for. The next big stopping point is when you reach the top of the 945 metre Puig Caragoli, the highest point of the walk.

The road starts its downhill portion from here, taking you through the Es Cairats valley, past the Son Gual estate and finally back into Valldemossa.

Along the way, there are also points of historical interest, such as pits and small huts that were once used to store charcoal and snow, a valuable commodity during the hot summer months. Just a small detour away is also the cave of a 17th century hermit who spent a life in solitude and prayer and whose skull now resides in the Hermitage de La Trinitat in Valldemossa.

Affordable Mallorca Tip: The path isn’t always clearly marked, so carry a good map or use a guide so your walking wonderland doesn’t turn into a nightmare replete with forest rangers having to fish you off a mountain in the middle of the night. Not fun!

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Dave’s Diner

Authentic American food in the heart of Palma With quirky new concepts popping up on Palma’s gastronomic scene on an almost-daily basis, it is refreshing to walk into Dave’s Diner in Santa Catalina for some no-nonsense, authentic food.

At Dave’s Diner, the American influence is instantly apparent with the choice of music playing through the speakers - the best of the US of A would be an apt title for the playlist.

‘Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic’ by The Police is the first song we hear. This proves to be practically prophetic as every little thing they cook in here is, indeed, a little slice of American magic.

Dave realised his dream of setting up a diner in his European base of Palma in August 2019 with his aim being to showcase American cuisine at its best and do away with the cliched stereotypes of oversized portions and basic food that have become synonymous with American dining. All of the ingredients on the menu are sourced locally, something Dave is passionate about as he believes it is important to support the local community of the island.

The menu is a smorgasbord of traditional American classics - burgers, sandwiches, pizzas and appetisers and our mouths were

watering just reading the descriptions. On Dave’s recommendation, we ordered the classic hamburger, something I had been recommended before our lunch date, and the Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich. Both were served in baskets with homemade chips and a token US flag adorning the buns. The burger was nothing short of exceptional.

Perfect, soft buns keep the juicy patty and the filling perfectly encased and the simple yet individual flavours make this burger a true triumph of American cuisine. The Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich looked as good as it tasted - indulgently cheesy with the juiciest of steak and the flavour of the onions and mushrooms permeating through the sandwich. As if these flavours weren’t enough, a jus is served on the side that had been slow-cooked for several days and was there to dip this heavenly sandwich into to add depth to the flavour. It is clear that every single aspect of the preparation of the food is thought through and each

ingredient is there to compliment another.

Another reason to visit Dave’s Diner is to meet the man himself. Dave is a true Californian that has plenty of fascinating stories to tell about his other job as a Sports Marketing Agent. Dave has organised some of the biggest sports events in the world and has met some fascinating characters throughout his career and his past as a professional skateboarder also comes with its fair share of interesting anecdotes.

Authenticity and simplicity are the cornerstones of Dave’s Diner which make it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and immerse yourself in the best of truly authentic American cuisine.

Keep an eye on Dave’s Diner on Facebook for updates and events including their frozen margs that will make an appearance in the coming weeks as well as Taco Tuesdays - a sure-fire hit on the Santa Catalina social scene.

AUTHENTIC COOL DELICIOUS INDUSTRIA 16, PALMA • 971 201 524 •

@davesdinermallorca

CELEBRITY

RHOC’s Hanna & Martin The couple chats to us about the year ahead...

Following their fairytale wedding and incredible honeymoon that we had the privilege of chatting to them about in the last edition, it seems that there is no stopping Hanna Miraftab and Martin Kinsella this year.

Many of us know Hanna and Martin from the popular Real Housewives of Cheshire that airs on ITV Be in the UK and follows the busy lives of a group of women that live in the ‘Golden Triangle of Cheshire’ and many will be looking forward to series 11 of the show which starts filming this month and will air in March.

“This series will follow our journey of launching a new cosmetic product,” Hanna tells me. “The launch party and the process we went through for the branding will be featured in the show”. Although the details of the product are still a closely-guarded secret, it is bound to be a successful product if Hanna and Martin are behind it with their combined expertise, and the launch will undoubtedly be a glamorous event.

Aside from their filming schedule, the launch of their new product, and their individual day jobs, Hanna and Martin are also launching a training academy for doctors and dentists to help people with everything they need to know to be successful in the aesthetics industry.

“We want to help people use their skills 24 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

by offering master classes and advice on procedures as well as help them with social media and marketing of their businesses,” says Martin, who has years of experience with his own successful practices in Mallorca and the UK. “We also think it is important that we maintain high industry standards and show people how to administer procedures safely”.

The couple aims to have their first classes up and running by May which will keep them very busy, especially as RHOC airs around the same time.

Lots of our readers know Dr Martin from his clinic here on the island, Re-enhance Medical and Dental Clinic that specialises in aesthetic medicine. This year, Dr Martin is bringing a Dermalux machine to the island which uses LED phototherapy to rejuvenate the complexion and energise skin cells.

This will be yet another service that will be popular for residents on the island and one that will make Dr Martin even busier during his monthly trips to the island.

As always, Hanna and Martin are set for an exciting and busy few months ahead

and it is unbelievable that this successful couple finds the time to fit it all in. We look forward to finding out more about their cosmetic product and to having them back on our screens in the new series of the Real Housewives of Cheshire in the next few months.

MALLORCA

Island Spirit

by Arizona Bell

The Art of Lightening Up Spring has sprung on our beautiful isle! The almond blossoms in full bloom, swimming season in near sight…and you have likely broken the New Year’s resolution that you were so hyped about at the start of the new decade. Am I right?!

I’m right.

If that sounds like you, do not fret because you are for sure not alone. Most people really do crave to become better versions of themselves, but, let’s be honest, rarely do we ever transcend bad habits because of a New Year’s resolution. Why? Because New Year’s resolutions are in fact designed to break!

The thing about personal transformation is that it only comes—and stays—when we really want it. The odds of that happening precisely on January 1st are 1/365 (read: not good)! So, I’m thinking we simply need a new approach. Let’s start by taking the word “should” all the way out of our vocabulary.

Instead of asking yourself what you should start or stop doing (New-Year’s-resolutions style), ask yourself what you really want to start or stop doing. What can’t you stop thinking about? What is stirring inspiration inside of you? What would you do if time and money weren’t an issue? These are the things that matter Poet Charles Bukowski put it this way:

“If it doesn’t come bursting out of you despite of everything, don’t do it.”

The more we start focusing on what brings us authentic joy, the quicker our ascent to the best versions of ourselves can occur, because joy is the true language of the universe. When we align with the vibration

26 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

of joy, we align with our highest selves and our innate spiritual gifts—and that’s when the magic really starts happening!

There is no room for making half-hearted, “should”-based decisions when trying to live a rich and meaningful life. Instead, let’s be fully honest with what we really crave in our souls, and say no to anything that isn’t that. Let us follow what lights us up because when we do what lights us up, we’ll lighten up the whole world—and I can’t think of a better resolution than that!

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming Conscious Living Mallorca expo (follow us on Instagram @ consciouslivingmallorca) in September 2020 to mingle with like-minded, lit-up people on the island.

Arizona Bell is the host of the popular spirituality podcast Spirit Guides Radio and cofounder of Spirit Guides Magazine. Her forthcoming book, “Soul Magic: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Mystics” (St. Martin’s Press), will be available August 2020. Find her at spiritguidesmagazine.com

RISTORANTE ITALIANO

Overlooking the marina in Port Andratx, Verico serves unique & elegant Italian food, with the love, warmth & humour of an Italian family

Fine dining 2019

A. A. DUNN TOP QUALITY METZGEREI • BUTCHER • CARNICERÍA Fillet, Ribeye, Sirloin, Rump - All top quality.

Roast ham, roast pork and roast beef.

Different flavoured sausages, pork pies, scotch eggs.

Different flavoured pies, Burgers, kievs all home made here.

Smoked Bacon, back bacon - all dry cured danish bacon.

Open on Sundays

Avenida de Golf 16 • Santa Ponsa • 971 69 66 67 • 606 448 675 Mo-Fr 8am-6pm • Sa 8am-5pm • Su 9am-2pm

/AADunnButcher aadunnbutcher@yahoo.com

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Verico Restaurant Finest Italian cuisine with stunning views of Port Andratx I have only ever heard great reviews from anyone who has eaten at this cosy, Italian bistro-style restaurant so I was delighted when the owner, Tony invited us to dinner in early February. Its reputation not only comes through word of mouth, but Trip Advisor reviews have consistently ranked Verico as 5- stars, meaning it’s been a regular in the top three best restaurants, not just in Port Andratx, but for the whole of Mallorca. That is quite an achievement.

Review by Matthew Cull | Photos by Vicki McLeod

Famous faces, some you will have seen featured in Celebrity Magazine, enjoy dining here whether permanent residents or taking a break, you could be rubbing shoulders with the stars.

On its own, away from the many Port Andratx café bars and restaurants Verico is located on the sailing club side of the water. Overlooking the boats in the marina from its enviable, elevated position a warm welcome awaits you from the friendly and knowledgeable team inside, where you immediately step into traditional Italian themed décor. It’s not at all over the top, it feels just right to create an authentic Italian ambience, yet with an assured and relaxed feel.

It’s early February, and the weather has been pleasant during the day, the terrace remains open for the winter months with the full floor to ceiling glass doors closed, so you still get the view but without the draughts.

We were comfortably warm.

Crisp white tablecloths drape the tables, with a selection of fresh bread, parmesan cheese and olive oil sit in front of us.

Relaxing and taking in the atmosphere and the views, we are brought the house speciality aperitif, Robellini - a delicious blend of vodka, passionfruit as we await the first of our 5 courses that make up the Verico Tasting Menu.

As each dish is served our waiter explains what we have and how it’s been prepared, you do get the personal touch here, and its appreciated. First up is Fresh mozzarella roll appetizer

As a nice complement to the first dish we were then brought Tuna Tartare marinated with citrus and mint essences, with purple cauliflower garnish and corn cream which was simply exquisite.

To complete our journey through this comprehensive and classy Italian tasting menu we devoured Chocolate Mousse with Cocoa Cookie, Seared Meringue and a Mascarpone Ganache.

We then rest with our glass of Pinot for a few minutes before the first of the main courses arrives at the table, Garganello al dente stuffed with a grouper stew, served with a mango and saffron sauce. This was a fantastic mix of flavours and personally my favourite dish of the evening.

If you’re a fan of Italian food then a visit to Verico is a must.

At some point I’m expecting a pasta dish, which comes next; of course the pasta is made in-house, as this is top-end cuisine.

We tuck in to the Pappardelle with wild boar ragu which is followed by a divine Turbot saltimbocca.

Maitre ‘d Michele expertly pairing food and wine

We ate the menu diario, which is 53€ per person. The actual dishes vary depending on the season and Chef, Luca’s inspiration for the day.

Verico Avenida de Gabriel Roca y Garcías, 24, Port Andratx Telephone +34 871 871 271 www.verico-portandratx.com Languages spoken: German, Italian, English and Spanish.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 29

PET’S CORNER

The dreaded Procesionaria del Pino These awful beasts appear every spring, but they seem to be arriving in greater numbers and causing more and more problems for animals and their owners, and staying every year for longer and longer

We see cases nearly every day when some unsuspecting animal or owner has come in contact with them! So here is a quick bit of info which may help if we or our pets are unfortunate enough to come in contact with them.

What are these caterpillars and why are they called procesionaria?

Their full Latin name is Thaumetopoea pitycocampa. They are the caterpillar stage of a butterfly. They are very social creatures and live in nests and walk around in lines in search of food, hence their name. Their hairs can cause nasty allergic reactions.

What is their life cycle?

In the winter when most caterpillars are dormant, these caterpillars emerge from their nests at night and go in search of food - the pine needles.

They go back to bed at dawn, in the same nest.

They survive the cold of winter using three mechanisms, the most important of which is their

nest. Each nest can have 200 or more caterpillars, in which they share their body heat. The nests are made and insulated with silk. In spring they mature and descend from the trees and bury themselves in the ground, up to a depth of 2030cm. In the soil they form a silk chrysalis, inside which develops the adult butterfly. They can stay in the soil for months and even years. Usually the adult butterflies emerge at the end of summer, seek a mate and breed. The female butterflies lay their eggs in the pine trees, which in turn, hatch to caterpillars shortly afterwards. So the cycle starts again.

What is their defence system?

They are not aggressive creatures, they have just developed a very good defence system if disturbed! Each caterpillar has about 500,000 hairs or darts which are sharp at both ends and tipped with barbs and a poison! These can even be fired into the air around the caterpillar and spread in the wind which means that we can be affected even if we don’t touch them.

What effects can they have?

These hairs/darts are very effective at sticking in and attaching to clothes, skin and even eyes! In the skin they can cause a severe irritation, which can last for several days. The worst lesions can be seen if we get them in our eyes.

Because they spend most of their lives in the trees, the caterpillars rarely cause problems. However, problems may occur in spring when they descend from the trees to bury themselves in the ground.

This is the time of year when our dogs can come in contact with them.

They may sniff them or even play with them, or even worse; pick them up in their mouths.

The signs involve swelling of the face and if the tongue or throat is involved, there can be massive swelling with fatal consequences. If they survive the rarer, nasty cases of mouth infections, there can be necrosis, dying of parts of the tongue.

What can be done?

Obviously, it is best to keep well away from the nests or avoid the woods in the spring.

However if owners or animals are exposed, then seek vet/medical treatment immediately. It may be a good idea to carry human antihistamines with you, to be taken rapidly by you or your dog if signs appear, and then seek medical advice as soon as possible.

If you have and questions regarding any of the above, please do not hesitate to speak with us.

Good luck- let’s hope for more cold, wet weather to kill the little beasties!

‘Nick The Vet’

‘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.

ACCESSIBILITY Easy to find on the Bendinat roundabout. Free and easy underground parking and a lift to the door.

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

MALLORCA

Mallorca Garage opens its doors

By Vicki McLeod

Has Peter Redrin created the ultimate ‘men’s shed’?

If you are a classic or sports car owner then you may share the issue that Peter Redrin faced when looking for a suitable space to work on his beloved classic car. “There was nowhere that I could find that was a secure place with the right equipment, lifts and tools that I needed”. So true to Peter’s entrepreneurial spirit he found and created that space in Costa de la Calma in South West Mallorca, and named it Mallorca Garage. Mallorca Garage is dedicated to helping and supporting car owners who want to have a clean, secure and friendly space where they can do their own work on their vehicle in comfort and alongside

like-minded people. “I equipped it with everything a car enthusiast might need, including a really good coffee machine and a fridge full of beers!” said Peter. The next step has been to form a club, of which there are already eleven members who book time in the space and work on their cars in its comfortable atmosphere. Like all good clubs there will be an upper limit to the amount of members they can accommodate but currently they have space for more members to join.

Contact the Mallorca Garage manager, Alex Bell on +44 7538 737889 for more information and a tour of the facilities.

Nicky and Peter

Valentina and Victoria

Hamish, Ricky and Hugh

Peter, Stephan, Seppi and Eric

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 31

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

by Hamish Goddard

Growing up as a kid, the 2020s were a barely imaginable date in the future, where sci-fi movies presented us with a vision of the dystopian landscapes in which we’d live - the post-apocalyptic world from which Arnie would return as The Terminator to protect a young boy destined to save the human race against The Machines...

Wonderful stuff, although now we’ve actually arrived in the 2020s, it doesn’t seem that very much has changed..

Rather than a liquid metal shape-shifting ‘mimetic polyalloy’ T-1000 running around causing havoc, it all looked pretty familiar as Christmas approached, with the usual soundtrack of Mariah Carey, Slade, The Pogues et al, stalking us wherever we went with songs that drive us nuts for a month or so every year.

For me - like many others out there - it was also the norm of panic buying as the shops began to close on Christmas Eve, followed by frantic wrapping and the sub-vocalised memo to oneself to be a bit more organised next year. I myself went over to my family in Cornwall, where the local parish had come up with the rather neat idea of holding Midnight Mass at 9 o’clock in the

32 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

evening in a successful effort to get a few more people - both ancient and modern through the door.

SUPERCAR SANTAS The only festive gift that I managed to buy early was a radio-controlled racing car set for my ‘allocated child’ at the Fundacio Natzaret - a home for orphans and disadvantaged and/or abused children in Palma. This was a truly wonderful initiative from the JoyRon Foundation and organized by the irrepressible local petrolhead Max Gennel, whereby a collection of very special supercars and their Santa-attired owners blasted off for a pre-Christmas drive to the precipitous Santuari de Sant Salvador above Felanitx, before returning to deliver our gifts to some extremely happy faces, awed by the colours and shapes that roared noisily into their otherwise peaceful courtyard - a matching purple McLaren 720S and Lamborghini Aventador SVJ amongst them.

Christmas can get a bad rap, perhaps due to the relentless commercialisation of the festival, but this is emphatically what it can

be about - a reason to share joy, happiness and light, particularly to those who find these dispositions otherwise hard to achieve. What an uplifting and enjoyable day for everyone involved and we very much hope that this becomes as much an annual fixture as the overplaying of Mariah Carey.

SA CALOBRA OUR ISLAND JEWEL Just prior to swopping Mallorca’s azure sky for the mist and drizzle of the UK in December, we took a collection of fast cars through the ‘Tie-Knot’ - the 720 degree corner at the summit of the Coll del Reis and down the breathtaking piece of road spaghetti that follows to the beach at Sa Colobra - one of the two cul-de-sacs in the island designed and built by the Italian-Spanish road engineer, Antonio Parietti in 1933, the other being the equally gorgeous route linking Puerto Pollença to Cap Formentor. It consistently amazes me that so many long term residents of considerably longer than my four years here have never driven down this absolute

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

Summer Classic Car Show Photo: Adrian Gillet

jewel of a road, supposedly designed for tourists but variously described ‘as close as one could get to a perfect road for motorsport’ anywhere on the planet. This fact hasn’t been lost on Toni Descallar, the organiser of the superb Rally Clasico Mallorca - the annual two and a half day event taking place on closed roads in early March each year from its home base at Puerto Portals - and in which I very much hope to compete again in 2020 in the e3 Systems Lotus Elise SC. Sa Colobra is perhaps the Blue Riband stage of the entire event: www.rallyislamallorca.com In winter, every single outlet in the village seems to be shut which suggests that if you’re visiting the island at this time of year, the most you will come across is the odd panting cyclist. Otherwise, the hill is yours. So get up early and go for the drive of your life. A brake-cooling short walk at the port village itself takes you through extraordinary foot tunnels to where the Torrent de Paries opens out in front of you, a convergence of where the two main gorges on the island eventually meet the sea - and one of the most beautiful spots on the entire island. You won’t be disappointed.

TWO SWORDS It’s high time I talked about motorcycling and every year, the Mallorca-based ½ Milla Sportclub attracts bikers from all over the world for one of the most important motorcycling events on Mallorca - the Vuelta Mototourisme - a full tour around the island on some of the best hog-riding roads anywhere on earth, let alone a smallish island in the Western Mediterranean.

For those who are into bikes, this late-April event, starting in the heart of Palma is not to be missed - and difficult to miss anyway as more than 7000 motorbikes thunder off

up the Paseo Maritimo.

It was at this ride-out in 2019 that I met the delightful Gabriel Ferrer, the Commercial Director of Motos Salom, the official Yamaha dealers on the island. Biele, as he is known, gave me my first view of his choice for that particular day - the extraordinary Yamaha Niken, meaning ‘Two Swords’ in Japanese. Since that time, I have been dying to try it out and Motos Salom gave me this chance, both to review it as a motorcycle and to thrill the kids at Fundacio Natzaret with something a little less ordinary than a purple Lambo...

It is different too, billed as a sports bike but looking like a creature from a Transformer movie with two front wheels and a shiny and complicated suspension arrangement.

It is perhaps one of the most intriguing and daring bikes to have come out of Yamaha, or indeed any other motorcycle manufacturer, for a couple of decades. Even if Yamaha end up getting a haircut with this project, one still has to commend them for venturing outside the box.

A few facts first - it’s not a trike because trikes don’t lean over - at all, let alone to 45 degrees. A full bike license is required and no, it doesn’t stand up on its own. It’s got a smooth-as-silk 847cc water-cooled triple cylinder engine borrowed from Yamaha’s naked sports bike, the MT-09 and weighs a large-ish pillion passenger more at a relatively chunky 263kg. I guess the first big surprise was how normal it felt to ride, which sounds slightly oxymoronic but once you’d pulled away, you would never be able to tell that you were on anything other than a two-wheeled motorcycle.

There’s some clever physics going on here and if you really want to know, the parallel quadrilateral arms and cantilevered telescopic suspension use the

unique gyroscopic geometry to follow the Akermann principle, patented all the way back in 1818 for horse-drawn carriages...

Got that? Effectively, it’s the same as on any car and allows the inside wheel to follow a tighter arc than the outside wheel for increased grip - up to 80% - and enhanced tyre wear. That’s one question answered.

The next question is to whom a bike like this would appeal and without reservation, I can certainly say that it appealed to me as much as it would have to Rudolf Ackermann. Our criteria should usually be defined by the kind of riding we do, although we can get easily (over excited) by raw performance figures when, for 99% of the time, we live nowhere near this zone - it being too much of an adrenaline rush to be a default way of getting around, too dangerous with so many Gold Cars and shiny cyclists to lamp into - and always better kept for track days.

Even a fairly moderate sports bike with its power to weight ratio performs on an A to B level right up there with the very fastest road cars.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 33

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES

BOATS, BIKES & AUTOMOBILES For those who reside In Mallorca, there is a seemingly infinite number of breathtaking roads from which to choose, although recreational riding typically takes us up into the Tramuntana mountains, where many of the surfaces along the northern corniche remain unpredictable in the depths of winter. These are the circumstances in which the Niken comes into its own. Ask any motorcyclist if they’ve ever low-sided off a bike before and very few will say they haven’t.. Ask them if they’ve high-sided and very few will say they have.. It’s the front end that we all want to have bolted to the road.

Having been given this bike for the weekend, I joined an eclectic mix of fast and powerful Yamahas, Ducatis and Beemers on the first day and headed south to enjoy the stunning sweeps of the Ma-5020 between Llucmajor and Porreres - one of the most popular blasting stretches on the island before heading through Inca and up the climb from Caimari to Lluc and onwards to motorcycling’s stairway to heaven past the lakes at Puig Major, then ultimately down to Puerto Soller for lunch. It was only on the tightest of the hairpins that the weight of the bike made itself known - otherwise providing a level of stability and front end grip from its two front wheels, two sets of suspension and two sets of brakes that I absolutely loved - just as much fun, quite a bit less stress.

I couldn’t quite work out whether it is a sports bike or sports tourer, Yamaha slightly sitting on the fence with its ‘sporty bike’ description. I think the one thing I would have liked was a slightly higher screen and - cowabunga - the Niken GT version has this, along with luggage panniers and a

34 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

slightly remapped engine. What I do know is that Yamaha have pushed the boundaries with this bike; the gorgeously smooth and powerful-enough engine, distance-riding levels of comfort and a confidence-boosting front end that will be enjoyed every time it’s taken out. I thoroughly recommend getting in touch with Biele at Motos Salom and taking it out for a test ride.

Needless to say, the kids at the orphanage were intrigued the second they saw it and I had no trouble keeping up with the purple Lambo to get there. It’s also a few hundred thousand less than the Lambo at a little over €16,000 on the road. www.motos-salom.es

CELEBRITY

World Number 1, Rafa Nadal: A Local Hero Rafael Nadal, or Rafa as he is more affectionately known, is Mallorca’s golden child - born in Manacor, this local star has propelled himself to the highest levels of tennis and is renowned for being a gentleman both on and off of the court. So how did a young boy from Manacor become the world number one?

By Ben Mulvey

Rafa Nadal is one of the most famous Mallorcans and is recognised all over the world for his prowess on the tennis court. Born in Manacor, he began playing tennis at the age of three under the careful instruction of his uncle, Toni Nadal, a former professional tennis player that recognised that Rafa had a real talent on the court. With Brazilian footballer, Ronaldo, as one of his idols, Rafa was also passionate about football and even had the privilege of meeting the famous footballer through his uncle, Miguel Ángel Nadal, a professional footballer for RCD Mallorca, FC Barcelona, and the Spanish National Team. At the age of 12, Rafa won the Spanish and European tennis titles in his age group and was made to choose between tennis and football so 36 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

that his education did not suffer. “I chose tennis. Football had to stop straight away”, he was quoted as saying in an interview a few years ago and this proved to be a sound choice as he went fully professional at the age of 15 and won his first ATP match at the same time. Since then he has gone from strength to strength to become one of the highest-paid and most successful tennis players of all time.

Since winning his first title, the tennis star has progressed to win dozens more in every aspect of the sport. To date, Rafa has won 19 Grand Slam singles titles, the second-most in history for a male player. He has also won a staggering 35 ATP Tour Masters 1000 titles, 20 ATP Tour 500 titles and the 2008

Olympic gold medal in singles. In major competitions, Nadal has won a record twelve French Open titles, four US Open titles, two Wimbledon titles and one Australian Open title. Rafa is also the second male player to complete the Career Golden Slam, achieved by a player winning four Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal. Perhaps one of his most notable achievements is that he has won the ATP Number 1 ranked tennis player title five times, most recently at the end of 2019.

Speaking to the ATP at the end of last year, Rafa said: “I’m super happy with my season.

It was a tough beginning but then I was able to find a way to be back playing at a very high level of tennis and be in the

CELEBRITY

Rafa in Sant Llorenc

Rafa Nadal wedding

Rafa Nadal with Mallorca resident Keith Sneddon after winning the French Open

situation that I am today. I’m very proud about the year that I am having.”

Both on and off of the court, Rafa Nadal is known as a gentleman. Humble, polite and charming, he has won the respect of his fellow players, the adoration of his fans and the hearts of the people in his home of Mallorca. He is regularly spotted around the island, interacting with his fans, stopping for a coffee with his friends or training at his academy. Mallorca is still his home and he spends as much time on the island as possible. Nadal owns and trains at the Rafa Nadal Sports Centre in his hometown of Manacor, and the centre also houses the Rafa Nadal Tennis Academy, where tennis stars of the future hope to train to become as successful as their idol.

Keen to give something back to the island he loves so much, Rafa started the Rafa Nadal Foundation in 2008 with his mother to help

children on the island, as well as further afield in India, reach their full potential through sport and education. Rafa is very passionate about the charity and is extremely hands-on in both the decision making and the details of each project that the charity is involved in.

On October 9 2018, devastating floods hit the small town of Sant Llorenç des Cardassar in the north of Mallorca, claiming the lives of 13 people and leaving thousands of people homeless. Rafa Nadal was on the scene within hours with a broom in his hand to help with the clean-up operation and support the local community through one of the hardest times on the island that he calls home. He also, very discreetly, donated €1 million to the victims of the flooding, although in Mallorca, nothing stays ‘discreet’ for long!

Rafa did not just achieve significant

milestones in his professional life in 2019, he also had a memorable year in his personal life by marrying his long term girlfriend, Maria Francisco Perello, at a stunning ceremony in La Fortaleza in Mallorca. The humble tennis champion once again demonstrated that he is still the same boy from Manacor by keeping the press away and his wedding as intimate as possible, sharing only one photo of himself and his beautiful bride on Instagram to mark the occasion for his fans.

2020 is sure to be another triumphant year for Rafa Nadal but hopefully, the tennis champion and golden child of Mallorca will have time to relax with his new wife, enjoy some time off on his new yacht in the local waters and reflect on the year that truly demonstrated his hard work, commitment and talent to the world. There is no doubt that we will see a lot more of our favourite local hero in the year ahead.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 37

PEOPLE

Mr Motivator

Celebrity Magazine speaks to David Gomez from FitClub For some of us going to the gym is a chore, for others it is the best part of our day. If your gym is Fit Club above Mercadona in Son Caliu we’re going to take a guess that your experience is the latter. It’s friendly, bright and well equipped rather like its owner, the lovely (but don’t tell him because he will blush) David Gomez.

By Vicki McLeod

We’re greeted by the man himself along with his faithful sidekicks, his chihuahuas Ronnie and Stewie. “You want a protein shake, a water, a snack, anything?”

Right from the outset, David goes out of his way to make us feel welcome. Any of us who are not so comfortable in a gym will recognise the feeling of dread of going into an intimidating environment where you feel out of place and don’t really know what any of the machines do! But going into a gym where no one knows your name is definitely a thing of the past for a modern business, like Fit Club, where all of the staff aim to make their clients feel comfortable, valued and supported. “It is very important to me that everyone who comes into my gym knows that I care about their welfare, I want every single person to succeed in their goals, and I, and the team of coaches, do whatever we can to help that individual achieve their dream.” Big words, but David Gomez definitely has form in this department.

Born in Mallorca, David grew up with a Spanish dad and Colombian mum and a hunger to shine. “I didn’t know what I was good at, but a feel for commerce stayed with him as he followed his girlfriend at the time to the UK. Whilst she was studying he worked in a demolition company and decided to do a part time HND at college in, well, what else but business? His flare for the subject became apparent and his tutors suggested he do a degree. Although it meant leaving his girlfriend behind he took the opportunity, “I was heartbroken, she had gone back to Mallorca, but I knew it was the right thing for me to do, I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it”. What cemented his decision was the sight of his previous school mates during a summer holiday, “When I came back to visit my family I saw my friends in exactly the same position that I had left them and I thought to myself, I want to do something with my life”.

This committed ambition, drive and creativity has served him well. He completed 38 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

PEOPLE

his degree in business, and then went on to finish a Masters in marketing. While he achieved his qualifications, he continued studying a variety of health and fitness courses. All the while funding himself by working in demolition and as a personal trainer based at Muscle Works in Bethnal Green, an “old school” bodybuilding gym.

“I really stepped outside of my comfort zone there, they called me Spanish Dave. My first ever personal training client was a lawyer, he loved me and recommended me to all of his friends”. David’s career flourished, working in marketing during the day and personal training in the evening until he got the call that his father had been taken ill. The decision to move back to the island was immediate.

“Money comes and goes, but family is first”.

Once back on the rock, but without a job, the entrepreneur soon began to come up with new ideas launching two products with his brother: Carvid Biminis and EC Clips, which after some market research were huge hits. David’s father passed away in August 2014, leaving him questioning what was the real purpose and meaning to life. “I went away to Thailand and spent three months there, training and thinking. I decided that I wanted to do things which I felt passionate about. I started to believe in the Law of Attraction and began to work on visualising what I wanted.”. And with that he returned

“I wanted to create a gym environment where everyone is part of a big family. You are NOT a number, you are a member.” to Mallorca, sold his part of the marine business to his brother and started to work on developing his dream, Fit Club. After securing the premises David thoughtfully refitted and changed the appearance of the gym to appeal to his future clients. “I wanted it to be and feel clean, unique, and be very social. I wanted to create a gym environment where everyone is part of a big family. You are NOT a number, you are a member.”

During David’s travels for business around the world he had managed to accrue a great deal of knowledge of what he wanted to have in a gym. “I was familiar with the best pieces of equipment that gyms used.

Obviously I wanted to have the best facilities and equipment possible. In addition when you join Fit Club you have access to all of our classes which involve, functional fit, yoga, Pilates, body power and more: we

have a functional fitness room where we do all kinds of classes from dance to boxing”.

The facilities of the gym are top quality, even down to the changing facilities where you will find a sauna which is just what you need after a hard workout to relax the muscles.

The gym walls have motivational phrases painted on them, but these are not just lip service, David truly believes in what he presents, and is living this day in and day out.

“Whatever you do, with passion it will grow,” he says, and with his already impressive CV of achievements, you can’t help but believe him. Now he also stocks his own line in nutritional supplements, organises fitness retreats and is collaborating with celebrity clients who come to train at Fit Club when they are on the island. “We’ve had a lot of famous faces here, many from TV shows, they love to come to train here, they feel at home, and we are a friendly place for them to be”. What in the end is it all about?

“Changing people’s lives, living your best life, doing the best you can, helping others and having fun! And remember where you have come from, and how far you have gone!”

Call 971 681 622 for more info and to get your free pass courtesy of Celebrity Magazine. You can also get information on David’s next MYO fitness retreat which will be in April by clicking the link at www. fitclubmallorca.com.

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 39

NEWS & EVENTS

The JoyRon Inter-Schools Talent Contest The JoyRon foundation hosted a special talent competition featuring local schools at the TRUI Theatre in Palma in February which attracted 18 entrants from five schools who did a great job of performing under pressure in front of a live audience. The judging panel, a la X Factor, commented briefly after each act and then deliberated on who should win the various prizes on offer once everyone had performed.

Ronald M Hawes Founder & President Fundacion JoyRon

The Schools’ Trophy

Rafa Nadal International School won the school trophy with a total of 8 points

The presenters Julian and Kathleen with a young Freddie Mercury

Germany’s Got Talent winner Angel Flukes gave heartfelt advice to several talented singers

The panel of judges commented on each performance

40 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

The Individual acts for special awards were decided on by the panel of four judges: DJ Diablo V, singer Angel Flukes, music producer Fredrik Thomander and choreographer and dance instructor Maria Antònia Mas. The “Best singing and music act” was awarded to Brooke Judkins and Jessica Gilson from Baleares International College who won a recording session from Palma Music Studios. “Best soloist singer” went to Julia Bermejo Alcina from La Salle School who also won a recording session at Palma Music Studios. “Best dancer or dance group” was awarded to Maeva Mardivirin Morro from Lycee Francais, who was given a voucher for dance tuition from Estudio Mas Danza.

The School Trophy was awarded according to the first three placings in the first half section A for 9 to 13 year olds and also the first three placings in the second half section B for 14 year olds to 17 year olds. School Competition Section A was won by Shaneze Sibille from Rafa Nadal International School, who was awarded a one day motor yacht charter for her family and friends from Bluebnc Yacht Charter. In second place was Alicia Mancha Fernonoez also from Rafa Nadal International School awarded who was a gift voucher for Musicasa, and in third place was Marc Alekseev from Green Valley School awarded who was a Spanish Guitar donated by Musicasa. This resulted in Rafa Nadal International School in 8 points 5 for winning and 3 points for second place. Green Valley School 1 point for third. School Competition Section B was won by Anais Mardivirin from Lycee Francais who was awarded a one day motor yacht charter for her family and friends from Bluebnc Yacht Charter. In second place was Mireia Bartra Julio from La Salle School awarded additional dance tuition from Estudio Mas Danza, and in third place was Julia Bermejo Alcina from La Salle School who was awarded a recording session from Palma Music Studios.

This resulted in Lycee Francais School who was 5 points for winning and La Salle School gaining receiving 4 points, 3 for second place and 1 for third place.

So, the Rafa Nadal International School won the school trophy with a total of 8 points, Lycee Francais were second with 5 points and La Salle were third with 4 points, Green Valley were fourth with 1 point, BIC did not collect any points in the school competition. The overall result of the evening meant that 8 of the 18 acts competing received prizes in donated vouchers, amounting to a total value of euro 4,500. Every school had at least one prizewinner from their school. Rumour has it that other schools are already asking to participate in the next competition, so this looks to be going from strength to strength! Well done to JoyRon and everyone who worked so hard to make the evening a success.

You can find more information on the foundation at www.joyronfoundation.org

NEWS & EVENTS

“Best dancer or dance group” was awarded to Maeva Mardivirin Morro from Lycee Francais

“Best soloist singer” went to Julia Bermejo Alcina from La Salle School

An audience pleaser, Radio Gaga performed by Marc Alekseev

Anais Mardivirin, Mireia Bartra Julio and Julia Bermejo Alcina.

One of the acts took the opportunity to take a selfie of themselves with the audience!

Shaneze Sibille, Alicia Mancha Fernonoez and Marc Alekseev.

Group A entrants

The audience were entertained by a local dance troupe during the judges’ deliberations

Group B entrants

The “Best singing and music act” this was awarded to Brooke Judkins and Jessica Gilson from Baleares International College

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

Celebrity Football Roundup with Alex Fitzpatrick

La Liga 2019-20 is moving towards its dramatic close and has not been short on entertainment, shock and suspense.

TITLE CONTENDERS After almost half a season of the big two being neck and neck but both unable to pull away from their closest rivals, the title race has finally settled down with the El Classico rivals showing their quality.

However, despite their pre-season woes, it has been Real Madrid who have looked every bit the team to beat with Los Cules, Barcelona, playing catch up as the season has gone on. Even with the majestic Messi, Barcelona have struggled to put together a strong run of form, mostly due to their wavering results away from fortress Camp Nou. With Los Blancos, marshalled by Sergio Ramos in defence, looking able to secure and grind out results even when not playing well, they look to be the hot tips for the title. Barcelona have taken drastic action due to the style of coach Ernesto Valverde, ditching him in favour of Quique Setien. The former Real Betis coach is renowned for his free-flowing, attacking football and Barcelona fans will hope he can be a throwback to good times under Pep Guardiola and bring Barcelona the title.

DIEGO’S EMPIRE CLOSE TO DESTRUCTION Diego ‘Cholo’ Simeone, long-time manager of Atletico Madrid has had a troubled season. Having previously won the La Liga title and turned Atleti into the third 42 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

powerhouse of modern Spanish football, Cholo lost talisman Antoine Greizmann to Barcelona in the summer. What was originally labelled as a ‘transition season’ has turned into a nightmare for the Argentine and his side. The year that Atleti drop their standard has coincided with a raft of clubs raising their level and narrowing the gap between midtable and the European spots to such an extent that Atleti are in real trouble of not qualifying even for the Champions League, let alone the Europa league next season. A strong finish to the season will be required if Cholo is to continue his reign. Getafe, Real Sociedad, Sevilla, Athletic Club, Valencia and Villarreal are all queueing up to take advantage of any slip by Atleti and push them out of the European spots.

SWIMMING AGAINST THE TIDE At the wrong end of La Liga, a fierce battle to beat the drop is developing. Rock bottom at Christmas, Espanyol are onto their third manager but seem to have finally found the formula with former Barcelona player Abelardo. Of course they also found their chequebook, spending 40 million euros on signings in the winter transfer window. 20 of those were on one man, centre forward Raul De Tomas, who has fired the goals in and helped them to pull away from the drop zone. In fact every club in danger at the bottom spent big in the January sales,

all other than Real Mallorca who shopped in the bargain basement for loan signings.

With livelihoods on the line, you can bet that the excitement will continue deep into the season to decide the three sides to drop out of the top league.

REAL MALLORCA Mallorca’s first half of the season was more dream than disaster but still left much room for improvement. Sadly where there was no room in the squad after the summer, recruitment had left it bloated and unfit for purpose. This meant that when the winter window came, CEO Maheta Molango had some serious wheeler-dealing to do.

Shipping out some of the dead wood and replacing them with diamonds in the rough. The challenge proved too much and within two weeks of the window slamming shut, Molango was on his way out of the club. Too little too late for manager Vicente Moreno, the Valencian will now be unable to add to his squad and must play the hand he has been dealt.

Before the season began, successive promotions meant that survival would have been a minor miracle and the chances were slim. At this stage of the season the chances are looking slimmer than ever but what you can be sure of with this manager and his squad is that they will keep working until the death to secure survival.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SPRING HAS SPRUNG March has arrived and the big question is, do you have a “Spring” in your step? After a successful January of detoxing and training, I have to admit February didn’t go quite as planned, so like everyone, I looked for inspiration and I didn’t need to look far. Stephanie Day is like a breath of spring air, fresh and bursting with positivity and that’s coming from me!

Micro-needling, technically known as “Dermapen”, is also available which stimulates the production of collagen resulting in plumper and smoother looking skin. Needless to say, I am being signed up for it now, in fact, with the powers of publication, I may very well be having the treatment as you read this!

Steph has a genuine interest in diet and nutrition and is a firm believer that you are what you eat. She also enjoys creating her own recipes and sharing them on @ foreverflawlessmallorca.

“Steph”, as she is lovingly known, doesn’t just lead by example - she lives it. What began as a challenging journey to lose weight turned into a passion and now this Crossfit-loving queen has a successful beauty and health business here in the Balearics, “Forever Flawless Mallorca”.

Steph is an oracle of knowledge, not just for fitness, health and nutrition but also specialises in skin, make-up, well-being and positive mindset, I just about managed to scrape the surface of all Forever Flawless Mallorca has to offer.

I tried the non-invasive physical exfoliation beauty treatment called “Dermaplanning” during which any accumulated dead skin cells and vellus hair (or “face fluff ”) are removed, I was confused, as clearly I didn’t have any! It sounded excruciating, but it was heaven. At the end of the treatment, my complexion was glowing like never before which led me to believe there may have been a few peachy hairs after all!

Whether you are looking for a oneoff treatment, motivation or a total transformation program, I really can recommend Stephanie. When you meet her you will instantly see why she has a company called Forever Flawless.

So, lift up that smoothie and cheers to being the best version of you!

Ayesha xx

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 43

If you are looking to buy or sell a business please call Richard on

618 724 514 www.greenpointcp.com

44 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

TENNIS

ATP Mallorca Championships Tennis and lifestyle come together in the most important event of the year in Mallorca old central track will become the second in importance, but maintaining the charm that characterizes it due to its architecture.

In addition, the commercial area will be much larger and will make your visit a special day in every possible way. The gastronomic area known as ‘the food court’ is expanded to accommodate more spaces and more types of food, recreation. Rest spaces will also grow so that there is a more lively environment not only in the stands, but throughout the whole club.

The Hospitality and VIP area will boast the largest changes. A large tent of 450 m2 designed with all the comforts will It will have been eighteen years since Mallorca has enjoyed an international first level ATP tennis tournament. That is why, the new ATP Mallorca Championships to be held from June 20 to 27 in Santa Ponça promises to be one of the great events of the year on the island.

The tournament will not only be the most important sporting event in the Balearic Islands, but also shows Mallorca has a clear objective: to become a unique lifestyle event being an international reference within this sector. There are no lacking ingredients to achieve it.

This event has the honour of being the first ATP tournament to be played in Spain on grass - the tournament is also known as the Mediterranean Wimbledon – in fact it was the first event on this surface to obtain permission from the association of professional tennis players so that evening sessions can be played under artificial light.

In addition, it is important to note that the ATP Mallorca Championships is the ATP tournament with the highest prize money in all Europe in its category. A substantial change when it comes to understanding an event of this magnitude.

The tournament offers another dimension that goes far beyond the pure sporting show.

Enjoying the best tennis in the world under the stars of the Mallorcan night already sounds in itself tremendously attractive. But the ATP Mallorca Championships didn’t want to stop there. They are planning a series of activities that are designed to get the visitor experience to the next level: interactive leisure spaces, music and entertainment around, the best high level gastronomy for the most gourmet tastes, and a whole series of experiences that together with the unique enclave of Mallorca and its climatology will make this event a worldwide reference and with its own characteristics that no other tournament in the circuit can boast.

As for the venue, the organization has already announced that this will be totally different from what people may have seen in recent years with the WTA Mallorca Open women’s event. The new project seems much more spectacular for both the public and the players. The club that will be named as ‘Mallorca Lawn Tennis Country Club’ and will have a new central court with a capacity for 3500 attendees that promises to delight those most demanding fans. The

welcome all the personalities and VIPs that travel to Santa Ponça to enjoy a day of tennis and lifestyle and looking for a unique and exclusive treatment. Together with spectacular views of the natural grass slopes, you will have a VIP catering that will delight the most demanding palates, as well as different exclusive services.

With all of these, we have no doubt that the ATP Mallorca Championships will become one of the most talked about social and sporting events of the year on the island.

For more information and VIP reservations hospitality@mallorca-championships.com

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 45

CELEBRITY MALLORCA MAGAZINE HOMES & PROPERTIES

Property Market Update BREXIT IT IS THEN!

A new year, a new decade and a new future ahead of us! With the election now consigned to history and Boris firmly in the driver’s seat, we finally have much of the Brexit uncertainty removed with the knowledge that 2020 will now be the year Britain leaves the EU, like it or not!

In Churchillian terms, this is perhaps only the end of the beginning, with a great deal of negotiation still ahead. The Withdrawal Agreement Bill has to be agreed before January 31st and a security and law enforcement agreement then needs to be passed. If this still ends in a stalemate situation and no deal by the end of June, then the UK still faces the prospect of leaving without a deal at the end of December 2020. Any which way one looks at it, our roller coaster ride is not quite over with uncertainty – albeit lessened - continuing for the foreseeable future. How this will affect the British appetite for property in the Balearics remains to be seen, but it is unlikely to have much in the short term, despite the improved exchange rates and clearer direction since the election.

MALLORCA REAL ESTATE MARKET – 2019 YEAR IN REVIEW

According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), the official real estate sales figures in the Balearics for the market as a whole were down on 2018. The biggest dip in sales was in July with a 21.9% drop and September showing a drop of 13.9% compared to 2018.

The only positive increase for the year was in May, showing a 4.6% rise. Official figures are not yet out for the final quarter and although there was a flurry of activity in the fall with substantially improved sales figures reported by many, there will certainly be a substantial deficit in property sales. This of course reflects the general uncertainty in the market due to global politics, the shortage of new-builds and low cost housing and the continued difficulties with financing. With a drop in sales, one would normally expect a reduction in prices, but this is not the general trend in the Balearics with a growth in prices of 37% over the past five years, behind only Madrid and Catalonia.

The reason for this un-typical market trend is multi-faceted, with one prime reason being the lack of stock and the second key factor being that many owners in the Balearics are wealthy

46 | CELEBRITY MALLORCA

second home owners and local Mallorquin owners without the need to sell, with an attitude of “que sera sera”….. if I sell, fine - and if I don`t, I’m in no hurry.

Mallorca continues to strengthen its reputation as a high end destination, building on its offerings with its strong well developed infrastructure, high end services including 7 Michelin Star restaurants (holding 8 stars) and a plethora of five star hotels opening in the last few years, supporting tourism all year round. A tourism powerhouse, Mallorca sits firmly within its own unique real estate bubble, remaining comparatively stable even amidst global financial crises.

MALLORCA REAL ESTATE BLOG

For me personally representing predominantly British buyers, 2019 has been a proverbial roller coaster ride. But the year has ended on a high. I was fortunate enough to be given a rather special property in Old Bendinat in early autumn as an exclusive sales listing. Many home owners would not make a choice of this sort, giving a property exclusively to a single agent in the Mallorca real estate market when there are so many agents specializing in so many different sectors. Nevertheless, if you don’t live here and want someone to be fully responsible for managing your property, protecting your interests with multiple agents and viewings, it can be a sanity preserving option with a well chosen agent.

At 620m2, the property is a substantial 7-bedroom home in one of the most prestigious residential districts in Mallorca. Immaculate in condition and beautifully presented, it is a very elegant property in classical style with sensational elevated sea views. Having performed a market appraisal, I would have valued it last year somewhere in the region of €9m, with numerous other agents in agreement.

However, there are a number of properties on the market at present in this price bracket, more modern in design (currently a general market preference) and which haven’t sold for some time. My owner is wishing to sell sooner rather than later, so we agreed to set it at a keen price of €7.7m, equating to €12.419 per square meter. With the reputation of owners and estate agents in Mallorca setting values at inflated fantasy levels, we anticipated a warm reception, particularly since even in this market, there

would be an opportunity to amplify the value of the investment. For an investment of circa €1m for example, it could almost certainly be re-listed on the market in the region of €12m, equating to a currently realistic €19.354 per square meter - representing a substantial profit when sold.

I am pleased to report this approach has been well received, and although there are inevitably the dealers and the opportunists who come in making ridiculous (and rejected) offers – interest has been very healthy. We have an interested party’s bank valuation currently in process, and although not quite there yet, I am anticipating 2020 will be starting on a very positive note. (For more information on this property, please see the www.mjcassociates.net, property Ref 19021).

On behalf of all at Celebrity Magazine may 2020 be a healthful, happy year with many magical moments! 2020 here we come!

Prosperity Real Estate C/Oratori 9 • Portals Nous

Tel.: +34 971 67 67 04 www.prosperitymallorca.com

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

Stunning sea view villa in Costa den Blanes Uniquely designed new-built property with exceptional sea views from all rooms. This property consists of 5 bedrooms all ensuite, underfloor heating, Gaggenau kitchen, domotic systems throughout the entire property, pool house complete with Wolf kitchen, infinity pool, double garage, lift and designed gardens with numerous fruit, palm and olive trees, etc

5 beds | 5 baths | 1374 sqm plot size | 517 sqm constructed area

WWW.PROSPERITYMALLORCA.COM

REF: PO504 | € 6,250,000

Lifestyle Properties Mallorca Real Estate

LP-2436

4

4

492m2

1639m2

â‚Ź3.650.000

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.

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

Lifestyle Building Solutions Transforming Homes in Mallorca since 1986 At Lifestyle Building Solutions, we’ve been creating 'Dream Homes' for our customers since 1986.

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

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?

H

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.

SOLE AUTHORISED HOTSPRING DEALER FOR THE BALEARIC ISLANDS C/Pollentia 75, Alcúdia, Mallorca - Tel. Showroom 971545377 - info@hotspringmallorca.net

www.hotspringmallorca.net

María is passionate about sales, she owns her own Real Estate Company and has discovered the secret to generating sales quickly and efficiently. She searches properties for her clients with just one click and has the most comprehensive list of properties at her disposal. What’s her secret? For Maria, working as an estate agent gives her invaluable freedom and using the award-winning Real Estates United tool saves her precious time. By being a member of REU she also doesn’t miss the opportunity to go to the Networking meetings, which give her a chance to meet professional collaborators with their own secrets to share.

DO YOU WANT TO SELL MORE? The Real Estates United Club provides exclusive properties for sale. Available from a platform that aids its members to monitor both demands and offers in a matter of minutes. Your next sale is just around the corner. Join the club of over 50 real estate agencies, and growing, to discover for yourself a new way in real estate sales.

971 097 874 FREE REGISTRATION www.realestatesunited.com

CELEBRITY MALLORCA | 53 news@realestatesunited.com

Tel: 971 097 875 Mob: 602 531 676

Luxury collection

6-8

3

460 m²

2.010 m² Direct access to the sea

2.900.000 € cala vinyas

romeo

4

4+2

578 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

4

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 €

2

2

59 m²

ref: 1708 | 389.000 €

Illetas

4

3

246 m² ref: 1689 | 895.000 €

Es Capdella

3

67 m²

3

santa ponsa

298 m²

985 m² ref: 1694 | 1.595.000 €

“The sound of the island across the world�

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.

Richie

Izzie Newman

Angel Flukes

Charles Nutter

Diablo V

Des Mitchell

The Breakfast Show

The Radio Active Show

The Brunch Club

Essential Afternoons

Drivetime

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

RadioOneMallorca @Radio1Mallorca Radio1Mallorca

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SHOPPING CENTER MERCADONA,1º FLOOR, SON CALIU PALMANOVA CARRER CASTELLÓ 34, 07181 CALVIÀ, MALLORCA.TEL: +34 971 681 622