>> costa BUSINESS DIRECTORY >>
Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm
PETS SERVICES >> POSH-P PETS-S SPAIN incorporating “Hair off the dog II” The English canine grooming salon & canine beautician training centre, pedigree pooches to Heinz 57’s. Also pet relocation specialists by land, small doggie hotel, English pet feed stockist & on-line designer pet wear. Call Rachel on 952 597 035 or 676 249 782 www.poshpets-sspain.com & click on links you require or email hairoffthedog2004@yahoo.co.uk WORLD SERVICES Kennels and Cattery, Worldwide pet travel, Vet service, Grooming parlour, Collection and delivery, Pet homecare. 902 301 002 www.vi-p pet.com
POOL ACCESSORIES & MAINTENANCE >>
sional pool maintenance, new pool construction, renovations and repairs, quality pool furniture, great water games, inflatable rafts and islands, part packs, solar showers and more. Call 952 591 053
POOL HEATING PUMPS >> ENVIROCARE Swim all year round. Very low running costs. Envirocare SL 952 663 141
TRANSPORT, REMOVALS & STORAGE >> WARM HORIZONS Ltd Local, National, European and international removals, storage and distribution. No job to big or to small Call (00 34) 952 499 337 or (00 34) 628 003 358 or email warmhorizonsltd@msn.com
GREEN DRAGON pool maintenance, chlorine free systems, repairs and problem solving, garden maintenance service also available. Call Ian on 650 200 040 or 952 455 282 SPLASH SWIMMING POOLS S.profes-
www.barsinspain.com - (0034) 952 499 400
costalife 105
Apartment
Duplex Apartment
Apartment
Apartment
Ref: 33207
Townhouse
Ref: 34673
Very well priced 2 bed 2 bath penthouse in the heart of Riviera Del Sol with large wrap around terrace wonderful golf & mountain views. The apartment comes with fully equipped kitchen, also offers underground garage and communal gardens and pool. This property is priced to sell as the vendors are moving back to the UK.
Stunning end of row townhouse in Marbella, great location 5 min walk to the nearest golf course, the property is set in a beautiful complex frontline beach, with beautifully done garden and pool with steps going down to the sea, as you enter the property you have your lounge on your right, the elongated kitchen straight ahead with access to the large terrace and dining room, in the midle of the lounge there is a staircase leading up to the bathroom, 3 double bedrooms with there own balcony, one of them en-suite, and if you carry on up the staircase you have a roof terrace with stunning views of the sea and mountains. Also storage and parking.
247,205€
427,773€
Duplex Apartment
Ref: 32345
Ref 33839
Location: Front line golf apartment this is a very bright and sunny 2 bed 2 bath duplex top floor apartment with wonderful views all the way down the golf course to the sea. This property has 2 terraces and sun all day long very nice complex with lovely pool area.
Lovely Spacious duplex apartment in Riviera Del Sol ,2 en suite bedrooms 3 bath, marble floors throughout, fully equipped kitchen ,designated car parking space, private garden, beautiful communal pool and gardens in a very quiet complex, sea views.
257,500€
268,701€
Apartment
Ref: 35242
Ref: 35147
Lovely apartment on a very quiet complex with huge communal pool and tennis courts, as you enter the property you have a open plan kitchen on your left a en-suite double bedroom on your right and straight ahead you have the lounge and dining area with access to the terrace. The property is south east facing with views of the communal gardens.
Lovely apartment on a quiet complex frontline beach with communal pool and gardens with access to the beach. As you enter the property you have a bathroom on your left, the kitchen straight ahead, on your right you have the bedroom and on your left hand side is the lounge which has access to the terrace with views of the sea. Walking distance to bars restaurants and supermarkets.
188,091€
166,595€
Ref: 33826 Lovely 2 bed 2 bath apartment with amazing views looking on to the Mijas golf course, really nice community pool and garden areas, garage and storage, also views of Mijas mountains.
204,213€
Golf Apartment
Ref: 33327 Beautiful brand new frontline golf apartment 2 bed 2 bath marble floors throughout large terrace looking over the golf course located in Riviera Del Sol. The Property comes with Underground Car parking and Storage also communal Pool. 225,709€
225,709€
Duplex Apartment
Apartment
Ref: 34701
Apartment
Lovely 2 bed 2 bath apartment located in a very peaceful complex next to the golf course in Riviera Del Sol. The property has lovely communal gardens, gym with Turkish bath and pool, garage, AC & heating, marble floors throughout.
236,457€
236,457€
Ref: 35426
Penthouse
Ref: 34929
Beautiful apartment with 2 bedrooms one of which en-suite, 2bath, set in a development specially designed for persons over the age of 55, it offers a clubhouse that has terraces with views of the sea, restaurant, bar, room for billiards and other games, meeting rooms, library, business centre and cinema. The facilities consist of a auditorium, outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, bowling green, occupational workshops, there is a spa with gymnasium, massage and physiotherapy room, sauna, hydro massage, Turkish bath, indoor swimming pool and dressing room. Also has 11,000 square metres of garden areas including ponds, irrigation channels and waterfalls, golf course.
Beautiful frontline beach Moroccan style penthouse with large terraces. Fully fitted kitchen, dormer en-suite master bedroom, at the other end another bedroom. Lounge with large terrace, BBQ and amazing views to the sea. Storage room to your right, to your left is a spiral staircase with access to a tower that could be used as a bedroom or just a place for entertaining guests, then theres another large square terrace with a Jacuzzi bath, also if you make your way back to the lift, go down 2 floors there is a gym with Turkish bath, sauna and Jacuzzi bath. If you go down another level you have the garage and on the bottom floor you have 2 bathrooms, access to the garden, swimming pool and the sea.
327,815€
580,395€
Townhouse
Semi Detached Villa
Ref: 33452
Townhouse
Ref: 33650
First floor duplex apartment, when you enter the property you have the large kitchen straight ahead the lounge over to your left both with access to the terrace, on your left as soon as you walk through the door is the staircase that leads to the 2 double bedrooms each with there own patio, and bathroom. The property has a golf course next door, the beach which is on your doorstep and a large communal pool and garden.
Ref: 33954
Lovely townhouse 3 bed 3 bath, frontline golf in Riviera Del Sol, golf & sea views, the property has a garden & a communal pool, roof terrace, and marble floors throughout. Quiet location.
Brand new spacious semi detached villa in Sierrezuela 3 bed 4 bath with stunning 180º views of Mijas mountains and sea, private garden, pool and off road parking.
385,000€
591,143€
Ref: 35356
Semi Detached Villa
Ref: 34037
Stunning villa on private landscaped garden with automatic irrigation areas. The property was finished in 2005, its in a great location with good views. Reception area, large lounge with fire place that has French doors leading to the swimming pool and garden, fully fitted Italian designed kitchen with views of the Mediterranean sea, 3 bedrooms the end one being the en-suite master bedroom, this property has wooden floors throughout, upstairs there is the tower bedroom with great views and a bathroom, also downstairs there is a studio, a games room and the garage which has enough room for 4 cars, also another 2 in the drive way, this property also has a alarm, safe and electric gates to plot and garage.
Stunning very spacious semi detached villa frontline golf in Riviera Del Sol, 4 bed 3 bath, fireplace, private garden and pool looking onto the golf course, large garage which could be converted into more living space, pre installed heating and air conditioning, roof terrace and video entrance.
908,211€
548,151€
contents
issue
28
costa culture
6
Cover story
Jamón The Spanish Cure by Mike Wilkinson
6
costa getaways
8
Basuqe in Glory by Harvey Mann
costa companies
13
Local Business Spotlight
costa lifestyle
27 28 29 30 32 34 36 ahead
Mens Stuff Binge eating disorders What Men Want What Women Want Hannah’s Beauty Tips Detoxing the easy way Helen Johnson Profile....goals for the year Give us a smile.... Larissa’s story so far Health News Your hearts worst enemies
costa homes
41 42 44
54 70
Cover story Interiors Cool and contemporary living rooms Costa Business Advice Are you Networking?
costaCover stuff story
72
A bloke, a bike and the road to Espana
74 76 78 80 82
Music Review Movie Review Costa Cuisine Showbiz Whispers Strange But True &
Challenge The House Doctor Alex looks at ways to help sell that house There is wisdom in a sage Simon Hill Step by step guide to buying a property in Spain
84 86 88 89
Animal Health Bytes & Pieces Spiritual Thought Pad Charity
54 guide to the costa
91
Useful numbers, phrases and shopping tips that will aid your stay in Spain
96 100
Indoor and Outdoor Activities Bars and Restaurants Sponsored by Bars In Spain
business directory
72
103 business
All your services and
needs in our comprehensive listings Sponsored by Bars In Spain
Hello and welcome... to issue 28 of Costa Life. Well I'm going to start with a sad note, Lynda, who has been the graphic designer for the magazines for the last two years has moved on, she was a valued member of the team and shall be missed, we all wish her our best in her new venture. She has helped us over the last two years to establish Costa and Country Life as two of the most popular magazines in Andalucia and we will always appreciate the work she has put in. Now to a personal note, Ronan and I traveled back to the rainy UK the weekend of May 11th to watch the ¨passing out¨ of our son David who has joined the Royal Navy, very proud, to any who know Dave, he is loving it and we feel has made a very wise choice and we wish him all the best, even though we miss him a lot.… On to an encouraging note for all you businesses out there. Tourist spending is up by 6% on the Costa del Sol so far this year so hopefully extra dosh will be coming your way over the next few months. It's about time wouldn't you say? It seems to have been a long hard winter for many people but the summer is here so let's enjoy it. And now on to a serious note for all you sun worshipers, skin cancer is up by 10% as reported by the Marbella Hospital, it has quoted ¨avoiding sunburn in infants and pensioners can reduce the number of new cases of melanoma by as much as 80%¨. So slap on the sun screen and stay in the shade between 12 and 3. The long hours and hard work of Mike Wilkinson our Web master is now paying off, go and check out our new websites www.ccfmradio.com www.costalifemagazine.com and www.countrylifemagazine.com
Editor Sharon Holdsworth Consulting Editor Harvey Mann Design and Production Stuart Langley Advertising Sales Ronan Holdsworth Accounts and Administration Lorraine Bonora IT Advisor Dave Howard of Alphashare Web Master Mike Wilkinson Contributors Bars In Spain Larissa Bonora Linda Christie Lydia Green Hannah Henley Simon Hill Lee Jay Helen Johnson Jan Morley Dr J.S. Nicolas Numero Uno Cruella Parsons Annette Riggall Russell Vaughn Videonet Dave Wakelin Mike Wilkinson Company Director Ronan Holdsworth Partner Barrie Shearman Images courtesy of Costa del Sol Tourist Board Jump Photography Martyn Wilkes Deposito Legal MA-0054-2004
For Information on distribution points, sales or any other enquiries call 952 471 091 or email: info@costalifemagazine.com
Reproduction of this magazine in whole or part without the written permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publishers. Although every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information and the advertisements contained within this magazine, the publishers can accept no liability.
Produced by and part of the HOLDSWORTH SHEARMAN MEDIA
952 471 091 info@costalifemagazine.com
>> costaCULTURE
Jamón The Spanish Cure Written By:
Mike Wilkinson
mike@costalifemagazine.com
D
eep, deep in the heart of the Spanish countryside... high up in the forested mountain regions of this vast land... far, far beyond the boundaries of "where ventures the tourist"... there lives on a tradition that is as old as tradition itself... Many thousands of years ago, the Iberian Peninsula (Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar and the French Pyrenees) consisted of swathes of forest sweeping through its mountains. The major proportion of this forest has since been cleared to make way for arable land (arable land that has since been abandoned due to poor soil fertility, rendering it unable to sustain anything but the hardiest of crops). However, there are still pockets of this forestland surviving, and they remain areas where the local inhabitants still produce the same traditional fare as they have done for centuries, and in exactly the same manner. And it's thanks to the Phoenicians (early settlers from Lebanon, Syria and northern Israel) who, around 1,000 years BC, colonised the southern and south-western corner of the Iberian Peninsula and brought with them, amongst other things, domesticated white pigs. At some point in history, these pigs got together with the wild boars of the area and created a strain of hog now known as "Cerdo Ibérico" or "cerdo negra", the Black Iberian Pig, whose presence over the following three thousand years gave rise to one of Spain's most iconic cornerstones of gastronomic delights. Yes… Spain has made quite a sizable contribution to the world's dinner plates, and I'm not just talking about dishes like paella, gazpacho or tortillas - or the fact that Spain produces 44% of the world's olive oil, and three-quarters of the world's saffron… No, it's something far grander than that.
costaCULTURE >>
Since time immemorial the mountain dwellers of Spain have been producing one of the finest and most revered food products ever known to man, Jamón Bellota de Ibérico, and also, to a lesser degree, other fine Serrano hams (Serrano meaning "of the mountains") which are enjoyed far more extensively across Spain than Bellota Ham due to a considerably lower price. Neither ham is anything like the pale pink, boiled watery stuff that you might find in Britain. Furthermore, they don't need additional flavours like smoking or honey or other such tricks to give it a more palatable taste… far from it. In actual fact, adding anything other than salt is strictly prohibited by the various controlling bodies that oversee Spain's ham production… besides, it doesn't need anything else. And if you've never tasted Serrano ham, then I suggest you go and do so, because you really don't know what you have been missing. If eating food could ever be compared with sex, then a mouthful of Jamón Bellota de Ibérico brings a new meaning to the phrase "carnal pleasures of the (pig) flesh"! But it's a long journey from the mountains to the kitchen table… a journey that starts with our humble hog living an idyllic life of luxury, freely roaming its natural habitat foraging for food. In fact, the basic diet of these pigs is acorns - that's what "Bellota" means, acorn. In a habitat strewn with holm, cork and evergreen oaks, surrounded by pasture, meadows and the Mediterranean Sea, our little pigs stuff themselves all their lives on nothing but acorns, with the occasional bit of wild grass, berries and the odd slug here and there. Their diet is strictly monitored and includes no growth-enhancing feed or other such unnatural foodstuffs that may impair the final flavour of the ham and which are, in any case, banned by the rules of the Protected Denomination of Origin. (I'm talking here about Bellota ham, as there are a number of different Denominations of Origin for other Serrano hams that allow for different feeds etc.) But anyway… our little pigs start life in the spring and are fed by their mother for the first six weeks or so. Then they are weaned on a compound feed for a month or so before being let loose in the dehesas, the meadows, to look after themselves and fatten up on acorns over the summer and autumn months, ready for the mantanza in November, which, until very recently, was carried out in almost every Andalucían household. If you look up the word "mantanza" in an English-Spanish dictionary you will be told it means "slaughter", but the Spanish insist that it means "sacrifice" which gives the whole affair an air of some strange religious ceremony. Surrounded by tradition almost as well known as bullfighting and flamenco, the mantanza was the most economical way to ensure that families had enough food to see them through the lean months of winter. It was a celebration that lasted for three days, often coinciding with each village's Saint's Day celebrations, and whole families would gather together to prepare their hogs for the coming months. Without going into too much gory detail, the pigs were slaughtered, sorry… sacrificed, cleaned, skinned, butchered, salted and hung up to dry. Every single bit of the hog is used, the blood to make morcilla (black pudding), the intestines to make chorizo and other spiced sausages, the offal to make "migas matanceras" a greasy, winter-warming broth, and then there's the obvious cuts of meat including the forelegs for paletillas and the pigs' hind legs and haunches for the jamones.
After laying in salt for a number of weeks, the hams are cleaned and hung from rafters to dry-cure in the coldest part of the house, the cámara (an attic room with barred and shuttered, unglazed windows). At a temperature of between 0° - 5°, the window shutters are the only thing used to control the temperature. The cold, dry mountain air, in conjunction with the minimum amount of salt and some six to thirty-six months of hanging, is all that is required to produce the hams. During this time the house is never left alone because the cámara would be the first place any self-respecting burglar would head for - such is the value of the hams. The acorn diet, high in fats and oils, and the fact that the free-range lifestyle of the Iberian pigs creates deposits of fat within the muscle tissue, gives way to a meat product that is sweet-tasting, deep mauve in colour and marbled through with delicious creamy fat that makes Serrano ham such a sought-after delicacy. And it's a very healthy one, too; the fat of the Ibérico Bellota ham contains over 55% oleic acid, which has a marked beneficial effect on blood cholesterol levels. It also has 50% more protein than fresh meat, numerous vitamins, folic acid which is beneficial to the nervous system and the brain, and a bounty of minerals such as copper, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorous and selenium, the latter being attributed with anti-aging properties. So all in all, it's an indulgence that beats the pants off the likes of doughnuts and chocolate. 39 million hams are cured each year in Spain, only 5% of which is Bellota. The majority are made from white pigs of varying breeds reared on a commercial cereal diet. They grow larger and leaner, but are not freerange, so cannot match the Black Iberian pig on taste, which is why they are so much cheaper, but they can still hold their own against hams produced in other countries. They should be served at room temperature, and the slicing of the ham is considered an art in itself. It should be so wafer thin that it becomes almost transparent, the whole width of the ham, and there are even do's and don'ts about placing your slices on a plate, one layer only and no overlapping slices. Hey, when you're paying over €300 for the thing, you're gonna ritualise and savour it, and treat it like some priceless bowl of caviar, aren't you? After all the time, care and effort that's gone into producing them, it's strange to think that you are eating a slice of uncooked pig's leg that's been hanging around in an attic for the last two or so years and is now teeming with mould, fungi and bacteria… but you obviously cut the nasty outer rind off before you start slicing into it! So the next time you find yourself in some Spanish household and encounter the rear leg of a pig proudly and prominently displayed on its own special stand, with a long thin-bladed flexible knife sitting close by, begging to be carved… Carve it... eat it... and enjoy it...
That's what it’s there for! costa life 7
>> costaGETAWAYS
O
n the odd occasion, it's been said that I'm a Dinosaur, a bit old in the tooth, over the hill or, alternatively, past my best. However, I believe that I'm like an old Rioja: full-bodied, fruity with a nice little hint of oak (a suntan). Rioja happens to be my favourite tipple, and to my surprise, it may have been the dinosaur's favourite tipple.
Written By:
Harvey Mann
8 costa life
Around the area of La Rioja, there are a series of dinosaur's fossil footprints that scar the ruggedly beautiful landscape of northern Spain. Wine and monsters are an intoxicating mix; this makes this province an exciting place to come. Now I know what we dinosaurs have in common, we both have a penchant for a good fruity wine. I don't class myself as an expert, nor an alcoholic. Like everyone else, I enjoy a few glasses with dinner, just like the many diners sat at the tables around me, as we watch the last of the golden embers of a sunset reflecting from the Titanium roof tiles on Bilbao's famous Guggenheim museum.
costaGETAWAYS >>
Guggenheim Museum It all sounds a bit of a conglomeration, dinosaurs, wine and a modern art museum. However here in the land of the Basques you can get almost anything to suit yourself: rolling country landscapes, wonderful cities, art and outstanding architecture; add to that smart friendly stylish people and probably the best wine in the world. If Prehistoric monsters are your interest, and you like a hike, look for the GR 93 (a long distance walking route) between the villages of Enciso (10km south of Arnedillo) and Corne坦 (about 22 km southeast of Enciso): Here are eight fossil footprints that were left by dinosaurs. Two kilometres southeast of Enciso at Valdecevillo are further footprints, this time left by a huge carnivorous biped with many other prehistoric fossils in and around Virgen del Campo, Poyales, and Navalsaz. If you decide to stay in the area for a night or two, one of the loveliest villages is the small spa town of Arnedillo that is snuggled in a valley close to the Rio Cidacos.
Pamplona
Close by to Arnedillo, on the edge of La Rioja and the province of Alva, is the stunning town of Logro単o. Spaniards speak of this town with great fondness. With a population of around 140,000 people, the old town will transport you back into Spain's engaging past. Most of the bars have a mammoth choice of Rioja wines, and it could turn out to be a long night.
partying, with dancing in the streets, processions, fireworks and brass bands. With little sleep and fuelled by large amounts of alcohol the revellers take part in the run; many have gone just to view the spectacle and take part in the tame celebrations and then, having drunk too much, end up running for their lives, often resulting in serious injuries and sometimes death.
Northwest of Logro単o, in the Navarra Province with the Pyrenees dominating the backdrop, is the town of Pamplona, made famous by writer and hunter Ernest Hemingway. Navarra is part of the pilgrim trail. For centuries pilgrims have used the pass at Roncesvalles from France as they walked their way across the plains of cereal crops and vineyards sliced in half by the high sierras, as they make their way on foot to Santiago de Compostela to celebrate St James's Day.
The Romans called the city Compel after its founder Pompey the Great, after the Visigoths and then briefly the Muslims, before Pamplona formed its own independence in the 8th century. East of Pamplona is the town of Sang端esa which is the biggest in eastern Navarra and was once an important stopping place along the Pilgrim route. Northeast from here is the small town of Javier with a population of 77; this was the birth place in 1506 of San Francisco Xavier, the Patron Saint of Navarra.
Pamplona with a population of nearly 200,000, is the capital of the fiercely independent Navarrese people. It has attractive centuriesold streets and squares and a wonderful Cathedral, its most single outstanding feature the Gothic cloisters in the French style. Close by is the burial place of Carlos III (the noble) of Navarra and his wife Dona Leonor. All hell breaks loose in Pamplona every year when Spain's best bull festival is celebrated, called Sanfermines (Fiesta de San Fermin). It starts on 6th July for a week and tips the town into a frenzy of drinking and mayhem. El Encierro is the notorious sport of running with the bulls, made famous by Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel The Sun Also Rises before being made into a film. Hundreds of people come from all over the world for several days of
Haro is the capital of the Rioja wine region. The town itself has barely 10,000 inhabitants, and a typical Spanish old quarter with narrow little streets full of bars from which you can start to educate yourself on the Rioja wines. It even has a museum that celebrates the local wine. But if you really want to become involved and maybe soaked in wine why not join in the celebrations on the 29th June when the normally mild mannered locals go mad and spray and squirt wine over each other in the name of San Juan, San Felices and San Pedro!
>>
costa life 9
>> costaGETAWAYS
Bilbao - Ría de Bilbao With the Basque Region being as large as Hampshire and Wiltshire combined, I now had to return to Bilbao, as my cruise ship will arrive in the new port of Getxo. However maybe one day I will be able to come back and get to see the lovely seaside resort of San Sebastian that forms a half moon around the Bahía de la Concha. Bilbao is Spain's seventh largest city with a population approaching 40,000 and is the political and financial capital of the Basque country. Known by the locals as 'Botxo' (Basque hole) it is wedged into the green hills of Vizcaya province with the murky waters of the Ría de Bilbao that slices its way through the heart of the city. Until a few decades ago, Bilbao was in danger of facing the same
Bilbao - Space-Age Tram 10 costa life
fate as dinosaurs, as it slipped from its great industrial era after the decline of shipbuilding. Now it's a modern city, although some little shipbuilding is still in evidence along with chemicals, textiles and the metallurgical industries that still operate on the west bank of the river that makes this city still a major industrial centre. With the ultramodern Guggenheim museum that would not look out of place on a lunar landscape, a new metro and a futuristic tram system, Bilbao's arrival into the 21st century is now almost complete. Bilbao's past can be traced back to the 15th June 1300, when Don Diego Lopez de Haro, Lord of Biscay, granted the small settlement its charter. The medieval town and its Bilbainos, as the residents are called, flourished as a river port, exporting wool from Castile
costaGETAWAYS >>
Statue by artist Jeff Coombes
Maman by Lousie Bourgeois
and timber from the oak, beech and chestnut forests. Along with the iron ore smelted on the riverbanks, this gave life to the shipbuilding industry and it also became a centre for quality swords and knives that became desirable throughout Europe in the middle Ages.
Bilbao's exports expanded, even supplying iron ore to Britain. Guernica will always be special for several reason in Basque history. In 1876 a Basque parliament held its legislative meetings beneath an ancient oak tree. However it was to become a place of infamy when in April 1937 Franco requested that Hitler's planes bombed Guernica off the face of the map. In the systematic attack, during the Monday afternoon market, 2,000 people died and most of the city was obliterated. This incident was to be made famous by Picasso's nightmare painting called Guernica.
The 19th century saw many significant changes as heavy industry grew, however Bilbao faced many attacks from its near neighbour France. The first attack came in 1808 when French troops besieged the city during the Peninsular War, and it was to suffer the same fate on four other occasion during the Carlist Civil Wars that were to follow. Nevertheless, with these wars one could guess that ships and armaments were crucial and, with ore mined in such great quantity and with a growth in population to deal with the iron industry,
Present day Bilbao has become famous for the Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art, said to be one of the most extraordinary modern buildings in the world. Opened in September 1997, and designed by
Guernica - Pablo Picasso costa life 11
>> costaGETAWAYS American architect Frank Gehry, the swirling structure is said to be part of the anatomy of a fish and the hull of a boat, the symbols of what was behind the financial success of Bilbao. The millions of titanium tiles that cover the structure give the appearance of fish scales, with a central glass atrium of cathedral proportions. Outside the front of the museum is the huge figure of a dog by artist Jeff Coombes. This statue is covered in something like 60,000 flowers; as some die others blossom. I believe that the design of the building is quite extraordinary and would not be out of place as an orbiting space station, and is far more interesting than the exhibits inside the museum. I have never been a lover of modern art and certainly I could not find anything in the museum that would make me stand and stare in wonderment. To alleviate my disinterest in the so-called art (sorry I'm a traditionalist) I resorted to taking one of the futuristic glass lifts to some of the other floors to see if I could find anything of interest. Quite the contrary: I lost interest very quickly and decided to leave after half an hour to walk around the outside. However just one little word of warning, if you suffer arachnophobia (a fear of spiders) beware of the huge sculpture of a Spider in bronze, stainless steel and marble by Louise Bourgeois named Maman, it is 895 x 980 x 1,160 and dominates its position on the walkway around the outside of the museum. There is another museum called the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao; now this is art, as far as I'm concerned, with some wonderful examples from painters such as Gauguin and El Greco. Bilbao has wonderful wide avenues and exciting architecture. The magnificent Plaza Mayor divides the Gran Via Don Diego Lopez de Haro into two wonderful avenues, with the Palacio de Chavarri an architectural delight. As like many other Spanish cities, there are a huge selection of shops and eating outlets. If you are interested in soccer, AtlĂŠtico Bilbao the local team, are known as the 'Lions' and their stadium is built near to San Mames church. Mames was a Christian who was thrown to the lions during Roman times, and the story goes that he escaped death after the lions decided not to eat him. I have kept clear of the political side of ETA and the Basques. After many long talks there appear to be a truce between ETA and the
Palacio de Chavarri 12 costa life
Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao Spanish Government. Only in one place in the Basque region do you tend to see any outward support for ETA. This is in the town of Vitoria with a population of around 220,000 and it's mainly a student enclave. So that may be the reason for the several ETA posters and
>> costaCOMPANIES
Local Business Spotlight
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VISTA DEL MAR
>> costa COMPANIES
Geneva Windows
More than just a window company Geneva Windows SL is one of the Costa Del Sol's longest established window companies, having been established originally in 1995. Geneva Windows specializes in the manufacture and installation of PVC windows and doors, in addition to aluminium windows, balcony enclosures and conservatories. Within their factory in Mijas Costa, they employ staff with all the necessary training and experience to ensure that the service offered is provided with the utmost ability, to give all their customers all they can expect from initial enquiry to job completion. Public and trade alike are supplied with a range of customers from local traders to home and business owners being attended to. At Geneva windows General Manager Bob likes to think that they go that "little bit further" than others, ensuring that customers feel comfortable with their service and that their recommendations are reflected through the windows / glazing products together with their first class plastering service.
Geneva Windows manufacture both PVC and aluminium windows systems
PVC
Using "Rehau" profile PVC windows and doors are a popular replacement (or new build) product with which most people are familiar. However, it is commonly unknown that all the frames are filled with a steel reinforcement bar to prevent movement of the PVC and to add necessary strength to the extension. Geneva Windows SL make all windows specific sizes to ensure that i) all windows fit correctly into the apertures and ii) the most effective window is utilized in each position to suit the layout of the room in which it is fitted, e.g. a sliding door may be more practical than an inward opening sliding door in smaller rooms, or vice versa in the case of narrower width. This product range is available in various colours, although white or woodgrain effect is the most popular. Sound and installation values are drastically improved via double-glazed and PVC frames.
14 costa life
costa COMPANIES >>
Aluminium
Aluminium doors and windows are available in powder coated or anodized finishes. Whilst not providing the same thermal properties as their PVC counterparts, they have been tried and tested over many decades and still prove to be a popular choice in many properties. Aluminium frames can be double-glazed or single-glazed and are especially versatile in the construction of conservatories or enclosures of various kinds, from balconies to utility rooms. Geneva Windows SL has completed several projects incorporating roofs constructed from aluminium framework and filled with glass/aluminium panels or polycarbonide sheets to various specifications. Geneva Windows SL will again carry out a detailed, no obligation survey, to assess and discuss, then finalize the client's requirements. All work is fully guaranteed and they ensure that any installation is fully fit for the purpose. Most window and door installations include Mosquito Net facilities. Alternatively, these can be fitted to your existing doors or windows.
Other products and services
Terrace Curtains
Geneva Windows also specializes in frameless balcony glazing (using proven Sunflex SF25 systems), an enhancement to any property - old or new and is a favourite amongst their customers (more information can be found at www.sunflex.es). Terrace curtains in glass are sliding / folding panes of glass without vertical glazing bars, specifically designed for balcony / terrace enclosures, where standard window designs may not be aesthetically suitable to the surroundings. The system allows terraces to be utilized all year round, keeping out the elements of winter and being fully operable in summer use, and of course gleaming from the inside. The Sunflex SF25 system is a sliding glass wall with toughened glass panels running on a powder coated aluminium top & bottom track, incorporating superior quality fittings to ensure smooth running and longevity.
Remember, as in all sliding products, the problems usually occur with small components, i.e. wheels, runners, pullies etc. Geneva Windows have chosen this superior system which keeps maintenance at a minimum and offers many years' service. Many people search for years to find a product or finish that is a little different from those that are generally available, often unsuccessfully. As a specialist decorating company, they can help to solve this problem. They offer unique wall and furniture finishes that reflect your distinct style, all within your budget. We are trained and approved applicators of the OIKOS速 range of environmentally friendly products and as such we have full technical support of OIKOS速 (Italy). We provide quality work in a professional manner and to a high standard of workmanship within the UK and throughout Europe.
Toldos and Blinds
To ensure that Geneva Windows SL provide a complete service, they also supply and fit toldos (awnings) of various types and mosquito nets in addition to a wide range of interior blinds including: vertical, Venetian, rollers etc. This enables our clients to achieve their full requirements for window and door openings in one visit. A recent addition to their portfolio is the application of Stucco Polished Plaster finishes, which provides an exclusive, superior quality finish to both internal and external walls. Whatever your requirements from pvc windows to toldos, blinds and terrace curtains Geneva Windows can offer you a Professional service backed by 10 years experience on the Costa del Sol. With hundreds of satisfied clients you can be assured of the perfect job. For your free no obligation survey and quotation please call
952 665 856 or log on to
www.genevawindow.eu costa life 15
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Estepona Furniture World has everything you need to furnish you Spanish home at an affordable price. The showroom is 3500 square metres with a vast range of furniture, sofas, beds (Spanish and British), garden furniture, rugs, bed linen, pillows, duvets, curtains (made to measure and readymade), light fittings, electrical appliances, an extensive tableware and kitchenware department. The majority of the Furniture is displayed in room settings which helps to visulise how it will look in your own home. With such an extensive range of products you can fully furnish you house or apartment whether it be for rental or for your own use, all from one place. With experts to deliver and install everything from light fittings, shower screens, mirrors, pictures etc. Complete Home Furniture Packages which can be amended to meet your requirements, or they are quite happy to design a furniture pack to meet you individual needs, requirements and budget. Of course you don’t need to be furnishing a complete home to visit FurnitureWorld you are just as welcome even if you only want a new kettle, a George Foreman Grill, a British pillow or duvet just to name a few of the many items.
BEDDING British size bed linen, including fitted and flat sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, mattress protectors. Pillows and Quilts, Anti Allergy, Superwash Goose Feather, Hollowfibre
KITCHENWARE Extensive range mainly imported from the UK to include Dinner Sets, Cutlery, Bone China Mugs, Glasses, Utensils, Cake tins, Storage Jars, Placemats etc. There latest addition is a new range of Acrylic Party glasses and plates, ideal for those summer bbq,s around the pool.
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ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES Kettles, Toasters, Irons, Fryers, Grills, Juicers, Vacuum Cleaners, Slow Cookers, Hostess Trolleys, etc.
FURNITURE Sofas and sofabeds, fabric and leather. Dining Tables and Chairs, TV tables, Coffee tables, Bedroom furniture, Garden Furniture.
BEDS British Divan Beds with storage drawers. Spanish beds with lift up storage space. Latex, Viscoelastic, pocket sprung mattresses. To appreciate the enormous range of products you really need to make a visit to FurnitureWorld. Alternatively on the web page there is a virtual tour of some of the areas of the shop to give you an idea. See www.esteponafurniture.com FurnitureWorld is open all day from 9.30am to 7.30pm Monday to Friday and on a Saturday 10am to 3pm. FurnitureWorld can be found in Calle Juan de Mena 18, Poligono Industrial, Estepona Directions - take exit 153 off the A7, this is the top entrance to the Industrial Estate, there is a Shell Petrol Station, go straight on at mini roundabout then take the 2nd turning on the left, on the corner is Hyundai and Amores Tyres, you will then see FurnitureWorld, nearly at end of this street on the right. If you are coming from the centre of Estepona follow signs for Poligono Industrial, there is a large roundabout with a BP petrol station, take the road off the roundabout immediately before the BP petrol station this takes you up a hill into the Industrial Estate. Take a right turn when you see Hyundai on the corner. If you need help in locating the store just telephone and they will help. Tel. 952 798 277 Email : info@esteponafurniture.com www.esteponafurniture.com
costa COMPANIES >>
Carpetworld is a family business which was first established on the Costa del Sol in 1987. The business originally based in San Pedro & Marbella has out grown these original shops and is now situated within the large 3500 square metre FurnitureWorld store on the Estepona Industrial Estate (exit km. 153 from the A7) Carpetworld specialise in fitted carpets, laminate flooring, real wood flooring, safety flooring, for both domestic and commercial use, with a full fitting service or on a cash n carry basis. They have built a reputation of quality floor coverings fitted to the highest standards backed by a professional and friendly service. Within the store there are hundreds of carpet samples which include Tufted twists, Velvets, and Saxony available in 100%, 80% and 50% wool, plus an extensive range of man made carpets including Stainfree carpets and Carpet Tiles. In addition to fitted carpets, Carpetworld has an extensive range of Laminate Flooring, including Tarkett, Alloc, Uniclic to name a few. Tarkett laminate floors are designed for people who want the upscale look and feel of hardwood without the worries. Unlike hardwood floors, Tarkett laminate will never fade, wear or stain, is moisture-resistant and will keep its beauty and shine over time. All the beauty of hardwood, great for kids and pets, easy to maintain and best of all, no worries! It’s the perfect choice for both formal and casual living and is certain to complement the decor of every room in your home. Once you have chosen a floor covering (or short listed several) an appointment can be arranged for an estimator to visit you to measure the area, Do not worry if you are unable to visit Carpetworld in Estepona an appointment can be arranged for the Carpet Estimator to visit you in the comfort of your own home, to measure and bring along samples for a no obligation quotation. Carpetworld also has a range of flooring for commerical use suitable for shops, offices, restaurants, hotels, golf clubs, boats etc. Carpetworld can be found in Calle Juan de Mena 18, Poligono Industrial, Estepona Directions - take exit 153 off the A7, this is the top entrance to the Industrial Estate, there is a Shell Petrol Station, go straight on at mini roundabout then take the 2nd turning on the left, on the corner is Hyundai and Amores Tyres, you will then see FurnitureWorld, which is where Carpetworld is situated, nearly at end of this street on the right. If you need help in locating the store just telephone and they will help. Tel: 952 798 277 www.carpetworldspain.com
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Sourcing the best of the best in the Hot Tub & Jacuzzi Style spas from premier manufacturers the World over is our primary goal at Spas 4 You. We do not have multi location show rooms with expensive sales staff just a small showroom and a warehouse full of spas on the Costa del Sol. We cover the whole of the Costa and Inland areas. We believe that we market what is probably the best range of the Worlds best Hot Tubs & Jacuzzi style spas. Hot Tub Jacuzzi Spas that are not only outstanding in performance, choice and quality but are outstanding value in price.
Advantages of a Hot Tub Hydromassage & Hydrotherapy are two principles taken seriously at Spas4you. The combination of warm water with, massage Jets and buoyancy helps to provide a pleasant sensation that not only is able to bring relief to muscles & joints but is also able to relax the mind and body. Modern Hot tubs have an increased number of more powerful jets strategically placed for maximum benefit, every model offers supreme therapeutic support in a carefree setting. This helps to increase blood flow and aid circulation, reducing muscle strain and soreness, and helping to relieve pressure and tension throughout your body. Calculated buoyancy (and a corresponding feeling of weightlessness) blends perfectly with swirling warm water to deliver a relaxing soak with healing properties. In fact, you’ll feel noticeably better in just 20 minutes. Hydrotherapy & Hydro massage does help. Not only do the warm, bubbling waters help melt away tension and strain, but they also provide a gentle and effective massage – targeting your joints and muscles, promoting a better night’s sleep and combating the pain of arthritis and other muscle-related injuries. Safe, enjoyable and effective for the whole family, hydrotherapy and the health benefits of a Hot Tub from Spas4you will help everyone enjoy an active lifestyle. To sustain and enjoy an active lifestyle you need to take care of yourself. Regular exercise including stretching combined with a correct diet and getting a good night’s sleep is only part of the equation. Enabling your muscles to relax and recoup is a big key to enjoying and sustaining physical activity.
Jet therapy - Jets do make a difference What’s something that makes a Spas4you Hot Tub Jacuzzi different from other spas? The jets as each & every model has a wide variety of jets, specifically designed and positioned to deliver various forms of massage and relief. From vigorous to relaxing, neck to feet, the manipulation and multitude of jets
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costa COMPANIES >>
provided in our Hot Tubs are first class. Our suppliers use the very latest jets on the market; Hot Tub World offers superb quality and advanced technology. Because the better the jets, the better the Hot Tub experience. You can focus the Jets on one particular area with a targeted, penetrating massage. Or enjoy a more general, jet action massage encompassing many muscles. The choice is yours; the feeling is undeniable. The Jets are all fully adjustable so you can get exactly the massage you want.
Aroma therapy Our sense of smell has a tremendous impact on our sense of well-being. Fragrances can conjure up visions & images of different places, landscapes, and fields in blossom, warm memories perhaps coupled with, and favourite foods – even desired moods. Without even opening our eyes, scent & its effect has the power to transport us to another time and place. Aromatherapy uses this principle to provide a soothing and beneficial escape from our everyday stress & strains, cares, worries or even responsibilities. Combining the Hydro massage relief with the relaxation of warm water and scented air, you will find yourself completely enveloped and of course be completely relaxed. Hot Tub world market spas from one of the world’s leading manufacturer of therapeutic spas. Using aromatherapy it is possible to infuse billions of aromatic air bubbles into the water, you can choose your “destination” as easily as you choose your scent.
by any colour we mean any colour under the rainbow not just any old stock colour the only limit is your imagination. The same applies to the Sides why be restricted by either a Redwood or Dolphin grey look when you can have any finish you choose. We also have available circular round Hot Tubs which are great for socialising and provide a real family environment. Our simple policy is that if we can not get to meet and know the business owner and the people in the manufacturing & selling process of our supplier we do not wish to handle their product. So if you want a first class Hot Tub at an outstanding price contact Spas 4 you and we hold in stock a full range of colours on our best selling models. Alternatively if you want something a little special, made for you, to your choice of colours and positioning of Jets contact us and this product is available to special order in a relatively short time. We have models on display to illustrating this product range. We are more than happy to come and do a free site survey and can advise on access – when and where a crane is required – generally as to the suitability of the property etc. When you or your friends are considering a Hot Tub call Spas 4 you for down to earth advice, outstanding value for money and the greatest range of products. Visit our Show Room on the Estepona Poligono, only 15 minutes from Marbella. C/Juan de Mena 18 Poligono Industrial Estepona Next to Marbella Game Room and Furniture World Contact us at www.spas4you.com - email: info@spas4you.com 902 88 11 02 or 617 63 92 15
Our Products One of our main suppliers has manufactured quality hot tubs since 1975. Having had more than 30 years in the hot tub industry this company has naturally taken a lead in the development & advancement of product enhancements incorporating the very latest ideas in Jets and Insulation. Their engineers & design teams have also streamlined the hot tub manufacturing process to deliver superior quality hot tubs at competitive prices, thereby ensuring that our customers receive the quality they expect and the value they deserve. This supplier like all our suppliers is committed to building every hot tub to the strictest standards of luxury, performance, and craftsmanship in the industry. Another of our premier suppliers is by contrast one of the smallest manufacturers in the world but it is probably one of the best manufacturers in the world. They are a company that started their spa design and plumbing systems from a piece of blank paper. No preconceived ideas so one gets a more integral system with less pipe work and less to go wrong. This company can supply a Hot Tub in any colour &
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VISTA DEL MAR Vista del Mar, The fruition of a dream by husband and wife team, Dave and Jayne Baldwin, has come about purely by chance......Dave was committed to moving to Spain some 3 years ago, but a near fatal motorcycle accident in June 2004, put that on hold. Badly smashed up, both Dave and Jayne spent many weeks here in the Costa where the weather was 'kinder' in the treatment of many 'broken bones'. They both fell in love with the Spanish Dream, the climate, the freshness of the food and have made in those years, some really good friends here. So much so that they never felt they were going on holiday, more visiting friends. A chance comment in Dave and Jayne's local pub in Cambridgeshire in December proved the catalyst for the 'move'. Chris and Claudia were both working in the area, but were increasingly frustrated by certain events, so much so they decided to move to Bristol in the New Year. As they were visiting friends for New Year, Dave threw away the comment 'you don't want to move to Bristol, I'll find us a bar in Spain!' That's how it all began! They came .over and found an English Agent, John Agate of Diamond Commercials, who showed them several restaurants before visiting the bar now known as Vista Del Mar. Both were blown away by the setting, condition and the potential of the property. The next stage was to report back to the team, as they were a fundamental part of the dream.......... Well, that was a while ago and the dream became a reality on the 1st of April when Vista del Mar opened for business. It really is a beautiful spot that has a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. You can let your mind drift with the sound of the sea, feel the warm sunshine, enjoy relaxing days, catch a waft of fine cooking from the wonderful selection of fine local produce being prepared in the kitchen and‌... listen to their enormous collection of ambient music. Using the finest of traditional ingredients, the creation of fine cuisine coupled with a selection of fine Spanish wines their aim is to create an atmosphere that you will never forget. They are very child friendly, there is a safe play area for the little ones, and the recent addition of wi fi, means you can 'surf the net' to your hearts content., keeping in touch with the outside world whilst relaxing in an idyllic location
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Dine Out.....
About the team Dave has successfully run an Interiors company in the UK for 18 years. An Entrepreneur, Dave's never ending passion for music and food are the key ingredients for this project. He is Playa Miraflores in house creative designer.
We were invited to dine at Vista del Mar, sample the wares as you do! We had a great night and the place really does have a great feel to it. Very laid back and most welcoming. You can
Jayne has some 25 years in the Service Industry. She has successfully assisted a good friend in running a Hotel in Bournemouth and spent many years gaining experience working in bars as well as drinking in them!! Chris spent 12 years training in award winning fine dining restaurants in Scotland before traveling and working extensively throughout the world including South East Asia, the Indian subcontinent and Australasia and draws on these influences and experiences to bring you his unique style of contemporary world cuisine. Claudia has just returned from traveling, latterly Aussie, worked with Chris in the UK and again saw the potential of 'our project'. Her subtle Irish wit and humour, and attention to detail will keep you all amused as well as fed and watered. The thought behind Vista Del Mar is to provide a quality dining experience in a magical setting, a truly tropical outlook overlooking a large pool, palm trees and the beautiful azure blue of the Mediterranean Sea. This outlook, coupled with an abundance of ambient music assists to provide an atmospheric, magical setting to enjoy the fine cuisine on offer from our extensive menu, and to sit an relax in a setting, 'Off the beaten track'. In just a small window of time, Dave & Jayne are already encouraged in the way personal recommendations, and repeat visits from delighted customers, both 'Locals' and visitors, means their reputation is already spreading. This success will enable the Team to develop their service and menu to cater for not only for the Summer Season, but also the winter. It really is a wonderful setting so why not get yourself down there as soon as you can and say hello? Whether it's a birthday, anniversary or just a night out they will make your night wonderful and will surely be back for more.
Starter 1 comfortably relax in the lounge area whilst enjoying a long drink and choosing you food from the fabulous menu. For starters we had Salmon fishcakes with Chilli Jam and Lemon Emulsion and then a Parcel of Smoked Salmon filled with Prawns in Starter 2 Marie Rose. We both love Salmon so forgive us for being creatures of habit. They were both excellent. For mains I had Roasted Pork Fillet, Red Curry, Pineapple and Noodle Broth and Sharon had Confit of Duck, Buttered Spinach, Spanish Style Cassoulet of Smoked Bacon, Slow Cooked Pork and Chick Peas. The curry was delicious
Main 1 and I was less than willing to share, curry with noodles was a first for me but it was delicious and the small parcel of Duck I had was also rich and tasted fantastic. The whole menu is full of unusual and original creations which make a welcome change. Highly recommended cuisine.
Main 2
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QUALITY
Dry Cleaners OPENS IN
CALAHONDA
T
he only top quality British dry cleaners and laundry on the Costa del Sol is now open in Calahonda.
The Hot Off The Press shop is located in Centro Comercial Calahonda in Los Jarales along with the Irish Butcher, Mercadona and Costaless Supermarket. The shop front is very stylish and modern with glass sliding doors, wood and steel reception desk and curved walls - far from the standard dry cleaners and laundry on the coast yet offering very competitive prices. Hot Off The Press is the only dry cleaning outlet in Spain to use the environmentally friendly Green Earth Cleaning system from the USA. With increasing focus worldwide on global warming issues, Hot Off The Press is proud to be bringing an alternative choice to people on the Costa del Sol who want to be more proactive in helping the environment. The Green Earth dry cleaning system ensures that your garments are odour-free, suffer no shrinkage and have a brighter finish with a softer feel. A rapid dry cleaning service is available with guaranteed turn-around of just four hours on request. Their laundry service brings something very special too because Hot Off The Press use calcium-free filtered water and an ecological washing powder to produce a softer feel to all your clothes. They use a hand finished system, where no rollers are used, to ensure that your laundry looks as good as new. Co-owners Mike Hamlet and Annie McGuire have a wealth of experience in business brought with them from the UK - Mike with 25 years in customer care and Annie with 10 years in dry cleaning. They are very excited about being able to offer the excellent level of customer service that people are used to there as well as such a high quality service for all dry cleaning and laundry needs. Stain removal is an integral part of the laundry process and Hot Off The Press is an expert in the procedures required to save your cherished garment. A high class clothing alteration, repair and one to one fitting service is also available on the premises for day wear, bridal wear and occasional wear by a very experienced UK tailoress, having over 20 years in the industry and able to meet all your requirements. Now there is a dry cleaners where you can take your laundry with total confidence, and completely trust them with your everday or designer garments. For an eco-friendly and high quality finish with all your laundry and dry cleaning requirements visit Hot Off The Press. More information at www.hotpgreen.com or call 952 930 392
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costa LIFESTYLE >>
MEN versus Women
Binge eating disorder... Some men are eating 3,000 calories rapidly, in one sitting - more than once a week. They are some of the 2 million plus males who suffer from binge eating disorder. Most experts now believe that anywhere between 40% to roughly half of all compulsive overeaters are guys. The great majority of them suffer in silence, going to great length to consume their massive, sometimes nauseating binges of high-calorie foods in secret, behind closed doors. Half of binge eaters suffer from clinical depression, also every day factors such as stress, boredom or anxiety. They binge on huge amounts of food which they feel they are unable to control, when they have finished they feel sick to the stomach as well as feeling overwhelmed by guilt and even self hatred.
Shopping Women: A woman makes a list of things she needs, then goes out to the store and buys those things. Men: A man waits till the only items left in his fridge are half a lemon and a beer. Then he goes shopping. He buys everything that looks good. By the time a man reaches the till, his trolley is packed tighter than the Clampett's car on Beverly Hillbillies. Of course, this will not stop him from going to the express lane.
Cats
Men’s Rules (women should learn these...) Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.
BEER is as exciting for us as handbags are for you. Foreign films are best left to foreigners. (Unless it's Bruce Lee or some war flick where it doesn't really matter what they're saying anyway.) If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that. Let us ogle. We are going to look anyway; it's genetic.
Women: Women love cats. Men: Men say they love cats, but when women aren't looking, men kick cats.
Children Women: A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and football games and romances and best friends and favorite foods and secret fears and hopes and dreams. Men: A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.
Dressing Up Women: A woman will dress up to: go shopping, water the plants, take the rubbish out, answer the phone, read a book, get the mail. Men: A man will dress up for: weddings, funerals.
Mirrors Men: Men are vain and will check themselves out in a mirror. Women: They are ridiculous; they will check out their reflections in any shiny surface: mirrors, spoons, store windows, bald guys' heads.
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>> costa LIFESTYLE Benetton
>> Get shorty‌ Green classic camo colour print short, with combat pocket detailing
Burtons
Plain combat swim with inserted white panel at side seam & hem
Topman
Fine stripe tailored short with front and back pocket detail
Topman
What men want >> Top it off...
>> Put your best foot forward ... Basic canvas sandal with frayed edges on toepost Burtons
>> Blue quick silver t shirt with branded print on front
Burtons
>> Tartan inspired design flip flop Topman
>> Eye eye .... Silver square rimmed sunglasses lenses with brown rim Burtons
Black plastic retro wrap Topman
Red and white striped jersey crew neck tshirt with black over print
Topman.
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Store Locator A to Z
Accessorize - www.accessorize.com La Canada/Benetton - www.benetton.com Fuengirola/Burton - www.burton.co.uk Gibraltar Evans - www.evans.com Miramar and La Canada/Dorothy Perikns - www.dorothyperkins.co.uk Miramar and La Canada
costa LIFESTYLE >> << Ella boutique bag
Topshop
>> Bag it ...
Accessorize
>> Dress to impress ...
Roomy shopper
Promod
<< Green and pink floral maxi dress
Dorothy Perkins
High wasted shorts
Dorothy Perkins
>> Leg it ... << Janie denim shorts
Yellow geo-print cotton dress Dorothy Perkins
Monsoon
What women want >> Step out in style ... >> Georgina Goodman hoes, red perspex andal
Evans
>> Georgina Goodman shoes, spot peeptoe
Evans
<< Gold peep toe sling back >> Pink fabric wedge
Dorothy Perkins
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>> costa LIFESTYLE
Flash those sexy summer pins...
Detoxing the easy way The Detox Clinic offers The Detox Foot Spa. Very much like a foot Spa that would be used for a pedicure. The treatment is known as a Bio-Energy Detox and takes just 30 minutes. The machine does not make the body detox, it bioenergetically stimulates the body to enable selfdetoxification and rebalancing of the body. The feet have an enormous number of pores - in the order of 2000 in each foot - and thus offer a point of application, which is both efficient and convenient. The water in the footbath becomes an extension of the water in the body, from which it is separated by nothing more substantial than a thin membrane - the skin. The eliminated toxins and fatty deposits are seen in the water over the 30 minute treatment and the colour varies as the treatment progresses. This treatment is not suitable during pregnancy, or for people who have a pacemaker, or people who have epilepsy. The Detox Foot Treatment can help with the following; Arthritis & Joint Pain, Menstrual Pain, Poor Circulation, Food Allergies, Migraine, Headaches, Fatigue & Irritability, Poor Digestion & General Metabolism, Cellulite and Hangovers. Every individual is different therefore how the client feels after the treatment varies. Some people feel instantly rejuvenated, others feel tired, or just relaxed. Quite often the treatment is followed by a good night sleep. The treatment can be used in conjunction with diets.
Sunburn Tipâ&#x20AC;Ś Peel and grate a cucumber. Squeeze the juice to this, mix half-a-teaspoon glycerin and half-a-teaspoon rose water. Apply this on sunburns, leave it for some time. 30 costa life
The warm weather is here and it's time to flash those pins. If your legs have been hiding in jeans or tights, you can quickly restore them by drybrushing to stimulate circulation and eliminate dead skin cells. Using a naturalbristled soft body brush, brush in a gentle circular motion from your toes up to your thighs and bum for five to ten minutes. After brushing, jump into the shower and treat your thighs to an aqua massage. Using a gentle salt-based exfoliant, massage the skin in a circular motion concentrating on problem areas such as top of legs and back of thighs. If you've got cellulite, use warm coffee grounds instead of a body scrub. It's messy but caffeine is a common ingredient used in anti-cellulite products and is proven to help eliminate lumps and bumps. To ensure an extremely close shave, soften hairs first by having a bath, as this is a great way to hydrate before shaving - hair is easier to cut when wet and supple. Try not to soak too long however, as this causes skin to wrinkle and swell slightly, making a close, clean shave more difficult. After shaving it's best to moisturise immediately, or apply your false tan. Your legs should now be in super shape.
Celebrity secrets Jennifer Lopez and Salma Hayek both enjoy aromatherapy body treatments and hot stone massages.
costa LIFESTYLE >>
New In June some of the mentioned treatments will also be available at the Bio Sculpture Gel Nail Staion in Fuengirola!
Facial and Body Treatments Body Massage and Hot Stone Therapy The Detox Foot Spa Waxing Jessica Manicures and Pedicures Bio Sculpture Gel Overlays and Extensions St. Tropez Tan & Spray Tan
Magnetic Nail Training Academy (Sol Nail Supplies and Training Academy) offers specialised nail training, in all aspects of nail technology, in the whole of Spain. We are also the leading suppliers of Magnetic Nail Products throughout Spain. We offer a comprehensive range of economically priced products for acrylic nails, gel nails and fibre glass nails. All our liquid and powder systems are primerless and are also available as an odourless UV light cured system. Additionally we have a large selection of coloured acrylics, in glitters, pastels and primaries. So if you are a complete beginner wishing to learn how to apply acrylic nails, gel nails or fibreglass nails, receive education in nail art training, manicure or airbrushing nails contact us today.
Call now for more information Phone fax 952 560 051 Mob 607 586 894 Training courses available for Acrylic, Gel, Fibreglass, manicure, Pedicure and Nail Art email info@solnailsupplies.com www.solnailsupplies.com Calle San Antonio, Centro Comercial San Juan, Arroyo de la Miel, Malaga, Spain costa life 31
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Profile: Mum, wife, personal training, and business woman!! I have loved sports all my life. As a child I was brought up to enjoy an active out door life style. Cycling, camping, running and walking were activities enjoyed by both my parents, so naturally they pushed me in that direction too. I was never really into the typical team sports of netball and hockey which were offered at my school. Instead, inspired by my parents, I was Time Trialing on my racing bike by the age of 15. I have always been well aware that my biggest opponent would never be that player on the other side of the net, or the team on the other side of the field, but would be myself, and that has always given me a massively high level of determination.
Base Camp Everest
As a busy working mum, some days can be a bigger juggle than others. I try to priorities; my children and husband come first, than my work, but I also put aside each day, some time for me! I exercise at least 5 times per week. For me goal setting is very closely linked to my own motivation, and I usually look at setting goals yearly. This year is no exception !
MAY 2007
Ronda 101 km Mountain Bike Competition
JULY 2007
Half Ironman UK
NOVEMBER 2007
New York Marathon
OCTOBER 2008
Base Camp Everest
In May I competed for the 4th time in the famous Ronda 101 km mountain bike competition, which runs through the beautiful Gasselana mountains of the national park, very similar an area to the Sierra de Mijas, where I did most of my training.
Ronda 101 km Mountain Bike Competition
The time I set aside for exercise is closely linked to achieving the objectives I outline on my training plan. My training plan obviously is based on my schedule of competitions.
Nutrition is high priority for me. Timing is very important. I have to make sure that I eat the right type of food, at the right time, in accordance to my training. As a Personal Trainer I am constantly reviewing many clients eating plans. Most of us eat too many sugars, and too few vegetables. I tend to eat five times a day at regular intervals.
New York Marathon
I am a member of the Marbella Triathlon club, and the Fuengirola Muebles Benitas Cycling Club, with whom I also train and compete in smaller competitions. I am lucky enough to have lived on the edge of the Sierra de Mijas for over 10 years now. For me this mountain range offers such a massive training opportunity for many disciplines of sports, and all in such a natural environment. The Sierra de Mijas is located 20km southwest of Malaga. It is the western end of a mountainous arc that runs parallel to the coast from Marbella. I often cycle the ring road of these mountains, that connects the towns of Mijas, Benalmadena, Torremolinos, Churriana, Alhaurin el Grande, and Alhaurin de las Torre on my road bike. And on my mountain bike like to find the many trails that meander through the interior.
For example, I eat breakfast at around 7.30 am, I have a snack around 10.30 and lunch sometime between 1 and 2pm. I always have a mid afternoon snack and my evening meal around 8pm. I gear my eating around the time of my training, and always eat something like a banana or a sports bar following a training session. I do eat a well balanced diet, which includes all the major food groups. I eat enough carbohydrates for the level of activity I have planned, and eat a minimum of 2 portions of lean protein per day. I also eat plenty of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis, and make sure everything I eat, including my snacks has a nutritional value. I drink a minimum of 2.5 liters of water per day, plus the fluids I drink whilst training. For many, the pace of modern living makes it difficult to invest time in achieving improved health and fitness, and indeed at the end of a busy day, it can be hard to find the motivation to get out and participate in some form of physical activity, especially when a glass of wine, or your favorite TV program is on offer. Recent studies show, that 90% of people who have a personal trainer achieve their goals. If you are in need of extra motivation to take your fitness levels a little bit further, why not give me a call?
Helen Johnson - Personal Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist - 617 453 550 - fitness@luv2btraining.com 32 costa life
costa LIFESTYLE >>
Gymnasium fully equipped gym with both fixed and free weights crosstrainers + bikes treadmills + rowing machines professional instructor available only gym open at 8 am
Classes over 56 fitness classes every week step aerobics, aerobics, hip hop, yoga, bums & tums, latest reebok decks new from Finland “gym stick” suitable all ages individual pilates room individual spin bike room with 40 bikes individual aerobics and exercise room with sprung floor from Sept “early bird” fitness classes at 8am Mon, Wed, Fri Goshin Ju Jitsu + Tae Kwon Do
Facilities fully air conditioned - lockers high powered showers - hair dryers mens & womens saunas - jacuzzi
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Larissaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story
R brought to you in association with
Arco ideal SL - Marbella Clinica Europa Dental - Alhaurin el Grande
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egular readers will know that over the last year I have been under going dental treatment to correct my teeth and hopefully have that perfect Hollywood smile. Our secretary's daughter Larissa also began treatment for a serious overbite and has been wearing her braces for about 10 months now. This is her story on how she feels about the treatment and what effect it has had on her life since beginning the treatment. She hopes that her story will encourage other youngsters who may want to have this kind of work but are fearful of under going such dentistry. It is pain free and well worth the time and trouble involved. The pictures here will show the remarkable change in such a short time.
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Possibly one of the happiest days of my life and that of my Mum was the day that she returned from work to announce that I had been given the opportunity to have my teeth fixed, much to my younger sister, Lidia's bewilderment, she just didn't understand what all the fuss was about and why all the excitement, little did she know just what this meant to me, to her, I'm just big sis, just Larissa, she wasn't to understand that ever since I can remember I have always been self conscious about the appearance of my teeth and longed for the day when they could be fixed also she was completely unaware of the constant taunts and ridicule that my fellow school mates put me through which were hurtful and even though my friends affectionately nicknamed me 'conejo' bunny rabbit, it still hurt and of course too many times I can remember being referred to, not so affectionately, as 'Bugs Bunny' or 'Roger Rabbit' and worse having to acknowledge that they were right. I can recall many times breaking into tears and my Mum's consoling words to ignore them and their comments, however it was difficult especially as I was about to leave the security of my primary school and begin a new stage in my life at the 'Instituto' High School. I was dreading it however now there was hope. On my first visit to the dentist with my x-rays in hand I was very apprehensive even though Ronan, who accompanied me, had already had his braces fitted tried to assure me not to worry, I just didn't know what to expect however any fears that I may have had, vanished on meeting the dentist's assistant, Raquel and the dentist himself, Dr. Joachim, who both made me feel at ease and assured me that the end result would be worth any small discomfort and that this decision was about to change the rest of my life and boy were they right. On my second visit my braces were fitted, I was warned that I would probably feel some pain during the first night while my mouth adjusted to the braces, which Ronan confirmed having experienced the pain himself, so my Mum in anticipation bought some medicine at the farmacia, just in case. I was quite optimistic as I felt no pain and was delighted as Raquel and Dr. Joachim had offered me to chose my brackets from a variety of colours, I had chosen lilac, my favourite colour, so I was feeling fairly pleased with myself. However my optimism soon changed as I awoke during the night in tears with such a tremendous pain, however Mum was at my bedside with a pain killer and even after her annoying reassurances that it would be worth it, as it definitely didn't seem worth it at that moment in time, I managed to sleep eventually and by morning the pain had vanished, what a great relief! On my third visit and feeling no pain or discomfort I was informed that my gums were inflamed, maybe through improper brushing of my teeth although I didn't understand that one as that's when sergeant major Mum normally comes on the scene and I can't recall when my sister or I have ever been able to fool her and get off to bed without brushing our teeth, anyway Raquel showed me how to brush properly to avoid any further inflammation and it works and I've passed on my knowledge to Lidia.
On my latest visit I had small elastic bands fitted to my brackets and was given a supply to change regularly. I thought I would never managed to fit them on my own but Ronan once again assured me that they were easy to fit , again I was skeptical but before time I was applying them even without having to look in the mirror. I still have about 9 months of treatment remaining and although I suffered some pain on my second visit even now I know and believe that it has been worth it and already my family and friends have commented on the change in my smile and appearance and I myself without being too vain have began to notice a big improvement and have actually started to laugh without having to bring my hand up to cover my 'Bugs Bunny' appearance, as that look has already disappeared and that gesture now a thing of the past. Even my fears of being ridiculed at High School were unfounded as there are a high percentage of pupils who also have braces fitted and I'm in fashion, especially with my colourful lilac brackets so there has been no taunting or name calling and I've even been given a new nickname, no more 'conejos', now they call me 'gatita'. Even my sister Lidia is now envious and planning to have braces fitted, hopefully they won't be necessary, she's only six, but is already planning to have a word with Ronan and of course will be choosing pink brackets to match her wardrobe!! One thing that had worried me was the thought that I would have to change my diet, I'm not one of those teenagers concerned with being the size of the catwalk models and Dad being a Chef and Italian, I couldn't miss out on my favourite dishes but yet again that has not proven to be a problem, I still eat all my favourite foods and between you and I still have the odd sweetie, although wherever I go even to school I always carry with me my traveling toothbrush and toothpaste, courtesy of Mum of course. I feel really privileged that Sharon and Ronan had me in their thoughts and decided to choose me to be featured in the magazine along with Ronan and share this special moment in my life and even more pleased that I followed in his footsteps, therefore he was able to pass on his reassurances to me, through both their help and generosity not only have they given me the possibility to have a fantastic smile but the opportunity to pursue my future with confidence. Last year I joined a theatre group in Fuengirola and have recently been called to attend an audition at the Antonio Bandera's theatre in Malaga. I enjoy acting and hopefully one day will be able to pursue my dreams, so watch this space, failing that I'll be the best primary school teacher with the biggest and brightest smile around.
I would just like to give a big personal thank you to D.r. Joachim for his painless specialized dentistry work and just a final word to Mum, you no longer have to hound me every night to brush my teeth, not only do I know how to brush properly, thanks to Raquel, I also now have a duty to look after my teeth and keep on smiling for everâ&#x20AC;Ś.......
Finally
Larissa Bonora
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How sunshine can help your unborn child… Pregnant women should get out into the sunshine to help protect their unborn baby from diabetes; Vitamin D - which the body makes from sunlight - can cut the risk of the child developing diseases such as diabetes and thyroid problems. The vitamin is found in salmon, tuna and other oily fish, and is added to milk. It is also available in supplements. It has long been known that a lack of the vitamin can lead to weak bones and rickets and recent research showed people with a vitamin D deficiency have a poorer immune system and take longer to recover from infections.
You´ve got mail Skin... Although creams, serums and supplements promise to erase wrinkles, lighten age spots, and sooth age-related dryness, experts say the simplest (and least expensive) way to keep your skin healthy and younger looking is to stay out of the sun. If you must be outdoors, use adequate sunscreen, even if you've been less than sun-smart in the past, to prevent further damage.
Body... Aging affects every aspect of your body, from your organs and bones to your muscles and joints. Start with exercise. An active lifestyle can help you maintain strength, flexibility, endurance and balance and let you age gracefully. Not only will exercise help make your bones stronger, it will also increase muscle mass, which in turn boosts metabolism so you burn more calories at rest.
Mind... Keeping your mind active, whether by dancing or working on crossword puzzles, can help you stay sharp. It also helps to get a good night's sleep as fatigue is known to make concentration more difficult. Mind-body techniques such as yoga and t'ai chi can help you feel less frazzled. A healthy diet can have great benefits and finally, exercise, particularly the kind that gets your heart rate up, may also be beneficial for keeping your brain at its best.
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A new study has proved that overweight people who use an online weight loss programme that sends them emails actually lose more weight than those who don´t receive any encouragement.
Your Heart´s Worst Enemies... The two top threats to your heart are not genetics or your cholesterol level, it´s not your blood pressure or the foods you eat. While all of these factors do matter, a new study says the two things that do the most damage to your heart are excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle. Researchers came to this conclusion that the women who didn't exercise and were more than moderately overweight ran the highest risk of dying from sudden heart failure. The bottom line is that a healthy diet and regular exercise not only can help you look and feel better but will vastly improve your health in ways few other changes can. And it's never too late to take a step in the right direction
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Dupuytren`s Disease A disabling disease of the hand
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his disease of the palm of the hand was first described by Mr. Baron Dupuytren in 1831. It is a very frequent hand problem, but even now it is still not known what is the cause of Dupuytren´s disease.
The Dupuytren´s disease affects only the palm of the hand. It is one of the genetically manifested diseases and therefore cannot be cured. Compared with other hereditary diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, it is not as disabling nor as painful and it does not spread around in the body. But a correlation has been found between Dupuytren´s disease and other diseases including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholism, phimosis (tight foreskin of the penis) and the same appearance of the disease affecting the sole of the feet (called Ledderhosen´s disease). Although the disease is well described in the literature it is often treated inadequately. The first symptoms are often not even recognized. The Dupuytren´s disease most frequently effects the fourth and fifth fingers. The disease forms fibrous bands and nodules which grow in the palm of the hand, normally starting at the level of the skin crease going across the hand close to the knuckle joint of the fingers, at the beginning often mistaken for callus formation. Within years or decades, these nodules slowly grow to become bands and strings of strong scar-like tissue. These nodules and bands won't cause any pain at all, but by growing further they start to wind around the tendons in the palm of the hand that bend the fingers. This then causes the fingers to be pulled towards the palm of the hand and one is unable to straighten the finger(s) out again.
This permanently bent finger or fingers can handicap the person dramatically making simple daily activities such as holding a glass, cooking, ironing, writing or driving a car very difficult. Most people don´t seek advice or help until the deformity starts to get in the way because there is usually no pain associated with this. Occasionally, it can cause pins and needles in the affected fingers. The only proper treatment option is surgery. During this surgery, which should be performed by a specialist trained in hand surgery, the nodules and fibrous bands are removed to allow the affected tendons to move freely again. The time to operate is determined by the amount of extension deficit of the finger (how far the finger is pulled into the palm). If only a minor degree of extension deficit is present surgery can wait for a while. But if a finger is already bent almost completely into the palm of the hand it may be too late for the removal of the fibres due to technical difficulties of actually getting to the palm and the only option would be amputation. The post operative care is not easy, involving splinting of the hand for several weeks and hand therapy. But the result is usually very satisfying, allowing the patient to return to normal daily activities including sports. But the patient should always be informed that surgery only removes the obvious bands and that the disease may grow again in other parts of the hand. But that might take many years before any effect is noted. For any further questions regarding Dupuytren´s disease or any other bone, joint or soft tissue problem, please go to
www.clinica-sandalf.com or ring 952 57 77 66
Mr Alf Neuhaus
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Col. No: 9.220
Sandra Vincenti
UK Chartered Physiotherapist Col. No: 682 Treatment of Arthritis & Rheumatism Joint Replacements - hip,knee,ankle,shoulder Hip Resurfacing Advanced Cartilage Repair Keyhole Surgery Hand and Foot Surgery Accidents & Fractures Bone density measuring available X-ray Facilities - Diagnostic Ultrasound Back and Neck Problems - sciatica,whiplash,etc. Rehabilitation - post op,post injury Emergency Accidents dealt with (ambulance service available 24hr per day)
Travel insurance & International insurance claims welcome 24HR EMERGENCY SERVICE - TEL:656 313 293 Tel: 952 577 766 - E-mail: clinica.sandalf@terra.es www.clinica-sandalf.com C./ Pepa Guerra Valdenebros, 29631 Benalmadena behind Tivoli World Arroyo 38 costa life
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The House Doctor
he House Doctor Alex, looks at ways Th to help sell that house! Brought to you by Numero Uno “The Original Real Estate Café”
There is no doubt about it kitchens and bathrooms sell properties. So how can I cheer up my miserable kitchen. Lets start with a good old fashioned scrub down, get a bucket of hot water and add a small cup of dishwasher detergent powder then stir it in until it dissolves. Using a large sponge start at the top of the wall and give everything a good scrub.
you have got them smooth vacuum off any dust and wipe them down with a soft clean cloth dabbed in white spirit and leave to dry. Now for the fun part get a can of spray paint base coat and apply evenly. Once dry you do the same again until you have built up a very smooth coating.
Dingy and gloomy bathroom
Before
What a mess!!
Starting at one end of the room and working your way around do one section at a time, then wipe dry with kitchen towel and polish with a soft dry cloth You will be amazed at how much muck and dirt starts running down your walls, more importantly you will be astonished how those grease engrained tiles and grout suddenly come back to life and sparkle. Now keeping your worktops clear and having your cupboards clean and organized should make your kitchen a lot happier.
Now you are ready for the color and white is a great choice to give your kitchen a light airy feel. For this again we use a spray paint but a high gloss enamel this time. Putting new handles on the doors will really make them look like new. Keep the clutter out of the way, and just place some well chosen pieces on to the work top. Tea, coffee and sugar canisters are relatively cheap to buy but as a color accessory can really make your kitchen come to life.
We started by taking out the old sink and unit. We bought plain white tiles for €4 a square metre and because the original tiles were very secure we tiled over them. We bought a new sink and toilet from Leroy Merlins and a few cans of white enamel spray specially formulated for baths, 4 spotlights and a new light fitting for over the sink. We spent a total of €260. This was the fruits of our labour.
Lovely
After
That’s better!!!
Still not sure? Maybe your cupboard fronts want a facelift. White kitchens are classical and can make the room seem larger. If your old kitchen has wooden doors try giving them a coat of paint. The best way to achieve great results is to take the doors off and remove the handles then lie them flat on old newspapers, rub them down with wire wool to remove any flakey or blistered varnish, when you are happy
Just take a look at the before and after shots (above) of a really sad looking kitchen.Total expenditure to achieve this makeover was €500 which included paint, tiles, adhesive, grout, worktops and white melamine panels. Every unit was re-used but the configuration was changed to give a cheap but dramatic effect to a tired old kitchen.
But what about those stinky old bacteria ridden bathrooms!!
Bathrooms should be bright light and clean looking. So lets put some zing into this poor old dingy looking bathroom.
Accessories are what creates the colour. You can change the look of your bathroom every week if you want just by having a few different coloured towel sets and a couple of decorative candles to match.
Watch out for next month when we tackle a damp ridden basement apartment!!
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Salvia canariensis
Written by
Simon Hill
There is wisdom in a sage veryone has tasted sage and onion stuffing, had rosemary or mint sauce with roast lamb or experienced the scent of lavender in perfumes or household products. All these plants belong to one family, the Lamiaceae (or Labiatae), which includes a wealth of species of great diversity and is found in all parts of the world, especially around the Mediterranean. Many of the plants that we see on roadsides or in the fields belong to this family. In addition to those mentioned above, many other herbs that we use so often in the kitchen belong to this family: thyme (Thymus spp.) marjoram, oregano (Oreganum spp.) and lemon balm (Melissa sp.) to mention only a few.
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One of the best known is the common Sage (Salvia officinalis). Salvia means sage in Spanish and derives from a Latin word roughly translated as 'health giver' or 'healer'. It's therefore not surprising that common sage and many other species of Salvia are important sources of pharmacologically active compounds with valuable therapeutic properties. A tour around the members of this single genus takes us around the globe and they are found in every continent. There are very few countries in the world that cannot include Salvia in their flora. Spain, and AndalucĂa in particular, has many wild species of Salvia, both annual and perennial. Salvias in our region tend to have pastel colours, ranging from white through to blue. Height, leaf shape and texture differ widely. This variation between species makes Salvias very interesting as garden plants. Many species from all around the world will grow well in our region, surviving both summer drought and winter frost, and are beautiful in flower and foliage. What more could we ask of a plant? Salvia sclarea (Clary Sage) is a biennial (lasting two seasons) native to the Mediterranean basin. Although so short-lived, its survival is guaranteed year after year through self-sown seed. When this plant self-seeds freely,
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seedlings allowed to survive give an interesting and natural look to flower borders. In flower in May and June, the plant reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres with white or pale mauve flowers in large spikes emerging from rosettes of large grey-green leaves. It is happy in full sun but tolerant of light shade, and is an excellent addition to a low maintenance 'natural garden'. The Clary Sage was once more common before the widespread use of herbicides. Sadly it is now encountered only occasionally during country walks. This sage is reputed to have aphrodisiac properties but I personally would not advise you to try it! Straying from the Iberian Peninsular to the Canary Islands, we find Salvia canariensis. This has to be one of the most outstanding Salvias of the world and fully hardy in much of our region. Its sheer size (1.5-2 metres) and beauty makes it a splendid shrubby perennial for dry gardens, needing no maintenance other than an annual cutback once established. It has silvery grey leaves and abundant spikes of pink flowers set in dark pink calyces, providing a stunning display from late spring into autumn. The Canary Island Sage is a rare species both around the islands and in gardens here. Although it grows extremely well it is rare here because, as in the case of all too many wonderful garden plants, the Garden Centres don't sell it. A member of the Andalucian Garden Group based in AlhaurĂn el Grande gave me my specimens. From further away, as another example of the diversity of the Salvia family, comes Salvia microphylla, syn. S grahamii a species native to Mexico and Central America. This has long been grown in the gardens of southern Spain, and is occasionally naturalised in hedgerows, but is rarely seen on sale. Once established in the garden it requires little attention other than cutting back each year. Little if any watering is needed during the summer months. Salvia microphylla is a perennial plant with a bushy habit, growing to one metre and spreading sideways a little more, and is fully hardy in our climate. Scarlet flowers appear almost continuously throughout the year, though more noticeably from late spring to autumn.
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Lavandula stoechas
Salvia sclarea This species has been a parent in the production of many hybrids of varying colours and great merit for the garden. Another Salvia from the Americas is Salvia guaranitica. This is another big plant, growing up to two metres with really spectacular large, dark blue flowers, but it does need occasional watering. The Salvias mentioned are just a few of many outstanding species suited to gardens with our climate, so few of which can be bought from the Garden Centres. In Stachys Byzantina northern Europe where winters are more severe than here, some Salvias are used as bedding plants and treated as annuals. With our mild winters, these plants are perennial. Salvia spendens (the bright scarlet flowers of municipal bedding schemes) and Salvia farinacea (lovely blue spikes) are two examples that can easily be bought. Though short lived, these plants can give enjoyment for several years. I have a nice clump of S. farinacea now into its third flowering season. Apart from Salvias, many other genera within the Lamiaceae provide outstanding plants for our gardens. One excellent example is Stachys byzantina (Lamb's Ears). This plant requires full sun in order to thrive and forms a large mat of striking, furry, silver leaves. No watering is needed once it is established. Large flower spikes appear during late spring bearing dark pink flowers. Pruning and division help this plant to thrive for many years and it is very effective as an edging to pathways. Lavenders, also members of the Lamiaceae, make brilliant shows in the garden not just with their flowers but also their scent. A wide range of species and varieties are available in our region and are suitable as low hedging or as single specimen plants. Beware! Pruning back into hard wood can destroy lavender, as too can over watering, where gardeners
Salvia microphylla have heavy clay soil. Sadly, certain domestic animals can cause severe dieback. Once established, lavenders do not like to be pampered. In their natural habitat they prefer well-drained, poor soils and summer drought. Many species used in the gardens of Europe have their origins in AndalucĂa. Lavandula stoechas is one species, often known as French Lavender, which in fact grows wild around much of the Mediterranean. In spring, tight, terminal buds produce clusters of bluish-purple flowers and each cluster is topped by two purple 'wings'. Bees love this plant! Plant breeders have extended the range of colours available, introducing white and pink. The wild species is abundant in the hills and mountains of AndalucĂa and plants are a fine sight on a sunny bank side or brought into the garden. The utility and beauty of the Sage family has been exploited in European gardens for centuries. Medicines that we could not do without today have been developed using these plants. Sadly, in today's world many of these species in the wild are regarded as weeds and killed indiscriminately with herbicides, even along roadsides where they do not compete with crops. Why is it so impossible to allow beautiful wild plants, including many of the Lamiaceae, to survive along the road edges and be enjoyed by passers-by when they are in flower?
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STEP BY STEP GUIDE to buying a property in Spain hen you have finished your long hard search and settled on the right Spanish Property for you, please don´t trip up at the final hurdle.
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Make sure you are never pushed into making a rash decision on a property until you are perfectly happy with your choice, and that you are sure you want to complete on the sale. There are, sadly, still horror stories of people being ripped off and conned out of small and large amounts of money, but if you go through an established estate agent and arrange suitable legal advice, your buying process should be smooth and trouble free from start to finish. One thing you will have to accept when buying a property in Spain is that the world of officialdom and paperwork is not quite what it is back home, and some things are done quite differently from the UK. You must try to accept this early on, to avoid more worry than necessary. Hopefully this short guide will give you some useful pointers to guide you through the process as smoothly as possible.
DECISION TIME >> SO, you have seen 100´s of properties, your agent´s going grey, you can´t quite decide between property a and property b, it´s all getting a bit much… and then you find it: The property you always imagined! Now the fun begins, as it´s time to make an offer. At this stage the Spanish system is no different to the UK. The buyer makes an offer and the vendor either accepts or rejects that offer. If agreement is reached verbally you should instruct a lawyer immediately to act on your behalf.
INSTRUCTING A LAWYER >> Choosing the right lawyer is a very important part of the buying process, and bear in mind that you could well be dealing with the same lawyer for some time to come, and they will probably end up acting on your behalf if you should sell the property. As in so many things, the best way to find someone good is a recommendation.
Once you have narrowed down your search, it is time to contact an agent. Don´t be scared, many of them don´t bite! There are many more estate agents in Spain than there are in the UK, mostly because of the recent property boom, so you should try to use a little care when selecting an agent. Ask them if they are part of any recognised professional body, and maybe how many property listings they have on their books, or how long they been established in Spain, for example. The fact is that your feeling is usually the best judge. Other than that, a recommendation from someone who bought from the same company is probably the best way to choose.
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PUBLIC CONTRACT – The notary public. This is the final stage in buying a Spanish property. Both parties must attend the notary on or before the date stipulated by the private contract, at which time the balance of the purchase price is paid, and a new title deed is prepared and signed by the notary. Mortgages will also require a separate deed, and outstanding mortgages must also be cancelled at this point. Once the deeds are signed they will be then be submitted to the land registry for registration.
THE BUYER´S COSTS >> As a general rule, the costs of buying a property in Spain should be no more than 10% of the purchase price. These costs are as follows: Transfer tax: the Spanish equivalent of stamp duty, currently 7%. Lawyer´s fees: most lawyers in Spain charge 1% of the purchase price, depending on what services you ask them to proved. They will probably charge more if you ask them to act as “Power of Attorney”, for example.
THE PROPERTY SEARCH >> Always do your research! The increasing use of the internet has proved a significant to both buyers and sellers of property, and is more and more becoming the first place people look for Spanish property. Some websites provide even more useful information such as area guides, property news, and even newsletters. Try and go through as many magazines as possible to get a feel for prices. You can pick some up in the UK in places like WH Smith´s but there are many more to choose from once you have arrived in Spain.
deposit 10% with the seller´s lawyer, and the other reason why this stage of the process is so important is that it defines a date by which time the parties must complete.
Notary and Registration Fees: These should be no more than around 1000 Euros, depending on the price of the property.
PAYING A HOLDING DEPOSIT >> Once you have made your decision and your lawyer is happy with the terms and conditions of anything you are asked to sign, it is time to pay a holding deposit. This deposit is usually 3000 Euros on smaller properties, and 6000 on larger properties, and is usually held by the estate agent, in order to take the property off the market until the private contract is signed. These deposits are often paid “subject to mortgage” until a certain date. This means that buyers are given a certain amount of time to arrange the finance, and will not lose their deposit if the finance is not granted.
PRIVATE CONTRACT – The point of no return. This is the most important stage in the whole process, as if either party pull out afterwards, they must compensate the other party with (typically) 10% of the purchase price. On signing the private contract, the buyer will
The fees may rise if you are taking a large mortgage, for example, as banks and mortgage brokers in Spain charge higher opening fees that UK equivalents. They will be repaid as part of the mortgage total, however, so it is difficult to give an average figure. 44 costa life
All other costs should be paid by the seller, including all estate agents fees, capital gains tax, and an incremental land tax called “plus valia”. As a final piece of advice, the oldest one in the book probably holds more true today than ever before:
Buyers beware, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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Swimming Pool Construction Hydrasol offers a range of pool designs using the highest quality materials and an efficient reliable service. Hydrasol pools are hand built using steel reinforced concrete and carry a 10 year guarantee. Our Standard Price will include Construction of steel reinforced concrete shell Mosaic tiling and cenefa with decorative motif White non slip or tiled surround capping Good quality pump and filtration system in its own housing with three shut of valves waste water clearance, two skimmers and three jets Two Pool lights External shower Full care and maintenance tuition
General Construction
Swimming Pool Enhancements
Hydrasol offers a full building service for all your reforms, extensions and home improvements. All work is carried out by professional experienced builders and is project managed throughout to ensure your complete satisfaction
Most people in Spain only take full advantage of their pool area for a few short months. If your pool seems more work than pleasure Hydrasol can supply a range of products to help you enjoy your outdoor space all year round.
Full or part Reform,
Quality efficient Pool Heating
Pool Houses , Garages and Storerooms
Spas and Hot Tubs to suit every space and pocket
Bespoke Fully Fitted Kitchens Patios,Terraces, Paths and Driveways Interior and Exterior Tiling
Wide range of Pool Covers from simple roll away to fully automatic safety covers Automatic Pool Cleaners and Chemical Dosers Pool Reforms
685 977 958 or 617 713 420 info@hydrasolsl.com
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Cool and Contemporary
LivingRooms
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Written by
Lydia Green
This style does not need a big budget to achieve: a simple change to accessories or even a fresh lick of paint can get you a big result. A living room can be a special challenge as it is the room we spend a lot of time with family and loved ones, so it needs to be comfortable and enjoyable. Follow these little hints to create a chic home with a modern edge.
C
reate this look on any budget: do some research, choose a theme and colour scheme, and then hit the shops and see what you can get for your money. Take a tip and remember you want to achieve a contemporary look which has a minimal accent; so less is more and stay clear of clutter. Focus on the look you want to achieve: for example a cool colour scheme with touches of Nordic neutrals or a warm colour palette with Japanese influences.
>> Back to Basics The look you want to create is sleek and clean and you can start with repainting or, if your living room is already painted, add bold and daring wallpaper to the chimney breast or a feature wall to create drama and interest. Another idea is to paint wide horizontal lines in three tones on a feature wall for a different touch. When painting the walls, choose shades of brown, taupe, cream or pure white. However neutral does not mean boring, so be sure to infuse the room with small splashes of a more vibrant, bold colour. Add some wall art to a plain wall: repeat images look great or enlarged black and white photography gives an unusual visual accent to a wall. Other such wall treatments are covering a large canvas or even a small wall in a suede or leatherette. This is a chance to insert individuality or a theme. Add tribal masks to give an African influence or abstract art with streamlined shapes and bold colours.
>> Fine Furniture Stainless steel, nickel and chrome metals are prevalent in contemporary design, providing a decorative framework of sleek finishes. Furniture, end tables, lamps featuring beautiful metal accents provide this look. If you are lucky enough to afford to change your furniture you will be like a child in a sweet shop: there are fabulous pieces of contemporary furniture available on the high street at affordable prices. Sleek lines, chrome accents and bold colours are the ingredients to minimal furniture. There are fantastic shaped sofas and unusual side tables in an abundance of fabric treatments to suit anyone's taste. If you cannot afford new furniture, try recovering a sofa or just adding a simple throw. Even a side table can be brought up to date with a covering or a touch of paint. Flooring needs to be simple: again you can cover existing flooring with a simple geometric pattern or plain rug. If you can replace, then wood is probably the most popular and efficient choice. Another choice of a typical contemporary flooring is clay or slate which looks fantastic although is cold to touch, so do consider this.
>> costa life 55
>> costa HOMES >> Play Time The most fun part of creating a room is putting the accessories in place, as that's where the theme starts to come together. Adding mirrors to a room opens the space and reflects light - great in a smaller space - and there are stunning and unusual mirrors available from most department stores or mirror specialists where you may even have your own design made. Other additional touches for completing your contemporary room are vintage art deco pieces to add a touch of character. Large angular vases are fantastic for creating the look, along with textured cushions and rugs working the rough with the smooth. One word of caution - stay away from elaborate patterns or intricate details when choosing fabrics, as this will confuse the clean, contemporary look you are trying to achieve. Lighting is vital in any scheme, particularly in this theme, and is often seen as the key in illuminating the room's design. When choosing lighting for your home, there are many new choices available that provide interesting, clean lines. Track lighting or floor lamps are popular in contemporary design and often utilise metals or bold colours to reinforce the other metal accessories or splashes of colour incorporated into the room. Use chrome ceiling fittings or large oversize lamps; a room can even work well with recessed lamps but stay away from fancy light fittings with floral and detailed decoration: keep it simple. This style is based on minimalism but you can have plenty of fun in the process.
New Trends This season's contemporary trends are: Modern Metallics:
silver and pewter dominate this trend; ultra modern and cool with the use of metallic mirror frames and lamps, satin and silk cushions and curtain treatments. Op Art:
eye catching and hypnotic with the combination of two colours or contrasting colours and using simple shapes and large sculptured pieces of furniture and bold designs to create this pop art inspired trend. Nordic Neutrals::
using creams or stone enriched with duck egg blue is a winning combination. It has a clean, slightly softer and comforting feel; a modern mood juxtaposition with furniture and accessories in crisp fabrics, lacquered or deep brown leather furniture and smoked glass pieces to contrast with the warm neutrals. This trend tends to be best used in a family home. Salon chic:
Inspired 1950s couture with the use of pale greys combined with deeper tones and highlighted with soft creams and lots of texture.
56 costa life
Images supplied by: PR. Shots
Delightful penthouse apt in the village of Mijas. Has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, lounge/diner, kitchen and a terrace area with sun awning, built in wardrobes in bedrooms. Tv/radio antenae connections and quality marble floors throughout. Fully fitted kitchen. The apartment is also fully air conditioned and heated. Communal pool, outstanding views of the coast and surrounding countryside. This property is ideal for letting purposes and has been very successful to date.
Stunning villa with 4 beds and 4 baths just outside Mijas Village. Views are spectacular and uninterrupted of the coast and countryside.A spacious, private family home which also has a self contained, guest suite consisting of bedroom, bathroom and sitting room with access to the swimming pool and lower terraces. The pool area is well laid out with rustic tile terraces and sun awnings. Off street parking in a carport. The property is in an elevated spot, has been well maintained and is a delight to view.
Spacious, 1st floor apartment, with lift, in Mijas Pueblo, in the centre of village life. Has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen with a separate laundry off, a lounge/dining room and large terrace with views to the sea. The apartment has marble flooring throughout and all bedrooms have fitted wardrobes. The property has A/C, Sky television, telephone point and is approx. 142sq. metres built, with a terrace of 15sq. metres.
NV 44
NV 233
NV 378
Price: 285,000€
Price: 695,000€
Price: 360,000€
Stunning villa in Mijas Pueblo within easy walking distance of the village. Consists of 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, lounge, dining room, kitchen and delightful terrace areas all around the house. There are 250 sq metres built and the plot size is 716 sq metres. There are views to the sea and mountains, has A/C, 2 fireplaces in the reception rooms, an alarm system, swimming pool, a carport and a separate garage.
Fully furnished, 3 bedroom townhouse, on the outskirts of Mijas Pueblo with private parking. Consists of lounge / dining room, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully fitted, modern, kitchen and separate laundry/utility room. Benefits from underfloor heating and full A/C units, satellite TV, easy to keep gardens and stunning views of the coastline. There is also a communal pool.
Delightful villa in a secluded area of the village of Mijas. Consists of 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, large lounge with working fireplace and split level dining area. There is a rustic style kitchen with access to an outside laundry and private swimming pool. This is a lovely family home.
NV 382
NV 384
NV 380
Price: 865,000€
Price: 325,000€
Price: 650,000€
Restored, village townhouse in Mijas Pueblo, with great views. Renovated and lovingly improved into a spacious family home consisting of 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a living-room and well designed, newly fitted, kitchen leading onto a breakfast patio with feature rock and staircase to the next level. There is more external space here and a further roof terrace, which has a covered area with seating, and is accessed by using the outside spiral staircase. There is street parking close by.
This bright, tidy end of row house is on 2 levels. property comprises living/dining room, kitchen, 1 double and 1 twin bedroom, 2 bathrooms, and lots of outside living space with built-in barbeque. wonderful views form both levels of the house. is ready to move into, having been recently modernised. The furniture is not included in the sale. The community of Mijas La Nueva has 2 communal swimming pools, tennis courts and a restaurant
Delightful apartment in Mijas village close to all the amenities.This fully furnished and equipped property has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, kitchen and a lounge/dining room with feature open fireplace. The apartment is spacious and the bedrooms have fitted wardrobes. The flooring throughout is stylish, fitted when the property was renovated some years ago. There is a communal swimming pool, communal terrace areas making this a great holiday hideaway.
NV 184
NV 386
NV 373
Price: 375,000€
Price: 285,000€
Price: 185,000€
Ref: MLSV504260 La Sierrazuela Villa 720,000€ 5 Bed, 5 bath, 630m² Plot, 240m² build, 2 kitchens. Carport for 4 cars. Pool: Private, Garden: Private, Facing: East and South. Views: Breathtaking, Coastal, Mountains, Open, Panoramic, Sea. Features Air con Hot/Cold, Aluminium Carpentry, Automatic Entrance, Barbecue, Cellar, Condition - Good, D/Glazing, En suite bathroom, Fireplace, Glazed Terrace, Guest Apartment, Ideal Family Home, Independent partment,Sat TV
Ref: C4006
Fuengirola
Bar de Tapas
190,000€
This is a Tapas Bar close to the centre of Fuengirola, it has been open for 9 years and has been running steady ever since. it has a bar, some table inside and a little terrace to sit 12 people outside too. Call for more information
Ref: MLSV504213
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Entrerios
Ref: MLSP504267
Mijas
Building Plot – 269,990 €
Atico- 154,500 €
This is an Elevated Building Plot, with 1785m² with the possibility to build 25% Views: Breathtaking, Coastal, Mountains, Open, Sea. Features Quiet Location
2 bed, 1 bath, 65m² Build. Community terrace Views: Castle, Partial Sea, Town. Features Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Close to all Amenities, Condition - Fairly Good, Conveniently Situated Schools, Easy Renting, Gres, Lounge Dining Area, Near Transport, Solarium, Walking Distance to Beach, Walking Distance to Rest., Walking Distance to shops.
Ref: 147
Ref: 238 - Las Lagunas
El Chaparral
Villa- 680,000 €
3 bed, 3 bath, 1,100m² plot, 160m² build Pool: Private, Garden: Private, Facing: South Views: Sea. Features Alarm System, Automatic Irrigation System, Cellar, Double Glazing, Excellent Condition, Fireplace, Guest Apartment, Marble Bathroom, Solar Heated Water, Solar Panels
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Finca
-
1,990,000€
4 bed, 4 bath, plot 10,200m², build 480m² Close to Golf, Furnished, Fitted Kitchen, Garage, Private Pool & Garden, separate guest house of 200 m², with two independent apartments. Southwest. Views: Countryside, Hills, Mountains. Features: Air con, Irrigation System, Bar, BBQ House, Dining Room with Fireplace, Double Glazing, Electric Entry Phone, Fruit Trees, Guest House, Horse Boxes, Library, Marble Bathroom, Private Area, Satellite TV, Solar Panels.
Fantastic Offer 1,990,000€
Ref 255 - Benalmadena costa - Townhouse - 435,000€ 4bed, 3,5 bath, 180m² build, 240m² plot Townhouse, Good Position, Fitted Kitchen, Parking: Private, Pool: Communal and Private, Garden: Community and private Views: Sea. Features 2 Community Pools, Air conditioning, Landscaped Gardens, Attic Room, Double Glazing, Alarm System, Storage.
Ref: MLSA504266 - Fuengirola Centro
Ref: 260 Mijas Villa Price: 495,000€ 3 bed, 3bath, 670m² plot, 200m² living area. Villa, Good Position, Furnished, Fitted Kitchen, Parking: Off road parking, Garden: Private, Facing: South Views: Mountains, Open, Sea. Features Charming Property, En suite bathroom, Fireplace, Full of Character, Good Road Access, Irrigation, Living room with dining area, Patio, Some Renovation Needed, Satellite TV.
-
Adosado
-
425,000 €
4 bed, 2 bath, 320m² build, 120m² terrace.Views: Mountains, Panoramic, Urbanisation. Features 2 Parking Places, Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Dishwasher, Double Glazing, Fireplace, Fitted Wardrobes, Living room with fireplace, Marble Bathroom, Patio, Walking Distance to T. Centre
Ref: MLSA504239
Mijas-Costa - Apartment - 210,000 €
2 bed, 2 bath, 67m² build + 12m² Terrace. Close to the Sea, Furnished, Equipped Kitchen, Parking: Garage, Pool: Communal Pool, Garden: Community, Facing: South and West Views: Garden, Partial Sea, Pool. Features 24H Security System, Access to Beach, American Kitchen, Double Glazing, Easy Renting.
Ref:MLSTH504224 Mijas Costa - Touwnhouse - 245.000 € 2 bed, 2 bath, 90m²Build, 10m² terrace + a little patio. Features Access to Beach, Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Alarm System, Close to all Amenities, Good Rental Potential, Good Road Access, Living room with dining area, Living room with fireplace, Marble Floors, Tennis, Quiet Location, Satellite TV, Storage, Well maintained community.
Beautiful romantic Finca in rustic style with separate guesthouse in Estepona. €1.680.000 7 Bed - 6 Bath - Build: 525 m2 - Plot: 3095 m2 - Private swimming pool – Sauna - Solar panels Water tanks Ref.nr: 36042
Apartment in Mijas Golf
Apartment Torreblanca – Fuengirola
close to sea
1 bed 1 bath Fully furnished Built: 65 m2 Terrace: 8 m2 Facing: Southwest Communal pool
2 bed 2 bath Built: 76 m2 Terrace: 97 m2 Glazed terrace Private sauna Private garage and Storage Communal pool
Ref.nr: 33318
Ref: 35975
€ 157.500
Penthouse with stunning views between Mijas and Fuengirola
€ 299.000
2 bed 2 bath Built: 85 m2 Terrace: 20 m2 Garage & Storage Communal garden with swimming pool, Gym and Sauna
4 bed 3 bath Glazed terrace Build 337 m2 Plot 627 m2 Terrace 110 m2 Garage
Ref: 35951
Ref. No: 32295
€262.500
Villa in Mijas Costa with sea and mountain view
€650.000
costa HOMES >>
specializing in
Fincas Country Villas Townhouses Cortijos Ruins Plots
952 498 454 mobile: 609 454 409
AP59: Partially built house situated off the road to Valle de Abdalajís. The house is distributed over 2 levels. The lower floor will provide 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a further 2 bedrooms, kitchen and lounge on the upper floor to take advantage of the views. The house is set on 12,000 m2 of good flat land planted with olives. Well water. The location is excellent with spectacular views. This property offers good value for money and gives any buyer the opportunity to stamp their own identity on it.
AP221:Fantasticnewvillasituatedonly5minutesdrivefromAloratown hostingpanoramicviewsandexcellentaccess.Thepropertyison2levels withabasementwhichoffersfurtherdevelopmentpotential.Thevillahas3 bedrooms,2bathrooms,1WC,averylargeloungeandkitchen,270m2 built. Thepropertyisfullyfencedwithelectronicentrancegatesona10,000 m2plot,plantedwithalmondtrees.Thevillaboastsan8x5mswimming poolwithterraceidealforentertaining.Thereisalsothepossibilitytobuilda 60m2almacen.Thevillahasmainswaterandelectricity.Firsttoseethis propertywillbuy.
PRICE: 245,000€
PRICE:510,000€
AP321: Pretty village house in a pedestrianised street with views over the most historical part of Alora. The property is newly decorated and being sold fully furnished. Accommodation is on 2 levels. The property offers a lounge, open plan kitchen/dining room, 3 bedrooms and bathroom.109m2 built on a plot of 144m2. There is lots of outdoor space offering many sunny and shady areas together with outbuildings offering further development potential. The house has spectacular views of Alora castle and valley. Mains water and electricity.
AP409: A three bed-roomed townhouse in a quiet street of Alora within walking distance to all shops and amenities. The house is on 3 levels and does require renovation. The street level offers an entrance hall and a bedroom/office. The second level offers 2 bedrooms, kitchen and a sitting room. The upper level comprises of a roof terrace, laundry room and a bathroom. Nice views of the town. Water and electricity connected.
PRICE: 125,000€
PRICE: 85,800€
tel:
enquiries@aloraproperties.com www.aloraproperties.com Plaza Fuente Arriba s/n Alora
costa life 61
It’s a Summer Finca Fiesta!!
REF DPSF-089 Two delightful houses on a landscaped plot of 3,000m2. Superb value for money. Separate entrances leading to house 1 with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, fully fitted kitchen, spacious lounge/Diner and minstrel gallery, house 2 has lounge/diner, fitted kitchen, bathroom and two spacious double bedrooms with patio doors. Private swimming pool, plenty of terraces, BBQ, and water feature, immaculate and first class -
DPSF-127 Excellent New Finca in Alhaurin,fantastic views and in a very good area. 85m2 build plus terrace, three beds, family bathroom,beamed ceilings, lounge/diner and fitted kitchen. Lovely grounds, private swimming pool, fenced and gated.
559,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
299,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
430,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF-292 Delightful, new listing country property in Alhaurin with three beds and two baths (one ensuite). Large lounge with patio access to covered terrace and private swimming pool. Fully fitted kitchen and in beautiful condition.The property has BBQ, parking and is fenced and gated in a lovely area of Alhaurin
REF DPSF 263 Excellent property, this renovated farmhouse has history, charm and character, 360 degree views with five bedrooms, three bathrooms and situated just outside Coin in the country with good access to Marbella and the coast. Boasting six terraces, Ponds, private infinity swimming pool, two self contained apartments, this totally unique property must be seen and has even more potential. 240m2 build on an 8,000m2 plot. Offered at -
399,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
630,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 280 Double delight. Two houses, 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms.Excellent well presented property at present operated as Bed and Breakfast. 180M2 main house with large Salon, Dining room, Kitchen and Five large bedrooms all with ensuite and private terraces. Aircon and Sat TV. A separate 60m2 casita offers owners accom. with one bedroom, one bathroom, salon and kitchen. 3000m2 grounds are walled, private and well laid out with delightful pool area, sun terraces and a feature jacuzzi set in the terraces, fantastic opportunity 535,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSV 284 Large spacious Villa situated close to Alhaurin el Grande set in 1000m2 mature gardens with palms and shrubs. The house is two storeys and has four double bedrooms and four bathrooms (3 ensuite), lounge/diner, fully fitted kitchen and a choice of covered/open sunterraces for al fresco dining and entertaining. The house boasts a pool deck with covered outside lounge area, BBQ terrace and several outbuildings that could be converted. Great value for money and offered at -
REF DPSF 243 A lovely tranquil Finca with 130m2 build on a fenced and gated 5,800 plot of land only 5 minutes from Alhaurin el Grande. Excellent condition and only 4 years old this property has three double bedrooms with two bathrooms (one en suite) lounge with Patio doors to huge terrace, fireplace, kitchen, utility room etc. Outside you have covered BBQan extra large swimming pool, Hot and cold air conditioning, delightful property in a very good area. Amazing value, reduced to sell at -
REF DPS 190 Panoramic views from this charming Finca situated in a great position near Alhaurin el Grande, minutes from the town the house beamed ceilings, has three double bedrooms (one en suite) two bathrooms, lounge, Kitchen, two storage rooms, private swimming pool and terraced area. The land is laid to Olives for easy maintenance and it is fully fenced and gated. Superb property at -
545,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
390,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
390,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF-294 Beautiful and well presented Finca situated in Alhaurin el Grande, surrounded by Olive and Citrus groves. The property has three beds and two and a half bathrooms, a large Salon with beamed ceilings, dining area and fitted kitchen. Beautiful gardens surround the property and you have a seperate rustic casita in the grounds and private swimming pool. The plot is 10,000 m2 and the build 160m2 plus casita.
REF DPSF 244 Beautiful country estate property with fully restored Cortijo property situated in a 60,000m2 plot of land affording beautiful views and total privacy. Private drive to delightful walled courtyard, private terraces. Impressive in size and offers four large double bedrooms, three bathrooms, full central heating, a large kitchen and informal dining area plus separate large Formal dining area, big lounge with fireplace leading to outside covered terraces. The swimming pool is walled, free form and situated away from the main house with separate pool house. A truly amazing property that must be viewed. Reduced from 779,000 759,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
REF DPSF 248 Beautiful new home, this Villa/Finca in Alhaurin el Grande has fantastic views, situated in a very popular area. Three beds, one en suite with large balcony, two baths, lounge with patio doors to terraces, kitchen and utility room. Delightful swimming pool and outdoor area. 10,000m2 plot of land to ensure privacy electronic gates and patterned pave Crete drive, a lovely house in a great position -
559,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
HUGE REDUCTION
REF DPSF-279 Good sized Finca of 140m2 on a 2500m2 flat plot of land in a great area. 4 bedrooms and three bathrooms (1 ensuite) spacious Salon (30m2), fitted kitchen and a large roof terrace suitable for extending the accommodation. Outside Mature palms and shrubs and a private 10x5 swimming pool with large sun terraces, excellent condition and great value for money. Reduced by 50,000€ to -
515,000€. WHY PAY MORE?
Feature Property
CAR360 - Cártama €262,500 A fabulous & charming country home that enjoys wonderful views over the Guadalhorce Valley. 2 double bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a fully fitted kitchen plus a lounge/dining area with a fireplace. Private yet with good access. The home sits in a lovely plot of 2,500m2 Like this? Then checkout VFR359 on our website
ALA478 - Álora
€515,000
Fabulous split level modern and stylish country home (132m2) in a great location with wonderful views, 4 beds 2 baths & a WC. The gardens are landscaped - low maintenance and extremely attractive and the swimming pool is beautiful. Town water, mains electricity and a landline telephone already installed. Like this? Then checkout EDC435 on our website
ADT481 - Alhaurín de la Torre €735,000 Architect designed quality home with swimming pool. This is a superb home - modern and practical with 3 beds, 3 baths and a huge lounge. All rooms are light and airy. It is located on an exclusive urbanisation with great access & all services. Like this? Then checkout out AEG476 on our website
Feature Property
ALA202 - Álora €186,000 A great place to escape to. Just look at the 360 degree views! Small but perfectly formed 1 bed, 1 bath, newly built country house. A huge (over 30,000m2) plot of land, planted with olive & almond trees. The access is 6km on a good rural track. Like this? Then checkout ALA354 on our website
CNN479 - Coín CNN477 - Coín €1,600,000 Incredible country manor with 76,000m2 of land, stables, a barn & more outbuildings, pool, fenced garden area plus tarmac access all the way! 4 beds, 1 office, 3 baths, fitted kitchen and much more. Call to view. Like this? Then checkout out AEG340 on our website
€995,000
Homes don´t come better than this! 5 beds, 3 baths, 2 kitchens, charm, character, immaculate landscaped gardens with mature trees & lawns plus the rest of the 24,000m2 full of avocado trees, great pool, stables, paddocks, terraces, balconies, garage & amazing views plus a completely separate guesthouse - all at a price to sell quickly! Like this? Then checkout ALA338 on our website
costa HOMES >>
Authentic, Old Farmhouse (Álora)
Built: 135 m² Land: 20.000 m² 3 bedrooms · 1 bathrooms Restored with great care Pool · Own well · Nice views Ample kitchen + living room Storage room with 30 sqm Priced to sell · 275.000€
Country House (Alozaina)
Built: 132 m² Land: 6.400 m² 3 bedroom · New Construction Living room with 40 sqm + chimney + genuine wood · Rich in water · Magnificent views 1.5 km to main road 200.000€
Old Authentic Farm House (Yunquera)
Built: 95 m² Land: 60.000 m² Very charming Riverside Property with private access Renovated · 2 bedrooms · 1 bath · Abundant water · Pool 4,6 km from main road 245.000 €
New Rustic Villagehouse
( Yunquera )
Built: 138 m² Land: 47 m² 3 bedrooms · Aircon · Prime quality · Elec. heating throughout house · Genuine woodwork Completely furnished ( oak ) Central location, yet quiet BARGAIN.......... 112.000 €
costa life 65
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH MAVL-355 Alhaurin el Grande
699,500€
Beds: 3 Baths: 3 Build: 150m2 Plus 9m2 Store room. Plot: 19,000m2. A wonderful private villa in a prestigious area with spectacular views. This property has been finished to very high standards, is light and airy and the gardens are perfectly landscaped and charming. The villa has air-conditioning central heating and everything you need for a warm home.
MAVL-347 Alhaurin el Grande
Price on Application
This lovely villa is situated in a sought after area. Attractive mature garden with lovely trees, fantastic pool area and outbuildings which can easily be converted into extra accommodation. This is an enchanting villa really must be seen, new on the market and a great buy.
MACR-342 Mijas Costa
3,250,000€
Build 1,000m2, Plot 10,000m2 Beds 5, Baths 5. Situated in the heart of the Andalusian countryside, but only ten minutes from the beaches and bustle of the Costa del Sol. It has five suites, individually designed, with an ample sitting area and large terrace affording magnificent views of the surrounding mountains. It has its own swimming pool and tennis court and it is only a few minutes away from nine golf courses, three riding centres and the Costa del Sol race course. A truly beautiful property, traditionally Spanish but with that modern touch.
MARP-350 Alhaurin el Grande
299,000€
Beds: 3 Baths: 1 Build: 100M2 Plot: 3,000M2 Great little house with lovely views, nice swimming pool and excellent location, Bargain.
MAVL-349 Alhaurin el Grande
385,000€
Bed: 4 Baths: 3 Built Area: 190m2 Plot 6,400m2. Perfect house with spectacular views in a sought after area. A separate self contained apartment and huge garage or work shop. The property has electric gates and is fully fenced, a perfect for property for keeping horses.
MACR-329
900,000€
Build 275m2, Beds 5, Baths 4, and Plot 6000m 2. restored property situated in an area of outstanding beauty, yet only a ten minute drive to Coin. The main house, which has been fully restored, comprises of a lounge with beamed ceilings, a separate sitting area and doors leading on to a covered terrace. Fully fitted kitchen/diner. A patio, leads out to the huge master bedroom upstairs, with en-suite, a further two bedrooms, both with ensuite. From this patio you have access to the guest apartment, still in its original condition. It has a small lounge with a fireplace, a bathroom, a kitchen area and a dining room. Upstairs is the main bedroom which leads directly on to a second bedroom. The property has mature gardens and a very large swimming pool and a barbecue area.
MACR-303 Alhaurin el Grande
899,000€
Beds:4 Bath: 3Plot: 10,000m2 Build Area: : 150m2 main+ 60m2 guest house+6+4m2 office 12x14 Stables. exquisite equestrian property new on the market this property is located in a sought after area, There are good size stables, tack room, a hay barn, Sand arena 20 x 40m2, post and railed and a big exercise area. The property is set back off a good road, great for hacking; there is ample parking, big enough for a lorry, easily accessible for vehicles, and close to amenities. There is also a separate one bed roomed self-contained guest apartment or groom’s accommodation, Both properties have satellite tv air-con hot/cold, main house has a log burning fire Also a wooden house used as the office.
PROPERTY 2 OF THE MONTH
MAVL-306 Alhaurin el Grande
795,000€
Beds: 6 Bath: 4/half Build: 315m2 Plot 10,000m2. ccharming property in a sought after part of Alhaurin el Grande.two properties on this superb plot; Main villa has 4 bed 2 bath and a private pool. The second is very private and has 1 bed with en-suite, a 20m2 storage room with nice views, could be 2nd bed, 1 bath, kitchen/ lounge, lovely terraces and a gorgeous pool. Both properties have Air-con hot and cold, independent sat TV, internet and in the main villa a tphone. The properties are in a perfect position with magnificent views of the country side and mountains, the entrance leading up to the villas is private and the track is tarmac ked Full of character, beautifully decorated throughout and have superb gardens with outside kitchen and BBQ area
MAVL 362 Alhaurin El Grande MARP-354 Coin/Alhaurin El Grande Build 125, main house, Plot 500m2, Beds 4, Bath 3. A lovely property on a small plot situated within walking distance to Coin town centre. The house is tastefully decorated though out, has a wonderful pool and seating area and has separate guest accommodation.
725,000€
Beds: 6, Baths: 4, Build: TBA, Plot: 7000 m2. Just on the market a spectacular property totally secluded in tranquil setting, trees a stream and plenty of space, BBQ area, outside kitchen with well tended gardens. If it is luxurious privacy you want then this is for you. The property comprises of 4 bedrooms, lounge, sitting room and a dining room, kitchen, 2 bathrooms. This property has 2 self contained guest apartments. There is also ample parking and a garage. Superb swimming pool.
PROPERTY 3 OF THE MONTH
MANL-195 Mijas
1, 260,000€
Beds: 3 could be more Bath: 3 Bullid 450m2 Plot 1,200m2. A FAIRYTALE CASTLE OF A VILLA! IMPRESSIVE LUXURY VILLA IN AN ELEVATED POSITION WITH PANORAMIC SEA VIEWS IN A QUIET, SELECT AREA OF MIJAS The price includes all the quality furnishings. All this and wall to wall sunshine.
Mavl-209
2,650,000€
Beds, 5 en-suit Baths, Build, 700m2, Plot 62,000m2. Two hundred years ago a farmhouse was built on the borders of Alhaurin and Mijas. All 5 bedrooms are en-suite with whirlpool baths or hydro/massage showers. Three of the bedrooms have walk in wardrobes and wrap around balconies. There are many reception rooms each with its own character, a tower room with panoramic views, many cloak rooms, luxury kitchen with a joining laundry room, and huge grand dining room with a charming open fireplace. The outside reception area leads on to the pool bar with a spectacular BBQ area, a heated pool and separate Jacuzzi also there are male and female changing rooms. There is separate fully self contained 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment, also there are provisions for a 2 bedroom bungalow or a recording studio. Permission and ample space for tennis courts or paddocks, there is new stable block for 4 horses and also a helicopter landing area. Other features Include, 2 Pairs of electric opening gates 20 Air conditioning/heating units, independently controlled, 2 solar heating systems, under heating. Automatically irrigated lawn. Private 100m tarmac drive to the house. Double glazing throughout, 62,000 square metres of rustic woodland envelope the house. The exclusive valley is surrounded by mountains offering fantastic views and seclusion.
MAVL- 333 Coin
299,900€
Build 115m2, Beds 2, Baths 2. Plot 10,000m2. A very beautiful property in a great sought after location close to all amenities and with in walking distance to the town centres of Coin. The property is gorgeous throughout and has the most gorgeous views of the country side. Other features, Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Fireplace, Fitted Kitchen, Fitted Wardrobe and an Independent Studio.
PROPERTY 4 OF THE MONTH
MACR-309 Alhaurin el Grande
From 50,000€
A perfect opportunity to purchase or rent luxury offices in a sought after part of Alhaurin el Grande. All offices can complete with kitchens and toilet, light and airy and a beautiful court yard with a water fountain. Perfect for the investor. Also 4 apartments prices from 130,000€ Perfect for the investor
MARP 371
MAVL- 301
259,000€
Build 110m2, beds 4, Baths 2/half. A wonderful property on a very small select urbanization of only 10 houses. The property is at the top end of the urbanization, with a exquisite natural park behind and divine panoramic views of the country side. The 10 houses are on a private fenced plot, with a car park and concealed swimming pool. All the houses have the option to use another swimming pool and tennis courts on the main urbanization should they wish. The property is located next to a impressive golf course and 5 minutes to the Alhaurin town. The house is very spacious with many terraces and a beautiful private garden.
629,000€
Alhaurin El Grande - Rural Beautiful 4/5 bed plus 2 bathrooms, lounge, dining room 220 Sq m build on 6000 sq m plot. Ideal situation in highly sought after part of Alhaurin El Grande. Good access, 20 min walk to town. Ideal property placement high up enough to enjoy summer breezes whilst not so high that it will suffer from cold in winter. Well laid gardens and superb kidney shaped pool. The grounds would be ideal for a horse owner as addition of an extra gate will give a secure paddock area. Separate outbuilding that gives an outdoor kitchen plus a BBQ area. Covered terrace all down one side of property. Finally absolutely superb views. Priced realistically to sell, a must to add to your viewing list.
MAVL - 268 Alhaurin el Grande
541,000€
Beds: 4, Bath: 2, Build: 214m2, Plot: 2,000m2 A lovely villa in a fantastic area, with gorgeous views the property has great potential and would make a lovely family home.
MAVL- 314 Cartama
475,000€
Build 150, Beds 3, Baths 2, Plot 3000m2. This is a beautiful newly built Finca, located on the hills overlooking Cartama Estacion. The beamed interior has a working open fire in the living area. This property boasts one of the best views in the area with amazing uninterrupted views to the south looking towards the bay of Malaga and to the west towards the mountains behind Mirabella. The Finca is built in true “RUSTIC” style and also has a large garage which could be used as a workshop/study/further bedroom.
MALV 369
525,000 €
Alhaurin El Grande A lovely property NEW ON THE MARKET . This villa is in a sought after area, and in immaculate condition. Spectacular views from the garden and pool area. The house has been finished to very high standards and has the added bonus of a conservatory/office at the front and another dining room/conservatory overlooking the pool . This Property will sell fast, viewing highly recommended.
PROPERTY 5 OF THE MONTH MACR -145 Alhaurin El Grande
749,000€
Beds: 10, Baths: 5, Build: 285m2, 42m2, 64m2. Plot: 18,500m2. A fantastic very private property with great character and potential, presently used for residential and commercial purposes. There is a main house is a huge wooden structure of only the best standard, with exquisite terraces all around, offering breath taking views over the country side and mountains. Close to the main house is a second property which comfortably accommodates families or groups, and although smaller than the main house it is of the same high standard. Moving completely away from these two properties and a short walk or drive is the third house. Set beautifully in its own grounds, with private swimming pool, BBQ area and a pleasant stream at the end of the plot, you get a real sense of tranquillity here. This house yet again is like the others, on 2 levels and can accommodate groups of people at ease. Additionally there are well constructed stables with all the facilities needed for horses, including space in which to exercise them. If you were not interested in keeping horses, there is also the alternative to convert the stables into yet more accommodation for renting out to holiday makers. All though the summer it has been continuously rented. The owners of this property benefit highly from its income, the main house allows brings in 1,500€ a week, so from a business point of view it can be extremely rewarding. There is the option and facilities to provide guests with bed and breakfast should they choose this or leave them to provide for themselves. There are many areas for guests to relax, around the two swimming pools, terraces or walk/ride through the lovely mountains. The location is truly divine, the countryside, mountains and views are spectacular, and a real place to take it all in, unwind and relax.
MARP-344 Alora
365,000€
Beds: 3 Baths: 3 Build: 140m2 Plot 13,000m2. Casa La Paz lies nestled in a tranquil valley on the edge of the famous El Chorro natural park. Built 18 mths ago it offers every modern facility you could wish for. Views from every angle of the property are stupendous. Backed by the El Chorro Mountains and facing down the valley to the town of Alora, a 20 minute drive away, Casa La Paz offers you a haven of peace. The property has 3 beds, all on suite, 2 of theses are s/contained making the perfect place for friends to visit or even to let . Also a well decorated living and dining room and a modern fully fitted kitchen.
MALV 363 Coin - Rural
699,000€
Beds 4/5, Baths 3, build 300 m2, Plot 3500 m2. Fabulous country location between Coin and Monda. Exceptionally spacious and airy property maintained to a very high standard. Fitted luxury kitchen with all modern appliances. Beautiful staircase and entrance hall, large bedrooms with very generous lounge and dining area. Charming throughout with great views in a quiet and relaxing part of the countryside
MAPR-359 Alhaurin El Grande
450,000€
Build 139 plus 40m2 outbuildings, Beds 4, Baths 2, and Plot 3,600m 2 A fantastic property in a sought after area. An urban house in the campo, with great gardens, a divine entrance and drive, also huge potential to extend. The property is with in walking distance to Alhaurin el Grande town.
>> costa HOMES
Costa Business Advice â&#x20AC;Ś Brought to you by David Fairweather from Bars in Spain SL
Do You Network? The old adage about "It's not what you know but who you know" can often prove to be true and in many ways no more so than here in Spain. Generally speaking the Spanish people like to get to know each other a little more before doing business together. For many of us who decide to move to Spain and start up or buy our own businesses it can be a long and arduous process with invariably a lot at stake. Besides the obvious minefields associated with buying any type of business or property in Spain and finding good lawyers, accountants, tradesmen etc., it can be very difficult getting started and finding your first customers. Depending of course on the nature of the business and the potential for repeat business from each customer, to grow our businesses we also rely on referrals and testimonials from existing customers.
So in effect, as a member of a BNI branch with say 45 members, then your 44 colleagues are potential sales people for your business and at each meeting members exchange business referral slips. I was recently at a BNI meeting with 43 members present where no less than 118 business referrals were exchanged. A member of this particular branch some years ago received a business referral from another member that subsequently resulted in a 750k contract for that year, which has been renewed each and every subsequent year! BNI also operates a Code of Ethics to ensure that every aspect of the organisation and its members operate to professional standards.
It is also almost impossible to get a business started without some form of business and marketing plans and sales and marketing activities and another good way of getting business can be via business networking. Networking is a term widely used these days to cover a number of different things and of course there are many different forms of networking organisations, clubs, forums and websites addressing their own brand or interpretation of what networking really is. I was recently introduced to an organisation called Business Network International or BNI, which describes itself as a "Business Referral Organisation." Having run businesses for many years in the UK I was surprised that I had not heard of BNI before. However after some initial scepticism and much investigation, I have come to the conclusion that for me BNI must be one of the best kept secrets in business, as they are in fact the largest business referral organisation in the world. BNI is not like many other networking organisations in that, although it runs weekly meetings (usually breakfast meetings), it is not a social or any other kind of club. It is there solely to generate business for its business members. Again unlike many other networking organisations there can only be one member from each and every different business sector in each branch. In this way all the members of the branch work for each other and there can be no conflicts as to who the business referral goes to.
So how does BNI work?
Another old adage is "You only get out what you put in" and this is very much the case with BNI. Becoming a member of BNI is much more than paying a modest membership fee, it requires discipline, commitment and work. As such BNI's philosophy is "Givers Gain": in other words by giving business to others you will get business in return. 70 costa life
of my own persona, but BNI really helps in this regard, as in effect it places you in a highly efficient networking environment with a number of like minded people, all with a primary purpose of giving and receiving business referrals. I always remember a quote I heard many years ago as it seems very appropriate to networking:
"Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, but just look at what they can do when they stick together." BNI meetings also give you an opportunity to promote your business to your fellow members as each member can give a sixty second presentation on their business each week and a longer presentation on a member rotation basis. Members can also meet on a one to one basis outside the weekly meeting and are also encouraged to bring visitors who may be interested in joining their branch, as the more members there are in a branch..... the more potential business referrals to go round. BNI was started in 1985 in California and is now represented in over 36 countries worldwide. Hundreds of millions of dollars of business is passed in referrals by BNI members annually and this figure continues to increase each year. There are now thousands of BNI branches around the world so they must be doing something right for a lot of people!
Who should join BNI?
Quite simply anyone who is dedicated and committed to getting more business should be interested in joining BNI, but they must also be committed to attending the meeting every week, as the strength of the organisation and each branch within it is the dedication and commitment of its members to their fellow members and of course, to getting more business. This will only work if people attend the meetings, as the more members that attend the weekly meetings, the more business referrals that will be exchanged and the more potential business for the members! Anyone who needs more business should be interested in joining BNI. Clearly if you have more business than you can currently handle then this type of organisation may not be for you. However, in reality, there aren't that many of us who would turn away the chance of more business! Some people are natural networkers but many of us are not. As a relatively shy person myself, networking has never been a natural extension
There are members of BNI from all walks of life and all types of businesses from gardeners, plumbers and electricians to bank managers, accountants and lawyers, artists to dentists and web designers to architects, so remember gardeners and tradesman work for all types of clients who may be interested in all types of products and services from houses and cars to legal advice or physiotherapy. BNI is a business referral organisation with the primary aim of generating business for its members and it is not an elitist club that only high flyers and the idle rich can join. But remember, like most things in life, with BNI you only get out what you put in. So Good Networking to you all! If you would like more information on Networking with BNI or would like more information on how to get more from your business, call 952 499 401.
Bars in Spain SL is a Franchised Real Estate Network throughout Spain offering business advice & information for anyone considering starting or purchasing a bar, business or franchise in Spain. To find out more call 952 499 400 or visit www.barsinspain.com
>> costa STUFF
A Bloke, A Bike, and the road to...
a ñ a p Es Part ONE
My
Portsmouth
Caen
Rennes
Nantes
Niorte
Sants
Bordeaux
Biarritz Zarautz
Written By:
Lee Jay
intention is to travel to Portsmouth to catch the Caen Ferry. My wife Pat will be driving our Citroen van and I'm riding my motorbike, a Suzuki VS800 Intruder. Then we'll motor south through France, into Spain, travelling down past Madrid, through the mountains and on to Málaga and the main motorway to our new home. I don't feel too concerned about the Bike - it's more ME. Well it's a bit of a trek and the bike only holds enough fuel for 100 miles so my journey is going to be governed by fuel stations as well as the problems of being on the wrong side of the road. Pat, on the other hand, will probably need just a couple of stops on her way. Every time I look at the maps, I try to work out where there might be petrol stations and what the French and Spanish are for, "Fill her up" - at least I've only got to have euros and not francs and pesetas.
Vitoria - Gasteiz
Where to stay overnight is another concern and finding a place that's clean and cheap with a smattering of Anglais would be good. There must be a European equivalent to Travel Lodge.
Madrid
Valdepenas
Well we're actually off and, having shuffled furniture and stuff around Sunday 1st September 2002 Sussex, the time has arrived. The van's tyres are bulging and the springs at the back are screaming for mercy but both van and bike have been serviced and checked, so there shouldn't be any problems…hopefully.
Granada
Malaga
The weather is great and it should a blast going for ride on a lovely Sunday morning, but the enormity of the journey ahead is starting to dawn. It looks dead easy on paper after a couple of bottles of wine. I'm making silly mistakes and I know I have to really concentrate on everything going on around me.
Surprisingly I arrive at the ferry port alive and ahead of Pat and we're in time to catch the earlier boat. That sounds good to me as it means we land at 10:30 pm and can get off to a good start travelling through the night. 72 costa life
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Luckily Pat makes it to the terminal well in time and tickets and boarding passes are issued, together with stickers for both bike and van. You're supposed to attach them to the rear-view mirror so that as you board the boat the staff can see you've paid but motorbikes don't have centrally mounted rear-view mirrors, so where do you stick the damn thing. In the end I opt for the front forks after trying all sorts of strange places including wrapped around Taz, the lucky mascot my son Alex has awarded me. "You've got the map, haven't you?" Luckily there's a shop at the terminal where maps are sold and we both buy maps. One would have been enough as we intend travelling in convoy. Both bike and van are aboard and so are we, like excited kids on a school trip. The bike is anchored down and stowed by an extremely dubious looking French bloke in bright orange overalls and a little girl's straw hat with a pink flower who seems totally oblivious to the fact that this is not really normal. My bike is tied down next to a couple of bikes from the Midlands. The two blokes riding them have the best of wet weather gear, all made in heavy duty waterproof breathable material. I can't help thinking they remind me of Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble. Fred explains that they're going on their annual pilgrimage around various historical houses and watering holes in Normandy. When I tell them of my planned trip there's a sharp intake of breath. There's a large French registered BMW bike: a couple returning to near Caen after a weekend in England. "And where are you going?" they ask. "Spain." A French sharp intake of breath. I'm not worried - honest. As the ferry heads out of Portsmouth, we watch England getting smaller. It's a smooth crossing with just a gentle breeze to interrupt the autumn sunshine. Relaxing in the reclining deck chairs neither of us sleep as we intended to. We sort of doze and talk, and talk and doze, until the evening begins to chill. Darkness has fallen, together with the twinkling of lights from the French coast. This is it then, riding on the wrong side of the road with lots of sign language and funny money. Time to get out of my jeans and wrap myself up in leather. I'm taking a change of underwear and a couple of T-shirts in my saddle bags along with some toiletries but that's all I've got room for. Making my way down to where the bike is, I meet up with the other motorcyclists who all look at me with the same pitying look of utter disbelief as you do when you encounter a lost cause. We disembark then I'm to follow Pat through Caen as she can read the map and drive and I feel this particular task is not well suited to bike riding. The number one priority now is fuel. After a short distance we find a fuel station which is open. Pat's first to the pumps: the van's half full of diesel and to fill up now will probably get her most
Easy Rider... of the way through France. Small hiccup: no cashier and a sign says NO ENGLISH CREDIT CARDS. No fuel then, great, I can travel about another 20 miles on what I have left in my tank. We move on down on to the main trunk road and after a mile or so a large articulated truck overtakes me and pulls in behind Pat. Damn, now I can't see her at all so I overtake and, as I finally get past the truck, I realise the road ahead is empty with no Citroen backlights. Both truck and Pat are now heading down a ramp on to another road and I'm still on the previous road. Great but surely there'll be a junction up ahead where I can turn round and come back because I know she'll wait for me. Three miles further is the junction I need to turn round on. Well no, actually it's to a village with no petrol station. Luckily I'd kept one of the maps, so I manage to work out a route back to the main road. LOST IN FRANCE - you know the song. So back on the main road and there's the turning I need disappearing past me, missed it again. Repeat performance but this time after a tour of one of the local industrial estates I find the junction and the road I need to be on, I think. You see I'm now so confused I'm not even sure which country this is but the only thing I am sure of is that if I don't get some petrol soon I'm walking. My mobile doesn't want to receive any networks at the moment so things are not looking good and it's now gone 11pm so a night of luxury on a soft Normandy bed seems unlikely and I haven't even seen any hotels. It looks like I will run out of petrol and I don't really fancy pushing the bike along the motorway. As luck would have it I find a rest area and park but there's no fuel station, just a loo and picnic tables. The phone still isn't finding a network so I sit on the kerb feeling rather lost and more than a bit lonely. Well I guess there's nothing for it so I may as well bed down for the night. In a blinding flash of brilliance I'd packed a sleeping bag on the bike. At least I have something to sleep in but snoozing on a bike is not a very practical idea. I pick a picnic table and unroll my sleeping bag. I feel a bit like a cross between a boy scout and a great western pioneer, except I've got no beans or coffee and I'm cold. One of the spare T-shirts comes out of the saddlebags and is swiftly put on. I wheel the bike over and park it next to my stylish new bed. With my boots on in case they're nicked while I'm asleep, and with my helmet and jacket for a pillow I settle down for a peaceful night's slumber. HAH! As well as travellers who stop to use the loo, there's the eerie sounds that always fill the night when you camp out and my head is full of thoughts about this rather daft concept of riding the bike to Spain.
THE bike....
I'm cold and tired and wet from the early morning dew and more sniggering French drivers pull up and peer at this hapless bundle laid out on a picnic table.......
to be continued...
costa life 73
>> costa STUFF Written By
Dave Wakelin
REVIEW
>> The Boy With No Name - Travis Coming four years after the 2003 release '12 Memories', Scottish four piece Travis comprising of Fran Healy, Dougie Payne, Andy Dunlop and Neil Primrose return with their fifth studio album 'The Boy With No Name'. Executively produced by Nigel Godrich and with extra production duties coming from Mike Hedges and Brian Eno, the album sees the band continue with the anthemic indie pop that inspired the likes of Coldplay, Keane and Starsailor. The album is named after Healy's son, Clay, whom Healy and his partner Nora were unable to name until some weeks after his birth. Healy has described the process of making the album as "like coming out of the forest", and that the band are now "in a good place".
>> Hymn for My Soul - Joe Cocker Hymn For My Soul' unites Joe Cocker, possessor of one of the world's most instantly recognisable and iconic voices (Lennon & McCartney's With A Little Help From My Friends, anyone?), with Ethan Johns, who has proved both his worth and his Midas touch via albums he's produced for, among others, Rufus Wainwright, Emmylou Harris, Ryan Adams, Razorlight, Kings of Leon, and Ray LaMontagne. The union has resulted in one of the most accomplished pieces of work in the Sheffield-born singer's long and illustrious career, and one played by arguably the most stellar band to be assembled in a recording studio anywhere in the world in recent times.
>> Snakes and Arrows - Rush Simply, Rush are back to their best. VT and TfE are good, but not Rush's best stuff. However, it has to be said that Rush are an exceptional group that don't fail to impress and as a previous review has stated, after a few listens every album they have done is top class. The reason they take a few listens is because they are so inventive in their style and continue to attempt new and original ideas in their work, new concepts always take time to be fully appreciated. Snakes and Arrows is excellently performed and produced to a standard you just won't find anywhere else.
>> Music City Soul - Beverley Knight After a decade of successful contemporary Soul/RnB album's Beverley Knight gets back to the classic old school soul sound. If the likes of Sam Cooke, Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Otis Redding and Marvin Gaye are your 'thang' then this album is for you. Each track was recorded live, instead of layered, to keep that classic soul sound. Produced by Mark Nevers and featuring session musicians who have worked with legends like Al green and Elvis Presley. Also featuring, The Rolling Stones, Ronnie Wood (a huge fan of Ms Knight) on three tracks: 'Every Time You See Me Smile', 'Black Butta' and 'Ain't That A Lot Of Love'.
>> Are You Listening - Dolores O'Riordan It's been a long wait for the solo debut from Irish icon Dolores O'Riordan. After all, the Cranberries issued their swan song in 2001. After their breakup, O'Riordan collaborated with Germany's Jam and Spoon, Italy's Zucchero, and David Lynch composer Angelo Badalamenti. She also appeared, as herself, in the 2006 comedy Click. All the while, she toiled away on her first solo effort. Fortunately, good things come to those who wait. Coproduced by Youth (the Verve, U2), Are You Listening? is a throwback to 1980s-era Siouxsie and the Banshees and Sinead O'Connor--sweeping keyboards, forceful drumming, and muscular guitar work.
74 costa life
All CDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s above can be purchased online at www.ccfmradio.com
>> costa STUFF
>> Dreamgirls Starring: Jamie Foxx, Beyonce Knowles, Eddie Murphy, Jennifer Hudson, Danny Glover Dreamgirls follows the rise of a trio of women who have formed a promising girl group - The Dreamettes. At a talent competition, they get the opportunity of a lifetime: to become the back-up singers for headliner James 'Thunder' Early. Though the Dreams become a crossover phenomenon, they soon realize that the cost of fame and fortune may be higher than they ever imagined
>> Hot Fuzz Starring: Simon Pegg, Timothy Dalton, Jim Broadbent, Steve Coogan, Martin Freeman, Bill Nighy, Edward Woodward Top London cop, Police Constable Nicholas Angel (Simon Pegg), finds himself reassigned to the sleepy West Country village of Sandford. With garden fetes and neighbourhood watch meetings replacing the action of the city, Angel struggles to adapt to his situation and finds himself partnered with Danny Butterman (Nick Frost), an oafish but well meaning young Constable. Just as all seems lost, a series of grisly accidents motivates Angel into action. Convinced of foul play, Angel realises that Sandford may not be as idyllic as it seems...
Blood Diamond Starring: Jennifer Connelly, Leonardo DiCaprio Set against the backdrop of civil war and chaos in 1990's Sierra Leone, Blood Diamond is the story of Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) - a South African mercenary - and Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) - a Mende fisherman. Both men are African, but their histories as different as any can be, until their fates become joined in a common quest to recover a rare pink diamond that can transform their lives. While in prison for smuggling, Archer learns that Solomon - who was taken from his family and forced to work in the diamond fields - has found and hidden the extraordinary rough stone. With the help of Maddy Bowen (Jennifer Connelly), an American journalist whose idealism is tempered by a deepening connection with Archer, the two men embark on a trek through rebel territory, a journey that could save Solomon's family and give Archer the second chance he thought he never would have
Music & Lyrics Starring: Drew Barrymore ; Hugh Grant The romantic comedy Music And Lyrics By follows Alex Fletcher (Hugh Grant), a washed-up 80s pop star whos been reduced to working the nostalgia circuit at county fairs and amusement parks. The charismatic and talented musician gets a chance at a comeback when reigning diva Cora Corman invites him to write and record a duet with her.....
brought to you by La Cala 76 costa life
See our advert on page 98
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Costa
Cuisine by Jan Morley of FreezerMor
PASTA - Healthy food from the Heart of the Med! This time of year the less time spent in the kitchen, the better, quick recipes are the order of the day, Pasta is so versatile, you can "dress it up", or "dress it down", easily transforming it into dishes fit for any occasion. It can be homemade, fresh or dried and in a multitude of shapes and colours, although most commonly made from durum wheat, they are now many different varieties on the market, e.g. rice pasta, especially good for those on a wheat free diet. We'll explore the joy of home-made pasta on a cooler day, so dried or bought fresh pasta will suffice our recipe today!
This recipe has all the robust flavours and seasonal ingredients of the Mediterranean... Perfect for a quick supperâ&#x20AC;Ś
ROUSTIC RIGATONI with
SPICEY SAUSAGE METHOD
SERVES
4
Prep. Time 15 mins Cooking time 30 mins 1. Cook the pasta in rapidly boiling water as per instructions on packet, until al dente, drain. 2. Meanwhile skin the sausages, dice and fry until cooked, drain off any excess fat, put sausages onto a plate 3. Heat the oil in the same pan, fry the onion, 2-3 minutes, add the garlic, aubergine ,courgette and continue to cook stirring occasionally 340g (12oz.) rigatoni pasta for another 5 minutes. (thick tubes, with lines) 4. Add the all the 250g ( 8oz) your favourite spicy sausage tomatoes, fresh and e.g. Chorizo canned, plus the juice, stir 2 tablespoons olive oil in the sausages, the 1 large onion, roughly chopped cannelloni beans, season 3 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed with salt and freshly 1 aubergine, peeled and diced ground black pepper. 1 courgette, peeled and diced 5. Simmer until the 4 plum tomatoes, blanched, skinned and diced vegetables are soft, 10- 15 1 can chopped tomatoes minutes 1 jar or tin of cannelloni beans 6. Add the olives, then stir (or white kidney beans) in the cooked pasta 2 tsp chopped fresh oregano 7. Serve with a generous Salt and pepper sprinkle of parmesan! 125g fresh parmesan, grated 30g (1oz.) black olives, optional
INGREDIENTS
78 costa life
Pasta-Shapes Pasta comes in all shapes and sizes. The tiniest shapes are often used in soups, long ribbons or strands with sauces, and tubes and fanciful shapes in casseroles and pasta salads. Some shapes are large enough to be stuffed and baked, and others, like ravioli, come already stuffed. Pasta can be coloured and flavoured with a wide variety of pastes, such as sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, beetroot, black olive paste, or even squid ink! Fresh herbs, garlic, saffron or even curry powder are often added to make more interesting varieties of pasta.
PASTA HEALTH FACTS Pasta and Health Pasta is a "good" carb. Carbohydrates are the source of most of the body's glucose, which is the crucial fuel energy source for the brain, red blood cells, muscle and organs. Pasta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates. Pasta is not a "white" food. Pasta is golden or amber because it is made from semolina flour, which is ground from durum wheat. White flour used to make white bread is ground from common wheat. Pasta is nutritious. Pasta is a good source of B vitamins, iron and niacin. It is very low in sodium and is cholesterol free. Pasta has a low Glycemic Index (GI) of 41. This is similar to the GI of a pear, legumes, beans and nuts, and less than the GI of pumpernickel bread. Pasta has a low glycemix index, so it does not cause sugar in the blood to rise quickly. (Glycemic index measures how rapidly a carbohydrate triggers a rise in blood sugar; the higher the number, the greater the blood sugar response.)
costa STUFF >>
costa life 79
Money, sex and rumours Hollywood is ever thus… Could Catherine Zeta Douglas 37 be having an affair? just days after what appeared to be a romantic dinner with her 62 year old husband Michael, Catherine was seen in public flirting and holding hands with Aaron Lockhart, her co-sstar in the up coming comedy No Reservations, Yes they do fall in love in the film, but insiders suggest that they are taking their work home. Ekhart aged 39 is showing over enthusiastic attention to Catherine. This has angered Douglas, both have been seen and heard recently exchanging volatile differences of opinion in public…Is Halle Berry in love again! Since her Oscar triumph five years ago, little has gone right for Halle; now with a hot new film Perfect Stranger with co-sstar Bruce Willis, Halle 40 with two failed marriages has a new love Versace model Gabriel Aubrey aged 31. “My mother told me, if you can’t be a good loser, you can’t be a good winner” does this mean that Halle is finally going to have some success in her public and private life…70 year old Warren Beatty who has had bedded more girlfriends than he has had birthdays, with once a reputation as Hollywood’s Don Juan finally confides how it all came to an end. He took Annette Benning aside during the making of the film Bugsy, and told her, “I’m not making a pass at you, but if I were to be so lucky as to have that occurrence happen, I want to assure you that I would try to make you pregnant immediately” Benning, Beatty’s wife became pregnant the first time they slept together…Ever since Arnold Schwarzenegger became governor of California he has been using his muscles to his political ends, now Arnie has been invited to attend the Conservative Party Conference in Blackpool England and make a speech about climate change, they better watch out for his right hook…British actor Sir Ben Kingsley 62, who looks more like Gandhi than Gandhi did is having another attempt at marriage his fourth, his new wife is actress Daniela Barbosa who is 32 and at 5ft 9in towers over the diminutive bald Sir Ben…Yet another remake is on the cards as Sienna Miller is being tipped to squeeze into a futuristic bikini for the remake of the cult film sci- film Barbarella, that originally starred Jane Fonda in 1968…Sienna’s ex beau Jude Law, who some think is trying to out do Warren Beatty’s Don Juan title is paying a lot of public attention to Israeli born actress Natalie Portman, “they are out together all the time, and the body language between them is quite explicit”, says a friend…will the former Bond star Pierce Brosnan end up bald?, he is said to be tearing his hair out after son Chris has been seen snorting cocaine in public, just weeks after he declared himself clean, while his other son Sean is soon to make a name as an actor, Pierce says “he has a genuine flair for acting, on top of being talented, and all the girls seem to adore him” sounds like a chip off the old Bond to me... So what else is new?
costa STUFF >>
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>> costa STUFF
STRANGE BUT TRUE Driving in Spain…
Indicators are used only to protect the paintwork of your car when parking. When parallel parking it is essential to nudge both the car behind and infront- this ensures that your car will fit and tells everybody you are here as it sets the alarms going on both cars. Bumpers are the main parking aid on any car. When driving on the Carretera any space left between you and the car in front will be filled by a Spanish driver. Hazard warning lights allow parking anywhere. All speed limits are advisory. Do not stop at Zebra crossing as Spanish people use the crossing as a meeting point for chat, and stopping will only cause the driver behind to crash into you. Do not hold grudges - you must realise that all drivers will cut you up. Spanish drivers do have very poor eyesight so do need to be on your bumper at all times. Most scooter riders in towns and villages here are very aware of the damage that can be done to elbows which is why they wear a crash helmet on them. To blend in with other drivers never stop or indicate when approaching any traffic island.
You got me for amusement purposes only, right ??
Learn to shout ¨thank you would be nice¨ as it would relieve the frustration when giving way to locals
Great truths about growing old… Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. Forget the health food. I need all the preservatives I can get. When you fall down, you wonder what else you can do when you're down there. You're getting old when you get the same sensation from a rocking chair that you once got from a roller coaster. It's frustrating when you know all the answers but nobody bothers to ask you the questions. Time may be a great healer, but it's a lousy beautician. Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone.
Great truths that little children have learned… No matter how hard you try, you can't baptise cats. When your Mum is mad at your Dad, don't let her brush your hair. If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person. Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato. You can't trust dogs to watch your food. Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair. Never hold a Dust-Buster and a cat at the same time. You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk 82 costa life
The four stages of life… You You You You
believe in Father Christmas. don't believe in Father Christmas. are Father Christmas. look like Father Christmas.
Sudoku and Crossword answers for Issue 27
Across
Sudoku
costa STUFF >>
5 2 3 7
7 8 4 4
1 6 3 4
3 5 9 1
9 4 7 8 1 7 6 9 4 7 7
2 3 7 1 8 5
The rules of Sudoku: place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell, so every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9.
CHALLENGE
1 Flaky mineral 5 Roguish 9 Fundamentals 13 Branding tool 14 One in the spotlight 16 Animal’s stomach 17 Not rifled 19 Ike’s ex 20 Swift’s forte 21 Relayed 23 Classic art subject 25 Sluggish 26 Strike down 29 “Ulysses” hero Stephen 31 Camera part 32 Presidential initials 33 Astaire-Rogers classic 36 Hamburger’s connection 37 Get tough 39 “Foucault’s Pendulum” author 40 Fandango accompaniment 42 Elderly 43 Den 44 Bright star in Auriga 46 Dizzy 47 Hardly ever 48 Federal agent 50 Cascade 52 Medicinal syrup 56 Chief Norse deity 57 “Oh! Carol” singer 59 Debatable 60 Desert mounds 61 “Exodus” author 62 The A in A.D. 63 Metric prefix 64 Confined
Down
1 Overlook 2 “___ La Douce” 3 Codger 4 Applies an unguent 5 Hurt 6 Graycoat 7 Hoofbeat sound 8 Harbinger
crossword
9 Misbehaved 10 “___ Revisited” 11 Officially accepted works 12 Ugly Duckling, eventually 15 Take a chair 18 Veracious 22 Hair-styling emporium 24 Classic Icelandic poetry 26 Bullet 27 List of options 28 Sign 30 Flynn of film 32 Promontory 34 Corrosive chemical 35 British conservative 37 Escapade 38 Blind part 41 Italian naval base 43 In a row 45 Name for many a theater 46 Open-mouthed stare 47 Hazardous gas 49 ___ Solemnis 50 Senseless state 51 Prong 53 Concern 54 Analagous 55 Play group? 58 Stage of a journey
costa life 83
>> costa STUFF
HAVING A NEW
REPTILE R
eptiles are one of the most interesting groups of pets that we see at Myramar Animal Hospital and also one of the most challenging!!
We include in this group the true Lizards who come from a huge, varied species group of around 7,150 different individual types, amongst which are the Green Iguana and the Bearded Dragon. Also present are the Chelonians, more familiar to most as the tortoises and terrapins, these alone adding another 257 species to our treatment challenges. Common members of these would be the Spur Thighed Tortoise and the Red Eared Terrapin. With the snakes we add around 2,400 more species, so you can see that we have a vast variety overall, and hence why we describe them as challenging and fascinating.
The most important features of keeping reptiles are 1:
Do your background research on the environmental requirements, feeding, behavior and natural characteristics of your desired species.
2: 3:
Buy from a good source. We can help advise you on this. Invest in the correct equipment for keeping your chosen pet. For most this will be:
an escape-p proof vivarium or enclosure variable heat source and basking lamp correct spectrum ultra-vviolet light temperature and humidity monitor access to good quality food supplies of the preferred type for that species
4:
Practise good basic hygiene, cleansing your hands thoroughly after handling your pet or its feeding containers, and after cleaning out its vivarium. All reptiles can carry salmonella bacteria but the risk of human transmission is minimal if these basic precautions are taken.
5:
Get your reptile insured. Most disease investigations involve laboratory tests, radiography and taking other samples. These tests, which are often essential for your pet's well-being, can be expensive.
6:
Discuss with us any aspects of the above. We will be glad to help.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Practice and helping you to an enjoyable and rewarding relationship with your new reptile.
84 costa life
Myramar animal Hospital. Av/Santa Amalia esq voluntariors 29640 Fuengirola. .
952588543 667433678 myramarhospital@hotmail.com
costa STUFF >>
costa life 85
>> costa STUFF
brought to you by Russell Vaughan
My My email worked at home? I use outlook express "My email worked before I left the UK but since I have been here it will not work!"
I hear this often as a computer technician and the solution is much simpler than you think. When you connect to the net back in your home country your Internet Company give you an email address. Their mail server is secure it recognises you when you send and receive email because you are connected to their internet service. When you connect to the Internet through a new company your email is handled slightly differently, because the email server can't see you connected it relies on you sending your user name and password for authentication. Outlook express needs its settings changed to enable it to send your logon details to the server. This allows the email server to recognise you.
Telly on the web
"TV anywhere anytime, Joost is a new way of watching TV on the internet. With Joost, you get all the things you love about TV, including a high-quality full-screen picture, hundreds of full-length shows and easy channelflipping." Bold statement from Joost, the soon to be launched, the telly-over-theinternet service set up by Skype founders Janus Friis and Niklas Zennstrom. Although the system is still being tweaked, beta testers of Joost can now invite other people to join in and later this month adverts from an impressive array of partners will start appearing, including Coca-Cola, HP, Intel, Nike, Sony Electronics, and Vauxhall. 1000's of Radio stations are already available on the Internet so it was only a matter of time before TV companies started to deliver TV shows online. If you have a Sky subscription there are dozens of TV shows from their schedule you can now watch on demand via a web browser. The BBC is also about to offer a similar service with programmes available online for 7 day after they broadcast. Joost is one of many telly-over-the internet-services that will act as a TV and allow you to watch live TV channels. It has signed deals with CBS and Viacom, as well as independent production companies and claims 150 TV channels of content. You'll need to download the application to watch content. More from joost.com 86 costa life
So follow these steps to make these changes.
Open outlook express, click the tools tab, then the accounts tab, next the mail tab, highlight and double click your default email account. In your mail server properties click the servers tab, go to the area "Outgoing mail server" and check the box "My server requires authentication" the settings box will then be activated and Outlook will now send your logon details to the server and allow you to send and receive email. The settings are similar for most email programs.
Find your family online.
Having caught the bug a few years ago I am still amazed how many people are using their home computer for charting their family trees. From personal experience I can tell you family History is a rewarding past time, finding out about your ancestors, their names, where they came from? And the type of lives they led are just some of the things you can find out. With a modern computer and some good family tree software it is possible for users of all ages to discover their heritage. TV programs like the BBC's "Who do you think you are?" encourage more of us to try to fill the gaps in our family trees. It's a bit like becoming a history detective. Like us, our ancestors left a paper trail of clues about their lives. The trail leads through many of the official documents we collect birth records, wedding certificates etc all contain clues about our families and most of these records are now available online. The internet is a gateway to 100's of this type of records and collections. You can buy birth, wedding and death certificates even wills are available from the UK and worldwide. You can check various census records, shipping records, newspaper archives, telephone books and more. Even when the records you want are not online or in a different language you can employ a researcher to help get those vital clues for you. Start off by writing down what you already know, talk to living relatives and get as much information as you can, confirm the answers and once confirmed add the information into your genealogy program. Once you have exhausted these leads you are ready to fill in the gaps using the Internet. Websites can be found by typing "genealogy websites" into your favourite search engine. If you are interested in getting started with your family history but need some guidance or are looking for a researcher in the UK get in touch. Russell Vaughan russell@onestopalhaurin.com Tel:665016374
>> costa STUFF
The Beauty Of Colour A
re we creatures who have evolved over the ages from nothing or perhaps from a molecule millions of years ago? Was there a Big Bang which began the process of all life? If so, isn't it wonderful that we don't all live in a grey colourless world where everything is a dull shade of grey? How amazing that the natural world around us is full of colour! Imagine a world where every person was a shade of grey, all plants were grey, the sky was grey, the mountains and the sea were grey. Now I know that for some of you your thoughts immediately turned to the country of your birth that you left for the sunny skies of Spain! Grey people leading grey lives under grey skies! But even then, there is colour to be found. What about the bluebells and the snowdrops among the trees, yellow daffodils signalling the advent of spring, different shades of green beginning to appear on trees as winter departs making way for spring. One of the most beautiful sights in Britain is the amazing variety of green found in the scenic countryside. The rich emerald green of the grass, the varying shades of leaves from very light yellowish green through bright green to dark olive on the wonderful variety of trees. Of course it doesn't take long to discover that plentiful rain contributes to all the green beauty of the country but the effect is marvellous. If everything simply evolved from swamp gas, why are we not living in a colourless dull world? Surely there must have been some creative thinking behind all that surrounds us. Have you ever watched the male peacock as he spreads his tail out behind him? A gorgeous splash of colour forming an intricate pattern as he parades up and down. Why not just a dull grey tail? And the butterfly? It lives for such a brief moment in time yet it shows us the most exquisite patterns made up of beautiful
colours during its short life as it flits among the flowers. What about people? Such a variety around the world. Dark skins ranging from golden brown to jet black, transparently pale white skins and so many other shades from pink to yellow. Why are we not all simply grey people? Have you ever looked closely at the markings of a zebra; not simply black and white but a shade of brown blending in as well? A tiger with its magnificent markings, the African leopard with its incredibly beautiful spots. Such beauty of colour in the world we live in! Surely the Hand of the Master Artist is behind everything! Surely He designed it all for His enjoyment and for the enjoyment of all mankind. Sadly, man has destroyed much of the natural beauty as he strives towards progress but we are still able to enjoy and appreciate so much of our world. In the early morning when the mountaintops seem blue in the distance, fluffy white clouds drift across a blue sky and a carpet of wild flowers is seen nearby, we need to stop and think about it all. Is there a Creator who loves us and wants to bless us? In a burst of exuberant praise, the psalmist David cried out, "O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is Your name in all the earthâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ś. When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You care for him? (Psalm 8) "For thus says the Lord, who created the heavens, who is God, who formed the earth and made it, who has established it, who did not create it in vain, who formed it to be inhabited; I am the Lord, and there is no other."(Isaiah 45:18) Annette Riggall
costa STUFF >>
An open letter of hope from.... We have all seen the distressing sight of an abandoned dog hopelessly running after a car, or starving cats huddled round the rubbish bins or strays weaving their way through traffic and felt helpless to do anything about it. Well, eleven years ago a group of people banded together to try to do something and registered charity P.A.D. (Proteccion de Animales Domesticos) was formed. It has gone from strength to strength with the support of its members, so that last year just over a thousand dogs and cats were successfully rehabilitated and homed to loving adopters.
A safe and content dog
But how have we managed to do this? I think our way of working is best illustrated by telling you the story of Bandit , a little black and white "Mijas Hound".He came to us after his owner died. Relatives did not want him and it was either death or P.A.D. Luckily we had space for him and he was castrated, microchipped, given his vaccinations and generally given overhauled by our vet. But we soon realised that Bandit was rather a difficult character. He loved people but other dogs had to toe the line or else!Three times he was homed out but had to be returned to us because he bonded so strongly with his new owners that he would not tolerate other dogs in the house. Almost three years passed and Bandit became a P.A.D. institution. Our dog walkers adored him but it seemed a suitable home could not be found. Then one wonderful day the Finnish organisation which works closely with us and homes so many dogs for us, rang and said the miracle had happened. There was a Finnish gentleman who had seen Bandit on our website, knew his history but who had fallen in love with him. He lives alone on an island where there are no other dogs, indeed there are no other people! He wanted a soul mate. It was the perfect solution and in March Bandit flew off to start his new life.
So these are the points I want to make about the way P.A.D. works. We help dogs (and cats in distress) We make sure they are in good health. We vaccinate, microchip and neuter all our animals.(P.A.D. pays for the neutering so it only costs 85 Euro to adopt a dog and 70 Euro to adopt a cat) Our dogs are walked every day and our cats groomed so they are used to human Contact. If things don't work out we always take back our animals however long you have had them. We never give up on a dog or cat and NEVER put a healthy animal to sleep. Please come down to the Shelter just outside Fuengirola and see for yourself the work we are doing. We are open every day of the week from 11a.m.-2p.m. and Monday to Fridays from 4p.m.-7p.m. Look us up on our website info@padcatsanddogs.org or ring me 952 48 60 84 and I can tell you more about the events we run to pay our way or perhaps persuade you to join us in helping make the Costa del Sol a happier place to live.
hs t i f f i r G a Barbar
President P.A.D.
costa life 89
All your local information for the costa del sol
>>
Useful info numbers, phrases and shopping tips that will aid your stay in Spain
92
>>
Indoor/outdoor activities
94
>>
Bars & Restaurants Sponsored by
98
BENALMADENA to MARBELLA
>>
Business Directory All your services and business needs in our comprehensive guide Sponsored by
Check it all out online at
103
>> costa GUIDE
Costa info is sponsored by
Useful numbers EMERGENCIES
>> LOCAL POLICE Antequera Arroyo de la Miel Benalmádena, Málaga, Marbella & Ronda Coin Estepona Fuengirola Nerja Torremolinos
952 708 104 952 708 104 092 952 453 267 952 800 243 952 589 324 952 521 545 952 381 422
>> NATIONAL POLICE National Police
TRANSPORT >> 080 952 804 483 952 461 046 952 774 349 952 383 939
>> MEDICAL SERVICES Emergencies
061
>> AMBULANCE Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Málaga & Marbella
902 505 061
>> STATE HOSPITALS 091
>> GUARDIA CIVIL Guardia Civil
>> FIRE BRIGADE
Benalmádena, Málaga & Mijas Estepona Fuengirola Marbella Torremolinos
062
Benalmádena Fuengirola Málaga Marbella Torremolinos
902 505 061 902 505 061 951 030 300 952 769 946 952 386 484
>> EMERGENCY LOCKSMITHS CostaLocks
>> BRITISH CONSULATE Calle Mauricio Moro, Pareta, 22nd Floor, MÁLAGA. Open 08:30 - 13:30 Enquiries 952 352 300
TOURIST INFORMATION Benalmádena Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 442 494 952 802 002 952 467 457 956 774 982 952 213 445 952 771 442 952 485 900 952 521 531 952 379 512
TOWN HALLS Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga
952 801 100 952 467 625 952 774 902 952 135 000
Marbella Mijas Nerja Torremolinos
952 476 013
952 761 100 952 485 900 952 520 404 952 379 400
TOUR OPERATORS Airtours Cosmos Direct Holidays First Choice JMC Thomson
971 900 100 952 386 012 952 382 035 952 384 827 952 384 470 952 812 132
AIRPORTS
Malaga Gibraltar
TAXIS
Benalmádena Estepona Fuengirola Gibraltar Málaga Marbella Mijas Costa
BUS STATIONS
Algeciras Alhaurin Benalmádena Coin Estepona Fuengirola La Linea Málaga Marbella San Pedro Torremolinos
952 048 844 956 773 026 952 441 545 952 802 900 952 471 000 956 770 027 952 327 950 952 774 488 952 476 593 956 654 304 952 490 709 952 443 563 952 450 366 952 802 954 952 475 066 952 172 396 953 350 061 952 764 400 952 781 396 952 380 965
TRAIN STATIONS
The Coastal Service stops at every major town between Fuengirola and Málaga from 06:45 and 22:30 from Málaga 902 240 202 Call
LOST/STOLEN CREDIT CARDS >> Abbey National
1619516500
Halifax
8457203099
Allied Irish
2890330099
Lloyds TSB
1702364274
American Express
2072229633
Mastercard
1383621166
Bank of Scotland
1383738866
Nat & Provincial
1274331522
Barclays Bank
1604230230
Nationwide
1793543888
Diners Club
1252513500
Natwest
1132778899
First Direct
1132345678
Yorkshire Bank
1132424800
Girobank
1514721110
Qué ?...
?
>> Some phrases in Spanish to help you get by: Hola Hola, diga Adiós ¿Cómo estás? ¿Cómo está? Muy bien, gracias Buenos días Buenas tardes Buenas noches ¿Cómo te va? ¿Cómo le va? ¿Qué tal? ¿Qué hay? ¿Qué pasa? ¿Cómo te llamas? ¿Cómo se llama usted? Me llamo Chris Mucho gusto. Encantado Bienvenido, bienvenida, bienvenidos, bienvenidas ¿Dónde está ... ? ¿Dónde están ... ? ¿Por dónde se va a ... ? or ¿Cómo puedo llegar a ... ? ¿Está lejos? ¿Está por aquí? Estoy perdido (perdida if you're female) ¿Dónde puedo coger un taxi (un autobús)? Escríbalo, por favor. Hágame el favor de hablar más despacio. No entiendo bien el español. ¿Hay alguien que hable inglés?
Hello, hi Hello (on the telephone) Goodbye How are you? Very well, thank you Good day, good morning Good afternoon Good night How's it going? What's happening? What's happening? What's your name? My name is Chris It's a pleasure to meet you Welcome Where is ... ? Where are ... ? How do you go to ... ? Is it far away? Is it near here? I'm lost. Where can I catch a taxi (a bus)? Write it down, please. Speak more slowly, please. I don't understand Spanish well. Is there anyone who speaks English?
>> QUESTIONS ¿Quién?
(keeehn)
Who?
¿Qué?
(keh)
What?
¿Dónde?
(dohn-deh)
Where?
¿Cuándo? (kooahn-doh) When? ¿Por qué? (pohr keh)
Why? How?
¿Cómo?
(koh-moh)
¿Cuánto?
(kooahn-toh) How much?
¿Cuál?
(kooahl)
Which?
>>Spanish Facts >> Telephone: to make an international call from Spain, dial 00 and then add the country code (UK 44; USA 1; Australia 61; Canada 1; Irish Republic 353; New Zealand 64) and the rest of the telephone number minus the first zero if there is one. To call Spain from abroad, the country code is 00 34. >> Business hours: the normal opening hours for shops are Monday to Saturday from
around 10am until about 1.30 / 2pm. After siesta they reopen from around 5.30pm until 8pm or 9pm. Large stores usually stay open all day. Most places are closed on Sundays. >> Banks: generally open from 9am to 2pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9am to midday or 1pm on Saturday. Hours may vary in summer.
costa GUIDE >> >>NUMBERS 12345678910 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 500 1000 -
uno dos tres cuatro cinco seis siete ocho nueve diez once doce trece catorce quince dieciséis diecisiete dieciocho diecinueve veinte treinta cuarenta cincuenta sesenta setenta ochenta noventa cien quinientos mil -
oo-noh dohs Trehs kooah-troh seen-koh sehees see-eh-teh oh-choh nooeh-bveh dee-ehs ohn-seh doh-seh treh-seh kah-tohr-seh keen-seh deeeh-see-sehees deeeh-see-seeeh-teh deeeh-seeoh-choh deeeh-see-nooeh-bveh bveheen-teh treheen-tah kooah-rehn-tah seen-kooehn-tah seh-sehn-tah seh-tehn-tah oh-chehn-tah noh-bvehn-tah seeehn kee-neeehn-tohs meel
... Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 330 million people speaking it. ...
>> costa GUIDE
Costa
Shopping
I
f you can drag yourself away from the beach long enough to venture out shopping, the Costa del Sol offers a wide selection of retail outlets catering for all tastes and budgets. From shopping malls such as La Cañada shopping centre in Marbella, La Colonia shopping centre in San Pedro de Alcantara and the new Myramar centre in Fuengirola to small boutiques and markets, there’s something for everyone. Along with those favourites from home, United Colors of Benetton and Dunnes Stores, Spain offers its own chain stores such as El Corte Ingles, Zara, Bershka and Oysho. El Corte Ingles is one of Spain’s leading department stores, featuring Spanish aswell as International designers. Zara and Bershka offer a wide selection of up to the-minute fashions for men and women at high street prices. Oysho, one of my favourites, sells the best sexy/sporty underwear and nightwear. Marbella and Puerto Banus are where you’ll get the chance to really flash your cash, featuring stores selling Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan, Gianni Versace and Gucci to name but a few as well as smaller boutiques selling lesser known designer wear. Most large stores open 10am till 9pm but many of the smaller boutiques will shut for siesta. Credit cards are accepted in all department stores and most shopping outlets. Proof of identity may be requested to complete a credit card transaction.
SIZE COMPARISONS >> Don’t let being unsure about sizes impare your shopping sprees...
Shoes
Men’s Wear
Men’s Shirts
Women’s Wear
SP
UK
SP
UK
SP
UK
SP
UK
37
4
44
34
35
14
36
8
38
5
46
36
36/37
14.5
38
10
39
6
48
38
38
15
40
12
40
7
50/52
40
39/40
15.5
42
14
41
8
54
42
41
16
44
16
42
9
56
44
42/43
16.5
46
18
43
10
58
46
44
17
48
20
MARKET PLACES
L
ooking for a bargain? Try one of the open-air markets that most towns on the Costa feature. Leather goods, linen and ceramics are particularly good value but there’s always a very varied selection of goods on sale. Many of the markets combine antiques and new goods aswell as local fresh produce. On a Saturday, Fuengirola hosts the biggest flea market on the Costa.
MONDAYS >> Marbella near the football stadium
TUESDAYS >>
Fuengirola (Feria Ground) Nerja weekly market (Calle Chaparil)
WEDNESDAY >>
Benalmadena Parque de la Paloma La Cala Estapona La Linea Rincon de la Victoria
THURSDAY >>
Torremolinos Velez Malaga San Pedro Torre del Mar
FRIDAY >>
Benalmadena Tivoli Gardens Las Chapas
SATURDAY >>
Fuengirola La Cala Puerta Banus near bullring
SUNDAY >>
Fuengirola near the mosque Malaga near the football stadium Sabinillas Estapona Sotogrande Nerja car boot sale
>> costa GUIDE
fun action & your A - Z guide on
INDOOR/OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
,
96 costalife
ADVENTURE TRIPS >>
Natural Ronda Ronda +34 952 873 496 In the Natural Park of Grazalema, feautures walking, trekking, horseriding, mountain biking, canoeing, archery, cycling routes and all adventure sports.
Fuengirola Jeep Safari Fuengirola +34 616 337 996 Paisajes Andaluces Malaga +34 952 060 656 / 659 266 333 Features Jeep safaris, Canyoning, Hiking, Walking and Mountain biking.
ANIMAL THEME PARKS >>
Selwo Marina Benalmádena +34 902 190 482 Enjoy all the fun of the deep at Selwo's fantastic Marina. Fun and interesting.
adventure
also catered for with tasty flame grilled meats and a delicious selection of salads.
CABLE CARS >>
Telecabina Benalmádena cable car +34 952 575 038 These cable cars leave from the Tivoli esplanade, crossing high over the motorway to the peak of the Carramolo mountain, from where one can view the entire Costa del Sol and the mountains of Africa across the Mediterranean on a clear day.
CASINOS >>
Casino Marbella Marbella +34 952 814 000 Open everyday from seven til late, Casino Marbella features a wide choice of games such as Bingo, Keno, Roulette, Black-Jack and different kinds of poker.
CINEMAS >>
Tivoli World Benalmádena +34 952 577 016 Tivoli world. Fun packed day or night out for the whole family at one of the coast's best theme parks and childrens fun fairs. open all year round. Crocodile Park Torremolinos +34 952 051 782 With over 300 crocodiles, and featuring the largest crocodile in Europe.
Gibraltar Dolphin Tours +34 956 680 741
SCUBA DIVING >>
Scuba Med Fuengirola Scuba +34 660 719 233 Scuba Tours Fuengirola +34 639 676174 Simply Diving Torremolinos +34 600 506 526
TENNIS CLUBS GUN & COUNTRY CLUBS >> >>
Marbella Gun & Country Marco Tennis Club Academy Monda Marbella +34 952 112 161 +34 952 83 17 39 Features clay pigeon shooting, archery, air rifle Tennis Club del Sol target shooting, quad bikes, Calahonda go-carts and jeep +34 952 939 595 safaris. El Madro HORSE RACING >> +34 952 778 580 The Hipodromo Fuengirola Lew Hoad Tennis +34 952 592 700 Club Racing fans can enjoy the Mijas horse races at Mijas Costa +34 952 474 858 from October to May on Sunday mornings from THEATRES >> 10.30h/From June to Salon Varietes September on Saturday from Theatre 23.00h. Racing lasts around Fuengirola approx. 5 hours. +34 952 474 542 Teatro Cervantes Málaga Horsin’ Around +34 952 224 109 Nerja +34 625 809 875 Salla Marbella Situated in the National Park Marbella in Nerja, Horsin’ Around +34 952 825 035 offers happy, healthy horses for all ages & abilities. Sala del Encuentro Lessons are also given. Marbella +34 952 825 035
Fuengirola Zoo Fuengirola +34 952 666 301 Open from 10.00h to midnight during July and August, giving a chance to see nocturnal animals by moonlight. Otherwise open from 10.00h to sunset.
QUAD & BIKE RENTAL >> Quad Rental Fuengirola +34 687 727 074
BOAT TRIPS >>
Dawn Approach Fishing/Boat Trips Fuengirola +34 952 668 052 Based in the port of Fuengirola, Dawn Approach allows you to search for dolphins or simply relax and enjoy the view. A wonderful Sunset Cruise & BBQ is
Dolphin Safari Gibraltar +34 956 690 702 Dolphin Safari Spain specialise in dolphin trips in the Bay of Algeciras, to suit all age groups and tastes. They guarantee dolphins on every trip and cater for fun and educational trips alike.
HORSE RIDING >>
Selwo Adventure Park Estepona +34 952 792 150 At Selwo Adventure Park you’ll witness the wildest animals closer than ever, such as lions, Bengal tigers, elephants, giraffes and rhinoceroses.
Aqua Vista Fuengirola +34 952 666 601 Boat trip with submarine vision and dolphin trip.
DOLPHIN TOURS >>
Yelmo Cineplex Cinema 20 Ultramodern cinema screens, With a 20 screen cimema (showing some English films in English everyday), Times, 15.00h - Last session at 1am Malaga Highway E15
WATERPARKS >>
Parque Aquatico
Mijas Rentaquad Fuengirola Fuengirola +34 952 460 404 +34 676 771 120 friendly Rentaquad tours will take Family you over the breathtaking waterpark at the views from the mountain heart of the Costa tops down to the del Sol. Open May Mediterranean coast of the t h r o u g h September. The Costa del Sol. park offers everything for a full BCT Torremolinos Quad day of sun and Rental exciting water Torremolinos adventures. Great +34 676 299 155 value.
Whats on!!! Age Care Association Friday 29th June Rock and Roll Dinner Age Care Association are holding a fund-raising Rock and Roll Dinner Dance at The Tamisa Golf Hotel, Mijas Golf on Friday 29 June. Tickets are 40 euros each and are available by either telephoning Don or Leslie on 635407255 or by attending The Manila Bar, Los Boliches on Wednesdays between 10am and 12pm and asking for Maurice. "HELP DESKS are available Tuesday and Thursday at Lux Mundi, Calle Nueva 3, Fuengirola from 10am to 12pm and Wednesdays at The Manila Bar, Los Boliches from 10am to 12pm. Also available is a free blood pressure test by our nurse Sandra on the first Thursday of every month at Lux Mundi between 11am and 12pm and the last Wednesday of every month from 11am to 12pm at The Manila Bar. Our Helpline Number is: 691761088." info@ladiesgolfgetaways.com or call Ali on 651 751 820, Elaine on 654 615 439 Riviera Gallery 8th June 7pm Preview of ¨Marine Art¨ Special Exhibition 29th June Preview night. The Rivera Academy Summer Exhibition. Fuengirola tel 952 593 792 Cudeca 1st - 17th June 07 Sunflower Campaign Each year Cudeca Cancer Care Hospice celebrates its annual 'Sunflower Campaign' during the month of June, offering sunflowers, the international emblem of the Cancer Hospice movement, in exchange for donations for their "special kind of caring" which is given without cost to patients suffering from terminal cancer. 8th June - Auction of original paintings from the Cudeca 2007 Calendar The Cancer Care Hospice will be holding an auction at the Gallery Van Gestel in Marbella's beautiful Orange Square on 8 June at 6pm. www.aia-ggroup.net, www.my-rrasgos.com
costa GUIDE >> The RBS International England Legends Charity Match In Aid Of Research Into Childhood Cancer England's Coming to Gibraltar! After the success of last year's Liverpool Legends Charity Match also held at the Victoria Stadium in Gibraltar, Santos Productions together with organisers Dennis Santos and Chiqui Fava have decided to do it again. This year the event will be even bigger and better. After setting up a great relationship with Alan Kennedy they approached him again this year and have secured a group of players from the England Selection including Peter Beardsley, Paul Merson, Viv Anderson and Matt Le Tissier. This is a very exciting prospect for all those involved. Once again they will play against 'Rock XI' a selection of veteran local players. The aim of this event is to raise awareness and as much money as possible for local charity RICC (Research Into Childhood Cancer). Last year they managed to raise a total of £29,500 and are aiming to surpass that this year. After the immense success of last year's event the organisers have once again secured RBS International as main sponsors of this event. Every player will once again be sponsored by various local companies. The official Line-Ups and Kits will be released at a later date. Everyone involved in this project is fired up and eager for the day to arrive. The RBS International England Legends Match in aid of RICC will take place on Monday 11th June 2007 at The Victoria Stadium. Kick Off will be at 19:15 and Tickets are just £10. Tickets will be available from Tuesday 29th May 2007 and can be obtained from Sacarello's Newsagents in Main Street and The Little Rock Café, Gibraltar or contact Santos Productions on Tel: (00 350) 58008448. Tickets were totally sold out last year so make sure you purchase yours fast to avoid disappointment.
16th June - Bollywood Meal in Gaucín Held at Jo and Barry's House in Gaucín on 16th June from 8pm. An array of exciting authentic Indian dishes will be served along with a promised night of entertainment and a post dinner disco for those party goers. Tickets being sold at 20 Euros per person and proceeds to go to Cudeca. 24 - 29th June - Feria de San Juan Cudeca will have their very own caseta within the Feria of San Juan held in the Recinto ferial La Paloma in Arroyo de la Miel . 29th June - Bebo Valdés Concert Held at the Cervantes theatre in Málaga on the 29th June at 9pm. The Cuban pianist resides part of the year in Benalmadena and after visiting the Hospice decided what better way to support such a good cause than to perform in concert. All proceeds to go to Cudeca. Tickets available online at www.unicaja.es or www.generaltickets.com Prices range from €15 to €40. 6th July - Cudeca Gala Charity Dinner An evening of fine dining and entertainment held at the beautiful Limonar40 restaurant in Málaga (Palacio de Lira, paseo del limonar nº10 Tickets are sold per table at 100 euros per person (10 persons to each table). A raffle will be organised and prizes include a trip to Paris for 2 people. For further information on these events, please contact Laura on Tel: 952 56 49 10 or e-mail: pr@cudeca.org The Ark Kids Club We would like to let you know about the kids club which is held on Satrurdays at The Ark Christian Fellowship, Las Rampas, Fuengirola. It runs from 11am until 1pm and the kids can come and join in with arts and crafts, games and dancing as well as being entertained with stories, drama and puppets shows. As well as running this club on a Saturday we will also be running it in the summer break. We will be open on the following dates from 10am until 1pm - 4th, 5th and 6th Jul 10th , 11th and 12th July. 28th, 29th and 30th August 4th, 5th and 6th September To register and for any more information about this please do not hesitate to contact Adrianne on 952934565 or call in to The Ark Christian Fellowship at Las Rampas.
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The Music Factory is predominatly a music, dance & drama academy for adults as well as kids based on the
Want to play in a band, learn new things and make new friends? Come to our band workshops throughout July
Camino de Coin, Mijas Costa
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The Music Factory has it all... All welcome Call 952 582 077 www.themusicfactory.biz
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ACTIVITIES The Activities available include Clay Pigeon Shooting, Archery, Quad Biking, Air Pistols, Horse Riding and you don’t have to have a go at all the activities in one day, you can carry on where you left off the next day.
CLUB RESTAURANT
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Set in 140 acres of stunning countryside in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves, Marbella Gun and Country Club boasts the finest facilities in Europe
The Restaurant offers an innovative menu, featuring fresh fish, the finest quality meats, a good selection of vegetarian options and, if a full meal isn’t to your fancy, there is also a wide choice of light meals and snacks to be enjoyed in the bar area or out on the poolside terrace. The first of seven new superbly appointed Scandinavian log cabins is now ready for viewing. This first phase will be located close to the pool, patio, restaurant and boasts some of the finest views the club has to offer. Anyone interested in a viewing please contact the club to make an appointment. Available from September. Ideal for short breaks, long weekends etc. We are also the perfect venue for your private function, weddings, birthdays, celebrations and corporate events. We can arrange live music, buffets, set menus and barbecues. Opening Hours From 10am (open 7 days per week) Please call for further details Marbella Gun and Country Club, Monda, Málaga, Spain Tel:952 112161 Mob: 627 963 747 Fax: 952 112162
Email : marbellagun@yahoo.co.uk www.marbellagunandcountryclub.com
BARS
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BENALMADENA to MARBELLA
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www.barsinspain.com - (0034) 952 499 400
>> costa BUSINESS DIRECTORY >>
Costa del Sol Business Directory
Welcome to the Costa del Sol Business Directory, your comprehensive source for all your business needs on the Costa del Sol...
AIR CONDITIONING >>
BATHROOMS & KITCHENS >>
ENVIROCARE Cooling, heating & dehumidifying. Quality installations. Service contracts available. Envirocare SL 952 663 141
TIM HART-W WOODS Kitchens & bedrooms. Free planning and design service, free quotations without obligation. Deal with the professionals. Camino Viejo de Coin, FUENGIROLA, call 952 667 370 or Local 31/32 Dona Lola CALAHONDA, (N340 KM 197 beach side) Call 952 935 159. info@thwkb.com
VILLASLOMAS AIR-C CONDITIONING All aspects of air-conditioing. Full installations/Pre-installations. Repairs and servicing. 952 453 917/652 558 454
ANIMALS & PETS >> MYRAMAR ANIMAL HOSPITAL Are you looking for the best animal care for your pet? For an appointment call 952 588 543 or emergency number call 667 433 678. www.myramarhospital.com
BRITISH FOOD SUPPLIERS >> COSTALESS For all your favourite groceries, Fresh, frozen, chilled and dry. Brands include Heinz, Birds Eye, Tetley, Youngs, Muller, Princes and Many More! Three great stores at Arroyo de la Miel, Centro Comercial Benavista and Calahonda. FREEZERMOR Your favourite British chilled and frozen foods now available in
Alhaurin el Grande. Plus a wide selections of mugs, dinner services, Kitchen utensils, tin openers, baking trays, potato peelers, acrylic glasses, dishes, gift ideas and much, much MORâ&#x20AC;Ś.! Tel 677838830 Find us on: Avenida Blas Infante
CARTRIDGES (PRINTER) >> CARTRIDGE CONNECTION Refilling and remanufacturing of inkjet and laser cartridges. Refill while you wait. Inkjet & Photo paper. 952 494 360
COURIER & MAIL SERVICES >> OFFEX COURIER OFFEX COURIER,EASIMAIL, need a parcel collected in the UK? OFFEX offer a choice of services to suit your individual requirements. First and second class mail, royal mail parcel service, recorded delivery, courier and freight service, UK courier and parcel service and Worldwide courier.
TEL: (0034) 952577816 FAX: (0034) 952561298 Email: mail@offexspain.com
DENTISTS & DOCTORS >> ARCO IDEAL D.r. Joachim Stickel, Orthodontist, 25 years experience.Choice of systems for that perfect smile. Individual assessments, personally optimised treatments, beautifully aligned teeth in the quickest time. Ceramic brackets, Invisalign and lingual brackets. First consultation free, easy payment plans available. Calle Ramon Gomez de la Serna, 22, Edificio King Edward(behind the needle on the golden mile) Oficina 409, 29600 Marbella. 952 866 571 fax 952 776 690 e-m mail: joachim.stickel@web.de CLINICA EUROPA DENTAL D.r. Kirstin Brorson and D.r. Lars
www.barsinspain.com - (0034) 952 499 400
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The Evangelical Christian Fellowship An oasis where the Word of God is preached and the love of God is shared
We welcome you to visit us and meet new friends! Sundays at 4.30pm Ermita San Miguel, Calahonda
www.ecfmijas.com tel: (0034) 952 467 394 or e-mail: fef@tele1.org Pastors Peter and Annette Riggall Brorson. Established family dental practice. All the latest equipment and technology. All types of dental work carried out. Swedish dentists speaking English, Spanish, German and Scandinavian. open Monday to Friday, 10-8pm. Avda Gerald Brenan 37-2D, Alhaurin el Grande. Above Solbank, 2ND Floor next to Manzanares. 952 499 366 or 654 454 860 CLINICA SANDALF Mr Alf Neuhaus Orthopedic Surgeon and Sandra Vincenti Chartered Physiotherapist. Treatment of arthritis and rheumatism. Joint replacements - Hip, Knee, Ankle, Shoulder, Diagnostic Ultrasound, Back and neck problems, Keyhole surgery, Hand and foot surgery and rehabilitation. 24hr Emergency service 656 313 293. Calle Pepa Guerra Valdenebros, 29631, Benalmadena 952 577 766 MARBELLA CLINIC World famous clinic for Plastic and aesthetic surgery, Breast augmentation, cosmetic surgery, Orthodontic treatment, lipo suction, sports traumatology, laser therapy. Calle Gladiolas, Urb Royal Garden, Marbella. 952 816 981 www.marbellaclinic.es
EXHIBITION & PUBLICITY MATERIAL >> costalife 104
EXPOSOLUCIONES SL Pop Ups, Roll Ups, Banners, Brochure holders, A boards, Expoline display system for windows and walls. Large format printing, Vehicle sign writing. CALL 952 963 597 www.exposoluciones.com
HAIR AND BEAUTY >> THE RETREAT HEALTH AND BEAUTY Decleor facial and body treatments, massage, hot stone therapy, St Tropex tanning and waxing, Jessica manicures and pedicures, reflexology, Reiki and Indian head massage. Call Hannah 952 595 846 or 666 143 901
HEATING >> ENVIROCARE Gas Fires and central heating. Quality installations. Envirocare SL 952 663 141
INSURANCE >> SANTALUCIA INSURANCE Specialists in Home, Business & Offices, Communties, Public Liability, Life, Funeral and Pet insurance For further information on coverage and a no obligation quote on any of Santalucia policies call 902 886 079
www.barsinspain.com - (0034) 952 499 400
>> costa BUSINESS DIRECTORY >>
Monday to Friday 10am to 6pm
PETS SERVICES >> POSH-P PETS-S SPAIN incorporating “Hair off the dog II” The English canine grooming salon & canine beautician training centre, pedigree pooches to Heinz 57’s. Also pet relocation specialists by land, small doggie hotel, English pet feed stockist & on-line designer pet wear. Call Rachel on 952 597 035 or 676 249 782 www.poshpets-sspain.com & click on links you require or email hairoffthedog2004@yahoo.co.uk WORLD SERVICES Kennels and Cattery, Worldwide pet travel, Vet service, Grooming parlour, Collection and delivery, Pet homecare. 902 301 002 www.vi-p pet.com
POOL ACCESSORIES & MAINTENANCE >>
sional pool maintenance, new pool construction, renovations and repairs, quality pool furniture, great water games, inflatable rafts and islands, part packs, solar showers and more. Call 952 591 053
POOL HEATING PUMPS >> ENVIROCARE Swim all year round. Very low running costs. Envirocare SL 952 663 141
TRANSPORT, REMOVALS & STORAGE >> WARM HORIZONS Ltd Local, National, European and international removals, storage and distribution. No job to big or to small Call (00 34) 952 499 337 or (00 34) 628 003 358 or email warmhorizonsltd@msn.com
GREEN DRAGON pool maintenance, chlorine free systems, repairs and problem solving, garden maintenance service also available. Call Ian on 650 200 040 or 952 455 282 SPLASH SWIMMING POOLS S.profes-
www.barsinspain.com - (0034) 952 499 400
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