Luxury Villa at a Great Price
€ 180,000 €
AEG517 - Great Investment Opportunity
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ADT537 - Alhaurín de la Torre
€€390,000
This lovely villa has a separate guesthouse & is set in 1,500m2 mature gardens. It is 170m2 built with 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms. The views from the swimming pool & terraces are fantastic - over countryside & towards the mountains. There is a large garage, gated drive, fitted aircon & heating plus full services connected incl: town water, mains electricity & satellite TV. Like this? Then checkout AEG269 on our website
€€572,000
ALA510 - Hi-Spec Country House
This striking country villa has been designed & built to the highest possible standards. There are 3 large bedrooms & 3 bathrooms plus impressive views & 34,000m2 of land. Architect design with character & practicality such as automated heating/aircon, solar heated water, damp proofing...
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Bargain Large Home & Guest Accommodation
CNN390 - Phenomenal 3 Storey Villa
€ € 595,000
There is a home, self contained apartment & large garage plus features & benefits galore: Pool, amazing landscaped gardens, alarm, CCTV, fish pond, fruit trees, central heating, full services & much more!
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ADT458 - Alhaurín de la Torre ALA432 - Exclusive Development
€€220,000
Choose from 2 to 4 beds apartments that are part of a converted mill. The build quality is exceptional as are the views to El Chorro. Each home has dedicated parking plus private roof terrace & shares the communal pool. Some wonderful Andalucian features have been incorporated. Mortgages available.
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€€379,500
You really get a lot for your money with this villa and guest accommodation - 6 beds in the main home & 2 in the guesthouse. The pool is fenced & the views are wonderful from here & the top terrace. Access is great as it is close to all amenities plus less than 10 minutes drive to the airport. Could make a good business. Viewing is a must. Like this? Then checkout ADT141 on our website
contents
Lorraine
Hello and welcome... To issue 33 of Costa Life I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Looking back over this last year we’ve had our ups and downs like many of you out there. We are hoping that 2008 is a more prosperous year. We are looking forward to the continuing growth of the Magazine and the internet guide which you can check out on www.guidetothecosta.com November was a very sad month for us here in the office as one of our longest serving members of the team left for pastures new. Lorraine was with us for three years and she will be greatly missed, especially her singing and chattering around the office.(Lorraine, it’s very quiet here now!) We wish her every success in the future. That’s it for another year, where’s it gone? Have a great Christmas, see you in January.
costa culture
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costa stuff
Cover story
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Irregularities & Illegalities by Mike Wilkinson
costa getaways
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Cover story A Taste of Honey by Harvey Mann
costa companies
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66 68 70 72 74 76
Local Business Spotlight
costa lifestyle
20 22 23 24 26 28 32
Mens Stuff Burnout Take some serious time off What Men Want
What Women Want
i s s u homes e costa 44
33 60
Spiritual Thought Disappointed and Disillusioned Cross Country Horse Race You thought Raid was a fly spray Showbiz Whispers / Music Review
Cover story Toad in the Hole by Peter Harrison Costa Cuisine Strange But True Challenge Animal Health Bytes and Pieces
Hannah’s Beauty Tips Maximise your Moisturisation
guide to the costa
Helen Johnson Feeling Positive keeps you Healthy
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Bars and Restaurants
Health article Be the Star of the Party
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Editor Sharon Holdsworth Consulting Editor Harvey Mann Design and Production David Philliskirk Advertising Sales Ronan Holdsworth Accounts and Administration Lorraine Bonora IT Advisor Dave Howard of Alphashare Web Master Mike Wilkinson Contributors Bars In Spain Linda Christie Peter Harrison Hannah Henley Helen Johnson Paula Monaghan Jan Morley Dr J.S. Nicolas Cruella Parsons Dr. Potdevin Annette Riggall Russell Vaughn Videonet Mike Wilkinson Company Director Ronan Holdsworth Partner Barrie Shearman Images courtesy of Costa del Sol Tourist Board JumpFotoArt.com 951 272 693 PR Shots
Health news Male Cancers
Deposito Legal MA-0054-2004
Interiors The ‘How To’ Guide to Eclectic Living
Costa business advice Is Running a Business in Spain right for you
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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 GROUP
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952 492 250 info@costalifemagazine.com
T Written By:
Mike Wilkinson mike@costalifemagazine.com
here were clouds in my coffee today. For some reason I awoke early and so I was the first into the kitchen to make a coffee this morning. As I entered the kitchen I was confronted with something I can only describe as a scene from the classic cult film Withnail and I. (You know the scene I mean, where Withnail goes into the kitchen to do the washing up but halts abruptly at the door to exclaim, ‘‘The entire sink’s gone rotten! I don’t know what’s in there!’’ after he sees all the filthy washing-up piled up high in the sink.) It seems to me that maybe one of our newly-arrived house-sharing tenants hasn’t shared a house before and is therefore unaware of a certain unwritten basic social motto: ‘‘Please leave it as you found it (if not a bit cleaner).’’
Well, I left it as I found it (with the exception of a rather abruptly-worded message indelibly marked on the kitchen cupboard door hypothesizing on the offender’s just position on the evolutionary scale) and chose instead to visit a local café for a coffee. Whilst I was sipping on a far superior coffee than I could have made at home anyway, and silently cussing the unknown perpetrator of mi casa’s kitchen chaos, I started to read an article in the newspaper about hundreds of Brits who have bought new properties on the Costa, only to be prevented from legally moving into them due to some certificate from the developer enabling water and electricity to be connected not being forthcoming. So they’ve taken them to court but the developer says that it’s the town hall’s fault, not theirs, because the town hall should have issued it automatically, so they’ve taken the town hall to court but the town hall says that the properties involved are illegal because they’re built on land protected from development
costaCULTURE >>
houses or flats have been built each year - a staggeringly huge number compared to other European countries. Many of them have been hotels and holiday apartments built illegally with the connivance of corrupt city officials who take a back-hander from the developer to get planning permission for them, (even though they know the land is a nature reserve protected from developers, which is how come they bought it so cheap in the first place). And they then bribe a town councillor to rubber stamp the plans, sometimes even to the extent of reclassifying the land. So what started off as a totally separate police investigation into money laundering and drug trafficking ended up with half of the Marbella city council in jail. The investigation is still going on and the profits reaped by participators in this massive network of corruption are expected to be millions and millions of euros. And there’s talk of it being just the tip of the iceberg.
which is why they haven’t issued the certificate and are, in fact, considering demolishing them. Meanwhile, the developers are suing the buyers for reneging on their contractual commitments, and the buyers are counter-suing the developers, claiming that it is they who have broken their contractual obligations by not providing the certificate - and we’re talking about hundreds of thousands of euros of hundreds of individual’s life-savings being lost here! And I’m moaning about a few dirty pots? How can anyone get themselves into that kind of position anyway, putting up their life’s savings without even the most basic of checks? So I thought that it might make for an interesting article, to find out how it all came about, and to discover who really is to blame for these pitiable people’s plights. After a bit of research, it wasn’t long before I was reading phrases like ‘‘the largest corruption racket discovered in the Spanish judicial system in 25 years’’ and ‘‘a multi-million euro international money-laundering scandal’’ and ‘‘foreign mafia gangs have a hold on Spain’’, and ‘‘impounded goods included 275 works of art by artists of immense prestige, 103 thoroughbred racehorses, 5 kilos of jewelry and a helicopter’’ That said, in the interests of self-preservation, I’ve decided that this month I’ll write about ‘‘Oranges’’ instead. There are scores of different kinds of oranges throughout Andalucía, many of which can be found in the neglected orange groves of properties recently bought by British homeowners at the beginning of their ‘‘dreamof-a-new-beginning-in-Spain’’ dream - a dream that quickly turned into a nightmarish ordeal when they discovered that the beautiful new villas and apartments that they’d just bought had been built illegally and were earmarked to be demolished by the town council. How could this be? It doesn’t happen in Britain, does it? In Britain, we would still employ a solicitor to do Land Registry searches and such like, even though it’s usually safe to assume that the building would have had full planning permission originally granted anyway. Here in Spain, though, you can’t afford to make the same assumptions, especially when you realise that in Spain you buy a property under the doctrine of caveat emptor; which is basically solicitors’ verbally-camouflaged Latin-jargon meaning ‘‘Let the buyer beware’’. And beware you should. The onus is on you to check out anything the agent or vendor tells you - and if it turns out to be an outlandish pack of lies that ends up costing you everything you own, well sorry mate, but the law’s not here to protect the gullible. Didn’t you know you should use a notario to do your searches, not an abogado? Never mind, eh? There are politicians with paintings to purchase. So what’s going on? Who are buying all the paintings and the helicopters? Well, it’s not exactly a secret anymore that Spain has a small issue of construction corruption in certain corridors of power. For the last fifteen years, an average of 800,000
Whilst Spain’s ruling elite has benefited from the construction boom and accrued massive profits, the man on the street is falling into debt and struggling to keep up with the cost of living. And Mr and Mrs Brit Homeowner are still waiting on their ‘‘Licencia de Primera Ocupción’’ or License of First Occupation. This is issued by the town hall after the new building has been checked to make sure that it is of the same spec as the original plans, for example, that there are only five floors as stated, not six as so often is the case. The license verifies that the building is located in a proper planning zone and it meets basic health and safety conditions, and to have one means that your new home has ‘‘been born into the legal world’’ so to speak. It is also required by the amenities companies to connect gas, water and electricity supplies. In the past, even if the license wasn’t immediately forthcoming due to some irregularity or other, after three or four years it would usually be granted retrospectively. But not now. Not since all these construction irregularities and illegalities have come to light. And, as much as I kind of feel for these poor lambs to the slaughter, in the same heartbeat I think to myself ‘‘You won’t let that happen to you again, will you - even if you could?’’ The thing is that, even though it’s apparently just the tip of the iceberg in Spain, Spain is just the tip of the iceberg. There are a lot of people that crave power, going well beyond governments. There are some serious vultures and magpies out there. I personally would like the power to be able to go into a clean kitchen once in a while and leave all these irregularities behind before they become acts of illegality with an unwashed kitchen knife. Especially this close to Christmas.
BENALMADENA Gapp Properties Rentals and Sales
INMOBILIARIA ARROYO DE LA MIEL
Different name, Same people SGM Sales and Rentals SGM Based on the Costa del Sol, are able to help you find your dream home. We will act solely in your best interest as if the property was our own, giving you peace of mind and ensuring a smooth and stress free purchase or sale.
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SGM
STUDIO in MINERVA, 4th floor, east facing, good views, fully equipped & furnished, communal pool, gardens, 24hrs reception. Guaranteed rental income scheme available. ONLY 99.000 €€ (apprx £68,000) ref: csp557
REDUCED FOR QUICK SALE !!!! 1 BED APT in GEMINI, 2nd floor, very good condition, totally renovated, new floors, new kitchen and bathroom, west facing terrace with afternoon sun. Very low community fees. Centrally located close to all amenities. ONLY 131.000 € € (apprx £90,000) ref: csp533 BENAL BEACH, STUDIO, 7th floor, fantastic views to pools and La Paloma park, nicely furnished, incredible rental potential. 5 communal pools with slides, gardens, bar, restaurant, 1 minute walk to the beach. BARGAIN AT 126.000 € € (apprx £87,000) ref: csp556 1 BED APT IN JUPITER, 5th floor, 51m2, open plan kitchen, lounge, bathroom, west facing terrace with afternoon sun and fabulous sea views, furnished and fully equipped. Communal pool, gardens and parking. GOOD VALUE 157.000 €€ (apprx £ 108,000) ref: csp558 2 BED, 1 BATH, EDF BONANZA, centrally located in Benalmadena, close to all amenities, kitchen and bathroom have been renovated, west facing with views over communal pool and gardens, 2nd floor, BARGAIN AT 165.000 € € (apprx £112,000) ref: csp486 3 BEDS/1 BATH APT, Benalmar Social, 2 min walk to Arroyo centre, 1st floor, 90m2, kitchen, separate utility room, longe, terrace, storage room, furnished and fully equipped. Communal pool, gardens and parking. GOOD VALUE 217.000 €€ (apprx £ 149,000) ref: csp542
6 costa life
Local 9, Edificio Jupiter, Arroyo de la Miel, 29631
Extensive selection of rentals and re sales We manage over 60 holiday apartments in Jupiter, Minerva and Benal beach We also have a selection of long term properties, and if we haven’t got what you want we will find if for you. 7 years experience Enviable reputation for providing a quality service, over 100 long term clients can’t be wrong. Call 952
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LOCAL / OFFICE with large window display. Centrally located in Arroyo de la Miel. Good passing trade, low monthly rent. Furnished and ready for use. LEASEHOLD 22.000 € € (apprx £15,000) ref: B515 RESTAURANT in the heart of Benalmadena Costa, amongst many apt blocks. Recently refurbished. Very large kitchen. Seating for 90 +. Well established. Option to buy freehold as well. LEASEHOLD 59.500 € € (apprx £41,000) ref: B518 CAFÉ´BAR, Benalmadena Costa, ideal starter bar for 1 person, serving drinks + Light snacks, skating approx 30 people inside + 16 outside. LEASEHOLD 48.000 € € (apprx £33,000) ref: B510
BENALMADENA Specialist Property Management and Rentals company. We cover from Benalmadena to Sotogrande. Professional property management including: Weekly Inspections Maintenance Issues Cleaning & Laundry Service Fiscal Affairs
We take the hassle out of owning a property in Spain A one stop shop for all your property needs. Specialists in long term rentals High success rate at renting properties out long term. Check out our long term web site on www.spmrentals.net We also cater for owners who wish to do holiday rentals in their properties. Check out our holiday web site on www.spmrentals.eu.com
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Plaza de Espana, Arroyo de la Miel
Anne-Marie & Terry welcome you Full Menu, Fresh Food prepared daily Excellent Sunday Roast Wonderful relaxed atmosphere and warm welcome guaranteed Open 10.30 - midnight Closed thurs all day and sat evening call
679 135 183
‘‘Walk in a stranger leave as a friend’’ costa life 7
>> costaGETAWAYS
Written By:
Harvey Mann
ña / Fountain Square Plaza Españ
T
he noise of chatter crashed over me like a huge wall of water; it sloshed like a tidal wave around the little cafés and bars of Plaza España, also known as Fountain Square, then ebbed away like the whispering gallery in St Paul’s Cathedral in London.
I had entered the square between old pillars that bear an iron shield which reads Portal de San Carlos and bears the name Felix Solesio, said to be the founder of Arroyo de la Miel. Under his family crest the inscription says, ‘‘A neoclassic archway built of out of sandstone and tufa (a soft type of sandstone) which carries the family coat of arms and the date 1791 written on the lintel. This is, beyond any doubt, the most relevant and representative architectural element that remains in any construction made by Felix Solesio in Arroyo de la Miel.’’ So who was this man Felix Solesio? Well history is not brimming with pages of in-depth information regarding Felix. What I can gather is that he arrived in Arroyo in 1784 from Genoa where he was born, and bought a farm, converting it into six paper mills. These produced both brown and white paper, to be used in playing cards made by card factories in
Macharaviaya, but Felix Solesio’s mills became bankrupt when the factories ceased production in 1806. What remained of the mills and the dwellings became the origin of Arroyo de la Miel’s town centre. These days Felix stands aloof from all the gossip and tittle-tattle on a plinth at the southern end of the square. Dressed very dandily in doublet, breeches, hose and a three-cornered hat, a plaque proclaims that ‘‘Felix Finarius Solesio Buraggi was a master paper maker and founder of Arroyo de la Miel.’’ (Arroyo is a stream and Miel is honey, so one suspects the translation means River of Honey or even Sweet Water.)
8 costa life
Felix Finarius Solesio Buraggi
Days and nights in the square are a riot of noise, eating and drinking. Some of the contestants taking part in the conversation are boasting about their trips home to have a new hip or knee. ‘‘Ow Moooch?’’ a Yorkshireman exclaims when one of his table companions tells of the cost of his operation. ‘‘Bloody quacks; must ‘ave villas oop in Pueblo.’’ Plaza España is normally just six minutes and thirty-three seconds’ walk from our home that overlooks the Avenida Mare Nostrum. From our top floor apartment we have a panoramic view down over Benalmádena Costa to the Mediterranean. Our relatively short 500-metre walk to Plaza España is sometimes stretched to half an hour as my wife often (not surprisingly) window-shops on the way. In the top left hand north west corner of the square is the restaurant and heladeria Otelli. Mike Schoenmaker is the owner with whom I often have an exchange of humorous banter. Mike and his glamorous girls serve a good line of food, coffee and ice cream, and also provides outside catering. Next to him is a Spanish Mike Schoenmaker owned restaurant with Pedro as mine host; a good Pizzeria called Victoria at top right hand side and at the bottom is a new bar and an Internet and telephone café.
The distinctive Casa de la Cultura is surrounded by fancy little gardens and a fountain. It has a charming Muslim style interior, and outside the immaculately trimmed umbrella style trees are always welcoming during the heat of the day. Close by to the railway station is the recently built pretty little church. I suppose if Arroyo has become famous for one thing it would be Tivoli World amusement park, built and finished in 1973. Opposite the Tivoli entrance is the cable car that takes you to giddy heights, 769-metres up to Casa de la Cultura and fountain the summit of Mount Calamorro that dominates Arroyo's skyline and provides breathtaking views. Arroyo also has the first Palliative care hospital founded by Joan Hunt OBE, which is financed by charities and the numerous Cudeca shops in Andalucia. At the southern end of Arroyo that divides it from Benalmádena Costa is the wonderful Parque de la Paloma. With a lake, playgrounds for children and cafés, as well as having a variety of plants and trees it has a magnificent tropical garden with a large selection of tropical plants. The park also boasts a large selection of birds and wildlife running freely. North of the park is the excellent Library, and to the south is Selwo Marina, a theme park with dolphins, penguins, and sealions. Arroyo de la Miel was originally a separate village, just about one kilometre back from Benalmádena Costa, and sandwiched between was the original village, the Pueblo. Approximately 200m above sea level, the Pueblo is a charming collection of dazzling white painted typical Andalucian houses, gift shops and charming little plaza, villas with stunning views to the coast, along with a nice array of restaurants. Close by is the imposing sight of the Buddhist Stupa that stands 33 metres tall, and is said to be the largest in the western world. This construction was finished in 2003. For the many that visit it is a haven of tranquillity away from the heat and noise of the coast road and the beaches. The same can be said of the Hindu Temple on the south side of the Parque de la Paloma.
Painting of Plaza España Plaza España, or Fountain Square, is so called because it once contained a splendid gurgling fountain with a nice spray that carried on a breeze, cooling hot-under-the-collar locals and overheated pigeons. However the fountain disappeared around five years ago. There have been many rumours regarding the mystery of the fountain’s removal: some say that it was broken, others say that it encouraged mosquitoes. Some residents complained that visitors washed their feet and clothing in it. All conjecture and nothing of substance. The only image left now of the square with a fountain appears in a painting that hangs in the doorway of the Otelli restaurant, showing how the square looked in all its glory. Arroyo now is a thriving busy little town. I like the little pavement cafés close to the railway station that can zip you in 30 minutes to the airport or Malaga or, if you are going the other way, to Fuengirola. (The coming year should see this line extended to Marbella.) Arroyo’s little back streets have tiny quaint patios, some just wide enough for two people to pass. I occasionally hear clucks from chickens as I walk. In the centre of the town, almost opposite the Casa de la Cultura, is a building with high arched ceilings that houses numerous restaurants, and shops like an old fashioned Mall. The restaurants mostly specialise in meat. It is possible that this building was once one of the paper mills that were built by Felix Solesio in the late 18th century, and the first known Inn in Arroyo was opened in Calle Los Pozos around 1887.
Benalmádena’s historical story starts at the upper end of the Palaeolithic times, and evidence of remains have been found in the municipality’s caves at Cueva del Toro, Cueva de los Botijos and Cueva de la Zorrera. In the 7th and 8th centuries BC the Phoenicians arrived, giving rise to cultural and trading exchanges. The Romans followed and Benalmádena Costa has several recent excavations of Roman sites. The Muslims arrived in 711 in the country called ‘‘Spania’’ since the Byzantine occupation and these lived in Andalucia peacefully after negotiating pacts. The only force used in occupation was by Omar Ibn Hafsud who ruled Bobastro (Málaga) but he surrendered his ownership at the beginning of the 10th century. At this time Benalmádena was only a few little settlements and hamlets. Around the 11th century Benalmádena started to develop a social structure within a small walled town and a fortress. Two Almenara towers from the 15th century were built to protect t h e
>> One of the narrow back streets
>> costaGETAWAYS inhabitants of the coast from Barbary pirates, and their ruins can still be seen today. By the 13th century the Muslim farming community had organised successful farms by dividing areas into geometrical plots of municipal land. Around the middle of the 16th century Benalmádena had ten families with about 50 inhabitants and this group started to shape the trade between it and Mijas. One of the oldest families of the area was the Zurita Zambranas who acquired large plots of land in Arroyo. October 9th 1680 was a very black day for Banalmaina (its Arab name) when an earthquake struck destroying every single house and other structures, and this was followed by a huge tidal wave that destroyed boats and the remaining buildings that were still standing. One of the most famous sons of Benalmádena where he was born in 1197 was Ibn al-Baytar (the veterinarian's son) also called Diya al-Abu Mamad Abd Aliah Ibn Ahmed al Andalusi al Malaqui (the man from Málaga) al-Nabati (the Botanist) and he became one of the outstanding botanist and pharmacologists in the middle ages. With Arab culture and sciences so advanced during this time, Al-Bayter travelled extensively to capital cities of the Muslim Empire, becoming head botanist in Cairo, and then onto Damascus where he became the Vizier. His books on botany, zoology and mineralogy, and his book Mogni fi addwiya el Mofridat (a basic treatise on simple remedies) became a practical guide for doctors with 1400 examples of natural remedies (a sort of a herbal remedies guide). By the 13th century farming had become the main occupation for the Muslims; sugar cane brought by them from the east became a great source of income, like figs, grapevines and white mulberries used in the silk industry. The name Benalmádena derives from the Arabic word ‘‘Ibn al-Madena’’ meaning children of the mines, as iron and ochre were being mined at the time of the arrival of the Moors. The word Madena, is thought to been the name of a family or person who worked or owned the mines. The turn in fortune for Benalmádena Costa came in the 1960s when a plan was hatched to build a Marina and work started on November 12th 1972. Now with moorings for over 1,000 yachts and boats, it has been described as stunning for its looks and ambience. Certainly at the outset the plans were described by the sceptics as madness. Now it has proved that sceptic wrong, as everyone agrees that it was an innovative and grandiose plan. Maybe a little madness is what was needed to create something so beautiful. Since it was built the Benalmádena Marina has won several major awards including quite rightly the ‘‘Best Marina in the World’’. The complex has a great selection as you would expect of shops and restaurants and gives you an opportunity for a close up look at the yachts. Take a boat trip out to see dolphins unhampered by confined areas like Selwo Marina, swimming freely and playing, living a longer life than they will in captivity. The marina also has a very nice Sealife aquarium. In the area known as ‘24-hour Square’ there are bars, disco clubs and many gift shops and general shopping. The reason for the 24-hour tag is that youngsters gather at around midnight, and I’m told that it becomes
Casa de la Cultura interior
Back street in Arroyo
the type of place that we of a more gentle mature age should not be seen. The Bil Bil has become a landmark situated between the two roundabouts known as the ‘Windmills’ and the ‘Sails’ on the sea road from Torremolinos through to Fuengirola. The Bil Bil has nice fountains and benches to sit and read the Sunday papers, alongside the bronze statue of Ibn al-Baytar (hero of Benalmádena). In the whole area the sea front has good beaches and promenades, with my favourite Sunday lunchtime beach restaurant ‘‘Maracas’’. The first hotel in Benalmádena was the La Roca, followed quickly by the Siroco, Tritón, Riviera and then the Alay.
Benalmádena Marina
These days Benalmádena Costa has a very good tourist figures that are drawn by good beaches and excellent facilities. Now Benalmádena Costa, along with the Pueblo and Arroyo are said to have around 53,000 inhabitants, so what does the The Bil Bil future hold for Benalmádena as it moves onto a new phase? To the trepidation of many of the residents, the council want to launch a project called Proyecto Olimpo (Olimpo project) whose main objective is to build a Monorail. Many of us thought that this plan had been killed off but beware. Certain people in the municipal government still want to build this intrusive system over our houses and apartments so that when you are sitting on your terraces your privacy will be invaded by wagonloads of people as they trundle by peering into your windows. Other plans ahead ‘‘are to enlarge the Marina and improve and/or adapt all infrastructures so as to provide Benalmádena's municipality with quality standards and sustained growth that its 21st century inhabitants and tourist are asking for’’ (their words not mine). However most of us can see that a major downturn in the sale of property, with banks not loaning money, most people overstretched by taxes, and a pending recession in Europe, all those major plans by some municipal councillors that live in lofty towers could just be pipe dreams. Meanwhile I will sit on my Terrace sipping my gin and tonic, looking down over Benalmádena Costa and watching cruise ships heading off to exotic places, and then my wife and I will take a short stroll into Arroyo and have a little repast, and in attendance will be the happy and smiling Mike at Otelli’s in Plaza España/Fountain Square.
Gin and tonic on the terrace
BENALMADENA Family Bar Family atmosphere Open 7 days per week from 10 am Food served daily Sky sports - pool table - large terrace Karaoke every Sat and Sunday live music Friday’s Sunday roast served all day Sunday Avenida Chorillo, Benalmadena Pueblo
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fredericks Est 6 yrs
irish Bar
Fine British and International cuisine at affordable prices
Famous hog roast every Sunday (eat as much as you like only 9.95)
Christmas Day Make Christmas Day Special Only 1 sitting for lunch, we won’t rush you away after your meal. Stay with us day and night and join in the fun. Live background music & a great party atmosphere. Superb 6 Course Menu inc ½ bottle of wine per person All this for only 60 euros 2.30 for 3pm
STRICTLY BOOKINGS ONLY
New Years Eve Celebrate New Year in style with a Buffet Supper. Free Wine and beer all night long, Spanish and British New Year celebrated Dance the night away- great party atmosphere. Tickets only 35 euros
Open 7 days from 10am till 2am
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Looking for somewhere special to hold your Christmas party? Special 3 Course Christmas Party Menu only 18.95 inc ½ bottle of wine per person. Great party atmosphere, fantastic food and a night to remember. Group bookings - min 10 persons- limited places available.
Extensive menu - all fresh home cooked food Try our special irish sirloin steaks and homemade chips Pool table - darts - sky sports Karaoke Fri, Sat and Sun from 9pm till 11.45pm Calle Chorillo, Benalmadena Pueblo
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Avda Salvador allende 62, Montemar (next to Brit Bits and opp Aloha Puerto Hotel) 952 373 513, 617 955 283 / 620 122 080
The Terrace Bar at Vista Del Mar Benalmadena Pueblo
Relax and enjoy our magnificent view over the Mediterranean Mike and Suzanne welcome you Fresh home cooked food served all day from 1pm Big Screen TV All live sporting events shown Sky sports - Setanta etc. Open 1pm till late (closed Tuesdays) Open all over Christmas & New Year inc. Christmas Day with FREE buffet
695 958 926 for more information costa life 11
>> costaCOMPANIES
Local Business Spotlight
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A .C.E. C ORTIN AS S.C.
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Aztec Hair & Beauty
costa COMPANIES >>
Superior Dry Cleaning Express Laundry Service & Surprisingly Low Prices Costa Life caught up with Co director Annie Mcguire to ask some questions about their unique cleaning operation.
Q A
How long do I have to wait before collecting my order?
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952 930 392 Visit us at Ctro Comm Calahonda Unit 7 km 197 Calahonda, Mijas Costa, Malaga
24Hours
No, we only use eco friendly green earth odourless (no smell) solvent
25 years cleaning in the UK
Here at HOTP we are perfectionists, if it’s not right 1st time we will do the job again for free
Q A
Is the dry cleaning process without liquid?
Q A
Do you have a seamstress for alterations and fittings instore?
No, it washes the clothes in a solvent instead of water
Yes we have an excellent seamstress who is available Monday to Friday between 10am and 5pm
Q A
Can you clean suede and leather garments and also rugs? We can clean pretty much anything but with these kinds of items we need 14 days
Q A
Do you use rollers to press the laundry? No, we only hand iron all laundry on professional tables for a superb finish
Q A
Can you remove stains from all garments and laundry? We are stain removal experts and we are highly trained in stain removal techniques, if we can’t get it out no one can.
Q A
Who is your competition? We are the only 100% British dry cleaners on the coast
Introductory trial voucher offer (to new clients only)
10%
off all cleaning until 31st December 2007
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A .C.E. C ORTIN AS S.C. We came to Spain in May 2005 bringing the whole family to give them a better life in the sun. I started as a trainee at the age of 15 and finished my apprenticeship at 21. This covered all aspects of soft furnishing from cushions to loose covers some upholstery even carpet sewing. I have worked in domestic and commercial soft furnishing for most of my adult life. Up to coming to Spain nearly three years ago and starting our business, I did private work from home whilst my family were growing up. My Daughter Clair now works with me and she does most of the interior design and sourcing items for our clients. We also offer complete furnishing packages to suit the customer's budget. My husband and son-in-law are also partners in the company. My son-inlaw and husband do all the rail, pole, pelmet and headboard fitting for us. Our materials start from 1 euro a metre off the roll. Most of these come from England as do most of our curtain poles. We also have a wide range of samples from a company in Valencia who have a warehouse in Malaga. These materials start from 15 euros a metre up to 200 euros a metre. We also use local companies for curtain rails that are made to the customer's requirements. If we don't have what the customer is looking for we are happy to source it for them or if they want to get the fabric themselves we can tell them exactly how much they need and we will make it up for them. We also have a range of ready made curtains and bedding to order. There is a varied mix of styles from traditional swags and tails for window dressings to modern plain upholstered pelmets and headboards, from Moorish castle design to modern minimalist styles. People usually know what they want in England and can tell you exactly what they are looking for but when it comes to choosing for their homes in Spain they want something very different and often need help in deciding what will go with what. We have a catalogue of the handcrafted pine furniture for customers to choose from and we also make to the customers requirements i.e.: if there is only a small space for a bedside cabinet he will make it to fit the space. The furniture is made by my son-in-law Barry who worked for a furniture making company in England for ten years before coming to Spain. He also makes all our pelmets and headboards.
We advertise the properties on a very popular English web site for holiday rentals. Information regarding property management can be emailed to you. Over the last couple of months we have also moved into property sales. If you are looking for a property here in Spain, tell us your budget what and where you want to be and our property sales representative Kelly who works along side us has several years experience in property sales here in Spain and England will do the leg work for you. She also helps with the running of the property management for long and short term rentals. We can source properties send you the details and arrange appointments to view so you are not spending your time trawling the estate agents. We are at the moment in the process of building a Website in which we hope will provide all our customers, home and abroad, new and old with a pleasant online experience. Finally, 90% of our clients are referrals from other satisfied customers. We pride ourselves on giving our clients value for money and a job well done we are always happy to go the extra mile. All work undertaken is done to a high standard that we would expect if we were having the work done ourselves. Weather it be an ordinary pair of curtains to an extra -ordinary window dressing for a castle. From domestic to commercial work for restaurants and hotels.
A .C.E. C ORTIN AS S.C. CURTAINS, BEDSPREADS, CUSHIONS, LOOSE COVERS, HEADBOARDS, PELMETS, SWAGS AND TAILS ALL MADE TO MEASURE.
We stock a wide range of poles and rails at reasonable prices
My Husband Jon is a qualified electrician but both he and Barry can turn their hand to most maintenance work but if a more specialist type of job comes up we have a list of reputable and reliable craftsmen to draw on. We are now doing as much maintenance and furniture work as soft furnishing!! Many customers return to England leaving us with their keys. They ask us to clean their homes and look after the maintenance side whilst they are back in the UK, ready for them to come on holiday. So they don’t have anything to do when here except relax and enjoy there second home. So much so, that at the beginning of the year we branched out into Property Management. We can offer our clients:- a cleaning and laundry service, monthly visual inspections (emailing any problems found), key collection, welcome packs, etc…. This side of the business has proved to be very much welcomed by our clients.
We offer a free measuring & fitting service. We can use your materials or pick out from our stock. Alterations & repairs undertaken. We have a range of readymade curtains and bedding available to order. We can give a full furnishing & interior design quotation if required.
A.C.E. Property Management & Maintenance will assist you in Electrical requirements, general painting. Woodwork and general property maintenance. We also make small items of hand crafted furniture.
“We Do It So You Don't Have To” Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday and evenings by appointment Unit 5 Centro Comercial, Las Terrazas De Mirafloresgolf, Calle Acuario Rivera Del Sol, Mijas Costa 29649 Tel 951 273 242 Fax 951 273 437 Mob 645 082 560 email: info@acecortinas.com
costa COMPANIES >>
When you are walking into COSTA-CARPET, you will notice, that you have come to the right place! There is an amazing collection of rugs with reasonable prices in different styles - between modern and traditional timeless rugs. The designs and colours of collections are living this day, lot of fashion products like shaggy pile and very hard natural materials too, like paper yarn and sisal. Those traditional woollen rugs does not looks old-fashioned at all, they are coloured with light and soft colours! If you are looking for a more colourful rug, they have a good selection of hand-knotted oriental carpets from Iran and India.
COSTA-CARPET is in a great location on Carretera de Mijas (the road from Fuengirola to Mijas Pueblo), an area where many people come to shop furniture, design and other home products. When I was visiting there I met an owner of Costa-Carpet, He is a Finnish, Mr. Miika Ihander. I asked few questions from him: First, do you speak English, Spanish or? Miika answers with smile ‘‘We are smiling in every languages!’’, then He continues ‘‘Most of our customers are british or Scandinavians - our products suit their taste best’’. How about your experience of carpets, you seem quite young (I’ll guess He is around 30)? ‘‘Next years will change the ‘‘problem’’ of age. I have been over 10 years in business and my business partner, Mr. Tapani Eloranta has over 30 years of experience on the field - together we have over 40 years experience in the business. One of my slogan is ‘‘it’s easier to learn more, when you know much already’’.’’
The reasonable pricing means that big rugs are from 99 euros and almost every rug costs under 1000 euros. Usually, if they do not have some design or size in stock, they will kindly order it for you at same price without any extra cost. COSTA-CARPET has almost every big carpet manufacturer in the world in their collection and by looking through their catalogue you can order anything under the sun. COSTA-CARPET has professional team for fitted carpets and all type wood floors as well. They have all well known brands like Victoria Carpets, Lano, Quick-Step and they offers all types of materials like 100% wool, 80%/20%, carpet squares and British underlays too!
Why your shop is located near of your competitors shops? ‘‘I’ll think, it’s only positive thing, this area is very alluring. It’s easier for customers when they can visit many shops at same time.’’ Then Miika smiles and says: ‘‘When customers have seen others shops, it’s easier for us to make deal with them’’. If You can tell only one thing, what is Costa-Carpet’s strong point? ‘‘Only one?’’ ‘‘Ok. Costa-Carpet has a wider selection of reasonably priced and high quality rugs’’.
In the shop there is some samples of favourite carpets… but as they say, always it is better to see different samples at the place where the carpet is coming. In fact, lightning and colours of walls and other decoration things at your place is very important point, when you are choosing just the right colour for your floors. The team of COSTA-CARPET will help you to choose the right material and the colour, They will bring samples at your place, measure quantity and estimate installation work at same time. This service and quotation is free without any obligation! (And I can say they are quick, if they have the right carpet in stock, it could be installed in next few days) COSTA-CARPET’s custom-made sliding doors and wardrobes are interesting products too. There is a huge collection of different materials and colours what can be used for the doors. The doors are very highquality, made in Finland. The producer of doors named Kirena has a good website and you will get many good new ideas when you are visiting www.kirena.com. Example, after changing new doors to your bedrooms wardrobe, the room looks totally new. Maybe the room feels bigger too, because sliding doors needs less space than if you have had open doors before.
Twilight 140x200 149,00 €
Huge collection of reasonable priced rugs, fitted carpets, wood floors and also sliding doors and wardrobes. Professional installation, free quotation without obligation.
Ctra. de Mijas, Edif. Costamueble, Mijas Costa (The road from Fuengirola to Mijas Pueblo, between Imperial and Centro Idea) You can hear the quality too - doors are moving very silent and one inspired thing more, the doors have system they can not jump from the rail. COSTA-CARPET has full design and installation service of Kirena products too. They will carry out old things and their carpenter will fits the new products.
Mon to Sat 9:30-13:30 and Mon,Wed to Fri 16:00-19:00 Tel. 952 473 328 info@costa-carpet.com
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>> costa COMPANIES
Merry Christmas to all our clients old and new from Aztec Hair and Beauty Hair As our clients will testify, Hair at the Aztec, based at Riviera del Sol, offers a warm welcome and professional service. Helen, the salon owner, had her own business in the UK for 15 years and she also taught to City & Guilds standard at the North West's largest hairdressing college. She has enjoyed using her vast experience on the Coast for the past eight years. Due to Helen’s experience in both hairdressing and teaching, she was approached by The International Training Group to take part in a pilot scheme whereby students could train to IVQ level in a real salon environment. The pilot has been outstandingly successful having already produced qualified hairdressers. The salon also specializes in long hair, colouring, fashion and bridal shows and is complemented by a beauty therapist, nail technician and chiropodist.
Contact 952 939 609 Hair at the Aztec Country Club
Beauty Since taking over the Beauty Department at Aztec nearly 2 years ago Selene has built up an excellent reputation amongst her clientele in a very short space of time. Selene understands that each individual person is unique and has individual needs at different times. Whether it is coping with stresses of work or family life, relaxing and trying to put your life in balance is essential for your well being. Relax in the beauty rooms with relaxing music, soft lighting, whilst having only the finest products applied, Selene has carefully selected Repechage skincare and body products to ensure the treatment is the very best. Selene offers a wide range of treatments ranging from Hot stone Massage, reflexology, Nailtques Manicures and pedicures to St Tropez Tanning, waxing and eye treatments. Qualifying at City College Manchester and with over 15 years experience Selene is always up to date with the latest techniques and therapies. Call today for an appointment.
Chiropodist Our resident Chiropodist can advise on any problems you may experience. If at any time you suffer from: 1. Abnormal foot pain 2. Are Diabetic 3. Suffer Ingrown Nails, Corns, Fungal Infections, Verrucas You should always consult a Chiropodist/Podiatrist to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.
Wendy Davey M.S.S.Ch M.B.Ch.A 16 costa life
John Rope-Clinical Psychologist John has first a degree in Psychology and Sociology and a second master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. Clinical Psychologists use proven methods to help people who are experiencing problems with their feelings and behaviour such as:- fears, phobias, depression, bereavement, obsessions, compulsions, sexual problems, relationship problems, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress, lack of assertiveness, aggressive behaviour, problems at work and many more.
Nail Extensions We offer: acrylic, gel, silk, fiberglass extensions and natural overlays. A full set of nails takes approximately 1 hour to apply. It is essential to maintain them with regular appointments every 2-3 weeks to rebalance them and prevent any damage to the natural nail. A popular choice this summer has been French polish extensions for toe nails. The result gives you perfect, low-maintenance toes for the party months. Our nail technician is fully college qualified in all systems and a member of ANT. For more information contact Helen and her team.
Semi Permanent Make Up Imagine waking up beautiful every morning! Or swimming and excercising without the fear of disappearing eyebrows or smudged eyeliner. Everyone benefits from it, from the young to the elderly, who desire a soft, natural enhancement to their appearances. It’s the ideal solution for those who simply don’t have the time to fuss with make-up everyday. Semi - Permanent make-up is ideal for those who find applying make-up difficult because of bad eye sight, or are allergic to cosmetics. It’s also a ‘‘perfect fix’’ for over-plucked eyebrows. Why don’t you give us a call to find out more about this safe and almost painless method.
Hair & Beauty at the Aztec Country Club Riviera del Sol
Tel.: 952 939 609 hairataztec@hotmail.co.uk Opening Hours Tuesday - Friday 10 - 7pm Saturday 10 - 2pm
Don’t be disappointed, book now for your Christmas hair and beauty
costa COMPANIES >> Bookings must be made in advance as only one sitting is catered and always fills fast.
El Brujo is also open Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day from 7.00pm serving Al a Carte menu plus special seasonal dishes.
Sunday at El Brujo
Telephone 952 479 746 Established now for over 16 years the Restaurant El Brujo (the Wizard) has become one of the most well known eateries in the Fuengirola Mijas area, and for good reason. This Autumn Chefs Ray and Chris have turned their attention to some more traditional English dishes such as Braised Rump steak, Roast chicken with apple and cider stuffing, Steak and kidney pudding, plus many more classic favourites which every evening will find their way onto the Brujo specials board as well as the 3 course menus which are 13 or 16 euros and boast plenty of selection including tender sirloin steaks. To finish off your meal, El Brujo maintains an excellent dessert menu with freshly cooked pancakes, syrup puddings, profiteroles, chocolate brownies and many more including Rays dessert of the day.
Not only is the atmosphere friendly and fun but the food is freshly cooked and there’s plenty of it. When dining at El Brujo you have a choice of 1, 2 or 3 courses to suite your appetite. Always on offer are roast topside of beef, lean leg of lamb, succulent pork (with crackling), chicken and a steak pie straight from heaven. Also on offer are fish dishes and the usual sumptuous treats from the dessert menu. Sunday roast is served all day from 1pm till 10pm so you can eat at a time that suits you. Booking is advisable. Main course - 9 euros. 2 courses - 11 euros. 3 courses 13 euros. Now thanks to recent alterations El toilets and baby changing facilities.
Brujo boasts wheelchair friendly
The main Al a Carte menu is well thought out and offers a wide variety of tastes from spicy prawns ‘pil pil’ (made only with freshly peeled prawns) to great soups prepared daily. Main courses include Barbequed fillet or sirloin steaks, unbelievably tender B.B.Q. or honey roasted racks of ribs and halves of slow roasted, crispy duck. The selection of fish, pork, poultry and vegetarian dishes are certainly enough to please everyone, even the fussiest of children with their own menu to choose from. When the mood takes you the fish and chips (cod, haddock or plaice) from El Brujo is really second to none.
Christmas at El Brujo Restaurant and bar are open all through the Christmas period including a great night on Christmas Eve with great special menus and always a friendly atmosphere. The 25th, Christmas day is, as always, a big day for El Brujo. Starting the day at 2pm with cava and canapés to give everyone a chance to chat and relax with the first course of soup being served at 2.45pm followed with a prawn cocktail and then the excellent roast El Brujo does so well, a traditional plate of succulent turkey with ALL the trimmings. To follow this up is Rays very own recipe Christmas puddings with mince pies and plenty of brandy cream. The whole day is priced at 60 euros, including good wine with the meal and coffee.
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>> costa COMPANIES soft, nourished and luxuriously pampered without feeling tacky, heavy or greasy.
The latest buzzword on every trendsetter’s lips is ‘‘Über’’. Über encapsulates the finest exotic ingredients from around the world, providing a complete beauty, tanning and hair range. Über has unprecedented unisex appeal with the stylish women’s range ‘‘ÜberSassy’’ and the cool men’s line ‘‘Über Slick’’. Last month The Retreat had the pleasure of introducing this amazing, new and fresh product range to our treatment list. The treatments have all been designed specifically to enhance the product range, yet providing 5* treatments for clients. The Über Sassy Facial brings the senses together in harmony, working mainly with the sense of smell and touch. If you think of beauty and tranquility combined, giving you something along the lines of a tropical paradise, this gives you an idea of where this facial comes from and takes you to. The facial commences with a thorough cleanse and removal of make-up. The cleanser contains rejuvenating Frankincense, cooling Mandarin and avocado oil which helps to hydrate and improve the elasticity of the skin, whilst reducing moisture loss and helping the skin to fight against environmental pollution. The Über toner is in the form of a spritzer which, for the Spanish climate, is perfect, fresh, cool, quick and easy to use. After toning the skin and removing any excess cleanser, the skin is exfoliated with the facial polish. The crushed apricot and walnut shells awaken the sense of smell as well as reviving and moisturizing dull, tired lifeless skin by removing dead skin cells. The skin is then spritzed once again with the Frankincense and Mandarin Facial Toner, preserving natural oils and maintaining the pH balance of the skin. Next comes the part of the facial most of us dream of, the massage. This facial massage incorporates the neck, shoulders and décolleté using a luxurious yet light massage oil with extracts of frankincense and mandarin harmonizing the body, soothing the mind and relaxing the muscles. The Über Facial massage works with the ingredient Oriental Sea Kelp to stabilize the Collagen and elastin levels. This massage, which you would normally only receive in top Hotels or Spas, takes you into a state of complete relaxation. Following the massage a moisturizing mask is applied to the skin, with eye pads placed over the eyes to continue the journey into the world of pure tranquillity. Whilst the avocado and mandarin mask is on the skin, a high gloss anti-frizz serum is massaged into the scalp followed by a scalp massage to ease and sooth any tension in the head. The mask is then removed and the skin spritzed once more. A cooling eye gel with magnolia extract to relieve puffiness is then placed around the eye area helping to soothe and uplift dull, tired eyes. The moisturiser with extracts of frankincense and mandarin is then applied feeding and replenishing the skin, while oriental sea kelp helps to stabilize the e l a s t i n levels, whilst avocado e x t r a c t hydrates. The skin is left feeling
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Having experienced a top quality facial with amazing products the thought of continuing this at home is usually only a dream. However no expense has been spared on bringing the finest ingredients from around the world to the extensive range of Über products. These exotic extracts have been specially chosen and formulated to give hair and skin the most vibrant, healthy and glowing look. Distinctively packaged in minimalistic chic, this fabulous lifestyle range’s edgy image is gaining cult status amongst the movers and shakers of the celebrity world. These products would be an asset to any bathroom. Believe it or not the product prices are reasonable. The most expensive is the day and night cream which is 43.00 Euros. If you would like to try this amazing new treatment, or any other treatments in the Über Face, Body or Tanning range, please contact The Retreat Health and Beauty to make an appointment or for further details. 952 595 846, 666143901
‘‘Charlotte wanted to give the guests on her show personal gifts, as she is a fan of Über’’ The Charlotte Church Show
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Sollys Diner at the Christama Centre After a successful summer season, we are now introducing a new al-a-carte menu.
publican with a caricature to match, so the atmosphere is great, staff friendly, and there is always a joke or two being told around the tables.
Even though our salt beef and chicken soup is the best, we realize some people like a wider choice.
Thursday nights and Sunday lunch is fun when you can catch Solly himself crooning a few tunes in that old Sinatra way and cracking a joke.
We are also introducing what we consider a fabulous value for money traditional Sunday roast. Which consists of, a choice of 3 starters, 3 main course, beef, lamb, or turkey, desert and a glass of cava along with live music. All for 15€ per head. So call and book to ensure your table:
Stepping into Sollys is like stepping down memory lane, with a gallery of pictures of the east end now long gone.
951 279 321
So your visit to Sollys, should be an enjoyable experience, whether it be just for a coffee and toasted beigel for breakfast or a 3 course meal and entertainment. You’re sure to enjoy.
Sollys is intent to make the restaurant a sociable gathering, where people can come and meet old friends and make new. Mondays: if enough interest is shown , we are hoping to start a bridge club. Call if interested: 951 279 321 Tuesday: is bath night, this is an English style Turkish bath, so if you enjoy a steam and a massage this is for you. Tuesday: (kalooki night) knock out competitions each week. Thursday: live music with Philip (singers welcome). Fri: pre Sabbath dinner. Saturdays: live football and sport with a beigel. Sunday: traditional Sunday roast lunch with live music. Quiz Night Call for information, Times, Dates etc. Comedy nights ........................... are coming soon (adults only) dates to be arranged. For the people who reside here or who are here for Christmas, we will be doing a 4 course Christmas lunch on Christmas day. One sitting 1pm to 4pm pre booked and pre paid 50€ per head. So book early as only a limited number of bookings taken. And ...................New Years Eve party 75€ per head........ this will be an all inclusive buffet party. Again a limited amount of tickets to be pre paid, so book early.
951
279
321
For those who have not heard of Sollys before: Sollys diner is a kosher style restaurant located in puerto banus, opp El Corte Ingles and was opened in May this year by Solly and wife Margaret. It was based on the blooms kosher restaurant in London’s old east end, and Solly and wife are the true and typical east enders. Solly is an ex
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>> costa LIFESTYLE
Burnout… The job that seemed like a fantastic idea a few years ago has gone from filling your bank account to sucking the life out of you. Professional burnout happens to just about everyone, and it’s like a disease. At first it attacks your personal morale, and over time, it takes over and destroys both your career and your personal life. You can’t focus for more than five minutes. You’re not jumping out of bed. You just don’t care. You lose potential income by not performing.
Take some serious time off At some point, we just need a mental, emotional and physical break. If possible, try taking as much time off at once as you possibly can. Anything longer than a week is ideal.
Pick some new projects A great deal of burnout comes from working on the same stuff over and over. Maybe it’s time to start changing up your schedule so you're working on something new and innovative.
Set an outside performance goal You may not be able to work on anything other than what you’re assigned at work, but you can still mix up your routine. Try setting some goals outside of your work, such as exercise goals, taking on a new hobby or traveling.
Marriage Joke… A man tells his doctor he’s unable to do all the things around the house that he used to do. After the exam, he says, ‘‘Now, doc, I can take it. Tell me in plain English what the hell’s wrong with me.’’ ‘‘In layman’s terms, you’re lazy,’’ says the doctor. ‘‘OK. Now give me a medical term, so I can tell my wife.’’
Read between her lines… I’m between relationships. I’m interested, but I haven’t made up my mind. She’s put up a wall with an open window, Your play: Ask her and her friends to a BBQ. This will win over her friends and send her straight into your arms. I’ve been dying to see that movie. Ask me out. Any desire she expresses about a movie or a new restaurant is often an invitation to ask her out Your play: Me, too Want to go? I have a boyfriend, but he lives in Rome. I’m taken, but I might consider a change. Your play: Ask her to help you shop for a tie. She’ll fill a void in her relationship by helping out with an errand.
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Celebrity Quotes... I spent 90% of my money on women and drink. The rest I wasted - George Best It seems to me that any sensible person must see that violence does not change the world and if it does then only temporarily - Martin Scorsese My notion of a wife at forty is that you should be able to change her like a bank note for two twenties - Warren Beatty I’m a born entertainer when I open the fridge and the light comes on I burst into song Robbie Williams
>> costa LIFESTYLE >> Classic smells…
>> Dress to impress… Black satin lapel suit jacket Topman
Clinique Happy
Joop Homme
Black shiny waist coat Topman
Black skinny tie Topman
Plain red skinny tie Topman
Hugo Boss in Motion
>> Step out in Style...
Black Label classic double breasted mac Burtons
Classic black shirt Burtons
Black leather lace brogue Burtons
Flanel suit Burtons
H&M
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Store Locator A to Z
Accessorize www.accessorize.com La Cañada. Burtons www.burton.co.uk Gibraltar. Dunnes Stores www.dunnesstores.com Fuengirola, Coin, Malaga. Evans www.evans.com Miramar, La Cañada. H&M www.hm.com La Cañada. Monsoon www.monsoon.com Gibraltar. Topman www.topman.com La Cañada. Topshop www.topshop.com La Cañada.
Dunnes >>
>> A Season of Choice Classic is still in...
>> Star Fragrances‌ L by Gwen Stefani L.A.M.B.
>> Step out in Style‌ Perspex platform shoe with ankle strap Topshop
Naomi Cambell Cat Deluxe at Night
Kylie Monogue Sweet Darling
Satin jeweled sandal Evans
Cinderella Corsage Bag Accessorize
Jewel Purple Wedge Slingback Shoes Monsoon Metallic bag Evans
Bow Frame Satin Clutch Bag Accessorize
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>> costa LIFESTYLE
Maximize your Moisturisation Why do we get such dry skin in winter? Does your skin feel tight? Is your skin flaky and peeling? It is vital we protect our skin by moisturising properly. Moisturiser forms a protective shield against all the elements that can cause dry, flaky, lifeless winter skin.
film, such as cocoa butter and walnut oil, and agents which absorb and lock moisture into your skin like a sponge (aloe, algae and seaweed etc).
How should age influence our choice of moisturiser?
Our skin suffers from a lack of moisture in winter because it does not secrete as much sebum in lower temperatures, so the film which slows down the evaporation of moisture from your skin is weaker and less effective.
Your skin’s natural moisturising properties diminish with age because as the epidermis gets older it has less contact with the dermis (this aids moisturisation).
What should we look for in a moisturiser?
Often cream moisturisers are for dry skin and liquid moisturisers are for greasy skin.
Anti-dehydrating oils to compensate for the weakness of your protective
New ‘‘A-List Fix Day and Night Cream’’ From the Uber Sassy product range, this product uses extracts of frankincense and mandarin to feed and replenish the skin. Extracts of oriental sea kelp and collagen support the skin and stabiles elastin levels whilst avocado extracts ensure the skin is rehydrated. Denies Van Outen uses the Uber range
Do’s and don’ts Don’t overload! Nude bases are showing no signs of going out, so keep it pale and interesting to flatter your complexion naturally Do make it your own! The key to this season’s look is imagination. Do go the extra mile! Eye Lash Extensions are a futuristic solution for those not blessed with naturally long lashes, or a fabulous result for those that do! Don't go for full on shine! Less is definitely more. 24 costa life
What texture of moisturiser suits our skin?
This Seasons must have metallics There’s no escaping it, metallic is everywhere this season, shining from the catwalks and glinting in the shop windows. Shimmering shades, warm glowing bronzes and timeless antique pewters are a must-have.
The Return of Floral Perfumes This season, floral but simmering with spice, warm woody notes have made a huge come back. Perfume today is going back to its roots. There are similar trends for masculine and feminine perfumes this Autumn.
costa LIFESTYLE >>
Nail & Hair Parlour NSI and Creative Gel trained nail technician offers UV Gel tips, overlays, manicure and pedicures. Gel on your toes, french or colour will last 6-8 weeks. Let me transform your nails. Having your nails done should be a relaxing experience. I practice a safe and sanitary service. Try the coloured gels and your favourite colour will last 2-3 weeks and safe to touch immediately. Hair Extensions made with 100% Human hair.
Christmas offers now on call for more details Check out my website at www.nailparlourspain.com for examples of Nails and Hair extensions Also available for home visits. Ring Mandy
NEW YEAR!!
669 229 750
NEW CAREER!!
Why not train to be a professional Nail Technician Train with us and we will show you how to move forward in this exciting and rewarding industry
LEARN Acrylic, Gel & Fibreglass Techniques together with Manicure, Pedicure, Freehand Nail Art, Airbrushing and all other aspects of this wonderful trade.
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 25
>> costa LIFESTYLE
POSITIVITY Feeling positive keeps you healthy. In a recent study published in the journal psychosomatic medicine, positive people were 34% less likely to become ill when exposed to a virus !
HOW HUNGRY ARE YOU REALLY? Eating without thinking about it is one of the biggest problems clients have. Try this hunger scale to see if you are really hungry or just bored or tired. You can then see where you can save calories. The ideal time to eat is when you are feeling between 1 and 4, but preferably before you get to 2 when you are more likely to over eat because you are too hungry. If you feel between 5 or 6 wait 20 minutes as this is the time it takes for your brain to get the signal that you are full !
10 - Christmas dinner full ! 9 - very uncomfortably full - you need to undo your belt or button 8 - uncomfortably full and bloated 7 - full - and a little uncomfortable 6 - perfectly comfortable - you feel good 5 - comfortable - more or less satisfied, but you could maybe eat a little more 4 - slightly uncomfortable, the first sign of hunger 3 - uncomfortably hungry - your stomach is rumbly 2 - very uncomfortable, irritable and unable to concentrate 1 - weak and light headed !
YOUR CALORIES IN THE DAY! Typically a 10 stone female needs around 1500 calories to keep fit and healthy. Check out these everyday calorie buring activites CALORIES BURNED ACTIVITY PER HOUR Changing the bed 95 Showering 64 Ironing 83 Vacuming 160 Reading Sitting down 20 Talking on phone - sat down 32 Talking on phone - standing up 51 Sitting in a meeting 32 Food shopping 182 Carrying groceries upstairs 445 Cooking 64 Washing Dishes 95 FIT POINTS - the new calorie counters - an alternative view! Do you some days feel like you have been working out, even when you have not. This might be because you feel hot and bothered doing the house work, rushing from place to place, chasing the kids around. But does it mean you’ve burnt off enough calories, to benefit you? The University of South Carolina have devised ‘‘fit points’’, looking at how much energy is burnt doing everyday activities. You need to score at least 6. Doing each activity for at least 30 minutes.
SCOREBOARD Gently strolling - 2 points Vacuming - 3.5 points Unloading car or pushing heavy shopping trolley - 3.5 points Briskly walking, like when you are late - 4 points Gardening - 4 points Pushing a buggy - 4 points Climbing stairs - 4 points Carrying the kids - 6 points To stay slim the real secret is to keep up with cardio type exercises. People who stay vigorously active as they get older gain significantly less weight than people who exercise at more moderate levels.
BINGO WINGS ! Get your arms back into shape ! Roll your shoulders backwards and lift arms above your head 10 times. Then sit on the edge of the bath with your hands on the edge, close to your bottom, fingers facing forward. Slide your bottom off the edge of the bath and draw shoulder blades back while you dip down, bending at the elbows. Do 6-20 reps. Finally, with 2 weights raise slightly bent arms out to the sides up to shoulder height. Turn palms forward then down again. Do 8-20 reps Tips for Injury prevention 1. Warm up slowly for at least five to ten minutes. This will help prevent injuries. 2. Gradually increase exercise time and intensity. 3. Listen to your body. If you suffer from any sharpe pains, weakness or lightheadedness during exercise, stop and rest. 4. If you have any muscles that are aching from a previous session, don’t train the same sore body parts the next day. Muscles need time for rest and recovery. 5. Try and include lean protein in your diet, as this will aid muscle recovery after a gym session. Eat healthily by: using olive oil instead of saturated fat for cooking eating a healthy breakfast, such as fruit and yogurt or muesli and whole meal toast eating slowly and allowing time for eating. Stop when you are 80% full exercising for at least 30 minutes, five times a week eating at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables daily only snacking on fruit, vegetables or other healthy foods monitoring your eating habits and weight drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day
Can you give a bit of support ! On 4th November I am running the New York marathon for the charity team for kids This is a totally inspiring charity covering the globe, promoting positivity through sporting involvement. The foundation promotes ‘‘at risk’’ children’s physical health, emotional well-being and personal achievement, through a program of positivity and motivation it drives kids to become fit now and remain fit for life. Focusing on fighting childhood obesity through exercise and improved nutrition. I love the ‘‘nothing is impossible’’ philosophy and how this charity drives kids to be life achievers through chasing their dreams and never giving up. If you would like to make a donation please contact me at helenjohnson@mercuryin.es
Helen Johnson - Personal Fitness Trainer & Nutritionist - 617 453 550 - fitness@luv2btraining.com 26 costa life
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Community Mental Health Team Wound Care Clinic Health Assessments Weight Management Dyslexia Assessments Alternative Therapist Counseling service Hypertension management
Care Coordination Centre Well Women's Clinic Men's Health Clinic Asthma Clinic Diabetes Management Vaccination Clinics Nutrition
A Nurse led service providing an innovative and holistic approach to healthcare that brings the values and practices of a British Health Centre to the Costa del Sol, enabling you to access a service that is familiar
Tel: 952 83 57 76 www.clinicamedicare.com
Located in Elviria, nr Marbella. Next to Barclays Bank (Just off the N340 Coast Road, direction Marbella) costa life 27
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T
he party season is upon us it’s time to start thinking about that perfect party dress. The shops are full with glamorous outfits which can make this task a little overwhelming so remember not to panic buy. Try to take a friend along who will give you an honest opinion. This is the time when you can step out and be noticed!
For example, a black strapless gown with no adornment could carry a chunky diamond bracelet and necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings. Solid colour dresses and neutrals are a great backdrop for colourful jewels. On the other hand, the more ruffles, tiers and beading a garment has, the simpler the accessories should be. It doesn’t mean you have to go bare (although if you are young and gorgeous, that’s a big statement in itself), but you need to use restraint and choose smaller pieces.
Shawls and Stoles:
Go for colour… You don’t need Julianne Moore’s or Marcia Cross’s red hair and fair skin to look striking in colour. But you do need to know which hues work best with your skin and hair. Don’t buy into the belief that there are a limited number of colours that work for you; instead be your own best stylist and hold up hues to your face to see which ones bring out your skin tone, eyes and hair the best. In general, warm hues like fire engine red and coral look best on brunettes with darker colouring; cool pastels work for blondes. But there are a myriad of colours -- metallic gold and silver included -- that work for all colourings.
Major bling or fab dress… ...but not both. The idea here is to make either the dress or the accessories the focus, not both. 28 costa life
Embroidered, velvet or fringed shawls and stoles can add glamour to the simplest of dresses and can make your basic dress look rich and beautiful. The best option is to use the shawl or stole whose fabric matches your dress.
Play safe… the little black dress… When it comes to the party season, that little black dress can give you a different look for every party you attend. Change your hairstyle with each combination and wear your makeup differently each time for a completely different look. Black is by far the safest colour you could wear for any occasion. A black dress is about the most versatile piece of clothing you own. It
costa LIFESTYLE >> The best way for you to have fun with fashion is to try something new: venture into a store that you’ve never shopped in, wear straight-leg jeans if you’re a bootleg girl, try a mini and tights instead of a full, knee-length skirt. The idea is to push the limits of your wardrobe and experience innovative looks.
Flaunt it… Designer fashion is made for the skinny. It’s sad, but true. But that shouldn’t stop you from strutting your stuff at your works Christmas party or New Years Eve do. You should never cover up your assets with a high-neck gown or wear a sack-like dress to disguise curves. Everyone has at least one great asset, even if it’s something as simple as thick hair, white teeth or nice legs. Hilary Swank displays a toned back. You don’t have to do anything too extravagant to show off your best feature; just make sure that your look enhances it. If your best feature is great skin, the last thing you’d want to do is cover up every inch of it with clothing.
Top it off with a killer hairdo… Get the hair right: don’t have it too casual or too contrived for the dress. In fact, just going with a fancier version of your everyday look is much easier to carry off than going with a complicated beehive or some other look that’s hard to pull off. If you have short hair and your hair looks fab all the time like Halle Berry - well then you have no worries and you will look stunning at that special event. Earrings: Remember, the more you pull back or pull up your hair, the longer should be your earring. Just experiment with all types of varieties such as drops, hoops and studs and see what looks best on your outfit. goes with anything and in many ways an LBD is like a blank canvas. It can look subtle paired with a neutral jacket, or ultra-glamorous on its own with chunky earrings, a bag, shoes and a belt studded with jewel toned rhinestones. Wear it with pearls for a ladylike look. That little black dress is like a chameleon. It switches from day to night, from demure to sexy with a switch of accessories.
Don’t dress your age… The pitfall to dressing for special occasions is that women on either end of the age spectrum look wrong if they dress their age: Over 40-women can take a cue from Jane Fonda and stick with soft, modern hair (stiff updos look frumpy on mature women) and updated dresses. That doesn’t mean they have to dress too young by flaunting ridiculous oversized tattoos or wear microminis. It does mean that the dress should show some skin; even it’s only a peek of a shoulder or an arm. Long sleeves, long dresses and high necklines age every woman.
Be creative and individual… Sarah Jessica Parker forges her own style trail. Whether she’s experimenting with placement of priceless brooches or trying out an elaborate new updo, SJP always looks like she’s having fun.
Remember to be creative but always follow your own style and personality: that’s the secret to looking gorgeous. The most important tip? Have a blast and keep in mind that getting ready is always the best part, so savour every moment!
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Bursitis A
A rather harmless but very painful inflammation
bursa is a soft tissue bag filled with a little bit of liquid, turning it into a mini- cushion. This type of cushion is located in all the areas where a tendon has to be protected, e.g. from a sharp bony edge. There are several anatomical points where a tendon has to glide over a bone. This is causing a permanent pressure on the tendon and scratches on it with every single movement. The continuous tension and repetitive movement over many years can cause serious damage to the tendon which could even result in a rupture of this tendon if the bursa failed to protect it.
The liquid-filled soft tissue bag lays on the bony surface beneath the tendon that needs to be protected. Liquids cannot be compressed, which means that even a very small amount of fluid would be enough to withstand even high pressure (the basic principal of any hydraulic system). These bags (plural: bursae) a situated in many different anatomical locations in the body. Practically every major joint has one or more tendons that has to glide over it to move the joint, and these tendons therefore need to be protected from the stretching and pressure forces affecting it. Bursae are also found around tendons where they have to glide through tight areas such as a tunnel. If a bursa gets inflamed it is called a bursitis (Greek ending -itis for inflammation). Basically everybody can get a bursitis, including adolescents or children. The most frequent reason to get an inflammation of a bursa is overuse or misuse, although diseases that affect the soft tissue can contribute to the development of this type of inflammation. The most common diseases are rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, psoriasis, gout and alcoholism. The symptoms of a bursitis are
sharp pain on using the affected joint or putting prolonged local pressure on it. The inflamed area might also feel warm in comparison with the same area of the opposite side; it might look red and seem to be swollen. When getting worse, the inflamed bursa might hurt on resting, even during the night. The discomfort can change into a throbbing pain and the pain may even radiate into the neighbouring joint. The most often affected areas are the bursa just beneath the shoulder (subacromial), at the back of the elbow (olecranon), laterally at the top of the thigh bone (femoral trochanter) and just below the knee cap (subpatellar). The treatment of the inflammation of the bursa in the early stages (dull ache, pain only on movement or pressure) is local application of anti-inflammatory gels and ice, trying to rest the joint as much as possible and, if needed, taking anti-inflammatory medication. Ultrasound treatment might also be helpful at this stage. If advanced to the more chronic stage (sharp pain on movement, pain at night, swelling, throbbing‌) direct injections of the inflamed bursa with cortisone would be the next step, sometimes even supported by immobilisation in a splint. If the symptoms continue, the surgical removal of the chronically inflamed bursa would be indicated. This would be a day case surgery, allowing full range of movement of the joint after the surgery as pain allows and return to normal daily activity within two weeks, including sports. For any further questions regarding bursitis 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 30 costa life
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Why is cervical screening so important in women's health… A Cervical Smear test is an important part of maintaining health for all women who have ever been sexually active. Some women may find the smear test uncomfortable or embarrassing and so may put off having one. This examination only takes a few minutes and could save your life.
Annual smear tests reduce your risk of Cervical Cancer by 92% In the UK alone it is estimated to save 1000 lives each year 80-90% of abnormalities are detected through regular smear tests, and can be treated early to Prevent Cancer.
What is the Bowen Technique (BOWTECH)…
Male cancers…
Developed in the 1950’s by the late Tom Bowen in Geelong, Australia.
Do you know what they are and how to prevent them.
Bowen became a celebrated therapist, regularly treating 13,000 patients a year according to Australian statistics. After his death in 1982 Bowtech began to be taught in several continents. The treatment is a series of gentle moves over specific muscles and tendons, no oils are used and can be carried out through light clothing. Trials are currently underway in some U.K. hospitals. Bowtech is so gentle that it is used on the newborn to the elderly. Some of the conditions that respond well are sports injuries such as tennis or golf elbow, whiplash, back pain and sciatica, respiratory conditions such as hay fever, chronic viral fatigue syndrome and M.E. Even long standing problems may be alleviated or eased. There are many theories as to how Bowtech works but none completely explain its holistic effect. Bowtech is not manipulation or massage and is not invasive but encourages a gentle response from the body’s own resources to heal itself, with no side effects from drugs. The body has frequencies as with noise, light, electricity, with use these need retuning every so often like a musical instrument. The muscles relax which in turn allow healing to commence. The Bowen Association U.K. is a member of the British Complimentary Medicine Association. All therapists must be trained in anatomy and physiology to ITBC standards and is required by the Bowen Association to complete postgraduate training each year. All these stipulations are possible to verify by sight of certificates. Animals also benefit from this therapy, with a special therapy devised for horses, called Equine Muscle Release. Visit the Bowen website to find a practitioner world-wide and further information. www.bowen-technique.co.uk Available at Clinica Medicare Tel: 952 83 57 76
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The two main preventable cancers in men are TESTICULAR and PROSTATE Cancer. Early recognition means 90% of these are treatable and curable Men generally tend to lack the knowledge to recognize these cancers, and are reluctant to seek help and advice Each year in the UK 134000 men are diagnosed with cancer, that’s ONE in THREE!! After lung cancer, Prostate is the second biggest, of which 85% of deaths occur in men over 70 years of age. It is very rare to die from Testicular Cancer, although it is the most common form of cancer in men aged 15 - 45 years, if you are pro active about any signs.
So: What can you do? Self Examination is the best way to be preventative, to look for signs such as; Any lumps, sores or growths Enlarged Testicles Pain or discomfort Aching in the Lower abdomen or groin area A heavy feeling in the Scrotum (sac) Hardening of testicles Bleeding-Unusual discharge from Penis Sometimes the cancer could be related to Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) a sexually transmitted disease that goes untreated.
So what can we do to help? We can advise you on correct self examination technique We can examine you; take baseline measurements, and Bloods to test for raised levels You can speak to a Male Nurse in confidence about any worries you may have We can check for Sexually Transmitted diseases We can advise you on genetics, lifestyle changes; i.e. smoking So for 10 -15 minutes of your time, a visit to the clinic could save your life, and prevent any further risks. Book now or telephone for further advice. Written by Lisa Hahn, Nurse Consultant Clinica Medicare, RGN, Dip HV, Bsc Community nursing.
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Biostimulationbrought to you by Dr. Potdevin, Cosmedica. It is increasingly common these days for people to take advantage of cosmetic medicine and surgery. There is a new approach in cosmetic medicine which is at the very leading edge of progress, something that we call biostimulation. This technique is a cosmetic procedure - it respects the curves and fullness of the anatomy within the limits of its possibilities - and above all, it is non-invasive. Just a few sessions of biostimulation can restore a fresh, youthful appearance. It is quite possible to make a face look younger without needing to make use of various serious surgical procedures under general anaesthetic with all the drawbacks that that involves - coupled with major traumatic scarring, both psychological and aesthetic.
What is involved in a session of biostimulation First of all, the doctor removes some fat-rich cells from the patient's buttocks. To do this, he applies a little local anaesthetic where the cells are to be drawn and uses a ‘mini incision’ to suck out enough mixed cells, corresponding to the subcutaneous tissues. This harvest will be directly injected under the skin of the face, without the addition of any chemical products whatsoever. This technique leaves no scars and at worst, a few small bruises at the injection sites.
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The pain is minimal and the benefit of this type of procedure is the low level of rejection, since it uses the patient's own body cells. This is also known as an ‘autologous graft’. This technique allows the doctor - who has a perfect understanding of the process of skin ageing and in addition approaches the work in an artistic way - to restore the curves and fullness to a face which is gaunt or careworn, or which has been marked by the passage of time. The doctor next draws two tubes of blood from the patient. These tubes are centrifuged to separate out the plasma, (which is rich in platelets and thus in growth factors), from the rest of the blood. This plasma will then be directly injected via micro-injections into the surface layers of the skin on the face. This is done in full compliance with all the rules on hygiene, asepsis and sterility and without any unnecessary manipulation or the addition of any foreign or synthetic products. This session of micro-injections is followed by the application of a cold mask (cryotherapy) to soothe the skin, which has been somewhat stressed during this session. The final stage in this completely full treatment is a session of ‘electromagnetic vibrations’, which will regulate the exchanges between the newly injected cells and the host cells. This final treatment is entirely painless and actually even produces a relaxing effect on both the skin of the face and the general well-being of the patient! To round off this treatment, it is also possible to apply a little local anaesthetic and add some dissolvable suspension sutres. This technique is carried out in the operating theatre for sterility reasons. It causes little pain and delivers very good results in the days ahead and lasts a considerable length of time. These sutures are slipped in under the skin and by following the curves of the face, they give the effect of a facelift, but WITHOUT surgery.
‘‘I can recommend Paula Monaghan whole-heartedly. She and her team have always been very responsive, reliable and best of all, the furniture she has selected for my apartment, is nice, fits the space properly, and helps make my apartment more rentable. I will continue to use Paula’s services as I add additional furnishings, to keep the ‘‘look’’ consistent, but more importantly because of the quality work she and her team have provided.’’ Kevin Platz Cologne, Germany
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G.N. ELECTRICAL NEW INSTALLATIONS REWIRES AND UPGRADES LOW VOLTAGE LIGHTING FIBER OPTIC CEILINGS COLOUR CHANGING LED FITTINGS WIRELESS SWITCHING SYSTEMS SECURITY LIGHTING GARDEN LIGHTING DESIGNED AND INSTALLED USING SAFE 12-VOLT SYSTEMS AND HIGH QUALITY FITTINGS
FULLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICITY BOARD ELECTRICIANS WITH OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE TEL 952 426 287 MOBILE 659945152 E-MAIL gary.new@natural-lighting.net
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THE ‘‘HOW TO’’ GUIDE TO ECLECTIC LIVING......
As a new feature to Costa Life magazine, Interior Designer Paula Monaghan of Paula Monaghan Interiors gives you her inspirational ideas on Eclectic living.
W
ith ever-changing trends, keeping your home interior up to date can be costly, and do you really want to throw away that fantastic side table that has been in the family for years? Well, why not be inspired by the whimsical glamour of eclectic living for a warm lived-in look.
Relaxed moods and flea market flavour is the motivation for this enchanting look - an eclectic design isn’t necessarily a hotchpotch of furnishings but a personal and purposeful mixing and matching of pieces and colour. It’s a way to incorporate your family antiques and trendy new pieces under one roof while keeping a unified look. An eclectic look comes from the successful combination of a lot of different styles, blending the old with the new, the classic with the contemporary, the wild with the tame. The key to making it all work is a smooth and balanced layering, one piece working with another. Paula Monaghan Interiors……Steps to get you on your way
Recycle Your Resources As you define your new look, try to incorporate what you already have, from furniture to fabrics. This not only will save you time and money, but also will work with elements you already know and love. For example, one of the more expensive items of furniture to change in your home is the dining table and chairs. Compromise by keeping your existing table and changing the chairs: adding new chairs around an old table and a new display can give a great look at half the price.
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Choose a Unifying Element You need to think of the room as a whole, making sure that all the contents feel as though they belong together. As you blend different components in your space, a recurring element like a colour or a shape will help to bridge all the differences and give a smooth transition between styles.
Accessorise with attitude Nothing helps to define your style more than your accessories. So don’t just display them - feature them. Be bold and showcase the things that you love, ie add positive new colours and fabrics to accent your existing sofa.
Be Unique Hunt in your local charity shops and vintage stores… and don’t forget, if something is a little worn and rough around the edges it can add to its appeal
Designers Secret You may not be able to rearrange your furniture because of limited space. But no matter what the size or shape of your room, you can move your accessories around every once and awhile. It will give a fresh look and perspective, without buying anything new.
Have Gumption Being eclectic means not getting stuck in one design style or period, but using your own ideas and being creative and gutsy about putting things together that you like and making use of the best of all possible designs.
Be Creative Customise pieces of furniture that have been neglected or may need modernising. Go to local fabric shops and maybe re-cover an old stool in
a modern fabric. Take an old ornate gilt mirror and carefully mask it off and spray or paint in a bright colour. Upholster a modern shape headboard in an older fabric. Layer fabrics of printed silk to create an atmosphere of faded grandeur. Choose large printed wallpapers and a palette of aged metallic, warm neutrals to set a rich backdrop. Lastly, introduce antique inspired accessories like a crystal chandelier or a vintage looking mirror to complete an eclectic look.
Where do I start? With the choices available, starting a project can seem a bit intimidating. Like all successful projects, you need a plan before you start. Consider your objectives: do you want to add a new piece of furniture or redo a whole room? Rather than getting bogged down with reviewing endless possible improvements, let’s focus on the following four areas that yield impressive results:
Paint Painting a room is one of the easiest but most impressive changes you can make. You can make a small room look larger with lighter colours. You can also make a smaller apartment look larger by tying its rooms together with a lighter colour. Conversely, you can make a large room more intimate by using darker colours. A splash of colour can brighten a drab space. Have you a favourite rug or piece of furniture? Then you can use this as the basis of your decor and select a paint colour that complements it.
How to paint like a professional Select one or two dominant colours for your room. While the choice of paint colours is up to you, you can get the best results by ensuring that you: Don’t skimp on preparation. Actually painting the room is the final step. The time you spend getting your room ready to paint will reward you with a much better finished look. Don’t paint over dirt. Begin by washing the walls and ceiling; sponge the room with clear water when you are finished. Don’t skip this step, because you will be amazed at how much grime comes off from clean-looking walls. Once the walls are clean, fill nail holes and any imperfections with drywall patching compound. Fill the nicks and scratches; let dry, then sand smooth. Always prime the areas you have patched before painting, otherwise the areas will show through as dull spots. Remove or cover all furniture with drop cloths. Cover your floors and any baseboard trim before starting.
Rugs A new rug represents one of the best home decor purchases you can make. Rugs come in a multitude of styles, fabrics, and colours. You can use them to brighten a room, accent your furniture, or provide a lively contrast to the primary decorating theme. Rugs work well in living rooms of course, but also in bedrooms, halls, even bathrooms. They give great warmth and depth to a room, especially in Spain as most floors are marble or tiled.
Furniture Furniture makes a big decor statement in a room. Casual or elegant, bold or subtle, there’s nothing like the right pieces to set a room off. Use existing pieces and add new trendy pieces to complement your new look.
Lamps Use lighting to bring a room alive; consider the beauty of a pool of light in a room, adding mood and elegance.
One of the best ways to make a lighting decor statement is through a combination of floor and table lamps. Lamps represent your best lighting value because they require no wiring alterations to your home and because they can be moved from room to room and from house to house. You can add or take away focus from different parts of a room, according to your decorating scheme. Whatever the scope of your project, be bold, take chances, and express yourself. If you’ve always wanted a leopard skin wall…..do it! Our showroom is open to the public and you can always pop in for a coffee and have a chat with Paula to get her expert opinion on your ideas.
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Unbeatable value 7 days a week Curtains bedding fabrics towels cushions throws blinds headboards tracks poles Mon - fri 10 - 6pm - Sat - sun 10 - 2pm A huge selection of ready to hang curtains - or if you prefer, take advantage of our make up service. Hundreds of rolls of designer fabrics. In house measuring - fitting - make up
STOP PRESS EYELET CURTAINS
15 euros a pair !! A FANTASTIC RANGE OF DESIGNER CURTAINS LIMITED STOCK only
Tel 952 582 555 AVNDA. SANTA AMALIA 6, FUENGIROLA
DRAIN & LEAK SOLUTIONS S.L. The UK’s leading fitted furniture now available in Spain
Fully Fitted Wardrobes & co-ordinated Furniture Sliding Doors Walk-in Dressing Rooms Home Office
For a free no obligation in home design consultation, call
952 592 868
or
652 351 612
High pressure water jetting Drain tracing, C.C.T.V. Ceptic Tank problems and installations Bath, sinks and toilets unblocked Leak detection and repairs
www.hammonds-uk.com
Fully Qualified, Fully Legal No Call Out Fee
Tel.: 951 310 111 DISPLAY SHOWROOM AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING 48 costa life
Mobile: 651 111 005
www.drainandleak.com
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Finca Tropical Coin
Euros 700,000 Contact: fincatropical@hotmail.co.uk Finca Tropical is a lovely, traditional style finca with 4 bedrooms and private pool together with its own secluded two bedroom guest villa, Villa Maria, (also with its own pool). Both houses enjoy a wonderfully peaceful semi rural location set amidst their own avocado grove on the outskirts of the typical Andalucian ‘white’ town of Coin occupying a total plot of 7055sq.metres. Malaga airport is just 30 minutes drive and the coastal resorts of Marbella and Puerto Banus just 25 minutes away. The main house has 3 double bedrooms plus a 4th double size bedroom with ensuite shower in a separate annex adjacent to the house. 1 bathroom plus a shower room, large sitting room with log fire and dining area leading to sun room. Well equipped family size kitchen. Internet access, satellite TV. Private, well maintained gardens with a wealth of fruit trees plus magnificent views across open countryside from both houses. Large 6.5m x 4m heated swimming pool with Finca Tropical above Villa Maria non-slip pool surround and pool side shower. Double garage, ample parking space, large outside storage building. Gated driveway, outside kitchen and bbq area plus ball games area. Total floor area approximately 150 sq.m.
Authentic, Old Farmhouse (Álora)
Built: 135 m² Land: 20.000 m² 3 bedrooms · 1 bathroom Restored with great care Pool · Own well · Nice views Ample kitchen + living room Storage room with 30 sqm Priced to sell · 275.000€ € Charming, rustic Townhouse (Casarabonela)
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Delightful Country Villa (Casarabonela)
Built: 360 m² Land: 130.000 m² 6 beds · 4 baths · Built 2004 to high standard · Pool 10x5 Central heating · Best views Reservoir with 500.000 l Special Prop. w."wow" factor 1.090.000 € €
Outstanding Country Estate (Tolox)
Built: 726 m² Land: 14.000 m² Main house + 5 Apartments 11 beds. · 10 baths · Built 2003 in "swiss quality" · Pool 10m x 5m · Central heating · Located in area of great beauty · Views. 1.650.000 € € Built: 130 m² Land: 150 m² 3 beds · 2 baths · Renovated 2004 · Semi-detached · Patio w. stone house · Nice, uninterrupted views even from ground floor+patio · Excellent value for money…. 118.000 €€
Villa Maria nestles against the hillside just 100 metres from the main house separated by a thick band of avocado trees. Beautiful 5m x 8m private pool and sun terrace. Lovely shaded dining area on pool terrace plus roof terrace with magnificent views. Two double size bedrooms, good size kitchen, living/dining area. Ample parking space and own gated drive. Total floor area 56 sq.m. Finca Tropical represents an ideal investment opportunity either through holiday rentals or for someone looking for a ‘‘place in the sun’’ where guests can be accommodated in their own separate guest villa. The avocado grove yields good crops which can generate an annual income of several thousand euros. For further details please contact; Dr Simon Petrides at fincatropical@hotmail.co.uk
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Cerros del Aguila
Villa
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495,000€
3 bed, 3 bath, 690m² plot, 160m² build, This is a very nice private villa, with a separate guest apartment, private pool, views, central heating and communal areas.
Ref: 323
Mijas
Finca
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Ref: 304
Elviria
Villa
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550,000€
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Sierrezuela
Villa
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445,900€
4 bed, 4 bath, 550m² plot, 217m² build.
5 bed, 3 bath, 330m² plot. 290m² build,
Guest apartment, air conditioning, renovated with nice Views.
Own pool and garden, separate guest apartment, everything new, very stylish, car port, Great views, lots of starage.
Ref: 339
995,000€
Atico central Fuengirola
-
215,500€
3 bed, 120m² Build. with garage, not far from the beach, with nice views to the mountains.+ A/C fitted kitchen etc. Price Just 215.500€ € Bargain.
3 bed, 3 bath, 4500m² plot, 528m² build, Double garage, Horse riding course, horse boxes, pool, sea views, 2 separate apartments, 4,5km from Fuengirola.
RE 50DU ,0 CE 00 D €€ T
O
Ref: 251
-
Calahonda
-
Penthouse Duplex
295,000€
-
Ref: 313
Las Lagunas
-
Apartment - 148,600€
1 bed, 44m² build Close to everything, close to McDonald’s, fitted kitchen, brand new ready to go in.
3 bed, 2 bath, 200m² build, 80m² terrace. Breathtaking views, 2 communal pools, A/C, fireplace, marble floors, various terraces, sunny all day long… This is a very good price, a must see.
Penthouse Duplex 295,000€ € R PE TA SUFER O
Ref 328
Riviera del Sol
Apt. - 168,500€
2 bed, 90m² constr., 20m² terrace + large private garden/patio Communal pool and garden, views, needs a little personal touch.
Ref: 291
-
Mijas Costa
-
Atico
-
290,000€
3 bed, 2 bath, 147m² build, 45m² terrace, Communal pool and gardens, tennis, close to beach, ideal for holiday renting. Nice views.
Ref: 311
Fuengirola
Apartment
-
178,000€
2 bed, 90m² build, 10m² terrace Close to all shops and transport, garage, lift, 3 years old.
T&C * This offer only applies to direct clients, without intermediates.
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Mansion House Conveyancing & Legal Services Mansion House specialises in property conveyancing & legal services on the coast & inland areas. If you are looking to buy a property in Spain you need a qualified independent conveyancer, to ensure that the property you are buying meets all the necessary legalities. Our Conveyancing services include in depth background searches on properties to ensure their legality, assisting with mortgage applications, arranging surveys and topographical reports for plot measurements and boundaries, as well as post-purchase utility bills change over.
SPECIAL OFFER FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION & 20% REDUCTION IN CONVEYANCING FEES Legal Administration Services: - NIE numbers* 50€ - Residencia* 50€ - Vehicle registration 130€ - Vehicle name transfers 70€ - Driving License exchange 60€ - E121 Social Security Registration 80€ - Self Employment Registration 150€ - Wills 100€ Professional Interpeting & Translation Services also available Offices in FUENGIROLA & CARTAMA Contact our friendly bilingual staff for information or an appointment on:
Tel. 952 47 28 72 Mobile: 653 172 264 *Normal fees 1% of property price. All prices exclude state charges & taxes.
Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 9.00am - 6.00pm ~ Friday only 9.00am - 2.00pm
54 costa life
costa HOMES >>
specializing in
Fincas Country Villas Townhouses Cortijos Ruins Plots
952 498 454 mobile: 609 454 409
AP204: Spacious semi-detached house and a two-storey apartment only 5 minutes from Alora. The house is entered through an enclosed Andalucian patio and offers a large dining room, fitted kitchen, 3 bedrooms one of them en-suite. Two of the three bedrooms have access to an enclosed garden/courtyard. Gateway leading to approx. 4,000 m2 of land planted with oranges, lemons, satsumas, bananas, figs. Large drive with plenty of parking space. 150 m2 built. The apartment provides an entrance hall, large bedroom and a bathroom all unfinished. Upstairs there is a large L-shaped lounge/kitchen finished and tiled with access to tiled terrace with fantastic views. Approx. 70 m2. Mains electricity. Mains and irrigation water, land line telephone and broadband connection.
PRICE: 215,000€ €
AP220: Village house in hamlet of El Chorro in need of complete renovation. This property would be ideal for anyone interested in climbing or providing acommodation for climbers. The property offers 5 rooms and attic space. Build are of 90m2 on a plot of 115m2.The location of this property is close to the lakes and to local shops, bars and restaurant. Also close to the station of El Chorro.
PRICE: 54,210€ €
tel:
enquiries@aloraproperties.com www.aloraproperties.com Plaza Fuente Arriba s/n Alora
AP426: Immaculate fully restored village house in Casarabonela retaining much of its charm. The main house is on 3 levels and is 110 m2 built. On street level there is a dining room and kitchen. On the first floor there is a bathroom, 1 bedroom and a lounge. The upper level comprises of a 2nd bedroom and access to a glorious 41 m2 roof terrace with stunning views down the valley to Malaga. There is also a separate 20 m2 guest studio which has a kitchen/bedroom/sitting area and a bathroom. Partly furnished. Separate workshop. Air-con hot/cold. Mains water, electricity and telephone.
PRICE: 159,000€ €
AP454: A tastefully restored country property close to the village of Zalea. The property has 6,700m2 of semi flat land planted with various fruit trees and a pleasant garden. The main house has a farmhouse kitchen with open fireplace, lounge with wood burning stove, 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. There is also a separate guest apartment with private terrace, kitchen, split level bedroom, sitting room and a wet room. Including terraces the property is 300m2 built. An 8mx4m swimming pool with Roman steps and surrounding terrace. There are further outbuildings ripe for development. Electricity, water is supplied by a well, irrigation water and a 16,000 litre water storage facility. Satellite TV, telephone and internet connection. Ideal for equestrian pursuits or a small rural business.
PRICE: 420,000€ €
RESTORED CORTIJO WITH GUEST COTTAGE & SWIMMING POOL - MONTEFRIO, GRANADA Beautifully restored, tradtional cortijo with 5 double bedrooms plus seperate 3 bedroom cottage and swimming pool. - Well presented throughout with lots of character and many original features. MAIN HOUSE: 5 Double bedrooms (some with beamed ceilings), Fitted & tiled bathrooms, Lounge has fireplace with log burner installed, & Andalucian style kitchen / diner. COTTAGE: 3 Double bedrooms (2 with patio doors to gardens & pool area), Lounge has fireplace with log burner installed, Fitted & tiled bathroom. Stone floors throughout. OUTBUILDINGS: Second fitted & tiled kitchen / diner with fireplace, Pool side fitted & tiled bathroom, Plus 3 outbuildings which could convert for further accommodation / workshop / garage etc. OUTSIDE: Swimming pool with terrace area, flat fenced gardens with numerous fruit trees (including fig, olive & nispero), shaded courtyard area, private entrance with double gates, road access. POSITION: Peaceful, coutryside location with country & mountain views
Sale Price: 279,000 €
Phone: 627 834 839 www.acefm.info costa life 55
PROPERTY OF THE MONTH 1,260,000 €€
MACP 433 Alhaurin El Grande
BUILD: 475M2, PLOT 1,500M2, BEDS: 4/5, BATHS: 2 EN-SUITE, 1 FAMILY & 2 TOILETS. Rarely does a house come on the market that has that genuine ‘‘wow’’ factor. This beautiful designer built and designer fitted out property has it all. From that magnificent central spiral marble staircase with its unique balustrade, its fabulous awe inspiring kitchen that takes up virtually all of one of the three floors of this property. This is a truly rare home that needs to be seen to be believed. Set in wonderful grounds the whole house has had no expense spared in its fixtures and fittings. The main living floor has a central fireplace magnificent views and masses of space. It is impossible to fully describe this property it genuinely needs to be seen to be appreciated. The top floor is the bedroom floor with 4 bedrooms 2 en-suite. Extra guest bedroom on first floor. The huge living area that takes up most of first floor level with feature central marble staircase to upper floor. Designer fireplace arched double glazed windows. Within the superb garden there are gorgeous plants with tropical trees, luxury Royal Astro Turf, and beautiful Thai pagoda's, pool and terrace areas. Varied sunbathing and shade areas for all seasons. Fabulous first floor terrace that overlooks the grounds perfect for that evening drink with guests. A property not to be missed.
R
ED EDUC
120,0
00 €
MAAP-420 Alhaurin El Grande
C REDU
125,000 € €
Build 70 sq m 1 bedroom Fantastic value apartment in central Alhaurin with good parking. New luxury first floor very spacious one bedroom apartment in the finest part of town. The apartment is finished with best quality marble floors and fully fitted wardrobes, well designed chic modern fully fitted kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. A fantastic opportunity to purchase a lovely classy apartment at an affordable price.
ED 67
5,000
€
MACP-390 SOLE AGENCY Alhaurin El Grande
C REDU
749,000€ €
Build 242, Plot 1,925 Beds 5/6, Baths 4 Rarely is a property of this quality and location on the market. Very good sized country house in superb location backing straight on the Sierra de Mijas forest area. Perfect for dog walks etc onto mountains. This property has very good sized rooms and 4 bedrooms in main part. Across the courtyard is a completely self contained bedroom with en suite facilities; attached to this is bedroom 6 currently used as study but easily adaptable to form a sitting room and creating a self contained guest apartment. Beautiful gardens, wonderful pool/bar area in a quiet and lovely location with superb views.
ED 33
5,000
€
MACP-394 SOLE AGENCY Alhaurin el Grande
359,000€ €
Build 120, possible to build up another level, Plot 2,500m2, Beds 3, Baths, 2 A wonderful country house very close to the town with fantastic access. This property is in a very peaceful location with absolutely lovely views. There is the added bonus of doubling the size of this property by building up another level making the property 240m2. The garden is very long and pretty with a nice terrace area. A great property in a fantastic sought after location.
CED REDU
725,0
00 €
MACP-385
CE REDU
D 199
,000 €
MATH-404 Alhaurin El Grande
Build 180 sq m Beds 5 Baths 2 Spacious 5 bed roomed townhouse situated in a fantastic location within walking distance to the town centre. Great investment opportunity for anybody wanting to improve on this existing property which is in good condition but with some slight improvements has the potential to be a stunning townhouse.
R
ED EDUC
285,0
MACP-333 Coin
D 45,0
00 €
65,000 € €
ED EDUC
960,0
00 €
MACP-331 Alhaurin El Grande
A superb property in a tranquil location, yet only a short distance from Alhaurin and only 15 minutes from Malaga airport. The property is set in 12000 sq metre gardens and fruit orchards, large enough to ensure privacy but not so much that all your time will be spent in upkeep! This is the ideal country residence, a beautiful main house but with a guest cottage as well.
00 €
495,000€ €
Build: 195m2, Plot: 3000m2, Beds: 5, Baths: 3 A fine country property. If you enjoy the beautiful peace and quite of the Spanish countryside then STOP LOOKING this has just that. A large property on one level with a huge entertaining kitchen which leads out onto the terrace that over looks the swimming pool. What make this property special is its privacy, lovely views and gorgeous out side space. There are good size outbuildings which can be converted into guest accommodation. A superb property.
399,0
00 €
MACP-400 Alhaurin El Grande
425,000€ €
Build 135m2, Plot 2,750m2, Bed 3/4 or study, Baths 3 A lovely modern country property, only 5 minutes from Lauro golf and 5 minutes drives to Alhaurin el Grande town. This house is very spacious, with a great out side private pool that looks over the garden with mature trees and pleasant views. The villa is fully fenced, electric gates and in a peaceful location. Great value for money.
CED REDU
1,195,000€ €
435,0
MACP-416 Alhaurin El Grande
CED REDU
Build 50 sq m 1 bed studio apartment New Luxury studio or office for sale located in the best part of Alhaurin town next to all amenities. The studios have all been finished to a very high standard, with marble floors, solid oak doors, beautiful tiles in the kitchen and bathrooms. Some have small charming court yards with water features.
R
Finca, Good Position, Fitted Kitchen, Carport, Garden: Private, Facing south views of Mountains, Air conditioning Hot/Cold, Built to High Standards, Charming Property, Close to all Amenities, Condition - Good, Fireplace, Fitted Kitchen, Fitted Wardrobes, Good Rental Potential, Independent Studio, Living room with fireplace, Quality Residence, Sought After Area.
375,000 € €
MAAP-402 Alhaurin El Grande
00 €
299,000€ €
CED REDU
Build 143 sq m Plot 600 sq m 3 bedroom 3 bath Detached single storey Villa . Large Lounge with cathedral ceiling and chimney. Court yard patio to rear. Large covered porch to the front. Good size Kitchen. Off road parking. Preinstalled electrics for air-conditioning. Double-glazed windows and doors with persianas. Fully walled & fenced plot. Stunning views towards Coin & the mountains.
CE REDU
209,000 €€
,000 €
MACP 412 Coin
725,000€ €
Superbly finished country property that has recently been totally reformed. All rooms completely redecorated, tiled etc to a very high standard. This a 4 bedroom property with very unique features. Each bedroom if you so wished could be separate from the main part of house or all used as very spacious family home. This is no square box - it is a property with masses of character with lots of unexpected nooks and crannies. Pool, terraces, bank valuation higher than selling price.
CE REDU
D 368
635,0
MACP-424 Guaro
00 €
640,000 € €
Build 180 sq m Plot 12,000 sq m Beds 3 plus I guest accommodation Fantastic country villa with feature split level open plan living room and separate dining room. 3 bedrooms (one currently used as a study) with a superb self contained one bedroom guest cottage in separate building. There is full central heating plus air con. This villa is located in one of best parts of Guaro, in the country yet near enough to the town to enjoy its typically Spanish atmosphere. Guaro's "Luna Mora" celebrations in September are world renowned and form a major attraction in the area. The villa has an excellent south facing pool covered BBQ area and benefits from fabulous views across the surrounding area from its dominant hilltop position.
CE REDU
D 590
,000 €
MARP-371 Alhaurin El Grande - Rural
CE REDU
595,000€ €
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. Finally absolutely superb views. Priced realistically to sell, a must to add to your viewing list.
R
ED EDUC
1,399
995,000 €€
C REDU
ED 65
1,000
990,000 €€
2,550
MACP-209
,000 €
525,000 €€
9,000
2
Build: 170m / 14 X 3 Guest Accom, Plot: 1,269m , Beds: 4/5, Bath 2/Half An absolutely exquisite villa on a popular urbanization. This beautiful villa is fully fenced with a nice drive and electric gates. The property comes with heating, air-conditioning double glazing and is gorgeously decorated throughout .The property is spilt into two levels with both having 2 bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms, and could be converted into a large family home This property also benefits from a large double garage and workshop and a wonderful pool and B-B-Q area with an easily maintainable garden.
D 210
,000 €
MAAP-393 Alhaurin El Grande
Build: 110m2, Beds: 2/ Sleeps 5, Baths: 2 A Luxury fully air-con/heating, two bedroom front-line golf apartment situated within the prestigious Alhaurin Golf Complex. There is a great club house to enjoy, which offers all day dining and a comfortable lounge & bar. The apartment also has an entry phone, remote control for gates and garage, alarms and a lift. Alhaurin Golf complex is situated in the hills of the Mijas Mountains and surrounded by pine forests and countryside.
649,0
MACP-381 Coin
ED 49
00 €
Build: 300m2, Plot: 12,000m2, Beds: 2 Baths: 3 Magnificent country villa with many Andalucian features including Romano brick arches and wooden beams in most rooms. In construction, but near completion, it is a short drive from Coin, with 360-degree mountain views. The house 300sq.m built offers 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms and a cloakroom. It has pre installed, pipe work for central heating with radiators and air-conditioning in the bedrooms.
€
280,000€ €
Build: 180m2, Plus Guest Accom, Beds: 4, Baths: 3 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. The town is of Alhaurin is within walking distance and there is also a local bus which will also drive straight into the town centre. This is an enchanting villa really must be seen, new on the market and a great buy.
D 499
,000 €
MACP-214 Alhaurin de la Torre
950,000€ €
Build: 166m2, Plot: 4,750m2 Beds: 4, Baths: 2/Half A stunning villa, with permission to build another villa on the same plot of similar size. This lovely one level villa is totally beautiful though out. Every room is a dream to walk into; the vendors have finished this house with such elegance and style. The pool area is to the side of the property and offers spectacular views over the country side and mountains. There is also a pleasant seating area situated away from the house which is very private and tranquil. Air-condition and heating throughout.
CED REDU
249,500€ €
5,000
MACP-347 SOLE AGENCY Alhaurin El Grande
CE REDU
551,000€ €
,000 €
Build: 146M2, Plot: 600m2, Beds: 3, Bths: 2/Half A great opportunity to purchase this beautiful villa in a great location. It has a very light and airy feel to the property with an open ST floor hallway over looking the main entrance and an open wood burning fire place. Situated on the very popular urbanization, it is ideally located for Malaga airport and Marbella only 30mins away. A great buy.
C REDU
995,000€ €
D 450
MACP-261
€
2
CED REDU
Build: 700m2, Plot: 62,000m2, Beds: 5, Baths: 5 En-Suite. Two hundred years ago a farmhouse converted into a beautiful and secluded villa, on the boarders 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 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. Many other amazing features.
530,000€ €
MACP-282 Alhaurin de la Torre
CE REDU
Build: 179M2, Plot: 1,700m2, Beds: 6, Baths: 3 A beautiful country villa in a superb location, excellent condition, a fully self contained guest apartment that currently produces a proven income. Within 500 m walk of the beautiful forested Sierra de Mijas. All extremely well looked after and well decorated. Guest/Rental apartment:-145 sq m built area. Completely self contained. Currently used as holiday rental with proven income. Large lounge/dining room, 3 large bedrooms, bathroom, fully fitted kitchen, steps to terrace overlooking pool and 10 x 5 pool, 2 car size car port, extensive other parking, fully alarmed, electric gates.
CED REDU
ED 44
€
MACP - 160 Alhaurin de la Torre
CE REDU
Beautiful country Finca on the outskirts of Coin. 200 sq m 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, lounge, 2 conservatories, indoor patio, open reception area (can easily be converted to 4th bedroom). All doors and windows double glazed and with mosquito screens. Extensive outbuildings of 90 sq m approx, including large garage, storerooms and workshops. A feature of this property is its well tended tranquil gardens with views across the valley to Coin.
C REDU
Build: 438m2 Plot: 4,500m2 Beds: 6 Bths: 6 A Rustic style dwelling, but with all up to date facilities; built in the year 2000 (completed 2001) using the finest materials and quality craftsmanship. There are two (heated) swimming pools (joined by a water cascade), one of which is truly an infinity pool; they can be used separately or together. Extensive terraces and decking together with a complete outside summer kitchen and barbeque area, guest accommodation and a gym.
,000 €
MACP-388 Coin
,999 €
MACP-360 Voltocado
D 475
130,5
MAPB-250 Coin
00 €
360,000€ €
Plot in Coin. 10,000m2 with Permission to build a 2 bedroom almacen house of 65 m2 with an 8x4 pool. Fully approved plans and project, and ready for immediate construction. The land is very gently rolling fertile farmland, suitable for horses, with access for a normal car (no river beds or mountains to negotiate!)It is situated in a very peaceful and unspoilt area, approx 15 mins from the town. The plot is fully legal, and the escitura plans and permissions are available to prospective purchasers. Electricity has been applied for, and the land has been successfully Surveyed for water.
NE
W
MACP-436 Monda
NE
SOLE AGENT
635,000 €€
120 sq m Build, 4 bedrooms. A charismatic property with 360 degree views overlooking the unspoiled picturesque white village of Monda pueblo. This enchanting property, set in lush tropical gardens is situated perfectly on the outskirts of the village which is only a 5 minute walk away. The main house is all on one level with access to the wrap around covered terraces from every room. There is a huge covered roof terrace which could be converted into an extra level of living space doubling the size of the main house. The are two beautiful one bed roomed, self-contained casitas with own BBQ areas and roof terraces with charming views, independent of the main house. The vendors have for many years successfully rented one of the casita's to holiday makers.
NE
W
MACP-432 Alhaurin El Grande
327 sq m build 3 bedroom plus guest accom. New onto the market. The villa is an elevated position, which is perfect for the fantastic panoramic views of the countryside and mountains. The garden is truly magnificent, totally landscaped, with winding paths, hidden areas with a water feature, bridge and great palm tree's everywhere. The pool area is very individual, which a grand bar and outside kitchen area, fantastic for entertaining. The villa is very spacious with two bedrooms taking up all the second level and the remaining one on the ground level, which opens out onto one of the many the terraces.
NE
W
MACR-422 Ronda
990,000€ €
W
MACP-425 Alhaurin de la Torre
999,000 €€
349,000€ €
W
MACP-431 Coin
245,000€ €
W
MACP-423 Coin
Build: 180m2, Plot: 610m2 Beds: 6, Baths 2/half A perfect spacious property, with great views and close to all animates. This property is nicely divided into two sections 3 bedrooms, kitchen lounge on one level and repeated again on the lower level, perfect for guests or a huge family home. The garden is easily maintained, with a lovely swimming pool, seven seated Jacuzzi, sauna and bar area. This property has many added features and needs no further improvements, an ideal home to move straight into. A wonderful property.
W
MATH-426 Tolox
Build: Beds: 2, Baths: 1 A beautiful town house in a lovely location, perfect as a family home or for holiday lets. Spiral staircase to roof terrace Valley views Sale includes all furnishings. Great investment property, possibility to go up another level.
W
MACP-427 La Alqeuria/Alhaurin
599,000€ €
400 sq m 6 bedroom New on the market only renovated to very high standard a year ago. This property is on the outskirts of La Alqueria a village between the 2 Alhaurin's. This is a large family home with all the extras - full oil fired central heating, log burning stove, air con. Newly decorated and fitted out this is a superb home that needs to be viewed to fully appreciate. It is situated in a very quiet lane but still within 10 minutes of 2 major towns.
W
MACP-424 Guaro
635,000€ €
Build: 180m2, Plot: 12,000m2, Beds: 4, Baths: 3 Fantastic country villa with feature split level open plan living room and separate dining room. 3 bedrooms (one currently used as a study) with a superb self contained one bedroom guest cottage in separate building. There is full central heating plus air con. This villa is located in one of best parts of Guaro, in the country yet near enough to the town to enjoy its typically Spanish atmosphere. Guaro's "Luna Mora" celebrations in September are world renowned and form a major attraction in the area. The villa has an excellent south facing pool covered BBQ area and benefits from fabulous views across the surrounding area from its dominant hilltop position.
NE
99,000€ €
273,000 € €
120 sq m build 3 bedroom completely renovated 15 min from Marbella, the village of Monda lies in the foothills of the Sierra de las Nieves, its municipal area forming part of the natural park of the same name, with a surface area of 58 square kilometres and a population of 2000. It retains the hallmark of its Arabic past in the shape of its steep, narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses standing in the shadow of the castle, built on the ruins of the former Arabic fortress. A lovely town house completely reformed to high rustic standards, flagstone floors, wooden beamed ceilings, air-con, and wood burning stove, alarm and satellite.
NE
540,700€ €
W
MATH-434 Monda
NE
80 sq m Build 2 bedrooms RENOVATED FINCA OUTSKIRTS COÍN 10 minutes from Coin town centre If you enjoy the peace and quite of the countryside then this lovely little property is for you. Fantastic country views.
NE
Build: 256m2 + Garage + 90m2/Guest, Plot: 8,500m2, Beds: 7, Baths: 6 A superb country property near to La Alqueria, with guest accommodation within main house plus a completely separate and self contained 2 bedroom house with its own pool within the grounds. The main house is in excellent condition and benefits from al mod cons - full central heating and air conditioning. Beautiful fitted kitchen large lounge and dining area plus all those bedrooms and accompanying bathrooms. This will be ideal for a family home with enclosed but separate accommodation for visitors and the benefit of another house to use for guests or to let out.
NE
131 sq m build plus 62 sq m outbuildings 2/3 bedroom A fully fenced plot with a great a garden full of flowers. The main house at present has two bedrooms but was once a three bed and can easily be turned back. There is the option of converting the outbuilding into more accommodation or left as it is now a big work room.
NE
Build: 440m2, Plot: 18,700m2 Beds: 5 en-suit. A fantastic opportunity to purchase this small friendly and informal hotel runs as a family business. Situated in an area of great beauty with panoramic views over the Ronda Mountains and its spectacular sunsets. The hotel, built in a traditional Andalucian style, has five double rooms which all have a terrace or balcony overlooking the mountains. Surrounded by three Natural Parks, Arriadh Hotel makes an ideal base for a wide variety of activities for clients, including: horse-riding, nature walking, rock climbing mountain - biking and bird watching.
NE
MACP-435 SOLE AGENT Alhaurin el Grande
NE
895,000 €€
W
W
MACP-417 Alhaurin El Grande
389,000 €€
Build 120 sq m Plot 6000 sq m 4 bed 3 bath. SOLE AGENCY - REDUCED PRICE Well presented country Finca with a fabulous 12 x 5 metre pool complete with changing rooms, showers etc. Main property comprises 3 bedrooms, living room with log burner. Attached is a well presented single bedroom self contained guest apartment. Property in need of some modernisation to bring it up to its full potential.
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Costa Business Advice … Brought to you by David Fairweather from Bars in Spain SL
Is Running a Business in Spain right for you?
H
ow do you know if running your own business will be right for you?
Well you can never be 100% sure that starting your own business is the right move for you, but there are certain things you can do and certain questions you can ask to help you make the right decision. First of all, look at your personal situation. Thousands of Brits relocate to Spain every year, yet an estimated 30% decide that la Viva Espana is not for them and return home within two years. The costs involved with setting up your own business can be extremely high, and if you have just moved to Spain it might be sensible to postpone starting your business until you have settled in and decided you definitely want to stay! The majority of businesses fail when people rush into them. Research is essential. Speak to those who already run businesses similar to your own, research your location, look at the worse case scenarios and ask yourself what you would do if the worst was to happen. Imagine yourself running your business in five, ten, twenty years. Would you still be happy? Would there still be a market for your product? Have you considered the long term implications? Some people are natural employers and some are happier as employees. Some enjoy stress and commitment 24/7 and some prefer to switch off on a Friday night!! Running your own business is a full time commitment and you have to be sure your personality suits ‘being the boss’. The moral of the story is to look deep inside yourself and ask yourself if running a business is really for you. It might be that the business management side is right but the type of business you have chosen isn’t …the trick is to find something you are passionate about and more importantly will still be enjoying in years to come! We’ve never worked in the bar industry before but would love to buy our own bar. Do we need experience? The simple truth is that while experience is helpful, for some businesses it’s not a necessity. If you are planning on starting up in the building trade, beauty business or financial sector for example, it would be highly advisable to ensure you have training, expertise and indepth knowledge of your field. The bar industry however is an exception to the rule. Running a bar like any other business requires a strong degree of …. SELF DISCIPLINE. 60 costa life
Running a bar requires consistency with opening hours. The bar industry is all about continuity so if a customer walks past your bar, you need to be open. The food and drinks that are sold need to be consistent as well otherwise customers will not come back. No self discipline …no business. Many bars fail because their owners have lost motivation and given up. It is often said that most Brits jump on the plane without a clue as to what is really involved with running a business in Spain. They don’t know what questions to ask or who to ask them to. It’s not about previous experience; it’s about being fully prepared, researching, planning, implementing controls and good management. Most of our friends have started their own businesses using private funds, but we only have a small deposit. How easy (or difficult) is it to arrange a commercial mortgage in Spain? Commercial mortgages in Spain can be difficult to obtain but not impossible! It is true that a large number of new business owners finance their businesses themselves and will arrive in Spain having sold assets in the UK and in a strong position to make a cash purchase. Even raising 50 percent of the capital will give you an advantage if you need to apply for a commercial mortgage with a Spanish bank. It is also important to remember that banks will not lend money against leases, and especially bar and restaurant leases! However if you don’t have the means to raise the cash yourself, there are commercial mortgages available, but in order to secure one, you do need to seriously consider the type of business you will be running and choose your premises very carefully. Spanish banks look more favourably on clients who already have experience in the area they have chosen or in business in general. It is important to remember that commercial mortgages are granted to the individual…rather than the business. Therefore it is YOU who have to impress, more than your business idea or the premises you are hoping to buy. The bank will need to see evidence of your ability to run a business, so the more examples of past activities you can show, the better! Accounts will certainly help your case, and if there aren’t any accounts available for your new business, past accounts from previous businesses in the UK or Spain will definitely put another tick in your box. Finally ensure you have a concise business plan and have done as much research as possible into areas such as competition, potential clientele and expansion.
With no track record, it’s much harder to find a commercial mortgage in Spain. This is why the type of business is so important. For example if you are looking to buy a bar and have limited finances, you are much more likely to secure a loan on a freehold property than a leasehold property. The business premises you have found will also be judged on totally different criteria to a residential property and in business… location is critical. Make sure your premises are in an area with good communications and have access to road connections. Research similar businesses in the area and find out as much as you can about the type of business you are hoping to run. Commercial mortgages tend to be granted on a much more subjective basis and are dependent on the bank in question. There is a much greater variation in valuations than with a residential property which means there is a greater element of risk and luck! It is also often a case of not what you know.......but who! Banks are naturally more cautious when it comes to business mortgages, so the more commitment shown by you - both financially and in terms of planning - the better. The less risk the bank is seen to be taking, the more likely they are to grant you a loan. It is therefore often more difficult for those looking to purchase a start up to secure a business mortgage, as the less visible income you have to show, the harder it is to find a lender Other points to bear in mind if considering taking a commercial mortgage are that here in Spain, unlike in the UK, the interest rates are generally similar to residential mortgages, which is a plus! However the lending term will always be shorter. Some banks will specify that the business must be an SL company while others only offer commercial loans to residents. Most banks will offer you a commercial mortgage for up to 50% of the purchase price, but as a resident you might be eligible for a higher percentage loan. So whoever said it would be easy....was probably lying, but running a successful business can be very rewarding, especially here in Spain where we have the weather and the lifestyle potential to make the most of the rewards. Bars in Spain SL is a Franchised Real Estate Network throughout Spain offering business advice & information for anyone considering starting or purchasing a business or franchise in Spain. To find out more call 952 499 400 or visit www.barsinspain.com
DISAPPOINTED AND DISILLUSIONED? ou’ve done your best and everything has fallen apart and you’re thinking ‘What’s the use?’ Everything was going well and you were riding the crest of the wave and then it all came crashing down like a pack of cards. Does this describe you or someone you know? Perhaps you’ve gone into partnership with someone and all is not what it seemed to be. That partner in business has taken your money and disappeared. Or maybe your partner in life has found someone else and it’s all over. Disappointed and disillusioned! In this climate of uncertainty right now perhaps your normal business transactions are just not producing the results you expected. An opportunity to become depressed and discouraged! So what’s the answer? Where is the answer? Maybe you could try harder, put more energy into it. Might help a bit but still everything seems to be against you. Your world has fallen apart. What can you do? You try drowning your sorrows down at the Bar. You just keep drinking until reality fades away. But, no, that only lasts for a short time before harsh reality returns and the situation is right in front of you once again. Perhaps you could try another relationship, maybe that’s the answer….. but, no, the same problems keep surfacing. Where do we run? When you’ve tried everything else and it’s not working for you, why not turn to God? He is waiting for you to turn towards Him. Even if you think He doesn’t even exist, why not try anyway. What can you lose? Only your pride! ‘But’, I hear you say, ‘that’s only for people who need a crutch! Those poor weak souls who can’t cope, who desperately lean on their God.’ Well, if
you haven’t been able to sort your life out yourself so far, why not let God have a go? After all, He made you whether you believe it or not. Surely He knows exactly what makes you tick and He knows what adjustments need to be made. If your car breaks down, the garage mechanic can fix it. If your tooth hurts the dentist can fix it. When your life breaks down the Giver of Life knows how to fix it. ‘‘I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life’’ says Jesus, ‘‘I have come to give you abundant life….’’ ‘‘Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’’ The life of God is impossible to describe. Once we take hold of His life, our lives will never be the same. We have to let go of our old way and reach out to Him. If you were drowning in the sea, going down for the last time, and God threw you a lifebelt, what would you do? Grab it and let Him pull you out or continue to struggle to the end? ‘‘I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live……’’ says God. (John 14:6, John 10:10, Matthew 11:28, Deuteronomy 28:19) Annette Riggall The Evangelical Christian Fellowship ‘an oasis where the Word of God is preached and the love of God is shared.’ Sundays 4.30pm Iglesia San Miguel, Calahonda Tel/Fax (0034) 952 46 73 94 E-mail: tecfellowship@gmail.com www.ecfmijas.com Pastors Peter and Annette Riggall
Within that team, The United States also fielded a lone representative, in the shapely form of Ms. Loring Spencer (300) from Arizona, (pictured), who completed the course easily within the time, (despite several off course excursions!) and with a low horse pulse rate, clearly demonstrating how the west was won!
David & Betsy Borthwick photo taken by Wally Saunders
There were a few trailmarking shortfalls, which is inevitable given the nature of the event, but the organisers were right on the case, and future events will be even more clearly marked, and more strictly martialled.
You thought Raid was fly spray! Think again!
The competitive nature of the event also highlighted the intensity with which the participants approached the day. Several competitors expressed doubts as to the integrity of (400) others in taking the absolutely correct route, which again, given the nature of the event, and human nature, is inevitable. The organisers were mindful, and will be even more vigilant in coming events.
That’s the name of a fabulous equestrian event staged this year in the beautiful rolling hills north of Coin twice a year.
Clearly, when a sporting event is judged succesful or not, the passion and strength of feeling expressed by the competitors is a clear indication of success!
The raid is organised by David and Betsy Borthwick, who between them, have many years experience in competing and organising endurance events.
It speaks volumes of the day that most present were not at all bothered that it coincided with the Rugby world cup final, and stayed till the end!
On Saturday 20th October, around 60 horses, most with riders (!) took part in a gruelling cross country endurance competition, starting at the farm of Snr. Rafael Berdaguer, Cortigo Los Frailes. Individuals, groups of friends, and teams competed with one another over a 35km route, (100) over fields, through rivers and orchards, up and down steep hills, testing both horse and rider to the limit. Not only were these true sportsmen and women against the clock, but also they were required to have the horses pulse rate down to pre race levels within 30 minutes of the end of the event. Proffessional vetting services were provided by Emma Fisher and her husband Emiliano. Both horse and rider needing to have the ultimate conditioning, and requiring to display not only supreme courage, but also exceptional fitness. The judging was firm, several competitors being disqualified (200) for not finishing the course within the allotted time, or not having the horses’ pulse rate down in time for the post event vetting. Competitors came from far and wide, the majority being Spanish, but the Brits were well represented by entrants from several local stables. Most notably by an exceptionally well, and by far the most professionally presented and turned out 3 girl team, (pictured) dubbed ‘‘100% class’’ (albeit by themselves!) from C.E.C. (CHARLOTTES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE tel 680987044 email rowleyc@terra.es). The British girls, Charlotte Rowley and Jayne Grimshaw on Romeo and Estrella respectively were a credit to the stable, both in terms of demeanour and sportsmaship.
The event itself, was divided into 2 categories, to allow competitors of all (500) levels of experiece to take part. The categories were : Class one, over 35km 1st place Clarise Geert on Hillary 2nd Iris Janowski on Sadan 3rd Alex Tavares on Guarde 4th Pip Hollifield on Rocio 5th Edwina Haynes on Protesora 6th Celia Santana on Gorky The results for class 2 are available directly from the organisers. Rosettes were sponsored by Rancho Rocinante and Equestrian Direct. It was pointed out by the organisers that the placings would have been different, had, for a number of reasons, several competitors not ridden up to 9km more than necessary, thus giving them better times than (600) the winners listed! Better luck next time to those guys and gals!!!!! A further development next time, building on the success of the first two years, may be the possible inclusion of ‘‘pitches’’ for stalls, (no bookies of course!!) provision for food stands, media presence, and of course, even more competitors, making this event not only a great competition, but also a magnificent spectacle. A perfect day out! Even if you only have a passing interest in equestrian sport, this makes fascinating viewing. Contact the organisers, David and Betsy Borthwick by email (david_borthwick@hotmail.com) for details of how to (700) enter, arrange a stall, or just how to get there!
>> costaSTUFF
Just when you thought you had seen the last of the deeply trouble pop singer Britney Spears, she is insisting on showing us even more than we would want. Having been in rehabilitation, for drugs, and alcohol abuse and the court order to remove her two children, handing them over to her former husband, Britney has taken to wearing very short mini skirts with no underwear, allowing photographers to take pictures of herself sliding out of her car with one leg heading east, the other west. Britney cross your legs as the LA authorities are contemplating bringing indecency charges in a public place against her…Gorgeous George Clooney is recovering after crashing his motor bike. George only had superficial injuries, his pride probably suffered more, George has 20 motor bikes, and he uses them so that he can cut through the LA traffic quicker. Does this enable him to visit more girl friends in one day? George on yer bike…Congratulations to the Mexican firecracker Salma Hayek, just when we thought that the sexy beauty was too busy producing the hit TV series Ugly Betty, and not giving her fashion Tycoon husband extra special attention, Selma at 41 gave birth to her first child daughter Valentina…Male hunk Colin Farrell is happy to tell me that he has a lucky pair of underpants, ‘‘I don’t wear them for disco’s or clubs, it’s my looks that get the women, not the pants. However I wore the shamrock shorts on the last seven occasions on the first day of filming, to bring me luck.’’ shamrock ah how sweet, I hope you turn over a new leaf soon…Is Angelina Jolie becoming slightly psychotic, when she says that ‘‘This is going to sound really insane, but there was a time when I was going to hire somebody to kill me.’’ shame about the past, how about raiding your piggy bank and hire someone !…Another hunk with an identity problem is Orlando Bloom, ‘‘I’ve played a boxer, a cowboy, a prince , an elf and a pirate. I’m grateful to be able to do that’’ when will you start playing yourself I ask ?…Busy filming a new TV series is the stunning British actress Anna Friel, having left her actor Husband David Thewlis to look after their young daughter Gracie Anna is filming Pushing Daises, a new comedy drama in LA, about a man with the power to bring people back to life, surely they should have cast Victoria Beckham, as she could do with reviving…News reaches me that the two whippet thin actresses Keira Knightly and Sienna Miller have been gorging themselves on food while filming The Edge Of Love, both were on a curry diet, curries for lunch and dinner, and eggs Benedict for breakfast, maybe the sequel will be called Wind in the Willows…While babies are still in fashion, but not marriage Helena Bonham Carter and her next door neighbour boyfriend producer Tim Burton are expecting their second child. Both Helena and Tim use a connecting door between their homes to get it together, Helena said earlier in the year ‘‘We’ve got to get on with it, to do list: Have sex, at the right time.’’ Helena a piece of advice, now shut that door.
So what else is new?
>> Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix
>>Die Hard 4: Live Free Or Die Hard
Out On DVD on 12/11/2007 Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint & Emma Watson
Starring: Bruce Willis, Maggie Q & Justin Long The much anticipated fourth entry in the ‘‘Die Hard’’ series sees John McClane (Willis) taking on an Internet-based terrorist organization who is systematically shutting down the United States. The mysterious figure behind the scheme seems to have figured out every digital angle, but he hasn’t counted on an old fashioned ‘analogue’ cop, John McClane.
In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry returns for his fifth year of study at Hogwarts and discovers that much of the wizarding community has been denied the truth about his recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort. Harry, Ron and Hermione take matters into their own hands, meeting secretly with a small group of students who name themselves ‘‘Dumbledore’s Army’’. Harry teaches them how to defend themselves against the Dark Arts, preparing the courageous young wizards for the extraordinary battle that lies ahead.
>> Shrek 3: Shrek The Third
>> Pirates Of The Caribbean 3: At World’s End Out On DVD on 19/11/2007 Starring: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom & Keira Knightley In the third installation of the ever-popular Pirates series, we find our heroes Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann allied with Captain Barbossa in a desperate quest to free Captain Jack Sparrow from his mind-bending trap in Davy Jones’ locker. Captain Barbossa, Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann must sail off the edge of the map, navigate treachery and betrayal, and make their final alliances for one last decisive battle. La Cala
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Out On DVD on 26/11/2007 Voices: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy & Cameron Diaz When Fiona’s dad dies Shrek is supposed to take the crown, however Shrek doesn’t want the responsibility. So Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and Puss look for a new King. And so far King Arthur is the best they have. When his new father-in-law, King Harold (John Cleese) falls ill, Shrek is looked at as the heir to the land of Far, Far Away. Not one to give up his beloved swamp, Shrek recruits his friends Donkey and Puss (Antonio Banderas) to install the rebellious Artie (Justin Timberlake) as the new king. Princess Fiona, however, brought to you by rallies a band of royal girlfriends to fend off a coup d’etat by the jilted Prince Charming (Rupert Everett).
See our advert on page 77
costaSTUFF >>
costa life 71
Written by
Peter Harrison
A
fter the hot summer it is a relief to have cooler weather. Some animals share this relief and emerge from their hiding places. Toads, the devotees of cool, damp places, can now leave their holes and wander in their hunt for beetles, ants, woodlice, earthworms and snails which are in abundance. The dry skin which is a real hazard to toads is now past as summer recedes. All they have to fear is the grass snake which is a predator. Ironically the toad fancies a meal of very young grass snakes if he can discover a nest. ‘‘Catch them young,’’ is the toad’s motto. However, should an adult grass snake attack a toad, the toad blows itself up into a ball and stiffens its legs so it appears to be a grotesque balloon on stilts - enough to frighten the most courageous of snakes. Toads are not aggressive hunters; in fact they are rather lethargic, awaiting their prey, flying or terrestrial, to pass by and then flipping out a coiled tongue which is attached to the front of the mouth. The tip of the tongue wraps around the prey and the toad has a tasty morsel. The toad is mainly nocturnal but it can suddenly appear during the daylight hours, especially when it is raining. In sandy areas of Spain the
desert toad buries itself as protection from the sun and nature has equipped it with an enormous bladder which it uses as a reservoir. As soon as it detects rain it comes to the surface and gathers a new supply of water. The longest recorded life of a European toad is 36 years. He could probably have lived longer but became careless in his old age and fell victim to a raven when he left his hiding place under a loose doorstep of a house. Strange place to live you may think but toads are like that. You can almost believe that they seek human company as they often make their home near a house. They are very territorial and can often stay in their selected patch for a lifetime in solitary existence. In the spring when the mating season comes they lose their territorial characteristic and join other toads in a pond which can be a considerable distance away. You can often see several males gathered around one female‌ who chooses who is anyone’s guess and is a secret no toad will tell! Fertilisation takes place after the expulsion of eggs and then the toads prove to be poor parents as they defect and leave the spawn to develop on its own into tadpoles. The Midwife toad is an exception and I will discuss this separately. After spawning the toads return to their own territory. Last autumn we found a toad in our garden. He had a home under the paving around the pool and was the subject of great curiosity to our family of cats. Our first worry was that it was one of the poisonous toads but this proved unfounded as he had not attacked. However he did not seem at all enthusiastic at being pawed by cats. We decided to re-house him so he was placed in a bucket with a little water to keep him damp and we drove him to a shallow river which has reed beds on its banks. It was a toad’s paradise and there was certainly no danger to or from domestic pets.
visit to your vet is essential. Do not wait to see what happens. Without professional attention the encounter can prove fatal. One toad which is indigenous to Southern Spain is the Midwife Toad. It has characteristics which are different from other toads. It mates on land so does not have the nuptial pads which keep the water mating toads together. The male is a dedicated parent and keeps the eggs attached to his body, usually the legs, until they develop into tadpoles. He can carry as many as 160 eggs around, usually in three clusters, each from a different female. The problem that a wildlife watcher faces is that the Midwife Toad is almost impossible to see. It is only about five centimetres long and well camouflaged. It hides in soft sand or river banks and comes out only at night. So rarely seen is it that it was considered extinct until fairly recently and then was made the subject of a captive breeding programme. You may not be able to see it but hearing it is another matter as it is highly vociferous .One home seeker found the house of her liking, but asked the estate agent where the chicken farm was located. It turned out to be Midwife toads on the nearby river bank. Once disturbed, however, they go silent. In recent years there has been a decline in the number of toads. This is partly due to the shrinkage of natural habitat and partly due to Chytrid Fungus which infects the skin of several amphibians and interferes with their ability to absorb water. Possibly this is due to climate change which reduces the immunity system of amphibians to fungus and also the warmth increases the growth factor of the fungus. We read so much about climate change and its effect on the environment. Hopefully human beings will react in time to arrest this change so that future generations can enjoy wildlife .We are all fortunate enough to live in Spain which is rich in wildlife. What a joy it is to observe it and write about it.
The toad had other ideas about where he should live and took a dim view on our intrusion into his domestic arrangements. Within three days he was back in our garden having travelled four kilometres at toads pace, crossing over the construction of the new high speed railway line. He could find home regardless of being in the bucket for the journey. There was no doubt about it being the same toad as I had studied his marking very carefully. Toads have a remarkable navigational capability, very similar to that of migratory birds. When winter sets in toads do not hibernate but they go torpid and thereby save energy. Warm, humid weather brings them out of their selected place where they have remained safe from drought and enemies. As cold blooded animals they do not react to cold as mammals do. Some toads are venomous and can be dangerous to household pets .If molested they exude a poison from their skin or from saliva. Spain has a large number of these toads and the problem is distinguishing them from other toads. However should your cat or dog fall victim then an immediate
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Costa
Cuisine
by Jan Morley of FreezerMor
A TRADITIONAL SPANISH CHRISTMAS ‘‘FELIZ NAVIDAD’’ Many seasonal traditions are similar throughout Europe, and here in Andalucia the celebrations are spread over two weeks. On December 22, Children start their winter vacations, and they announce the winning number of the famous Christmas Lottery in Spain, El Gordo. This lottery has the biggest prizes in Spain.
December 24, Christmas Eve Christmas Eve, (or Nochebuena) dinner is the biggest meal of the year in Spain, but there is nothing as ubiquitous as turkey (it is true that in the past ‘pavo trufado’ (turkey stuffed with truffles) was a popular dish with the country's elite, but this is not common. The only rule today is that people eat ‘well’ (and probably expensively) Dinner starts late, at about 10pm and will go on for a couple of hours, until it is time for midnight mass. known as ‘‘La misa del Gallo’’, or ‘‘Rooster Mass’’, named such because the Rooster is known as the first to announce the birth of Christ.
December 25, Christmas Day Christmas day is spent with their families, they eat another large meal, and, children enjoy the small gifts that they have received from ‘‘Papa Noel’’, the Spanish equivalent of Santa Claus. The custom of giving gifts on this date is not as popular as it is in many countries, as Spaniards traditionally wait until Three King’s Day to exchange gifts.
December 31, New Year’s Eve Of course, the celebrations that take place on New Year’s Eve, or Nochevieja, in Spain, are quite an impressive spectacle. In all plazas of Spanish cities big and small, one can see a similar scene, and it will undoubtedly include church bells and grapes and fireworks! When the clock strikes 12, the church bells sound 12 times, and at this moment, all Spaniards eat 12 grapes, one for each toll of the bell. According to tradition, those who eat the grapes will have 12 months of prosperity in the New Year.
January 5, The Three Kings Parade In the evening the children watch as the Three Kings (los Reyes Magos) parade through the towns, throwing caramelos (sweets) to the children. Before bed they leave their shoes outside for Mechior, Gaspar and Balthasar to fill with gifts.
January 6, Three King’s Day For breakfast or after lunch, families often have the typical dessert of the day, the ‘‘Roscón de los Reyes’’, a large ring shaped cake that is decorated with candied fruits, symbolic of the emeralds and rubies that adorned the robes of the three kings. Somewhere inside the cake there is a surprise, and the person to find it will be crowned King or Queen of the house for the remainder of the day. Here are a couple of sumptuous recipes to please all the family!
Sea food soup Ingredients Hake fillets 450g/1lb 1 small monkfish tail, weighing about 450g/1lb 100g/4oz prepared squid 20 clams Good pinch saffron 20 large prawns 20 small mussels, cleaned 150ml/5fl oz white wine 1 fennel bulb, trimmed 1 onion, peeled 68 costa life
1 leek 5 plum tomatoes, skinned 120ml/4fl oz olive oil 3 garlic cloves, crushed 2 strips of orange zest, cut into very thin shreds 2tsp tomato paste 2 young, fresh bay leaves, leaves from 1 sprig of fresh thyme, finely chopped 2 tbsp chopped fresh fennel herb or dill 3 tbsp Pernod salt freshly milled black pepper extra virgin olive oil, coarse sea salt and crusty bread to serve
Method 1. Make a fish stock with the bones, using 2.75L/5pt of water. 2. Cut the squid lengthways along one side of the pouch and open it out. Cut the squid the hake and monkfish fillets lengthways into strips 3. Put the scrubbed mussels and clams in a pan with a splash of white wine, cover and cook over a high heat for 3-4 minutes until they have opened. Discard any that remain closed. 4. Strain the cooking liquor into the fish stock, 5. Cut the fennel bulb and onion into 6 or 8 wedges. 6. Cut the leek and tomatoes lengthways into quarters. 7. Heat the olive oil in a large pan - if you have a suitable oven-to-table one, this would be ideal. Otherwise just use a large saucepan and transfer the soup to a tureen to serve. 8. Add the fennel,saffron onion, leek, garlic, orange zest. 9. Cook over a low heat for about 4 minutes, until the vegetables are just softened. Add the tomato paste, fish stock, remaining white wine, tomatoes, salt and pepper. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes. 10. Add the fish and prawns, plus the bay leaves, thyme, half the fennel herb or dill and the Pernod . Simmer for 3 minutes only (otherwise you will overcook the fish), adding the mussels and clams for the final minute. 11. Sprinkle the soup with the remaining fennel or dill and take to the table, together with little bowls of extra virgin olive oil and coarse sea salt and the bread. Serve in large soup plates and instruct your guests to dip the bread in the oil and then the salt to eat the soup.
STUFFED TURKEY 1 turkey crown (solely breast meat and skin, no bones) (3 kg) 5 slices of Serrano ham
For the Stuffing 1 kilo of sausage meat 75 grams of sultanas 2 egg yolks and one egg white 1 tablespoon of sherry, salt, pepper and half teaspoon cinnamon a sprinkling of rosemary and thyme
This was traditionally made with a whole turkey that was boned and rolled, but nowadays the crown is more popular. Mix together all the ingredients for the stuffing and stuff the crown, sewing the opening thereafter. Place the slices of Serrano ham over the turkey before cooking. Cook in the oven at 200ºC 30-35 minutes per kilo, plus 30 minutes. basting the bird in its own stock from time to time.
costaSTUFF >>
costa life 69
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You know when you're living in 2007… When you accidentally enter your password on the microwave. You haven’t played solitaire with real cards in years. You have a list of 15 numbers for your family of three. You email the person at the desk next to you. You pull onto your own drive and use your mobile phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry the shopping. Every commercial on TV has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
True facts… In the 1400’s a law was set forth that a man was not allowed to beat his wife with a stick no thicker than his thumb. Hence we have ‘‘the rule of thumb’’. Many years ago in Scotland, a new game was invented. It was ruled ‘‘Gentlemen Only...Ladies Forbidden’’...and thus the word GOLF entered into the English language. In English pubs, ale is ordered by pints and quarts... So in old England, when customers got unruly, the bartender would yell at them, ‘‘Mind your pints and quarts, and settle down.’’ It’s where we get the phrase ‘‘mind your P’s and Q's’’.
Excuse me mister have you seen my mother?
Believe it or not, you can read this… I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.
Can you believe this…
After life telegrams For a donation of $5.00 per word (5 word minimum), we can have telegrams delivered to people who have passed away. This is done with the help of terminally Ill volunteers who memorize the telegrams before passing away, and then deliver the telegrams after they have passed away. We call this an ‘‘afterlife telegram’’. The $5.00 per word fee, depending on the wishes of the messenger, it is either given to a relative, donated to a charity or used to pay for medical bills. The company does not keep any of the fees from the sale of the telegrams. S in ce we ca n n o t g u a ra n te e d e liv e ry n o r p ro v e th a t a m e ssa g e h a s b e e n d e liv e re d successfully, our customers do not pay for ‘‘deliveries’’. They pay for ‘‘delivery attempts’’. What we do guarantee is the following: 1) The messengers have memorized their telegrams before passing on. 2) The messengers have promised to do what can be done to deliver their telegrams to the addressees after passing.
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>> costa STUFF Sudoku answers for Issue 32
2
8 5
1 7
4
3
6 9 2 6 1 4 9 8 6 8 5 3 1 9 6 3 1 4 9 8 2 2 9 5 3 2 8 6 1 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.
Down 1. Sartor (6) 2. Evening (5) 4. Make better (5) 5. Asinine (7) 6. Food store (6) 7. Laconic (5) 9. Fish (5) 14. Wandered (7) 16. Type of musical scale (5) 17. Begins (6) 18. Bet (5) 19. Combined (6) 21. Path (5) 23. Relating to a city (5)
Across 1. Bicycle for two (6) 3. Legal (6) 8. Metal bar (5) 10. Voter (7) 11. Choices (7) 12. Stingless male bee (5) 13. Ire (5) 15. Accumulate (5) 20. Entice (5) 22. Recess (7) 24. Let go (7) 25. Automaton (5) 26. Riding seat (6) 27. Repented (6)
Crossword answers for Issue 32 72 costa life
>> costa STUFF removing the urge to mate and therefore making your rabbit calmer and happier. Rabbits spray urine to mark their territory and in some cases will do so over their owners as a sign of affection, especially in the breeding season. Once neutered, male rabbits will generally stop spraying urine. Both males and females are easier to litter train once they have been neutered - a big advantage if you want to keep your rabbit as a house pet!
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
RABBITS AS PETS N E U T E R I N G T
he domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), is a mammal of the order Lagomorpha. The rabbit originated from the European wild rabbit, its ancestors most likely developing in the Iberian Peninsula and spreading throughout the Mediterranean area. Early domestication of the rabbit occurred in Spain during the first century BC and by the sixteenth century selective breeding and more skilful domestication were ongoing. Rabbits were used for stocking ships for meat supplies and so were inadvertently introduced throughout the world with the result that by the mid sixteen hundreds England was raising them to supply both meat and fur.
There are now more than 30 breeds of domestic rabbit, ranging in size and weight from the one kilogram dwarf breeds, all the way up to the ten kilogram giant breeds. Rabbits are growing in popularity as pets, particularly in urban areas where space is limited and there are restrictions on keeping dogs and cats. They have a lively and curious behaviour, which can be a great source of enjoyment for their owner.
NEUTERING: We strongly recommend neutering your pet rabbit as soon as it becomes sexually mature - this is usually between 4-6 months of age.
WHY SHOULD I NEUTER MY RABBIT? Rabbits are naturally gregarious animals and live in the wild in small social groups, therefore a pet rabbit will be happier if he has a companion to live with. However this can cause problems such as fighting and unwanted litters, especially if you have a male and female rabbit living together. Neutering your rabbit at a young age will eliminate these problems. Research has shown that neutered rabbits live longer. Unspayed females are likely to develop uterine or ovarian cancer by the age of 5 years. This is virtually eliminated by spaying. Neutered males live longer - they are less likely to be aggressive and will therefore be less stressed, friendlier companions. An aggressive rabbit can be quite frightening, especially to a small child. Aggression can be due to a number of factors. The rabbit may not have been handled sufficiently or socialised whilst very young. It may have been dropped or mishandled, or it may be just frightened. Neutering your rabbit can also reduce aggression by permanently 74 costa life
Neutering a rabbit is a routine operation which is classed as ‘day surgery’. You will be asked to bring your pet into the Clinic between 8.30am and 9.30am where a nurse will give him/her a health check and ask you to sign a consent form authorising the operation on your rabbit.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE OPERATION? A general anaesthetic will be given by injection and gas (isofluorane). This takes five to ten minutes to take effect. If your rabbit is male then a small amount of hair will be removed from the area over the testicles. Castration involves removal of both the testicles through a couple of small incisions which are closed with stitches. These will dissolve by about 10 days but we normally ask that you bring your rabbit back to the Clinic a week after the operation for the nurse to check that the wound is healing correctly. If your rabbit is female then an area from the middle of your rabbit’s tummy to between her hind legs will be clipped. An incision of between one and two inches will be made in the skin and the uterus and ovaries will be removed. Again, stitches will be placed in the skin. These stitches are dissolvable and will disappear in a couple of months after your rabbit's operation.
AFTER CARE Your rabbit will take a couple of hours to wake up fully, during which time he/she will be monitored by a nurse to ensure that there are no problems and that your pet is comfortable. Either the vet or nurse will ring you immediately after the surgery on your pet has been completed to let you know that everything is all right. One of doctors of Myramar Animal Hospital will give your rabbit back to you and go through any special postoperative care and treatment that may be required. When you arrive home with your rabbit, place it in its hutch on hay (not woodshavings as these can stick to the wound), and ensure that the hutch is in a draught-free environment. Your rabbit will still be feeling a bit sleepy, so make sure that he/she is left alone to recover quietly. Children will probably be keen to hold or play with their pet but it is better to discourage this until the day after the operation and then an adult should supervise any handling. Food and water should be made available as soon as you get home. Please check the wound in the morning and evening for the week following surgery, to ensure that there is no swelling or redness. If you are worried at all about your rabbit then please ring the Hospital. There is a vet on duty 24 hours a day : 952588543 or 667433678 Myramar Animal Hospital. Fuengirola. www.myramaranimalhospital.com
Myramar animal Hospital. Av/Santa Amalia esq voluntariors 29640 Fuengirola. . 952588543 667433678 myramarhospital@hotmail.com
costa STUFF >>
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>> costaSTUFF
brought to you by Russell Vaughan Mintmicro S.L 951160411
What no WiFi? There are places in our Homes and Businesses that Wifi wouldn’t reach until now. The concrete, plaster and glass in our homes blocks Wi-Fi signals. One thing our home and work places have in common is electricity and now a range of new products use your existing power cables to reach those dead spots without laying Ethernet cables Introducing the Powerline adaptor. They plug into your electricity sockets and turn them into a data port, this allows you to get to those Internet dead spots. ‘‘I use them with wireless access points to fill in the various dead spots around the house or when the weather is nice, I use them to provide connectivity outside so I can lie in a hammock and, ummm, work.’’ Powerline adapters were previously limited by interference from the electrical noise generated by appliances and household gadgets using the same circuit, but the latest generation appears to have largely overcome that problem. Also, the adapters offer a theoretical speed of about 200Mbit/sec., which is enough to handle digital video signals, even when actual throughput is less than half the theoretical speed (as is common with Ethernet). But do they work? Powerline adapters are a little bigger than a mobile phone and cost around €150 for a pair. Each plugs directly into a power outlet or at the end of an extension line, and has an Ethernet port. The user plugs the unit into a power outlet and attaches one end of an Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port and the other end of that cable to a computing device. After the user does the same with a second adapter and a second computing device (typically a router), the two devices are connected as if via an Ethernet cable. There are usually indicator lights on the adapter to show that it’s functioning. ‘‘Ninety percent of the time, you can just plug and play,’’ The other 10% of the time, the house may have older wiring, or it may have added wiring that doesn’t have good connectivity with the older wiring. But the technology is robust enough for most situations. ‘‘I am looking forward to the time when you can plug your plasma TV into a power outlet, and no other connections are needed.’’
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Picture these great WiFi Gadgets WiFi Bunny The white plastic bunny from France looks kind of Hello Kitty sweet as it sits all by itself on a kitchen counter or living room bookshelf. It’s a minimalist rabbit bell-shaped with simple black dots for eyes and a mouth, and pointed ears that stick up straight. Quiet, nice bunny. Then it gets an e-mail. Suddenly, the ears start twisting weirdly in different directions, lights flash in its belly and the bunny that seemed dormant a second ago begins speaking. Think of it as a cross between a pet rock and Bride of Chucky. What brings about this transformation? Wi-Fi. The rabbit, whose commercial name is Nabaztag (Armenian for rabbit), is one of the latest attempts to give consumers another use for wireless Internet besides getting home computers online.
15 in WiFi Picture frame In addition to the bunny, another recent product is a digital screen, framed in wood for hanging on the wall, that can receive pictures via WiFi from Internet photo services. Both are sophisticated devices. Nabaz-tag, especially, can offer numerous audio services. The bunny can pass along stock prices, weather forecasts and news headlines, all periodically updated from Internet sources. The bunny can pipe up as ‘‘Ryan deep voice,’’ ‘‘Heather speaking quickly’’ and other choices. The device can play an Internet radio station or a short MP3 file sent by a friend. The digital picture frame,, can show high-quality images nonstop from collections stored online. But are these products ready for prime time? They are far from the first attempts at finding alternative home uses for the Internet, unconnected from computers.
Last but not least is the MP4 Watch This is a totally original item that the gadget-lover who has it all still does not have. This MP4 watch has a 4 x 4 cm screen that plays recorded MP4 video. Last night’s TV, along with all the baby videos your friends can take and it all fit comfortably into 2gb of internal storage. If there’s any leftover storage, you can fill it up with music, since there’s also an MP3 player. The MP4 watch also takes voice memos in MP3 format, and acts as USB 2.0 plug-and-play storage. It displays photos, and of course, the time. I can see these products making great gifts so don’t forget order early for Xmas.
costa STUFF >> SEO Services Spain - Search Engine Optimization Want your business website to appear at the top of Google, Yahoo and MSN? Do you have a website but nobody knows that it exists? I am an SEO consultant and can help you to attain good rankings and increase web traffic to your site and your sites visibility on the internet. Call for a free no obligation analysis of your current search engine placement and websites optimization. Different packages available to suit all budgets and requirements. Websites designed from just â‚Ź â‚Ź 400 and include free hosting, domain name and email. For more information please visit www.seoservicesspain.com or call Rob on 0034 617 940 022
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christines irish irish theme theme bar bar & & restaurant restaurant opening opening times times
mon - fri - 11am to 1am sat - 4pm to 1am sunday 2pm to 12 midnight monday monday -- karaoke karaoke ten ten pin pin bowling bowling wednesday wednesday friday friday -- live live music music kids kids parties parties etc etc sunday sunday lunches lunches from from 1pm 1pm still still the the best best on on the the costa costa tel: tel: 952 952 666 666 928 928 mob: mob: 637 637 470 470 488 488 email: email: scoobyyates@yahoo.com scoobyyates@yahoo.com
Beach
El Faro Fuengirola
Captains Bar
Km202
La Cala Marbella
Blancos Restaurant
ay ht as D Nig m g t n s i r x ri t Bo cembe for Ch Nex s e g D 8th bookin n i g tak w o N
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
Marbella G u n
a n d
C o u n t r y
C l u b
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
Luxury Villa at a Great Price
€ 180,000 €
AEG517 - Great Investment Opportunity
Don’t miss out on this fabulous 2 bed, 2 bath golf apartment. It is furnished and comes with brand new kitchen & appliances, hot/cold aircon, dedicated garage, a private terrace, shared grounds & swimming pool plus of course the easy access to the golf courses! Call now.
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ADT537 - Alhaurín de la Torre
€€390,000
This lovely villa has a separate guesthouse & is set in 1,500m2 mature gardens. It is 170m2 built with 4 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms. The views from the swimming pool & terraces are fantastic - over countryside & towards the mountains. There is a large garage, gated drive, fitted aircon & heating plus full services connected incl: town water, mains electricity & satellite TV. Like this? Then checkout AEG269 on our website
€€572,000
ALA510 - Hi-Spec Country House
This striking country villa has been designed & built to the highest possible standards. There are 3 large bedrooms & 3 bathrooms plus impressive views & 34,000m2 of land. Architect design with character & practicality such as automated heating/aircon, solar heated water, damp proofing...
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Bargain Large Home & Guest Accommodation
CNN390 - Phenomenal 3 Storey Villa
€ € 595,000
There is a home, self contained apartment & large garage plus features & benefits galore: Pool, amazing landscaped gardens, alarm, CCTV, fish pond, fruit trees, central heating, full services & much more!
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ADT458 - Alhaurín de la Torre ALA432 - Exclusive Development
€€220,000
Choose from 2 to 4 beds apartments that are part of a converted mill. The build quality is exceptional as are the views to El Chorro. Each home has dedicated parking plus private roof terrace & shares the communal pool. Some wonderful Andalucian features have been incorporated. Mortgages available.
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€€379,500
You really get a lot for your money with this villa and guest accommodation - 6 beds in the main home & 2 in the guesthouse. The pool is fenced & the views are wonderful from here & the top terrace. Access is great as it is close to all amenities plus less than 10 minutes drive to the airport. Could make a good business. Viewing is a must. Like this? Then checkout ADT141 on our website