July 2020
eu cArboN eMIssIoNs fAll cArboN levels fAll drAstIcAlly After world-wIde lockdowNs
flIGHt bANs Are beING lIfted
fINd out wHIcH destINAtIoNs Are opeN for trAvel-MAkers
yIN & yANG
How to fINd tHe perfect bAlANce IN All pArts of lIfe?
CONTENTS 3
Community News Positive Tranquility Cakara
4
World News EU Carbon Emissions Fall
5
World News Flight Bans Lifted
6
Economy Reading the Market
7
Feature Finding Tranquility
8
Lifestyle The Yin & Yang - Finding Balance
9
Health & Well-Being CBD - The Benefits
10 Food Meat-free Mondays 12 Beauty Hair Rescue
14 Travel Cyprus, Paphos 15 Culture & Entertainment Who’s the Hangman?
COLOFON CEO and Founder:
Abdelhadi Rhiti Chief Editor:
Paula Rapsiewicz Art Direction and Lay-out:
Jacqueline Brugman
ube-2
changes, changes, changes...
Dear UBE readers, This month we have a few changes on the horizon - the Spanish government are launching a new residency process, and change of documentation necessary for UK nationals who are protected by the Withdrawal Agreement. The Tarjeta de Identidad de Extranjero, also known as the TIE, will be changed to suit the new legislations. This can mean that appointment process in requiring documents may change, and anyone who is registering will now be issued with a biometric TIE card, as opposed to the current “green” paper document. Spain is one of the first EU countries to embrace this new residency system. We are also beginning to see more changes in the way businesses are operating, with the resumption of tourism in certain countries. Let’s keep staying safe, and enjoy the summer season as we should!
Abdelhadi Rhiti CEO and Founder
COMMUNITY NEWS
positive tranquility
Are you looking for a place to unwind? Tired of packed-out retreat centres and spas? In need of a quiet and more private space where you can just let go of everyday tension, and dive into a feeling of complete calm? Positive Tranquility is here to provide you with no less than. We are a family-run retreat, in Nueva Andalucia, surrounded by blissful nature and total peace. Our mission is to provide an exclusive, spa-like, experience in an authentic and personal environment. We aim to accommodate our guests with the highest quality experience, by carefully planning our sessions, catering to your needs, and staying in touch with you from booking to check-out. Like our Facebook page Positive Tranquility.
Bespoke packages, available at different prices ranges, will consist of a variety of classes and workshops; these will include yoga, mediation, body & mind, and spiritual sessions, as well as beauty treatments, massages, and more. We will be taking bookings from September, and all look forward to welcoming you to our retreat!
Healing is a journey that many set out on as we explore different routes into the light.
We are all connected to this divine light in the eyes of the creator. The repositioning of energy aids us in enhancing the infinite wisdom within. I am elated to have the ability to source beautiful healing stones as they have guided my spiritual journey and I am sure they will aid you also. Our crystals are gifts from mother earth, our ancestors before us utilised the magical powers of these stones and so should we. Cakara means wheel or circle in Punjabi and represents the wheel of life. The bespoke jewellery I fashion focuses on connecting to you personally. We connect, converse and jointly select the perfect piece, discover your soul stone now with Cakara. Instagram cakaraofficial., Blessings, Abundance & unbounded love. ube-3
WORLD NEWS
eu carbon emissions fall The EU Commission reported that the market carbon emissions fell by 8.7% in the year of 2019. The Emissions Trading System (ETS), who regulate on average 45% of the EU’s greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and set caps on industrial activities and aviation, have put certain schemes in place which have greatly contributed to this decline. Scientists predicted in 2019 that the global gas emissions, generated from greenhouses, were due to fall even lower this year; the COVID-19 pandemic was a major player in achieving even further declines in early 2020, with the closure of businesses and factories worldwide. The IEA (International Energy Agency) forecasted a fall of approximately 2.6billion tonnes of carbon dioxide levels yearon-year; they explained that by reducing usage of energy,
including electricity, heating and transport, during the lockdown, we can improve the emissions levels drastically. The European Parliament also released a report in April 2020, displaying data and predicting as much as a 40% drop from 1990 in GHG emissions in Germany alone. In addition, as of June 2020, the statistics collected by Eurostat show that we are currently on track to exceeding the 2020 target of 20% decline in GHG emissions. Although things seem to be improving, the IEA have stressed that once the economy returns back to normal, and businesses reopen, it’s possible that the numbers will rise again, or even bounce back higher than the decline. They remind us that the EU needs to take their efforts up a level in order to increase energy efficiency, boost electrification and focus on growing shares of renewable fuels. Businesses have to be mindful, and systems must be put in place to avoid a rebound happening, and help us maintain the levels, which are currently at the lowest levels since the late 50’s. Written by Paula Rapsiewicz
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WORLD NEWS
flight bans lifted Slowly, but surely, we are witnessing the world come back to live; restaurants, pubs and bars have re-opened this Saturday in the UK, fashion and beauty stores are welcoming back customers, and some countries are now open for quarantinefree travel. The 14-day quarantine period, which was put in place in most countries, meant that travellers would need to selfisolate for 2 weeks upon arrival, and another fortnight when they return back home. Spain was one of the first countries to reopen their borders, quarantine-free, for members of the EU and UK, on June 21st. Soon after Portugal, Italy, Netherlands and Greece followed suit, and opened up their countries to tourists from 1st July. Boris Johnson announced the 59 countries which the UK citizens are allowed to travel to, without having to undergo the fourteen day self-isolation period; these include Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands, New Zealand and Australia, amongst many others.
However; although excitement is in the air, it’s worth checking the rules of both your destination and home country when planning a holiday; for instance, New Zealand and Australia's borders still remain closed to most tourists, while travellers visit Greece require a ‘passenger locator form' ' to be completed 48 hrs before travel. Similarly, some non-European countries such as Thailand, Barbados and Bahamas, have re-opened to visitors from all over the world. Donald Trump has also announced that he is considering lifting the European flight ban to the US, which was put in place soon after the pandemic began. Written by Paula Rapsiewicz
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ECONOMY
Learn the skiLLs
of reading the markets! Register your interest in learning the secrets of trading from David Byrne, a leading market professional for over 30 years! A unique opportunity has become available to readers of ‘United British Expats Magazine’. A note from David: Back in 2001, at what now seems the tender age of 37, I had achieved great success, but knew I still had much to learn. I was passing more than fifty percent of my net income for “professionals” to manage at major institutions. Little did I know, most of these were young brokers 10 years my junior and had never experienced a serious fallout. When the financial markets collapsed, so did my investments. I, however, was still making money! I thought that this couldn’t be right! I continued to hone my skills and continued to pass some of the profits on to brokers, pension funds, and money managers. All in all they did ok but, when the next crash came in 2008, I contacted my investment managers and gave specific instructions to exit certain investment sectors. This meant that my pension outperformed the general market place. You too can learn the skills necessary to protect your investments, pensions, or currency exposure as an expat!
A note from our founder Abdelhadi rhiti: I have known David for many years and have personally benefited from his expert advice. Because of this, and our friendship, I have arranged for readers of our magazine to register their interest in a free webinar, delivered from our financial hub in Barcelona directly to your pc, tablet or mobile device. Register your interest below and you will be provided with an exclusive zoom login: Name: E-mail: Location: Reason for registration: You may also contact David through our website for information on personal assessment of your finances.
David Byrne ube-6
“You too can learn the skills necessary to protect your investments, pensions, or currency exposure as an expat!”
finding tranquiLity I remember that late December evening; it was 2003, soon after Poland joined the EU, and I could finally be reunited with my parents after a long year of separation. I was 8 at the time, flying alone for the first time ever, into the UK's busiest airport - Heathrow. All I remember is excitement, no fear; and from then on, I was never scared of change or travel. Fast forward almost two decades, I am now 26, and after living in London for roughly 18 years, I’ve decided to start a new life in Spain. London is my home, I will always have a connection with that city; but just like Poland, I always had the feeling that it’s not my ‘forever home’. London meant a stable job, a pricey apartment and being surrounded by friends; however, I decided I no longer want to just live, and get by - I wanted to thrive. An office-based 9 to 5 just wasn’t what I desired. Within a few weeks, I had sent in my leaving notice to work, packed a few suitcases, and booked my ticket to Malaga. Having a well-paid position at a highly recognised company, and a pretty exciting social life, many thought I was ‘crazy’ for making this decision. Others thought I was brave, and were terrified by the concept of leaving your whole life behind and starting again; but as previously mentioned, change doesn't phase me! A few months have gone by, and I now have a new circle of friends, great job opportunities and the chance to really thrive in the life I’m living (not to mention the beautiful weather!). Starting over may seem extremely scary to some, but it’s worth tackling the fear, in order to discover the endless possibilities that are waiting for you across the shores! Essentially, the moral of the story is - just because you’re settled, doesn’t mean you can’t change your life and surroundings; all you have to do is believe you are capable, and actually begin to make that change. Nothing is impossible! Written by Paula Rapsiewicz ube-7
LIFESTYLE
Ying
&
Yang
Finding Balance Understanding and finding balance is the key to achieving happiness in everyday life, and all that we do. With all that’s happening in the world right now, politically and energetically, it's easy to fall in a trap of lowfrequencies and negativity. However, if we grasp the concept of balance, we can begin to comprehend that all negative experiences and situations carry a ray of light alongside them; this light at the end of the tunnel may be a lesson, an opportunity for self-growth and development, or simply just a trigger for necessary change; but this is what we call ‘the good in the bad’. The Yin and Yang dates back as early as 3rd Century BCE and it derives from China, where the symbol is very prominent in philosophy, and generally one of the cultures’ most wellknown symbols. The Yin and Yang embodies the meaning of balance; it teaches us that all things exist as contradictory and inseparable opposites –
The good and the bad. The light and the dark. The positive and the negative. The feminine and the masculine. The young and the old. The moon and the sun. The love and the hate. The list goes on forever. The Yin and Yang teaches us that in every good situation there is a risk, and in every bad situation there is a greater good at hand. Once you understand balance and apply it to all things in life, your outlook will be more positive in every situation, as you will be aware of the greater good at play behind the scenes. There will be good days, And there will be bad days. but if you're in tune with the balance of the Universal, and become a part of that balance by embracing and applying the Yin and Yang concept to your life, you will be at peace understanding that it's all a part of the journey – the good times and the worse.
Written by Paula Rapsiewicz ube-8
CBD
H E A LT H & W E L L- B E I N G
the benefits
Over the recent years cannabidiol, or CBD, has finally been recognised for its magnificent healing and medicinal properties. The CBD industry is growing rapidly, and predicted to contribute a whooping $16 billion to the US economy by 2025. CBD is the oil extracted from the cannabis sativa plant, and does not contain the psychoactive THC ingredient, which is used to get a high; it is purely a plant based oil which can be used for multiple health complications, and pain relief. Many companies have taken advantage of this growing trend, and incorporated the CBD ingredient into food, beauty and hygiene products, as well as supplements. CBD is said to improve symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD, as well as helping with muscle and back pains, and promoting better sleep. Many studies have been done on the effects of CBD in relation to rare seizures, and evidence confirms that seizures can be reduced with consistent use of pure cannabidiol. Scientists are still discovering the benefits of CBD, and testing its effects on various cases, even suggesting it has properties which help protect the body from creating cancerous cells, therefore reducing the chances of cancer. Pure CBD is very safe according to experts, and the worst side effects you can encounter, such as an upset stomach or sleepiness, are extremely mild and rare. Written by Paula Rapsiewicz
ube-9
Meat-free
Mondays
Vegan and plant-based diets have been on the rise in recent years, and we are still discovering all the great health and environmental benefits that accompany this lifestyle.
‘tofucado’ wraps INGREDIENTS Vegan tortilla wraps Pressed tofu Avocado Tomatoes Cucumber Lettuce Red cabbage Pickled chilli Green bell pepper Fresh mint Hummus Homemade salsa Oregano Chilli flakes Salt Pepper Spice your tofu to your preference, and grill on a medium heat. Prepare all your vegetables by slicing them. Warm up your tortilla in the oven, and arrange your sauces and vegetables. Once your tofu is ready, wrap the tortilla, and voila! I like to make some sweet potato fries to go with these.
According to statistics released by plantproteins.co in 2019, there was a 300% increase in vegan consumers in the UK between 2014 and 2018; similarly, in the US, there was a 500% increase in the same time period, bringing the vegan population to a whooping 6%. Veganism, aside from being super-healthy for your body and mind, is one of the most effective ways of supporting animal rights and helping to protect our environment. Plant Proteins explain that animal agriculture and greenhouse emissions are responsible for more environmental damage, than all transportation emissions combined! Even if veganism isn't something you can do full-time, it’s a great idea to begin by cutting down your meat and dairy intake, and having one plant-based meal a week! It’s something new, will save you some pennies, and will have a positive impact on the planet. Every effort counts! We’ve prepared three delicious recipes for you to kick start your Meat-free Mondays, and we hope you enjoy them as much as our team here at UBE!
Written by Paula Rapsiewicz ube-12
Meat-free skewers INGREDIENTS Red onion Red, green and yellow bell pepper Zucchini Mushrooms Garlic Pineapple Carrot
Olive oil Lemon juice Fresh herbs Oregano Paprika Basil Pepper Salt
Slice all of your vegetables and mix them with some olive oil and spices in a large bowl. Arrange your ingredients on skewers, and grill or barbecue for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
FOOD
ensalada de pasta INGREDIENTS Any type of pasta Vegan almond pesto Cherry tomatoes Avocado
Lettuce Oregano Basil Mixed herbs
Marjoram Salt Pepper Olive oil
Boil and drain your pasta, then transfer to a new pot and mix with the ‘pesto’ sauce. Add some cherry tomatoes and wait until they’re soft. Transfer to a plate and serve with lettuce and sliced avocado.
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HAIr rescue Written by Paula Rapsiewicz ube-12
We love a little dip in the pool during summer season, but our wonderful locks may disagree! Humidity and heat often disagrees with many hair types, and the chlorine definitely doesn’t compliment my bleachblonde strands.
Whatever type of hair you have, the sun and sea can really cause havoc in your daily styling routine; whether you experience colour fades and going green (blonde-problems!), loss of curl, moisture and shine, split ends or constant frizziness, we are here to help!
can struggle to stay healthy and nourished. Of course, wearing a hat, scarf or a swimming cap is one of the options, but there are also multiple products on the market which can help prevent sun damage, or revive your hair when necessary.
Since living in sunny Spain, I’ve experienced green tinges, straw-like hair and total lack of structure. UVB rays are just as harmful to our hair, as they are to our skin; and with the addition of chlorine and sea water, your hair
After trying numerous products and remedies, I’ve put together a list of products which have done miracles to return my hair to a healthy and manageable state, and I hope they do the same for you!
BEAUTY
l’oreal paris elvive extraordinary oil This is my all-time, must-have, at all times! Honestly, since purchasing this oil, I cannot live without. As mentioned earlier, bleach and sun is a deadly combination, often leaving my hair feeling straw-like and drained of any shine. I’ve tried numerous oils, and I found that many of them leave my hair looking greasy, rather than shiny and healthy; however, L’Oreal’s Extraordinary Oil, really is extraordinary! You only need one pump for medium-length hair, and can be used on wet or dry hair. It will leave your hair feeling soft, shiny, and make it a lot more manageable when styling.
Garnier ultimate blends Hair food I was recently out food shopping, when I came across this colourful, vibrant range, which immediately captured my attention. Not only did the packaging look great, I also noticed that these products are made using 98% natural origin ingredients! The range includes shampoo, conditioner and a leave-in mask, which promises healthier, stronger and more nourished hair. With the addition of super fruits, and free of silicone, parabens and colourants, this range seems like the ideal holiday companion. Also, they smell great, and come in various intriguing scents such as banana, goji, macadamia and papaya.
castor oil
pro:voke touch of silver colour care This one is for all of my bleached beauties! PRO:VOKE is my absolute essential on holiday; it’s one of those products that I always have in my bathroom, and always helps to tone out any green patches in my hair. The silver shampoo, conditioner and leave-in toner come in a deep shade of purple which helps to tone out any imperfections in blonde hair. I’ve used this brand for years, and I highly recommend it.
Last, but not least - the old good castor oil! Castor oil has been used for centuries, and is known to benefit our hair in so many ways; it helps it grow faster, stronger, and most importantly - it’s totally natural. Expensive products have taken over some of the most effective natural remedies, but castor oil is still widely used today. It’s high in vitamin E, proteins, minerals and omega-6 and good fatty acids. It also contains very high levels of ricinoleic acid, which are all extremely beneficial for our hair. Before you go to sleep, wet your hair slightly and cover with castor oil; wrap your hair in a scarf or wear a shower cap overnight, and wash out in the morning for maximum effect. ube-13
TRAVEL
cyprus: paphos Looking for a dreamy holiday escape? I’ve got the perfect destination for you!
Paphos, located in the southwest of Cyprus, is the ideal getaway for any occasion; whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend with your significant other, a fun destination for you and your friends, or a touristy trip away with the family Paphos is the place for you! Full of lively bars and restaurants, fun-filled daytime experiences and prehistoric ruins; there is never a dull day in this beautiful part of Cyprus. Turtle watching and snorkeling is extremely popular due to the crystal-clear part of the Medditereanan sea surrounding the island. There are many ruins in the city of Pahos, and I definitely recommend visiting the Kato Paphos Archeological Park, Agios Neophytos Monastery, The House of Dionysus and the Tombs of the Kings. About 45 minute drive north from the port, you can find the extraordinary Avakas Gorge Canyon; perfect for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can find various forms of wildlife, rare plants, and beautiful rock formations. You can also entertain the little ones by taking them to the Aphrodite Waterpark, which is just an hour walk from the port. Also, if you like cats - this is the place for you! Paphos is known for their high population of stray cats, and they’re always out in the streets, waiting for tourists and restaurant owners to sneak them some goods!
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C U LT U R E & E N T E R T A I N M E N T
who’s the Hangman? DAVID ANDREW BYRNE F ast-paced and gr ipping psychological thr iller th at incorpo r ates some very modern subject matters , and is pack ed full of engagin g ch aracters. This pulsating novel brings crime thrillers into the 21st Century, whilst retaining all the elements that have kept the midnight oil burning in households for generations. In some ways the style of the book can be compared to James Patterson for its short, fast paced chapters; Jeffrey Deaver’s “Twisted” in the way a reader quickly engages with characters, and Thomas Harris’s “Silence of the Lambs” for the sometimes-disturbing methods of dispatch. Aside from this, it very much stands alone in the world of thrillers. The novel is predominantly set in Chicago, a city where I have lived and visited on many occasions. A few of the key characters are based on people I have met in that city and in some instances, remain in close contact with. My background is that of the financial markets, something demonstrated on occasion throughout the book; although, I have ensured that these aspects are simply explained and contribute well to the overall plot. The storyline encompasses new elements such as Crypto Currencies, the increasingly popular
penchant for Amazonian Shamanic remedies and Cannabidiol, as well as the traditional triggers for so many real-life crimes; trauma, mental health, transitioning and bullying. This is all interspersed with some romance, and the occasional unexpected patch of humour. Perhaps the thing that I am most proud of is the strength of the female characters that develop throughout the book. The sequel 'Letters to my Sister’ is well underway! Available to purchase at KOBO.COM for the ebook. Compatible with all devices and readers. Written by David Byrne ube-15
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