FR
EE
THE VERY BEST FOR
EXPAT
INFO
www.allabroad.es
October 2016 issue number 63
27th Sep - 20th Oct 2016
GRAN ALACANT in
A LAP OF SPAIN • 2 Motorbikes • NO motorways • Only coastal and border roads • 23 days • Most major cities
www.motorbikechallenge.es
Raising funds for:
fo r th e lo ca ls. ..b y th e lo ca ls. .!
2
We´ve just popped out for a bit...
ALL ABROAD
www.allabroad.es
So if you´re reading this I, and my
we meet him in Ma-
son Mitch, am somewhere in Spain.
drid – anyone know
It depends when you´re reading it
where Julio Iglesias
as to where we are but just in case
lives? We´re bound
you´re
why…well…were
to be passing and
riding two motorbikes around Spain to
he could spare a few
raise money and awareness for cancer
pesetas?)
wondering
re reaakk!! kkee aa b b a T a T with
research in Spain and another charity very close to my heart; the Samari-
Please try and sup-
tans in Spain. The route will take us
port the cause (ask
around the coast and borders of Spain
where
without using motorways and even-
up
tually we will cover around 7,500km
how to get in con-
over 23 days.
tact) or just visit our
Camping at night and feeding our-
Facebook page where you can keep
selves on 5€ per day is also part of the
up to date with our trip, and there
challenge, as is keeping a written and
you will find the link for online dona-
video diary of the trip.
tions. So far generous sponsors have
you
this
picked
magazine
made it possible for this trip to hapWe´re meeting up with all sorts of
pen and we hope the good people we
people on the way, friends, contacts or
meet both on the ride and at home
just good people who want to help us
will keep showing the continual sup-
raise some dosh. (I will be asking the
port. Thanks a lot! And we´ll be back
British Ambassador to cough up when
soon…maybe. ;)
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by Elle Draper TASHA’S WHEELS In the last issue issue of AllAbroad magazine, we told you about Tasha Lynch, a very poorly young woman who is in and out of Tor-
one who dug deep to donate their funds
Here’s how.
to cover the costs of the journey. Extra
• Go to www.paypal.com and log in as you
thanks also to my family and to Alan’s who
normally would.
provided accommodation in England as the
• Click on “Money” in the top menu and
journey began.
then on “Send Money”. • Then select “Send money to friends and
While the journey was taking place, Tasha
family” (so we can avoid any surcharges)
life-changing illnesses.
was rushed into hospital with major breath-
and enter the email address tasha@spain-
ing problems. She was placed into a coma
buddy.com
Since that article went to press, plenty has
and emergency surgery was carried out
• Click “Next” and then enter the amount
been happening.
the following morning. Tasha’s breathing
you would like to contribute and follow the
Because of the fantastic fundraising of
is now permanently through a tube in her
steps as normal.
so many people, a special car had been
throat. As I type, she is enjoying a cou-
purchased. The Peugeot Expert was sat
ple of weeks at home with her loved ones
We’ve set up that special PayPal email so
in Leicester… waiting for collection. This
before heading back into hospital for more
that we can accurately trace all contribu-
Peugeot will enable Tasha to get into
chemotherapy.
tions and make sure they go to the right
the vehicle without having to leave her
Your generosity has been overwhelming,
place. We operate transparently, so Tasha
wheelchair – it will make such a difference
with people sending money to help cover
and her Dad Andy will always know how
to her life – and she’s already got enough
the costs of the journey. After all costs
much money is being donated.
to worry about what with her respiration
were removed there was even a lump sum
machine and her chemo.
that we were able to donate to Tasha and
If you don’t have PayPal, don’t worry. Drop
her dad to help with her ongoing care.
an email to tasha@spainbuddy.com and
posted a message on Facebook asking if
At time of press, this extra amount is
that will land in our inbox. We will then
anyone would be able to drive the new car
€739.28.
have your contact info and can send you
revieja hospital as a result of her
On August 26 2016, Tasha’s Dad (Andy)
bank details with instructions to ensure
to Alicante. There is still money coming in, and we are
traceability. Or you can use the “Contact
Our Alan loves a road trip, and when I
awaiting news from a corporate sponsor
Us” page on the www.spainbuddy.com
mentioned it to him he jumped at the
which will enable more money to head in
website. Once a bank transfer is done,
chance. So Alan’s road trip began.
Tasha’s direction.
we will put the money in the right hands
Within a couple of hours of the volunteer
But – we are still collecting, and still need
on your behalf. Your anonymity is always
phone call, Alan was headed to Alicante
your help.
respected.
ready to grab a two-legger flight to Liver-
can still
pool airport. From there he made his way
donate to
down to Leicester, where he collected the
help Tasha
car and its journey to Alicante began.
with her day
Big thanks go to everyone who donated to
to day care.
cover the costs of the journey, with special
If you have
mention to the following: Brittany Ferries
a spare €1,
who waived the ferry costs to take the car
€5, €10,
from Portsmouth to La Havre, Stu and Syb
€20, or
Bradley who provided overnight accommo-
even €50
dation and a hearty meal at their Le Chant
– please
d’Oiseau campsite and gites in the Loire
would you
Valley in France, Phil Burch from Meine
send it
Staedt travel agency in Germany who has
to us via
pledged €0.50 from each booking until the
PayPal.
end of September and of course every-
You
5
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Cruising in Cartagena By Russ Pearce
www.anythingbutpaella.com Cartagena makes a great day out from the Costa Blanca. It has many wonderful museums and ancient sites to explore. The only problem is that for most of the year, the weather is just too good to spend time indoors! So, after wandering the streets for a while and cooling down with a drink outside one of the many bars, what can you do? Well, take a ride aboard the tourist boat which takes you on a whistlestop tour of the bay in just under an hour. Just grab a ticket from the booth on the harbour front and jump on the next departure which should leave promptly on the hour. As the boat goes around the bay there is an informative audio commentary. It’s pretty good if your Spanish is up to scratch, but if it isn’t, you’ll have to wait for the English translation. This isn’t quite as clear and you might find yourself facing away from what is being described by the time you hear it. That was about the only downside to the whole experience aside from having the misfortune to be on a tour with about 15 three-year-olds and their accompanying families!! As you travel around the bay it is amazing to learn just how many fortifications there are. Some are obvious while others are rather well hidden. There are two archways in the side of a hill which look as though they should be secretive submarine bases. That is in fact exactly what they were designed to be, but they were never completed! They ended up being used just for storage. It is possible to get off at the Fuerte de Navidad (why oh why did they translate it? The Christmas Fort just doesn’t sound the same!) and spend an hour exploring there while you wait for the next boat. It is certainly worth a visit but it might be easier to drive round to it rather than restricting your time by taking the boat. To get your land legs back after the tour, a stroll around the harbour area is in order. There are some excellent sculptures to admire including a whale’s tail and an enormous man who looks deep in concentration sat on the ground. There are also many options when it comes to cooling off with some liquid refreshment. If, after all of this, you still want to go to the museums, don’t miss the Roman Amphitheatre, the Naval Museum, the Military Museum, the Civil War Air Raid Shelter and the Underwater Archaeology Museum.
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632
Around Algorfa: Montemar Castle
With Sandra Piddock
Spain is popularly called ‘The Land of Castles.’ In fact, some people
Navy before becoming Captain General of Cartagena. King Car-
say this is why the Spanish national language is also called Castil-
los V was so impressed that in 1790 he made him Count of the
ian. Indeed, there are some beautiful castles around Spain – some
Red House (Condado de Casa Rojas) and Viscount of Recano de La
old, some ancient and some fairly new ones. They’ve been put to
Torre. The naval connection extended for several more generations,
all sorts of purposes over the years, both military and recreational,
with the Rojas family serving king and country with distinction.
and most of them stand proudly on top of the highest hills. These
There is a tenuous connection here, because the family name – Ro-
days, there are not too many pirates or marauding Moors around,
jas – means ‘red’ in Spanish, but that’s as close as it gets.
and they are mostly museums or summer residences for the Span-
The Red Count lived to the grand old age of 93, and his children
ish nobility or entrepreneurs.
and grandchildren and their families owned the castle and the surrounding farm for around 150 years, using it mainly as a summer
Here in Algorfa, we have our own castle. If you’re driving from La
residence. It was certainly an upmarket holiday home, with its four
Finca to Quesada or Los Montesinos, you can’t miss it. Perched high
towers – two circular and two square – complete with battlements.
on a hill to the south of the village, and gleaming bright against
And the various Counts could top up their tans and survey the
the brilliant blue of the sky, it’s a beautiful sight. It’s also given rise
surrounding countryside from the tops of the towers, as they were
to a long standing urban myth. When we first enquired about the
all easily accessible. It was private, too, with the square courtyard
ownership of the castle soon after we moved here, we were told
being surrounded by a first floor gallery.
it was owned by Mick Hucknall, of Simply Red fame. It seemed quite feasible because, despite the lyrics of one of their well known
Montemar Castle in its heyday must have been magnificent – in
songs, Money is definitely not Too Tight to Mention.
fact it still is, at least from the outside. However, at the end of the Civil War, the Rojas family were forced to sell the castle, and it was
I quite fancied having a rock star for a neighbour, although I’m
unwanted and unloved until the current owners took possession of
not a big fan of Simply Red, but alas, it’s not true, although he
it in the 1970s, as Franco’s dictatorship came to an end.
does apparently have a holiday home in Benijofar. The castle is
So, although Montemar Castle is not owned by Mick Hucknall, its
actually owned by a wealthy Spanish family, and has been since
owners have ensured that it’s Holding Back the Years by lovingly
the 1970s – when Mick was still at school and probably couldn’t
restoring it to its former glory. Sorry – I just couldn’t resist that
have stretched to buying a castle in Spain, even with a good pa-
parting shot!
per round and generous pocket money. The owners have carried out extensive renovations, maintaining the original French building
Image credits: Castle photo Turivega http://www.convega.com/portalturis-
style while adapting the interior and making it less grand and more
mo/ingles/algorfa/ver.html
family friendly. This saved the castle from becoming a ruin, after
Vista Castle and Algorfa Joan Banjo https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/
an uncertain period following its sale at the end of the Spanish Civil
File:Vista_del_castell_de_Montemar_d%27Algorfa.JPG
War, when it had a succession of owners before being restored to its former glory. Montemar Castle was built towards the end of the 18th century, and its first owner was Don Jose Pedro de Rojas and Recano. Born in 1702 in Cadiz, he enjoyed a distinguished career in the Spanish
11 11
Are you ready... for LIFE on the Med’? Thinking about living in Spain? Here´s some advice from the experts to make sure you´re ready!
Spain: Fast Facts Population: 43,484,000 Capital: Madrid; 5,145,000 Area: 505,988 square kilometers (195,363 square miles) Language: Castilian Spanish, Catalan, Galician, Basque Religion: Roman Catholic Currency: Euro Life Expectancy: 79 GDP per Capita: U.S. $21,200 Literacy Percent: 98 Spain occupies most of the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe, and its territory includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic. Much of the mainland is high plateau, with mountain ranges, including the Pyrenees, in the north. The plateau experiences hot summers and cold winters—it is cooler and wetter to the north. About 200 B.C. the Romans occupied this crossroads between Europe and Africa. Moors invaded in A.D. 711, ruling for almost 800 years before Christian armies routed them. Enriched by its New World empire, Spain dominated Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries; today it rules only the North African territories of Ceuta and Melilla. Gen. Francisco Franco wielded power from 1936 until his death in 1975, when Juan Carlos became king. Three years later a new constitution confirmed Spain as a parliamentary monarchy. After 1986, when the Socialist Party under Felipe González Márquez led Spain into the European Union, the economy grew faster than any other member nation’s. Yet the government’s pro-business policies in the 1990s were blamed for widening the gap between rich and poor and for the bankruptcy of noncompetitive industries—all contributing to high unemployment. Separatist agitation
12
born of historical regional differences, most pronounced in the Basque country and in Catalonia, still challenges national unity, but a strong national peace movement has developed to counteract terrorist activities. Unemployment continues to be a problem, but levels have improved from previous points. Spain is one of the European Union nations participating in the euro currency. ECONOMY Industry: Textiles and apparel, food and beverages, metals and metal manufactures, chemicals Agriculture: Grain, vegetables, olives, wine grapes; beef; fish Exports: Machinery, motor vehicles, foodstuffs, other consumer goods
So what should you do..? Keep it simple and plan ahead. It’s easy to get excited and leave things to the last minute (or think that it will be easier to sort things out while you relax in Spain) but with a few emails or calls you can get your new life abroad off to a hassle-free beginning by just following a simple few tips from lawyers and expats: Sort your UK affairs: An important matter that often gets overlooked is does your UK passport and Driving licence have enough time left on it or will it expire early on in your new Spanish life - which could be at least one less thing for you to deal with when you are trying to get to grips with your new life abroad. And how about a bank account in your home country? You may wish to keep one open and register for on-line banking. Language: Obviously you will learn more when you are on Spanish soil but try to spend as some time taking lessons whilst
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you are still in the UK. Oh, and buy a good phrasebook and a good dictionary but my best tip is to watch Spanish movies with your own language subtitles - I found it very helpful when I was learning the language. Work: What's the plan? - Can you find work in Spain? Don’t assume, do your very best to find something before you arrive or at the very least have interviews lined up for when you do arrive. If you plan to look around when you get here, great, but make sure you have enough to live on until that job comes along. Read online publications for the area you plan to live in, call ahead, be pro-active and you'll get results for sure! Healthcare: If you plan to be working legally in Spain then you will be entitled to Free State Healthcare and if you are coming to live in Spain to enjoy your retirement you can ask your representative to arrange to have your entitlement transferred from your home country to Spain. IF neither of those applies then you will need to arrange private health insurance because even if you are an EU Citizen (with or without an EHIC card) you cannot just assume that you will be covered. Legalities: Your legal representative will ask you for all the documentation that they can prior to your move over so that they can make your life as hassle free as possible for when you do get to Spain. Just some of the things they will be able to arrange for you will include, NIE number Residencia Padrón School applications Healthcare Vehicle Importation Opening a Bank account Currency Exchange: It's a good idea to open an account in advance and is just more of those little things that your lawyer in Spain can sort out very quickly for you, and opening an account doesn't mean that you have any obligation to exchange any
money with them. Accommodation: If you are planning to buy a property in Spain you will be making several visits no doubt to your chosen area and a good tip is to find out as much about it as possible - online resources are amazing these days!, Obviously the same applies if you are looking to rent, or moving over here specifically to look for somewhere to buy, although you can move on to another area a little quicker and with less paperwork of course. Try and be open minded about areas and types of property that you would consider Spain is a different country and a change in lifestyle - what works for you in your home country nay not work as well here., For example, many have moved to Spain with a fixed idea that they want an old Finca in the countryside, but a few years (usually months) down the line some realise that the dream is not quite the reality - and vice versa with town people finding Spanish towns perhaps too small or busy...we all change a little abroad so try and leave it as open as possible until you look around. Fiestas: Once or twice every year your local town will go a little crazy for a week or so with their fiestas. Based on religion but now more ceremonial and traditional they are an amazing sight and you should try to join inn with the locals as much as you can - you'll be welcomed into the community with open arms after that! A few things to think about that will make the final move over that much simpler and don't forget that if you get your legal representative to do it they will ask you for all the documents they need to get your life in Spain off to a nice, and worry free start!
More advice and help in next month´s mag!
13 13
Gran Alacant
Cut out & KEEP!
n i a r T t s i r u o T Bus & ables & Maps Timet
Summer 2016
Getting around... Gran Alacant Beach Bar
Los Arenales del Sol
a Avd
et
lan Cata
PANORAMA
COSTA HISPANIA
NOVABEACH
Avda
NOVAMAR
VICTORIA
MePLAYA diter rane ALTOMAR o 1
andinavia Avda Esc MARKET ALTOMAR EVERY 2 THURS
DON PUEBLO
CANARIAS MONTE Y MAR
MEDITERRANEO POLONIA
MONTE Y MAR
Avda Noruega
via Avda Escandina
MONTE Y MAR
CHALETS
MONTE Y MAR
Av d
aN
or
SAN SEBASTIAN ISLA
a
d Av
o
ne
rra
ite
d Me
MONTE FARO
ue
N-332 IZARO
14
POST OFFICE
SERENAS
ga
PUERTO MARINO
Avda Catalanet
OLIVIO DEL ORO
CARABASI
Town Hall Health Centre Library
URBANISATIONS
N-332
EL FARO
LOMAS DEL CARABASI BALCONES DEL MAR
BRISA MAR (Csas nuevas)
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A new book by long term expat and author Malcolm Palmer is out soon on Amazon...keep an eye out for it, it´s a cracker!
Automate your toldo with a motor from only €67.76 inc IVA
About the author Malcolm Palmer by Dave Bull
Malcolm Palmer is one of those rare people who lives a very Spanish lifestyle, just mention his beloved Real Madrid, but remains an authentic Englishman. His skills, of which he is often self deprecating, are many - from being an acknowledged authority on bird watching to sitting at a cold Estadio José Rico Pérez reporting on Hercules Club de Futbol for a newspaper. he´s lived a life, a wonderfully diverse, and at times hair-raising, life (you´ll see...), one that he has finally written down in his own inimitable style for us to experience too. One thing for sure, through the the whole book, you just know Malc was smiling as he typed the words.
I started writing a few years ago and although I´m not a household name I´ve managed to make a living out of it when necessary – if I hadn´t met Malcolm Palmer my life would certainly be different. When I started publishing my magazine in 2003 I needed people who could actually write legible, and often witty, articles on life in Spain as an expat. As I had no experience in writing I turned to Malc and, having seen the quality (and often unique perspective) of his words, I was immediately inspired to pick up the pen and have a go – I love it, and still do. So I thank him here for giving me years of enjoyment doing something I love, and for condemning me to a lifetime of earning bugger all... Thanks Malc. x
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Holidays...
Mandy Tams on life and disasters and breaking stuff... Travel Clothes
a large dalmatian stripped down to the waist with the top half of its skin hanging loose and wearing a t-shirt saying
Do you remember when taking a flight somewhere was
something about good and bad girls in Benidorm. I realised
considered posh; one even bought new clothes for the
I must say something to hubby and plead with him not to
plane like a going away dress for honeymoon. How things
lock me away. He normally travels around in his own little
have changed. Now the honeymoon is before the wedding,
world, so this was going to be a bit of a shock when I tell
as are the children, but who am I to complain. No hot
him rabbits, cows and dalmatians are wandering about the
towels on landing, or sweets on take-off. No posh clothes
airport, but I braved my decision out by digging him in
in case our pickle sandwiches or coffee manages to leap
the ribs. He turned, I jerked my thumb to the dalmatian
down our fronts as we won’t pay the ridiculous prices for
across the aisle and smiled gritting my teeth and nodding
on board food and drink, as most benefits don’t cover it.
my head in the hopes he will understand my gestures and
But now there is a new trend.
look, but no, he turns back and talks to Angie while patting my knee like a child. I almost expected him to say ‘Ssh
Day one, traveling to Spain didn’t go too well, or two to
now and go to sleep.’ Suddenly while the two of them sit
six. I arrived poorly bad, for those that don’t understand
back, eyes closed, while the plane fills I cannot believe my
Stoke, I was badly, and for those that don’t understand
eyes as the rabbit, this time, his skin is flapping loose and
Yorkshire or only understand Spanish, I was mal, mal, mal.
he has a chest like Thor, naked and muscled. I nudged An-
It all began with a throat infection which under normal
gie and point, she gasps and grins, I am relieved, or is she
circumstances should have stopped me flying, but my
admiring his chest, I don’t know. I ask tentatively, ‘did you
sister-in-law, Angie, only three days before we came away,
see that rabbit?’ She looked puzzled and peered out of the
booked herself on our flight.
window. ‘No’ I said, there he’s just passed us. She leans forward to look and then back at me. ‘Are you alright?’ she
She also needed accommodation with us for two nights be-
asks, in a nursey style voice, touching my forehead with
fore her family in Spain could collect her, so we felt obliged
the back of her hand.
to get on the plane. At first, not feeling well I began to believe I was hallucinating because sitting down at the
‘Just look will you, a giant rabbit and a dalmatian are on
airport with hubby and Angie, I spied a large brown rabbit,
the plane, and a cow is wandering through the airport.’
and I mean large approx. 5’ 10’’. He caught my eye and
At this point, the rabbit stood up to get his bag from the
smiled, and I swear he twitched his ears. I stuck my finger
overhead locker, and we hadn’t even taken off yet. An-
in my ear to take my temperature, but it didn’t work. I
gie nearly wet herself and so did I, with relief, when we
tried to ignore him, I was taking heavy medication, but
realised these huge animals are adult style, real people,
thoughts of James Stewart and Harvey raced in my head.
travelling from East Midlands to Spain … in their onesies. Now, I am no fashionista, my idea of getting dressed up is
Is this it, am I finally losing my senses? I said nothing,
putting on my best trainers, but to travel in one’s onesie,
but tried not to stare while he tapped away on his laptop.
when did I miss this new trend. I have checked ‘Vogue’
Finally, after agreeing to have a glass of wine, they called
and ‘All Abroad’, both full of useful information, but no,
our flight. I peered gingerly over Angie’s shoulder; the
this trend is too new for them.
rabbit had left, but all was not well, a cow wandered past carrying a bag shaped liked an udder. Things began to get
I must admit, I was never so happy to collapse in bed,
scary. I nudged Angie trying to catch her attention, but
after arriving at our apartment, where I stayed for a few
by this time her diazepam and wine had started to do the
days recovering, but I did check with Angie that I hadn’t
trick, she hates flying and prefers to float on board and all
dreamt or hallucinated, she re-assured me I hadn’t. Why
the way to Spain, no plane required.
on earth do people travel in onesies? Heaven knows if they are not under two, but there you go ... I just love people
We boarded at the rear of the plane and I realised I was either ill or had lost my marbles because next to me was
17
The Motorbike by Sandra Piddock
By the time you read this, Dave and Mitch
Spain along the way, and meeting up with
as they ride around Spain, and Ali Meehan,
Bull will be knocking spots off the 7,500 kilo-
people from all walks of life in Spain to pub-
founder of business and social networking or-
metres they will cover as they ride around
licise the challenge and raise as much money
ganisation Costa Women, is helping to organ-
Spain to raise funds for cancer research and
as possible along the way. And they’ll take in
ise meals, drinks and places to stay.
raise awareness of the work of Samaritans
the border of Portugal too, as well as calling
in Spain. To put it all into perspective, by
into Gibraltar. And Jared the Bear, from Star
Historian and broadcaster Simon Harris wel-
the time they return to their homes in Gran
Bright Angels, will be riding pillion in memory
comed the boys to Barcelona and chatted to
Alacant on 20th October, they’ll have ridden
of children lost to cancer.
them on ‘This Week in Catalonia’ on Barce-
the equivalent of two return trips from Ali-
After 9 months of planning and pleading,
lona City FM Radio. Barcelona is famous for
cante to Calais. And the boys are not tak-
all the costs for the trip have been covered
Gaudi’s architecture, but there wasn’t much
ing the easy route either – motorways are
by the generosity of both business and pri-
time for the boys to appreciate it, although
off limits, and only coastal roads and border
vate sponsors, and this will be acknowledged
they did call in at Cadaques, where Salvador
routes will be used. Each day, Dave and Mitch
everywhere they go by the colourful stickers
Dali lived with his wife Gala. So they enjoyed
will ride 375 kilometers, which is like driving
the Bull Boys will be sporting on their bikes.
a bit of art and culture before spending three
from London to York, with a bit more thrown
As well as taking in the sights as they go,
days travelling through the natural beauty of
in for luck, so with just two scheduled rest
Dave and Mitch will be meeting up with locals
the Pyrenees. For those who’d prefer a more
days in Seville and Granada, that’s a lot of
and chatting on local media about the jour-
leisurely exploration of the border between
riding. Essential luggage and equipment will
ney. And it will all be updated daily on social
France and Spain, there are lots of camp sites
add 50 kilos to the weight on the bikes, so
media, so wherever you are in Spain you can
and hotels to choose from.
this is a real challenge in all senses of the
share the journey.
Pamplona is famous for the Festival of San Fermin – the running of the bulls – so it’s a
word. They’ll be visiting most of the major cities in
18
With a budget of just €5 a day each for
fitting place for the boys on the other Bull
food, the guys will be glad of any hospitality
Run to touch base. It’s also a major stop-
e Challenge is underway! Sponsors (when we went to print)
ping place on the Camino de Santiago pilgrim
it counts!
trail, so there’s plenty to occupy anyone who
The final week of the Motorbike Challenge
doesn’t have to drive 375 kilometers a day.
sees Dave and Mitch ride through Malaga to
1.
Club Cars
As the boys leave the Pyrenees behind and
Granada for another rest day. They’ll be get-
2.
Coys Car Hire
head into Basque country, they’ll visit San
ting saddle sore by this point, as they make
3.
Cyclogical
Juan de Gaztelugatxe, a hermitage on an is-
their way through Almeria to historic Carta-
4.
Global Furniture Outlet
let on the coast of Biscay. The stunning views
gena, which dates back to 227 BC and has
5.
Idaho Horse Therapy
should be enough to even render Dave Bull
an illustrious naval history. Then it’s through
6.
GiGi´s
speechless for a while! Then it’s on to Bilbao,
Murcia, and up to Mar Menor. The boys could
7.
SLP Quesada
and a posible visit to the Guggenheim Muse-
take advantage of the therapeutic mud baths,
8.
Quesada Rental Centre
um, before the boys head for Galicia and A
but with Torrevieja and a meeting with repre-
9.
Quesada Computers
10.
Sheena- Nails
Coruna.
sentatives of sponsors Coy Cars less than an
11.
Zafiro Tours
hour’s ride away, maybe it’s not such a good
12.
Pam @ Johnsons Supermarket Quesada
idea to roll in the smelly mud first!
13.
Halcyon Furniture
Mitch will be in Madrid, before heading for
14.
Vincents Estate Agents
Badajoz in Extremadura. The town is close
The Motorbike Challenge couldn’t have hap-
15.
Grannet
to the Portuguese border, and it’s the larg-
pened without the generosity and support of
16.
Hamiltons Bakery
est province in Spain. If history is your thing,
our sponsors and supporters, so big thanks
17.
Mist Quesada
you’ll love the Arab walls and monuments
to everyone listed here especially Dave Diggle
18.
GA Construction
here. After Badajoz, it’s on to Huelva, fol-
from Blacktower Financial Services who start-
19.
Webster´s Bar
lowed by a well-earned rest in Seville. Then
ed it all off by supplying the tee shirts back
20.
GA Services
Gibraltar calls, via La Linea. Okay, it’s strictly
in March.
21.
Goldcar Club
22.
Spanish Insurance Quesada
23.
Unilingo Translation Services
Halfway through the Challenge, Dave and
British, but it’s still part of mainland Spain, so
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Motorcycle Challenge 2016 Itinerary Tuesday 27 Sept Depart from Elche. Visit Paco Soqueta in Oliva. Stay around Valencia. Wednesday 28 Sept Depart from Valencia. Stay around Barcelona. Thursday 29 Sept Depart from Valencia. Stay around Cadaques. Friday 30 Sept Depart from Cadaques. Travel in Pyrenees. Saturday 1 Oct Travel in Pyrenees. Possibly visit Andorra. Sunday 2 Oct Travel in Pyrenees. Stay around Pamplona. Monday 3 Oct Depart from Pamplona. Visit San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Stay around Bilbao. Tuesday 4 Oct Depart from Bilbao. Stay around Gijón. Wednesday 5 Oct Depart from Gijón. Stay around A Coruña. Thursday 6 Oct Depart from A Coruña. Stay around A Paratxe. Friday 7 Oct Depart from A Paratxe. Stay around Zamora (or carry on to Madrid.) Saturday 8 Oct Travel from Zamora to Madrid. Stay in Madrid. Sunday 9 Oct Return to Zamora. Monday 10 Oct Depart from Zamora. Stay around Badajoz. Tuesday 11 Oct Depart from Badajoz. Stay around Huelva. Wednesday 12 Oct Depart from Huelva. Travel to Sevilla for rest day. Thursday 13 Oct Depart from Sevilla. Stay around La Linea and visit Gibraltar. Friday 14 Oct Depart from La Linea. Stay around Malaga. Saturday 15 Oct Depart from Malaga. Travel to Granada for rest day. Sunday 16 Oct Depart from Granada. Stay around Almería. Monday 17 Oct Depart from Almería. Stay around Cartagena. Tuesday 18 Oct Depart from Cartagena. Stay around Murcia. Wednesday 19 Oct Depart from Murcia. Stay around Mar Menor or San Javier. Thursday 20 Oct Depart from Mar Menor or San Javier. ARRIVE IN GRAN ALACANT
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10WHEN MOVING TO SPAIN
THINGS YOU CAN LEAVE AT HOME
Stress. When you come to live in Spain you can really relax. I’m not just talking about chilling out on a beach, around a pool or even by diving into a pint! No, what I mean is the pace of life here is different, and famously so. You may have heard people say, ‘it’s all manana over there’ and it is. And the best thing about that is that as soon as you accept things are down in a more relaxed manner here you’ll find yourself wondering why you ever got stressed before. Winding down after a sunny day, listening to the cicadas hugging trees and emitting their trill evening message along with a fine bottle (or two) of local wine is not a scenario expats ever tire of. Your suit. Whether, like me, you drag one out for weddings and funerals or have had to wear one for work purposes, when you arrive in Spain you won’t be needing that anymore, trust me. Smart casual is about as dressed up as people ever expect, or even want in Spain. Daytimes (and for about 330 days each year) the dress code is ‘keep it simple’ - shorts, sandals and T-shirt are the norm, whether for an evening out or a day on the beach. Leave the trouser press and the tie-rack in the UK…unless of course you like your trunks with a crease…? Your preconceptions about Spain. Forget what you see on documentaries and other TV shows about Spain and come and see for yourself because far from being ‘Blackpool by the sea’ Spain is a huge, diverse country. Rich in history (and wines…) it has often had a reputation as a resort full of Brits, but come on over and take a look at this magnificent country through your own eyes, experience the tradition, the kindness, the family life and the climate (have I mentioned the wines…?). Now with some of the best roads in Europe (and definitely the best beaches) you can explore and experience Spain form your base wherever that may be, and see the real Spain (your Spain) for yourself. The instant coffee. Once you have tasted the superb range of coffees available in Spain (drinking coffee in Spain is an occasion to be savoured and spent time on) you won’t be wanting that stuff that comes in a jar claiming to be the ‘real taste’ and offering you a funny handshake. With a snifter of brandy alongside you’ll witness many a local enjoying his breakfast coffee seated at a bar and shouting (over a TV) to someone a few feet away. It may take ten minutes for your coffee to arrive, but don’t fret – enjoy it – your coffee will arrive, and what’s the rush? Served with a smile and possibly a ‘Tapa’ to tide over those hunger pangs for a while…and not a funny hand-shake in sight. The plan B. I remember organising barbecues, parties for my son (or for us parents) when I lived in the UK and we always had to have a plan B. why? The wonderfully unpredictable British weather is the reason as I’m sure you know already. How many times have you been to a barbecue in someone’s garden only for the heavens to open and everyone ends up in the kitchen! In Spain that just doesn’t happen. Now I’m not saying that it never rains in Spain (especially on the plains…?) but 99 times out of a hundred, when you plan something like a party or barbecue in Spain – it happens, because, more often than not the good ol’ sun is shining, again. So come on over, make some plans and forget about a ‘what if’ and just think of when.
Everyone else. Now I’m not saying forget the family and disconnect yourself from your friends - who will no doubt be very good friends now that you have a property in Spain and will soon visit, and soon. But when you come to live in Spain you’ll soon realise that the expat community in Spain is full of people who have ‘been there and done it’ as far as being new to these shores is concerned and who are always willing to help out, and make you welcome. It’s daunting enough arriving and trying to set up home especially in a new country, but amongst the expats you’ll find help, guidance and some very good company with which to make the move so much more enjoyable. Expats are a breed that look out for each other and help out (if needed of wanted) and they’re always a cheerful bunch…well wouldn’t you be living here…? The lawn mower Spain doesn’t do grass very well so trade in your lawn-mower for a far more handier gadget in Spain, say a drinks cooler or an all-singing barbecue for the patio. You see unless you’re going to pretty much dedicate your hours awake every day to tend to grass that for ten months of the year is being frazzled then flog the mower before you come and worry about your new weekly chore – in charge of a leaf blower…far more fun. All those ‘must have’ British essentials. No longer are Brits stuffing their suitcases with pork pies and industrial packs of bacon as was the norm a few years ago. Now with an abundance of British supermarkets and with the big boys such as Carrefour and Mercadona have taken note that their customer base is far more international these days and their stock now reflects that with items such as PG Tips and cheddar cheese commonly available in the traditionally Spanish-stocked shops. Everything that you can get back in the UK is now pretty much available in Spain…except perhaps for the winter flu… The blinkers. If you’re only experience of ‘Johnny Foreigner’ is on holiday or in your local newsagent then get ready for some eye-opening experiences. Spain is now multi-cultural and living amongst other northern Europeans as well as South Americans, Africans and the odd Aussie (they get everywhere don’t they?) means that new cultures are often brought to the public’s attention through shows and exhibitions. The Africans with their wares on sale at beachfronts –displayed on a blanket – are a marvel to witness as they go about their work creating amazing pieces of art from leather, wood or the occasional cola can. Enjoy the cultures that will intersect with your life in Spain – it’s a whole new world out here! The socks. Now, I may need to be a little delicate here but, if you are a gentleman of a certain age and believe that socks should be worn at all times (out of bed) you will need to refine your self-discipline just a tad – to benefit fully from the Spanish climate, and to stop your children dying of embarrassment. What am I talking about? Well, I’m afraid it’s the old socks and sandals ‘fashion’ that seems to be unique to northern Europeans – can you imagine Julio Iglesias wearing socks with sandals? No, I didn’t think so and your wife probably thinks he’s a Latin Adonis, so why not make yourself one….and it must start with leaving the socks behind!
21
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