All Abroad August edition 2016

FR

www.allabroad.es

August 2016 issue number 61

EE

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fo r th e lo ca ls. ..b y th e lo ca ls. .!

2

Take my tip for August...make like a dog.

Welcome to the August edition of All

in the space of a few hours and the

Abroad in what is sure to be a ´scor-

bars and restaurants make the most

chio´ month! The seas are full of

of the busiest time of the year…I don’t

swimmers, and sharks in Arenales –

know about you but after a couple of

now you don’t get that everywhere do

‘cool ones’ I tend to follow the dog’s

you? The beaches are packed at this

example.

time of year too, and those Spanish

Graham Basset is at it again, growing

don’t mind get up close and personal

huge vegetables – take a look at these

on the beach don’t they. One of my

beauties:

ex-mother in law´s was down there

Giant onions .Sown November, Larg-

just the other day, somehow she´s

est = 7lb in weight. He will be aiming

squeezed herself in to a leotard swim-

to reach 10lb next year following a bit

suit, enjoying the beach (she takes up

more homework and preparation.

ALL ABROAD

www.allabroad.es

reaakk!! bre TTaakkee aa b with

quite a bit of it) but decided to make a move when some Japanese whaling boats appeared on the horizon with crew excitedly pointing in her direction…

It’s that time of the year when the dog becomes a rug and doesn´t move for twenty three hours each day, and the cats are so laid back they fall off the wall while sleeping – twice up our street this month! People turn pink

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Advertising hotline! 606 540 408 - TAKE UP OUR OFFER!

by Ele Draper RUNNING A BUSINESS IN SPAIN Running a business in Spain is much the same as it is back where you come from, with the additional hurdle of the language. But sit tight while I have a rant.

Don’t go in half-baked Don’t go into running a business in Spain without believing 100 per cent in what you will accomplish. Lose the “can do” attitude by setting yourselves head and shoulders above everyone else with your “will do” approach.

Don’t underestimate the effort. You’ll need to be prepared for some pretty horrific working hours. If starting your business from scratch, you’ll need to be able to work 25 hours per day, 8 days per week... and say goodbye to any time off for a while. You’ll need a level of energy that isn’t swayed by a footie game or a hangover from a big night out. Slacking is for losers and won’t help you as you throw caution to the wind and build your empire.

Ignore the haters Sadly there is always someone who is either jealous of what you are achieving, or feels threatened by your “intrusion” into “their” industry. Ignore them!! Put all your energy into building YOUR business... not into worrying about what others may be saying about you.

Be the better person and ignore them. Yes, I know that’s tough - and sometimes I’ll admit to going hell for leather at some petty person who thinks they can cast aspersions. They only do it once, mind. So if you ARE going on the attack - do it calmly, politely, and leave no reason for doubt in anyone’s mind.

Know who/what you are Owning a power drill and a fistful of screws, because you once put a shelf up at Granny’s house, does not make you a builder. Having bought a house once does not make you an Estate Agent. Having published the parish magazine once in “Publisher” does not make you the perfect owner of the next “Spain” magazine. Whipping up a one-pager on WIX does not make you a web designer - so don’t try to kid others that it does. Be honest with yourself and with others.

Perhaps you pulled a few pints down at your local on a Saturday night back in the day - do you really think you have what it takes to run a bar fifteen streets back from The Strip? Juggling the finances? Speaking Spanish to your suppliers? Working from 7am until 4am every day of the week? Handling the menopausal outbursts and drama from the peroxide old bird you inherited when you took over the

business? Stopping the resident sweaty “chef” from scratching his balls as he brings out another Full English? Manhandling the lobster red tourist who didn’t realise those shots of gin were quite so large? Think carefully before making the leap. We can pretty much guarantee that you won’t be sat outside sipping ice cold beers while your busty 21-year-old barmaid does it all for you and the Euros keep rolling in.

You are not a successful businessperson if it’s a two hour a week jolly up the local wine bar with a few others... lighting candles, praying to the universe, telling each other how empowered and wonderful you all are, dishing out your badly faded business cards you whipped up in Word... and spending your spouse’s hard-earned money - all while bringing in zero clients. That’s not running a successful business - that’s a hobby. There’s nothing wrong with that of course - but it doesn’t make you Sir Alan Sugar or Deborah Meaden.

Just don’t assume you have the right to stand shoulder to shoulder with the many men and women that shed blood sweat and tears to put food on their families tables and keep the wolves from the door... when the worst you have to worry about is where your next handbag is coming from or what to call your latest fluffy kitten.

Get your face out there Networking IS key though! When we first moved to Spain, we spent at least one day/ night out every week meeting people socially and getting our faces known around time.

This is vital because people do business with people... and much business comes from recommendation. Although we get the Spain Buddy name out wherever we can, we have not had to advertise our ten year web design business in many years - all our work comes from recommendation or because people like what they see of other projects we have been part of. Get out there and make friends - they will be your biggest fans... and later on your happy clients will be your biggest advertisers.

Always have a few business cards in your wallet, back pocket or (if you’re anything like me) tucked into your bra strap.

But remember - you are always the face of your business... so watch how you conduct yourself. I was about to say, “Don’t get too drunk too often. Don’t hog the karaoke. And don’t be too in your face straight away.” But hey - that worked for me so I won’t knock it. These days, my networking is a lot more civilised. Yes of course the wine still flows and

of course I’m always up for a laugh - but you’ll never find me rolling in a gutter. When alcohol flows, inhibitions relax and true colours are shown. If you are a nutcase when sozzled... remember that this can be the first impression that some people will form about you. Are you okay with that?

Be legal Whether you choose to be self-employed or set up as a company... make sure you are legal. There is much to be said for hiring an Asesoria, Gestoria or Abogado to take care of your accounts and business affairs. Yes they cost money - but they will save you a fortune by ensuring that everything is as it should be.

Choose your legal bod by taking recommendations from people close to where you live and operate. But go with your gut. Since moving to Spain we’ve had four Asesorias. Two were awful and two have been excellent! They all came via recommendation though - so what do I know?! What we did learn though, is that it’s worth paying a little more and having somebody who you can trust.

Build or buy?

If you have super-duper skills in your industry, have been there before, and have full confidence in your own marketing abilities - then go for it and start something from scratch yourself. However - a lot must be said for buying an existing business. You will have access to existing clients, an established reputation, and perhaps some stock too dependent upon the business type. There are plenty available.

It’s just a matter of finding what works for you and rolling with it.

Don’t be swayed Look - if you’re really up for it... then don’t let anyone put you off. Speaking personally, I found it terrifying when first building a business from scratch and leaving the relative safety of a secure monthly employee wage.

But hell it’s worth it! There are good times and bad and you’ll need a strong stomach for the rollercoaster ride. But would I change any of it? No - not a damn thing! Follow your heart and the very best of luck to you!

Author: Elle Draper is one half of the duo that owns and runs www.spainbuddy.com - a website chock full of features and news around Spain. She loves wine, food, dogs and her husband... although not necessarily in that order.

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N

San Pedro

del Pinatar

By Russ Pearce

www.anythingbutpaella.com San Pedro del Pinatar and nearby Lo Pagan make a great day out because of their proximity to the Costa Blanca. Located just a few miles down the coast in the province of Murcia, it’s a must see location for the birds in and around the salt lakes, plus an opportunity to wallow in its glorious mud.

There are pools of water with a thick layer of slimy mud at the bottom which is rich in all sorts of minerals to cure your ailments. On a sunny day you will see many people slapping it on then drying out in the sun. Some even walk around caked in mud. It is a curious sight indeed.

As the song goes: “Mud, mud, glorious mud Nothing quite like it for cooling the blood So follow me follow, down to the hollow And there let me wallow in glorious mud.”

You can also walk for miles on a spit out into the Mar Menor admiring the wildlife and the newly restored windmills. With bicycles you could go much further. From the windmill on the shore to the one out at sea, it’s about a 50 minute moderate walk, so take care if you are doing it in the heat.

Don’t leave without having a closer look at the salt lakes. The giant mounds of salt at the side are an unusual sight in themselves, but when you see them next to a rich red lake, coloured by rich minerals, it is extraordinary. In some of the less salty pools you can get up close and personal with flocks of flamingos. To get so near to them is an amazing experience.

On a windy day, don’t be surprised to see some kite surfers and wind surfers braving the seas. If you can stand getting battered by the breeze, they can be quite entertaining to watch for a while.

And if you are an aircraft spotter, San Pedro del Pinatar is ideally positioned to see the planes landing and taking off (depending on the wind

direction) at Murcia’s San Javier airport.

If you are lucky you may even see the Patrulla Águila practicing.

Spain’s answer to Red Arrows are based there. Go soon though, before the new Corvera airport opens – OK then, perhaps there’s not really such a rush!

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Around Algorfa: Algorfa in August With Sandra Piddock

Algorfa becomes very lively in August, as the children break up from school and the holiday home owners head for the

Benejuzar and take in the views over Algorfa and the campo from the Ermita chapel. There’s always a cooling breeze up there, and

village. While Algorfa is a lovely peaceful place to live in or to spend your holiday, there’s also plenty going on for everyone, during the day and at night.

the small pine forest offers welcome shade from the hot August sunshine. It’s a great place to exercise your dog too.

If you like a bigger market, head to Zoco on Sundays, just off

Sporty stuff If you like to be active rather than lazing around on the beach,

Junction 745 of the AP7 motorway. Look for the signs for Torrevieja Norte – you’ll see all the cars in the market car park as you come off the motorway. Just follow the crowd and bag some bargains!

you’re well catered for in Algorfa. There’s the prestigious La Finca golf course, where resident professional Victor Andreu can help you to brush up your game. Just down the road from the Algorfa Hotel, about half way between La Finca Commercial Centre and the village, there’s the Club de Tenis de Almoradi, where you can get a

The Tavern Bar, Lo Crispin Gentlemen of a certain age can get a game of walking football with the team from the Lo Crispin Tavern at the Polideportivo from 4.00 – 5.00 pm on Mondays, and 10.30 am – 12 noon on Thursdays.

Head for the Astroturf pitch at the top of Calle Comunidad de Valen-

game of padel or tennis and swim in the beautiful indoor pool with the opening roof. Temporary membership is available – just call in and ask at reception. You can get an excellent Menu del Dia there for around €8 as well.

Algorfa also boasts a state of the art sports stadium – Polideportivo Juan Carlos 1 - with two Astroturf pitches, an all-purpose pitch and a fantastic outdoor swimming pool which is open from mid June to late September. When you’ve had enough swimming, relax on the grass under one of the sunshades, or slip across to El Chiringuito for a drink or something to eat. Admittance to the pool costs just €2 per adult and €1 for children under 12, and it’s open every day from 11.00 am to 8.00 pm. There’s a smaller children’s pool, and lifeguards are on duty during opening hours, so why not take along a picnic and make a day of it? There’s also a children’s play area

cia. You need to be over 55 to join in, and if you care to accompany the lads back to the Tavern for post match analysis, there’s tapas laid on courtesy of the owner David.

The Tavern also hosts weekend show nights, when you can enjoy a meal and top class entertainment for just €5 per person. And if you love a bargain – and who doesn’t? – the Tavern is hosting a Car Boot Sale followed by karaoke on Friday 26th August. Contact the Tavern if you’d like to book a table and sell your stuff.

Algorfa at night As well as a number of excellent Spanish and international restaurants, Algorfa’s many bars host quiz nights, bingo nights, varied entertainment and karaoke. Check out Restaurante Alquibla, Meson Algorfa, Bar La Plaza or Meson Viejo for typically Spanish fayre, or the award-winning Vestry Restaurant for a more international choice. Bar Badulake next to the Ayuntamiento serves excellent

close to the pool and the bar. The pool is closed on Mondays, and

tapas at lunch time and in the evenings. There’s also Debs’ Pizzeria

there may be swimming lessons taking place before midday, so plan your visit accordingly.

Markets Why not wander down to Algorfa one Wednesday morning and

if you fancy an Italian Job, and the Orange Tree Gastropub offers fine dining at sensible prices.

stock up on fruit and vegetables, or treat yourself to some new clothes from one of the stalls in the market off Calle Mayor. It’s a

There really is something for everyone. Algorfa may be small, but it’s perfectly formed, and it’s a great place to be in August – or in-

small market, but you can get virtually everything you want from there at bargain Spanish prices. Then stroll along in the direction of

deed any time of the year. If you’ve never been before, come and see us soon. You’re guaranteed a warm Spanish welcome.

Check out Algorfa this August, and see what you can find to enjoy.

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Who needs M&S when there's...

Kelly McLachlan

Come & meet

Notes from an ex expat!

HOLA AMIGOS ESPAÑOLES! The

Costa

del

Sol

de

The

SPECIALISTS

a sun hat for your child is another good one. Coming from Spain I had to smile to myself... inglaterra

The kids as we know break up for

Not as hot as the

the summer a little later than their

costas of Spain, but we’ve had our

Spainish couterparts, and so far we

warm days...must be summer.

haven’ t been to the beach yet, no.

is hot hot hot!

You

know it ’s hot when...

It ’s a well known fact that Brits You walk to the corner shop and in

here in Britain cannot cope with a

ten minutes you resemble a lobster.

heatwave.

Every customer who approaches the

andtraffic is a nightmare.

counter at work comments on the

come out to play.

heat (I know we Brits like talking

seafront route into town?

about the weather, but come ON...)

good idea when everyone else hap-

It ’s all over the news They all

Take the scenic Not a

pens to be thinking the very same I find myself saying things like:

thing. Nope.

“Twelve years in Spain and walked about in it, never burnt like this!”

Yep.

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Don’ t even get me started on hayfever!

Guess what the response is?

• Expert assessment of bra size & type

Not so much as a sniffle for

years and here I am, sneezing like

“Different heat.”

a good’un.

The slightest hint of the dark clouds

So all that aside, apart from work-

moving away and the whiff of bar-

ing, school runs and taxi runs for

beques is in the air

various family memebers, I have moved house.

Great location for

The parents at the school shave

the school, handy with family in the

their hair and get their tatts out...

area...happy days.

and that ’s the women.

I wish you all a very happy rest of Talking of the school, they tweet

summer. Stay safe out there.

parenting tips on a regular basis.

Things like advice on dressing your

Until next time

child for the heat, for example. Don

“Hasta luego”

‘t send your child in with a jumper.

Apply sun cream before they leave the house in the morning. Advising

Kelly

13 13

14

15

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Here we are again.

Mandy Tams on life and disasters and breaking stuff...

What a year so far, and not long now till Christmas. We

to take a photograph of the pig’s ear they made, so bad we

are leaving Europe, which I didn’t expect and I’m not

laughed, we didn’t need to cry because we had not parted with

sure I like the idea. The trouble is some spread so many

any money. I managed to contact the builder who booked them,

lies before the referendum and many are now struggling

he frog-marched them back by the earhole giving them a blast-

with the backstroke wondering if we can vote again. But

ing. I showed them what I wanted, 2 hours later and smart-

away with all that nonsense, the holiday season is here. I

ing, and after a few Spanish swear words, which I understood,

managed to buy my euros early expecting the markets to

thrown in my direction, job done lovely jubbly.

fluctuate which they did, lots of lolly to spend.

My boys can join us with pride. I tried to ‘WhatsApp’ them, no internet, email them, no internet. A Russian engineer built like

Another big event in my life is my career as a radio DJ died be-

a shot putter, whom we are now on first name terms with, says

fore getting a chance to take off. I am ready with discs to spin;

‘You need new router.’ He plugged one in, my boys are happy, I

having lessons on how to spin them, and the plug is pulled. All

am happy, husband, miserable as sin, but hey ho, when isn’t he

my signed photographs need returning now and the t-shirts with

lol.

my face on sent to countries in greater need to use as bird-scarers. My team of hand-picked professionals are now on the dole,

The holiday began in earnest and we are determined to enjoy,

will they still receive dole now we are non-European?

even though the clouds arrived and the rain fell. Oh to be me,

This also begs the question, will I need to queue again like the

and I never touched a thing, Dave.

old days to enter Spain at the passport office, after getting our

With my grown sons present I must show some decorum, no

all-time best time of 20 mins from landing to the exit, 10 mins

skinny dipping or topless sunbathing, so suitably bikini-bot-

later, bag down and in the pool, no messing?

tomed and t-shirt topped, my lads helped me into the sea, all well but big waves. With my two strapping men either side of

My holiday this year did not start well, we ordered awnings for

me, muscles like Garth and looks like Adonis, not the politician,

fitting over the balcony and down one side to break the wind

I am fearless. Anyhow we are enjoying our time when the waves

which can’t half whistle around the corner. We waited in great

became too rough for my liking and so the lads hang on as each

anticipation for the fitters to arrive; in fact 13 years. On the

mass of swirling water tries to knock me from their grasp, but

morning of their arrival, the electricity went off in the complex

at least I didn’t embarrass them with my boobs swaying in the

which means the car park gates cannot be accessed so the van

waves and knocking them over.

sat outside the complex with the driver wondering what to do because even if the gates worked their drills won’t; no leccy.

The embarrassment began when the waves took a liking to my

About to give up hope, eureka, the power came on and in they

bikini bottoms which I ended up losing on the final stretch, leav-

rush, looking proficient in t-shirts, tans, muscles, and shorts,

ing go of their arms to retrieve them and getting knocked flat

angle grinder at the ready to cut through my decorative plaster-

and rolled around in the sand, legs akimbo and fighting to pull

work above the balcony. Thinking they began well we left them;

my bikini up, never mind trying to breathe at the same time.

I mean how hard can it be? Two hours of drilling and cutting

My lads go home today, they treated us to smashing meals out,

passed before silence and a knock on the door. ‘We are finished

well done Don at the Phoenix, Mitch at La Piedra, terrific meals

but must come back, the new style runners don’t work, can you

thanks, not so impressed with hair in my soup at a well-known

pay now, please?’

posh restaurant which I won’t name, it isn’t fair, they didn’t

I said ‘no money until the job is completed,’ they looked crest-

charge me for the hair lol.

fallen and tried again with they didn’t know when they can come back, so can I please pay.

The sons leave me with all their washing and the cleaning up;

‘NO,’ says I. ‘No money until the job is finished.’ They began to

I love them dearly but now I need a holiday, cut the grass lads

gather their tools to leave while I sat down to use the internet

when you get back and see you in a couple of days. Roll on

and tell everybody my new awnings were here, only to find

September.

no internet. Obviously, a glitch thinks I, so I step out to examine the awnings, and that is when the problem jumped out and smacked me in the eye. I am only sorry I never managed

17

Gran Alacant - Santa Pola

Dog Beach

Neighbours and visitors are enjoying the first summer of the Santa Pola dog beach “Caleta dels Gossets”. Located below the lighthouse on Avenida de Catalanet (AKA Beach Road) near the CIMAR marine institute, the beach has sandy stretches as well as rocky areas. The calm, shallow waters are great place to go for a dip with your dog. The beach has great views of the lighthouse and the hang gliders as well as Tabarca During a recent interview with radio COPE ELCHE, Tourism Councillor Mercedes Landa declared the dog beach the cleanest beach in Santa Pola. Dog owners have been diligent about collecting and disposing of dog waste. In addition, the Asociacion de Propietarios de Mascotas de Santa Pola y Gran Alacant, the pet owners association of Santa Pola and Gran Alacant, (ASPETGA) in partnership with Proyecto Clean Beach held the first clean-up day at the dog beach in April.

To help you get maximum enjoyment from the dog beach, ASPETGA has put together the following guide Dog Beach Tips ·

Your dog needs to be microchipped in order to enjoy Santa Pola’s dog

beach. The town hall attendant will check with a scanner. He may also ask to see your dog’s vaccination records. Make a copy of the doggy passport and bring it with you. ·

The Santa Pola dog beach is an off lead area. Your dog can roam free-

ly. However, if your dog is classified as a PPP (potentially dangerous breed) he may go off lead on Santa Pola’s dog beach but he must wear a muzzle. ·

A collar or harness with an ID tag is a good idea

·

Take plenty of poo bags with you. There are bins on the beach and a

large bin on the road for disposal. No poo gets left behind. Bag it. Bin it. ·

Take plenty of clean, cool water for you and for Fido. Make sure your dog

drinks and stays hydrated. ·

It also a good idea to bring more water to rinse or wipe the sand off your

dogs at the end of the day. There are no showers at the Santa Pola dog beach.

The salt and sand can irritate their eyes. At minimum wipe down your dog’s face. A kitchen microfiber towel in a large ziplock bag with water and kept in the cooler works great for this. ·

Bring a beach towel or blanket for your dog. If the sand is hot and burns your

feet, it can also burn his paws. Give your friend a place to rest. ·

Sunscreen. You definitely need it and your dog might also. If you can see his skin

through his fur, your dog probably needs it. Yes, dogs can get a sunburn. ·

Don’t let your dog drink salt water. Some dogs like to drink salt water but it makes them

ill and can cause diarrhea and vomiting. In large amounts, it can lead to serious problems. Please know that if you are playing fetch

18

“tourism Councillor Mercedes Landa declared the dog beach the cleanest beach in Santa Pola...”

in the surf, your dog is probably ingesting small amounts of sea water. Tennis balls act like sponges and soak up the water. Consider a rubber ball or Frisbee instead. ·

Bring a parasol or sunshade. It gets hot on the beach and there is no

shade. ·

Don’t assume your dog can swim (or wants to) Some breeds like Lab-

rador Retrievers are born to swim. For others, like Yorkies, it does not come naturally. Also some dogs just are not interested and content playing in the shore break or making croquetas in the sand as the Spanish say. Do NOT force your dog into the water. It can be traumatic for some dogs. ·

Avoid choppy water or rough surf. Even dogs who are good swim-

mers can be overwhelmed or exhausted in rougher conditions. If it is a really windy day and the sea is choppy, rethink your plan to go to the beach. ·

If you are going to be boating, sailing or paddle boarding with your

dog, get him a life vest. The ones with a handle are really good because they make it easy to scoop your dog out of the water. ·

Keep an eye on your dog. You cannot simply let Fido loose on the

beach and then turn your attention to your book. A responsible owner is an engaged owner, is actively watching their dog and aware of their surroundings. ·

Don’t overdo it! Running on sand and swimming are strenuous ac-

tivities and the typical pampered pooch is not used to that level of activity.

Make sure your dog doesn’t overexert himself. ·

If your dog is not socialized, please keep him on the lead.

·

If you dog does not play well with others or is dog aggressive, skip

the beach. The Santa Pola dog beach gets crowded. There are other dogs and their owners enjoying the beach and better to avoid problems. ·

If your dog is in heat, do not bring her to the beach.

·

If your dog is an escape artist, please keep him on the lead. The Santa

Pola dog beach is not fenced. It is important that your dog has good recall and does not wander off. ·

Give your dog a bath when they get home to remove all the sand and salt.

Pay special attention to their ears. Sand in the ears bothers them a lot. Look them over for cuts and scrapes. There are rocks at the dog beach and sometimes they can sharp.

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Computer

help & advice

with

20

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Save energy by installing an awning AWNINGS

...

ning may also open to the sides or top to vent hot air.

Window awnings can reduce solar heat gain in the summer by up to 65% on south-facing windows and 77% on west-facing

You can roll up adjustable or retractable awnings in the winter to

windows. You can use an awning to shade one window or have an

let the sun warm the house. New hardware, such as lateral arms,

awning custom-made to shade the entire side of your house.

makes the rolling up process quite easy.

In the past, most awnings were made of metal or canvas, which

BLINDS

need to be re-covered every five to seven years. Today, awnings

Window blinds—vertical or horizontal slat-type—are more effective

are made from synthetic fabrics such as acrylic and polyvinyl

at reducing summer heat gain than winter heat loss.

laminates that are water-repellent and treated to resist mildew and fading. Whatever the fabric, you should choose one that is

EXTERIOR BLINDS

opaque and tightly woven. A light-colored awning will reflect more

Exterior roller blinds are usually made of wood, steel, aluminum,

sunlight.

or vinyl. They’re mounted above the window, and side channels guide them as they’re lowered and raised. When you lower these

Awnings require ventilation to keep hot air from becoming trapped

blinds completely, their slats meet and provide shade. If partially

around the window. Grommets (eyelets) or other openings along

raised, the blinds allow some air and daylight to enter through.

the tops and sides of an awning can provide ventilation. The aw-

21

22

Gig Guide As mentioned in last month’s issue, Hot Chocolate ex lead singer Greg Bannis is now in Spain and will be at various locations up and down the Costas. Greg will only appear once in Benidorm, and can be seen as far afield as La Manga, Murcia, Santa Pola and Los Alcazares.

Greg started his “Hot Like Chocolate Spain” (Facebook page too) tour with an astounding show working together for the very first time with Glenroy Oakley of Greyhound fame.

As Greg’s manager in Spain I have to say that despite the fame that he has achieved from being the front man for Hot Chocolate for 18 years after the sad death of Errol Brown, he is one of the most down to earth people I have met. Considering that he normally plays in front of 10’s of thousands of people at huge concerts all over the world, his main concern is that each and every venue enjoy themselves. His act is fun and very interactive. There is not an ounce of snobbery to be found – just a huge amount of showmanship and love of music and people. Greg’s last gig in Spain is on August 23rd, when he will be off to Germany for his sell out concerts.

It may be hot, but there is always time to have some Hot Chocolate – especially when it is Greg Bannis.

If you would like your events in this guide, they are FREE. Just email me the details to letsrockshowslive@gmail.com.

To book acts please go to my new site www.jaxlawson.com Shows dates can be found on www.lrshows.com Love life, love music and support your venues and acts.

Jax Lawson xx GIG GUIDE Fri 12th Aug Hermanos, Playa Flamenca cc – Greg Bannis – 9pm Black Bull, San Miguel – Cassi Kennedy – 9pm Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Paula B – 9pm Maggie O’Brien’s, Campoverde – The Stoned – 10.30pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – The Streeters – 10.30pm Doolan’s, Via Pk 3 – Nick Gold – 10pm Papillion, Toretta 2 – Duncan Philips – 8.30pm Porterhouse, Los Dolses – Angie McKay – 9pm Sports Bar, Playa Flamenca CC – Samantha Curtis – 9pm Tavern, Lo Crispin – PDQ – 9pm Inn at The Green, Entre Naranjas – Chloe Leigh – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja

Aug - Sep weekends – Conchita – 9pm Sat 13th Aug The Club, Quesada – The Trio (Rick, Trace and Lee) – 7.30pm - 15€ inc 2 course meal. Tel 697501992 La Bodegueta, Lo Crispin – Darren Jones – 9pm Disseny, Blue Lagoon – JJ Soulman – 9pm Legends, Playa Flamenca CC – Justin Sane – 10pm Marabu Lounge, Pueblo Bravo – Woody – 9pm La Piedra, Gran Alacant – Zodiac Duo – 9pm Maggie O’Briens, Campoverde – The Geckos – 10pm Winnie’s, Finestrat – Greg Bannis – 8.30pm Big Al’s, Gran Alacant – Randall Cain – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Kolted – 10.30pm Emerald Isle, La Florida – Dan Davy and Nick Gold – 9.30pm Watering Hole, San Luis – Samantha Curtis – 9pm La Taberna, Entre Naranjas – Las Vegas Tribute Show – 9pm Bar Carlos, Torrevieja – PDQ – 9pm The Archers, Quesada – Chloe Leigh – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Tony R Lane – 9pm Sun 14th Aug La Gasolinera, Buscot – Justin Sane – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Stevie Spit – 10.30pm Twilight Bar, La Marina – Johnny Sax n hog roast – 1pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Dougie Monroe – 10.30pm El Bojito, Punta Prima – Nick Gold – 9pm Ship Inn, Torrevieja Marina International – Cover Brothers Open Mic – 9pm Pablos International, Playa Flamenca – Richie Alexander – 9pm Twilight Bar, La Marina – Jonny Sax – 5pm La Tabererna, Entre Naranjas – Lynden B – 9pm Fri 19th Aug Hermanos, Playa Flamenca cc – Greg Bannis – 9pm NewYorks Bar, Lo Santiago – Justin Sane – 9pm Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Rod Stewart Tribute – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Conchita – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – The Streeters – 10.30pm Doolan’s, Via Pk 3 – Nick Gold – 10pm Papillion, Toretta 2 – Duncan Philips – 8.30pm Porterhouse, Los Dolses – Angie McKay – 9pm Bar Carmen’s, El Chaparel – Samantha Curtis – 2pm Torre Asia, Torreblanca – Peter G – 9pm Sat 20th Aug La Bodegueta, Lo Crispin – Bella Luna – 9pm Leprechaun, Santa Pola del Este – Diverse Duo – 9pm Disseny, Blue Lagoon – Francis Sings – 9pm La Gasolinera, Busot – Greg Bannis – 9.45pm The Club, Quesada – Tina Turner Tribute Show – 7pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Tony R Lane – 9pm

Marabu Lounge, Pueblo Bravo – Las Vegas Tribute – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Kolted – 10.30pm Emerald Isle, La Florida – Dan Davy and Nick Gold – 9.30pm Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Nikki G – 9pm Jillie’s Bar, Algorfa – Samantha Curtis – 9pm Bar Carlos, Torrevieja – PDQ – 9pm Sun 21st Aug The Crazy Rabbit, La Manga – Greg Bannis – 9pm Leprechaun, Santa Pola del Este – Paul Harris – 3.30pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Stevie Spit – 10.30pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Dougie Monroe – 10.30pm El Bojito, Punta Prima – Nick Gold – 9pm Ship Inn, Torrevieja Marina International – Cover Brothers Open Mic – 9pm Plaza de Toros, Alicante – Status Quo – 10pm La Taberna, Entre Naranjas – Lynden B – 9pm The Pub, Gran Alacant –Chloe Leigh – 6pm Fri 26th Aug Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Paula B – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Conchita – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – The Streeters – 10.30pm Doolan’s, Via Pk 3 – Nick Gold – 10pm Papillion, Toretta 2 – Duncan Philips – 8.30pm Porterhouse, Los Dolses – Angie McKay – 9pm Sports Bar, Playa Flamenca CC – Samantha Curtis – 9pm Torre Asia, Torreblanca – Peter G – 9pm Mono’s, Quesada – Chloe Leigh – 9pm Sat 27th Aug Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Zodiac Duo – 9pm La Bodegueta, Lo Crispin – Timewarp Duo – 9pm Imanyos, Daya Nueva – Paul Harris – 9.30pm Taverna, Entre Naranjas – Cassi Kennedy – 9pm Disseny, Blue Lagoon – Paula B – 9pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Tony R Lane – 9pm Marabu Lounge, Pueblo Bravo – Bella Luna – 9pm Big Al’s, Gran Alacant – Randall Cain – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Kolted – 10.30pm Emerald Isle, La Florida – Dan Davy and Nick Gold – 9.30pm The Watering Hole, San Luis – Samantha Curtis – 9pm Park Inn, Quesada – Las Vegas Tribute Show – 8pm Bar Carlos, Torrevieja – PDQ – 9pm La Campana, Guardamar – Chloe Leigh – 9pm Sun 28th Aug Café Bar J’s, La Marina – Francis Sings – 8pm St James’s Gate, Torrevieja – Stevie Spit – 10.30pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Dougie Monroe – 10.30pm El Bojito, Punta Prima – Nick Gold – 9pm Ship Inn, Torrevieja Marina International – Cover Brothers Open Mic – 9pm Pablos International, Playa Flamenca – Richie Alexander – 9pm

La Taberna, Entre Naranjas – Lynden B – 9pm Fri 2nd Sept Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Zodiac duo – 9pm Lansdowne, Playa Flamenca – Chloe Leigh – 10pm Sat 3rd Sept La Bodegueta, Lo Crispin – Sharni – 9pm Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Duo Zodiac – 9pm Market Tavern, La Romana – Cassi Kennedy – 9pm The Arches, Quesada – Natasha Parx – 9pm Spice City, La Finca – Nigel Paul – 8pm Laurel & Hardy’s, Quesada – Randall Cain – 8pm Bar Sioux, Gran Alacant – Rebecca Holt – 10pm Bar Carlos, Torrevieja – PDQ – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Kolted – 10.30pm Emerald Isle, La Florida – Dan Davy and Nick Gold – 9.30pm Las Ramblas Golf Club, Torrevieja – Chloe Leigh – 9pm Sun 4th Sept Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Richie Alexander – 9pm The Leprechaun, Santa Pola de Este – Paul Harris – 3pm Tues 6th Sept Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Phil Collins Tribute – 9pm La Bodequeta, Lo Crispin – Richie Alexander – 9pm Weds 7th Sept J’s, Temptations and Biancos, Consum Square La Marina – The Trio – 7pm Fri 9th Sept Big Al’s, Gran Alacant – Randall Cain 9pm Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – Paul Christie – 9pm Lansdowne, Playa Flamenca – Chloe Leigh – 10pm Sat 10th Sept The Club, Quesada – Jokers Wild with Justin Sane and Zodiac – 7.30pm - 15€ inc 2 course meal. Tel 697501992 Pablo’s International, Playa Flamenca – JJ Soulman – 9pm Bar Sioux, Gran Alacant – Terry Jay – 10pm Bar Carlos, Torrevieja – PDQ – 9pm Stray Sod, La Fuente – Kolted – 10.30pm Emerald Isle, La Florida – Dan Davy and Nick Gold – 9.30pm The Lounge, La Marina – Chloe Leigh – 9pm

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