All abroad july 2015

FR

allabroad.es www.

2015 issue number 48

EE

July

! th on m y er ev n ai Sp in e lif t pa ex of st Bringing you the be HOW REIKI CHANGED MY LIFE

L..?

Sleeping COOOO

your Your local market is ry best anti-inflammato medication!

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Cover: Alicante Old Quarter

for the locals...by the locals..!

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Molly Malone’s Sezadu

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Are you COOL

in bed..?

By Dave Bull

ALL ABROAD

www.allabroad.es

reaakk!! kkee aa bbre a T a T with

We’ve arrived well and truly at the Innitot season here in Spain, (pronounced ‘isn’t

info@viajesrosatours.com www.viajesrosatours.com

it hot’ in the Home Counties) when thousands of expats, whose memories are not helped along by the exceptionally cool and refreshing beer here, remain convinced that this year is hotter than the previous and so on.

MONDAY / LUNES / MONTAG ALGAR

/ GUADALEST

At vero eos et accusam et justo duo dolores et ea rebum. Stet clita kasd gubergren, no sea takimata sanctus est.

either having ceiling fans which tend to be so huge it’s like going to bed in an aircraft

tage of knowing what it must be like to sleep in a morgue. The other choice would be to leave all the windows open to create a breeze but those annoying gits will invade during the night, no...not the Germans, I mean mosquitoes, and disturb your sleep

VILLAJOIOSA

5

10€

5 99

ALICANTE

(Market)

+CHOCOLATE FACTORY

+ BENIDORM

+ ALICANTE CASTLE

13€

10€ BENIDORM (Market Day)

8€

12€

5

ALGAR

10€

MOJACAR

ÁGUILAS

WATERFALLS (FULL DAY)

Boat Trip / Barco

INC: ENTRANCE

17€

MAY: 06, 20 JUNE: 03, 17 JULY: 01, 15, 29 AUG: 12, 26 SEPT: 09, 23

INC:

(Town & Beach)

+

MAY: 13, 27 JUNE: 10, 24 JULY: 08, 22 AUG: 05, 19 SEPT: 02, 16, 30

30€

16€

THURSDAY / JUEVES / DONNERSTAG BENIDORM

$

CALPE + BENIDORM

5 99

CARTAGENA

+ LICOR 43

CARTAGENA

$

$

14€

10€

+ MAR MENOR TRAIN

13€

+CATAMARAN CRUISE

+ BOAT TRIP + TRAIN

+

+

INC: 18€ info@viajesrosatours.com 21€

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CARTAGENA

CARTAGENA

+ LICOR 43 + TRAIN

INC:

CARTAGENA

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EXPERIENCE

DAY TRIPS

love you’’s are usually the custom at this point too.

$

WEDNESDAY MIÉRCOLES /$MITTWOCH $ /99 99

The fourth, and very popular option among expats in Spain, is to get absolutely men) to a night on the sofa or up close and friendly with the toilet bowl – a few ‘I

13€

ALTEA (Market Day)

BENIDORM

pattern as well as raise your blood pressure. bladdered and aim for a ten hour coma. Choosing this option often leads (usually for

BENIDORM

TUESDAY / MARTES / DIENSTAG

hangar while a Chinook winds down , there’s also the disadvantage of being pinned to the bed. Or the air-con is a big favourite and offers the resident the unique advan-

MAY/ JUNE / JULY/ AUGUST/ SEP MAYO /JUNIO /JULIO/ AGOSTO / SEP MAI / JUNI / JULI / AUGUST / SEP

DAY TRIPS

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Sleep becomes a problem for some during this season and the three basic options of

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15€ADT: 22€ SENIOR: 20€

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CHD:

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FRIDAY / VIERNES / FREITAG MURCIA

MURCIA

I know some people who opt for a combination of all the methods above, ok...not always deliberately, but expats in Spain usually find something that works for them.

Even if they have to return the fan to the Bazaar shop and get a replacement within the month after it collapsed during the night making a hell of a racket...and clean

MURCIA : ZOO + WATER PARK

(Shopping Malls)

(City Centre)

MURCIA : ZOO + WATER PARK ADT:31€

10€

+

10€

ALICANTE

(NIGHT OUT)

13€ 15€

10€

CHD:27€

BENIDORM

DENIA

BENIDORM

SENIOR:27€

10€

(NIGHT OUT)

11€ $

5 99

BUS + CENA + ESPECTACULO

sheets were needed.

BUS + SHOW

option, but many will only do it once as those ever persistent mosquitoes defy the latest technology available by some of the biggest chemical companies in the world by getting through whatever spray, cream, net, wet suit (I have strange friends...) is used to armour the body and hunt down that tender spot and have a munch, or two, while the victim sleeps under the stars. The laughing mosquitoes fly above and point as if our ‘au natural’ sleeper is a rabbit that just hopped into the lion enclosure

51€

35€

BUS + ESPECTACULO

Sleeping on roof terraces is also known to be done – often combined with the fourth

10€

BUS + DINNER + SHOW

SATURDAY / SÁBADO / SAMSTAG ALGAR WATERFALLS

BENIDORM

+ BENIDORM

10€

13€

SAFARI AITANA

VALENCIA MAY: 02, 16, 30 ALICANTE JUNE: 13, 27 JULY: 11, 25 AUGUST: 08, 22 SEP: 05, 19

16€

MAY: 09, 23 JUNE: 06, 20 JULY: 04, 18 AUGUST: 01, 15, 29 SEP: 12, 26

ADT: 27€ CHD: 23€

SUNDAY / DOMINGO / SONNTAG ALGAR / GUADALESTLA MANGA BENIDORM EVERY $SUNDAY

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10€

CATAMARAN CRUISE

$ LA MANGA (Maket day)

ADT: 22€ CHD: 13€

99 511€

SEN: 20€

$

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CARABASI CANTRE- GRAN ALACANT Open from 4.00pm til late Tuesday to Friday and from 10.00am at the weekends til late

Thatchers Gold and Peroni 3€ a pop Carlsberg 2€ and a glass of wine for 2€!

Sunday lunch is a local favourite and you can have a choice of meats from chicken, lamb, beef or pork all at a very reasonable 8€ for 1 course, 11€ for 2 and 13€ for the full 3 courses not forgetting your homemade apple and berry pie.

Football or any other sport you fancy – this is the place.

Brothers has one very large, crystal clear screen for your viewing pleasure

children’s menu, high chairs and baby changing facilities too.

Wednesday nights are poker nights, darts practise with some free food is on a Thursday and with karaoke and live music on at the weekends, what more could you possibly want.

4

www.facebook.com/Brothers.

Telephone: 0044 7863178870 - Ave Noruega 214 Gran Alacant 03130

Alicante City Walking tours:

perience! x e n a e n a rr e it d e M The

Standing proud, elegant and bathed in sunshine on the south-eastern coast of Spain, Alicante is a city bursting with Mediterranean culture, history and the very best of modern Spain. Don’t just take my word for it either – see for yourself; hit the streets and let the real Spain give you a cultural bear hug in this city that shows off the Mediterranean way of life perfectly.

Chic and trendy and yet bohemian and historical Alicante greets the visitor like nowhere else, oozing character and blending a fascinating and eventful history with the traditional and contemporary way of life that Alacantinos are so good at. Alicante is a baptism of Spanish cultural fire – from its famous and outrageous fiestas to its wonderful and varied cuisine. A real Mediterranean experience!

With Dave you can journey through history from the 8th century to the 21st along the narrow streets of the old quarter in Alicante passing some of the most interesting and different types of bars and restaurants in the whole region.

What people say about Alicante walking Tours “Went round the old city with Dave, and boy, does he have good legs! I even listened to what he had to say now and then, and just loved his funny accent. Mmmm” Joleen Marchant, Georgia, USA “Dave brought Alicante alive for me! I’d read about its history before, but you never really know a place until somebody with such depth of knowledge shows you all the sights, ancient – and modern. An experience to treasure, and cheap at the price.”

Ken Broughton, history student

As you stroll you will hear about the local legends and myths as you head along ancient ‘caminos’ next to some of the oldest buildings in the city, taking in spectacular vews and the wonderful ambience of an historic city that truly represents what life living on the mediterranean is really like, and how it was in times gone past.

Of course how can we visit a region like this without stopping to sample the very best in tapas and local wines at traditional street cafés and bistros where the waiters will welcome you with typical Iberian friendliness and before you know it a tapas and perhaps a cool drink will be in front of you - and all of course in amongst the rich cultural atmosphere of a city that has experienced a colourful history.

Alicante offers more than any other city for a real taste of authentic Mediterranean life amongst locals going about their daily lives in this wonderful city of sunshine.

From atop Mount Benicantil take in some of the best views to be had on the Costa Blanca; looking south along the coast and across the rooftops of the whole of the city as your guide explains how the city has grown through the various civilisations that have settled in the area over more than 2000 years.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 mins + optional lunch in a typical Alicante restaurant where guests can ask questions and find out more about this historical city n a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Meet: Port entrance – Café Soho Mar Start time: 10.00am + 4.00pm Duration: 3.5 hours (optional lunch after) End point: Port entrance – Café Soho Mar Price: 40€ per person

Tel. 606 540 408 email:ask@allabroad.es

10% OFF

Alicante Walking Tour (Min 4 people)

with this voucher

(Please mention All Abroad) 5

Sandra in Spain www.sandrainspain.com

Everybody has to contend with inflammation at some point. It’s the body’s natural response to trauma or injury, and the area affected will be hot, swollen and red, as well as painful. That’s down to two factors: the release of white blood cells, containing chemicals to protect the scene of the crime, and increased blood flow to the area due to the automatic response of the immune system to any perceived threat to the body.

Inflammation may be acute or chronic, and it can also affect the internal organs. Internal inflammation contributes to a several chronic, life-limiting illnesses, including diabetes, asthma, arthritis and coronary heart disease. Poor lifestyle choices and excessive stress can set off an internal inflammatory response, which is invariably chronic, or long term.

The single most significant factor in chronic inflammation is diet –you really are what you eat. If you put junk into your body, rub-

my anti-inflammatory medication, in the form of fresh, in season

Your local market is your best anti-inflammatory medication!

produce that’s picked ready to eat, so the flavour is perfect and the vitamin and nutrient content is at its best. If you buy Spanish strawberries in England, they won’t taste the same as mine from my local market, because they’ll have been picked before they’re ready to eat, then shipped in cold storage. Not only will you be disappointed with the flavour, you won’t get the full antioxidant hit either.

matory medication. However, in the seven years since I moved

here, I’ve discovered that I can control my internal inflammation I’ve highlighted strawberries because not only are they my fanaturally, just by rocking up at the local market on a regular basis. vourite fruit, they are also just about the best anti-inflammatory food going. The latest research concludes that eating 3 – 4 bowls

Anti-inflammatory diets are mostly based around the Mediterra- of strawberries a week has the same anti-inflammatory effects as nean Diet, and that’s acknowledged by health and nutrition ex- taking COX inhibiting medication. That does fancy things with perts to be just about the healthiest diet going. It’s also the way we enzymes in the body to help reduce inflammation, but it is also a eat here in Spain, so there’s lots of fruit and vegetables, lean meat no-no for people with hypertension or a history of heart disease

and fish, as well as lots of fibre and healthy complex carbohydrates. in the family, as it can cause strokes and other nasty side effects. I might be wrong here, but I never heard of anyone getting a stroke Now here’s the science bit – those with a low boredom threshold through eating strawberries! might want to skip this. Fruits and vegetables are brimming with It’s not just strawberries either. At the time of writing - (June) -

lots of antioxidants which combat inflammation. That’s flavenoids the cherries, blueberries and apricots are piled high on the stalls, and carotenoids to you. Here’s a tip - brightly coloured stuff has the and there are avocadoes a-plenty to be had. Sweet potatoes (bonihighest antioxidant content. It looks prettier on the plate too, but atos) are also looking good. Try one baked with tuna and homemade coleslaw for lunch. Those lovely pointy sweetheart cabbages maybe that’s just me being whimsical.

bishy things will happen inside you. Regular overeating can also

All plant-based foods contain different, naturally occurring phyto- make great coleslaw, and you can get three or four for a Euro.

trigger an inflammatory response, and habitually taking in more

chemicals, and the People Who Know believe these help to control

calories than your body needs messes around with the immune system, thereby hampering any attempts by your body to fight inflammation.

I have Lupus – it was a deciding factor in moving from divine but damp Devon to the healthy climate of the salt lakes of the Costa

chronic inflammation. Okay, phytochemicals like lycopene in to- Google ‘Anti-inflammatory foods,’ then head down to your local matoes, or flavenoids in fruits are not essential, and you won’t die mercadillo to fill your granny trolley. It may take a while to notice

if you don’t get them. However, they do help to protect plants from a significant difference, but I find that I hardly ever need to take disease, and it appears that they can also do the same for humans pain killers now, and the only lifestyle change I’ve made is switchwhen it comes to internal damage due to oxidation and those pesky ing to an anti-inflammatory diet. Give it a try – you have nothing to lose, and great new taste experiences to gain! free radicals we keep hearing about.

Blanca, and I battle chronic inflammation on a regular basis. For reasons I won’t bore you with, I can’t take any sort of anti-inflam-

6

So, what’s the market got to do with it? Well, that’s where I get all

LOOKING AFTER YOU ...AND YOUR CAR Talleres Yogesh, Almoradi

Talleres Yogesh has been successfully going in Spain now for fifteen years and with over forty years of experience behind them in the industry (including their previous, again successful, business in the UK) they are perfectly placed to look after your car for you.

Having relocated to Spain in 2000 Yogesh and his wife Latta began running their own business in 2003 when they set up in Finca Los Garraferos where they quickly built up a good reputation for efficiency, reliability and quality work. For the first three years Yogesh worked as an independent mechanic on the Orihuela Costa for three years before starting his business behind the Sunday Zoco market.

Whatever the problem the lads have the best equipment at hand which means that they will find the solution to any problem you may experience with your vehicle.

The full range of services is huge but ranges from a simple preITV check (and they’ll take it for the inspection too if you wish) to full engine replacement and more. A fully-equipped body shop is also on the premises with many of the leading insurance companies working with them.

On the front desk you’ll meet the amiable Latta who looks after not only the clientele but also the admin side of things.

This means she’ll efficiently (and quickly) deal with any paperwork needed to deal with your car from transfer of ownership, re-registration and driving licences - ask Latta if you’re not sure, I promise you that she too will find a solution to any vehicle paperwork queries you may have.

In 2010 Yogesh was offered the opportunity to take over a Ford franchise and so they relocated to their current premises.

With their two mechanics, Pedro and Gary, fully up to date with all the latest technology – Yogesh makes sure they can access all the

Special offer at the moment is an air-con re-gassing and brake checks so why not pop along and see them at Las Heredades, Almoradi or give Latta a call on 96 570 1744.

latest developments and equipment as well as attending courses

Talleres Yogesh, Almoradi

to keep their skills honed and ready for the very latest in what automobile technology has to offer.

www.talleresyogeshdave.com Partida Las Heredades, 62 ALMORADI 03160

FORD

adjuangalvez@gmail.com

Tel:

Specialists

965 701 744

Distributor in Spain for:

SERVICE & REPAIRS ON ALL MAKES Inc. ITV & PRE-ITV ALL ELECTRICS & DIAGNOSTICS INSURANCE APPROVED BODY SHOP REPAIR & REGASSING AIR-CON VEHICLE RECOVERY SERVICE TYRES SUPPLIED & FITTED FADED HEADLIGHTS POLISHED AUTHORIZED TOW BAR FITTING NEW & USED CARS FOR SALE WINDOW TINTING WITH CERTIFICATE Transfer of vehicle documents - Re-registration - Licences Call Latta

620 361 900

WE BUY CARS! www.alloygator.com

Find us on the Almoradi-Rojales road.

From AP7 take junction 740 towards Formentera

7

“Get on yer bike!”

by Gary Routledge www.cyclogicalcostablanca.com

Wicklow 200 Ireland Sportif On Thursday 12th June 2015 local cyclist

ticipate in the gruelling Wicklow 200 with

Martyn Stone from Lo Crispin flew from Al-

his son in law Svein Sjoberg who has only

icante across to Dublin to participate in the

been cycling road bikes for 12 months.

Wicklow 200 Cycle Sportif. Martyn and his wife Louise started cycling with Gary and

The annual Wicklow 200 Ireland (Wick-

Lynn at Cyclogical in Quesada 3 years ago

low the Garden of Eden) Sportif is one of

on the Saturday couples group on Hybrid

Ireland’s premier cycling Challenges and

cycles and Martyn fancied having a go on

takes place in June every year. This year’s

a road bike.

event was the 34th and took place on Saturday 14th and was well organised and

After only an hour he was hooked and has

run by the Irish Veteran Cycle Association.

now been riding a road bike for two and a half years and Louise is now also riding

The Sportif covers 202kms with 2700me-

a road bike. Martyn took part in his first

tres of climbing over some very steep

cycle Sportif in Calpe at the end of Octo-

terrain and started at 9am sharp from

ber last year with team Cyclogical, then in

Grey stones village passing through some

March 2014 The Valley of the Grapes Spor-

beautiful countryside and quaint little

tif in Monforte and San Vicente Sportif in

hamlets, the route went from Greystones

April before flying across to Ireland to par-

village –Wicklow gap – Hollywood –Balt-

inglass-Kiltegan-Tinahely – Drumgoff -Lasagna – Rathdrum – Avocado – Redcross – Asford – Newcastle and finishing back at Greystones village for a welcome beer and pasta courtesy of the organisers.

All 4000 participants were issued with a registration card which was scanned at the start and on completion where all finishers of the full 200km received their certificate and Gold medal. There was also a shorter 100km alternative route for those who were not experienced enough to do the full route. Martyn and Svein were both delighted at completing the full 200km and receiving their gold medals which was an excellent achievement.

8

CYCLING tips advice routes

Calle Los Arcos, 7 QUESADA

Mountain Bikes City Bikes Child Seats Tag-a-longs Hybrid Bikes Road Bikes

Ladies Bikes Kids Bikes Tandems Kids Trailers BMX Bikes Electric Bikes

Sales, Repairs, Hires, Accessories & Clothing Open Mon-Fri 09.30-17.30 Sat: 10.00-14.00

Call Gary or Lynn: 637 487 377 www.cyclogicalcostablanca.com

Martyn cycles every Thursday and Sunday with team Cyclogical in Quesada covering approx 100kms per trip, anyone interesting in coming along and having a go should contact Gary on: 637487377.

Gary and Lynn are available at Cyclogical, in Quesada Monday to Friday from 9.30am – 5.30pm and from 10am -2pm on Saturdays to assist and advise you on all your cycling requirements.

9

Abrimos todos los dias a partir de 18.ooh & los Sabados y Domingos tambien a medio dia We are open every day from 6.00pm Summer Hours and from 12.00pm at weekends From 1pm every day

@pizzeriacocoa /pizzeriacocoa

Come and enjoy warm hospitality and great food, relaxing in our comfortable and smart surroundings.

Serving our guests the best freshly prepared dishes and offering an inspired, vibrant and regularly changing menu.

Our rooftop terrace is open for drinks and cocktails, and tables laid for al fresco dining, with views across the Vega Baja valley toward the Callosa mountains

Table Reservations

965 077 444

info@laurelandhardys.com

Opening Hours Mon-Sat: from 6pm Sunday: 1pm-9pm

Calle Los Arcos, 21, Ciudad Quesada w: laurelandhardys.com f: Laurel & Hardy’s, Quesada 10

11

BAYA BAIXA beautifully restored Spanish country home. 250m² with 4 bed, 2 bath on 7,300+m² of land with pool, orchard. Close to beach and airport, more. €360,000. AA6240

GRAN ALACANT new construction townhouses with modern high end finishes. 2 beds, 2 baths with mezzanine and 25 m2 of garden. €95,000. AA7480 Other layouts available.

LAS BAYAS lovely 3 bed, 2 bath country house minutes from Elche, beaches and airport. Set among beautifully landscaped gardens with pool, more. €265,000. AA6135

GRAN ALACANT 3 bed 2 bath house in Novamar.

BEACHFRONT Stunning views of the Med. Garage parking, inverter aircon, security bars and more. €249,950. AA5950

GRAN ALACANT luxury 3 bed villa with garage and private swimming pool. Exclusive Isla de Izaro gated community. Fully furnished with many extras. €360,000 €325,000. AA6118

GRAN ALACANT 3 bed, 2 bath house on popular gated community of Med III with 2 pools, children’s play area, tennis court and private covered allocated parking. €176,500. AA5923

ALICANTE Exceptional 5 bed, 4 bath villa on Playa Albufereta in Alicante.

Amazing sea views. 250 m2 house on 2000 m2 of garden with private pool. €3,250,000. AA7124

GRAN ALACANT 2 bed, 1.5 bath townhouse (82 m2) walking distance to the beach and amenities. Communal pool and gardens.

KEY READY. Price includes a car. €92,000. AA7492

MONTECID spacious 5 bed, 4 bath villa with large pool and bar perfect for entertaining. Move in ready!

Fully furnished with security bars, aircon, many extras. €285,000. AA1105

GRAN ALACANT jaw dropping views of the Med from this bright and airy 2 bed, 2 bath house. Guest apartment in basement.

Private pool, garage, much more. €395,000. AA6499

GRAN ALACANT 3 bed townhouse in Altomar I. Communal pool and gardens. Close to post office, cafes, more. Views of canyon and sea views from solarium €139,950. AA7459

GRAN ALACANT walk to the beach! 3 bed, 2 bath house in gated community of Costa Hispania III. Communal pool, gardens, allocated parking, more. €141,000. AA5657

10

Proud sponsors of the Gran Alacant Darts League and friends of ASPETGA

Kelly McLachlan

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

Come & meet

Notes from small town Spain Back to reality...

The

SPECIALISTS

er, (driving in England was an experience, this is true) and I certainly do not envy driv-

Summer is well and truly in full swing, the

ers around these parts in the height of sum-

beaches are filling up and the sun is burn-

mer. It’s also an excuse for bad / crazy /

ing the delicate skins of the tourists. There

road rage (delete as appropriate) driving.

are more tourists than locals this time of

A red traffic light means STOP all over the

year, of course. The locals go away to es-

world, right?

cape the tourists and the natives that are left are easy to spot because they’re the

You’ll find me on the balcony this summer,

ones wearing jeans! In June and July tem-

(if I’m not at the beach) with a cool glass

peratures of 25ºC +! The tourists look at

of wine, enjoying the drilling of the build-

them like they’re bonkers and ask why. I’ll

ers, breathing in the summer sea air...and

tell you...they know August is coming. And

dust. I’ll be chuckling at (and probably writ-

they know just how hot August is. As for

ing about) watching the same cars driving

the tourists, they’re usually the ones with

round and round and round, beeping horns,

the white socks and sandals! (Bum bag op-

asking “You going?” to be told “NO! I’ve

tional).

waited for this space and I’m staying! Drive on!” before probably abandoning ship on the (Well, some of them

corner, facing the wrong way on a one-way

do, no, make that MOST of them do) Which

street (it’s all one-way round here) on a ze-

brings me nicely to my next point. The bars

bra crossing! I’ve seen it happen...!

Tourists bring cars.

and pubs around here are happily blocking off already scarce parking spaces to make

I was chatting to a Brit tourist on the Urb

room for ‘alfresco’ drinking. Usually about

the other day and I was saying that after

half the street, if not more. There are lots

urbanisation life I am a lot happier living in

of bars here in town, of course.

There’s

town. “You live in Santa Pola? I don’t like

also plenty of car parks but who will pay

Santa Pola” when I questioned why on earth

for parking when you can drive round and

not, because it really is a lovely town, I was

round looking for a space while scowling at

told: “Too Spanish...” Even my dad, who is

tourists raising their cañas at you? It only

the most English man I know and refuses

costs half a tank of petrol, after all...and it’s

to eat a curry (“It’s foreign, innit?”) says he

a nice walk back when you park out of town,

much prefers to stay in town when he visits.

sweating and in need of a caña. I haven’t

He says he won’t go back to urbanisation

mentioned the builders over the road that

life. He’ll try a tapa and can ask for the bill

seem to be rebuilding the block of flats, tak-

in Spanish. True, there are no fish n chips

ing up yet more parking spaces with rub-

shops, but plenty of fresh, local seafood,

bish skips and vans. Oh, and roads are usu-

and you can buy your PG Tips in most of the

ally repainted at some point at this time of

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year as well, just to annoy drivers a little bit more. Ok, ok...to tell them EXACTLY where

So if you do decide to pop into Santa Pola

they should be going. But there aren’t re-

this summer, take the bus...because parking

ally many drivers who take too much notice.

is almost impossible. Bring on the madness!

Personally, I am now a proud NON car own-

Gotta love summer.

Until next time!

13

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MANDY’S

BANK ‘Yes you have, this says you have.’

ME ‘We haven’t’ BANK ‘But this account is for your new bank’ ME ‘We haven’t got a new bank’ BANK ‘Oh you better go to the water board’….We did.

Spanish Diary

by Mandy Tams

TO HAVE OR NOT TO HAVE... …WATER (part 1) We have met and made very good friends that have brought, and still do bring joy to our lives, wine to our glass and inches to our waistline.

Knowing we were due out, one checked our accommodation to find the water turned off and tagged for non-payment.

Now there are some things one can’t do without, one is wine the other water.

Time to ring the Spanish water board, who informed us we had not paid for three months saying, ‘We do not give out water if you don’t pay, BUT… if you pay €125 on your credit card we will reconnect you immediately.’

I paid not wanting to be without water on my holiday, and finished the conversation with.

‘Okay, do it, I fly in a couple of days and I’ll come in to sort it then.’

On arrival in Spain, we took a trip to our post box then our favourite restaurant on the strip for dinner; you may know it from the Harry Potter books. We told our sad little tale, but said we knew we would get our money back.

They grinned at each other and spoke though semi-gritted teeth saying ‘Good luck with that.’ We began to feel edgy.

Bearing in mind the W/Board have our English address, mob phone, landline number, both email addresses and husbands work number, how do they inform us they have not been paid. Yes, one letter in Spanish to our Spanish post box full of sand, dead flies and dust covered flyers crammed in by the hundred, plus the odd lizard seeking refuge.

We drove to the bank with the dusty letter fly spotted letter which I handed to the Bank manager after explaining our predicament.

BANK ‘Ha, I see now… When did you change banks?’

ME ‘We haven’t.’

For those that have not had the joy of a visit to the Water board it is an experience I would not have missed because once done never repeated, a bit like sticking your finger in the electric socket while sitting in the bath. People and their ubiquitous cigarettes hung around the doorway looking shifty, but they obviously knew more than we did. We squeezed through and were met by a machine offering three types of ticket; we took potluck and hit a button.

It looked quiet until we turned to our left and saw 30+ people queuing with only three customer service reps on the desks, but we were lucky we had a number 3B ticket and the board was showing 2B… boards A and C flashed up 27, and, 32 respectively. We sit on the edge of our seats ready to jump… A28… A 29… C33. No movement on B Time ticked on, the ladies behind the desks greet friends, wander round, sit down check their nails take a tea break and every now and then press a button ... this must be ours, no, A30. continued next month...

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27

BALEARIC BANTER

By Johnny Mahonny

(The Barnsley Marinero) Greetings from Menorca. Mr Dave Bull, the Ayatollah of the Airwaves, the Prince of Print, the Crown Prince of the Costa, has dangled the golden carrot (not to be sniffed at) and commissioned another pageful of nonsense from the Marinero.

the Greetings from Menorca. It’s 8.45 pm, still warm, but the so us of sun has slipped over the ridge to the west air will quickly cool to a more comfortable temperature, although still very humid. Average humidity on Menorca is about 70% which is good on the one hand (heavy overnight dew keeps the flora watered ensuring a green island all year round) and not so good on the other (mil-

dew on walls in unaired villas and apartments in winter, ). breathing problems for bronchitic or asthmatic people this Addaia of As Mrs Mahonny and I left our little village morning we had a fairly heavy rain shower accompanied big by large threatening cloud cover but on arrival in the the and clear city (Mao, pop. about 26,000) the sky was temperature around 28 C. For such a small island the asdifference in weather between different areas can be cloud in ed shroud tounding; the west of the island can be and but at the same moment the southeast will be sunny hot, and vice versa.

The reason for our trip to Mao (or Mahon, if you prefer) viswas to get some proper money for Mrs M’s impending who Jess, er it to Blighty. She’s going over to visit daught now lives in south London before starting work at our local bar/restaurant next Wednesday, July 1st.

I suppose it is symptomatic of the way our tourist season this has shrunk that she can even contemplate leaving at season the , time. Nine years ago, when we first arrived was May to October, with some visitors arriving in April.

Now it’s reckoned to be June-September with work contracts becoming shorter and shorter. In 2007, our first summer here, we both found work very easily, with full o six-month contracts ensuring we would receive subsidi ar half-ye days (winter unemployment benefit). These now contracts are like hens’ teeth and the usual length is suffithere’s if ion three months with a one-month extens cient trade.

Mrs M has a four-month contract from July 1st but hopes to carry on working into the winter as the restaurant do stays open all year round, the only one in the area to so. Fingers crossed, I think.

I gave up on employment a few years ago and am now self employed so, just as in the UK, I can expect no help h from anyone, but I acknowledge the fact and althoug

28

circumstances are more difficult now, I still wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.

Last month I mentioned the local elections. Well, the votes are in and the two main parties got a right thumping. A number of small opposition groups did rather well

and hold enough power to be able to make significant changes in return for coalition agreements. I don’t know much about politics, local or otherwise but do know that s monopolies are bad news so it’s good that new opinion and ideas have a platform.

A few years ago, when the PSOE took over from PP, an outgoing official, probably in a fit of pique, stated that Menorca could survive without tourism. He may be right but the second and third most important industries in Menorca after tourism are cheesemaking and leather goods. I rest my case.

I And now, a cry for help, ladies and gents. On Fridays too not out, night good a run the quiz here in Addaia. It’s elevabout by d finishe serious, and usually the quiz is en, although the roistering doesn’t end until the early hours. My problem is this: I’ve run out of quizzes. Folks I in the UK send me their pub quizzes occasionally but actual pay to having t need a more regular supply withou money for them (remember I’m a Yorkshireman on my mother’s side) so if anyone out there has a batch of fairly me recent quizzes available for recycling, please contact sailor old an make and m by email: john@menorcatrek.co very happy. Also, if you have any nice comments about my articles, please tell me. If, on the other hand, you dihave any nasty, horrible, tastleless comments, please Posh ns, Mansio e Bullsey rect them towards Mr Dave Bull, –bit-of-Alicante. s My friend said to me the other day : ‘Close the curtain whole the ny, Mahon next time you make love to Mrs g street was watching last night and they’re all laughin even wasn’t I them. on about it’. I replied: ‘The joke’s home last night’.

I leave you with a witticism from Groucho Marks: ‘I never exforget a face but in your case I’m willing to make an ception’.

See you next time.

29

Eating out...

Some recommendations from:

OASIS BAR BISTRO

good food & drink guide 2015

in November 2014, bringing a wealth of experience of the catering and service industries and a passion for producing excellent food to the town.

A makeover in early 2015 has given the Oasis a bright and relaxing atmosphere which includes an

BAR KATA

as you see Car Broker Spain on your right hand side. Mari Carmen and her team have created a very welcoming and bright environment with comfortable seating, a wide screen projector and 4 TV´s which show all the football, rugby, and horse

30

opened in 2013 after a major renovation and makeover.

The decor and atmosphere is perfect and along with the new chill out cocktail bar and the stunning panoramic views over the fairway makes this venue totally unique.

You can experience fine dining at its very best with the vast International menu offering an extensive choice for both

outdoor seating space overlooking the square.

and it is advisable to pre-book.

The daily menu includes a range of fresh foods with European and International themes and daily homemade specials. On Thursday to Saturday evenings there are new dining options that include ‘Tapas on the Terrace’ or a seasonal fresh Menu de la Noche that includes Sangria and appetizers on arrival, a choice of 3 courses including wine, with tea or coffee

The large indoor restaurant is fully air conditioned, is taste-

lunch and evening meals. Sunday lunches are very popular

fully and comfortably furnished and can accommodate in excess of a hundred people. Perfect for large groups or societies and of course private parties. Outside on the terrace the Chill out Cocktail Bar is again a most relaxing and comfortable area where you can enjoy very reasonably priced bar meals, snacks and drinks and unwind whilst you enjoy both the views and the soft background music.

Oasis is open daily from 10am and now into the evening. For more information call 603 169 090, find us on Facebook oasisbenijofar or go to www. oasis-benijofar.es

The pool area for adults and kids alike has comfortable loungers and seating and plenty of shade for those very hot days! Once visited you will definitely want to return. Open daily from 8am til late.

Plaza de la Constitución Benijofar Tel. 603 169 090 racing live on a daily basis, they also have a betting machine for your daily flutter´s, a pool table and a dart board. Outside there is an ample terrace and the interior is fully air conditioned.

In order to locate the delightfully friendly Bar Kata, you need to take the first left turning opposite AES Services and then immediately take the first right turning on to Calle Antonio Orts and the bar is 75 mts. on your right hand side if you are coming from the Ciudad Quesada direction and the same directions in reverse if you are coming from the Rojales direction as soon

The Clubhouse Restaurant at La Maquesa Golf was re-

indoor lounge area. Outside, a new canopy on the sun drenched terrace adds to the comfort of the

to finish.

The OASIS BAR BISTRO is located in the heart of Benijofar on the town square directly opposite the fountains and Church.

New owners Stephen and Alex took over the Oasis

THE CLUBHOUSE RESTAURANT & CHILL OUT COCKTAIL BAR

Their specialty is daily freshly prepared tapas and Dish of the day. Other special offers include Burger and a Pint for €4, Sunday BBQ´s on the terrace and their Curry Menu, available Wednesday evenings and Saturday´s from 1.30pm, it offers you a choice of two types of curry with rice or chips and onion bhaji and poppadoms with pickles for starters, all for €7.90, without doubt a fantastic meal!

Private parties and special events are welcome as they have an indoor seating area which holds up to 79 people! Opening hours are seven days a week

For reservations or more information call 966845598/637583373

La Marquesa Downtown Quesada Ciudad Quesada Tel: 966845598/637583373

The

COSTA BLANCA

GOOD FOOD GUIDE “The best guide around!”

A great guide to some great places to eat and drink on the Costa Blanca - Steve Hall. Thisisspain.com Something for all tastes and all budgets...for the first time a guide that is actually helpful and we especially loved the towns being seperated to help us when we go out - Gary Keene, Food Critic

from 8am until late. For more information please ring 649 489 959.

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SALES: 606 540 408 - 638 323 962

HOW REIKI CHANGED MY LIFE I am a Reiki Master/Teacher, and having practiced Reiki for thirteen years I can’t imagine how my life would have turned out had I not been introduced to the beautiful universal energy of Reiki.

Reiki was founded by a Japanese gentleman by the name of Mikao Usui over 100 years ago and was introduced to the West in 1937.

The word Reiki when translated into English, means ‘Universal Life Force’. Split into two syllables ‘Rei’ means ‘boundless spirit’ or universal transcendental spirit, and ‘Ki’ represents ‘Life force energy’ or ‘sacred energy’.

Reiki is a complementary therapy which is not connected to any religious practice. It is a spiritual form of healing and assists in developing self love by looking for the truth within. It helps to restore the body’s natural energy and supports its ability to heal itself. Reiki helps to alleviate physical pain, stress, and depression as well as restoring the body’s natural energy balance by aligning the chakras and releasing any blockages.

What to expect during a Reiki treatment At the start of your Reiki session the practitioner will discuss with you what to expect as well as answering any questions you may have. You will be asked to remove your shoes, but you will remain fully clothed. The practitioner will ask you to lie down on a Reiki bed and you can have a pillow under your head or be covered with a blanket if you so wish. During the session you have your eyes closed and there are no words exchanged during the treatment. As you become more relaxed you will feel a deep sense of peace and you may fall asleep. There is no need to worry if you feel emotional – this is perfectly normal as Reiki has a way of releasing that which the body no longer needs.

Reiki healing addresses the whole person working on the spiritual, emotional, mental and physical.

The practitioner will place their hands on certain parts of the client’s body starting at the crown chakra (top of the head) and finishing at the feet.

The treatment is non-intrusive and Reiki as a whole is about loving intent, so a good practitioner will do everything they can to ensure their client feels relaxed and comfortable. The treatment can last for anything between 45 minutes and an hour.

During the session it is usual to feel heat emanating from the Practitioners hands as the Universal energy is transmitted to the recipient. An experienced practitioner will know which parts of the body will need the healing the most. For example, I feel a ‘pull’ to certain parts of a client’s body and when I place my hands over that area, my hands start to tingle and the heat builds up in order to heal that part of the body.

I remember when I had my first Reiki treatment around 13 years ago. I hadn’t heard of Reiki as it wasn’t as well known then as it is now, but as I was going through an emotional time in my life it was recommended to me by a friend who had been attuned to first and second degree Reiki.

As I lay on the couch and gentle music played in the background I could feel the heat from the practitioner’s hands as they worked through my chakra’s helping to balance and realign my body.

I felt extremely relaxed if not a little emotional and I saw lots of blue, purple, green and white swirling colours.

The treatment had a profound effect on me so much so, that I decided that I wanted to be a Reiki Practitioner myself and six months down the line I found myself sitting in a chair being attuned to First Degree Reiki! That day was the start of a beautiful friendship between me and Reiki as a whole, and everyone around me said that I positively glowed.

I went on to be attuned to Second Degree Reiki and eventually became a Reiki Master/Teacher.

I have attuned many students to Reiki over the years and it never fails to amaze me how Reiki can help bring a clearer sense of spiritual awareness and self-healing into one’s life.

A brief outline of the three degrees of Reiki First Degree Reiki one is a permanent attunement to the Reiki ray. There are four initiations with First Degree Reiki and you will learn about the History of Reiki, the Reiki Precepts, The Reiki Hand positions for treating yourself and others, and The Principles of Reiki.

Second Degree During your second degree attunement you will learn 3 of the sacred Reiki Symbols and their uses and how to send distant healing to others as well as learning how to heal aspects of your own life.

You will also be taught how to set up your own Reiki Practice including preparing a relaxing space in which to treat others.

Third Degree/Master Attunement The third degree consists of learning the final symbol in Reiki and how to teach others the wonders of Reiki. In becoming a Reiki Master you should have a deep understanding and commitment to Reiki and you may find at this level that your psychic abilities are heightened.

Case study of one of my client’s “At a time in my life when I was emotionally upset I approached Alison for a Reiki treatment. She provided both direct and distant healing to support me through this difficult time. During my treatment I felt relaxed and close to family who have passed over. Each time I visualised a beautiful peaceful spot where I could relax in tranquillity. I doubt whether I could have recovered without the support and inner peace that I experienced during my Reiki healing treatment.”

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