Essential Magazine, May 2023

The world's leading brand with the best local expertise

An extraordinary new villa in El Rosario

A true newly built modern masterpiece with an exceptional architecture, designed to offer breathtaking sea views, a luxurious living space with endless possibilities for relaxation and impressive amenities such a beautiful gym and an infinity pool.

5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms

Built approx. 650 m2 , plot approx. 1.568 m2 3.500.000 € · E&V ID W-02RVXP

Outstanding contemporary villa in Nueva Andalucía

Located in an exclusive community, this exceptional property offers unparalleled living, modern concept and attention to detail showcased in the stylish architecture, bespoke interiors and luxury features such as the rooftop terrace with plunge pool.

5 beds, 7 baths

built approx. 516 m2 , plot approx. 1.455 m2 3.875.000 € · E&V ID W-02RTIF

Second line beach villa in San Pedro Playa

Situated just 100 metres from the beach, this stunning villa radiates elegance and modern design in an absolutely fantastic location and enjoying wonderful panoramic sea views. Exceptional entertainment areas and solarium with a lovely plunge pool.

6 beds, 6 baths

built approx. 443 m2 , plot approx. 955 m2 5.490.000 € · E&V ID W-02QGVQ

Because buying a property is a matter of trust

The epitome of luxury living in Cascada de Camoján

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7 beds, 11 baths

built approx. 1.812,4 m2 , plot approx. 2.020 m2 Price on application · E&V ID W-02RXN6

Experience exclusive and secure living at its finest in one of the best urbanizations on The Golden Mile. This exceptional villa offers 24-hour security, easy access to all amenities and the beach. It boast the latest in technology and a private lift connecting all different levels.

4 beds, 4 baths

built approx. 713 m2 , plot approx. 1.556 m2

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Spectacular cutting edge villa in Monte Mayor

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Altos de Puente Romano Golden Mile

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DESIGNED FOR BETTER LIVING

Each design-led home at Vista Lago will be quite unlike anything that has gone before. All 18 villas, as well as the furniture and fittings in them, are different from each other. The commonality they share are the breathtaking views across the Mediterranean Sea to Gibraltar and Africa beyond.

The view from your sofa at Vista Lago Residences

The

The

WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

COME WHAT MAY

Welcome to the 24th Anniversary edition of essential! Over the years, we have established a loyal base of readers and advertisers. On behalf of all involved with essential, our thanks go out to them for their unwavering support.

We pamper the senses this month with a visit to Andorra, a taste of Mugaritz as it opens for its 25th season, and a relaxing stay at Hotel Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina.

Eurovision is coming, live from

Liverpool, after last years winner, Ukraine, were unable to stage the contest for obvious reasons. Who are the hottest contenders?

We profile rising star, Jenna Ortega, and learn how Sadhguru has established a global following.

Don’t miss our report on New Property vs Resale and check out the first Carbon Zero House on the Coast.

Finally, for dining establishments par excellence, they don’t come much better that the new COYA at Hotel Puente Romano and Palodú in Málaga.

Happy reading!

“There is no way to happiness –happiness is the way”

May until mid-July is allegedly the best time to visit Andorra. You could also attempt to reserve a table at the legendary Mugaritz, which has just reopened for it 25th season. Get ready for Eurovision with the grand final on May 13.

« BACK TO CONTENTS

sspotlight

24 Andorra, the ‘Hidden’ Principality

36 Soho Boutique Castillo Santa Catalina

46 Mugaritz Celebrates its 25th Season

54 Eurovision 2023 UKraine

66 2024 Maserati Gran Turismo Folgore

76 Who is Sadhguru?

80 Jenna Ortega

ANDORRA

THE ‘HIDDEN’ PRINCIPALITY

There once was a little principality hidden between tall green mountains set in a faraway land. It lay between two large powers but was forgotten and overlooked, safe in the shadow of its snowy mountain peaks. There, all lived peacefully and prospered.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY ANDORRA TURISME AND ADOBE STOCK

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

We tend to focus on ministates such as Monaco, The Vatican, and of course Gibraltar, the British Overseas Territory so close to us, but there is another one and it also touches Spain. The introduction alongside makes it sound like a fairy tale, but there is some truth to it, as Andorra is very much the forgotten principality, but one that harbours much that is of interest within a postage stamp on the European map. ›

Making up about 500m2 of the Pyrenees Mountains, Andorra is wedged in between Spain and France, and though it runs its own affairs, by tradition has two ‘protecting’ Princes: the President of France and the Bishop of the nearby Spanish town of La Seu d’Urgell. Indeed, President Emmanuel Macron is a Prince for the duration of his tenure, but how did it come to be so, and how did Andorra resist being absorbed into its large neighbours?

Though protected

by mountain ranges, the original Iberian tribes had to fight off the likes of Hannibal the Carthaginian (he of the elephants) before succumbing to Roman and later Visigoth rule. Germanic tribes (in this case the Franks) later protected Andorra from Moorish rule, and it was part of Charlemagne’s great empire, but the concept of independence under French-Spanish protection was first established in the 9th century and ratified in the 13th.

For centuries, the landlocked country played a cat and mouse game to remain independent and keep absorption into France or Spain at bay. Since then, Andorra has been that delightfully forgotten little principality in the shade of the Pyrenees, and for most of its history was a land of shepherds, farms, steel forges and guild weavers. The result was a dreamy, romantic little domain of wooded mountains and green pastures far removed from the turmoil of the greater world. ›

Andorra is a popular ski destination

In winter, Andorra becomes a Pyrenean wonderland

ANDORRA COMES INTO THE WORLD

The later 19th century saw a partial end to this blissful isolation, with the building of spa hotels that laid the basis for what has since become an important tourist industry.

Every year, Andorra attracts around ten million visitors – 125 times its population. They come for the healing waters and spa treatments, to ski and above all, to shop, for it is upon the latter that Andorra’s riches have been based.

Pyrenean landscape of Andorra

A small hiccup occurred in the 1930s, when a Russian adventurer named Boris Skossyreff attempted to install himself as King of Andorra but was ousted, after which a detachment of the French military was posted in the country to safeguard it, later also from the effects of the Spanish Civil War. Andorra subsequently accepted refugees from both sides of the conflict, and many became residents, helping to boost the postwar economy as it embraced tourism and the tax-free shopping that made the country rich.

Neutrality during World War Two also laid the foundations for the banking sector that has boomed ever since, especially focusing on wealth management, as Andorra is also a low-tax country that attracts a strictly controlled number of foreign residents, offering them lower tax levels than the bulk of European countries. The country is not a member of the European Union, but it does work closely with it and is a member state of the United Nations and the Council of Europe. It even uses the Euro as its official currency. ›

Catalan culture and language heritage

The local government has generally done a good job of managing Andorra, and their plan for the future (yes, a handful of countries do seem to have such a thing, see also Singapore), includes allowing in a selected number of foreign residents. Mostly high net worth individuals attracted by low tax rates, they are subject to the kind of rigorous checks that increasingly separate Andorra from former/present tax havens such as Switzerland and Monaco.

In principle, the intention is to cap the population at

125,000, to keep it in line with available water resources, but even so this means a growth of over 50% from the current community, which has tripled over the past half century. Previous immigration took the form of people working in the services sectors – mostly retail and tourism – but now many outside workers live just across the border in neighbouring Spanish towns, with the precious land reserved for wealthier residents.

The latter may not reside in Andorra permanently, but are obliged to do so for at

least a part of the year, and their coming has sparked a dynamic property market that focuses primarily on luxurious apartments in and around the little capital of Andorra la Vella, which sprawls pleasantly along what is more like a large gorge than a valley. While global warming may put the ski resorts at risk, the HNW resident influx, paired with the provision of luxury services, wealth management, banking and hospitality, is currently set to drive the economy for some time to come. ›

Pyrenean highland beauty

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A CATALAN NATION

While there is much ado about Catalan independence in Barcelona and surroundings, it is not Catalunya but Andorra that is the first Catalan state. The Romanised Iberian inhabitants of Andorra over time became Catalan speakers, with a Catalan-based Pyrenean culture. Today,

however, roughly 20% of the population is Spanish and over 10% Portuguese, who form the backbone of the labour force. They service millions of visitors to spa hotels, ski resorts and day-time shopping, most of whom arrive by car from France and Spain. Andorra can also be reached by train from these

two countries after which coaches take you into the little landlocked country, while a relatively new airport at La Seu d’Urgell provides a more direct link. Most visitors from afar, however, fly into larger airports such as those of Barcelona, Toulouse and Zaragoza, and drive hire cars through the Pyrenees and into Andorra. ›

The country’s popularity among wealthy residents further adds to what makes the capital town of Andorra la Vella a shopping paradise. This charming town is the ideal place to buy jewellery, watches, perfumery, designer brands and, if you can wing-it, luxury cars. Real estate is expensive in Andorra, but generally looks smart and carries the sense of cleanliness and organisation that pervades this microstate.

In fact, Andorra la Vella has a decidedly Swiss look about it – a tantalising hint at what Spain might be like if it were run by German speakers. Andorra may have started out as the kind of forgotten principality from a fairy tale story, and it continues to be overlooked by mainstream attention, but today it is an increasingly internationally engaged country that builds upon the wealth attained from

the 1970s onwards to consolidate its position as a very European state with much to offer. Catalan merges with Spanish, French, Portuguese and English on its streets, blending a mix of rural idyll with an increasingly sophisticated economy and urban feel. Andorra may have awoken from its centuries-like slumber, yet it still feels like a little fairy land within the 21st century. e

One of the most charming places to be in winter

NUEVA ALCÁNTARA CLUB

HOTEL SOHO BOUTIQUE

CASTILLO SANTA CATALINA

The past 20 years have involved the impressive expansion of the hotel industry in Málaga, with a myriad of establishments – including the Hotel Silken Málaga, Barceló Málaga, Vincci Selección Posada del Patio, and Hotel Molina Lario (to name just a few) – having invested heavily in establishing a presence in the city.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE HOTEL SOHO BOUTIQUE CASTILLO SANTA CATALINA

LUXURY ABOUNDS

It isn’t just the big hotel groups that have left their mark on the city. Málaga has also seen the arrival of quaint boutique hotels such as the Castillo Santa Catalina, a stunning fivestar establishment located in a palace in El Limonar that bears a Renaissance Arabian architectural style. Constructed in 1932 and situated by a fortress dating back to 1624, it boasts one of the most beautiful views of the Coast in the city. Indeed, many residents head to this hotel for a meal or a cup of coffee just to catch a glimpse of the Mediterranean from this vertiginous spot. ›

ARABIAN NIGHTS

Arabian arches graced with bougainvilleas, traditional Andalusian fountains, and stone walkways transport you almost instantly to a world of romance, beauty, and nature. The castle is surrounded by lush trees and seems worlds away from the city centre, despite being a short drive up.

AN EXCLUSIVE STAY

The hotel has just 24 rooms, all of which are decorated in calming, soothing colours. There are five room types to choose from: the Double Room, Double Deluxe Room, Junior Suite with a Sea View, Junior Suite with a Terrace, and Two-Room Suite

with a Terrace.

The Two-Room Suite is definitely one to go for if you are travelling with family or friends. It occupies an entire floor of the historic palace and comprises two spacious rooms, one of which has a Super King (1.8 x 2-metre) bed, and the other of which has two twin beds.

This suite measures 60m2 and has two living rooms, two complete bathrooms (with baths and rain effect showers, plus Chopard personal care products), and 55” LED TVs. The hotel takes the exclusivity factor up a notch with an on-site bellhop, valet parking, and a private carpark. ›

CULINARY TEMPTATIONS

The Hotel Soho Boutique Castillo

Santa Catalina has two spots to entice guests and day visitors alike: a Bar Lounge (located on the terrace and ideal for cocktails on spring or summer afternoons) and the restaurant, simply called El Castillo. Its menu pays homage to Málaga’s proximity to the sea, though some produce is sourced from abroad.

Just a few of the many tempting

dishes to watch out for include French oysters (au naturel or with a shiso ponzu sauce), ‘OO’ Cantabrian anchovies, lobster, tuna belly with pak choi and Hollandaise sauce, and more.

Meat lovers will find their perfect match in dishes like the steak tartar with roasted marrow, duck magret with a beetroot tartar, beef Rossini, among others. The restaurant also offers a tasting menu with a wine pairing crafted by the sommelier.

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

Because of its uniquely beautiful location and architecture, the palace makes an ideal spot for weddings and events. It has both indoor and outdoor dining choices, so it can be booked throughout the seasons. ›

THINGS TO DO DURING YOUR STAY

If a little R ‘n R is what you’re after, then you may be tempted to lounge all day by the stunning pool, or have a swim while you gaze at the Mediterranean Sea beneath you. The hotel is conveniently close to Málaga’s city centre as well, so you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to museums, restaurants, and shopping.

WWW.HOTELCASTILLOSANTACATALINA.COM

DISTANCES

The Hotel Soho Boutique

Castillo Santa Catalina is:

» 2.8km from the city centre

» 1 km from the beach

» 2.5km from Muelle Uno

» 14km from the airport

» 2.7km from the Picasso Museum

» 3km from the Carmen Thyssen Museum

» 4.5km from the closest shopping centre

MUGARITZ CELEBRATES ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY WITH MEMORIES OF THE FUTURE

Gastronomic stalwart, Mugaritz, has reached a quarter century and Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz and his team have an exciting new menu lined up. Read on to discover what you can expect.

Fortune: a mille-feuille of abundance

© José Luis López de Zubiría

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MUGARITZ

For keen gastronomes, the word Mugaritz is synonymous with the ultimate fine dining experience. Consistently deemed one of the top restaurants in the world by Restaurant Magazine, it has two Michelin stars and is helmed by chef Andoni Luis Aduriz – a creative genius who prioritises evolution and an interdisciplinary approach to cooking. The latter is evident in his patronage of the Basque Culinary Centre and his membership in the Tufts Nutrition Council from Tufts University – a group of international leaders from diverse backgrounds with

a firm focus on health and nutrition.

Aduriz seeks to push boundaries, entice diners with a multi-sensory experience, and bridge seemingly unrelated worlds. In the culinary realm, he is seen as a rebel, and Mugaritz is viewed as an R+D hub more than a restaurant. Aduriz defines Mugaritz as “a place where we sometimes even serve meals,” emphasising its creative and scientific heart and soul.

WHERE ART, SCIENCE, AND INNOVATION UNITE

At Mugaritz, Aduriz has achieved what many deem to be a perfect balance between

traditional Basque cuisine, avant-garde creativity, and scientific knowledge. In addition to reaching for new goals in the kitchen, the chef has taught at famed institutions such as Harvard University, MIT, and The Culinary Institute of America. He has participated in important scientific conferences, including the Conference on Applied Cognitive Psychology, organised by the Basque Center on Cognition, Brain and Language. He also serves as advisor to an array of gastronomic establishments and companies. ›

Andoni Luis Aduriz

MEMORIES OF THE FUTURE

Mugaritz kicked off its 25th anniversary on April 29 with a proposal entitled Memories of the Future. The restaurant closed for six months while the team immersed itself in its creative process to give shape to 2023’s vision. The season will last for six months, ending on October 29. Mugaritz held a ‘general rehearsal’ on April 28, inviting five lucky people to experience an early taste of the season via an Instagram challenge. Followers were invited to answer one question: “What do you remember about the future?”

A SIX MONTH, NONSTOP ‘PAUSE’

As mentioned, every year, Mugaritz closes its doors for six months, so the team can immerse itself in projects involving science, research, health, and training. During this time, the R&D team conceptualises ideas, tests new ingredients, develops novel techniques, and visits remarkable producers.

The team seeks ‘accomplices’ outside the borders of gastronomy via two tasting events. The idea is to gather professionals from a myriad of disciplines to exchange opinions and feelings with the group. Over the past few years, people

from the world of culture, literature, music, dance, and philosophy have attended.

Mugaritz has also put its heart and soul into Vis à Vis: a project born in 2022 with a view to creating a selection of wines and beverages alongside top producers. The resulting bottles can only be uncorked at Mugaritz. This season, the list of collaborations includes a Port (made with Dirk Niepoort), a Mencía from Bierzo (with Verónica Ortega), a Rosé (with Jorge Monzón), a Priorat red (with Álvaro Palacios), and a vintage red from the Pago de Carraovejas winery.

Candy: gluten ball

AN OXYMORON AS A COMMON THREAD

Where does a memory end and where does imagination begin? Is memory static or mobile? What would become of us without the ability to daydream, or to believe at

face value what happens vividly in the depths of our minds?

For Mugaritz’s 25th anniversary, Andoni Luis Aduriz and his team chose to face the passing and weight of time with a view

that is anchored in the future. Instead of pausing to simply look back on its achievements, the team sees the previous 25 years as a springboard for dreaming and tracing the future through creativity. ›

© José Luis López de Zubiría

From nose to tail: Norway lobster

Memories of the future: sweet vigor

This year’s experience comprises 25 ‘moments’ that explore new textures, reflect on ‘naturalness’ and the seasons, incorporate new ingredients, experiment with techniques, and present edible forms of concepts such as luxury, the passage of time, beauty, and traditions.

Mugaritz aims to use food as a pretext for exploration and an invitation to question, imagine, confront, remember and even provoke discomfort. It invites diners to enjoy food and understand gastronomy in a much more dynamic way, and taking a look at some of the dishes the team has dreamed up, there is no doubt that they have hit the bullseye. e

Technique, beef contrasts

Photography of dishes

© José Luis López de Zubiría

» Some 1,500 people have formed part of the Mugaritz team over the years.

» Over 170 people who lead or are part of internationally renowned projects have been part of Mugaritz’s creative ecosystem.

» Approximately 1,700 creations have been brought to the table and 3,000 tests carried out.

» Some 271,233 diners have sat in the Mugaritz dining room.

Bunch: chives and butter

Distinctive living, outstanding amenities, and unobstructed 180-degree views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Bay of Estepona. Here, the soothing sound of the waves will resonate and mark the rhythm of your everyday life.

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EUROVISION

2023 UK RAINE

Every flagpole in Liverpool will be flying the blue and yellow colours of Ukraine this month at what promises to be the most emotionallycharged Eurovision Song Contest in its 67-year history.

The Siege of Mariupol was at its height as Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra stepped up to receive the iconic crystal microphone trophy at Eurovision 2022 in Turin. Nevertheless no one was more determined to claim winners right to host the following year’s contest than the country’s eternally upbeat President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

‘Our courage impresses the world, our music conquers

Europe!’, he posted online that night. “Next year Ukraine will host Eurovision!" Ukrainians were deeply aggrieved when the European Broadcasting Union ruled it out on security grounds and passed the baton to the UK, second in last year’s contest with Sam Ryder’s Space Man

But if Eurovision can’t come to Ukraine, Ukraine will come to Liverpool. A two-week culturefest running parallel to the contest organised by Liverpudlian and Ukrainian artists, musicians, designers

and chefs together will see borscht replacing Scouse stew on menus and the Mersey beat playing second fiddle to a Slavic vibe. Even the sacred Fab Four statue at Pier Head will pay homage with Paul, George, John and Ringo wearing embroidered Vyshyvanka smocks over their sculptured Sixties suits.

“This is not a normal Eurovision,” promised Claire McColgan, Director of Culture Liverpool. “We know we can do the best show for Ukraine because that’s who this is for.

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

Every bar, every restaurant, ever corner of the city will be celebrating Ukraine and Eurovision.”

Even the contest itself, created to reunite Europe after WW2 in a strictly a-political celebration of musical talent, seems to be bending its own rules this year. Themed United by Music, blue and yellow are woven into Eurovision publicity and the stage at the 11,000-seater Liverpool

Arena ‘will take its inspiration from a wide hug and the cultural similarities between Ukraine and Liverpool’. However the EBU insists its support for Ukraine is ‘humanitarian rather than political in nature´.

Russia, banned since last year along with Belarus, will be the elephant in the room while Ukraine is sending a jumbo-sized delegation on exit permits

authorised by the President who may even be there himself! Definitely coming are Kalush Orchestra –minus their winner’s trophy which they auctioned off for $900,000 dollars to support the war effort. “Playing in the same place that The Beatles started out will be a moment we’ll never forget”, says the band whose rap number Stefania became a peace anthem for their country. ›

MUSICAL POLITICS

Patriotic lyrics, partisan voting and political semaphore with national flags have long reflected Europe’s geopolitical divides at Eurovision, despite the EBU’s efforts to keep it off camera.

Arch border enemies Armenia and Azerbaijan traditionally award each other an unneighbourly Nul Points; Scandinavian countries invariably vote for each other; and you can bet on Greece and Cyprus giving each other the maximum 12 points and zero to Turkey. That much is predictable but there are always surprises… As Massiel of Spain’s beat Cliff Richards’ into second place, General Franco was accused of vote rigging to boost tourism by offering TV sponsorship and contracts to other participating

Can Ukraine do it again? The bookies give this year’s entry a very limited fighting chance and Eurovision is nothing if not international warfare in a concert hall setting. National differences are often a source of acrimony with countries ganging up in tactical voting blocs as unknown acts in outrageous costumes (37 this year) slug it out vocally with an arsenal of high tech props. Everyone’s in it to win it and anything is possible at Eurovision. As 2013 Finnish entrant Krista Siegfrids said after her lingering girl-on-girl kiss with a back-up dancer to protest her country’s same-sex marriage ban: “It’s live TV so nobody can stop me.”

» 1974 The Portuguese entry started a revolution. Paulo de Carvalho’s And After the Farewell was played on radio as a secret signal triggering the uprising that toppled the country’s dictatorship.

» 2000 Israeli band PingPong were made to pay back their trip expenses after unfurling Syrian flags on stage and calling for peace between the two countries.

» 2009 Georgia band Stephane & 3G was thrown out of the Moscow contest without getting to perform its not-so-subtle entry, We Don’t Wanna Put In

» 2015 Anti-booing technology was deployed following Putin’s annexation of Crimea to prevent the Russian entry being drowned out.

» 2019 Icelandic entry Hatari raised the Palestinian flag as their votes were announced in the final, landing their national broadcaster with a €5.000 fine. ›

Winner’s Trophy © EBU/Corinne Cumming

2022 winners Kalush Orchestra © EBU/ Corinne Cumming

Majestic Luxury Project on the Golden Mile

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Bedrooms: 7

Bathrooms: 8

Solarium: 77 m²

Built: 720 m²

Plot: 1,550 m²

Price: € 5,500,000

Ref: MFSV1633

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ALT OS DE PUENTE ROMANO

PICK THE WINNER!

Nations which don’t even compete in it will be tuned into the 1950s Swiss song contest that has become a global obsession. The mishmash of power ballads, ethnic rhythms, and bubblegum pop doesn’t always equate to great music. But through ABBA highs and Jedward Twins lows, the show that launched the careers of Celine Dion, Julio Iglesias, and Riverdance has grown from a one-night stand into an extravaganza spanning nearly a fortnight.

There are six days of ticketed rehearsals and two live televised semi-finals (May 9 and 11 this year) ahead of the must-watch Saturday night Grand Final (May 13). Adding to 2023’s excitement, the semis will be decided solely by public televote with professional judges only brought in for the final, which has been hosted

by slick Irish comedian Graham Norton since 2009.

Billions are bet on the winner but who to back?

Check out the most hotly-tipped runners and riders here!

BOOKIES’ FORECAST

Correct at time of going to press. See the latest at https://eurovisionworld.com/odds/eurovision

» SWEDEN 44% chance of winning

» FINLAND 17%

» UKRAINE 7%

» NORWAY 5%

» SPAIN 5%

» GOOD OUTSIDE CHANCES: Israel, Austria 3%; UK, France, Czechia 2%. Rest of this year’s 37-entry field: 1% or less

Eurovision 2022 spectacle © Atelier Francesca Montinaro

SWEDEN

LOREEN: TATTOO

‘Hurricane’ Loreen took the odds charts by storm from the get-go as the favourite to give Sweden its seventh Eurovision victory. But, of course, she’s an old hand – winner of Eurovision 2012 in Azerbaijan with Euphoria. The epic dance hit topped the charts in 16 countries and is considered the Gold Standard for Eurovision songs, taking over from Abba’s Waterloo Now 40 and looking just as foxy, the Stockholm singer’s 2023 offering sounds euphorically similar…

» CHANCES: Three other Eurovision winners have made contest comebacks without success but the bookies must know something!

© Charli Ljung

FINLAND

KÄÄRIJÄ: CHA CHAW CHA

He has a reputation in his homeland for energetic, bare-chested performances which he sums up as: ‘It’s crazy, it’s party!’ The experimental rapper’s Eurovision entry is all about defying genres, fusing rap, electronic music and metal with ballroom dancing, performed in a neon green padded bolero jacket that makes him look like a frozen pea.

» CHANCES: Tipped to be the runner up, his act may be too weirdly Scandi for some.

© Nelli Kenttä/Yle

UKRAINE TVORCHI: HEART OF STEEL

This electropop duo have lived their own song title, dodging drone strikes and rehearsing in bomb shelters to fly the flag for Ukraine at Eurovision.

The live show that crowned pharmaceutical graduates Andrii Hutsuliak and Jimoh Kehinde their country’s winning act was broadcast from an underground station in Kyiv as trains chugged past the stage and drones buzzd overhead. And with constant electricity outages the pair had to

get very ‘tvorchi’ indeed (Ukranian for ‘creative’).

“We tried not to think that at any minute you could be killed by missiles,” said Hutsuliak. “When the sirens went off we’d just grab our equipment, run to the nearest shelter and carry on.”

Crammed with feisty lyrics and references to sticking the middle finger up, Heart of Steel is a tribute to the mettle shown by the Ukranians who held Azovstal steelworks for 82 days during the brutal f Mariupol Siege.

» CHANCES: They have the sympathy vote but, insists Hutsuliak: “Ukrainians don’t want to be pitied. You need to look at us and get inspired.”

©

UA:PBC/Michael Fedorak

SPAIN

BLANCA PALOMA: EAEA

The last time an artist tried flamenco out at Eurovision – Remedios Amaya in 1993 – Spain came last. But this impassioned 34-year-old singer/set designer from Alicante brought the audience to its feet at the Benidorm heats with her electro-flamenco lullaby. Inspired by the poetry of Lorca and her Sevillian grandmother whose red-tassled flamenco shawl features in the choreography, Blanca says: “It is the first song in the history of Eurovision por bulerías so it is a source of pride.”

» CHANCES: If Liverpool is ready to ‘get’ flamenco, Blanca could be the girl to show them how it’s done. ›

© RTVE/Valero Rioja

UK

MAE MULLER: I WROTE A SONG

Actually, she co-wrote this jaunty pop number but the 25-year-old Londoner is no rookie. She supported Little Mix on their 2019 stadium tour and has 20 singles and a top 40 hit (Better Days, 2021) to her credit. She describes her entry as “A summertime empowering pop anthem about resilience and sisterhood”.

» Chances: You can’t knock the first UK Eurovision entry in over a decade to debut in the UK Top 40.

Liverpool skyline © Marketing Liverpool/Ant Clausen

© Harry Carr/Capitol Records UK/EMI

UKRAINE ON THE MERSEY

Scousers are planning a Eurovision sideshow whose beat will reverberate from the banks of the Mersey to the Donets River. EuroFest (May 1-14) will see Ukrainian creatives from Liverpool’s twin city of Odessa and all over the besieged country collaborating on 19 commissions that will give Ukraine the party it missed out on. Highlights include:

FRANCE

LA ZARRA: ËVIDEMMENT (OBVIOUSLY)

No one does chic like the French and this retro act is loaded with it. Think Edith Píaf meets Mariah Carey in a classic French love song, delivered with the seductive mystique of Marlene Dietrich. A.k.a. Fatima Hafdi, the 25-year-old’s career as La Zarra began in 2016 after she delivered a sexy Monroesque rendition of Santa Baby at a party.

» Chances: Not Obviously a UK chart topper but La Zarra has that Je ne sais quoi.

» The Blue and Yellow Submarine Parade: A huge underwater disco starring a giant glitterball jellyfish paraded through the city to kick-start the party.

» Rave UKraine: Held simultaneously in Liverpool and Kyiv and streamed across the world to celebrate the uniting power of music.

» Izyum to Liverpool: The city’s

cathedral transformed into a train carriage ride along ‘the highway of death’ from Izyum to the Polish border, filmed in real time.

» The English National Opera does Eurovision: Two musical worlds collide in one epic outdoor performance.

» The Sonia Trail: A self-guided walk via 20 cut-outs of Scouser Sonia Evans who came second at Eurovision 1993. e

© SLAM

GRAN TURISMO FOLGORE 2024 MASERATI

When the Maserati brothers launched their automobile manufacturing company in 1914 they would have known all about electric cars, which were highly popular at that time. At the turn of the 20th century, 38 per cent of all cars sold in the US were powered by electricity and similar numbers could be found in several European countries. Even so, the brothers were to focus on high-performance internal combustion power and we’ve had to wait until the 2024 model for an EV from the fabled Italian maker.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY

Maserati’s first EV is the Folgare Gran Turismo sports car, the subject of this feature, followed closely by the Folgare Grecale, a compact SUV. All future electric Maseratis will carry the Folgare (Italian for lightning) name alongside the usual badge and muchrespected Maserati trident. Both models were set for a 2023 launch a few months apart. The ultimate aim is that all Maseratis will be electric by 2030. ›

At first glance, the biggest surprise with the fourseat, two-door Folgare Gran Turismo is its looks. Rather than opt for an ultra-contemporary style with sharp creases and full-width LED lighting so common nowadays with EVs, Maserati decided on a highly traditional design that harks back to the great Italian GT cars of the 1960s.

The car could easily have been styled by the team that brought us the Ferrari GTO. This policy will be a total delight to enthusiasts with a leaning towards automotive nostalgia. It’s low and sinuous with a long nose, complete with a ‘radiator grille’ and stubby rear end. This approach is sure to be warmly greeted by buyers who regard the 1960s as

the golden age of Italian sports cars.

Of course, looks apart, this car is totally contemporary from a technical standpoint. It uses three radial-flux electric motors that develop a solid 751-horsepower and almost a thousand poundfeet of torque. The 92.5 kWh battery is located at the centre and rear of the car for optimal weight distribution. Fast charging to 80 per cent takes about 18-minutes, Thankfully, the car has all-wheel drive, almost essential when you consider how it would handle with 751-horsepower and 2WD on a wet road. It’ll rocket you to 100 km/h in a scant 2.7-seconds and it offers an EV range of 450km under ideal conditions. ›

The interior of the GT Folgare almost follows the traditional ethic of the exterior styling. It’s certainly more traditional than groundbreaking and buyers will be pleased with that too. Many contemporary EVs have too much tech for their own good and the designers lose sight of the fact that the ’knobs and switches’ approach was developed over many decades by people who really know automobiles. Even so, there are some interesting touches in the cockpit, including

upholstery made from recycled fishing nets. Naturally, the car does incorporate all current infotainment technology and advanced connectivity but it’s not dominated simply by huge touch screens. This new Maserati adds up to a highly desirable product with looks that are impossible to fault and huge reserves of power. For buyers who have wanted to ‘go electric’ but fancied something with lots of eye appeal, the GT Folgare may be the perfect answer. e

» ENGINE Three radial-flux electric motors.

» TRANSMISSION Single speed automatic.

» ACCELERATION Zero to 100 km/h 2.7-seconds.

» TOP SPEED 325-km/h.

» I LIKED Stunning traditional styling. Sparkling performance, excellent EV range. Has all the attributes of the best Italian sports cars in terms of trim and detailing.

» I DIDN’T LIKE Quite a heavy sports car, but most of this is taken care of by the substantial power available.

» MARKET ALTERNATIVES Next generation Tesla Roadster, Fisker Project Ronin, Alfa Romeo Giulia EV, Audi e-tron GT.

» WHO DRIVES ONE? Maserati enthusiasts who don’t want to depart from traditional designs but would like to make the move to an EV. Buyers who want the most up-to-date Maserati with landmark power levels for the brand.

» PRICE AND AVAILABILITY Available this year at a base price around €250.000 (estimated).

Villa in La Zagaleta 16,800,000 €

Villa in Sierra Blanca 28,000,000

WHO IS SADHGURU?

There is a long tradition of gurus advising us how to live and attracting high-profile followers, but somehow Sadhguru stands apart from these cult-like figures, who damaged the reputation of the genre with their scandals. Jagadish Vasudev, as he was born, is an altogether more authentic, approachable sage who has built a global following with his likeable manner as much as his well-considered advice.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ISHA FOUNDATION

The founder of the Isha Foundation was not always a wise man sharing pearls of wisdom about how to be happy, healthy and generally a well-functioning human being. Born in 1957 in Mysore, India, he pursued a degree in English literature before setting himself up in business. At this stage, there was little to suggest that the young man would later be a guru, but clever he already was, as he chose a poultry business on the basis that it would leave him the greatest amount of free time while earning a decent living. His free hours were spent pondering life and writing poetry, but before long earthly matters took over again and he started a construction sector company with a friend.

This promising career came to a sudden end when, after a series of spiritual experiences, Jagadish Vasudev closed shop and set out to travel and teach the yoga that had become such an integral part of his life. It was during this period that he met his wife, Vijaya Kumari, with whom he had a child, and developed his style of yoga, known as Sahaja Sthiti Yoga, with a gradually growing number of students. The turnaround in his life had come after a series of experiences that opened up

the spiritual being within him. Sitting on a rock, he suddenly became infused with a sense of oneness with the world, with every particle and element of the nature surrounding him and indeed the wholeness of everything. From this moment on, Jagadish was on the path to become Sadhguru.

Spiritual awakening opened up a desire for travel, and as he crossed India he came into contact with the sea of Indian lives, many subsisting from day to day. Practising yoga and living this life, a man already given to thought and introspection, he began to meditate and imbibe the knowledge that India has evolved over millennia. In essence, these volumes of thoughts pass on a tradition of physical, mental and above all spiritual wellness that is centred upon peace, equilibrium and feeling at one with the universe and all its creations. By its nature, this is a pacifist, sensory-intellectual way of being that is generally

associated with Hinduism and Buddhism but also finds expression in earlier animist religions such as Shamanism.

WAYS TO LEAD A BETTER LIFE

Sadhguru’s appeal lies both in the life advice he gives and the way he delivers it, for instead of pompousness there is a very approachable human figure who stands among us rather than above, and appears to speak from experience when he discusses life’s challenges and pleasures. His manner and his message, as well as a fresh approach to yoga, won him a growing following, and in 1993 he established the Isha Foundation near Coimbatore in Southern India. While it primarily offers yoga classes called Isha Yoga, Sadhguru has gone far beyond just being a yoga teacher – today, he is an international figure whose short videos and longer discussions are watched by tens of millions of people around the world. ›

He draws from ancient Hindu wisdom blended with his personal thoughts on today’s issues to offer a particularly digestible but nonetheless profound collection of guidance on many of life’s important factors.

The topics covered range from the environment, healthy diets and physical well-being, to every aspect of how achieving inner peace and balance, and ultimately contentment, is the path to a fulfilled and productive life. Oneness with nature is a given in this, and Sadhguru has won admiration for the clarity with which he explains and answers a very broad variety of questions.

The modern day sage, who infuses his musings with a healthy dose of humility and humour, also

steers into political, social and environmental issues, leading the fight to save soil and the food production and health that comes from it. Though it is an almost forgotten topic, the desertification of the world is one of the biggest problems facing us, and Sadhguru has addressed everyone from the UN to India’s own Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, as well as appearing on shows across the globe.

In addition to his online exposure, Sadhguru has also authored Inner Engineering: A Yogi’s Guide to Joy, and Karma, A Yogi’s Guide to Crafting Your Destiny . They further diffuse his teachings among an increasingly global public in an age when we need a helping hand to make sense of it all and keep our wits together. Everyone has their own sage, or not, but people like Sadhguru offer a very accessible, down to earth yet intelligent way to connect the dots and plot a path to individual contentment and happiness – something we’re all looking for.

Join Sadhguru in person at his first London event in four years, ‘Sadhguru in London, Meet, Mingle and Meditate’ on 18th June 2023 and discover your natural state of freedom and joy.

WWW.ISHA.SADHGURU.ORG/UK/EN

JENNA ORTEGA AND THE POWER OF RISK-TAKING

If you’ve seen her in the Netflix series, Wednesday, then you know that 20-yearold Jenna Ortega, the star of this platform’s second most-watched series, has a steely conviction that belies her years. If you’ve viewed her in interviews and red carpet affairs, then you know how seriously she takes her craft and how rarely she portrays the qualities normally associated with someone just out of her teen years. Jenna seems to carry a big weight on her shoulders and indeed, she has taken on many important roles that require considerable gravitas.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Jenna has been in the acting business since the age of nine. It began when her mother posted a video of her daughter performing a monologue, and somehow, a casting agent viewed the video. This chance discovery led to a string of roles – at the age of 12, she was cast in the breakthrough role of Jane in the hit series Jane the Virgin She also shone in a lead role

in Disney’s Stuck in the Middle, playing a smart teen who invents a host of gadgets to make life in her sizeable family a little easier. Soon after, Jenna voiced Disney’s first LatinAmerican Princess, Isabel, in the animated series, Elena of Avalor Her fans often say that her most impressive role to date is that of Wednesday Addams. She was particularly keen to play this role because

“Wednesday is technically a Latina character, and she has never been represented that way… any time I have the opportunity to represent my community, I want that to be seen.” Having been portrayed excellently in the past by Cristina Ricci, Wednesday was a challenge that Jenna rose to with aplomb. “I don’t like to play it safe creatively. I think it’s important to take risks as an artist and in life,” she said. ›

She was determined to obtain this role, come hell or high water. She auditioned for it via a Zoom call with Tim Burton, while covered in fake blood, which she still had on from the filming of the horror film, X. In an interview with Wired, she said that she simply hadn’t had time to wash the blood off. Those who know her ambition, though, might suspect that she purposely left it on to add a gothic, eerie feel to her version of Wednesday. The result was not what she had expected – Burton burst out laughing, and by the time they had hung up, he knew that he had found “the one.”

Jenna’s initiative has impressed Burton on more

than one occasion. In fact, the idea of her performing all her lines with her eyes wide open (without a single blink) was hers. This small but effective detail lends her character even greater power and the perfect touch of ‘half-aggression’ that makes Wednesday powerful yet loveable all at once.

Jenna also learned to play the cello to look more authentic when taking this instrument in her hands. She fell in love with it, and has stated that she plans to continue perfecting her skills. For her role as Wednesday, she also honed her abilities at fencing, archery, canoeing, and speaking German.

Her creativity goes beyond the thespian arts. When she

was 18, she penned the book, It’s All Love: Reflections For Your Heart & Soul. The text contains deeply personal stories and quotes and delves into tough topics like her struggles with depression, experiences falling in and out of love, losing loved ones, and growing up as a young Latina woman in Hollywood. Far from being a bitter or jaded account, it is actually full of both vulnerability and positivity, as Jenna fills the book with quotes and affirmations that can inspire young readers. She openly states that the only way that she manages to balance her acting career, public obligations and private life, is to wake up daily and voice her

commitment to herself, her faith, her mental health, and her family.

Post-Wednesday, there definitely is life (and a packed schedule) for the actress. In March 2023, Scream VI was released and enjoyed great success at the box office. The film saw her return as Tara Carpenter, a survivor of the previous Woodsboro killing spree.

She also recently guest hosted Saturday Night Live, using her opening monologue to let fans know that she wasn’t as “dark and twisted” as her recent roles indicated. Of course, she was back to her old ways in a recent episode of Hot Ones, where she wowed host, Sean Evans by barely batting an eyelash after consuming a hot sauce that made Gordon Ramsay run to the toilet and Aubrey Plaza sniff milk to calm the burn. It was rather delightful to see Jenna

answering Sean’s questions as though she were biting into a piece of chocolate rather than consuming a chicken wing doused in a sauce described by Charlize Theron as “battery acid.”

Up next for Jenna is the love story Winter Spring Summer Or Fall, which tells the story of two teens who meet and fall in love over a four-day period. She is also working on Finestkind, a crime thriller opposite Tommy Lee Jones and Ben Foster. Then there is Miller’s Girl – Jade Bartlett’s directorial debut. This comedic drama is centred on a creative writing assignment that leads to the formation of a complex bond between a teacher and his talented student. ›

The script for this film was ranked as one of the best of the year on the 2016 Black List, way before it was considered being produced. Bartlett, who penned it, also worked on Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness – without a doubt one of Marvel’s most creative films in the past few years. Finally, there is an as-yet-untitled film based on an original idea by The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye), in which Jenna will be starring alongside Barry Keoghan. She is also in talks to star in Beetlejuice 2 as the daughter of Lydia (played by Winona Ryder).

When Jenna isn’t working, she partners up with charitable organisations such as the National Bullying Prevention Centre, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, and the Geena Davis Institute. As someone who has suffered mental health issues, she is keen to raise an awareness of conditions like anxiety and depression. She has also backed the charity DoSomething.org, which helps the homeless. Without a doubt, Latin Americans, women, and other groups that identify with Jenna are honoured to have her raise the torch for a host of issues affecting their communities… and she has so much more to contribute to the silver screen and life itself!

If you like to get engrossed in a good film, book or series, have a look at some of the latest releases. Pink Floyd fans take note: The Pink Floyd Experience has a concert lined up on May 27. Check out what’s trending locally and further afield.

wwhat’s cool?

COMPILED BY IAIN BLACKWELL

MARINA COASTAL CLUB

The Marina Coastal Club is the perfect place to while away a sunny day, at the frontline beach Hotel Arts 5* urban resort in Barcelona. Relax in gardens of 2.500m2 with the sea breeze, azure pools, and enjoy gourmet Mediterranean gastronomy, courtesy of the Marine Restaurant, under the capable hands of Conrad Tromp, Director of Hotel Cuisine.

WWW.HOTELARTSBARCELONA.COM

CHOCRÓN VERDE LIMA

Prestigious jewellery house, Chocrón Joyeros, established in 1948, dazzles us with a vibrant gem starring exotic peridots in an intense lime green hue. Fresh and citrusy, they perfectly match the Spring season. Available in a variety of settings of white and rose gold, Chocrón once again demonstrates its mastery in giving life to fascinating jewels.

GINKO RESTAURANT & SKY BAR

Delight yourself with the Sushi & Cocktail Pairing Menu with outstanding vistas across the Madrid skyline at the Ginko Restaurant & Sky Bar in the Plaza de España. The fusion offers a unique gastronomic journey comprising the expertise of experienced sushi-chefs with the creativity of the bartenders in concocting blended signature cocktails.

WWW.GINKOSKYBARMADRID.COM

CRVSH – A HALLMARK OF VERSATILITY

CRVSH, the fashion and accessories firm created by Verónica Díaz, better known as @modajustcoco, presents the latest novelties for the SS23 Collection. Two products stand out for providing multiple possibilities –the Salem bag with interchangeable Camil flaps. Stylish and versatile, now you can perfectly colour match your outfit for each occasion.

WWW.CRVSH.ES

LOEWE GREENHOUSE

LOEWE Perfumes presents its new initiative – a travelling Victorian conservatory that will be on tour in Spain this month. It’s a multi sensory and eclectic space in which visitors will be able to discover a world of fragrances through the LOEWE Botanical and LOEWE Home Scents Collections. Look out for it in the Port of Barcelona until May 9.

WWW.LOEWE.COM

BODEGAS JOSÉ PARIENTE PRESENTS

Victoria Pariente, the founder of Bodegas José Pariente, which celebrated its 25th anniversary last year, is the inspiration for its first rosé wine. Comprising a fine blend of Tempranillo, Viognier and Garnacha grapes, the new blush rosé surprises with its freshness, elegance and complexity, with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and

WWW.JOSEPARIENTE.COM

PARAISO DE LOS PINOS

With the return of warm weather, it’s a good time to plan a dream getaway and Formentera, neighbouring Ibiza in the Balearics, is an ideal destination with its crystal clear waters and Mediterranean charm. When it comes to finding a haven of peace at one with nature, look no further than Paraiso de los Pinos, a complex of 29 suites and six villas.

GREYSTAR – BE CASA

Be Casa is a new model of flexible and temporary accommodation, halfway between a home and a hotel. Based on a well-established concept in the US, the promoter Greystar has brought the idea to Spain, creating three complexes under the Be Casa brand comprising fully-equipped communities that combine comfort, aesthetics and functionality.

WWW.GREYSTAR.COM

WWW.PARAISODELOSPINOS.COM

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

HOT NEW MOVIES

FAST & FURIOUS X

» Genre: Action

» Director: Louis Leterrier (The Incredible Hulk)

» Cast: Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jason Momoa, Charlize Theron

For Fast & Furious fans like myself, it’s tough to think that this, the 10th installment of the successful film franchise, will be its last! Once again, the head of the gang of vigilantes, Dom, must protect his family from Cipher, a criminal mastermind and cyberterrorist. Cipher is working alongside Dante – the son of a drug lord who is seeking revenge against Dom and his crew for his father’s death during the events of Fast Five (2011).

SPONSORED BY RED DOG CINEMAS, PUERTO BANÚS. TO CHECK CURRENT FILM SCREENINGS, WWW.REDDOGCINEMAS.COM

LOVE AGAIN

» Genre: Romantic Comedy

» Director: Jim Strouse (Grace Is Gone)

» Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Celine Dion, Sam Heughan

Coping with the loss of her fiancé, a grieving woman called Mira Ray sends beautifully written romantic texts to his old smartphone number. What she doesn’t know is that this number has been reassigned to an attractive journalist called Rob, who is captivated by the honesty of her words and who resolves to find a way to meet her. When he’s assigned to prepare a profile on Celine Dion, he enlists the diva’s help to figure out how to introduce himself to Mira and win her heart.

KNIGHTS OF THE ZODIAC

» Genre: Action/ Adventure

» Director: Tomasz Bagiński

(The Cathedral)

» Cast: Mark Dacascos, Famke Janssen, Sean Bean

Knights of the Zodiac marks the first live-action adaptation of the Saint Seiya series. The film follows Seiya, a rebellious teenager who spends his days fighting for cash while searching for his kidnapped sister. After accidentally unlocking unknown mystical abilities during a fight, he is thrust into a world of warring saints, where a reincarnated goddess requires his protection. To survive, he must face his destiny and make great sacrifices to claim his rightful place among the Knights of the Zodiac.

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 3

» Genre: Adventure

» Director: James Gunn (Guardians of the Galaxy and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2)

» Cast: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper Volume 3 of Guardians of the Galaxy begins with the dedicated Guardians adjusting to life on Knowhere — a fantastical location on the edge of the Galactic Rim, represented as the severed head of a Celestial. Rocket (the intelligent, anthropomorphic raccoon and weapons expert) is taunted by his past and Peter Quill decides to lend him a helping hand. The Guardians embark on a dangerous mission that could lead to their demise.

ABOUT MY FATHER

» Genre: Comedy

» Director: Laura Terruso (Fits and Starts)

» Cast: Robert De Niro, Kim Cattrall, Leslie Bibb Sebastian shares some great news with his father, Salvo: he’s about to propose to his American girlfriend! Salvo, a traditional Italian immigrant, suggests that he accompany the young couple for a weekend away to meet her parents. Although the two families find it hard to connect and their cultures clash dramatically, they eventually bond and discover how unifying love can be. e

SERIOUS SERIES

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

CITADEL (AMAZON PRIME VIDEO) SEASON ONE

» Genre: Spy Series

» Creators: Josh Appelbaum (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Bryan Oh (Life On Mars)

» Cast: Richard Madden, Priyanka Chopra, Stanley Tucci

Global spy agency Citadel has fallen, and its agents’ memories have been wiped clean. Now the powerful syndicate, Manticore, is rising in the void. Can Citadel agents Mason Kane and Nadia Sinh recollect their past and summon the strength to fight back? Will they ever remember the promises they made while locked in each other’s embrace? If you enjoy this series, you’ll be pleased to know that it has been renewed for a second season.

A SMALL LIGHT (DISNEY+)

SEASON TWO

» Genre: Biography

» Creators: Tony Phelan and Joan Rater (Grey’s Anatomy)

» Cast: Ashley Brooke, Andy Nyman, Billie Boullet

A Small Light is the story of Miep and Jan Gies – the couple who hid Anne Frank and her family during Hitler’s terrifying reign. The series dives into the humanity of its subjects, celebrating the value of doing the right thing. Far from being dark in tone, it seeks to display the many sides to the altruistic couple’s life, including the comedic moment when they first met.

FUBAR (NETFLIX)

SEASON ONE

» Genre: Action

» Creator: Nick Santora (Prison Break)

» Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Monica Barbaro, Milan Carter

Fubar is an action/comedy series starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as a CIA operative on the verge of retirement who discovers a family secret that forces him to accept one last job. It tackles the complexity of family dynamics, set against a backdrop of action and subterfuge, with heavy doses of humour.

CLASS OF 09 (HULU) SEASON ONE

» Genre: Suspense Thriller

» Creator: Tom Rob Smith (American Crime Story)

» Cast: Brian Tyree Henry, Kate Mara, Sepideh Moafi

This new series follows a group of FBI agents who graduate from Quantico in 2009 and reunite when a mutual friend dies. The lead characters have very different values and beliefs, which sometimes leads to strong clashes. Ashley is an agent who has had a difficult past and who embraces the bureau’s philosophy and methods with confidence and bravado. Her colleague Tayo, on the other hand, is quiet and indecipherable, but his ambitions slowly but surely rise to the fore. The plot covers three decades and runs across three interweaving timelines, examining how the choices we make have irremediable consequences for ourselves and our loved ones.

THE GREAT (HULU) SEASON THREE

» Genre: Biography

» Creator: Tony McNamara (The Favourite)

» Cast: Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox

This luxuriously styled series is centered on the life of the young empress, Catherine the Great, who arrives in Russia to wed Peter III. Stunned by the dogmatic rules and customs that surround her, she fights for freedom and seeks to modernise what she perceives as an outdated institution. At the end of Season Two, Catherine and Peter were locked in a tension-filled battle for the throne, even after she admitted her feelings for him and gave birth to their son. In Season Three, Peter’s knowledge that Catherine tried to assassinate him will undoubtedly lead to further conniving and scheming. As usual, we expect Catherine to stay one step ahead of her deceitful husband. e

HELLO MAY, HELLO SUNSHINE AND HELLO LOVELY NEW TITLES!

THE GIRL WITH THE RED HAIR

BY BUZZY JACKSON

Buzzy Jackson’s debut novel tells the untold story of Hannie Schaft, a young woman who became a Dutch Resistance fighter during Nazi-occupied Netherlands in World War II. Hannie had many dreams before her country was besieged by the Nazi regime. However, with her loved ones no longer safe, she decides to fight back and joins the Resistance. The novel follows her journey through a web of plots, disguises, and assassinations, as she becomes a true threat to the Nazi soldiers, earning her the nickname ‘the Girl with the Red Hair’. Hannie’s bravery and heroism caught the attention of Hitler himself, who ordered her capture. The novel is a tale of love, loyalty, and formidable defiance and is engrossing, empowering and inspirational.

KILLING MOON

BY JO NESBO

In this thirteenth instalment of the best-selling series, Harry Hole has gone to Los Angeles to drink himself to oblivion, but instead finds himself helping an older film actress, Lucille, to escape a drug cartel. Meanwhile, back in Oslo, two girls have been found murdered, and one of the suspects is a well-known real estate magnate. Katrine Bratt wants to bring in the country’s foremost serial killings expert, but the chiefs of police refuse to collaborate with Harry. However, the real estate magnate wants to hire Harry as a private investigator to clear his name from the case. What follows is a race against time as Harry assembles his own team, consisting of a childhood friend, a corrupt police officer, and a cancer-stricken psychologist. The drug cartel has given them ten days to clear Lucille’s debt, and the clock is ticking. With a blood moon forecast over Oslo, the tension in the story is palpable.

DON’T LOOK BACK BY

JO SPAIN

Jo Spain’s latest thriller takes readers on a tumultuous ride filled with suspense and intrigue. Luke Miller experiences one week of absolute bliss on his honeymoon with his wife Rose in the Caribbean. However, as they pack their bags to return home, Rose confesses that a violent man from her past had tracked her down and broken into their home in London. In a moment of self-defence, Rose killed the intruder, leaving a dead body in their apartment. With no one else to turn to, Luke reaches out to Mickey Sheils, a man from his past who he never expected to have to deal with again. Mickey agrees to help, promising to deal with the situation and keep Rose safe. However, the tangled web of lies proves too complicated to hide from. An engrossing tale of betrayal, deception and how far people are willing to go to keep their secrets hidden.

ATLAS : THE STORY OF PA SALT BY LUCINDA RILEY

Probably the most eagerly anticipated novel of 2023, Atlas: The Story of Pa Salt concludes Lucinda Riley’s epic Seven Sisters saga. Spanning two timelines, Atlas begins in 1928 Paris with a young boy who is taken in by a kind family after being found close to death. The boy thrives in his new home but refuses to reveal his true identity. As Europe faces an uncertain future, the boy knows he must flee once again. Jumping to 2008 in the Aegean, the seven sisters gather to bid farewell to their enigmatic father, Pa Salt. To their surprise, it is the missing sister who Pa Salt has entrusted with the clue to their pasts. However, with every truth revealed, new questions emerge, and the sisters begin to confront the fact that their father was someone they barely knew. As they uncover long-buried secrets, they realise that these revelations may have consequences for them in the present. A gripping tale of love, loss, secrets and closure.

THE HUMAN MIND: A BRIEF TOUR OF EVERYTHING WE KNOW BY

PAUL BLOOM

Are you a human? Do you have a mind? Then this book is for you. The complexities of the human mind have been a subject of great fascination, yet it remains largely uncharted territory. The Human Mind, written by a renowned psychology professor, serves as a compelling guide to the vast knowledge that modern science has uncovered in this field. It explores profound mysteries, such as how conscious experience arises from the brain, the role of emotions in our lives, and the impact of biases on our thinking. The book delves into the workings of memory, the causes of mental illness, and the complex interplay of rationality and racism in our society. It also tackles existential questions, such as what makes us kind or cruel, and what truly brings us happiness. While some of these queries have been answered, many others remain unsolved, and even widely accepted theories are constantly being challenged. This book pushes the boundaries of what is known, illuminating the very essence of our being. e

AND

Featuring

DIRECTOR@ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

CHANGES TO

TWITTER SINCE

ELON MUSK’S TAKEOVER

If you’ve been a Twitter user for over a decade, then you will have noticed that the Twitter experience has changed considerably since Elon Musk became the company’s “Twitter Complaint Hotline Operator” (his words, not ours).

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

While some have criticised the changes he has made, it is vital to bear in mind that the new Twitter is still very much in its infancy, and many new developments could make the space a more effective way to communicate.

It seems like Musk is having fun with his new purchase, as was evident when he recently replaced the blue bird that

appears in the upper left corner of the menu with the Shiba Inu meme, Doge (it was fun while it lasted). The blue bird is back, but Elon sent a clear message to users across the globe: expect the unexpected and go with the flow. In case you aren’t an assiduous user, and you are curious about the main changes (or, should we say, ‘tweaks’) that have taken place on Twitter so far, read on!

» THE ‘FOR YOU’ FEED

In the past, users opened Twitter and as they scrolled through their feed, they would see content by the people they were following. Now, users see an algorithmically curated For You feed and many of the posts on their feed are written by people they don’t follow. This can be positive if you enjoy discovering content, though sometimes you may prefer to just stick to the followers you know. If so, you can always use the Mute or Block button for any accounts you don’t wish to encounter again.

» NEW CHECK MARKS

In the past, a blue check mark next to someone’s profile meant they were notable persons, or those with a big following. Verification also helped identify the true accounts of celebrities (i.e., they differentiated these accounts from fan accounts, some of which also had tens of thousands of followers). Musk now charges €8 monthly for a check. Things

are continually changing in the Musk Twittersphere, but currently, affiliated accounts can have gold, grey, or blue checkmarks, depending on the account type. Gold is for corporate accounts, grey for government officials, and blue for individuals. Those who pay for checkmarks are boosted by Twitter’s algorithms and become eligible to appear in For You newsfeeds.

» MORE METRICS

Under Musk’s rule, every Tweet now has a host of information attached to it. In the past, you could see how many times Tweets had been retweeted and liked. Now, you can also see the total number of times they have been viewed, as well as the number of times they have been bookmarked (saved for easy access in the future). You can also see how many times a Tweet has been quoted.

THE VERDICT

For many, Twitter is a learning space at the moment, owing to the vast

number of changes and their frequency. Recently, a designer at Twitter, Andrea Conway, mentioned that the team was working on improvements to improve the user experience.

The best thing about the new Twitter thus far, is arguably the chance to see how many times a post has been viewed. People don’t always like or retweet your content, so it’s fun to see how many came across what you wrote. It says as much for the content you created as for the general interest of your channel.

With respect to the paid blue check marks, many celebrities have simply opted out of paying, while retaining their long follower lists. Others have paid the relatively small price required so that followers know theirs is a verified, official account. It’s up to you how much you value your Twitter account. €8 does not seem too much to pay if you are trying to increase your follower numbers or establish yourself as an influencer in your industry. e

WISH YOU WERE HERE!

Is There Anybody Out There?

Hey You, many of the iconic group’s best-known songs are being recreated by The Pink Floyd Experience. So, if you have the Time, get your Money out and take yourself down to the Benalmádena Auditorium on the evening of Saturday 27th May, where you’re guaranteed to become Comfortably Numb. After all, The Show Must Go On!

WORDS IAIN BLACKWELL

The Pink Floyd Experience.es comprises a multitalented group of some of the coasts’s seasoned musicians who love to play and have come together for this unique show. Produced and Directed by Steve Hughes, who will also be on rhythm guitar, the band features Dex Park sliding lead guitar, Mark Hopkins laying down bass, Nacho Blanco blasting drums and percussion, Ollie Hughes on rhythm guitar and vocals, and Mark Anders playing keyboards. Vocals will be superbly contributed

by lead singer Craig Norris, with Ruth Elizabeth Norris on lead backing vocals – you should hear her rendition of The Great Gig in the Sky –and Lee Roberts on backing vocals. The evening will also see special guest star, Mama Paula take to the stage, to light up the show with lead guitar, sax and vocals.

This is an ambitious venture, with a large number of individual artists assembling on stage to honour one of the greatest groups in the history of music, whose Dark Side of The Moon, a bestselling album of all time, was

released 50 years ago on 1st March 1973. Pink Floyd fans from near and from far will be there for the experience. If you are one of them, don’t miss it!

SATURDAY MAY 27 AT BENALMÁDENA AUDITORIUM. DOORS OPEN AT 20:00, SHOW BEGINS AT 21:00. TICKETS €20 ON-LINE OR €25 ON THE DOOR; €15 FOR PENSIONERS. AVAILABLE FROM EL CORTE INGLÉS, EVENTBRITE, TICKETSOURCE, WEGOW. FURTHER INFORMATION, STEVE HUGHES, TEL: 639 504 101,

STEVEPKM@GMAIL.COM

Take a look at a stylish Majorcan mansion, with magnificent Mediterranean vistas. Check out a fun fashion shoot with outfits by Pepe Canela. Pamper your senses with ESPA Skincare. Be aware of certain habits that can damage your eyesight.

Poised on a rocky promontory in Mallorca, is a family home with panoramic views and architecture that makes the most of its spectacular location

The poolside views extend over Santa Ponsa promenade towards Porto Adriano, where a large number of luxury yachts are moored

LINES OF BEAUTY IN MAJESTIC MALLORCA

WORDS NOREEN JOHNSON/ BUREAUX STYLING TILLE DEL NEGRO PHOTOGRAPHY

The owners of this remarkable home on the island of Mallorca needed plenty of patience during their search for a Mediterranean holiday property: it took no less than three years of careful hunting to find the place they were looking for. At last they discovered the right house – built in the late 1950s by a renowned Mallorcan architect, Pere Garau, and situated on a rocky cliff top on the outskirts of Santa Ponsa in the Calvia district of the island. ›

GREG COX/ BUREAUX

The façade features natural stone cladding and textured concrete, and the extended eaves combine with these elements to give the building a bold sculptured appeal

The property’s location is nothing less than spectacular. Situated on a peninsulalike site, it overlooks two separate bays, with views of the open Mediterranean on the horizon in one direction, and the small port town of Santa Ponsa in the other. This made it the perfect choice for the new owners, who have a large extended family and wanted a holiday epicentre at which everyone could gather from around the world to spend time together. (While it is currently a secondary home, it’s envisaged that the house will progressively become a primary residence as the older members of the family retire.)

Accessed from the main entrance hall is the elegant living room, one side of which is taken up by this intimate seating area. The corner sofa is from PH Collection

Views abound from this outdoor seating area on the terrace, where the custom-made linen seating cushions are by Mallorcan upholsterers Tomas Riera

The existing structure had been subject to a previous renovation sometime in the 1990s and had some unfortunate elements, including ugly aluminium windows that had been added to the façade, and a rather ‘cold’ interior that featured high-shine marble floors. The designconscious owners determined right away on a substantial renovation, and called in Mallorcabased architecture and design practice More Design to work on the project. ›  This staircase connects the lower and upper floors of the house. On the lower floor, a children’s bedroom as well as further bedrooms en suite, the laundry and the wine cellar can be found. The main living spaces, the kitchen and several further bedrooms (including the master suite) are situated on the upper floor. The wire sculptures that divide the hallway from the room on the left are by Pierre-Augustin Marboeuf

The wool rug is handmade by Indian manufacturers Sharda, the square coffee table, which has an inlaid mosaic top, is by Delphine Messmer. The square textured ottomans are from a range created by Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola for Gan by Gandia Blasco. The eye-catching standing lamp is from French manufacturers Adjao Maison. Mallorcan upholsterers and curtaining specialists Tomas Riera made the curtains

Beyond the garden that surrounds the house, the site slopes down to a few terraced areas where rustic seating is provided

Attracted by the practice’s minimalist and contemporary approach, which also features historic and location-appropriate rustic elements, the owners’ brief included a request to use the right raw materials to establish simplicity and serenity in the space. Designer Manuel Villanueva says, ‘We wanted to create a place where people felt comfortable, where anyone would want to read a book, fall asleep, have an intimate conversation.

And we wanted the house to fit gently into its surroundings as well as making the best use of both the morning and afternoon light.’

The renovation began in 2016 and included substantial structural interventions to the pre-existing house. New staircases and passageways were added so as to connect the different areas of the home more organically, and it now features eight bedrooms, most of which are en suite, as well as substantial interior and outdoor living areas, a large kitchen, a separate laundry and a wine cellar. ›

The main living room at the front of the house features large windows that open completely from ceiling to floor

This study space in the main bedroom suite looks out onto the garden and the spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea beyond it. The chair is a vintage Jacques Pergay piece.

The centrally situated kitchen features custom-made cabinetry made from fir wood that has been given an aged effect. The taps are by Vola

Key to the overall success of the design is the way the house is orientated to the outdoor landscape that surrounds and envelops it. With its natural stoneclad façade and gently curving roof, the structure blends seamlessly into its rocky, cliff-side site. The unsightly aluminium window frames have been replaced with a system in which the windows appear to have no frames at all. They are ‘almost voids,’ says Villanueva, ‘which can be opened fully so that the house feels like part of the landscape’.

The design also reflects the influence of more naturalistic – and especially Brazilian – strains of mid-twentieth-century architecture. ‘We are huge fans of [Brazilian architect] Lina Bo Bardi,’ says More Design’s Oro del Negro, and this is clear in ‘the use of stone cladding, the elongated roof overhangs, the massive openings, the open floor plan and the infusion of landscape [into the interior].’ Overall, he adds, the design is all about ‘functional pragmatic living’. ›

‹ In the main bedroom, the headboard was made by Tomas Rier. The hanging bedside lamps are by Arturo Alvarez and the curvaceous wooden Mountains Riva 1920 bench at the foot of the bed is from Milia Shop

The poolside views extend over Santa Ponsa promenade towards Porto Adriano, where a large number of luxury yachts are moored.

This ‘blurring of borders’ between the interior and exterior, achieved via the huge windows and doors as well as by the fact that the floors of the immediate outdoor terraces are finished in precisely the same way as those in the interior spaces, is precisely what ‘the magic of Mediterranean landscapes’ is all about, says Villanueva. Also key to the success of this aspect of the architecture are the wide overhangs created by the home’s undulating roof structure. These generous eaves are ‘one of the greatest architecture elements in the Mediterranean,’ says Villanueva, adding that these have been ‘forgotten’ – or perhaps sadly neglected? – in recent times. ‘They protect from rain and specially from sun,’ he says. ‘Being so far south means that the sun in summer is very vertical, and these overhangs permitted us to use the large glass windows without inundating the interior with sunlight that is too bright, hot and direct.’ Instead, there is a gentle softness to the natural light that floods the interiors. ›

Perfect tranquillity just three minutes’ walk from the house: this cliff-top spot is ideal for quiet reading or meditation

FACTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

Two decades of transforming our clients’ ideas, needs and dreams into a three-dimensional reality.

We believe this synergy is the key of our success.

- Over 1.500 satisfied customers in the last 20 years

- 36 staff members

- 17 international projects in 9 different countries

- Multiple award-winner in the last 5 years

- In-house team of architects, interior architects and 3D artists

- 3 installation teams

The colour palette for the interior design is made up of soft beiges, bone white and warm greys. Microcement floors and pared-back soft furnishings, set off by contemporary artworks carefully chosen by the owners, create a minimalist yet welcoming interior. Natural textures and materials are employed throughout, including signature More Design elements such as untreated wood, handcarved stone and locally manufactured encaustic tiles.

A beautiful blend of inside and out, of softness with transparency, and of the contemporary with the organic, this house epitomises all that is most special about Mediterranean living. Its exceptional design fits perfectly with its beautiful location, and the result is a home in which its owners are set to enjoy a great deal of sun-drenched, relaxed and restorative time.

MOREDESIGN.ES

The stone basins are made of local Muleta and Binissalem stone, designed by More Design and were custom-manufactured by Mallorcan company Perpal I Manuella, which is based in the village of Sóller. The taps are by Vola

TRENDS DESIGN

After a major exhibition on the industry's agenda, it's time to catch up on the latest news from the design scene.

DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN

KETTAL LEADS THE WAY

Favourite Kettal line, Grand Bitta has expanded with two new items for this season, a dining armchair and a fascinating daybed. Gran Bitta is a warm, comfortable collection which features a combination of aluminium frames with braided polyester cords, teak and stone table

tops, and now you have the full range to furnish your outside space with even more comfort. “My aim was to create dense braiding that would still let the air through, reminiscent of the braiding of the ropes used to moor boats (hence the name Bitta, which means ‘mooring’ in Italian), which makes the pieces appear lightweight but,

at the same time, they look just like cosy nests in natural colours to sit back and relax in.” — says its designer, Rodolfo Dordoni. Kettal furniture keeps providing inspiration within the industry and is considered as the ultimate trend setter in its field.

COVER ME UP!

High quality vinyl-based wall coverings are all the rage today, as they can be easily installed over any old surfaces, creating the natural appearance of a real tiled wall, and the colours and finishings are endless. Specialist manufacturer, Gerflor recently released Revela, a new line of such coverings that are waterproof and also resistant to UV rays, making them perfect to revamp kitchens, bathrooms or even outdoor

spaces. Their patented rigid boards come in 2 different sizes, 16 colours, and a catalogue of textures including wood, stone and other avant-garde designs to get those creative juices flowing. Resistant, durable, easy to maintain and free from grouting issues, when you are ready for a change, high-tech vinyl covering is a great option to consider.

WWW.GERFLOR.ES

A LIFE EXTRAORDINARY

“In a rapidly evolving world of technology, we weave a tapestry of wonder and awe at A Life Extraordinary 2023," says Marcel Wanders, Founder and Creative Director of Moooi as it invites you along on their latest ride. Their exhibition is a stunning display of multi-sensorial designs, where the physical and digital worlds complement each other and co-exist seamlessly. Think AIpowered fragrance experiences and soundscapes that will transport you to another universe. Lifestyle brand Moooi's vision lays in creating a fully immersive journey that connects technological advancement with deeply personal human values.

WWW.MOOOI.COM

CERAMIC WALL MURALS

Adding art to a garden wall can be a wonderful way to inject personality and style into your outdoor space, and ceramic murals are a perfect choice as they are durable and weather resistant. If you are after a local affair, G Vega is right around the corner, creating all things ceramic, exclusive and beautiful: tiles, wall art, mosaic tables and garden art made from the highest quality earthenware. Marbella's very own ceramic company,

established back in 1998, recently presented a whole new range of wall art that is available to browse and acquire through their website, and also to ship world-wide. Their three talented international designers (Spanish, Swiss and Scottish) create an amazing

variety of unique and even custom pieces, all by hand, with intricate details and colours that will fit your style or project, and evoke a sense of Mediterranean flare. WWW.GVEGA.COM

THE EXOTIC KINOONI DIALOGUES

Kinooni Dialogues is a collection of finely handcrafted luxury carpets, bridging the historical symbols of Swahili culture with the remarkably refined craftsmanship of Chinese weaving, with both traditional techniques and new technologies. Its carpets and tapestries were inspired by the beautiful ‘Kinooni House’ in Lamu, Kenya. Built in the early XVIII century, Kinooni House was the palatial home of the governor of Lamu Archipelago, off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean, a centuries-old cradle of Swahili culture. It is now a luxurious Swahili residence, an oasis of peace in the heart of the historic Lamu Town, and a Unesco World Heritage Site. In the collection, each room is represented by a carpet and a tapestry which tells the story of that space: a woven dialogue with the rooms they reflect. Commissioned by FULI Carpet, designed by Dutch textile artist Tjitske Storm, visual story teller Studio Marcel van Doorn has brought together this beautiful edition of exquisitely constructed pieces with a very modern, contemporary feel.

WWW.TJITSKESTORM.COM

WWW.FULI-CARPET.COM

WWW.MARCELVANDOORN.COM

For this month’s Anniversary Edition of essential, we furnish a fun fashion feature showcasing local design talent: Pepe Canela.

Born in Madrid, Pepe grew up in sophisticated surroundings. His mother, a client of the best ateliers of the time, imbued him with a sense of style that has become his hallmark. “I learned that elegance goes beyond dressing… it’s an attitude, a way of moving through life.” He studied Design in Barcelona at the Felicidad Duce Superior Private School, where he had the opportunity to learn from the great master, Pedro Rodríguez. His professional trajectory has seen him come a long way, and he has finally ended up creating made-to-measure garments from his workshop in Málaga for a select group of clients who adore his style… classic and somewhat irreverent.

PEPE CANELA La Térmica

DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN PHOTOGRAPHY JOSE CORDERO

Brand: PEPE CANELA

@pepecanela.es

Photographer: JOSE CORDERO

@jose_cordero_foto

Model: MARTA FERRER

@maartaferreer

Agency: NM AGENCY @nmagency

Make up: DIANA HIDALGO

@dianahidalgo_mua

Hair: HANDICAP PELUQUERÍA

@handicapeluqueria

Photography assistant: @berjano01

Location: @latermicamalaga, @malagademoda_

PAMPER YOUR SENSES WITH ESPA SKINCARE

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

ESPA has been an aromatherapy and wellbeing pioneer since it was launched in 1992 by Sue Harmsworth. Holistic wellbeing, pure naturals, and luxurious treatments are the pillars on which her brand was born. Sue, now a renowned spa authority, began her company from the intimacy of her own kitchen. The brand is known for its impressive range of

aromatherapy products – various creams, washes, and carrier oils are blended with essential oils to calm or energise. The brand is present in top spas across the globe, from the UK to Morocco, Spain to the U.S. Below are just a few must-have products from its impressive range. WWW.ESPASKINCARE.COM

1. REFINING SKIN POLISH

A brightening exfoliator to smoothen skin.

2. CLEAN AND GREEN DETOX MASK

A skin nutrient mask that purifies, balances, and refines skin.

3. OPTIMAL SKIN PROMOISTURISER

A nutrient-rich hydrator for radiant skin.

4. POSITIVITY BATH AND SHOWER GEL

An aromatherapy body wash to uplift and inspire.

5. OPTIMAL SKIN INSTANT FACIAL

A three-in-one serum, essence, and oil.

6. BALANCING TREATMENT OIL

A purifying oil that soothes and rebalances your complexion.

DAMAGE YOUR EYESIGHT DAILY HABITS THAT

AND CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE TO AVOID THEM

It is essential that our eye health is always a priority. However, many of our daily habits can contribute to the onset of glaucoma and vision loss. Nimmi Mistry, professional eye doctor at Vision Direct, has compiled some daily habits related to both short- and long-term vision problems. In it she offers professional advice to take care of our eyes by making some simple changes in the day to day.

1. Drinking Coffee

Coffee culture is important in Spain. In fact, 87% of the population enjoys drinking coffee at any time of the day. However, excessive caffeine intake has been linked to eye spasms and increased intraocular pressure, conditions that increase the risk of developing glaucoma.

But how much is too much? Although this depends on countless factors, some good indicators would be nervousness, fairly high heart rate, insomnia, headaches, muscle tremors and eye spasms. Regulating caffeine intake to a moderate level will reduce your risk of developing eye conditions.

2. Unprotected UV Exposure

Unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation can lead to an eye disease called photokeratitis. UV light has the potential to damage all structures of the eye, ultimately leading to vision loss. The most common conditions are corneal lesions, cataracts, and macular degeneration.

Fortunately, the solution is as simple as it is obvious:

wear sunglasses. They protect your eyes from UV radiation just as sunscreen protects your skin.

It is good to keep in mind that not all sunglasses offer the same protection and that, in addition, at some point it will be necessary to change them for new ones. Some indicators that it is necessary to renew them are wear, scratches and the feeling that the crystals lose opacity. If you spend a lot of time in the sun, having a pair of glasses (and wearing them regularly) would be a good investment for overall eye health.

3. Too Much Time Staring at the Screen

What is your favourite hobby? TikTok? Video games? YouTube?

Spending a lot of time on your phone or computer can lead to “digital eye strain,” which manifests itself in the form of headache, blurred vision, dry eyes, and pain in the upper body, around the neck.

The blue light emitted by these devices, with a short wavelength and high energy, can damage the retina. When

we use them for a long time, we tend to blink less and this can make us feel dryness and discomfort in the eyes.

To reduce the risk of eye damage from blue light, it’s important to take frequent breaks and have good eye care habits, such as adjusting screen brightness and contrast and making sure the screen is at an appropriate distance. Using a screen filter can also help reduce exposure to blue light.

4. Tobacco

1 in 4 Spaniards smokes and, although reducing consumption is a priority, the annual percentage of people who quit smoking is negligible. Smoking causes oxidative stress, which has the potential to lead to inflammation in many structures of the eyes, for example in the head of the optic nerve.

Unfortunately for smokers, there is no way to counteract the negative effects already caused by tobacco. However, quitting smoking and talking to your doctor or ophthalmologist about taking certain supplements is a step in the right direction. ›

5. Forgetting to Remove Contact Lenses

When you’re comfortable, it’s sometimes easy to forget you’re wearing contact lenses; However, not removing them before doing certain activities such as sleeping or swimming can have very bad consequences for your eyes.

Both wearing contact lenses overnight and wearing them longer than recommended can cause eye infections. Wearing contact lenses for too long can produce symptoms of dryness and, in more severe

cases, cause inflammation of the cornea due to decreased oxygen in the eye.

Some simple steps to avoid this include setting alarms on your phone to remove contact lenses before bed, placing reminders next to the toothbrush, and making sure you store and clean contact lenses thoroughly.

6. Stress

Stress can directly affect the health of our eyesight, causing from mild conditions to more complex problems, depending on stress levels,

our predisposition and vulnerability.

If stress-related vision problems are under control, they are usually not as severe. The most common stressrelated eye disorders are eye spasms and eyestrain.

If you suffer from these symptoms, go without hesitation to the eye doctor. One of the solutions may be to perform activities that reduce stress such as meditation, exercise and breathwork.

EXQUISITE DINING AT LA VERANDA

Enjoy the elegance and old-warm charm of La Veranda, which is going ‘back to its roots’ by serving a new menu offering its most iconic dishes and guests’ all-time favourites from 20 years ago. Savour mouth-watering flavors created by chef Santiago Altuna. Steeped in nostalgia, complemented by exceptional service and a fairy-tale setting.

Information and reservations:

E: laveranda.villapadierna@anantara-hotels.com

T: +34 952 889 150

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

TESTS FOR SENIOR CATS AND DOGS

“Blessed is the person who has earned the love of an old dog,” said Sidney Jeanne Seward, though many would argue that she should have used the word ‘pet’ instead of ‘dog’. Those of us who have been lucky enough to love and care for an older dog or cat know how special the bond with them is. Older pets may need you to carry them, help them find their favourite toy, or hide their medication in a tasty treat, but the love they give back makes every effort worthwhile. If your pet is no longer a ‘spring chicken’, and you’d like to ensure they have a long and healthy life, then discuss the following tests with your veterinarian.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

» WHAT IS A SENIOR CAT OR DOG?

According to International Cat Care, cats are considered to be older when they reach the age of 11 to 14. This institution explains that it is helpful to calculate a cat’s equivalent age in human years. The formula is simple. “The first two years of a cat’s life equate to 24 human years, and every year thereafter is equivalent to four human years. For example, a 16-yearold cat would be equivalent to an 80-year-old human.”

In dogs, the ages vary considerably according to breed. Most people estimate that a dog becomes a senior at around the age of seven, though this can vary between the ages of five and 12. Small dogs, for instance, typically live longer (up to the age of around 16) while large dogs live to around 12. The

Bernese Mountain Dog lives to an average of six to eight years, so is considered a senior at around four or five years old.

» TESTS FOR SENIOR CATS AND DOGS

If your cat or dog has reached its senior years, speak to your veterinarian about suggested tests. Typically, pets undergo yearly wellness tests that include:

» A complete blood count: This test provides details about the number, size, and shape of different blood cells and can indicate the presence of disease.

» Biochemistry profile: This panel of tests provides information about how your pet’s organs and tissues are working. Its aim is to find problems in the kidney, liver, and other organs.

» Urinalysis: Informs veterinarians about how well your pet’s kidneys are working.

It can also detect the presence of urinary tumours and diabetes.

» Thyroid testing: Many senior cats have hyperthyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid glands produce too much thyroid hormone. This condition stresses the heart and other organs, and medication is required to reduce its effects on your pet’s health. Hyperthyroidism is rare in canines.

For cats (and some dogs, depending on their health condition), an additional test usually undertaken during a wellness check is:

» Blood pressure testing: This test is similar to that used in humans. It checks for hypertension.

Depending on the health issues your pet may have, additional tests may be required. For instance, pets with Cushing’s disease need to have frequent blood tests to assess the level

of stress hormone, cortisol. Too much cortisol indicates Cushing’s, while too little indicates the presence of Addison’s disease. When your pet has Cushing’s, they are usually given medication to ensure cortisol levels are correct. The blood test for Cushing’s is quite special. First, blood is drawn from the pet. The veterinarian then injects a synthetic hormone to measure your pet’s response to it and in a couple of hours, a second blood sample is taken. The vet uses the results to prescribe a specific amount of medication.

Some vets include all common tests, as well as additional ones like ECGs, X-rays, and blood pressure testing. In general, the more information you can obtain, the better! Some diseases don’t show up until they are quite advanced, so don’t forget that information is power!

Have a look at the first carbon zero property on the Costa del Sol and see what top agents have to say about New Properties vs Resale. Consider the many tax advantages of living in Andalucía and check out some recent events in Marbella.

NEW VS RESALE THAT IS THE QUESTION

Quite apart from location, there is an eternal question in real estate, especially Costa del Sol real estate, namely the debate between newly built and resales properties. Which is better and/or offers more value? To answer this, one must understand the context of the Marbella property market.

WORDS MICHEL

CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DM PROPERTIES AND ENGEL & VÖLKERS MARBELLA

The market for newbuild properties has been growing steadily in recent years

In every property market there is of course the distinction between newly built homes and preowned ones. However, there are few regions where this segmentation of the market is as clear as it is on the Costa del Sol, and where the real estate offering is indeed so distinguishable between these two categories. The reason for this is the fact that whereas elsewhere the percentage of new

build homes relative to the accumulated number of existing homes is fairly small, the coastal region has been so strongly focused upon new construction that between freshly built homes and those still under construction or being sold off-plan, they comprise a significant proportion of the available stock.

This means that buying a brand new home is a real option in and around Marbella, and it is indeed

properties of this kind that primarily drive the market, with demand especially concentrated in new villas and apartments that feature modern design and the latest amenities. However, is a new-build always the best option in terms of location, size, architectural design, price and value for money? We ask some of Marbella’s leading property agents for feedback based upon many years of experience on the ground. ›

Top areas like the Golden Mile are dominated by resale properties

Where is the bulk of demand concentrated right now?

“The market for new-build properties has been growing steadily in recent years, with many developers launching new projects in the area,” says Smadar Kahana, owner of Engel & Völkers Marbella. “The buyer today is looking for more modern properties and is willing to wait for completion, especially now that developers are very advanced with 3D imagery and the client can carefully choose the lay-out that best fits their family. However,

the resale market is still a significant part of Marbella's real estate market, and many buyers continue to look for existing properties that are ready to move into, especially in certain areas like Sierra Blanca, Cascada de Camoján and Nueva Andalucía.”

She continues:

“Traditionally, resales still constitute around 80% of all sales, primarily because they encompass most of the properties available for sale, yet it is believed that as much as 40% of all properties sold so far

this year have been new builds.” Pia Arrieta of DM Properties/Knight Frank adds that: “The fact that, since Covid, a larger percentage of buyers come here to live permanently or most of the time has also had its impact, creating demands that favour new builds –such as modern amenities and qualities – combined with more space and larger gardens, which again favours resales. However, both have allowed for a move away from more typical holiday home locations.”

More and more resale properties have been renovated and modernised

Why do buyers prefer resale properties?

“A lot of people still like to see what they are buying, but that said, the percentage of off-plan properties bought continues to grow as tools such as visual renders, Zoom meetings and virtual viewings continue to become more sophisticated and more commonly used,” says Alberto Webster, CEO of Blackshaw Estates.

“During the Covid confinement, people began searching and viewing more online, and this together with the already established preference for modern architectural styles, layouts,

amenities and build qualities gave extra impetus to offplan and new properties,” says Elaine Newland of Strand Properties. “Quite apart of course from the fact that most of us like the idea of moving into a brand new home. Many new developments now offer the chance to personalise your home, and people like the idea of a ready-to-moveinto property that doesn’t require any renovation or updating. In addition, the latest developments often include features such as spas, co-working areas and clubhouses that few of the older ones have.”

Are there advantages to resale properties?

“Definitely,” says Pia. “Older properties are often set in the best locations, such as frontline golf or beach, simply because they were still available at the time. They also tend to be larger, more varied in design and layout, and have larger gardens. The interest in more space and private green zones was revived after Covid, as the confinement experience caused many to desire a larger home to both live and work in.” ›

New builds feature the latest materials and styles

“Another reason for the increase in popularity of resale homes following Covid is that most buyers wanted to purchase and move in straight away. They didn’t want to wait two years for a property to be built. This also leads investors to identify a new market for buying resale properties to renovate and rent out,” adds Elaine.

Does this apply to both villas and apartments?

“The move to larger properties initially favoured resale villas, but recently there has also been a wave of demand for newbuild holiday apartments and modern designer villas where design and lifestyle are key

features,” says Smadar. “People are buying such properties as holiday homes and as a base for remote working and running their businesses from, and of course they like the convenience of moving in without having to spend months or longer refurbishing.”

How do new and resale compare in terms of price and value?

“New-build properties tend to be priced higher than resale properties, reflecting the premium that buyers are willing to pay for a modern, turnkey home with the latest amenities and technology, and also their relatively limited supply and the pressure of rising construction costs,” adds Smadar.

The best locations are usually occupied by resales

Modern designer villas where design and lifestyle are key features

“New-build properties tend to be more expensive than they seem when compared with a resale, as they are generally more compact, so the price per m2 is considerably higher, but then again, they are ready to move into, whereas resales usually require at least upgrading, and you have to factor the time and cost involved in this into the purchasing price,” says Alberto.

How do different residential areas compare?

“In the most established residential areas, such as the Golden Mile, Sierra Blanca,

Los Monteros, Guadalmina Baja and La Zagaleta, resales tend to dominate as there is limited space for new construction,” says Elaine.

“The limited supply and high cost/m2 of some of the top areas has made new residential zones more popular,” says Smadar, particularly in parts of the Benahavís and Estepona municipalities, where the New Golden Mile, La Alquería and Atalaya are good examples, but also in the east of Marbella.”

How do you see this process evolving?

“New build will continue to dominate in the hillside areas with more land, and resales in the more established golf and beachside suburbs,” says Alberto.

“Besides the Golden Triangle, people are also following newly built modern homes to areas east of Marbella, such as Elviria, Mijas Costa/Golf, and Fuengirola,” adds Elaine.

“In prime locations there’s no land available, therefore clients searching for those locations will invest in re-sale homes.

As the land in Marbella and the surrounding area is very restricted, the amount of new construction will also stay limited in the coming years, and we will see secondary locations like La Alquería and El Paraiso Alto developing rapidly as there is still available land,” says Smadar. “In recent years, we have seen a new tendency from developers investing in older properties situated in prime locations, especially with sea views, which they are completely renovating to the highest standard with the trend of completing a concept home with fitted interior and

garden design, so all that the client has to do is arrive with their luggage, unpack and live there comfortably right away. Such modernised homes with the latest design and high quality, built in a prime location, are in the highest demand and will find a buyer quickly,” continues Smadar.

“In the end, it is a selfselecting market,” says Pia. “If prime location and space are most important to you, then a resale or renovated home is the most logical choice. If it is convenience and turnkey buying with the latest amenities already in place, then many buyers

seek out the newly evolving areas where construction is taking place.” Smadar concludes: “Every buyer's preferences and priorities are different, so the reasons for choosing one property type over the other can vary widely. Ultimately, it's important for buyers to carefully consider their needs and goals when deciding whether to invest in a new-build or resale property.”

WWW.MARBELLA-EV.COM

WWW.DMPROPERTIES.COM

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Most new build properties are located further inland

THE FIRST CARBON ZERO HOUSE ON THE COSTA DEL SOL

More and more buyers of luxury homes in and around Marbella are reflecting the global trend towards properties with a lower carbon footprint and greatly enhanced energy efficiency. Besides the reduced impact on the environment, there is also a very considerable reduction in energy bills – a factor not to be overlooked in these times. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

Different developers are approaching this issue from distinct angles, with many focusing on new materials, building techniques, smart home technologies , and the kind of improvements in design and orientation that take the setting and local c onditions into account to reduce the need for heating, cooling and even irrigation. The innovative new villa being offered near La Cala de Mijas by Mediterranean Homes takes things to another level to become the first carbon zero home on the Costa del Sol – actually, in all of Spain!

A HYDROGEN-POWERED VILLA

We’ve all heard about the electric versus hydrogen debate in cars and other forms of transport, but the villa designed by an awardwinning Marbella-based architectural team that is taking shape in the foothills near La Cala de Mijas is, in fact, a hydrogen-powered property with negligible carbon footprint and an incredible 90% reduction in operating costs. It seems the best of two worlds, but of course a home that greatly reduces the need for

heating and cooling, as well as producing its own off-thegrid energy is quite logically going to be cheaper to run. How is it done? Well, there isn’t just one magical machine hiding in a cupboard that solves all our earthly problems; the Zero Carbon Villa is actually a composite of high-tech solutions using the British

Creo system of construction and engineering. It combines several elements, starting with highly ecofriendly building materials, architectural design and engineering that harmonise the conditions of the setting and optimise the functioning of the systems, as well as innovative renewable energy technology. ›

THE BUILDING BLOCKS

Though the aesthetic design is comparable with that of other quality modern villas, the materials from which the home is built represent a major leap forward in the construction industry. Tested and certified by the BBA (British Board of Agrément), the CREO ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) wall system provides the framework for in-situ dense aggregate concrete walls made from Creo Blocks that enjoy a new level of thermal insulation and efficiency. Achieving this standard of thermal flow integrity forms the basis for the next and even more avant-garde step in the process.

SUN, WATER AND POWER

The villa has something no other home in Spain has yet been able to boast – a hydrogen electricity generator and accompanying H2 tank and hot water boiler. The Creo Hydrogen Power System uses water in combination with the sun’s energy captured with solar panels to produce hydrogen, which in turn is harnessed to produce electricity through a specialised generator that by-passes conventional fossil fuel sources, to provide the house with offthe-grid independence and power it with carbon-free

renewable green energy. Based in Wales, Creo is one of those companies leading the way in using new tech to create practical solutions, and the system is being rolled out in the UK and parts of Europe following the results of a test house built in Wales. Besides residential and commercial projects, the company is also expanding into H2 fuelling stations and currently designing a mini-grid power station that will produce green hydrogen-based electricity. It is a daring move, and just the kind of quantum leap thinking that will provide the solutions we need. ›

THE COAST’S MOST ADVANCED CONCEPT

In many ways, this luxurious 650m2 villa set upon a scenic hillside location near Mijas Costa is just like any other exclusive designer home on the coast, complete with stylish open plan living, top-of-therange appliances, bespoke amenities and inspiring sea views, but it is under the skin that it represents a truly advanced concept. Upon completion, the final technical inspection and certification will determine whether the villa has a greatly diminished carbon footprint or has even achieved a zero-carbon rating.

Offered with a ten-year building guarantee and also with technical support service, the Carbon Zero Villa combines sleek architectural styling and refined comfort with technology that is causing waves in the construction industry while impressively reducing both the home’s operating bills and the cost to the environment.

WWW.MEDITERRANEANHOMES.EU

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

bbusiness news

SO/ Sotogrande Deemed a Bike Territory by the Royal Spanish Cycling Federation

The SO/ Sotogrande has achieved quite a feat. It is the first five-star resort on the Coast to have been deemed a Bike Territory by the Royal Spanish Cycling Federation. Its unique location enables guest to enjoy a host of routes from the areas close to Gibraltar all the way to the Málaga Coast. The resort enjoys over 300 sunny days, making it easy for athletes and health lovers to plan a getaway that blends activity and relaxation.

WWW.SO-SOTOGRANDE.COM

Agrojardín Builds New Green Zones

Popular gardening company, Agrojardín, is currently constructing new green zones in the areas of Mirador del Carmen and the new Estepona Boulevard. A host of beautiful plants are already growing bountifully in this area –including palm trees and leafy trees. The aim is for residents and visitors to take relaxing walks beneath the shade of trees.

Cívitas Puerto Banús Launches New Floating Piers

Cívitas Puerto Banús recently held an event to officially present the first phase of a new floating pier project, which has significantly improved the nautical installations of the port. The works were made possible thanks to a €2 million investment. Work has also been carried out to improve the port’s electrical installations, potable water supply, carpark areas, landscaping, and entries to the piers. WWW.PUERTO-BANUS.COM

WWW. AGROJARDIN.ES

Spring Party to Battle Cancer

The Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (the Spanish Anti-Cancer Association) recently held a press conference to announce the first Spring Party Against Cancer in Marbella. The event will take place on May 27 by the Hard Rock Hotel pool. It will start at 2pm and last until late and will feature music from the 1980s and 1990s, mixed by DJ Kike Supermix, as well as a concert by iconic group, La Unión.

FURTHER INFORMATION, WWW.ASOCIACIONCONTRAELCANCER.ES

Mirador del Carmen Sociocultural Centre Opens in Estepona

The Mirador del Carmen Sociocultural Centre was recently launched in Estepona, with a view to showing off beautiful artworks. Its first exhibition features 46 works from the collection of the Carmen Thyssen Museum in Málaga. The building was designed by Malagueñan architect, Salvador Moreno Peralta and was made possible thanks to a €15 million investment. The current exhibition – featuring works by Joaquín Sorolla, Julio Romero de Torres, Mariano Fortuny, Antoni Tàpies, Antonio Saura, and more – will run until September 25.

Luxury Villa Rentals Are Booming in Marbella

Luxury tourism is growing by 30 per cent in Málaga and the holiday rental market is experiencing a surge too, according to a study by the Institute of Statistics and Cartography of Andalusia. In fact, around 57 per cent of the total supply of tourist accommodation on the Coast comprises holiday rental properties. Marbella Mountain Resorts, a luxury rental management and tourism services company with over 15 years’ experience, is ready to help homeowners monetise the real estate that they don’t live in throughout the year. The company provides rental management services for 30 exclusive luxury villas, with a total of 150 accommodation places in the area.

WWW.MARBELLAMOUNTAINRESORTS.COM

Five Komodo Dragons Born at Bioparc Fuengirola

Bioparc Fuengirola is now home to five baby Komodo dragons that will eventually measure 2.5m long and weight around 70 kilograms! The eggs were laid in the summer of 2022, and were incubated under controlled conditions for almost eight months. Bioparc is the only conservation centre to have achieved its reproduction goals for the Komodo dragon (which is under threat of extinction) in Spain. Bioparc is also delighted to announce that El Corte Inglés (ECI) will continue to donate excess fruits and vegetables for consumption by its animals. In 2022, ECI donated over 16,000 kilos of food for this purpose. WWW.BIOPARCFUENGIROLA.ES

The Mayor of Málaga Receives the Maimónides Award

The Mayor of Malaga, Francisco de la Torre, has received the Maimónides Award, which prizes his 22 years in the Málaga

City Council and his work in making the city a benchmark for culture, technology, tourism, and transformation. The award was given by The Association of Friends of Tel Aviv University at a charity gala held at the Grand Hotel Miramar 5* GL.

WWW.MALAGA.ES

Ciria Returns to Málaga to Present New Book and Documentary

Ciria, one of Spain’s most renowned artists, recently returned to Málaga to present a new book, Ciria No Está En Arco and documentary which typify the controversial role he plays on the art scene. The book focuses on the artist’s performance at the Spanish international art fair, ARCO, and his peaceful, unauthorised ‘invasion’ of the event. The presentation was made at the Pompidou Centre of Málaga. Ciria has exhibited at some of the most prestigious art havens in the world, including MOMA in New York, the Cervantes Institute in Chicago, and the Neomudéjar in Madrid.

WWW.JOSECIRIA.COM

Casino Marbella Presents The Night of Excellence

Casino Marbella recently launched a new exhibition entitled The Night of Excellence, featuring numerous paintings from the Excellence Art Gallery in Paris that were recently exhibited at the International Art Fair in Porte de Versailles. The exhibit features works by Massimo Cedrini, Samuel Benarroch, Pilar Segarra, Juan Manuel Silva, and many more internationally renowned artists.

WWW.CASINOMARBELLA.COM

Quirónsalud Málaga Now Offers 5G, 5D Pregnancy Ultrasounds

Quirónsalud Málaga has incorporated 5G technology into its 5D pregnancy ultrasounds. This enables patients to share ultrasound broadcasts with anyone in the world in real time. 5D ultrasounds allow patients to visualize the full volume of the foetus in movement in a sharp, precise, clear manner, with higher resolution and better lighting than those offered by 4D ultrasounds.

A Stylish New Office for Drumelia

Real estate firm, Drumelia, now has a brand-new office, where luxury meets high-end service. Located in Puerto Banús, it has been designed to embody the essence of the brand, and reflects the company’s commitment to excellence and high-quality service. The management sought to devise a workspace that inspires creativity and fosters a sense of communi y. As such, they spared no expense in creating a truly exceptional space.

WWW.DRUMELIA.COM

The Barcelona Connection by Timothy Parfitt

If you enjoy reading crime thrillers infused with a dose of black comedy, then check out The Barcelona Connection by Tim Parfitt. Planned as the first in a series of books about an art detective, it is also in development as a TV series. The story centres on a painting by Salvador Dalí and a kidnapped matador, and is set in Barcelona during a G20 Summit and UN Climate Change Conference. The action moves from Nîmes in the South of France to Girona, Barcelona, Figueres and Cadaqués.

WWW.TIMOTHYPARFITT.COM

Fundación Olivares Presents La Carrera Nocturna Night Fun Run

Fundación Olivares, a charity which has been working for 13 years to help children with cancer, recently presented the details of its fundraising night fun run, called La Carrera Nocturna. The event will take place on July 1 and will feature a kids’ run followed by parallel five- and 10-kilometre runs.

TO TAKE PART IN THIS FUN EVENT, VISIT WWW.FUNDACIONOLIVARES.ORG

Dom3 Unites Top Agents from the High-End Real Estate Sector

The Dom3 Association of Businesses for High Quality Housing recently brought together top agents from across the highend residential sector. During the event, held at Coto restaurant in La Zagaleta, economic forecasts for the sector and news on upcoming actions for DOM3 were provided to guests. Also attending were dignitaries such as the Mayor of Benahavís, José Antonio Mena, the City Council’s Tourism Counsellor, Scott Marshall, and the Counsellor for Employment, Cristóbal Garre.

Bresh – The Loveliest Party in the World Lands at Autocine Málaga

Bresh – a party that is the buzzword among celebrities and influencers – recently took place at Autocine Málaga CesurFP. This worldwide event is particularly popular because nobody knows who will appear on stage – and guests are always pleasantl y surprised! After Bresh, the drivethrough theatre converted to a concert space to welcome the Sabatic Festival – a musical event that will feature over 40 concerts.

WWW.AUTOCINES.COM

Real Club de Golf Las Brisas Raises €5.000 for Cudeca

The Real Club de Golf Las Brisas recently hosted the 24th edition of the fundraising golfing event, the Pro-Am Sebastián de Miguel Memorial. The club raised €5.000 for cancer care hospice, Cudeca, while participants enjoyed three amazing days of golf. On Friday, a welcome cocktail was held to present the Pro-Am, and tee times were drawn. On Saturday, the first round took place, awarding the two best net scores for each hole. On Sunday, the second round was held, alongside the cocktail party and gala ceremony.

WWW.CUDECA.ORG

THE TAX BENEFITS OF LIVING IN ANDALUCÍA

We often meet people who would love to live in Spain full time but limit their time here to avoid meeting the tax residence criteria. But Spanish taxation can be lower than you expect, particularly on investment capital and wealth, as much depends on how you hold your assets. The situation improved further over recent years, with the Andalucian government taking steps to make the region very competitive from a tax point of view.

NO REGIONAL WEALTH TAX

Spain’s annual wealth tax, applied on worldwide assets, impacts wealthier individuals and is one reason some choose not to live here.

But last year Andalucía effectively abolished wealth tax for its local taxpayers. With effect from the 2022 financial year, it applies a 100% relief. Although those with

wealth above €2 million remain obliged to file the tax return, the 100% reduction means they have zero liability. The only other region to do this is Madrid.

Spain has since introduced the ‘solidarity tax on large fortunes’ (wealth tax by another name) which is controlled by the state not regions. However, it is a temporary tax, currently only scheduled to apply for 2022 and 2023, and thanks to the high allowances it only really affects those with wealth over €4 million.

REDUCED INCOME TAX RATES

While tax rates on savings income are set solely by the state, tax on general income is split between the state and regional government.

Andalucía has reduced its local income tax rate over recent years, making the local scale rates of income tax competitive compared to other Spanish regions.

We may be biased, but Andalucía has always been an appealing place to live. The coastline, inland villages, history, culture, food, weather and lifestyle all combine to make it a dream destination. And now, the advantages of residence also include tax benefits.

WORDS PAUL MONTAGUE, PARTNER, BLEVINS FRANKS

BENEFICIAL INHERITANCE TAX REGIME

Spanish succession and gift tax is applied on each beneficiary and falls due when either the beneficiary is resident in Spain, or the asset being gifted or inherited is a Spanish asset. Beneficiaries are grouped according to their kinship with the donor, with no blanket exception for spouses. Tax rates and allowances are determined by the state each year, but the regions can make them more beneficial for local residents – which is exactly what Andalucía has done.

The top succession tax rate in Andalucía, for example, is 26% (for amounts over €800.000) which compares favourably to the state’s top rate of 34%.

This tax regime also applies multipliers, based on the beneficiary’s pre-existing wealth and degree of kinship, which sometimes significantly increases the tax liability.

Andalucía, however, only adds multipliers based on kinship – spouses, descendants and ascendants are excluded, and

the multipliers are favourable for everyone else. Even better than this, Andalucía provides high personal reductions. For inheritances (not gifts), descendants, ascendants and spouses receive up to €1 million tax free (as opposed to the state’s €15.957), as well as a 99% tax relief. Siblings, cousins, nieces/nephews, inlaws, stepchildren etc receive a reduction of €10.000.

Additionally, the main home is reduced by 99% for inheritances received by close family, with no maximum cap. This is provided the beneficiary is a spouse/civil partner, ascendant, descendant, or other relative over 65 who lived with the deceased the previous two years, and they do not sell the property for three years.

DIGITAL NOMAD VISA AND ITS BENEFICIAL TAX REGIME

This is not an Andalucía benefit as such, it applies to all of Spain, but will appeal if you can work remotely

in Spain. The new Digital Nomad Visa has made it possible for non-EU nationals to live and work in Spain if they are able to work remotely. There are various conditions so establish if you are eligible. If you are, you may then be able to apply for the special tax regime commonly called the ‘Beckham Law’. Provided you fulfil a series of requirements, you could opt to be taxed under the non-resident tax rules for up to six years, which could considerably reduce your overall tax liabilities.

Take personalised, specialist advice to establish exactly how much tax you could save by being resident in Andalucía. The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice.

GUNNEL’S FASHION MARBELLA

GGunnel’s Fashion Marbella held a well-attended Easter Friday event combining cars and fashion at Centro Plaza in Nueva Andalucía. Guests enjoyed a fashion show with the Melissa Odabash and Blond Hour Summer Collections, while C. De Salamanca presented the new electric hybrid Jaguar E-Pace Phev, as well as new versions of the Land Rover and Range Rover Sport

WWW.GUNNELSFASHIONMARBELLA.COM WWW.CDESALAMANCA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

GALLERY S1A PRIVATE VIEWING

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Gallery S1A, in collaboration with Bacus Vinos Y Licores, invited selected guests to a private viewing of a collection of works of art. The exhibition, curated by Eleanor McKenzie of S1A, featured art by Brian Travers of UB40, John Illsley of Dire Straights, Adam Sargent, and Art Ranger.

SOTANO1ARTE@GMAIL.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

INCAN-DESCENCE AT COYA

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It was party-on at the recent launch event for Coya at Hotel Puente Romano. Guests were enamoured with the delicious Peruvian Nikkei tapas with an Asian twist that are the hallmark of the COYA Group’s cuisine. The new venue is a welcome addition to the hotel’s culinary offering and looks like being a popular spot this summer.

WWW.PUENTEROMANO.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

WOMEN IN LUXURY BUSINESS MARBELLA

The WLBM group hosted The Women Behind the Brand event at the exclusive Anantara VILLA PADIERNA Palace, where local luxury brands led by women and interesting personalities were presented, with a coaching session, networking space, and a professional branding photoshoot for each guest.

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Founded by Paula Leschot, Thaiss H. Mazzanti, and Dominique Alexandra Forsström, the WLMB is a space for communication, marketing, and the expansion of luxury brands and personal branding.

@WLBMARBELLA

PHOTOGRAPHY JULIA RODER

UNITING THE WORLD

The Salón Andalucía at Hotel Puente Romano was the venue for the First International Charity Festival, Uniting the World. The event featured a night of music, artists and prizes, raising funds for Cudeca, Hugging Nepal, Aguja Solidaria, Diksha España and Rotary San Pedro.

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WWW.ROTARYSANPEDRO.ORG

WWW.ASOCIACIONDIKSHA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Top restaurants abound on the Coast, but they don’t come much better than the new COYA at Hotel Puente Romano, and Palodú in Málaga, recognised as the best restaurant in the city in 2019. Top chefs are also prevalent, such as Juanjo Carmona of Cávala.

WORDS JAMES SINCLAIR  PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

PERUVIAN PERSUASION

If you haven’t been to the new COYA at Puente Romano, it’s time to remedy that as you are missing out on a firstclass experience.

COYA is a global group of luxury lifestyle restaurants focused on Peruvian and Asiatic Nikkei cuisine, with locations in some of the world’s top cities. The new venue at Puente Romano is the 10th in the group, with another following in Barcelona this summer.

INCAN–DESCENCE

We went for the COYA experience on a Tuesday evening and were surprised to find it so buzzing, despite only opening recently, so to avoid disappointment, make sure to reserve beforehand. The anticipation builds as you pass the Incan statues on the approach, stopping at the full size llama

guarding the door. You are greeted with a warm welcome by the girls on reception, and the friendly staff smiling and saying hello as you are shown to your table.

The restaurant occupies a spacious plaza, with a retractable open roof, surrounded by lush vegetation and Incan

ornamentation. You are immediately grasped by a captivating ambience, the result of many people relaxing and enjoying life together on comfortable chairs and sofas, with great background music from the live DJ, and soft lighting from spectacular chandeliers, hanging lamps, and spots. ›

TOTALLY ENRAPTURED

Our evening began with Champagne and a guacamole dip, prepared at our table and served with giant corn tortillas, while we perused the menu. This is compact but diverse with options highlighted as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free. There are also daily specials, ‘según el mercado’ (depending on what is fresh at the market). Our waiter, Gerson, was very helpful in providing information on all aspects of the restaurant.

As there were four of us on this first visit, we elected to share a range of dishes, including some signature ones as highlighted on the menu. Our starters consisted of Chicharrónes de Pollo –

crispy chicken with chipotle and spicy guava sauce, Empanadas de Carne – corn empanadas with pulled Wagyu beef and garlic sauce, and Tacos de Shitake con Chalaquita, crunchy tacos filled with grilled shiitake mushrooms, avocado, chipotle and coriander – all were delicious. We also sampled the Tiradito de Hiramasa a la Trufa – a delightful combination of Kingfish, dashi, truffle oil and chives, and a couple of Ceviches: the Lubina Clásica, with sea bass, red onion, sweet potato and corn, and the Pargo al Coco, an exceptionally creamy ceviche with snapper, coconut, plantain, chilli and aji limo (small chilli pepper). ›

Restaurant

These enticing concoctions set us up beautifully for the mains, which transpired to be as delectable to look at as to savour. The Arroz Nikkei is a nice portion of Chilean sea bass with rice, lime and yellow chili pepper. We accompanied this with an amazingly tender Lomo de Res –spicy beef fillet with crispy shallots, aji limo and star anise – and Papitas con Ajo: small new potatoes with coriander aioli and garlic chips.

It became obvious to us by now that the kitchen staff, headed up by Manuel Llaneli and Rosa Saldaña, have really got their act together as the food being served here is simply exquisite! Aficionados of

fine wines will meet their match here too, with a very impressive selection of national and international bottles, and you can choose from an inviting range of cocktails, freshly shaken at the bar. We ended our evening with a trio of desserts: the Suspiro de Coco with coconut meringue, Tres Leches cake with vanilla ice cream, and Churros de Naranja, which was a nice touch indeed – orange and lime churros with milk chocolate and caramel sauce – yummy!

Although it has just got going, it looks like COYA is set to be a regular part of the fittings at Puente Romano for many years to come! e

BEACH RESORT, BULEVAR

PRINCIPE ALFONSO VON

HOHENLOHE, MARBELLA. OPEN EVERY EVENING FROM 19:00 TIL LATE. TEL: (+34) 952 820 900.

WWW.PUENTEROMANO.COM

COYA AT PUENTE ROMANO

PALODÚ

MÁLAGA COOKING AT ITS BEST

Off the beaten track, in an area as unusual as Teatinos, we find Diego and Cristina’s tiny but exquisite restaurant. Easy to locate, the place is closer to the courts of justice, the university and the hospital, than the historical centre of Málaga with its array of museums and tapas bars. In exchange, you will likely find parking close by and can immerse yourself in a genuine malagueño experience.

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG  PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PALODÚ

‘Cocina Dual’: this is how they define themselves, as every single dish is designed and discussed in depth by both chefs, who work hand in hand until both are satisfied with the creative result. “We do Málaga cooking with a twist”, summarises Cristina, while she tells me about how they were trained at La Cónsula, moving on to work in the Michelin three-star gastronomical te mples of Ferràn Adrià and Mugaritz, something that certainly shows in the quality, the service, the creativity and the presentation.

The restaurant started off as an exquisite tapasbar, until three years ago when they decided it was time to move on to a more formal concept into which they could put all their acquired knowledge of local produce. Of course, they were immediately spotted by Michelin which included them in its guide already during their first year.

Palodú is the name given to the liquorice stick, once naturally abundant in the nearby river banks of the Guadalhorce and a popular sweet. They wanted one simple, direct word that

spoke of Málaga’s delicious local harvests.

Palodú focuses on bringing out the best in seasonal produce and works closely with farmers in the province, among others Diego’s own family in Campillos. Barely an hour’s drive away, they source their potatoes and other vegetables planted in advance on demand. Keen to try out new varieties and recuperate often forgotten ones, local producers are given the central space and recognition they rightfully deserve. And yes, you guessed it: the restaurant’s menus are, to a great extent, plant-based. ›

Consequently, the menu changes constantly, choosing the best from every harvest and moving on to the next one once a certain crop is over; you will rarely enjoy the same menu twice at Palodú.

The house olive oil is an absolute must-try. Bitter and very tasteful indeed, it is made from lechina olives from the Campillos area. The name comes from the slightly milky-liquid obtained when the olives are pressed at first.

We decided to try out their tasting menu. For starters we had tuna tartar, as well as some delicious roast aubergine croquettes with yuzu mayonnaise. This was followed by a totally unusual lukewarm

oyster with ortiguilla, an anemone fried in a light batter, accompanied by ponzu sauce, which was just heavenly.

The vegetables that followed were delicious. We enjoyed some masterly prepared tender white Tudela artichokes (though grown in the Guadalhorce area) with a smooth but distinctive payoyo-cheese cream. This was followed by chard stewed in a velvety sauce made with their own leaves, nothing to do with the often-negative idea

surrounding chard as that boring, tasteless vegetable suitable only for soups.

A superb red mullet gazpachuelo followed the vegetables. Málaga would not be what it is without this traditional recipe comprising pieces of fish and potatoes in a soup made of mayonnaise diluted with fish stock. There are many ways of making this traditional dish, however the one at Palodú was on another level. ›

The sweet almond-coulant with its truly flavoursome contrasting raspberrychocolate was a divine experience, after which we were served a certainly different chocolate cake, as this one came with saffron, olive oil and salt.

Finally chocolate and almond with citrus petitfours were served to finish off a fantastic experience of Málaga local produce and cooking at its best.

GAZPACHUELO PALODÚ-STYLE

Red mullet is a big favourite in Málaga and at Palodú they use it as the basis for their gazpachuelo, a light creamy soup served at room temperature. The basic recipe comes from Cristina’s grandmother.

Once cleaned, the spine and bones of the red mullet are roasted in the oven. They are then used to prepare the stock together with vegetables and the mullet’s heart and liver. The stock is mixed with homemade mayonnaise with plenty of lemon and the red mullet is lightly grilled. The gazpachuelo is served on a base of rocoto-roast potato and finished off with the grilled mullet and trout roe infused in red wine. Simply exquisite!

OPENING HOURS:

TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, SUNDAY 13:30 - 16:30.

FRIDAY, SATURDAY 13:30 - 16:00, 20:00 - 23:00. CLOSED MONDAY. CARRIL DEL CAPITÁN, 3, MÁLAGA.

TEL: (+34) 951 777 101.

WWW.PALODURESTAURANTE.ES

JUAN JOSÉ CARMONA

OF CÁVALA

WHERE SEASONAL, LOCAL PRODUCE REIGNS SUPREME

When we first met Juan José Carmona five years ago, he was heading the kitchens at the Michelin-starred establishment, El Lago. The young Chef had a big challenge ahead of him, as he was called upon to maintain the restaurant’s star after Executive Chef, Diego

del Río, commenced a new project elsewhere. Juan José (or ‘Juanjo’, as he is better known) took the reins of El Lago with aplomb, giving great prominence to local vegetables, fish, and seafood. As was expected given his experience and talent, he maintained the star and lent his personal touch to the alwaysexcellent menu at this Marbella stalwart.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY BOSCO MARTÍN

In my first interview with Juanjo, I mentioned a quality that is often lacking in busy chefs yet abounds in him – mindfulness. Chefs work long hours and there is no doubt that theirs is a stressful and demanding job. Yet Juanjo always had a calm air to him; he was fully present, generous, and relaxed. It is a pleasure to see that time has not changed him, despite even greater responsibility being placed on his shoulders. For he is now the Executive Chef of Cávala, famed for its zerokilometre, healthy menu –

one in which fish, seafood, and seasonal vegetables are the star players. He may be young, but he is also a devoted father-ofthree who has somehow found the kind of work-life balance that enables him to perform his job with authentic joy. His CV is impressive indeed, since he honed his craft under some of Spain’s best Chefs – including Dani García at Tragabuches, Andoni Luis Aduriz at Mugaritz, and Josean Alija of Nerua. Cávala has now been open for three years, and is a favourite among culinary

critics. Juanjo says, “What we serve very much depends on the catch of the day. We receive our products from Gibraltar, Tarifa, Málaga, Nerja, Vélez-Málaga, and other nearby areas. We also serve sea snails, a product which is hard to find in restaurants on the Coast.” The restaurant sources some of its seafood from Huelva, and obtains sea urchins and large mussels from Galicia. “Produce has to be very special for us to source it from other provinces.” ›

Juanjo prioritises health in his dishes, so Cávala isn’t the type of place where you will find rich, buttery dishes. “I want my diners to live long!” he smiles, adding that sustainability is another big priority. “By sourcing zero-kilometre products, we significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Málaga is an excellent source of fish and seafood but we also have a thriving agricultural history and a wealth of

vegetables to choose from.”

He highlights the wine list at Cávala: “We serve wines from around the world –including the U.S., South Africa, and Australia. In fact, wine plays an important role in our interior design. You can see our collection of bottles from anywhere in the restaurant and our sommelier, David Orellana (from Montilla) is always on hand to recommend the perfect pairing.”

At Cávala, you can choose from different dining experiences, as there is an à la carte and a tasting menu. “The tasting menu has nine courses – including sea snails, fish, sea urchin… the dishes change in line with the products we receive daily, though we do have staple plates. Diners can also craft their menu by ordering two or more medias raciones (half-sized dishes) instead of a full-sized dish.”

One of the biggest stars at Cávala is the Robata grill, which enables the team to cook a wide array of products over top-quality charcoal. “We start off with good produce and serve it with healthy sauces and garnishing.” Presentation is on point, as are the tiny details that mark a great meal – including the crystal (wine is served in glasses by

Spigelau, Zalto, and similar brands).

Juanjo is immensely proud of his team. “It takes some time to build a perfect team from scratch, but we achieved this goal around a year and a half ago. It’s important to know that if ever I’m not around, things will continue to run as smoothly.” Without a doubt, one can only imagine

that it must be a joy to work for such a chef –one who values creativity, perfectionism, and a concern for people and the Planet, in equal measure.

TEL: 628 021 363.

FACEBOOK: CAVALA

INSTAGRAM: @JUAN_JO_CARMONA

VINCCI POSADA DEL PATIO PRESENTS DINING EXPERIENCE

BY

MÁLAGA’S

ANCIENT WALL

The Vincci Posada del Patio’s restaurant, Entremuros, is taking diners on a journey through time with a special menu that will be served by Málaga’s ancient wall (since the Hotel’s interiors offer unique, direct access to the wall itself). The menu will feature the flavours and textures of Málaga’s rich culinary tradition. Guests will also enjoy live music, thanks to an agreement made between the hotel and Málaga’s Interactive Music Museum. The menus will be served for lunch and dinner.

TEL: 951 001 020. WWW.

RESTAURANTEENTREMUROS.COM

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

SOLLO’S DIEGO GALLEGOS PRESENTS DIEGO AND FRIENDS

Diego and Friends is an event created by Diego Gallegos, the Head Chef of the Michelin-starred Sollo restaurant in Fuengirola. The chef will be preparing mouthwatering, beautifully presented dishes alongside other renowned culinary experts on a monthly basis. This season, the list of invitees is as impressive as ever. It includes Iván Cerdeño, Inés Páez, Miguel Ángel de la Cruz, Fernando Rivarola, Martina Puigvert, Francisco Ruano, Maca de Castro, Joäo Rodrigues, Rodrigo de la Calle, Randy Siles, and Edgar Núñez.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND DATES, WWW.SOLLO.ES

FIFTH EDITION OF CHEFS FOR CHILDREN

The elegant Hotel Anantara Villa Padierna was the perfect backdrop for the fifth edition of Chefs for Children. The fundraising event began with a host of renowned chefs preparing nutritious meals alongside 170 children from the Fundación Pequeño Deseo (The Small Wish Foundation). The theme was ‘Healthy Cooking is Fun’. Later, adults enjoyed an elegant gala evening on the Hotel’s Terraza Linares.

WWW.CHEFSFORCHILDREN.ES

BARBILLÓN MARBELLA: A CHIC NEW BEACH BAR-RESTAURANT COMES TO TOWN

Madrid-born establishment, Barbillón, will be opening an elegant beach barrestaurant in Marbella in the summer of 2023. Situated just 10 minutes from the Golden Mile, it will boast stunning sea views and comprise three different spaces: a beach, pool, and restaurant bar. MRGO Architects has taken charge of the interiors, which boast an appealing Mediterranean flair. Barbillón Marbella will serve the hits its Madrid branch is known for, including Japanese tempura shrimp colitas, friend nigiri steak tartar with quail egg, and Arabian cake. The cocktail bar will feature a host of fresh, fun, innovative creations.

WWW.BARBILLON.ES

NEW CIPRIANI OPENS IN MARBELLA

Cipriani has launched in Marbella, offering a unique dining experience crafted by four generations devoted to excellent Italian cuisine and hospitality. Set in the heart of the Puente Romano, the restaurant serves classic dishes from Harry’s Bar and a variety of specialties, both indoors and on a beautiful terrace overlooking a water feature and surrounded by lush gardens.

OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER, FROM 1PM TO 2AM. TEL: 952 768 277. WWW.CIPRIANI.COM

© Pedro Jaén

REAL GOLFERS PLAY 19 HOLES

Introducing The 19th... wine created by golfers, for golfers!

An exquisite collection of 4 wines, which showcase the best in class of the South African Cape Winelands. The perfect pairing for discerning wine and golf aficionados.

www.the19th.wine

NOW ON SALE AT:

WINE FRAUD

There is no record of the first wine fraud, but back in the days of clay amphoras there must have been many a quick sestersius made by the usual suspects. The types of wine that could be carried on ships and which did not arrive tasting of vinegar were limited to the region around Armenia and Georgia, so there were surely some spivs who would take orders for the best Sevtsov but whose customers would find themselves with a load of Moroccan plonk. No way could it be returned to the supplier so it was used as the vinegar it had almost certainly become as a result of its travels.

It was many centuries later that the first recorded wine fraud took place, known as the ‘Jefferson bottles’. At least one of the players was already well-known thanks to his dodgy reputation in the sphere of wine collecting, fraudster Hardy Rodenstock. He maintained that the dozen supposedly 18th century flasks had been discovered in the walled-up cellar of a Paris basement in 1985. All the dozen vintages were from premiercru Bordeaux châteaux, such as 1787 Château Lafite and 1784 Château d’Yquem. The flasks were engraved with the initials Th:J, implying, according to Rodenstock, that they had belonged to Thomas Jefferson, third President of the USA. This flimsy evidence was the basis for claiming that when Jefferson was his country’s ambassador in Paris, he became enamoured on Bordeaux clarets, and later, back in the good ‘ole USA as President, he gave orders that the White House cellar should be well stocked with them.

Three of the bottles were sold at a Christie’s auction in the 1980s to billionaire art and wine collector William Koch, but doubts soon surfaced, with the Jefferson Foundation becoming involved in a series of lawsuits initiated by Koch against Rodenstock. Rodenstock never revealed the source of the

bottles, and in the book The Billionaire’s Vinegar, by Benjamin Wallace, later to become a film, it is shown conclusively that the wine was produced post1950. The film’s blurb goes: ‘The rivetingly strange story of the world’s most expensive bottle of wine, and the even stranger characters whose lives have intersected with it’.

Christie’s London auction house, the fine wine department of which moves millions of pounds worth of fine wine annually, was also implicated in the lawsuit, the inference being it had not done its due diligence.

The conclusion that can be drawn from all this is that the actual wine in the bottle plays little part in any verification process. Strange as this may seem, “No-one can taste for authenticity”, says Maureen Downey, often referred to as the Hercule Poirot of wine. It is something akin to authenticating a painting by checking out the frame, although of course frames can be changed more easily than bottles. Downey cut her investigative teeth on what is so far the most notorious wine faking case ever, the Rudy Kurniawan fraud. This USdomiciled Indonesian started selling fake bottles in the early 2000s, but he was not arrested until 2012. How his downfall came about is an object lesson for any would-be conman.

Just as in the Jefferson case, the fact that the bottles had been engraved using a power drilling tool unavailable at that particular point in history, Kurniawan was found out when he crafted bottles using fake labels, corks and seals. It was precisely these elements that gave him away. When his home was raided at the time of his detention, equipment was found that could facilitate the forgery of any wine in the world. The bottles were mostly genuine, as he had cultivated sources that enabled him to obtain empty bottles from top restaurants.

The wine Kurniawan put in the bottles was usually some decent Californian vintage, or practically anything short of the genuine article. So where did Kurniawan slip up, resulting in a ten-year jail sentence? Vanity. He loved magnums and could not resist buying them for his own consumption. He also created fake magnums for sale to collectors, although many of these were of wines that had never actually been bottled in magnums. The crunch for Kurniawan came when a Bordeaux estate owner watched dumbfounded at a wine auction while a magnum of his wine was sold for thousands of dollars. But his winery had not bottled any wine in magnums of that vintage. Kurniawan had though, and it was his last fraudulent transaction. Jail beckoned. e