Essential Magazine August 2015 by Essential Magazine

COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

N º 192 - AUGUST 2015

essential essential magazine® marbella

ISSUE 192 • AUGUST 2015

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

MARBELLA

WORLD’S

BEST

BEACHES

DINING

HAVENS IN MARBELLA

STUNNING

MCLAREN 570S

ALEJANDRO SANZ

at Starlite SPANDAU BALLET

IN CONCERT

SOTOGRANDE Expansion

Astounding

Architecture

N E W S I C U LT U R E I P E O P L E I T R E N D I S T Y L E I S PA I P R O I L E I S U R E I G O U R M E T & M O R E

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THE CL ASSICAL WATCH BY ROLE X

rolex presents the new cellini collection, a contemporary celebration of classicism and the eternal elegance of traditional timepieces. consisting of 12 classically inspired models, this new collection combines the best of rolex know-how and its high standards of perfection with an approach that heightens watchmaking heritage in its most timeless form.

cellini date

cartier.es

PUERTO BANÚS: Muelle Príncipe Salman, s/n - Tfno. : 952 908 115

Amulette de Cartier

Enclosed: 1,671 m² Plot: 4,125 m² Price on application

PARAISO BARRONAL Beachfront contemporary style 14-bed mansion under renovation that will set the new benchmark for luxury villas in the area. On a double plot, with heated indoor and outdoor pools, gym, paddle & squash courts, spa and video surveillance security system. Ref. ES8599

Enclosed: 157 m² Terrace: 51 m² Price: € 795,000

GOLDEN MILE Spacious 2-bed duplex penthouse (originally 3-bed) in Monte Paraíso – pools, gym, spa & 24-h security. Ref. ES8357

Enclosed: 439 m² Plot: 559 m² Price: € 780,000

GOLDEN MILE Semi-detached 3-bed villa in Altos de Puente Romano. Gated community & 24-h security. Close to amenities. Ref. ES8047

Enclosed: 303 m² Plot: 515 m² Price: € 950,000

LOMAS DEL MARBELLA CLUB 4-bed

Enclosed: 451 m² Plot: 1,390 m² Price: € 2,700,000

NAGÜELES Elegant 5-bedroom villa adjacent

villa with sea views in Ancón Sierra, a prestigious gated community with 24-h security. Ref. ES6970

An International Associate of Savills

to Sierra Blanca. Sea & mountain views. Spa area & mature garden with heated pool. Ref. ES8514

Enclosed: 428 m² Plot: 1,579 m² Price on application

MARBELLA EAST Stylish 5-bed contemporary beachfront villa in Los Monteros, one of the most sought-after

Enclosed: 137 m² Terrace: 48 m² Price: € 1,100,000

PUENTE ROMANO Wonderful 2-bed elevated garden apartment in beachfront complex next to 5-star hotel. Ref. ES6776

Enclosed: 937 m² Plot: 3,000 m² Price: € 2,695,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Stunning southwest facing villa in La Cerquilla. 6 en-suite beds. Sea and mountain views. Quiet residential area. Ref. ES8324

Enclosed: 558 m² Plot: 1,200 m² Price: € 1,300,000

GOLDEN MILE Spacious 5-bed villa in Nagüeles. Panoramic sea & mountain views. Gated community & 24-h security. Ref. ES7128

Enclosed: 984 m² Plot: 2,112 m² Price: € 3,690,000

SIERRA BLANCA Stunning 7-bed Balinese

urbanizations with 24-h security. Landscaped garden with infinity pool with waterfall, chill-out area & direct access to the beach. A unique opportunity in a great location! Ref. ES7542

style villa in exclusive area. Water features & tropical garden with gazebo. 24-h security. Ref. ES8428

Offices at the Puente Romano Hotel & opposite the Marbella Club Hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

Issue 192 • August 2015

S T A F F PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR

YEARS

GENERAL MANAGER

ANDREA BÖJTI sales@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

U ANNIVERSARY U

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

SALES SUPPORT

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com RÉKA VIDÁTS reka@essentialmagazine.com

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANDREA BÖJTI DESIGN & LAYOUT INMA AURIOLES

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER KEVIN HORN (WWW.PHOTOGRAPHERMARBELLA.COM) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BELINDA BECKETT, IAIN BLACKWELL, MICHEL CRUZ, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, PHIL HARRIS, ALI PARANDEH, TONY WHITNEY, KEVIN WOODFORD

PRINTING JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA DEPÓSITO LEGAL D.L. MA-512-99

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICES COMPLEJO LA PÓVEDA, BLQ. 3, 1º A, CN 340, KM 178, 29600 MARBELLA, MÁLAGA. TEL: 952 766 344 FAX: 952 766 343

ESSENTIAL MARBELLA MAGAZINE

@ESSENTIALEDITOR

www.essentialmagazine.com Member of the Association of Spanish Periodical Publications affiliated to:

conditions:

The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot accept Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the effects of errors or omissions. responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers. Marbella Magazine. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for No part of this magazine, including texts, photographs, illustrations, maps or any other graphics may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. Printed on recyclable paper, produced without wood and bleached without chlorine.

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‘‘Does the new EU succession regulation affect me as a British expatriate in Spain? Do I need to do anything?”

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FRANCE

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SPAIN

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PORTUGAL

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CYPRUS

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MALTA

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UNITED KINGDOM

w w w. b l e v i n s f r a n k s . c o m

En Ex ge clu l & siv VĂś e to lk er s

Sierra Blanca

Offering the most spectacular uninterrupted views over the whole coastline, this majestic villa is certainly one of the most impressive and beautiful homes in Sierra Blanca. Situated on a double plot of 4.068 m2, in the upper part of this exclusive community, built with exquisite materials, the property is a masterpiece of timeless design and elegance. A fantastic entrance hall, beautifully decorated reception rooms, large

bedroom suites, separate guest apartment. Indoor swimming pool, sauna, bodega and bar. The villa itself is built on one plot surrounded by magnificent gardens, while the swimming pool, with capacity for over 1 Million Litres, occupies the second plot and could be used to build another villa. 6 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms. Built 1.596 m2, plot 4.068 m2. E&V ID: W-022O7T. Price: 8.500.000 â&#x201A;Ź

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 Âˇ www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

Unmatched in design and location, this spectacular property is probably one of the most attractive homes available on the beachfront of the Mediterranean sea. Occupying an elevated front line beach plot of 2.700 m2 in Los Monteros, this residence is defined by a remarkable architecture with exquisite details which blends effortlessly into its unique setting. The villa boasts

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Frontline Beach Los Monteros

spectacular in-and-outdoor entertaining areas including several large, beautifully decorated reception rooms; large en-suite bedrooms and many outdoor designed seating areas. There is a spa with heated indoor pool, sauna, steam bath as well as gym and cinema. 7 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms. Built 1.548 m2, plot 2.700 m2. E&V ID: W-01ZHBN. Price on request.

Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 路 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

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Villa with sea views - Elviria, Marbella East 5 Beds

5 Baths

616 m2 Built

Villa - Las Chapas, Marbella East Second line beach 7 Beds Ref: DM1621

6 Baths

408 m2 Built

1500 m2 Plot Price: 2.900.000 €

Villa - El Madroñal, Benahavis Panoramic sea views Ref: DM3516

5 Beds

Price: 1.950.000 € Ref: DM2557

1618 m2 Plot

4 Baths

506 m2 Built 9357 m2 Plot Price: 2.500.000 €

Villa - Puerto del Almendro, Benahavis Sea views 6 Beds Ref: DM3674

5 Baths

519 m2 Built

3500 m2 Plot Price: 2.750.000 €

Villa - Guadalmina Baja, Marbella Close to beach 5 Beds Ref: DM2915

5 Baths

464 m2 Built

1007 m2 Plot Price: 1.950.000 €

Villa with panoramic sea views - Marbella Hill Club, Marbella 6 Beds

1278 m2 Built

6 Baths

Villa - Altos Reales, Marbella Golden Mile Sea views 8 Beds Ref: DM3628

6 Baths

839 m2 Built 1619 m2 Plot Price: 2.850.000 €

Duplex Penthouse - Marbella Golden Mile Frontline beach Ref: DM2934

3 Beds

3 Baths

Tel: 952 765 138 info@dmproperties.com DMproperties.com

Price: 4.950.000 € Ref: DM2096

4795 m2 Plot

215 m2 Interior

148 m2 Terraces Price: 2.150.000 €

Villa - Sierra Blanca area, Marbella Golden Mile Sea views 5 Beds Ref: DM1704

4 Baths

719 m2 Built

900 m2 Plot Price: 2.350.000 €

Apartment - Las Gaviotas, Puerto Banus Sea views 3 Beds Ref: DM3304

3 Baths

117 m2 Interior

15 m2 Terraces Price: 895.000 €

DMproperties.com

Villa: La Zagaleta, Benahavis – Ref. MPV2652: 7 beds / 7 baths / 1,300 m2 built / 4,247m2 plot – Price: 11,000,000€

A beautiful modern contemporary style villa situated in one of the most sought after sectors within the private residential estate of La Zagaleta Golf and Country Club. Stunning mansion offering breathtaking panoramic sea views and top class facilities.

Villa: Sierra Blanca, Marbella Golden Milet – Price: 6,900,000€ Ref. MPV2610: 9 beds / 9 baths / 1,120m2 built / 2,250m2 plot Completely renovated to the highest specifications this luxury family home boasts stunning sea views, modern facilities and premier location in the exclusive urbanization of Sierra Blanca within minutes´ drive to Marbella centre and beach.

Sierra Blanca, Marbella Golden Mile – Price: 4,950,000€ Ref. MPP2499: 4,121m2 plot, UE 5 Best available double plot in Sierra Blanca. Flat platform with panoramic sea views, ideal for building a stunning home in one of the most prestigious locations in Marbella.

Villa: La Zagaleta, Benahavis – Price: 3,400,000€ Ref. MPV2369: 5 beds / 5 baths / 781m2 built / 6,434m2 plot A classical Andalusian-style villa with panoramic sea and mountain views, enjoying absolute peace and tranquillity in one of the most secure estates in Europe.

Villa: Casablanca, Marbella Golden Mile – Price: 1,600,000€ Ref. MPV2655: 4 beds / 3 baths / 229m2 built / 789m2 plot Superbly located beachside villa in a sought after urbanization of Casablanca, just a short stroll away from the best of Marbella’s sandy beaches, busy town centre and all amenities.

Centro Expo Loc. 11-12, Bulevar Alfonso Hohenlohe. Marbella 29602 (Málaga) t. (+34) 952 866 072 | f. (+34) 952 866 963 | e. info@mpdunne.com

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Villa: El Rosario, Marbella East – Ref. MPV2645: 6 beds / 6 baths / 890m2 built / 5,383m2 plot – Price: 3,800,000€

Dating back to 1783 this property has been completely restored with all the modern commodities while maintaining the charm and elegance of a luxury Spanish country home.

Villa: Carib Playa, Marbella East – Price: 1,499,000€ Ref. MPV2525: 3 beds / 3 baths / 394m2 built / 779m2 plot Beautiful newly refurbished villa in a popular beachside urbanization within just 530m from one of the best beaches in Marbella area.

Apartment: La Trinidad, Marbella Golden Mile – Price: 1,100,000€ Ref. MPA2380: 2 beds / 2 baths / 183m2 built / 45m2 terrace Lovely recently refurbished ground floor apartment in an exclusive gated urbanisation offering top class facilities and proximity to all amenities and beach on Marbella Golden Mile.

Apartment: Condado de Sierra Blanca, Marbella Golden Mile – Price: 695,000€ Ref. MPA2658: 3 beds / 2 baths / 146m2 built / 90m2 terrace Beautifully presented apartment on elevated ground floor with ample terrace and sea views. Sought after community featuring lush tropical gardens, 2 swimming pools and 24 hours security.

Townhouse: Camojan Blanco, Marbella Golden Mile – Price: 495,000€ Ref. MPT2623: 4 beds / 4 baths / 234m2 built / 60m2 terrace Completely refurbished property in a peaceful residential area within minutes´ drive to Marbella centre and walking distance to Monte Paraiso Golf and Country Club.

Centro Expo Loc. 11-12, Bulevar Alfonso Hohenlohe. Marbella 29602 (Málaga) t. (+34) 952 866 072 | f. (+34) 952 866 963 | e. info@mpdunne.com

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En Ex ge clu l & siv V枚 e to lk er s

Golden Mile

This palatial residence is definately the most exquisite estate in Marbella. Unparalleled in terms of grandeur, position and sophistication, this majestic home, comprising 11,009 m2 of landscaped gardens and a total stately interior of 3,650 m2. A multitude of luxurious details define this gated property, with a harmonious balance of classical and modern styles testifying to a meticulous attention to quality, design and comfort. The estate affords

lavish entertaining areas, magnificent sea views and twelve suites in total. Other highlights include a private spa with an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, Jacuzzi and massage room, as well as a professional-standard cinema, a commodious gym, climate controlled wine cellar, two elevators and a separate house for staff. 12 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms. Built 4.903 m2, plot 11.009 m2. E&V ID: W-01ZS6S. P.O.A

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 路 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

A more perfect residence would be impossible to find! This residence impresses with its style and sophistication. Occupying one of the best positions in the most exclusive Country Club in Europe, this luxury villa showcases only the very finest architectural accents and quality materials, with endless option for indoor and outdoor entertainment, at the large swimming pool area or the beautiful

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La Zagaleta

manicured gardens. This exceptional villa offers breathtaking sea views from every corner, the latest technology and all imaginable luxury fittings expected from this level of residences including a separate level for gym, a large indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, bar area, cinema and wine cellar. 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms. Built 1.080 m2, plot 4.600 m2. E&V ID: W-021GYA. Price: 7.950.000 €.

Office Puerto Banús: 952 85 98 60 · www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

You only live once,

Beachfront El Rosario: Unique contemporary villa offering luxury and style directly on the beach! Newly built villa situated in one of the best beaches on the coast. Built to highest qualities with the best materials. Gym, spa, large roof terrace. 6 beds, 4 baths. Built 652 m2, plot 750 m2. E&V ID: W-022GJC. Price: 3.500.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Beachfront Puerto Banús: Luxury apartment with breathtaking sea views and privacy. Gated community, 24 hours security, swimming pools, sauna and gym. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 195 m2, terrace 76 m2. E&V ID: W-0138DT. Price: 2.300.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Beachfront Puerto Banús: Luxury villa in a unique location! Large beachside villa, directly on the beach promenade, next to the Marina. Sauna, steam room. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 600 m2, plot 1000 m2. E&V ID: W-01ZXT3. P.O.A. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Bahía de Marbella: Majestic beachside villa set on a unique plot, a few meters from the beach of Marbella. Luxurious and stylish design, large entertainment areas. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 1.149 m2, plot 3.234 m2. E&V ID: W-022KIW. Price: 5.200.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Beachside Puerto Banús: Newly built villa, second line beach, close to Puerto Banús, offering fantastic sea views. Cinema room, private pool, large roof terrace. 6 beds, 4 baths. Built 346 m2, plot 390 m2. E&V ID: W-021ZU5. Price: 1.550.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 · Office Puerto Banús: 952 85 98 60 · www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

we will show you where!

Beachfront Guadalmina: The most exquisite property on the Mediterranean front. An imposing residence, offering luxurious living, elegant classical architecture with a state of the art design, a prestigious location and breathtaking views. 8 beds, 9 baths. Built 2.015 m2, plot 5.175 m2. E&V ID: W-020KOK. P.O.A. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Marbella Club: Set in the most desirable location, in the Marbella Club Hotel, close to the beach, this beautiful villa was recently refurbished and decorated. 5 beds, 4 baths. Built 360 m2, plot 650 m2. E&V ID: W-008PYS. Price: 4.950.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Marbella Club: Unique opportunity! Newly built modern villa in the most exclusive area in Marbella. Sea views, highest qualities, luxury fittings, spa, gym, cinema. 7 beds, 7 baths. Built 1.019 m2, plot 1.200 m2. E&V ID: W-022EKC. Price: 7.900.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachfront Río Real: Spectacular frontline beach luxury apartment, with large terraces and panoramic views. Mature gardens, various pools, direct beach access. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 160 m2, terrace 43 m2. E&V ID: W-021JXZ. Price: 1.100.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Beachfront Los Monteros: Stunning beachfront apartment, built and finished to very high standards. Large terrace, private garden with sea views; direct beach access. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 180 m2, terrace 43 m2. E&V ID: W-022O3K. Price: 1.650.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 · Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 · www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

contents The Trend Cinema 40 Home Viewing 42

128 Enterprise 140 The New DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa

Music 44

Reserva del Higuerón

Books 46

142 Business Proﬁle: Ausbanc

Technology: Virtual Ofﬁces 48 Cars: The McLaren 570S 52

The Focus Sotogrande 58 Calle Tetuán, Dining Haven in Marbella 66 Clé de Cartier 78 Alejandro Sanz 82 Smadar Kahana 84 Victoria Lomax 86

The Style Decór: A Magniﬁcent Villa from Ark Architects 92 Pavés Jewellers New Look Design Studio 102 Fashion: Dolores Cortés Swimwear 108 Fashion News 114

The Spa The Biznaga Treatment 118

144 Events: Spandau Ballet Comes to Marbella 146 The Vibe

The Leisure 152 Travel: The World’s Best Beaches 158 Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano

The Gourmet 167 Finca Cortesín Beach Club 169 TikiTano 170 Food News 172 Kevin Woodford’s The Maldives 174 Chef’s Proﬁle: Ladislao Comins of Les Cubes 176 Wine: Great Wines to enjoy with Fresh Fish 178 Wine: Bodegas Liba y Deleite

The Guide 180 Listings

The Blog

Beauty News 120

189 Pet News

The Beneﬁts of a Standing Desk 122

190 What’s On

Health News 124 A Day of Pampering at Healthouse Las Dunas 126

192Con.indd 1

The Pro

192 Stars for August 194 Family Fun

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C.C. La Cañada – C.C. Miramar – Puerto Banús

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NORWEGIAN PROPERTY DEVELOPERS · MARBELLA CLUB ·

Our goal and philosophy is to create beauty and high quality products in the mid/high end segment for family living in the Marbella region. We are currently focusing on developing new contemporary villas in truly prime locations on the Golden Mile and in Nueva Andalucia. Our properties offer sea and mountain views, peaceful and secure surroundings, yet still conveniently located to enjoy life to its fullest. The villas are designed to be at the forefront of the latest trends and requirements in terms of architecture and amenities, accommodating modern living with the increasing demand for low maintenance and energy efficiency. We offer contemporary and elegant splendour, finished to the highest standards, with breathtaking views and spacious outdoors, offered as ‘turn-key’ properties. Our developments are carried out in joint venture with experienced and reputable local builders and architects, enabling us to provide high quality construction, delivered on time and at competitive prices.

We will soon be launching Phase II of Los Olivos, a project carried out in joint venture with the Vasari group. Other villa projects we have under development are in Altos de Puente Romano on the Golden Mile, La Cerquilla in Nueva Andalucía and El Herrojo Alto in La Quinta.

Please contact us for further information.

TORGEIR WEMMESTAD-HAALAND +34 618 886 885 WILLY DAHL +34 649 723 590 OFFICE +34 952 765 060 EMAIL info@solvilla.no Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n Hotel Marbella Club, Oficina 10, 29602 Marbella, Spain WWW.SOLVILLA.NO

PHASE II TO BE RELEASED SOON New Development of 19 Luxury Villas Gated community with 24 hours security, sea & golf views Modern architecture with high quality finishes Prices from 造 1.595.000 www.losolivosmarbella.com

n io et 16 pl 20 y m r Co nua Ja

n io 15 et 0 pl er 2 m b Co tem p Se

Villa AU14

Villa 704

Villa 1201

Villa 1304

Plot: 1520m2 Built: 352m2 Terraces: 265m2 Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3 Infinity Pool Fireplace Home Automation Parking

Plot: 2616m2 Built: 503m2 Garage and Storage: 411m2 Terrace and pool: 315m2 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 4 Home Automation Infinity Pool

Plot: 4000m2 Built: 356m2 Terraces: 175m2 Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 4 Fireplace Home Automation Infinity Pool

Plot: 3000m2 Built: 689m2 Bedrooms: 4 Guest bedroom: 1 Servant quarters: 1 Bathrooms: 5 Infinity Pool

€1.480.000

€1.380.000

€1.450.000

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Spectacular Contemporary Villas in a naturally beautiful environment. Newly built to the highest speciﬁcations, featuring breathtaking views and stunning private inﬁnity pool. www.mairenavillas.com Tel: +34 952 85 22 22 email: mairena@mairena.com

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publisher’s letter WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL

o cater for the busiest month of the year here on the Coast, we deliver the ultimate lifestyle complement, with a complete content to satisfy every possible reader. August is the perfect month to spend time lazing at the beach and to enjoy some leisurely dining. We bring you a sample of the World’s Best Beaches, avant-garde Swimwear to raise eyebrows, and we stop over in The Maldives. For the latter diversion, two areas of Marbella are acquiring reputations as dining havens par excellence: Plaza Village at Hotel Puente Romano and Calle Tetuan leading into Marbella’s Casco Antiguo – ﬁnd out why in our specially prepared features. Combining both pursuits, don’t miss our reviews on top beachfront restaurants Finca Cortesín Beach Club and TikiTano. We report on major development plans afoot in the lush residential resort of Sotogrande, present a truly outstanding villa courtesy of Ark Arkitects, take an exhilarating

drive in the new McLaren 570S and visit the plush new premises of Pavés Design Studio. Meanwhile, health buffs can check out the dynamic Spa at Hotel Vincci Estrella del Mar and check in to Healthouse Las Dunas for some sophisticated pampering. Personalities abound in this edition, including an exclusive interview with Tony Hadley, lead singer of Spandau Ballet, who will grace Puente Romano’s Tennis Club in concert on 21st August, and a profile on Spanish icon Alejandro Sanz, who will light up Starlite on 20th August. We also talk with Luis Pineda, President of Ausbanc, Smadar Kahana, principal licensee of Engel & Völkers Marbella and now Puerto Banús too, and Victoria Lomax, who was recently crowned Spanish Kickboxing Champion. And if all of that’s not enough, you will find plenty more besides in this super summer issue, so take some weight off, find somewhere cool and comfortable and savour!

TOO HOT TO HANDLE

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the art of diamond setting and flawless craftsmanship

boutique and Jewellery design studio C. C. Cristamar, Locales 15-16, Puerto Banús (Marbella) www.paves.es • paves@paves.es • Tel 952 818 822

baltic

A MAsterpiece inspired by nAture AMber, eMerAld, diAMond And citrine

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trend READING / MUSIC / FILMS / GADGETS / MOTORING / TRENDS

Temperatures are at an all-time high yet we are breezing through the summer, offering fantastic suggestions for your entertainment, including cinema, live concerts, home viewing and top reads from local authors. If you are a frequent traveller, you may enjoy our take on Virtual Offices, though if you prefer to play rather than work, why not escape from it all in the sporty sleek new McLaren 570S?

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Cinema

Home Viewing

Music

Books

Technology: Virtual Offices

Cars: The McLaren 570S

7/24/15 12:49 PM

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THE TREND cinema WORDS MARISA CUTIL

e BLOCKBUSTER » GENRE

Action

» DIRECTOR

ie Christopher McQuarr r) he ac Re (Jack

» ACTORS

Pegg, Tom Cruise, Simon nner Re y rem Je

LAS

OF THE MONTH

nds accept Ethan Hunt and frie mission yet, ble ssi po im st mo ir the e on the tak to e olv when they res onal criminal ati ern int an – te ica Synd ted and cerebral organisation as talen d to destroying as they are, committe s Force. on ssi the Impossible Mi

e l b i s s o p m I : n o i Miss ogue Nation R

» GENRE Comic/ Adventure » DIRECTOR Josh Trank

(Chronice)

» ACTORS Miles Teller, Kate Mara, Michael B. Jordan

The Fantastic Four

Four youngsters are tele-transported to a dangerous alternative universe, in which they acquire extraordinary powers. They must learn to control their new talents and work together as a team, to save the world from a powerful and ruthless enemy.

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Jake Schreier

(Robot & Frank) » ACTORS Nat Wolff, Cara Delevingne, Halston Sage

Paper Towns

Based on the best-selling novel by John Green, Paper Towns is a coming-of-age tale centered on Quentin (Nat Wolff), and his charming neighbour Margo, who build a special relationship. When Margo suddenly disappears, leaving cryptic clues about her whereabouts, Quentin resolves to solve the mystery and ﬁnd the woman of his dreams, but not without losing himself a little ﬁrst.

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Wim Wenders (Wings of Desire)

» ACTORS James Franco, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Rachel McAdams

Every Thing Will Be Fine

James Franco plays Tomas Eldan, a young, successful writer who accidentally hits a child while driving in snowy weather. Although he isn’t to blame, Tomas will pay dearly for the loss, losing the woman he loves and struggling to come to terms with how one fateful moment has destroyed the lives of one bereaved family.

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR David Gordon Green

(Pineapple Express) » ACTORS Al Pacino, Holly Hunter, Chris Messina

Manglehorn

Al Pacino plays A.J. Manglehorn, an ex-convict who lost the love of his life 40 years ago. He tries to rebuild his life in a small town, only to face judge and jury once again when the locals discover his checkered past.

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Unique Villa For Sale

Villa Vasari is located in a natural setting in Marbella Club, in the heart of the exclusive Golden Mile. CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY STYLE IN PERFECT HARMONY • Superb views across the garden and pool to the Mediterranean • Luminous and spacious open plan living and dining room • Modern fully ﬁtted kitchen with breakfast corner and guest room en-suite • Extensive terrace for outdoor entertaining • Master suite with fabulous views, 2 walk-in wardrobe, and private terrace • Lower level area adapted for a leisure room, gym and sauna, games room with bar and a further 3 guest bedrooms and full bathroom. • Secure community with 24hr security 7 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms

For further information contact: VASARI REAL ESTATE Centro Comercial La Alzambra - Oﬁcina 1-3, 29660 Marbella (Málaga) - España Tels.: +34 952 90 71 61 • +34 607 645 545 Mail: info@vasariproperties.com • Web: www.vasariproperties.com

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THE TREND home viewing

Marisa Cutillas brings us a few of the season’s top DVD releases. » GENRE Drama » DIRECTORS Richard Glatzer (Pedro), Wash

Westmoreland (Quinceañera)

» ACTORS Julianne Moore, Kristen Stewart, Alec Baldwin » IMDB RATING 7.5/10

Hector and the Search for Happiness

Still Alice

Alice Howland (Julianne Moore) is a brilliant linguist who ﬁnds that she is starting to forget a few words. A devastating diagnosis of early dementia puts her family relationships to the test. Her ﬁght to cling to the brilliant woman she used to be is tragic, moving and stimulating all at once.

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Peter Chelsom (Serendipity) » ACTORS Simon Pegg, Rosamund Pike, Toni Collette

» IMDB RATING 6.9/10

ASE OF THE MONTH LE RE D DV ED UR AT e FE

Fury

» GENRE Drama

» DIRECTOR

David Ayer (End Watch) » ACTORS Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Logan Lerman, Michael Peña

» IMDB RATING

7.6/10

Hector is a young Psychiatrist who runs one of the most successful private clinics in London. Although all his clients are well-to-do, none of them are satisﬁed. Hector grows increasingly depressed as he discovers that his entire life is pointless. He begins to ask himself important questions such as why we can’t appreciate what we have and why most of us spend most of our lives dreaming of a better future…

in April, 1945, This moving film is set tiated their final ini s ce for when the Allied ean front. Brad offensive on the Europ geant called ser ry Pitt plays an artille e of a Sherman arg ch in is o wh y, Wardadd each of whom , ers ldi tank carrying five so of war. When their has a different view mbered by the tank is severely outnu forced to give up be l wil w enemy, the cre em en y. Among them their lives to halt the o will be forever wh er ldi is one young so ce and disrespect for marked by the violen s during his first and ter un life that he enco only mission.

» GENRE Musical » DIRECTOR Rob Marshall (Chicago) » ACTORS Meryl Streep, Chris Pine, Emily Blunt

» IMDB RATING 6.1/10

Into the Woods

Into the Woods is a good excuse to watch the great Meryl Streep playing an evil singing witch who successfully torments a young couple whose only wish is to have a child. Many classic fairytales intertwine in this musical parody, which turns our notions of heroes and heroines on their head and give a decidedly feminist slant to a good old-fashioned fairytale.

50 Shades of Grey » GENRE Romance » DIRECTOR Sam Taylor-Johnson

(Nowhere Boy) » ACTORS Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Jennifer Ehle » IMDB RATING 4.2/10

Little needs to be said about 50 Shades of Grey; we can’t think of many people who haven’t been peer pressured into reading the best-selling novel about a ‘young, innocent, naive’ woman who falls for a handsome yet tormented billionaire who also happens to be into S&M.

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Beachfront living within easy walking distance of Puerto Banus Price on application This spacious four bedroom home has a lovely position within this most prestigious beachfront development steps away from the sand and only a short walk from Puerto Banus. With a South-West orientation and sea views from the terrace, it has been recently renovated to a high standard and comprises 4 ensuite bedrooms, lounge dining room, modern fitted kitchen, lovely outdoor terrace with private pool and small private garden, 2 private parking spaces. The development has beautiful landscaped gardens and pool area, indoor pool and spa with gymnasium and 24-hour security. Also available for short-term rental. Apt: 488 m2 Terrace: 117 m2 + garden

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THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA? ELLIE GOULDING

Words Rik foxx

Spandau Ballet

Two well known DJ’s will be spinning the wheels of steel this month with DAVID GUETTA (plus STEVE ANGELLO) at the Estadio Municipal de San Pedro de Alcántara on August 1. Ticket info: www.ticketbell.com/musica; and FAT BOY SLIM (plus ERIC PRYDZ) at the Dreambeach festival on the Playa de Villaricos, Almeria on August 7/8. Ticket info: www.dreambeach.es A 21st century regeneration of the SKATALITES, the Jamaican generals of the original 1960s bluebeat / ska sound, are playing at the Arroyo de la Miel municipal auditorium as part of the Benalmádena Suena festival on August 3. Ticket info: www.notikumi.com

Staying with the LIBERTINES, no doubt they will be pushing their long-awaited third album, Anthems For Doomed Youth, which drops on September 4 and is preceded by their first new song in 11 years, Gunga Din, which is already out. As expected, the AMY WINEHOUSE documentary was a UK box office smash but her father was far from happy with the end product, branding it a “disgrace”. He is now in the process of making a movie of his own, saying: “We’re going to invite everyone that’s spoken on the other film and we’re not going to edit it – like they’ve edited me – and we’re going to tell the truth about Amy’s life because this is not”. A short documentary, Amy Winehouse In Her Own Words, was on the BBC iplayer last month and should still be available on various download sites. Also her record label’s boss reckons he has destroyed the master tapes of demos she was recording at the time of her death to prevent any more posthumous albums, saying it was the “moral thing”.

The original members of SPANDAU BALLET will grace the stage at the Hotel Puente Romano Tennis Club on August 21. Ticket info: www.ticketmaster.es

Back in the UK the V Festival runs on August 21 and 22 with KASABIAN and CALVIN HARRIS headlining and it looks like MTV have the rights to show highlights; and the Reading / Leeds festival takes place from August 28 - 30 with MUMFORD & SONS, METALLICA and the revamped LIBERTINES topping the bill. BBC TV and radio will have comprehensive coverage. Check their website for broadcast details nearer the date.

amy winehouse

The line-up for the Gibraltar Music Festival (September 5 & 6) continues to grow, for full details of this impressive list of acts and ticket prices go to www.gibraltarmusicfestival.com

After successful surgery on his damaged vocal chords, SAM SMITH returned to the stage at Scotland’s T in the Park last month but announced he will not record the forthcoming JAMES BOND theme tune as he wants to concentrate on writing lyrics for his second album – it looks like the job will now fall in the lap of bookies favourite ELLIE GOULDING.

LIONEL RITCHIE

Like the temperature, the concert content on the Coast is quite high this month with the Starlite Festival’s conclusion leading the way (www.starlitefestival.com for the full line-up and tickets). There’s more going on elsewhere (see below) but it’s best to check your local weekly publications for any last minute arranged gigs. At the time of writing all info on this page was correct.

If you didn’t already know, there was a major change to the BBC Radio 1 Top 40 chart show last month when it moved from its Sunday evening spot to a Friday. Many big names have expressed they will miss the Sunday show as it was as traditional as roast beef and Yorkshire pud and spoke of youthful memories of having a finger on the pause button of their cassette players waiting to record their favourite songs. A BBC spokesperson said the reason behind the move is to provide a "full stop for the music world’s working week". But the rival commercial radio chart, The Vodafone Big Top 40, which is now the most listened to chart in the UK, is sticking with a Sunday broadcast.

Former GIRLS ALOUD firecracker SARAH HARDING releases her debut solo single Threads on August 7 and will also turn up on the cobblestones of UK TV’s Coronation Street along with the 2005 X Factor winner SHAYNE WARD. The two have been drafted in to help boost falling viewing figures and hopefully pull in a younger audience. LIONEL RITCHIE, who was due to perform at the Starlite Festival on July 29, has found a new lease of life after his performance as the Glastonbury ‘legend’ and saw his Greatest Hits album jump 103 places to top the UK charts the following week. After playing ‘Glasto’ most headliners see a rapid rise in LP sales but KAYNE WEST, the selfproclaimed “greatest living rock star on the planet” didn’t – his albums actually dropped out of the top 50. Apparently his current rider requests include Hummus, raw asparagus and Volvic mineral water with the labels removed – what happened to the good old days when rock stars riders were a dozen bottles of Jack Daniel’s and a gang of groupies?

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www.llodilu.es

New Villa for Sale

Outstanding Villa for sale situated first line on the golf course in Guadalmina Baja. Just 200 meters from the beach and 150 meters to the Hotel Guadalmina. This Villa has six bedrooms and nine bathrooms. The master bedroom enjoys two dressing rooms and two separate bathrooms. The plot is 3,022m2 ant the total built area is 1,018m2 plus a 168m2 terrace and a 90m2 overflow saltwater swimming pool. Wooden floors and top of the line marble bathrooms. Domotic controlled with the best construction and material standards. Underground heating from gas and solar panels, AC with gas. Gazebo with separate bathroom and many other features.

For information please contact the promoter directly: 952-780191 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 653 964609 or email: katy@llodilu.es

New Villa Under Construction

Situated in Guadalmina Baja, just 100 meters from the beach. The plot is 3,191m2 and the total built area is 1,100m2 plus terraces.

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THE TREND books

Reads by Local Authors This month, Marisa Cutillas brings us a list of top reads by authors living in Spain or writing about this beautiful country.

GIRL ON THE GANGWAY BY DC WISHART

If you love travel and you don’t miss a single edition of magazine, then chances are, you are as hooked as we are on our travel features, often written by talented writer, David (DC) Wishart. The author has spent a lifetime flying, sailing and driving to some of the most fascinating cities and natural areas in the world, though his weakness is undoubtedly cruising. David’s recently published novel, Girl on the Gangway, takes us onboard a saucily comic romp across the dance floors, through the bars and between the cabin sheets of an elegant cruise liner, adding a bit of mystery to the equation as well. The heroine, Cathy Robertson, embarks on a cruise vacation to free her from the goldﬁsh bowl that is home, and wonders if she will ever locate the love of her life: her Vietnam war pilot husband who, after 10 years, is still ‘Missing in Action’. Or will she be able to forget him and succumb to her handsome new suitor on the high seas?

SCOTLAND THE BRAVE BY ALASTAIR WATSON

Scotland The Brave is a thematically contemporary novel featuring the running down of the Clyde shipbuilding industry and the question of Scottish independence. Málaga resident, Alastair Watson, has written an entertaining ﬁctional story which is highly relevant to recent developments in Scotland. Its starting point is the murder of Charlie Armstrong in 1950s Inchnadamph. Charlie, the Manager of a salmon ﬁshery and local tough guy, had faced an increased threat from poaching and out of this true tale of intrigue and murder emerges Watson’s story of the disintegration of Scotland and the current political climate.

ATACAMA BY JOE MOSS

This exciting novel about four carefree 20-somethings in a desolate desert in Chile, was written by Gibraltarian Author, Joe Moss. The Atacama Desert, the driest place on earth, is home to many exotic customs and primitive traditions—as well as deadly curses. When reckless Dai removes an ancient tomahawk from an Incan burial chamber in the desert, he and his friends are overcome with a sudden unease. Soon, they ﬁnd they are leaving unthinkable violence and death in their wake. Something is after them. Is it a demented and dangerous person pursuing them? Or is it an ageless evil—the curse of the Incas? Will Dai and his friends make it out of the Atacama with their lives? Atacama is an intelligent blend of fantasy and horror that will have you on the edge of your seat.

GITANERIAS: THE ESSENCE OF FLAMENCO BY TONY BRYANT

Málaga-based English Author, Tony Bryant, has released his latest book – Gitanerias: The Essence of Flamenco, the third in a series focusing on the mysterious art of flamenco. The Author is a former rock drummer who has lived in Málaga for over 20 years. He also spends considerable time in Seville, where he ﬁrst became hooked on the orthodox flamenco style that still thrives in the sleepy villages and towns populated by Andalusian Gypsies. In the second part of his series, he explains how one Englishman became so intimately involved with the gypsies and their age-old tradition. Tony’s books can be purchased online on Amazon.

THE ADVENTURES OF A DOG CALLED SNOWY BY DAVID A. THORP

Girona author, David A. Thorp, has written a beautiful book that lovers of animals shouldn’t miss. The Adventures of a Dog Called Snowy is set in 1902. Snowy is a white Chow Shepherd belonging to Arthur Dell, a renowned Doctor, and his wife, Anastasia, who live in Portman Square, London. One day, while the couple is walking Snowy in the park, their beloved dog is stolen from them, turning their world upside down. The book is written from the owners’ and dog’s perspectives. Snowy does his best to escape, while Arthur and Anastasia try their hardest to ﬁnd him and bring him home. Children and adults will enjoy reading this book, since the conversations between Snowy and a group of friendly animals are as entertaining as they are endearing.

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GÁ EX LV CLU EZ S -C IVE AÑ T ER O O

PENTHOUSE IN LA ALZAMBRA

Outstanding 4 bed/4 bath duplex penthouse apartment set in an exclusive gated development in the golden mile, just a few minutes walking from Puerto Banús and commercial centers. Probably one of the best penthouses in Marbella. Magnificent exotic communal garden and pools. Accommodation on 2 floors. Private lift to the entrance hall of the penthouse. Main floor: Entrance hall to very spacious and smart living-room with fire place, dining- room area with terrace. Magnificent modern top quality kitchen fully fitted and equipped. Superb large terrace, covered and discovered (barbecue area, dining and living areas). 2 double bedrooms with bathrooms, one ensuite. Upper floor: 2 large bedroom suites with balconies and terrace. Magnificent solarium with plunge pool and bar. To be sold partially furnished. It includes 3 garage spaces and 2 store rooms. This property has been totally renovated to very high standard. There is under floor heating throughout and central-air-conditioned.

ENCLOSED: 310 M2

TERRACES: 240 M2

GARAGES AND STORES: 84 M2

PRICE: ON APPLICATION

Avda. Manolete, s/n, Edif. La Rotonda 3, 29660, NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Tel: (+34) 952 81 22 50 Mob: (+34) 629 45 88 86 consuelo@galvezcanero.com I www.galvezcanero.com

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THE TREND technology

If you have been following my articles you’ll know how disappointed I am that I wasn’t able to purchase my driverless car last month. But at least I have the freedom to work from wherever I want! In fact, there are many times that I already do. I escape to tucked-away beach bars or those restaurants with a view where I can think and work without any interruption, other than the waiter asking me if I want more tea or coffee.

The Virtual Office Welcome to your new

WORDS Ali Parandeh

or most of you, your virtual office may simply be loggingin to the remote servers at head office and answering emails on your mobile. But the virtual office has gone a step further than that and you don’t need to work for a multinational to take advantage of it. In fact, I want to dedicate this article to those of you who may just be starting a business, or have not made the change to Cloud technology yet. What I have to say is also very valid for medium-sized companies with anything from 10 to 200 employees that still need to make certain transitions and improvements, including that of reducing their IT overheads plus infrastructure costs. So let’s start with the most basic of issues that all companies need to think of, not just when starting out but also when dealing

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with hundreds of staff, and this is the cost of keeping the company PCs running and making sure that everyone has access to all of the data, all of the time. This cost begins with the purchase of a PC and then you add various software packages, the most obvious being something like Microsoft Office and maybe an antivirus package. This can run from €500 upwards but normally is around €1.000 per user. Now, imagine you can buy a PC and monitor for as little as €200 and forget about software and PC maintenance such as physical cleaning, virus scans, not to mention all those crashes and other problems that happen along the way. There are many online Operating Systems and Remote Access Servers (from eyeos.com to iCloud and even Microsoft Office Online) but if you really want a truly managed desktop

office on the beach

that looks and works the same way as your laptop, except everything is online, then there is nothing to touch OVSOL. Created by two young Russian entrepreneurs, it is possibly the best I have seen so far. If you are serious about moving to cloud services this new service provides you with the easiest transition and, if you are just setting up a new business, there is no better way to start to centralise your office and create the space and security for your future employees without the headache of thinking about an IT infrastructure in the future. Gone are the days of in-house servers in ugly cabinets. With OVSOL you can sleep at night knowing that your data is backed up and safe and that you can add or remove access for a fraction of the cost, all manageable through monthly bills. We have made

the switch and never looked back. Adios to Dropbox, OneDrive and GoogleDrive. I prefer to have just one programme or place to deal with that keeps all my stuff together. So, now that you have your office Infrastructure in place you need to think of a few more tools. For any business the first and foremost is a database contact management system where client data and information can be stored and easily retrieved (did I hear you say Outlook?). My preference is for one where my data can be used immediately to create a quote, send an invoice and record how it was paid. After all, if you can’t invoice you haven’t got a business and if you can’t keep track of how much you have sold and who hasn’t paid you then you are in deep trouble straight away.

(Continued on page 50)

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There are many different accounting tools but for most of us what we want is something that’s easy and doesn’t require reading a 200 page manual or a degree in accounting. Fortunately, the start-up scene has been equally active in this sector and you can choose between a myriad of tools, from Curdbee to Invoice Machine, Zoho, Ronin, Paymo to Harvest and my personal favourites Konssult and Pepper CRM. What I most like about Pepper CRM is that it is a customer database, CRM, quote and invoice generating package all in one. It is the simplicity of the program that differentiates it from the rest. Once you have added a few clients, created a few quotes and invoices, the search facility is great. One search box allows you to look for anything from a product, customer phone number, a quote or an invoice. In fact, it will display the results in multiple categories. Create renewal orders and receive reminders, keep track of all communication and conversations with the client all from the same platform. It is simple and easy to setup but, most importantly, it is compliant with the new direct debiting system that has come into force in Europe (SEPA). So forget

those stupid bank programs that take forever to conﬁgure, add and remit invoices for direct debiting. For us it has meant a minimum saving of 4 hours every month just by simplifying the direct debit process, not to mention bringing in that hard earned cash. If you need a Spanish speaking solution, then Konssult is perfect along with its built-in consultancy. It is not available as yet in English but it is simple to use and setup as well as very powerful. So now you have the basics sorted you can sit back and start sipping on that piña colada, because no-one really needs to know where you are working from. Yeah, it has been possible for some time now but it is becoming easier and it is getting even better. Now that we have removed those slow, remote connections to heavy, old-enterprise servers with a fresh, online desktop, centralised document storage, managed back-up service with no worries about virus attacks, all you need is a 4G connection and a VoIP service to handle your calls! Meet Nicola, your virtual secretary. Nicola is a name I just made up, but in reality it does not matter what name you give your virtual secretary. The fact is that

she is not so much virtual as real, answering phone calls for you, taking messages and diverting the important calls to your mobile. A virtual secretary like this can really give your image a boost. We all know that image is everything so once you have grabbed the attention of your customer with your website or your fantastic business cards, next is to ensure that they feel they are being taken care of. A customer service that answers their calls rather than an answering machine that most people hang up on is the only way to handle this aspect of your business. Make sure you don’t lose that important sales call. Search the net and the options are inﬁnite. It is certainly cheaper than employing anyone and by far the best way to avoid any contractual issues, in particular in Spain, which can cost you a bob or two should things not work out. Wey hey! So far you’ve only spent around €150 for all the above. Amazing. That’s what I call a lean start-up. You really should keep your cash for marketing and development. Now, there may be one last thing you are thinking about: What if I need to speak directly with my clients? Skype is practically a household name these days but if you want

something a little more powerful with group meetings, try Uber Conference. I have to say after trying it I prefer it to Skype. To complete your virtual office you may just want to create some online presentations. Once again you’ll find a myriad of offers among which are Prezi, SlideShare, SlideRocket, Knovio and Genial. ly (yes it is an odd domain name). I have only just started using this service and find it a refreshing approach to online presentation tools. What are you waiting for then? You can live your dream, start that company you’ve always wanted to at a fraction of the cost and keep track of all the things that matter most in a business: your clients, invoices, payments, communication and presentation.

g Ali Parandeh, is the Founder of PC Doctor & Urbytus. He has written ﬁve books in the ﬁelds of Internet and Biotechnology. He is currently an independent mentor at the Founder Institute and helps entrepreneurs with getting their ideas and work off the ground. parandeh@urbytus.com

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THE TREND motoring

M 570 CL SS A PO R RT S C EN OU PÉ If you think that the stunning new 2016 McLaren 570S has a feline, predatory look about it you’d be very close to the mark because Chief Designer Rob Melville says he gets his inspiration from the animal kingdom. The new car’s sinewy lines are even more pronounced than in the McLaren road cars that went before and the overall result is ‘head-turning’ to say the very least. WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MCLAREN

his latest sports coupé from the legendary British race car builder has another major attribute. It’s surprisingly inexpensive for its class, a class that includes some of the world’s ﬁnest sports cars. At an expected €170.000, it will be close in price to the high-end Porsche 911s and outstanding as those cars may be, the McLaren 570S is truly something very special. And there’s another reason to delay any upscale sports car purchase until the new McLarens arrive towards the end of the year because an even less expensive variant is planned. McLaren believes that entering a more affordable market slot will more than double overall vehicle production before the end of the decade. Relatively speaking, this may be a bargain-priced exotic, but not too much seems to have been held back either mechanically or from a styling and cockpit

ambiance standpoint. The one I tried on for size was superbly put together and there’s even more excitement under the skin. The bodywork is based on a carbon ﬁbre structure and most of the panels are produced in aluminum. McLaren has continued the use of what it calls ‘dihedral doors’ which swing upwards when opened. It’s easier to get in and out of the car than might seem to be the case at ﬁrst glance and, in fact, it can be parked in quite a narrow space. Although I’m taller than average, I found it easy enough to thread myself into the driver’s seat and once strapped in, it’s a very comfortable car to sit in. Visibility is also better than might be expected. Some exotic sports cars fall short in this respect. Incidentally, McLaren is claiming best-in-class luggage capacity for this car, so it will be the perfect set of wheels for long weekends away as long as you don’t play golf!

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Z ENGINE: 3.8-litre twin turbo V-8 562-horsepower.

Z TRANSMISSION: Seven speed SSG.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 3.2-seconds.

Z TOP SPEED: 328 km/h. Z I LIKED: Great to get a McLaren

Power comes from a 3.8-litre twinturbocharged V-8 that develops an impressive 562-horsepower and an appropriate amount of torque. I was surprised to discover that the engine is completely built by McLaren, a signiﬁcant feat by a low-volume manufacturer. As is common in this class of car, the engine is located amidships and thus helps the engineering team to achieve optimal weight distribution. The potent motor is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission which uses a row of buttons on the central console to select shift modes. There’s no ‘shift lever’ at all and everything looks very neat, tidy and high-tech. McLaren took a lot of trouble over the car’s suspension, as might be expected from a company that’s been building winning race cars for many decades. The aim was to incorporate a suspension that would deliver complete driver engagement and a high level of reﬁnement on either road or track. Supple suspension is aided by Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres, probably the best choice possible for a car like this. Another key design focus was the brakes, which

use carbon-ceramic rotors. When you’re behind the wheel of a car capable of topping 100 km/h in 3.2-seconds and touching 328 km/h, it’s reassuring to be able to stop it quickly! The beautifully-trimmed interior is a wonderful place to operate from and the instrument and control layout is best described as minimalist, which helps reduce driver workload. Most of the gauges are electronic and it’s easy to check all the major ones with just a glance. If you buy a basic 570S, don’t look for much carbon ﬁbre trim, but as it happens, McLaren offers a very tempting array of upgrades in this material inside and out. As far as luxury kit goes, the car is well supplied with convenience goodies of all kinds and you can even specify a 12-speaker audio system if the wonderful engine note isn’t all the music you need.

It’s great news that McLaren is broadening its scope and entering a lower-priced market slot. In the past, the cars have been a rare sight in most countries but with the addition of the 570S and it’s less expensive stablemate, we should be seeing a lot more of them around in the years ahead. It’s no easy matter for a small car manufacturer to take on the volume makers, so full marks to McLaren for its very progressive attitude. Things may not be going too well for the eponymous Formula One team right now (watch for that to change) but as far as road cars go, the future looks very bright indeed for McLaren.

at what is, for many exotic car buyers, a very affordable price. Superlative styling with all the attributes expected in this class combined with impressive levels of power and handling. Outstanding interior and seemingly just as appealing as any upscale sports car at twice the price or even more. Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Very little to criticise here. If the production cars sell well and offer good durability, this car could carve a major niche for itself. Hopefully, there will be no teething problems when they start hitting the streets. Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Porsche 911 Turbo S, Audi R8, Mercedes SLS AMG. Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Lovers of high-end exotics who were never quite able to afford them. Porsche Turbo buyers who want something with a lot more character and even better performance. Buyers who have bought Ferraris and Lamborghinis in the past but for whatever reason, don’t want to spend that kind of money any more.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available later in 2015 at around €170.000.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2015 / 53

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JETCIRCLE

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5/25/15 3:03 PM

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JOURNEYS

5/25/15 3:04 PM

CULTURE / HISTORY / FEATURES

focus FAMOUS PEOPLE / INTERVIEWS / HUMOUR

We turn our eye to what makes life so magical in the summer on the Coast, with articles on dynamic Sotogrande and new dining haven, Calle Tetuán in the centre of Marbella. We also glean fascinating insight from Engel & Völkers’ Smadar Kahana and look into the eye of the tiger with national kickboxing Champ, Victoria Lomax.

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Sotogrande

Calle Tetuán

Clé de Cartier

Alejandro Sanz

Smadar Kahana

Victoria Lomax

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THE FOCUS sotogrande

For polo in August it’s cooler than the mint with the hole! Now Santa María Polo Club is upping the ante by €500m to turn the Sotogrande area of San Roque into the year-round Florida of Europe, as Belinda Beckett reports. PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID CUSSEN AND COURTESY OF SANTA MARÍA POLO CLUB

Santa María Polo Club, now planning a game changer for the Sotogrande area

“A

s announcements go in Sotogrande, nothing compares to the wind,” writes Joaquín Santaella in his 2014 book, Cartas de Sotogrande. “The wind here tells you everything. Daily activities, their outcome and even what to wear are all closely related to the wind.” Published by the former ABC Madrid journalist to mark the 50th anniversary of the San Roque resort he has called home for two decades, his words turn out to be more than prophetic. A wind of change equivalent to Hurricane Force 12 on the Beaufort Scale is blowing through Sotogrande right now.

It will be game-changing for Santaella’s “very strange environment, neither country, village, town... nor the cliché that you see on Spanish TV in August.” That ‘cliché’ is the prensa rosa’s perennial ﬁxation with Sotogrande’s world class polo – or rather, the royals, aristocrats and Who’s Who of TV personalities, movie stars and politicians who descend on Santa María Polo Club in August to enjoy their private boxes and VIP terraces, or to mingle in the white-tented pop-up shopping village and hobnob at the Grey Goose vodka bar, pursued by paparazzi. The big attraction is the International

Land Rover Summer Tournament, now in its 44th year (July 28-August 29). For one month only, Sotogrande becomes a photo opportunity for TV chat channels and revistas del corazón like ¡Hola! magazine. That’s the problem. The social glitterati vanish like May flies after the presentation of the Bronze, Silver and Gold Cups, even though Santa María hosts more than 25 tournaments throughout the year, including a major medium-handicap event in June and July which attracts top players from Europe.

More than a one-month stand!

SOTOGRANDE

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Polo plays to a packed house in August

Polo world number one, Adolfo Cambiaso of team Valiente who will be back to defend their Gold Cup title this summer

However this year, when the summer season ends on September 15, construction gangs will move in to kick-start an ambitious €200m project aimed at turning the Sotogrande area into a year-round tourism destination. Santa María Polo Club’s ground-breaking plans include a 200-room, five-star hotel with polo pitch views, a club house, riverside park, business centre, spa and health club, shops, restaurants, offices, green areas and a 290,000m2 development of apartments and premium villas – all with new access from the A-7. That’s just the first phase, approved by the Junta this year, although plans have been on the back burner for over a decade. The other half of this macro project – so vast, it requires a change to the General Plan of San Roque – envisages the creation of a €300m Equine District for horsey sports, and an extension to Sotogrande Marina to add swanky apartments with yacht moorings, converting the resort into the ‘Florida of Europe’. In its entirety, the project will see the transformation of an area the size of 70 football pitches (500,000m2) between the marina and the village of Guadiaro, focused on Los Pinos polo grounds. The job has been awarded

to the Florida-based architectural giant EDSA, the designers of the Dubai Opera House and PepsiCo’s World HQ in New York. It’s extraordinarily good timing for Sotogrande LuxCo, an alliance of two private equity firms who bought the resort from NH Hotel Group for €225m last November. Sotogrande S.A. has struggled to turn a profit in years past so the Santa María Polo Club project should see a dramatic change in the resort’s fortunes. Although the ‘old guard’ still talk fondly of the early days, when the resort was the best-kept secret of the privileged few (like the Domecq sherry and Ford car families), it’s exciting news for those whose livelihoods depend on tourism. What will Sotogrande become? It’s the talk of the port, the gossip at Café Ke and the whisper passed between stall holders under candy-striped awnings at the marina’s hippy-chic Sunday market. They scent money – and they’re not wrong. After the Cepsa petrochemical refinery, leafy green Sotogrande is San Roque’s principal economic driver. According to Mayor Juan Carlos Ruiz Boix, it generates “two or three jobs per household” in one of the most depressed areas of Spain: the Campo de Gibraltar, where 35 per cent unemployment is the average. “We want to reconcile both worlds with affluent tourism but not mass tourism,” says the Mayor. A comarca (county) of seven Spanish towns running from Tarifa

to the Cádiz/Málaga provincial border, the Campo de Gibraltar was recently voted second Best Golf Destination in Europe in an Avios Airmiles Value Tracker poll, behind Palma de Mallorca – largely thanks to Sotogrande which boasts ﬁve of southern Spain’s top golf courses, including Valderrama of Ryder Cup and Volvo Masters fame. Now it will gain a lot more kudos. “We are going to turn polo into a great experience with quality content, and we have the unanimous support of the Town Councils of San Roque, Jimena and Casares, among others,” announced Santa María Polo Club’s new Director General, Óscar Nieto, this spring. “We want to create a sustainable model centered on horses but that goes beyond polo and turns the Sotogrande area into something similar to a European version of the district of Wellington, Palm Beach.” Wellington, south Florida, was a swampy backwater famous only for being the world’s largest strawberry ﬁeld until it was transformed into an international jetset playground in the 1990s. Today it hosts a major Winter Equestrian Festival and more than 40 weeks of horse-based competitions throughout the year. Celebrities with the clout of Bill Gates, Madonna and Bruce Springsteen own pads there, as well as hunky Argentinean polo player and Ralph Lauren model, Nacho Figueras.

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Aerial view of the polo shopping village

“The planning approval is great news for us and for all of the Guadiaro region,” says Nieto, a marketing whizz headhunted from El Corte Inglés to get the project underway. He believes that what horses did for a Florida swamp they can do in cavalry-strength for an already well-known equine destination where sultans, Spanish royals and Princes Charles, Andrew, William and Harry have thrashed a mallet around on horseback. As well as 16 polo ﬁelds, the area has a top-rated equestrian centre which hosts champion show jumping, dressage, gymkhanas and teaching clinics held by Olympic riders. “One of the problems with polo has been the seasonal nature of tourism in this area,” Nieto explains. “Almost all the activities take place in August which I ﬁnd a little surprising. June, and especially July, are months where a lot of ideas could be put into practice and at the moment there is a very small amount of activity over that period. We aim to change that gradually. “We have already taken some steps to show off all of our fantastic resources, for example winter training for European football teams. However the Equine District is the big project. We are working

so that the area doesn’t only have tourism linked to golf or the beach. It is also possible to create a focal point for wealth, employment and development around equine activities.” More than half a century ago, Sotogrande’s founders had the same idea. The multi-millionaire American businessman Joseph McMicking and his nephews Jaime and Enrique had the Florida model in mind in 1962 when they bought ﬁve ﬁncas to create the ultimate family sports resort, with polo at its heart. Although McMicking hoped the resort would “mature like a good Camembert”, over time, the plans now afoot will certainly speed up the fermentation process! It’s hard to believe that, until the 1997 Ryder Cup, the resort wasn’t even on the map. There was no dual carriageway to Sotogrande, nor any road signs pointing to it, and residents had to draw diagrams for visiting friends! That’s because it’s an urbanisation, although it’s the largest and most exclusive privately-owned residential development in the Cádiz Province. Wedged between Gibraltar and the foothills of the Sierra Almenara and sliced into two halves

(Alto and Costa) by the A-7, it lies within the municipality of San Roque, and in many ways it’s much better appointed, with classy hotels and its own International School. Well-considered planning has created an urban area of startling natural beauty, surrounded by cork forests, a nature reserve and 350 holes of golf. Along avenues dual carriageway-wide, their central reservations blooming with pink and yellow oleander, magniﬁcent mansions peep from between lush conifers and sprinklers swish seductively over manicured lawns. Other attractions include a Raquets Centre for paddle, pelota and tennis where a hallowed Wimbledon atmosphere prevails; two swanky beach clubs – the Octógano and the Trocadero (formerly El Cucurucho, opened by Frank Sinatra, with a 7,000-metre sunbathing lawn running down to the ocean); a sailing club for die hards who prefer wind power to turning a key in a polished walnut dashboard; not forgetting the multi-coloured marina, its trendy boutiques and bars pulling in what sometimes seems to be the only signs of human life during the quieter months.

Chic Puerto Sotogrande

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Sotogrande boasts ﬁve of Spain’s top golf courses

From the last week in July to the end of August, the population soars. Last year’s 43rd International Land Rover Polo Tournament brought 32 teams of riders from 20 countries to do battle in 152 matches over 36 competition days, watched by 77,000 spectators. Over 400 media representatives gave the event 1,055 minutes of TV time and millions of press cuttings. Europe’s third most important polo fixture, worth even more points on the World Tour this year, is an open invitation to watch the world’s top equestrian gladiators displaying their Apocalyptic skills in four-horsemen teams on fields triple the size of a soccer pitch: cool Germanic blondes, red-hot Argentineans, smooth, snake-hipped Frenchmen – take your pick, most of them under 40, 100 per cent fit and drawn from polo’s elite, such as world number one Adolfo Cambiaso who will return this summer. The high-adrenalin contest is a gripping spectacle. As Nacho Figueras describes it, “It’s like playing golf in a hurricane.” Yet, although everyone you know owns a polo shirt or six, many locals have yet to see a live chukka, even though it’s free to watch on all but Bronze, Silver and Gold Cup finals days. Even then, the €10 entry ticket (payable as you go in) goes to a good cause, providing riding therapy for the disabled at Santa María Polo

Tony Blair, ex-Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson or the ex-husband of the King of Spain’s sister, Jaime de Marichalar, you weren’t wrong. The megayacht moored off the coast last summer (the one bristling with more antennae than a Royal Naval frigate), belonged to James Packer, polo sponsor, casino magnate and son of the late Aussie media mogul, Kerry. This year there will be many more attractions, including a much-enlarged Kids Zone and a Gourmet Food Truck Experience – a new trend in Spain – with 16 trucks offering different foods to try from 6pm until 1am daily. “In our new Zone A, between pitches II and III, we want to promote the ‘casual dinner’ approach with ideas that turn the After Polo area into a mid-afternoon meeting point, during and after matches and to attract people on days when there are no matches at Los Pinos,” explains Óscar Nieto. “Zone B will have the restaurant, VIP Corporate Lounge, the Pavilion shops with exhibition space for Land Rover and Bvlgari, art exhibitions and our

beauty styling salon, which was one of the major successes last year. There will be a lot of changes and we are excited about surprising visitors this year.” Across the A-7, another surprise is the reopening of the San Roque casino, closed since 2010. Europe’s largest gaming group, Novomatic, is additionally wagering €5 million on adding a leisure centre, cinema, nightclub, spa and 50-room hotel. The group recently opened a casino at Ocean Village, Gibraltar. With so much going on this summer and beyond, Sotogrande will soon be unrecognisable from Joaquín Santaella’s “strange colony” where there’s “nothing else to do all year except play golf or bridge”. It looks like he’ll have to write a sequel! g For further information, see the Agenda pages at www.santamariapoloclub.com where you can download a handy app with details of ﬁxtures and results, shopping village events, restaurants, children’s activities, parties, etc.

Foundation’s Hippotherapy Center. Even if you’re not a sports sort, there’s always the après polo – boutique shopping, cocktail bars, ﬁne and casual dining and top DJs spinning cool sounds at parties where the mojitos flow into la madrugada. Providing you can focus after all that indulgence, it’s fun to play spot the celebrity. If you thought you recognised ex-British premier Valiente, winners of 2014’s high-goal Bulgari Gold Cup

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Cherry nice gazpacho at La Terraza de Teo

GOURMET SOTOGRANDE

The Molino del Condé has a mouth-watering menu

Where big beefy Argentinean polo players go, Argentinean steak restaurants are sure to follow but the dining scene’s about more than char-grilled rib eye, writes Belinda Beckett.

he British may have invented the bar crawl but the Spanish perfected it with their rutas de tapas. And appropriately, in polo’s most southerly European home, you’ll be exhausted before you run out of gastrobars to wine and dine on the hoof. Tiptoeing through the tapicerías is the new sport for gastronomes and Sotogrande and its neighbouring villages are great places to try out the trend, although you’ll need wheels to do them all. Most people head straight for the port, with its array of elegant waterfront restaurants, so if you blink you might miss Torreguadiaro, the village you drive through on the old road to the marina from Marbella. But at weekends, you can’t fail to notice the large crowd gathered on the pavement on your driving side, queuing up for tables at Puratapa and Inboca. These two hip gastro bars sit cheek by jowl on the kerbside so you don’t need to take more than a step to try both, and it’s worth that small effort. They’re both state-of-the-tapas-art! Puratapa is distinguished by its sleek white terrace furniture and multitude of mouth-watering options chalked up in rainbow colours on blackboards inside.

Their deep-fried filo pastry cheese parcels are divine and their tuna ceviche won an award in 2012. Inboca (pine tables, retro stools) presents you with a typed menu at the table. The ajo blanco soup and trufflefilled ravioli are very worthy of mention and don’t leave without sampling the gooey chocolate brownie, served in what looks fishily like a sardine tin but it’s a taste sensation! You can find both these gastro bars on Facebook. Beyond the port towards San Roque, cross the bridge over the river and turn off into Pueblo Nuevo, Guadiaro village’s modern extension, fronting the A-7. The new Iceland supermarket, packed with British goodies, has put the village on the map. At the English butcher’s next door you can find British cuts, including pork chops with the rind still on, as well as plump home-made sausages and spicy burgers. But there’s more… Heading to the back of Pueblo Nuevo into Guadiaro, follow the river along a shady tree-lined avenue to the Molino del Condé for another gastro adventure. The menu offers entrée-sized portions as well as tapas treats. Rice dishes (prepared 30 different ways) and seafood are house specialities. But do try the white chocolate pyramid filled with fruits of the forest! For al fresco diners there are terraces front and back. Sister restaurant La Cabaña de Sotogrande (behind the NH Hotel)

occupies the charming old Cortijo Valderrama, where Sotogrande’s founder Joe McMicking lived when he was planning the resort. He would be proud to see that the farmhouse and stunning gardens are a favourite summer evening dining haunt today. La Cabaña is number two on Trip Advisor, where it gets high praise for its roast meat and game, including the Iberian sucking pig and wild boar. i www.grupomolinodelconde.es Leaving Guadiaro on the back road towards San Roque, you’ll chance upon another tapas treasure, La Terraza de Teo, spacious and Spanish in style with a tiny terrace outside. Half the tables are laid with cloths for three-course menu service, the rest are dressed more casually for tapas. The Parmesansprinkled cherry gazpacho and the mi-cuit duck liver with caramelised fruits leave me speechless with ecstasy every time! i http://www.laterrazadeteo.com

Deep-fried divinity at Puratapa

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Beach club dining at Trocadero Sotogrande

Polo Etiquette

Tío Pepe served with a flourish

TripAdvisor lists 42 restaurants in Sotogrande and its two closest neighbouring villages (San Roque has eight in all). At the top of that list is Cancha II in San Enrique de Guadiaro, overlooking Ayala polo grounds. With its pitched beamed roof and polished woodwork, the restaurant is cosy in winter and cool in summer when the glass curtains are drawn back. This is where you’ll find those beefy polo players, tucking into Argentinean T-bones and rib-eyes. It’s a place to dress up and be seen in summer, though you probably won’t get a look-in in August, unless you book. i www.asadorcancha2.com Jockeying for pole position at number three on TripAdvsior’s Sotogrande selection, Si Siam in Guadiaro introduces a breath of oriental fresh air to the dining scene. Behind its unprepossessing walled exterior is a relaxing secret garden, overlooked by a contemplative Buddha statue – the perfect setting to sample the fragrant Thai cuisine. For an alternative take on Thai, La Finca (just off the entrance to Alcaidesa Resort & Golf Club, the only links course in southern Spain) amazes with its funky decor and woodland setting. Thai fusion is the speciality and it also caters for groups and events. i www.lafinca.com San Roque has been a gastro paradise since the Romans started manufacturing garum, a relish made from fermented fish that was all the rage in Rome. They produced it in Carteia, one of Spain’s most important archaeological sites – a surreal juxtaposition of doric columns and petrochemical

chimneys since General Franco built the Cepsa refinery next door... Net-caught (almadraba) tuna was another big export from Carteia, the first colony outside Italy to be given Roman Empire status, and most of the area’s tapas bars feature it in inventive ways. Or go Japanese – they buy it from our waters anyway – at the San Roque Club’s Kamakura. Opened in 1997 to capitalise on the Ryder Cup, you can try the full range – sushi, maki, sashimi and teppanyaki – at a traditional table, or in the Tatami Room, sitting on floor cushions (the cheat is, there’s a well underneath the table for your legs to make it more cushy for Westerners). i www.sanroqueclub.com I’m also hearing good reports of Pueblo Nuevo’s Japanese restaurant Tengoku (see Facebook or TripAdvisor). No Sotogrande restaurant review would be complete without mentioning El Gaucho, established in 1985, which serves up premium steaks of the highest quality from an authentic Argentinean grill, at Galerías Paniagua, or the resort’s very first beach club (formerly El Cucurucho) taken over by Marbella’s respected Trocadero Group last summer. Trocadero Sotogrande has a wonderful ambience, day or night, and you can get almadraba tuna here too, along with fresh local meats and fish. The lighter daytime menu offers refreshing appetisers, salads and rice dishes. Dine under thatched pergolas poolside, fronting lawns running down to the ocean, or in the African colonial indoor restaurant. You won’t want to leave, and you don’t have to, as restaurant guests can enjoy the beach club’s amenities all day. i www.grupotrocadero.com

There’s an art to not making a horse’s a** of yourself – and not only the ability to tell one end of a polo pony from the other after a pitcher of Pimms… The Sotogrande set can put it away. Getting ‘Tiddly-poo’ is acceptable but ‘legless’, neigh, neigh and thrice neigh. Having to be carried out comatose? Social suicide! A chukka is a period of play in a match, not what you do after too many mojitos. There’s a three-minute break between each chukka, for players to change ponies and spectators to recharge glasses. Polite clapping between chukkas is encouraged. Chanting and screaming is not. When in Sotogrande, speak sotto voce: a simple ‘bravo’ at normal decibel level works best. The dress code is boho chic. You want to create the impression you’ve come straight from the beach, although it takes hours of meticulous grooming to achieve this studied casual look. For ladies, anything goes so long as it’s classy, accessorised with aviator shades and gladiator sandals/wedges. Killer heels are a no-no on the hallowed turf. Anyway, in stilettos you’d be rooted to the spot like a pegged tent. For men, what else but a polo shirt! Well, trousers of course. Chinos in raspberry tones are very ‘in’ this season. Or shorts, if you’ve the legs for them, worn with loafers (but never socks). For both sexes, a Panama hat is de rigeur, worn at a rakish angle à la Johnny Depp. You can buy the real thing at the polo shopping village. Complete your look with a cute dog. Yes, you can bring Fido (providing he’s on a leash), the horsey set love animals. e

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THE FOCUS gastronomy

CALLE

TETUÁN

Marbella’s New Gastronomic Hub With a range of good quality eateries serving a wide variety of cuisines and experiences, Marbella is increasingly known as a ﬁne dining destination in its own right. However, within Marbella, the area of Calle Tetuán in the Old Town is taking shape as the new epicentre of gastronomy in this region. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

trolling through Marbella’s Old Town is a pleasure in itself. The avenues are ﬁne, especially when you chance upon a shaded little square between Ricardo Soriano and the beach, but entering the Casco Antiguo is like stepping into a peaceful realm where the noise of trafﬁc recedes and everything is reduced to a human scale. With cars banned in most of it, you don’t have to look around you but can wander at leisure, crossing squares and following your nose through the labyrinth of pretty pedestrian streets without a care in the world. Soothing by day, this charming part of Marbella takes on a different hue as the days and seasons progress, changing in ambience along with it. Just the place to catch the seasonal bug at Christmas, it has a haunting appeal in the rain and a languid ambience to it in the sun. Mornings are fresh, the daytime a little more businesslike and dusk simply a magical time to be here. As the sun begins to set, you drink in a rich atmosphere

blended with the fragrance of lemon blossom and bougainvillea, and even summer nights ﬁlled with well-intentioned tourists trampling through these streets remain balmy and evocative. And why not? These walls have seen the passing of the ages, witnessed the revolving door of civilisations and other life-changing events that put even the greatest onslaught of tourists to shame. At any rate, these are friendly marauders looking for nothing more than a good spot to eat, drink and be merry. Fortunately, Marbella’s Old Town is just the place for this, and in addition to its quaint architecture and rich ambience it is also becoming the gastronomic heart of the town. So turn right as you enter from the main Ricardo Soriano avenue and you will come upon Calle Tetuán. Home to some of the best restaurants in town, Calle Tetuán and the adjacent square (Plaza Practicante Manuel Cantos) offer a great choice of dining options in a wonderful setting full of

atmosphere. In retail related industries this kind of clustering in one spot is highly popular, for it creates a destination – in this case a gastronomic haven – that provides a great degree of freedom of choice. You can simply wander around the charming streets and square of this area and make up your mind on the spot without having to spend too much time thinking about it beforehand – and if one restaurant is full you simply choose another. The great thing about Calle Tetuán is that you can park your car nearby and enjoy the stroll safe in the knowledge that the standard is consistently high and you are assured a great night out both in terms of the food and the experience itself. What’s more, the young chef-restaurant owners that have set up here add a sense of excitement and edge with their passionately conceived and personally run restaurants. You will ﬁnd no impersonal chains, but rather real eateries where food is celebrated and the diner coveted – and long may it stay so!

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IL TARTUFO This ‘young’ Italian restaurant was one of the first to start the trend when it created a small and intimate setting in which to enjoy the best of Italy. Located at the point where Calle Tetuán meets the square, Il Tartufo naturally spills out of its charming interior dining room to offer an atmospheric al fresco dining experience in one of the most romantic settings in Marbella. Scottish-born Holly Shaw is the friendly face front of house while her husband Emanuele Crisci is the passionate chef who conjures up beautiful modern and classic Italian dishes. With a true dedication to fine, fresh produce – and in particular the noble truffle – he does his country’s cuisine proud with creations that come straight from the heart. No request is too much at this informal but excellent restaurant where the young restaurateurs and their team have seen a very happening culinary scene evolve around them. “We all get on well together and find that we complement one another well,” says Holly about the creative dynamic that has made this an up-and-coming dining spot par excellence. i www.iltartufo-ristorante.com

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MOMO MARBELLA One of the other restaurants that has helped to build this reputation is Momo Marbella. Also founded by a young couple, it has made some waves, building up a loyal following and spawning two more restaurants – one just along Calle Tetuán on the far side of the charming little square. José María and Katrin originally had their heart set on a neighbouring venue, but are now happy that fate led them to create their richly atmospheric restaurant in its current location. Featuring a rustic bistro décor, Momo Marbella offers an international cuisine built around a Nikkei base. This combination, coupled with the creativity of an inspired Argentineanborn chef and a highly charming restaurant manager, has made Momo one of the pillars upon which Calle Tetuán’s new fame as a dining destination is built. “In the time we have been here we have seen this area transformed into one that has an exciting energy about it,” says Katrin. “I think this comes from the fact that we are all young, independent restaurant owners whose businesses are chef and food-driven, with a clear, personal focus on the diner. As long as it stays this way and we avoid the kind of establishments that focus on numbers and/or a ﬁxed formula, this area will only become more and more special.” i www.momomarbella.es

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Las Brisas Stunning 6 Bedroom Villa

Completely reconstructed in a prime location in Las Brisas, Nueva Andalucía, this luxurious 6 bedroom, 5-bathroom villa offers the latest style, comfort, luxury and amenities, all designed around the very best modern lifestyle that Marbella can offer. From its superb location, the property enjoys open views of Las Brisas golf course, La Concha Mountain and the Mediterranean Sea.

The villa offers sophisticated living in a panoramic setting, with a wide choice of spots to relax indoors and out.

www.nordicamarbella.com

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

2,890,000 € Las Brisas, Nueva Andalucia  Ref: V6146  Built: 200 m2

 Bedrooms: 6

 Bathrooms: 5

 Terrace: 280 m2  Plot: 1683 m2

sales@nordicamarbella.com



Tel: 952 811 552

23/07/15 18:55

TEMPORA Andrés Perdiguero, the founder of Tempora, completes the trilogy of restaurateurs that have transformed this part of Marbella and made it a spot well worth travelling to. Situated between Il Tartufo and Momo Marbella, he too has a young team around him whose enthusiasm and creativity is matched only by their skill. Not surprisingly, you will ﬁnd that the quality and freshness of the ingredients used is at the heart of the delicacies that leave the kitchen of talented young Peruvian chef Aldo Espinosa. The cuisine represented is Mediterranean, which allows for a great deal of creative space that is used with true panache. These three eateries live very well together, forming the heart of a Calle Tetuán experience lovers of food and dining should not deny themselves. The modern Mediterranean creations of Tempora complement the Italian inspiration of Il Tartufo and the international cuisine of Momo Marbella, and have in common with them an origin in an unrelenting, passionate drive for excellence in all aspects of the art of dining, but above all in the sensory pleasures offered by some of the ﬁnest food available in Marbella. i www.temporarestaurant.com

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LIMA Opened just under a year ago, Lima is in a way the product of the success of Momo Marbella – and Calle Tetuán in itself. It is the second venture of José María and Katrin, and while different to Momo in décor and gastronomic offering, follows their concept of service and personal attention. This also applies to the food; Lima exudes a refined, contemporary ambience yet the dishes are created with the same enthusiasm that also drives Momo Marbella. Situated on the far side of the same square, Lima by Momo offers a slightly different dining experience than the three highly intimate eateries that first created the buzz around Calle Tetuán, yet it is an exciting new evolution of the process they have set in motion, and one that sits very nicely alongside the elegant Town House boutique hotel, which benefits greatly from having all these wonderful eateries on its doorstep. “As the Town House is set a little off the square it has retained its privacy, but the kind of clientele it draws just loves good food in an authentic ambience,” says Katrin. i www.limamarbella.com

A GOURMET DESTINATION

Add the Argentinean fare of Buenos Aires, Stuzzikini up a little side street and an Irish bar a little further along the square, and this really has become an atmospheric hub for dining in Marbella that is highly popular yet retains an intimate ambience. “We have seen it evolve before our very eyes,” says Holly Shaw. “When we opened Il Tartufo there were mostly long-established traditional eateries of the kind you happily still ﬁnd across Marbella and the Old Town, and their owners were very welcoming.” A churrería and a classic coffee and pastry shop still maintain part of that tradition, beneﬁtting also from the inflow of local and international diners, and now it is Holly and Manu who are welcoming new people to the area. “We do so with pleasure, as good, innovative restaurants and for that matter other businesses in and around Calle Tetuán can only make it even better and more appealing for diners and visitors.” Indeed, what they and the other young restaurateurs have set in motion with their creativity and vision is a process that needs to live and breathe – creating a gourmet destination within Marbella that is evolving, exciting and capable of delighting us with new experiences. e

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“ Wh e n yo u are s er i o u s ab ou t R eal Es tate”

Unmatched and Fabulous, a very private Mansion in the northern part of Guadalmina! This spectacular property is designed as a Roman Palace set on 20.000 sqm of south west facing flat land in an excellent location. The estate features a spectacular, specially designed saltwater swimming pool, a floodlit tennis court, horse stables with paddock, a pond for swans and a friendly crocodile. The indoor hotel size spa has a gym, Turkish bath, sauna, cold splash pool, jacuzzi, swimming pool and a relax and massage area. All installations are top of the range which is very suitable for this extraordinary mansion. Ref. R734320 Built: 2.324 m2

Bedrooms: 6

Bathrooms: 6

Plot: 20.100 m2

Price: 12.750.000 €

marbella-estates.com • Tel. +34 952 90 42 44 • info@marbella-estates.com 192 Marbella Estates.indd 1

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EXQUISITE VILLA IN LOS FLAMINGOS BENAHAVIS

5 Bedrooms

•

5 bathrooms

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Built 1,040m2

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Pl o t 2,590m 2

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Re f. 258- 00 1 7 4 P

€5,500,000

If you are looking for an exquisite villa in a superb tranquil location with stunning views, this is the property for you. The south-facing villa, built to the highest standards, has sea views from every one of its five bedrooms. Its beautifully proportioned living room features a double height ceiling and for entertaining there is a large dining room, cinema, bar and games room. If that is not enough there is a wine cellar, study, three kitchens, garage for five cars, under floor heating and air conditioning. An incredible garden with a variety of fruit trees and a separate apartment are just two more of the features which make this property unique.

FM Properties Realty Group, C.C. Centro Plaza • 1 planta, # 12-14 • 29660 Nueva Andalucia, Marbella Tel. +34 952 810 000

•

info@fm-properties.com

w w w. fm-p rop er t ies. com

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Affordable Luxury Apartments with Resort Services

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Now is the perfect time to buy your home in Cortijo del Mar. Don’t delay, contact our sales office now before you miss out. Ask about our rental programme, which is ideal for both investors and private owners.

We’re waiting for you…

Offering the Best Since 1990 - 2015 25 years in the market...

Sales office tel: (+34) 952 90 40 35 • mob: (+34) 605 900 905 • Ctra. N-340 Málaga-Cádiz Km. 168 (salida C.C. Diana) • Calle Alquería 1, 29680 Estepona • FM Consulting office tel: (+34) 952 810 000 info@cortijodelmar.com • GPS: Longitud: +36º 28´9.86” - Latitud: -5º1´15.94”

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THE FOCUS cartier

CLÉ DE

CARTIER

Reinventing the Crown 78 / AUGUST 2015 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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The Clé (‘Key’) watch has taken Cartier’s fame for creating beautiful crowns to the maximum, with a series of unisex watches in three different sizes: 31, 35 and 40mm. The new crown houses an ingeniously designed ﬂush sapphire that is elongated, elegant and easy to handle. A variety of materials make this watch the perfect accessory for the man or woman who has everything… except a Clé!

1 – Clé de Cartier in rose gold and diamonds 2 – Clé de Cartier in white gold and diamonds 3 – Clé de Cartier in white gold and diamonds 4 – Clé de Cartier in white gold 5 – Clé de Cartier in Pink gold with a brown leather strap i www.cartier.com

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Las Brisas - Spacious family villa located front line golf on one of the best golf courses on the coast. Built 516m2. Plot 1.283m2. Ref: 12228

La Zagaleta - Exquisite Andalusian villa with terracotta floors and ample rooms. Nice views towards the sea. Built: 432m2. Plot: 3.572m2. Ref: 17271

Puerto Banús – Best sea views on the coast. Guadalmina Baja – Beautiful, ample frontline golf Sierra Blanca – Charming and unique decorated 3 Bedrooms. 2 Bathrooms. Ref: 11187 townhouse. 3 Bedrooms. 3 Bathrooms. Ref: 16993 villa Build 439m2. Plot 1.046m2. Ref: 16559

P U E R TO B A N U S O F F I C E

Paseo B enabola, Blq. 6, Local C 29660 Pue r to Banús M ar bella (M álaga) Tel: (+34) 952 81 27 28 M obile: (+34) 607 55 50 45 puer tobanus@reluz.com

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G UA D A L M I N A O F F I C E

www.reluz.com

C.C. Guadalmina 4, Local 13 29670 San Pedro de Alcantara M ar bella (M álaga) Tel: (+34) 952 88 04 03 M obile: (+34) 607 55 50 45 guadalmina@reluz.com

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Benahavís - Recently built contemporary style villa with open views towards the golf and Mediterranean Sea. Built 775m2. Plot 1.484m2. Ref: 16563

Beach Front - Imposing front line beach penthouse offering the best views to the sea and Gibraltar. Built: 185m2. Terrace: 205m2. Ref: 15053

Los Arqueros– Beautiful apartment front line golf Los Flamingos – 3rd floor apartment with panoramic Benahavís – Sunny villa with beautiful sea views. views. 2 Bedrooms. 2 Bathrooms. Ref: 10748 Build 365m2. Plot 715m2. Ref: 12231 course. 3 Bedrooms. 2 Bathrooms. Ref: 08730

P U E R TO B A N U S O F F I C E

Paseo B enabola, Blq. 6, Local C 29660 Pue r to Banús M ar bella (M álaga) Tel: (+34) 952 81 27 28 M obile: (+34) 607 55 50 45 puer tobanus@reluz.com

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G UA D A L M I N A O F F I C E

www.reluz.com

C.C. Guadalmina 4, Local 13 29670 San Pedro de Alcantara M ar bella (M álaga) Tel: (+34) 952 88 04 03 M obile: (+34) 607 55 50 45 guadalmina@reluz.com

24/6/15 14:48

THE FOCUS people

hey saved the best for nearly last once again at Starlite, or so the millions of fans of composer and singer, Alejandro Sanz, are saying. He is arguably Spain’s most successful composer and performer, or at the very least, the most lauded: he boasts no less than 17 Grammy awards and has sold over 23 million copies of his albums, all 15 of which have received Platinum sales in Spain, Latin America and North America. Sanz is one of social media’s most hotly followed artists, with over 10 million Twitter fans tuning in every day to see what their favourite star is up to. He isn’t just known for his music, but also for his contributions to culture and charitable causes. The Spanish Ministry of Culture awarded him the Medal of Merit in the Arts and he has won an ASCAP Prize for his contribution to Latin American Music as well as a Vision Prize (granted by the White House) for his altruistic work. Sanz has visited devastated nations such as Zimbabwe, undergoing experiences he describes as “life changing… going there and seeing how happy the people are, despite what they are going through, makes it easy to forget little problems and worries which pale in comparison.” He is directly involved with a host of charity associations and foundations, including Doctors without Borders, Save the Children and Greenpeace. In 2011, he promoted one of the most important albums ever: Positive Generation, released to help Doctors without Borders battle child AIDS in Zimbabwe. In 2013, Sanz travelled alongside Greenpeace to witness the devastating effects of polar ice cap melting, and to demand the establishment of improved conservation programmes for the area. Alejandro Sanz has worked with some of the world’s most renowned artists, including Tony Bennett, with whom he sang a dreamy duet (I’ve Got You Under My Skin). He has

sung and recorded music alongside everyone from Alicia Keys to The Corrs, Joaquín Sabina and Laura Pausini (another highlight of this year’s Starlite event). This month, he is set to light up the Cantera de Nagüeles with hits old and new alike, including gems from his newly released album, Sirope (Syrup, a reference to the texture rather than the sweetness of this condiment). Sanz beams when describing Sirope, primarily because of all his albums, it is the work that “most represents who I am.” In past albums, he worked alongside a variety of technicians and artists, “each of whom changed my original vision in little ways.” With Sirope, Sanz sought to remain 100 per cent true to his original ideas. “I created the entire score for those songs – guitars, percussion, bass, guitar… it took eight long months of solitary work in a studio to make the album I had been dreaming of for so many years.” Sirope contains hits like the emotionally wrought Un Zombie A La Intemperie, the upbeat A Mí No Me Importa and the romantic Pero Tú. Despite being Sanz’s 15th album, it is surprisingly raw, fresh, full of soul soothing melodies, passionate lyrics and rhythms too beautiful to resist getting caught in. Sirope is doing excellently in the charts, as is to be expected of Sanz, who has always pulled out winners. His first taste of success came early: by the age of 23 he

was already a household name and poster boy for millions of teens across Spain, thanks to his first album, Viviendo Deprisa (Living Fast, 1991), the biggest selling album of the year. Two more hit albums followed: Si Tú Me Miras (1993) and Alejandro Sanz 3 (1995). Perhaps his best known work is Más (1997), containing arguably his best known and loved songs: Corazón Partío, Amiga Mía and Si Fuera Ella. After Más came El Alma Al Aire (2000), No Es Lo Mismo (2003), El Tren De Los Momentos (2006) and Paraíso Express (2009). To promote the latter, he played to packed audiences in Latin America, Spain and the United States, as part of his 2010 World Tour. In 2012, La Música No Se Toca achieved five-Platinum status in Spain, twoPlatinum in Mexico and Colombia, and one-Platinum in Venezuela and Argentina, and garnered Gold record sales in Chile and Central Ameríca. In all, the album achieved the highest sales in 2012 by a Spanish-speaking artist. Sanz is currently completing his Sirope tour in Spain, and in 2016, he will be visiting Latin America and the United States. Alejandro Sanz recently delighted audiences with his role as a judge in top-rated TV show, The Voice, a true treasure for fans seeking to know a little more of this sometimes reclusive composer. Sanz has always protected his privacy zealously, though lately, he

seems a little more open when he speaks about his wife and three children, who often inspire his most soulful tunes. If you have never listened to Alejandro Sanz and you’d like to know what the fuss is about, we recommend starting with Más. Search for it on iTunes and be taken on a beautiful melodic and lyrical journey that fully represents this artist’s immense sensitivity. What makes Alejandro Sanz so special for any Spaniard over 20 is a plethora of factors: his poetic lyrics, knockout musical arrangements and catchy melodies and rhythms. Sanz’s boyish appearance belies his age and indeed, for many, he is still that young singer who first made us swoon with Los Dos Cogidos De La Mano and other romantic tunes. Most fans who first played Más the month it was released will have very specific memories associated with songs like Corazón Partío or Amiga Mía (who hasn’t had a friend in love with the wrong guy, after all?). Sanz is best known for his original, captivating love songs, yet his range is wide enough to cover all human relationships, making him a bit of a flamenco/pop Shakespeare. He is particularly brilliant at singing flamenco and often gives audiences a tiny treat of his abilities in this most Spanish of arts. He may have been born in Moratalaz, yet his Southern Spanish accent reveals that his heart belongs to Cádiz (Alcalá de los Gazules, to be precise, where his mother was born and raised). Sanz often credits Paco de Lucía and Camarón de la Isla as being two of his greatest influences and inspirations, which just goes to show that although the singer often fluctuates between rap, pop and rock, flamenco is one of the arts through which he most brightly shines. Alejandro Sanz will be remembered for much more than being one of Spain’s biggest selling artists. His gentleness, modesty and humanity mean that for millions of people in the world, there will never be another like him.

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On August 20, Alejandro Sanz will give his heart and soul to the audience at the Starlite Festival. Marisa Cutillas reports on one of Spainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most enigmatic artists.

ALEJANDRO

SANZ

at the Starlite Festival 2015

i www.starlitemarbella.com

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THE FOCUS people

Having opened her first Engel & Völkers shop on the Golden Mile many years ago, Smadar Kahana’s expansion into Puerto Banús marks a successful trajectory that has seen this elegant and sophisticated lady become a dominant figure in Marbella’s luxury real estate segment.

Success in Luxury Real Estate

Smadar Kahana WORDS Michel cruz Photography Courtesy of Engel & Völkers

tepping into the main Marbella office of Engel & Völkers on the Golden Mile, I have the opportunity to meet up with Smadar Kahana again. Newly revamped, the office is not only sleek and modern but also reflects the sense of growth and dynamism that she has created, expanding from one to four shops in the space of just a few years. What’s more, she achieved this during an intense recession, but if you ask her about it she is inclined to say: “what recession?” The glint in her eye reveals that she knows very well what I’m talking about, yet Smadar has accomplished the enviable in that she has been selling luxury homes in Marbella at a steady rate since 2005. Add to this the fact that it is at an ascending rate and you can see why she has become such

a dominant force in the top end of the market. It is this growth that saw her expand from her original operation on the Golden Mile to owning the Engel & Völkers licenses in El Rosario and Elviria – and culminated in the recent acquisition of the important E&V shop in Puerto Banús. “It completes a process that allows me to cover the most important areas of Marbella, as the way we work is that every office is manned by people who are specialists in their specific areas and know the properties there inside out. Engel & Völkers offices work very well together, locally and internationally, but by bringing these four shops under a single organisational umbrella we can provide a totally seamless service within Marbella and its surroundings.”

A Rising Star Like Smadar, Engel & Völkers as a global brand is a rising star in the luxury real estate sector, developing over the past 25 years to become a major global player, with almost 6,000 people working in 600 offices in 39 countries across the five continents. Luxury residential is the main field of activity, though there are also successful divisions in commercial real estate, yachts and aviation, with an original emphasis on primary homes and increasing growth in the secondary ‘holiday home’ segment. “It isn’t by coincidence that we are selling many of the most luxurious estates in the Marbella area,” says Smadar, “just as it isn’t a coincidence that Engel & Völkers has become so successful.”

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Engel & Voelkers Marbella Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, CN 340 km 178,2 - CC La Póveda, Local 5, 29602 Marbella, Málaga. Tel: +34 952 868 406. www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast Smadar.Kahana@engelvoelkers.com Engel & Voelkers Puerto Banús Av. Manolete, 529, 29660 Puerto Banús. Tel: +34 952 859 860. www.engelvoelkers.com/en-es/marbella/ puertobanus/

She puts it down to a unique combination of a centralised and consistently high standard of presentation, service and professionalism, and the resources of a global organisation. “They provide Engel & Völkers agents such as myself with a valuable ‘toolbox’ consisting of marketing clout, technical expertise and a valuable international network of colleagues with access to many of the most important property buyers and investors in the world. We receive client referrals from E&V shops worldwide throughout the day. One of the reasons why people like this choose Engel & Völkers is because it is a known quantity – if they have had dealings with the company in their own country they know that they can expect the same service and procedures wherever in the world they step into one of our shops.” Having said that, the shops are operated by people who marry this corporate philosophy to their local knowledge of the market. The licenses are geographically defined, and those who buy one have the benefit of marketing platforms with a global reach – such as a powerful online presence, in-house publications such as GG, which with its print run of 300,000 is a leading lifestyle publication that reaches a targeted international audience, and effective PR and press coverage globally. “But we also have to comply with the highest standards, so in addition to technical and marketing support we receive on-going training and courses designed especially at the company’s central Real Estate Academy.” The international scope of Engel & Völkers means that shops from different areas, regions or even continents work closely together to bring buyers and properties together, but it also provides the means to develop bespoke features such as the carousel

Smadar Kahana of Engel & Völkers Marbella with Christian Völkers, Simoneta Gómez Acebo, Gunilla Von Bismarck and Sven Odia Smadar’s Engel & Völkers team

screensavers that enable different agents to share news, information and requests on a platform visible to Engel & Völkers colleagues around the world.

Marketing Above Sales Within this growing organisation, Smadar is herself a highly respected member, due not just to her impressive growth and good client rapport, but naturally also because Marbella is one of those high-profile locations important to brands such as Engel & Völkers. Not only does she attend top events such as the annual Engel & Völkers Polo Tournament held at the finca of founder Christian Völkers in Mallorca, but she is also one of a select number of licensees that are members of the company’s prestigious private office, whose speciality is dealing with the very top end of the market with the discretion and client base needed. Smadar’s is a trajectory of success that is impressive but not without precedent, for when she emphasises that hers is a philosophy built on marketing, not sales, she refers to a career that has led by way of International Marketing Director of Sixt to becoming one of the fastestgrowing luxury real estate agencies in Marbella. “So we don’t have a quick deal mentality, but a marketing philosophy that embraces the strict technical requirements and manner of conduct imposed upon us by Engel & Völkers. I believe

in true real estate agents, with proper product and market knowledge, who recognise that they are commissioned by the vendor – not in sales organisations.” Like many of the leading agencies in this area she regards the latter as an on-going threat to the reputation of the property industry on the Costa del Sol. “I moved here with my family to enjoy the quality of life of Marbella, have worked hard and have brought up two daughters who are now studying marketing at universities in Munich and Paris. My commitment is to this lovely part of the world we are fortunate enough to live in, but unfortunately those of us who strive to uphold high standards of service and conduct are faced by people with a lesser sense of responsibility to the industry and a lesser commitment to an area they flock to and leave as the opportunities come and go. I would like to see a greater sense of quality control in Marbella real estate, but in the meantime it is up to us to provide honest, factually supported valuations and offer a service that is impeccable and effective. I’m glad to say this approach is bearing fruit, and we are receiving a growing number of top quality properties in our portfolio that are given to us in exclusivity, so that we can use all the means at our disposal to find the right buyer for them,” says the woman who not only adds a touch of glamour to Marbella real estate but also drive and determination. e

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THE FOCUS people

n person, Victoria is much like a typical young woman her age; chatty, friendly and warm, she admits that she understands why people might find it odd that she dedicates her life to fighting, yet states, “You are either born with the fighting spirit or you’re not… there is no way that someone who is scared of the ring, can be trained to lose that fear.” There is a deep passion in her voice when she speaks about kickboxing for, in many ways, this sport has saved her. Just two years ago, Victoria weighed 100 kilos; she was hardly the sporty type and her restless personality was in desperate need of an outlet. If anyone thinks that kickboxing fosters aggression, Victoria assures me that it is quite the opposite: “I was angry all the time and my parents would say I had too much energy. Nowadays, I notice that I start feeling edgy when I don’t train for a couple of days…” When I ask her if she has considered yoga for calming down stressed nerves, she laughs and concludes that she is more into fighting than balancing chakras. Victoria trains hard to stay in shape; a typical day begins with a one-and-a-half-hour training session at the gym. She then completes a CrossFit workout, upping her fitness level with the multidisciplinary training method that has transformed thousands of people across the globe, helping them shed weight and gain tremendous strength and fitness. In the afternoon, Victoria trains in kickboxing once again, at Spartan’s Gym in Fuengirola, where she also teaches kickboxing classes. “My oldest pupil is 64,” says Victoria,

“and she loves it! The youngest fighter at the gym is a six-year-old boy. He is having his first ‘match’ soon.” There is no-one better to share the transformational power of fighting than this unexpected hero, who probably never imagined herself as a national champion until she discovered she had something special. “I lost all my weight in just six months, and my trainers asked me if I wanted to fight. I jumped at the chance.” If you are interested in kickboxing lessons for yourself or your children, fear not; all fighters begin wearing a host of protective gear (shin pads, knee pads, head guards, etc.). In all non-title fights, fighters can wear the gear their trainers deem suitable. At Victoria’s level, logically, only a mouth guard is worn. Sometimes, the fights can seem more dramatic than they are; a small cut can cause bleeding, as it did in the case of one of Victoria’s previous fights. “I had a small nick at the top of my forehead, caused by a knee strike from my opponent. She kept aiming for the same place but the wound was small and remained that way throughout the fight.” It is no wonder that when I ask the fighter about the Pacquiao-Mayweather match, she admits to having missed it. Quite simply, she finds WBO boxing boring; “I miss the leg action; they only use two hands in boxing,” she says.

To be successful at kickboxing, it takes immense agility and speed (to anticipate and react to your opponent’s moves), but also great strength to withstand the blows from fists, knees and (in the case of Muay Thai) elbows. There are certain parts of the body (the jaw and the ‘floating rib’), which a fighter needs to protect at all costs. Victoria explains, “Once someone hits you on the jaw, it is very hard to stay up; everything immediately becomes blurry.” In fact, the fighter was able to knock her opponent out with a knee strike to the floating rib: “My trainer (Ilde García) told me to strike low and to use my legs a lot and that really paid off.” Indeed, the words of her trainer do plenty to make sure her attitude is right during a fight: “He reminds me of how hard I’ve trained and tells me that my opponent is trying to take it all away from me… and this motivates me to give it my all.” As a young woman, Victoria is lucky to count on the support of her parents. Her father, Paul, is a kickboxing fanatic and doesn’t miss a single match. Her mother is a little more reticent. “My Mum tries to come to important matches, but she does suffer… she spends most of her time rummaging through her bag so she doesn’t have to look at the ring,” Victoria laughs. Victoria fights both in Spain and in the UK. She disappointedly notes that, “The fighter I had always dreamed of taking on, retired this year.” Apparently, kickboxers tend to retire in their mid30s, only sometimes as the result of a decision to become a mother. “We should remember fighters like Julie Kitchen, who has had children and continued training. Thus far she has won 10 world titles,” Victoria informs me. I ask her what it takes to be a great fighter. She answers, “Heart,” and as an avid lover of the sport of boxing myself, thoughts of some of the greatest fighters of all time, such as Muhammad Ali, come flooding in. For many a child raised watching historical bouts in the company of their family, the great fighters represent much more than their respective wins or knockouts; they are the brave ones, the ones you can see coming, the ones who never give up, who live by an ethic of hard work, and sacrifice. Society is still riddled with stereotypes, yet to see Victoria at her fighting best (many of her matches can be viewed on YouTube) makes patent that female fighters are heralding a new era, knocking down preconceived notions of what a woman can do.

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Lively, blue-eyed and with a smile that could launch a thousands ships… Victoria Lomax, born in Manchester and raised on the Costa del Sol, is the Spanish National Kickboxing Champion (60kg category). She took home the title after knocking out her rival in the second round at the packed Municipal Sports Centre in Rincón de la Victoria. The boxer fractured her opponent’s shin by defending herself against a kick with her knee: “The knee is one of the strongest bones in the body,” she smiles.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

VICTORIA

LOMAX

Heart of a Warrior

g To keep up with Victoria’s upcoming ﬁghts,

visit her Facebook page (Victoria Lomax). To attend her kickboxing classes (she has morning and afternoon classes), call Tel: 687 889 599. polarlomax@hotmail.com www.martialarts.es

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style

INTERIORS / ARCHITECTURE / ART / DESIGN

Visit a truly spectacular property in La Zagaleta, conceived and developed by Ark Architects. Discover the coolest swimwear designs from Dolores Cortés and step into the swish new premises of Pavés Jewellers in Puerto Banús.

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Decór: Ark Architects

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Décor: Pavés Jewellers

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THE STYLE decor

The pool as a central focal point

Set within one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most desirable residential settlements is a villa that embodies modern luxury and style. Designed for 21st century sophistication, it showcases the aesthetic and technical skill that exists in our midst. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ARK ARCHITECTS

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Designing a touch of heaven in

LA ZAGALETA M

uch is said of the new wave of modern architectural design that is gripping Marbella and transforming its urban landscape. The sleek, mostly white villas and ediﬁces are giving the town and its environs a renewed, fresh look as they open a chapter in this region’s history. Yet contemporary styles such as these are easy to get wrong – and when the design, proportions and the quality of the materials are not of the highest standard a pastiche of modern architecture can result. In this genre more than any other, perhaps, the skill and vision of

the architect is a crucial factor that decides between forgettable and unforgettable. A showpiece of such ability, this extraordinary new villa in La Zagaleta has all the makings of a modern home you will be overawed by. Impressive yet luxuriously welcoming and comfortable, it imposes without losing its primary focus as a home. “More and more of our clients are now asking for this kind of style, and along with the latest stylistic lines they also want all the comforts, advanced materials and technology-based amenities that a villa like this encompasses,”

says Diego Suárez Jurado one of the partners at Ark Architects in Sotogrande. Though based in the western part of the Costa del Sol, Ark has the same kind of reputation and portfolio of work in Marbella. “La Zagaleta is a particularly active area, and projects here are among the most exciting to work on as their scale and brief is demanding of the very best, also giving the chance to use a lot of design creativity, architectural solutions and top quality materials and ﬁttings – not to mention a level of high-tech features that keeps a technical architect like me highly engaged.”

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Lifestyle driven architectural design

Creating a Lifestyle Properties such as these are therefore far more than merely a house – they represent an expression of style and create the setting for a dream lifestyle in one of Europe’s hotly desired settings. From its privileged location the villa is orientated towards a broad sweep of the Mediterranean Sea, taking in not just the silhouettes of Gibraltar and the North Africa coastline but also the idyllic greenery of the Club de Campo La Zagaleta and its unspoiled surroundings. The latter includes an expansive country club estate where deer live in the forested hills and birds of prey train the eye towards soaring mountain ranges as they hover up high.

“The client chose La Zagaleta because it is private, secure and spacious, with expansive views and ﬁrst class on-site amenities, such as a riding school,” says Diego, “but also because it is an address with the prestige that suits a home such as this.” The advantage of country clubs like this is that they offer the pleasures and natural surroundings of country living yet have everything close at hand, from the beaches of Marbella to its downtown area, sports facilities and the lively hub of Puerto Banús. “What’s more, the size of the plot here allows you to create a private domain built around a lifestyle concept.”

Green areas connecting with nature

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Bird’s eye view of the villa

Outdoor Jacuzzi and bar

A Landmark Home Though contemporary in its styling, the villa exudes a sense of presence and bearing that can be traced back to a modern interpretation of classical architectural principles. The driveway takes you right to the imposing entrance, where sleek but solid doors slides open to reveal a breathtaking perspective through the living areas and terrace and across the infinity swimming pool to where it meets sea and sky on the horizon. The tones are light and clean, but together with the quality of the materials used in the doors, walls, floors and railings, invoke a sense of solidity. Indeed, this is a villa that achieves a fine balance between male and female elements, with tall, right-angled windows adding masculinity and the light, open-flowing distribution contributing a feminine sensibility to the home.

The interplay of forms and spaces produces a dance of light in this breezy villa, enticing you out of the imposing hallway into the equally stylish living and dining room. Connected to a state-of-the-art Gaggenau kitchen (you wouldn’t expect anything less), these living spaces also interact with a large outdoor area that transcends the description ‘terrace’ to create an outdoor lounge space that is just as comfortable and tasteful as the interior. For more intimate moments, the delightful sitting room is just the place to put your feet up and watch a movie. Though it features the latest high-spec home entertainment equipment, complete with a modern fireplace that is also a design statement, this is a decidedly cosy area designed for the family.

The upper floor is a private domain dedicated to luxurious bedroom suites in which the architectural design features are as impressive as the panoramic views over Marbella’s coastline. These include beautifully finished stone walls that add character and ambience to the luxurious suites, and not surprisingly the master suite is particularly opulent. The same can be said of the private spa on the lower level, of which many a five-star deluxe resort would be envious. Sliding doors open up to let in fresh air as well as lots of natural light and stunning vistas as you float in the indoor pool. In the layout, design and finishing of its spa facilities and vodka style bar, Ark have certainly taken the Marbella home spa and gym to a new level, raising the bar for others to follow.

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A La Zagaleta villa with everything

Open flowing interior distribution

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Luxurious outdoor living as an expression of the Marbella lifestyle

g C.C. Sotomarket, Oﬁcina Nº 3, A-7,

Salida 130, 11310 Sotogrande. Tel: 956 793 166 / 670 342 347. www.ark-architects.com info@ark-arquitectos.com www.theheaven11.com

The team at Ark Architects

Indeed, in many ways this is the kind of modern property that dreams are made of; the high standing architectural design is visible everywhere, evident in a 21st century wine cellar that offers a great sense of occasion and a home cinema that is wonderfully comfy. In lauding Ark for their architectural styling and the way they have created a comprehensive lifestyle concept with this villa, one mustn’t forget that they were responsible for the entire project, from the wiring and plumbing to the swimming pools. “The idea of an architect just submitting designs and handing the project over to a team of builders, technicians, engineers and gardeners is antiquated now,” says Diego. “We are the project’s architects and created the technical and design concept, but increasingly people want to have one point of reference, one quote that allows them to budget accurately. And a company with the resources, market knowledge and ability to lead teams that allow us to deliver a ready-made home complete with landscaping, home automation, lighting, technical infrastructure and décor not just in place, but done to the highest standards.” Ark Architects have a long history of doing just that, but they have really outdone themselves with this modern masterpiece – proving just how much talent and expertise is available on the Costa del Sol. e

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State of the art private spa

Imposing modern lines

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THE STYLE decor

New Look for

Pavés Jewellers

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PAVÉS JEWELLERS

avés Jewellers in Puerto Banús has long been hailed as the ultimate jewellery house for bespoke designs made with the very best quality diamonds, gems and metals. Owner, Nicholas Yeoman, leads a talented team whose aim is to bring their clients’ vision to life with designs as intricately detailed, or simple and minimalistic, as is desired. The high-end boutique also creates its own collections, known for their modernity and unique beauty. Take the rings from their Puzzle Collection, which have already garnered ‘iconic piece’ status: made in yellow, white or rose gold, they comprise a series of ‘jigsaw pieces’ covered in sparkling diamonds which are elegant and playful all at once… then there is Shankla, the ultimate symbol of the Coast: gorgeous sandal-shaped pendants which remind

us that the sea and sand are a source of life (and a livelihood) for so many people in the South of Spain. The designers also work extensively with amber, the fossilised resin, which has been appreciated for its beauty since Neolithic times. At Pavés, the warm golden gemstone is combined with top grade diamonds, additional gems and precious materials to create colourful and completely unique pieces for the woman who likes to stand out. Pavés has recently undergone a complete refurbishment that takes it into a league of its own. Their premises in the Cristamar commercial centre now boast a two-floor design, featuring a new showroom and design studio, where the team develops concepts and designs with customers in real time. Nicholas Yeoman tells me, “The new showroom is located on

the upper floor, which means that clients can have all the privacy they need, working alongside our designers to bring their vision to life.” The new layout works magnificently. The first floor, bold and elegant and graced with an array of wooden and beigehued designer furniture pieces, houses a selection of Pavés jewellery, while wooden desks set a warm tone and invite clients to speak with the staff. A glass suspended staircase winds gracefully to the upper floor, where clients find a waiting room (fitted with an antique Chesterfield sofa and comfy leather chairs), a meeting room (also displaying some of Pavés’ most beautiful creations and boasting green emerald LED-lighting effects) and the studio itself. The graceful interiors are the work of local interior decorators, UDesign.

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The new studio is delightfully different in look and feel from the serious, boldly dark, contemporary meeting and waiting rooms. Pristine white holds sway here, with flirty touches to be found in the hot pink and cool green fabrics of the chairs. The studio overlooks one of the busiest streets in Puerto Banús, graced with swaying palm trees and a procession of luxury cars coasting by. On the day of my visit, talented Designer, Javier Pena (who has worked with the world’s most renowned jewellers, including De Beers), is busy working on illustrations for a client. Nicholas has scored a real coup in bringing Javier into the team; the latter’s stunning sketches and designs have made him one of the most highly solicited artists in Spain. Javier shows me some of his latest works: a pair of sparkling, dangling earrings, set with emeralds and diamonds, each varying in design. Other creations breathe new life into old pieces of jewellery, by setting valuable gems and diamonds in contemporary settings… once the designs are complete, says Javier, the pieces are brought to life in Valencia, Córdoba and the Basque Country, each creator specialised in one particular type of jewellery. “A client can spend all morning with me, since there are many decisions to be made regarding the choice of materials and designs.” Javier’s drawings are masterpieces to behold and I marvel at the sketches of fabulous pieces made with baroque pearls, rose and white gold, and diamonds of all colours (brown, ice, white, pink and black)… it soon becomes apparent why, when it comes to commissioning a new piece of jewellery or redesigning an existing piece, quality time with the designer is key.

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A few steps ahead from the designers' studio is Nicholas’ office, fitted with standing wooden and crystal beams, which make it easily accessible and partially visible. He notes that the renovations may have taken months, but the results are well worth it. “We wanted to bring in more designers, so it was important to have more space. The two-floor layout of the shop also means that clients can have all the privacy they need upstairs, or have a drink in the client area overlooking Puerto Banús.” The sitting room is fitted with solid wooden beams on the floors and ceilings, bearing a blend of old world and modern touches. Various details seduce the eyes and awaken the sense of touch, since it can be difficult not to run one’s hand across features such as the gorgeous mineral wallpaper, bearing a stony effect which complements the sparkling gems and diamonds so beautifully. At night time, the large-scale windows of the upper floor give passers-by a glance into the studio and meeting rooms, each bearing an entirely different lighting scheme and style. Of

course, the glittering jewels showcased on the ground floor are more than enough temptation to merit a visit inside. Nicholas is as excited about the new showroom as he is about Javier’s work: “We were very pleased when Javier decided to come onboard. He is used to dealing with high-end clients from New York, London and Paris, so he fits right into the ambience at Pavés.” The exteriors of Pavés are as impressive as the interiors, the dark tile effect and metal door lending a sombre effect. The quality of materials and the contemporary shapes of the building fit in perfectly with the firm’s reputation as a leader in the luxury design sector. “Everything we sell has always been 100 per cent made by us, but our new premises and design studio add an international touch that appeals to our clientele.” 'Beauty is truth', Keats noted, and Pavés new look is every inch a true reflection of a company that is dedicated, heart and soul, to flawless design, perfect craftsmanship and the ultimate in client satisfaction. e

g C/ Francisco Villalón,

C.C. Cristamar 15-16, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 818 822. www.paves.es

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Enjoy the relaxing Shanti-Som Wellbeing Retreat RESTAURANT - SPA - YOGA - HOTEL

Relax and Enjoy

...only 10 minutes from Marbella Open daily for lunch to the public

Ctra. de Ojen km 22 - A355 Monda - Marbella Tel: 952 86 44 55 or 628 79 30 13

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SHANTI-SOM We l l b e i n g R e t r e a t 6/23/14 12:15 PM

THE STYLE fashion

A Cut Above the Rest A HINT OF SKIN

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BACK TO THE FUTURE

DOLORES CORTÉS

What better month than August to bring fashion lovers the brand new swimwear collection by Dolores Cortés? These stunning swimsuits and bikinis, presented at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Madrid, show that a designer costume can be your most elegant option in the summertime. Take your pick from these stylish designs, compiled by Marisa Cutillas.

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COLOUR EXPLOSION

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A TOUCH OF FIRE

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A SPLASH OF BLACK

i www.dolores-cortes.com

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THE STYLE fashion

OCEANIA by Louis Vuitton

Speedy 30 bag

Colour abounds in leather items this summer, as can be gleaned from Louis Vuitton’s marvellous sea-inspired collection. The voyage of your dreams never looked so stylish… COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

b ag Neverfull

Zippy walle t

Keepall Bandoulière bag

Speedy 30 bag

Styling

it on the

b eac h

i www.louisvuitton.es

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Very TO VIRIA Mini Magic

Viriato brings us a summer collection for the urban woman who likes to celebrate her most feminine side.

Floral Focus

www.viriato.com

Coral Inspirations

Ship Ahoy

Shapes of the Future

Innocence of White

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spa

PRODUCTS / Beauty / SPA / SCIENCE

Soothe body and mind with a relaxing Biznaga treatment at the Vincci Estrella del Mar’s Nammu Spa, stretch your limbs at your very own standing desk and discover what a full day’s bliss at Healthouse Las Dunas feels like.

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118 The Biznaga Treatment 120 Beauty News 122 The Benefits of a Standing Desk 124 Health News 126 A Day of Pampering at Healthouse Las Dunas

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spa

BEAUTY

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

THE BIZNAGA TREATMENT

ADVICE

AT THE VINCCI ESTRELLA DEL MAR BEACH CLUB

arbella is once again undergoing a cycle of rebirth and nowhere is this more evident than in the appearance of elegant new venues like the Vincci Estrella del Mar Beach Club. Perched on the frontline of the beach in Elviria, the Club is over 4,000m2 in size, its 1,200m2 Nammu Spa boasting a wealth of treatment rooms, as well as a luxurious ‘wet area’ with a sizeable circuit pool (ﬁtted with jet water massage features), a Turkish bath, sauna, contrast pools and much more. From the relaxation area in the spa, guests gaze through pristine crystal walls at the inﬁnity pool and gardens, dotted with exotic Balinese beds and hammocks, simply begging to be visited for a refreshing swim in the warmest months of the summer. Nammu Spa is an ideal choice when a full day off is in order; its gym, once again overlooking the sea, is a great spot for a workout, while the plethora of water features and the

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spa itself, are a veritable invitation to non-stop pampering. Ultimately, you can choose to make your visit to the Spa as long and leisurely or short and sweet as you like. Some clients visit just to have a treatment; others make it a full day, and members make the most of the facilities, including the gym and pool, at discounted rates. The Beach Club boasts a scenic restaurant, where you can enjoy a hearty meal (we suggest the catch-of-the-day ﬁsh and seafood) between a workout, treatment and a refreshing dip in the pool. The treatment list at the Spa is outstanding, having been meticulously dreamed up by the Spa Director and her highly skilled staff. Athletic types can soothe their tired muscles with a vigorous sports massage, while those wishing to visit Nirvana for a few precious moments can opt for something more relaxing (the Thai massage is a must for a true R ‘n’ R-ﬁlled experience).

During my recent visit to Nammu, I opted for a treatment that had piqued my curiosity since I ﬁrst heard about it: the Biznaga, named after Málaga’s famous flower. The biznaga isn’t actually a ‘flower’, of course, but an artistic creation made from fragrant jasmine. White, umbrella-shaped and feminine as a dandelion, it plays an important role in Málaga’s most famed events, including ferias, festivals and exhibitions. The treatment comprised a full body massage, with no painful or tense spots being ignored. The therapist had gifted hands and put them to good use, giving me a soothing Swedish-style massage from head to toe. She ﬁrst asked me to lie on my belly, and applied fragrant lily and jasmin oil to my feet and legs, working her way up to my back, shoulders, arms and even my hands, addressing the tension housed in large as well as

small muscles, such as those in the fingers. She worked on one side of the body first and then the other, asking me to turn around. Once again, she started with my feet and worked her way up. I was close to asleep for most of the massage, for it really hit the spot and released all the pent-up tension in my neck and back. I faintly recall the welcome touch of the therapists hands on my neck and head, and the application of gentle stretching motions, which body and soul gave into completely… After the massage, I was invited to enjoy a warm jasmin tea. The therapist explained that jasmine not only energises body and mind, it also aids in the elimination of toxins and in drainage, thus the lighter, more energetic feeling that took over after the massage. One aspect I would highlight about this treatment is that despite being deeply relaxing, it filled me with vitality and boosted my mood for the rest of the day. Nammu Spa at the Vincci Estrella del Mar is certainly a spot to keep in mind when a soothing or energising treatment are the order of the day. Five-star installations are married to top class talent and experience with a relaxing sea view that make it easy to forget we ever had a care in the world.

g CN340, km 190.7, Urb. Estrella del Mar, Marbella. Tel: 951 053 970. www.vinccihoteles.com

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AS WE ALWAYS WANT TO PROVIDE THE BEST SERVICE TO OUR PATIENTS WE HAVE MOVED TO A BIGGER PLACE. YOU WILL FIND US AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:

EDIF. PANORAMA PLANTA BAJA, LOCAL 2 CTRA. DE CADIZ, KM 184 E - 29603 MARBELLA

ADVANCED PLASTIC AND COSMETIC SURGERY FOR FACE, BODY AND BUST Cirumed pairs high academic credentials with latest technologies in modern minimally invasive Plastic Surgery, to bring the best cosmetic surgery to Marbella. All our surgeons are specialist consultants at the Department of Plastic surgery of Spain’s elite hospital, Hospital Quirón. To have been elected amongst Spain’s best surgeons to represent Quirón’s specialist department is not only our best reference, but also our obligation.

DR. ALEXANDER ASLANI Chairman of the Department of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery Hospital Quirón Málaga Hospital Quirón Marbella Director of Cirumed Clinic Marbella

Cirumed Clinic /// Edif. Panorama, Planta baja, Local 2 /// Ctra. De Cadiz, km 184 /// E - 29603 Marbella /// Tel: +34 952 775 346 /// www.cirumed.es /// www.alexanderaslani.com /// www.alexander-aslani.es

spa

BEAUTY

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF

WELEDA

PRODUCTS

This cream is part of the Almond range, made for sensitive skin. The cream moisturises skin and reduces the appearance of ﬁne lines, as well as soothing irritation, itching, rashes and tightness.

ALMOND SOOTHING FACIAL CREAM

Soothe tired feet with this refreshing balm, which is easily absorbed and which softens even the toughest skin. Contains astringent myrrh extract and soothing calendula extract.

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If you’ve been seeing an array of pastel-coloured skincare products gracing the shelves of your favourite beauty shop, the Weleda revolution has probably overtaken your neck of the woods too. The multi-national company produces both 100 per cent natural beauty products and naturopathic medicines, keen to harness the incredible powers of Nature to enhance our health, beauty and sense of well-being. Absolutely nothing made by Weleda has been tested on animals, which is another reason to rejoice. Marisa Cutillas bring you her top list of items by one of the world’s most conscionable and environmentally friendly brands.

Boasting a unique combination of plant extracts and natural plant oils which stimulate the body’s regenerating process and enhance the smoothness and ﬁrmness of skin.

Cooling aloe gel and jojoba oil make this balm a must for men with sensitive skin who love the cleanshaven look.

AFTER SHAVE BALM

BIRCH CELLULITE OIL

The Pomegranate range is meant to ﬁrm skin. This eye cream stimulates cellular renewal, thanks to ingredients like pomegranate, macadamia and argan. It protects the delicate eye area against environmental aggressors.

POMEGRANATE FIRMING EYE CREAM

Gently cleanse your hair and maintain suppleness with this gentle shampoo, which contains macadamia nut oil and organic millet extracts, as well as aromatic sage.

MILLET NOURISHING SHAMPOO

g Available at most beauty shops and at Holland & Barrett in Fuengirola and in Marbella. www.weleda.es

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HEALTH

If you have friends living in Australia or the U.S., you may have noticed that many of them are posting pictures of themselves at their brand new standing desk. With research indicating that sitting down for many hours straight is a leading cause of heart disease, deep vein thrombosis and stroke, people are embracing the standing lifestyle; after all, ‘sitting is the new smoking’. Studies have shown that those who sit for various hours on end have a 90 per cent higher risk of developing Type II diabetes than those who move around more; they also have an 18 per cent greater chance of dying from heart disease, and a 24 per cent higher risk of dying from any cause. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VARIDESK

UPDATE

WHY STANDING DESKS ARE ALL THE RAGE I

nterestingly, standing desks aren’t a new thing; as early as the 18th century, members of the elite were already working upright in their mansions, and some of history’s most famous standing desk users include Winston Churchill, Virginia Woolf, Ernest Hemingway and even Benjamin Franklin! So what makes standing desks so beneﬁ cial to our health? One study published in the International Journal of Environment Research and Public Health, found that switching from sitting to standing desks reduced the amount of sedentary time in participants by over three hours a week. It also enhanced their sense of well-being, and bestowed them with greater energy, lowering fatigue levels and even decreasing the appetite! However, in order to reap the beneﬁ ts of a standing desk,

you need to use it correctly. Firstly, you should not remain in the standing position all day. All modern standing desks are adjustable and are meant to be modiﬁ ed throughout the day, so you alternate between sitting and standing. Every 20 to 25 minutes, adjust the height of your desk and change your working position. Standing all days carries a variety of risks, including spinal compression and lower back pain. As those who spend too much time on their feet will tell you, it also increases the risk of varicose veins, Deep Vein Thrombosis and other heart-related problems, since the heart has to work against the force of gravity to ensure blood supply throughout the body. Doctors advise that we alternate various times during the day between sitting and standing. It is also important to keep moving, what is so unhealthy about sitting down isn’t the

actual position you are in; it is the fact that you aren’t moving. Doctors advise that we make it a point to walk or move our limbs every few minutes to get our circulation going. Try not to stay still for more than an hour and while you are working, move your feet and arms. Even micro-movements can stimulate circulation. Finally, even if you don’t decide to invest in a standing desk, you can always reap similar rewards by taking basic steps to avoid being sedentary at work: Z At break time, do some stretching exercises or perform squats using a heavy book. Z If you have some minutes to spare, go for a 10-minute brisk walk or simply run up and down the stairs a couple of times. Z Make it a point to perform a select list of tasks, standing up. For instance, make a mental note to take all phone calls in a standing position, and don’t

ask someone else to make you a cup of tea; this will give you a good excuse to get up and head for the kitchen or common room. Z Create your own standing work station: If you can ﬁnd a way to raise your computer and lower it, while working comfortably, by all means, get creative. A standing desk is ideal because it is created to support your forearms while you work, but before buying one, you can always give your own makeshift desk a go, to see if it works for you. Z Redesign your workspace: Change the position of your computer, or your keyboard, to allow for reflexive changes in your posture. Z Make it a team effort: If you share a workspace with others and you all have standing desks, you can make a pact to stand at the same time, to ensure you are actually sticking to your best intentions. e

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spa

HEALTH

World

UPDATE

Parkinson’s Day The Vithas Xanit International Hospital recently celebrated World Parkinson’s Day, sharing important information with patients, fellow doctors and members of the press. The Vithas Xanit, which has a dedicated Movement Unit, specialised in the treatment of Parkinson’s Disease, announced that over 22,000 people in Andalucía have Parkinson’s. Although most patients are aged over 60, some ﬁve per cent of all those diagnosed are under 40. When the disease appears between the ages of 72 and 75, it is normally more serious and patients tend to be less responsive to treatment. Although there have been many advances in the treatment of the disease, there is, thus far, no cure. Currently, the possibility of restoring affected areas in the brain through cellular therapy is in the experimental phase. However, many patients do encounter signiﬁcant improvements through physiotherapy, occupational therapy, music therapy and bio feedback. i www.xanit.es

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS Consuming a diet which is rich in walnuts can slow down the growth of colorectal tumours, thanks to the powerful anti-cancer effects of this food. A recent study carried out at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre at Harvard Medical School showed that the consumption of walnuts causes changes in the micro ribonucleic acid (micro-RNA), which are involved in the alteration of genetic expression, and which affect important anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic effects. The study showed that walnuts increase the level of Omega-3 fatty acids in cancerous tumours, thereby hampering their growth.

A Diet Rich in Walnuts Helps Stave Off Colon Cancer

ABCD:

A Practical Way to Identify Possible Melanomas Doctor Díaz of the Quiron Hospitals gives practical advice for identifying possible skin cancers; just use the ABCD test, being watchful for: Asymmetry: Moles or spots which are not symmetrical. Borders which are irregular Colour: Watch out for spots or moles which are brown or black. Diameter: Normally, skin cancers measure 6mm or more.

KEEP KIDS’ SKIN HEALTHY THIS SUMMER Dr. José Luis Díaz, Head of Pediatrics at the Quirón Hospitals in Gibraltar and Marbella, recently advised parents not to let down their guard, even on the cloudiest days of the summer, when it comes to protecting their children’s skin. Burns suffered in childhood and adolescence are an important risk factor for serious conditions like skin cancer later in life. Dr. Díaz recommends the following tips: Z Avoid sun exposure from 12p to 4pm. Z Ensure kids wear authorised children’s sunglasses to avoid cataracts in the future. Z Kids should wear a Tshirt, cap and clothing with UV ﬁlters when they take part in outdoor activities. Z Apply sunscreen for kids, with an SPF of between 25 and 50. Z Apply sunscreen half an hour before exposing kids to the sun; apply a generous amount all over the body. Z Reapply sunscreen every two hours and every time they step out of the pool or sea, even though the product claims to be waterproof. Remember that skin has memory, and that burns produced in childhood can have serious consequences in adulthood. Whenever we ﬁnd a suspicious mole or spot, we should see our doctor immediately.

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spa

HEALTH

STEPPING INTO THE BLISS

A Day at Healthouse Las Dunas Healthouse Las Dunas may have opened a little over a year ago, but it has fast become the leading choice for those wishing to enjoy a holiday on the Coast at a grand luxe ﬁve-star hotel, while completing a weight loss, anti-ageing, or quit smoking programme. Healthouse also hit the headlines nationwide when Andoni Aduriz, two Michelin-starred Chef of the world-famous Mugaritz, took the reigns of the restaurant, preparing meals which average around 300 calories in total and resorting to veritable wizardry to ensure clients never felt hungry, as though they were not on a health or weight loss diet at all… WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

UPDATE

espite the media coverage, many people don’t know that Healthouse Las Dunas can also be enjoyed by external customers, who can opt to spend a couple of hours at the spa, or head for the restaurant to enjoy the revolutionary meals of Aduriz. In reality, all clients are free to personalise their visit to Healthouse, staying for as little (even a coffee) or as long (make it a weekend or day escape) as they like. The summer is the busiest time of the year on the Coast, yet by the time mid-July set in, I knew I needed at least a full day’s break to recharge my batteries and up my pampering quotient. I therefore opted to spend a whole day at Healthouse. My experience began at the Spa, where I ﬁrst had a chat with Dr. Guijarro. Since it was a day’s visit I didn’t opt to have any tests done, but after speaking with him, I was seriously tempted. Dr. Guijarro mentioned that when

guests arrive for a week or fornightly programme, they normally undergo simple tests to check for issues that may be leading to overweight/obesity, such as insulin resistance, thyroid problems, etc. Healthouse uses the cutting-edge Dexa machine to check for fat, muscle and bone levels, which is great for ascertaining where we are storing more fat, or whether or not we are in danger of osteoporosis. “We don’t just help people lose weight,” says the Doc, “we try to ﬁx the metabolic issues which may be causing the problem in the ﬁrst place.” Our chat was informative and practical; he gave lots of good tips such as consuming pasta al dente (since insulin levels don’t rise so fast as when pasta is softer). Weight loss or wellness do indeed seem like easy goals to achieve at Healthouse: an onsite Psychologist and Nutritionists lead you through every step of the way and the ultimate sensation is

one of luxury and being cared for, rather than suffering, starving or punishing your body. Healthouse has a beautiful gym with all the latest equipment, and classes for guests like yoga and Pilates. The staff also give interesting talks on health, nutrition and exercise. At the Spa, I ﬁrst visited the thermal area, just as spacious (the spa measures almost 3000m2) and varied as you would imagine. There was a beautiful circuit pool, as well as contrast pools, a Turkish bath, Finnish sauna, ice cave, tepidarium and, unique to Healthouse, a ‘halotherapy’ room, made entirely from brick-sized blocks of pink, Himalayan sea salt. Although I visited all the rooms and sensation showers, I must admit to having spent the most time in the salt room, inhaling the gentle vapours which clear the sinuses and enhance healthy breathing. I also dipped into the circuit pool, enjoying powerful jet massages on my feet, neck and back.

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After relaxing a while on the sumptuous beds, therapist, Juan José Alba, gave me a relaxing massage using Argan oil, as well as essential oils of lavender and rosemary (to relax and battle fatigue all at once). The massage was unbeatable, owing to a variety of factors: the warm and peaceful, beautifully scented treatment rooms, the unsurpassed power of the human touch and the massage itself, which addressed pain and tension in the feet, legs, back, shoulders and arms.

What better way to end this beautiful day than with a meal by Andoni Aduriz? I was completely taken aback by how delicious this experience was, despite containing just 300 calories. First up was a white asparagus cream with nuts and caviar, dazzling in flavour despite the fact it contained hardly any fat and no carbohydrates;

g CN 340, km 163.5, Estepona. Tel: 951 082 090. www.heathouse-naturhouse.com 192 HP.indd 127

Aduriz is a whizz at using vegetable fibres to create creamy textures while fostering digestive health. I then tucked into fresh wild asparagus tips, served with cottage cheese and summer truffles. The main course was a hearty lamb tagine cooked for 36 hours at 50ºC, inspired on nearby Morrocco (which can be viewed from the seafront Hotel on a sunny day). The head of the restaurant, Macarena Valiente, patiently explained the groundbreaking techniques used to create each dish, which truly are individual labours of love by a team that broke all the moulds to invent low-cal, healthy haute cuisine which relies on seasonal produce and cutting edge techniques to bring the very best nutrients to diners. Dessert was a mango cream catalana without any eggs or cream (traditionally used to prepare the revered Catalán sweet). Once again, fruit fibres lent the dish a creamy texture and the crumbly top was made of desiccated mango instead of burnt sugar. I also enjoyed various cocktails

with my meal, each of which had only between five and 15 calories. Made of teas, essences and waters, they hit the spot on the warm, sunny day that it was, and the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the non-alcoholic pink Cava, made with berries and carbonated water. Says Macarena: “Last New Year’s Eve, I came upon the idea of serving pink, non-alcoholic cava and the idea really took off; these days, diners tend to order at least one glass when they have a meal.” Wellness, youth and a lithe figure are the things we all dream of and, ideally, we should take the time needed to start to achieve this (at the very least, a one-week programme is recommended). However, Healthouse is also the ideal venue for those after a day of pure, unadulterated relaxation and satisfaction. The knockout spa area, treatments and food, make Healthouse a place for any time of the year, when we consider it a good day to love and treat ourselves to something magical.

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thepro NEWS /ENTERPRISE / LOCAL BUSINESS

/PROFILES / FINANCE / LAW

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

HOSPITEN ESTEPONA TURNS 10

Hospiten Estepona recently turned 10, giving its staff plenty of reason to celebrate. The team has attended to over 889,941 patients and overseen 3,310 deliveries. The Hospital has various specialists in ﬁelds such as Gynaecology, Cardiology, Paediatrics, Internal Medicine, Urology, General Surgery, and more. Hospiten is also proud to announce that it has received the highly sought-after QH Accreditation, a reflection of its excellent service and its focus on safety. i www.hospiten.com

AUSBANC ABOGADOS RECOVERS OVER €30 MILLION IN FIRST HALF OF 2015

Ausbanc Abogados is proud to announce that it has recovered over €30 million for its clients in the first half of this year, winning a plethora of important cases covering issues like multi-currency mortgages, abusive commissions and swaps. Despite the effectiveness of the organisation, hundreds of thousands of people affected by unfair mortgages and financing arrangements do not fight for their rights. Don’t be one of them; if you are the victim of unfair practices, see the professional team at Ausbanc. i www.ausbanc.com

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SIX SENSES SPA OPENS AT THE PUENTE ROMANO HOTEL

Marbella's Puente Romano Hotel always likes to stay at the top of its game and nowhere is this more present than in the way it is constantly innovating. In July, the new Six Senses Spa opened, featuring a stunning design comprising delicate tile work, oak flooring, arches and domed rooﬁng. Relax with a wide range of health and beauty treatments that will leave you looking and feeling great, from head to toe. i www.puenteromano.com

TAYLOR WIMPEY SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH LA CALA GOLF HOTEL & SPA

British Promoters, Taylor Wimpey, have signed an agreement with La Cala Resort in Mijas, creating a new alliance which will involve an investment of €21 million and give rise to 700 job posts in the area in the next ﬁve years. Some 48 apartments and 55 semi-detached homes will be built and marketed to the international public, who will no doubt be attracted by La Cala’s three golf courses, luxurious hotel and well-appointed spa. i www.lacala.com

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FUN HAPPENINGS AT OCEAN CLUB MARBELLA

Ocean Club is one of the hottest places to be spotted at during the summer and, this year, the team have really pulled out all the stops, with a string of fun events that will keep you on your toes. Every weekend, French breakdancer, Joe Danseur, will be offering dynamic performances, which take the deﬁnition of strength and grace to new levels. Ocean Club will also be offering a brand new summer menu (featuring sushi, light summer dishes and satisfying ﬁsh and meat dishes), as well as signature cocktails created by World Champion Mixologist, Mario Hofferer. Additionally, those seeking a bit of pampering can enjoy a wide range of massages and beauty treatments at the brand new Relax & Beauty Centre. Fashion lovers, meanwhile, will enjoy shopping at the boutique, featuring desired brands such as Melissa Odabash, Pain de Sucre, Vitamin A and many more. i www.oceanclub.es

SYNERGYM OPENS IN MARBELLA

The Synergym Group is continuing with its rapid plan of expansion, with its new gym in Marbella, located at C/Juan Ramón Jiménez, 8. The gym was founded by Leonard Lvovich and Sergey Miteyko, who arrived on the Coast to open 15 gyms in a period of two years. Synergym boasts two gyms in Málaga and one in Mijas, and in September, two more will be launched (in Málaga and Estepona, respectively). Clients can look forward to a wide array of classes and top-of-the-range equipment. i www.synergym.es

TENNIS & TRAINING – SUMMER CAMP 2015

If you don’t know how to keep your kids entertained this summer, why not join the Tennis & Training Summer Camp, to be held at the Club Internacional de Tenis? The camp is for children aged three to 16 and features tennis and ﬁtness classes, games and matches, and art classes and drawing. A hearty breakfast will also be served. From 9am to 1pm daily throughout August. g CN340, km 173.5, El Rodeíto, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 675 587 461.

PÍA RUBIO AT THE KASSER RASSU GALLERY

Pía Rubio, a prestigious specialist in ‘Arts of the Table’, brings her magic to Marbella once again, at an exhibition to be held at the Kasser Rassu Gallery from August 4 to 14. Pía’s Guest Artist is Joy de Rohan Chabot, a multi-disciplinary Artist who expresses her talent in materials as diverse as iron, wood, glass or aluminium. Pía will be showing off her most special dinner sets, decorative pieces and tableware. Her collection includes work by Alberto Pinto, Herend, Marie Daâge, Raynaud, Royal Copenhagen, among many others. i www.piarubio.es

STARPOOL WELLNESS AT THE STONE GALLERY

The Stone Gallery recently presented the new SweetCollection by Starpool Wellness at its Marbella showroom. The highlights of the presentation included the SweetSauna and SweetSpa booth. SweetSpa Starpool cabins have four different regenerating treatments. Each features a different 15-minute steam bath: toning (chocolate based), relaxing (mandarin based), cleansing (with dead sea mud) and excite (with salt and dead sea mud). Awarded the RED DOT design award, the cabins ﬁt into any environment. At the event, Technogym also presented ﬁtness products: the elliptical Crossstaff (designed to keep you connected when exercising) and the Wellness Ball Active Sitting (which increases strength, coordination and balance while working out the abs and aiding weight loss). i www.thestonegallery.com 130 / AUGUST 2015 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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Kids from the Han Language School of Marbella Ace YCT Test

Chinese is definitely the ‘it’ language to learn these days, with children of all ages signing up to learn the intricate yet beautiful art of Mandarin in its written and spoken forms. A group of youngsters from Yìng Yìng Xu’s Han Language School of Marbella recently braved the official YCT exams, held by the Hanban Confucius Institute, affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education. Yìng Yìng’s pupils passed with flying colours, achieving the official YCT certificate. Congratulations to Alexia, Rocío, Pavel, Cristobal, Ignacio and Eneko. g If you think you would like to learn Chinese

or your kids are up for a fun challenge, give Yìng Yìng a call on Tel: 686 876 446. Hantutor@gmail.com

Rolex Launches its new Cellini Collection at The Red House jewelLery boutique in Gibraltar

Prestigious watchmaker, Rolex, recently chose The Red House to launch the brand new Cellini Collection. The new Cellini models will be exhibited in a special interior and exterior display until the fifth of August. This is the first time that the new Cellini Collection will be available in Gibraltar. Great news for lovers of beautiful and classic watches. i www.rolex.com

Showjumping and Dancing Horses at the Escuela de Arte Ecuestre Costa del Sol

The Escuela de Arte Ecuestre is always one of the most happening places on the Coast for lovers of the equestrian arts but it recently raised the bar further by hosting a well-attended National Showjumping Championship, comprising some of Spain’s best competitors and members of the Royal family. On August 8, the school will be delighting spectators with a beautiful Horses & Music show, featuring graceful horses dancing to Andalusian choreography. i Tel: 952 808 077. www.escuela-ecuestre.com

Local Crowned Miss Reino Unido Latina 2015

New Virtual Reality App by Lexus

Lexus is proud to announce that it has a brand new App which, when used in conjunction with the new Oculus Rift headset, the VR Google Cardboard visor or the virtual reality streaming function of YouTube, allows you to experience the emotion of driving the Lexus RC F during a high-speed race at the Ascari circuit in Marbella. If gaming is your thing and you feel the need for speed, this App is definitely up your street. i www.lexusauto.es

UK-born Sacha Lester was recently crowned Miss Reino Unido Latina 2015 and will represent the United Kingdom in the Miss América Latina del Mundo pageant in Mexico this coming September. Sacha is the sixth representative from the United Kingdom in history to participate in the Miss América Latina del Mundo pageant. The coronation was preceded by an evening of fashion and salsa presented by Russ Whelan and Dani Ramirez Vigo from Fusión Radio to a mixed crowd of Spanish and local expats. i www.missamericalatina.com

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BASTIEN GONZALEZ PEDI: MANI: CURE STUDIO OPENS AT THE HOTEL BAHÍA KEMPINSKI ESTEPONA

If you would like your nails to look their very best this summer and indeed all-year-round, head for the new Bastien Gonzalez Pedi: Mani: Cure Studio, recently launched at the Hotel Bahía Kempinski Estepona. The ﬁrm has over 16 studios worldwide and only two in Spain. Founder, Bastien Gonzalez´s award winning products and highly trained team have transformed the nailcare industry, with many experts referring to his work at ‘The True Pedicure’. i www.kempinski.com

PERMACULTURE COURSE IN ENGLISH AT ARBORETUM MARBELLA

Arboretum Marbella, the award-winning permaculture project in Andalucía Spain, is holding a Permaculture Design Course from October 9 to 22 and Co-Founder of Transition Town Totnes, Naresh Giangrande, has been conﬁrmed as one of the trainers. He will be part of a multidisciplinary team of professionals and international educators who will teach pupils about the nature of permaculture and how to apply it personally and professionally during a comprehensive 112hour course, certiﬁed by the British Permaculture Association. i www.arboretumpdc.org

PIONEERING TECHNIQUE FOR PULMONARY EMPHYSEMA AT THE QUIRÓN HOSPITAL IN MARBELLA

The Head of the Pneumology Department of the Quirón Hospital, Dr. José María Ignacio García, recently carried out the ﬁrst procedure in Spain for the treatment of emphysema via the coil implantation technique, which aims to improve lung function and quality of life in patients, without the necessity for surgery. Coil implantation takes around 30 minutes and is carried out using general or deep anaesthesia. i www.quiron.es

HOLLAND & BARRETT OPENS IN MARBELLA

Renowned health store, Holland & Barrett, has opened its second store in Málaga in the heart of Marbella, opposite the Alameda Park. The new shop offers health buffs a wealth of Vitamins and health and beauty products, as well as tasty treats for those after a boost of energy. i www.hollandandbarrett.com

LIGISMOND ART GALLERY OPENS IN MARBELLA

The Ligismond Art Gallery recently launched in Marbella with a well-attended cocktail and exhibition by French Artist, Thierry Ligismond, featuring a selection of drawings, sculptures and oil paintings. Ligismond is an outstanding bronze sculptor who creates limited editions (no more than 12 pieces). He has exhibited his work in a host of countries, including Switzerland, the USA, France, China and England. i www.ligismond.com

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PROTECT YOUR PREMISES AGAINST THE SUN WITH PROTECSOL

If you are keen on reducing the energy consumption in your home or ofﬁces, why not consider Protecsol solar protection? Protecsol employs top-of-the-range technology to enable you to enjoy comfortable temperature indoors, similar to what you might achieve using air conditioning, but without the associated costs. i www.protecsolmalaga.com

COLECCIÓN RÍMON PRESENTS POP MEETS CALLIGRAPHY EXHIBITION

Colección Rímon gallery on the Golden Mile recently launched its latest event: the Pop Meets Calligraphy Exhibition, featuring a display of works by renowned artist, Screen Prince. The works are modern, fun and ﬁlled with beautiful calligraphy, a true testimony to the power of words and imagery. g Urb. Marbella Real L23 (next to

Pan y Mermelada), Marbella. Tel: 952 771 364 / 660 019 581.

SUMMER COCKTAIL FOR LEXLAND LAWYERS

Lexland Lawyers held a summer cocktail in collaboration with the British Chamber of Commerce, which was attended by Partners and Senior Managers of top real estate and construction agencies, banks and tourism and hospitality corporations. Lexland Lawyers is a full service legal ﬁrm with professionals who are able to advise clients in over 10 different languages. i www.lexland.es

FUNDRAISING FOR CUDECA

Cudeca has kept busy as usual, in an effort to enable the cancer hospice to continue lending its ‘special kind of caring’. The organisation recently opened a new shop near the Plaza de la Merced in Málaga, and joined in the celebrations at the Mijas-US Friendship Day. Cudeca was pleased to receive an amount raised by Liz Marsh, who walked the Caminito del Rey in memory of her friend, Christine Watson, who had been cared for at Cudeca. i www.cudeca.org

STARLITE PRESENTS EXHIBITION FEATURING 17 ARTISTS

The Starlite Festival has always been associated with the biggest names in music and now, some of the world’s best artists are joining in, with a special joint exhibition entitle Deslocalización, which will be open for viewing at the Cantera de Nagüeles from July 7 to September 7. The new art area has been designed by Héctor Ruiz Velázquez, who sought to respect the natural beauty and Mediterranean spirit of the area. i www.starlitemarbella.com

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Aloha College Speech Day and Sporting Achievement

Aloha College celebrated the end of the academic year with a traditional prize-giving and graduation ceremony for students completing years six and 13. Students were given the opportunity to share their academic, sporting and personal achievements with their parents and the wider community. Additionally, children shined in the sporting arena, with those from the Alevín and Benjamín categories finishing champions at the Torneo de las Estrellas. i www.aloha-college.com

Lawson

GMF Megagig

An electric line-up of pop and rock legends for this year’s Gibraltar Music Festival will see summer out with a bang. Now in its fourth year, the two-day gig is the most star-studded yet. Eccentric retro singer Paloma Faith, ska supremos Madness and the cosmic Kaiser Chiefs will join Nashville rock heroes Kings of Leon and Eighties icons Duran Duran on stage at Victoria Stadium on September 5 and 6. Irish folk duo Hudson Taylor, exuberant dub funk band Dub Colossus, Kristian Vinales (DJ Set), Jeremy Perez & Tom Stott, Headwires and Guy Valarino have also been announced. Ahead of launching their new album, superstar Spanish duo Estopa will headline the Radio Gibraltar Stage for their only show of the summer. GMF is a family-friendly, affordable and easily-accessible music festival in the sunshine, rolling a holiday and some of the world’s biggest acts into one incredible weekend. i www.gibraltarmusicfestival.com

Celebrations for the American Clubs of Benalmádena and Marbella The American Clubs of Marbella and Benalmádena celebrated the birthday of the United States on the 4th of July. The Clubs gathered over 100 Americans from the Coast along with members and friends from other nationalities. They enjoyed a magnificent lunch at La Alcazaba in Mijas Pueblo, prior to the official opening of the event at the main square. The Foreigners Department in Mijas Pueblo additionally celebrated friendship day with USA on this important date for Americans on the Costa del Sol. The Town Hall organised two days of festivities, featuring music, dance, traditional dishes, games and more.

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DANESA

La revista danesa en España / Det danske magasin i Spanien

JANUAR 2013

NORSKE Det norske månedsmagasinet på Costa del Sol

Det

magasinet

S PA N I E N F Ö R S V E N S K A R

Sesongen er godt i gang på Europas sørligste skisportssted, Pradollano i Sierra Nevada.

Et ægte boutique-hotel

De vinder mere og mere frem, særligt i de europæiske storbyer, og nu også i de spanske. La Danesa har studeret det hippe boutique-fænomen.

Mandesnak hos Mærsk

Torben Gram forlod sit job i Danmark til fordel for et liv i Spanien uden på forhånd at have arbejde, bolig eller kendskab til sproget.

• Intervjuer • Nyheter • Utflukter • Sport • Fakta • Kultur • Profiler • Politikk • Mote • Helse • og mye mer...

Jacob Haugaard er tilbage

La Danesa har mødt manden, som den 17. februar besøger Kysten med sit show ”Jacob – Solo”.

Spanske barn møtte Karius & Baktus

Siesta - myter og realiteter

Nesten 200 spanske barn og deres foreldre fikk nylig sitt første møte med de norske tanntrollene Karius og Baktus.

Du trodde kanskje at siestaen var en så inngrodd del av spansk kultur at ingenting kan rokke ved den. Tro om igjen!

Loja - en blomst blant torner Loja ligger 60 km vest for Granada, og det var selveste Isabel la Católica som i 1486, da byen overga seg til de kristne, kalte byen en blomst blant torner – “flor entre espinas”.

JANUAR 2013

Ecológico

Med inspiration hentet i Spanien og i Wien har Kirsten Vaupel begået sin første roman, og kan nu tilføje titlen forfatter til rækken af kulturelle hverv på sit farverige visitkort.

El Mercadillo

Les mer om aktiviteter på Costa de Sol i ¿Qué pasa?

Kirsten Vaupel debuterer med roman

Tomatkrig, vikingeslag og tyreløb, religiøse optog, pilgrimsfærd og menneskepyramider er blandt højdepunkterne på Spaniens kuriøse, kulturelle kalender.

Januari 2013

Sesong i Sierra Nevada

• Interviews • Nyheder • Bolig • Finans • Udflugter • Sport • Fakta • Kultur • Profiler • Politik • Mode • Helse

Kuriøse fiestas año 2013

sueco

Fler och fler upptäcker kustens kanske hälsosammaste marknad

Utflykt

El Escorial tronar på minnen om makt och historia.

Motor

Trike – trehjulingar för vuxna.

Resa

Läs ett vykort från Aten.

Profil

Lennart Lundquist är mannen bakom Internetsidorna Svenskar i Spanien.

Golf

Det nya året inleds med stora rabatter.

THE PRO hotel

THE NEW DOUBLETREE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RESERVA DEL HIGUERÓN

by Hilton Resort & Spa Reserva del Higuerón

Reserva del Higuerón is a luxury urbanisation in the Benalmádena/Fuengirola area comprising a hotel, residential apartments and villas, a beautiful sports club, various restaurants and of course, the stunning Nagomi Spa, famed for its circuit pool and relaxing treatments for the face and body. Known for its top-of-the-range facilities and situated just a short drive away from the sea, the company has raised the bar even higher, since its fourstar Hotel is now part of the prestigious Hilton chain.

he change is the result of an agreement reached between Hilton and Reserva del Higuerón at the last Internationale Tourismusbörse Berlin (ITB Berlin). The DoubleTree by Hilton brand is the fastest-growing group in the world, with more than 400 properties in 34 countries, and is approaching 45 million users under its Hilton-HHonors programme. The Costa del Sol is set to become the first location in Europe – and one of only two worldwide – to boast a child-free resort and spa by the Hilton Worldwide chain. The Hotel is modern, spacious and cosy and just a few minutes from the airport or the Málaga city centre, yet conveniently close to the beach and nearby shops. It boasts elegant areas like its Infinity Terrace, centred around a sky blue infinity pool that lends the impression that one is floating in the sky. The idea, says General Manager, José Navas, is to offer a uniquely relaxing experience for adults, where the silence is broken only by chill-out music and pleasant

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conversation with friends and loved ones. Those who prefer the refreshing sea air, meanwhile, can simply hop of the Resort train, which makes various trips to the beach every day. The Hotel boasts 177 rooms, 24 of which are Junior Suites and all of which afford spectacular views over the Bay of Fuengirola. The interiors are ultra modern and the rooms are ﬁtted with inviting furniture pieces dressed in cool tones like cream, beige and coffee. Gourmets will ﬁnd many temptations to stay in during their visit to this Hotel. At the lobby the new Coffees and Teas of the World entices one with its aroma, while the elegant Al Rolo serves designer tapas, Mediterranean favourites and treats from its new Elements menu. By the outdoor pool, La Higuerita offers light snacks and tapas overlooking the manicured gardens. The Palmeral Buffet is ideal for those seeking a hearty dinner after an energetic day at the Sports Club, while Sollo, brainchild of Diego Gallegos (named

Newcomer of the Year at Madrid Fusion 2015) is on the cards for its first Michelin star, according to those in the know. Gallegos serves only river fish and fish roe dishes, within an elegant setting abounding with maritime imagery. Golf is another attraction at the resort; some of the leading golf clubs in the area – Torrequebrada Golf, Mijas Golf, Santana Golf, Chaparral Golf, Cabopino Golf, Rio Real Golf and Los Naranjos – have added even greater value to the move by agreeing to join Hilton’s supply services. The resort has developed a range of unique packages to suit all tastes, including competitive offers from the golf courses and new services specifically designed for Hilton clients. DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Reserva del Higuerón has truly earned its reputation as a standard bearer, with a 12,000m2 Sports Club that is frequented by serious tennis and paddle tennis players alike. The ample gym contains top-of-the-range equipment and there are a host of fun activities to keep fitness buffs in tiptop shape, including TRX and Pilates. Personal training is also a hotly solicited service. The Resort is rightly famed for its tennis, paddle tennis

and swimming schools. The indoor pool, kept at a deliciously warm temperature, allows swimmers to do a few laps regardless of the weather, and of course, after all that work, nothing quite beats a jet massage at the Nagomi Spa’s spacious circuit pool. The Spa has an excellent treatment list which includes body wraps, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and much more. If a party is on the horizon, head for the salon to have your hair styled or pamper yourself with a mani-pedi. It is an exciting time indeed for the Resort, with Navas noting, “Our association with the Hilton brand reflects our passion for service and providing a comprehensive resort life style experience.” Indeed, the Reserva del Higuerón team has worked incessantly to update all facilities, while The Collections homes have enjoyed great sales, owing to their enviable location and views. The time is right for the Higuerón group to reach for new heights and they seem to have found the secret to success, offering guests an experience that is fun, dynamic yet very laidback, where there are so many areas to investigate, get lost in and relax, that it is always easy to ﬁnd one’s personal piece of Paradise.

g Avda. Del Higuerón 48, Benalmádena. Tel: 951 505 101. www.reservadelhigueron.com

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THE PRO people

To a lot of people law is a dry subject devoid of emotion and excitement. To Luis Pineda Salido it is the exact opposite, and as President of Ausbanc he has shown why on many occasions.

LUIS

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

PINEDA SALIDO

A man with a mission T he law is exciting to Luis Pineda Salido and his colleagues at Ausbanc because it is the key to improving society by addressing its ills and rectifying them. “We may not be able to cure diseases or solve hunger, but the legal system is the only viable tool available to resolve important issues and problems, be it on a public or on a personal scale,” says the President of Ausbanc. Borne out of political and societal consensus, the judicial system provides the framework within which we strive to create a just and fair society for all. “It provides the guidelines through laws and constitutions, which produce a social contract for all of us to abide by in our personal and professional lives,” says Luis, “but when individuals or organisations cross that line they are sanctioned and punished because it is believed that they are breaking the rules and therefore harming the greater good.”

Legal Professionals with a Mission Unfortunately this happens all too frequently, and when it concerns issues such as fraud, corruption, misrepresentation and embezzlement, Ausbanc is there to step in. A rather unique organisation,

it is a voluntary collective of legal and financial specialists founded in 1986. As a result, Ausbanc (or the Asociación de Usuarios de Servicios Bancarios) is private and without funding from third parties, be they public or corporate. “This ensures our independence and integrity,” says Luis, “and makes it possible for us to stay true to our founding principles.” The more than 100 lawyers and fiscal and financial experts in 30 offices across Spain – including Málaga and Marbella – are therefore far more than a simple grouping of colleagues. “You mustn’t confuse us with a large single legal firm or franchise organisation. Ausbanc has a very clear mission and that is to defend consumers and businesses from bad or unfair practice in financial services. The professionals that join it therefore do so because they believe in this mission and want to be a part of it, not because they feel they are obliged to or stand to gain from it.” That said, the prestige of the organisation has reached the point where it certainly doesn’t hurt to be associated with Ausbanc, especially if you are a young legal or financial professional looking to make your mark. “Our track record is

impressive,” concedes Luis, “but that is as much down to our passion and belief as in the skilled teams we have working both here and abroad.” Having defended thousands of large and small businesses, as well as groupings of individuals and consumers in general, and having achieved remarkable landmark rulings on their behalf against banks, financial institutions, corporations and fraudulent individuals, Ausbanc has also come to be viewed with a great deal of respect by its traditional ‘adversaries’. But as Luis stresses, “We have no adversaries. In fact, we also work together with banks, financial entities and large corporations to resolve issues before they go to court or consulting them on issues such as consumer value in their product offering, transparency in their dealings, the effectiveness of their self-regulating procedures and the clarity of their wording towards clients.” He says this to emphasise the fact that, while it fights on behalf of those wronged by the ‘system’, Ausbanc is not a belligerent organisation. “Our mission is not to be against anyone in particular, but to fight for good corporate and financial practice, and help those that are victims of incompetence, fraud or misleading information.”

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“Our mission is not to be against anyone in particular, but to ﬁght for good corporate and ﬁnancial practice, and help those that are victims of incompetence, fraud or misleading information”

Ausbanc sees one of its key contributions as informing the general public of their rights and obligations in a manner that is clear and devoid of the legal/financial double-speak often designed to confuse and discourage detailed reading by consumers and clients. “For this we have a media division dedicated to providing information that is intelligent and authoritative but written so that those not in the profession can understand it too.” The second pillar of Ausbanc’s main activities is consulting businesses on good practice. “We assist businesses setting up, expanding into a new field of activity or outside of their cultural and geographical area, with regulations, paperwork and also financing, so we also bring the banks business.” The latter, among other corporates, can also be clients on whose behalf Ausbanc analyses regulatory procedures, product offerings and also that its communication with clients is clear and transparent. “However, our ethos does not allow us to take on clients that are in conflict with our founding ideals,” says Luis, “and believe me, we’ve had some offers, including in Marbella.”

At the Vanguard of the Legal Profession Where the profession at large waits to be approached by its clients, this rather unique organisation not only rallies behind those that come to it for help, but it also monitors potential problem areas and acts as an early-warning watchdog. “Again, the only thing we are interested in is good practice and avoiding abuses where possible. To be honest, the legacy of the past years has for a long time kept us too busy dealing with a large volume of cases to be able to look ahead, but recently we have returned to that role with gusto, and this is necessary because, as the economic situation improves, the temptations of bad ﬁnancial and business practice get stronger too.” This desire to scan the landscape for potential

Luis Pineda with guests at the recent Ausbanc Gala at Hotel Villa Padierna

abuses has led to some of the most important of the thousands of cases brought and won by Ausbanc. “We prefer to resolve to both parties’ beneﬁ t rather than taking cases to court,” says Luis, “but when we do we very much prepare for victory, and it shows in a success rate that anyone would be proud of.” Indeed, Ausbanc has won well in excess of 90 per cent of the cases it has fought, and achieves this not just by having top people in their profession who do their homework and know the law. “Laws are guidelines that we must follow, but they are open to the interpretation required to look at each individual case within its own unique context. What we can do is relate to similar cases and rulings, or the principle of jurisprudence, and this can affect the outcome of a legal case.” It means that it takes more than simply knowing and quoting the law to win a case. “Exactly, if there was no interpretation we would simply have machines that would give an automatic response to the information inputted, not judges, so if we believe in a case we build a winning strategy around the facts.” Among the groundbreaking achievements of Ausbanc, which also has ofﬁces in London and Miami, are rulings that have stopped banks from rounding commissions upwards, forced them to show what they are about to charge you at an ATM or for your credit card and made it impossible for car parks and telephone providers to round payments upwards. One of the most important was the abolition of the Clausula Suelo, which set a

minimum rate for variable mortgage repayments. “This was one of our proudest moments because it is estimated to have saved one million people from losing their homes during the crisis,” says the man who personally led the project. Not quite an ombudsman as it is an independent organisation, Ausbanc has however become a powerful advocate of consumer rights and good practice. Highly respected and indeed feared by those with a reason to, it leads the way in working to ensure a more level playing field in consumer, financial and banking matters, representing companies and the private offices of wealthy investors just as it does small businesses and individuals with limited resources. “For us it isn’t who you are or what you do, but the fact that you need advice, support or representation if you are the victim of fraud, incompetence or manipulation,” says Luis Pineda Salido, President of an organisation at the very vanguard of the legal profession. i www.ausbanc.com

g MARBELLA OFFICE Avda. Ricardo Soriano, 34, Edif. Portillo P, Oﬁcinas 2º 6. Tel: 952 900 531. marbella@ausbanc.com

MÁLAGA OFFICE Alameda Principal, 45 -1º A. Tel: 952 060 120. malaga@ausbanc.com

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THE PRO events

Exclusive Interview with

TONY HADLEY OF SPANDAU BALLET Lovers of great music are queuing up for what promises to be one of the highlights of the Summer: Spandau Ballet, live at the Puente Romano Tennis Club, on August 21. Marisa Cutillas speaks with Tony Hadley, the talented crooner whose voice is, quite simply, one in a million…

ongs like Gold, True and Communication may be part and parcel of the soundtrack of the life of anyone who grew up in the 1980s, but few fans probably understand the extent to which one very special group of lads from London made musical history. Spandau Ballet was much more than a Number One pop group with great expectations; it was the symbol of the intellectual rise of London youth during the poverty-stricken Thatcher period. The group, whose origins can be traced to the underground cultural manifesto born in clubs like Billy’s and Blitz, were symbolic of the creativity and lust for freedom which found its outlet ﬁrst in the Punk Movement, then in electronic music, New Romanticism, and soul. The band’s single, True, remained at Number One in the UK for four weeks, and in 21 other countries for a similar time frame. At the time, the lads (Tony Hadley, brothers Gary and Martin Kemp, Steve Norman and John Keeble) were around 20 years old.

Spandau Ballet has had many ups and downs, having famously broken up in 1989 owing to problems between Gary Kemp (composer and guitarist) and other band members, which eventually led to a highproﬁle court case. Gary’s brother Martin, torn between his brother and friends, suffered the most, yet somehow managed to maintain a good relationship with all parties. It was quite a challenge to get the band together again after such bitterness; it all began with the Kemps approaching Steve Norman (saxophonist, guitarist and percussionist), Gary’s childhood friend from school. Some band members were keener on a reunion than others. Tony Hadley admits, “It took ﬁve long years for me to grow accustomed to the idea of getting back together.” Ultimately, he says, “it is about having fun like we used to when we started,” forgetting old gripes and concentrating on making beautiful music together.

Spandau Ballet recently released a fascinating documentary, Soulboys of the Western World, the true story of their rise to fame, their bitter conflicts and, inevitably, the sweet resolution that came in 2009. The band announced their reunion aboard the HMS Belfast, the site of one of their earliest and most legendary gigs. The reunion was long in the making, but very much desired by fans (their ﬁrst comeback concert at the London O2 arena was sold out in a matter of 20 minutes). Spandau Ballet hasn’t stopped since, touring the world and promoting their new greatest hits collection called The Story – The Very Best of Spandau Ballet and sharing their fascinating story with the world. After their Marbella gig, they are fully booked for the upcoming months in the UK and, following that, in Italy, with Tony Hadley working on a new Christmas album for the festive season. We speak to the best voice in soul about the band’s beginning and bright future…

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the band. It was a very unpleasant time and there was a lot of tension between us. Yet again, that’s the story with bands and if not for our rows and our break-up, we would never have made the documentary and we would never have got back together. What was it like to work together after so many years apart? It was very difﬁcult because our fallout had been so acrimonious. It took a lot of soulsearching but I’m so glad we did get back together. We toured in 2009-2010 and are doing so again in 2015. Things are pretty chilled and we’re playing better than ever.

What role did artists like Bowie play in your desire to become a musician? As a lad I originally wanted to be a surgeon though I realised that since I had dyslexia, I probably wasn’t going to make the grade in mathematics. The ﬁrst album I ever owned was given to me by my uncle. It was The World of David Bowie; it completely knocked me out. I would save up my pocket money and buy records by Queen, Elton John, TRex, Marc Bolan… I really started getting into music at the age of 13 or 14, signing up for different competitions. When I was 16, we formed a band at (grammar) school.

When did you start feeling like you had made it? In 1980, when we signed our first record deal (with Chrysalis Records). Even now, 35 years later, I still think, “Wow! That was amazing!” From the album came our first hit single, then the advent of MTV really brought our music to the whole world. Suddenly, there were 15-yearold girls screaming at us… the thing is, we never took it too seriously. I remember when we first appeared on Top of the Pops, we didn’t even have a roadie! We lugged all the equipment onto the stage ourselves.

What professional training did you have as a singer? I trained with (Opera Singer), Pamela Dodds for two years; she taught me how to preserve my voice, how to extend it and where to get more body and depth. I also sang in my school choir.

Were the 1970s and 1980s as glam as they appeared? Actually, on TV, everything seems much bigger than it is... I remember that the set on Top of the Pops was actually very small. We thought it ﬁt hundreds, yet there were only around 50 people there and they ﬁlled the studio.

How did you hook up with Gary, Martin, Steve and John? We weren’t the best of friends at school; I simply heard they needed a singer and I volunteered. We’ve been together since 1976… that’s a really long time. I think we just had a common purpose. Our solidarity was based on a common aim. Gary and Steve were good friends but the rest of us just loved music and decided we wanted to pursue it with a vengeance. What role did the club culture play in your lives? Billy’s and Blitz on a Tuesday were a big part of our youth; we would spend hours, days, working out what to wear on Tuesdays. Those clubs gathered many artists, designers, musicians and they saw the ﬁrst beginnings of Spandau Ballet. We never aimed to be a teen band; we started out as a cult band, an electronic music band.

How long will you be on tour? Until the end of September, though we have loads of festivals booked in the UK and Italy. I’m also recording a solo Christmas album. In August, we’ll be performing at the Porta Ferrada Festival on the 18th, at Ibiza Rocks on the 19th and Marbella on the 21st. We’ll be playing all our hit songs plus a whole new electronica section at a two-hour show. It’s going to be lots of fun… see you there! e

You often say the True tour in the 1980s was the happiest time of your life… There were several happy times. Our ﬁrst album did fantastically and we were just a group of young lads trying to take over the world. The second album was not very pleasurable for me. I really wanted to leave the band at that stage. By the time True came out, we were very relaxed. We had found the right level within the band and we started to feel very comfortable with where we were and where we were going. g Tickets for Spandau Ballet live at Tell me about the album, Heart Like a Sky… That was our last album before the split. Even before its release, things hadn’t been good between us. We kind of imploded at that point; that album took too long to make and when we were recording it I vowed it would be my last with

the Puente Romano on August 21, 2015 are available at FNAC, Carrefour, Halcón Viajes and El Corte Inglés (www.elcorteingles.es), as well as on Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.es). Ticket hotline: Tel: 664 475 590.

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THE VIBE

Chocrón Joyeros Shines in Marbella Exclusive jewellery firm, Chocrón Joyeros, officially presented its Marbella boutique to the public at a well attended cocktail event at the Hotel Villa Padierna Palace. Members of the jetset enjoyed a magical evening in an enviable setting, socialising with a bevy of celebrities, including Genoveva Casanova, the ‘face’ of the firm. i www.chocronjoyeros.com

“Big girls need big diamonds” – Elizabeth Taylor

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THE VIBE

Ausbanc Gala at Hotel Villa Padierna Palace Ausbanc Abogados recently invited clients, dignitaries and members of the press to a gala-concert evening at the Hotel Villa Padierna, featuring an emotion-packed performance by Pitingo. Ausbanc has been riding high, having recovered millions of euros for its clients already this year. i www.ausbanc.com

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

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THE VIBE

Twin-Set Launches in Puerto Banús The lively Muelle de Ribera formed a fittingly elegant backdrop for the launch of new fashion boutique, Twin-Set, on the frontline of Puerto Banús. The brand specialises in casual and evening wear, as well as gorgeous accessories, lingerie, beachwear and much more. i www.twinset.com

“Fashion looks better when you feel good on the inside” – Anonymous

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THE LEISURE travel

Into the Blue

The World’s Best Beaches

There is no time like the summer to grab your copy and let the stunning visuals whisk you of away to the azure waters of the world’s top beaches. Our ‘best of the best’ list, compiled by Marisa Cutillas, invites you to leave your cares behind and hop on a plane, into the blue…

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Whitehaven Beach

the Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia

No-one can doubt that Whitehaven Beach merits its place, year after year, on the world’s most renowned Best Beach lists. Its soft silica sands and aqua waters stretch over seven kilometers along Whitsunday Island, the largest of the Whitsundays’ 75 islands. For a top view, check out the Tongue Point lookout and enjoy the dazzling fusion of colours that takes over the sea. For sunbathing, head to Hill Inlet, a romantic cove where the tide gently lifts the sands, creating a mix of colours that have yet to be recreated on the artist’s palette. Don’t leave Whitehaven Beach without booking a helicopter or seaplane flight over Hill Inlet, to watch the famous dance of sand and water from above…

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Baia do Sancho

Brazil

This romantic beach, which embraces an island in the northeast of Brazil, was recently named Best Beach in the World on TripAdvisor. It scores highly for a number of reasons: exclusivity (the beach offers unique privacy), quality (the sands are enviably soft and the waters, a bright emerald green) and stunning coral reefs (where you can enjoy an entertaining snorkelling adventure). Baia do Sancho is notoriously difﬁcult to access, which is perhaps an added reason for its appeal to more adventurous tourists. One has to climb down a rickety ladder through a rock wall, walk through a narrow crevasse and climb down another ladder, and then negotiate a few uneven steps, to get to Paradise. Anyone who has ever been there will undoubtedly tell you that the effort is well worth it.

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Playa Paraiso Beach Cayo Largo, Cuba

The deep blue waters, white sands and swaying trees make this beach comparable to the world’s very best beaches in terms of the aesthetics, but it is a particularly excellent stop for families, since the sea is calm and shallow and the atmosphere, deeply relaxing. The beach is dotted with palm umbrellas, and there is a lively bar where you can cool down with a tall glass of freshly squeezed juice or (why not?) a cool daiquiri or margarita. Nude bathing is allowed (though generally conﬁned to the eastern sector of the beach), so it is easy for families, couples and singles alike to ﬁnd their perfect spot.

Grace Bay

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Grace Bay is one of the best loved of all Turks and Caicos’ amazing beaches, its fine stretch of sand spanning a little over 19 km, from Leeward town to Thompson Cove. It is part of the Princess Alexandra National Park, so Nature conservation is high on the agenda (no jet skiing or water skiing are allowed). Make the most of the magnificent sea life by snorkelling at Smith’s Reef or Bight Reef (where you will find graceful corals and colourful schools of fish swimming by). Simply lying on the soft, cream-hued sands and taking a dip in the turquoise waters, are two of the most fulfilling activities at this beach, but if you’re keen on exploring more of Turks and Caicos, sign up for an island hopping tour, or dive into an in-water whale encounter…

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Waipio Valley Beach Big Island, Hawaii

This beach stands out for its absolutely unique colour scheme. It is graced with ﬁne black volcanic sands, deep indigo waters and 600-metre cliffs, which are kissed by romantic waterfalls and covered in a deep, rich green rainforest. The beach is very hard to access (you have to hike or drive down a treacherously steep road) to reach it, though the wildly romantic escape is worth every effort.

Playa de Ses Illetes

Formentera, Spain

Dubbed Spain’s ‘Most Fashionable Beach’, Playa de Ses Illetes is located on Ibiza’s more ‘chilled-out’ sister island, Formentera. The beach is part of the Natural Area of Special Interest of Salines, and its under-water sea grasses (known as posidonia meadows) have been declared Human Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The beach can be easily accessed on foot or by car. It is particularly favoured by those who like to bathe nude. Free of all garments and trappings, it is easy to feel like one has been born into a dreamlike Paradise where the waters are transparent, cool and calming.

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Boracay The Philippines boasts no less than 7,000 islands, bearing resorts with a reputation for offering some of the best ﬁve-star service in the world. While the busy city of Manila is usually the ﬁrst stop, island paradises like Coron (Palawan) or Boracay are a short flight away. Better yet, luxury accommodation and service can be enjoyed at enviable prices, often half or less of what you would expect to pay for top rated service in the Caribbean or in Europe. In the Philippines, Boracay’s White Beach is universally hailed as one of the best hands-down. Unlike some of the quieter beaches on the usual top ten beach lists, Boracay is as much a party haven as it is a relaxing oasis, where snow white sand is married to pure, crystalline waters which embrace you in their sunny warmth.

Anse Lazio

The island of Boracay is divided into four different zones; enjoy a fun tricycle ride and explore the island, with its plethora of bars, restaurants and shopping areas. The dining offer is superb too; make it a point to visit one of the local markets, where you can purchase your choice of freshly caught ﬁsh and seafood, and have it cooked at one of the many nearby restaurants. Boracay is also a great choice for those who like active holidays. Try diving off Ariels Point Cliff, or spend the day snorkelling, diving or kite/ windsurﬁng. By night, enjoy the buzzing nightlife and party until the sun comes up, knowing you can always head to White Beach to catch up on some R ‘n’ R the next day…

Praslin, Seychelles

This beach wields a beauty you would expect to ﬁnd only in the visionary mind of artists like Gauguin or Seurat. Boasting jagged, burnt orange-hued granite boulders and cliffs, swaying palm and takamaka trees, deep blue skies and glittering soft sands, this island is a dream come true for lovers seeking the perfect honeymoon destination. The beach is long and wide and the waters, shockingly blue and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Despite its wild natural beauty, the beach is close to fantastic restaurants (The Bonbon Plume and Le Chevalier will whip up the perfect seafood meal for you) and there are many nearby natural areas to visit, including Curieuse Island (another snorkelling paradise) and the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, with its stunning tropical forest, housing flora you won’t ﬁnd anywhere else in the world. e

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THE LEISURE hotel

A Night out at

PLAZA VILLAGE Marbella’s Most Happening Spot As I step down from the elegant reception of the Puente Romano Hotel into its iconic famous Plaza, my eyes are graced with the splendour of hundreds of tiny lights hanging from the trees surrounding the ancient Roman bridge, testimony to the grandeur and vision of one of the greatest Empires of all time… the square has witnessed some of Marbella’s most elegant soirees, the jetset, Champagne ﬂute in hand, toasting to the success of many events and sporting competitions in the presence of many of the world’s top athletes and celebrities. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

he Plaza is also home to Suite, nighttime playground of the elite, whose colourful cocktails, sparkling dresses and Gatsby-like crowds take it into a league of its own. The Puento Romano may be situated in the heart of the Golden Mile, but it is also a frontline beach hotel, the powdery sands just a ﬁve-minute walk from the Plaza itself. In April this year, something magical took place: the launch of Plaza Village, a swish new dining area that would give couples and families a reason to head for the Puente Romano any evening of the week, regardless of whether or

not any events are taking place at the Hotel. Daniel Shamoon and his team revealed that they are no less than true visionaries, bringing some of Marbella’s best and most established restaurants to the elegant Plaza. The hot new spot boasts a fantastic layout: four restaurants offer terrace dining, while one (Seraﬁna) remains on the ground floor. All offer views of the stunning bridge and surrounding foliage, for nobody should have to give up the majesty of this unique architectural wonder while enjoying a magniﬁcent meal in the company of friends and family.

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The atmosphere at Plaza Village was buzzing during my recent visits to Uni and Thai Gallery, which you may have read about in our restaurant review section. There is a unique, very appealing blend of diners – families, couples, young partygoers stopping for a pre-dinner. The eye tends to rove from the square itself (which boasts a grand bar and seating area serving chilled mojitos and the like), upwards (to the restaurants). Choosing one establishment to dine at in Plaza Village tends to be difficult, but it is probably best to opt for the cuisine you most feel like on the day, for every restaurant merits repeat visits. At the foot of the square is Serafina, a modern Italian restaurant dreamed up by Marco and Carlo Morelli, serving authentic Italian cuisine, washed down with a superb selection of wines. The restaurant, whose elegant interiors are graced with stunning black and white photographs of celebrities, architectural wonders and important personalities from the past, serves excellent meat and fish dishes in addition to pizza, pasta and beautiful handmade desserts, making it an ideal stop for the whole family. The restaurant also boasts outdoor dining, so you can enjoy the best of the balmy summer evenings.

The upper terrace houses one of the most powerful quartets on the local culinary scene: Bibo (Dani García’s tapas restaurant), Dani García (highlighting the Chef’s unique ability to blend tradition and the avantegarde), Thai Gallery (serving traditional Thai cuisine created by Executive Chef, Noom), and Uni (the restaurant everyone is talking about, serving Nikkei – a blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine). If you’re feeling peckish, why not start out at Bibo? The restaurant boasts a homey, relaxed ambience and interiors marked by a plethora of wood furniture, bright, colourful features (such as baby blue and yellow chairs and retro details in the wallpaper, lighting and cutlery) and an attractive array of books and home décor pieces which add warmth and familiarity. The restaurant serves tapas with a twist (try their unique reinterpretation of Eggs Benedict or their mouthwatering meat dishes, made in an olive wood burning stove or grilled over oak wood), as well as its own Raw Bar and Oyster Bar. Tuna freshly delivered from Barbate, freshly made cold soups and a plethora of healthy yet incredibly flavourful salads make this establishment ideal for those who want to stay healthy without losing out on the flavour quotient.

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g Opening times Bibo: Open daily for lunch and dinner. Tel: 951 607 011. Dani García: Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Tel: 952 764 252. Serafina: Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Tel: 952 820 900. Suite: Open Thursday to Saturday. THAI GALLERY: Open nightly for dinner. Tel: 952 818 392. Uni: Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Tel: 952 820 900. i www.puenteromano.com

Right next door is Dani García, famed for its cocina de autor, where contradición reigns supreme during an unforgettable dining experience that shows how avante-garde techniques can breathe new life into traditional Andalusian recipes. García’s tasting menu, Once Upon a Time, features a contrast of hot and cold and an interplay of unique textures and diverse yet highly pleasing flavours. A meal at this restaurant has been described as a gastronomical journey into the unknown, no less than can be expected from a Chef who has garnered his restaurants two Michelin stars. Thai Gallery needs little introduction. The dreamchild of dynamic culinary duo, Lincoln Lo and his wife, Ping, the restaurant is a product of the couple’s decades-long experience heading restaurants the calibre of Tai Pain and Sukothai, in London and on the Coast. Everybody knows that this is the place to go to for authentic Thai food, and Chef, Noom, shows that despite his great respect for tradition, he is more than capable of surprising us with new delights like the Thai Gallery Chicken (a red curry dish featuring chicken breast stuffed with prawns and rice) or the Surf ‘n turf, with its huge juicy prawn served over a tender entrecote and Thai noodles. Thai Gallery

always offers a flavour explosion, thanks to an array of herbs and spices like galangal, lemongrass, cilantro, ginger, garlic, chilli… Finally there is Uni, whose sister restaurant in London (in Belgravia) has received guests like Prime Minister David Cameron and the former King of Spain (King Juan Carlos). Nikkei is the very latest buzzword on the international foodie scene. Expect to enjoy an amazing tenderloin tataki (coated with caviar), a tender butterfish sashimi (drizzled with lime and Peruvian chilli) or a to-die-for tuna tartare, bearing a blend of sweet and citrus flavours. Uni offers one of the best views of the bridge below and the interiors are an absolute joy for lovers of design. The bar, with its modern water lighting effects and comfy sofa seating areas nearby, make enjoying a meal inside just as appealing as dining under the stars. When you visit, make sure to ask the lovely staff for a mojito (served with a gigantic red chilli, enough to add a little zing to the equation). Don’t end the night just yet; have a drink at the bar and brace yourself for a non-stop night on the dance floor at Suite. From Wednesday to Saturday, Plaza Village also features live music by popular group, Gitanes. e

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met

RESTAURANTS / REVIEWS / NEWS / WINE / CHEFS / GUIDE

Dining outdoors is what most appeals in the summer and we bring you an edition packed with scrumptious seaside goodness. Take a plunge to the edge of infinity at the Finca Cortesín Beach Club, enjoy fine dining by the sea at TikiTano and discover what fires the imagination of Chef, Ladislao Comins of Les Cubes.

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167 Finca Cortesín Beach Club 169 TikiTano 170 Food News 172 Kevin Woodford’s The Maldives 174 Chef’s Profile: Ladislao Comins of Les Cubes 176 Wine: Great Wines to enjoy with Fresh Fish 178 Wine: Bodegas Liba y Deleite

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AT THE PLAZA VILLAGE IN THE HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

Puente Romano Hotel, Blv. Principe Alfonso Von Hohenlohe, Marbella. www.thaigallerymarbella.com

Tel: 952 818 392

TAI PAN chinese cuisine polynesian bar

Serving Marbella in a Select Atmosphere for Decades. Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500 Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella. Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00 www.taipanmarbella.com

SUKHOTHAI Exquisite Royal Thai Cuisine

Tel: 952 770 550 Open Mon-Sat. C.C. Marbellamar, L-3A. Marbella. www.sukhothaimarbella.com

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restaurant THE GOURMET

FINCA CORTESÍN BEACH CLUB Celebrating the Freshness of the Sea WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

inca Cortesín, with its elegant hotel, luxury spa and demanding par 72 golf course, has no doubt raised the bar for high-end tourism on the Coast, its stunning whitewashed construction and cobblestoned streets whisking one away to the breezy glamour of the Andalucía of the past. In addition to offering ﬁve-star service in its renowned Hotel, the Finca is also famed for its gastronomic offerings. Kabuki Raw (serving ﬁne Japanese cuisine), El Jardín de Lutz (a haven for lovers of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine) and Don Giovanni (with its emphasis on Italian tradition and produce) are just a few reasons to make the half hour trip to Casares, though during the warmer months, an ideal way to spend a full day, is the Beach Club, serving the freshest seafood and rice dishes in an enviable location.

The 6,000m2 Beach Club, run by Executive Head Chef, Lutz Bösing, and Beach Club Chef, David Rubio, is smack bang on the seashore of the pristine Bahía de Casares, with it sparkling waters and powdery sands. A black water infinity pool, overlooking symmetrical palm trees and rows of thatched parasols, invites you to spend the day lounging and working on your tan. Teak wood flooring, cool verdant gardens and comfy Balinese beds make for a serious escape from the stresses of daily life and best of all, the Club can be visited by external guests as well. During my recent visit to the Beach Club with a friend, the day was warm and sunny, so fish was definitely on our agenda. We sipped on cool cocktails while flicking through the menu, which as is to be expected, has a wide selection of dishes to suit all moods. We tucked into a variety of freshly

caught fish dishes, which displayed a respect for fine produce as well as a keen understanding for the different ingredients that bring out the very best in everything from sardines to a hearty gilthead. We began with a cool ceviche, served with diced mango and tiny chives, complemented beautifully by a tangy sauce containing freshly squeezed orange juice, and served in the interior of a fresh coconut. Next up were the boquerones – fresh and warm and served with slivers of garlic and crowned with crunchy deep fried fish, a true homage to the chiringuito dining culture that makes the Coast so special. The sardinas a la moruna, meanwhile, cooked in a soul-soothing tomato sauce with red and green peppers, bore a pleasantly sweet flavour. Dining by the sea seems incomplete without a deeply fried fish treat and we were tickled pink by the rose-hued salmonetes, such a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect with a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The ultimate dish for fish lovers,

g Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Tel: 952 897 296. www.ﬁncacortesin.com

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as we all know, is the fish of the day oven-baked in salt and the Chef didn’t disappoint, with a beautifully plump dorada a la sal filleted and served at our table, all eyes upon the magnificent treat. The fish was fresh, perfectly salted and healthy tasting, ideal for those who feel like a satisfying yet light meal. For dessert, my companion and I shared a creamy arroz con leche, served in a glass and bearing a passionfruit crème that added a whole new dimension to this classic Spanish dessert. We also tried the chocolate tart, rich and made with top grade dark chocolate, served alongside a scoop of refreshing sorbet. We decided to make a full day of it, watching the sun set over cocktails and enjoying the colourful sight of groups of families and friends relaxing by the tempting pool. Finca Cortesín has tapped perfectly well into the laidback splendour of chiringuito dining, taking it to a whole new level with market fresh produce, stunning décor and a gem of a swimming pool by the sea.

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restaurant THE GOURMET

Over the past years Tikitano has become a landmark in its own right, known above all for its richly ambient seaside location overlooking a particularly attractive sweep of the coastline. Newly reformed and reﬁned, today’s Tikitano Restaurant delivers this exquisite setting with a fresh ﬂavour.

n many ways Tikitano needs little introduction. However, for those of you who haven’t yet visited this pretty stretch of the New Golden Mile, situated roughly halfway between San Pedro Alcántara and Estepona, it is highly recommended to do so, for at the point where the luxurious urbanisations of Cabo Bermejo and Torre Bermeja meet is a lovely section of coastline complete with an ancient watchtower and an archaeological park. It is here, right on the water’s edge, that you will ﬁnd what has become one of Marbella’s most iconic restaurants. Tikitano is known for this privileged setting, from where the eye follows the curve of the coastline towards Gibraltar, but also for its iconic Polynesian-style architecture. Naturally this includes not only a thatched roof but also the charming exterior styling that comes with it – which ﬁts right in with the surrounding greenery. Inside, however, new owner the Besaya Group has made some changes. The restaurant has been refurbished, receiving an updated interior décor that adds a sense of contemporary

style and sophistication. Together with a refreshed menu and sense of purpose it makes for a new-style Tikitano experience.

Elegant Dining by the Sea Popular from the morning through to the evening, the main focus of the restaurant is understandably upon its large wooden-decked terrace with the lovely views of the Mediterranean. This is especially true of the summer months, when the Polynesian-style structure shows its versatility and effortlessly opens up to let the interior and outdoor areas blend into one. As the sea breeze adds a cooling cadence to the air, often aided by live music, you have the choice of enjoying a drink at the stylish bar, relaxing in the outdoor lounge or dining inside or out. Either way the experience is decidedly al fresco, with soft currents of air accompanied by those mesmerising views. For many, this is one of the most perfect spots on the Costa del Sol to watch the

sun set, and not surprisingly Tikitano is also a very popular choice for romantic dinners and even wedding parties. And why not, with the beach and a park on your very doorstep the ingredients are already on hand. So as day turns to evening and the lights begin to twinkle along the shoreline, tracing its curvature like little stars, Tikitano is a wonderful spot to ﬁnd yourself for dinner.

Mediterranean Inspiration The menu reflects international influences but quite understandably draws inspiration from the restaurant’s setting on the Mediterranean. Meat and seafood dishes are well balanced, but naturally the true foodies will feel encouraged to try the ﬁsh delicacies on offer here. Classing ourselves as such, we chose to sample gambas pil-pil from the rich shores of Huelva, where some of the best ﬁshing in Andalucía is done, a lovely dish of ‘almejas’ clams in traditional Andalusian bouillon, and one of the restaurant’s mainstays, the Tikitano

style tuna tartare. The latter has all the delicacy required to make a truly good tartare, building on some of the finest tuna in the world, as found in the waters off the Costa de la Luz. We picked a Chardonnay to accompany it and stayed with the 2011 Pago de Cirsus the whole night. Not surprising, perhaps, as this full-bodied but refreshing white is an award-winning wine much lauded by the experts. It also served us well as we partly crossed over into meat territory for the main courses, which consisted of a delicious grilled tuna tataki, a fine roasted baby chicken coquelet with sautéed potatoes and a slow-cooked leg of lamb on a bed of couscous. If that was perhaps a touch wintry on our part, the desserts most definitely weren’t, consisting of a crisp Fuji apple tatin with refreshing Granny Smith ice cream, a crème brûlée with frosted strawberries and a selection of ice creams and sorbets. A delightful evening out in any season, Tikitano is an experience not to be missed in the summer – that is, if you enjoy balmy breezes and wonderful coastline views!

The new-look

TIKITANO WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

g Urb. Guadalmansa, Ctra. Cádiz km 164, 29680 Estepona. Tel: +34 952 798 449. info@tikitano.com www.tikitano.com

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THE GOURMET news

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Joan Roca Vs. Child Hunger Joan Roca, Chef of Celler de Can Roca (recently proclaimed Restaurant Magazine’s Best Restaurant in the World) has now joined forces with the Restaurantes Contra el Hambre initiative, set up by Acción Contra el Hambre. Some 700 restaurants took part in the programme in 2014, raising €125.000 to combat child hunger, with the help of their clients. Joan Roca is the ofﬁcial ‘Godfather’ of this year’s initiative, which will run from September 15 to November 15. All diners have to do is select at least one ‘solidarity dish’ from the menu and the restaurant will donate between €0,50 and €2 to Acción Contra el Hambre. i www.accioncontraelhambre.org

Starbucks

Opens Two New Stores in Marbella

International visitors know that a Starbucks coffee is always a guaranteed hit and the good news is that the chain has opened two new venues on the Coast: one at El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús, and the other at El Corte Inglés Capricho, Marbella. Lovers of the ﬁnest blends in the business can enjoy their favourite cuppa, snack or sweet while checking their emails or chatting with friends. i www.starbucks.com

La Canasta Opens in Marbella Ambrosía Gourmet Market Now in Puerto Banús

Ambrosía Gourmet Market Marbella is a brand new gourmet market at La Alzambra in Puerto Banús, offering customers the chance to taste a selection of products and purchase deli items from various brands at a reasonable price, while enjoying a calendar full of fun cultural and gastronomic events. The Founders of Ambrosía are looking to raise the bar for the food and leisure industry, with 14 stalls dedicated to national and international products, including wine, cheese, Spanish ham, croquettes, rice dishes, cocktails, various specialties from Japan, Italy and Thailand, and much more. i www.ambrosiamercadogourmet.es

Popular bakery, La Canasta, is one of the Coast’s best loved places for sweet and savoury pastry, bread and more and the good new is that a new branch has opened in Marbella, at the Parque Alameda. Foodies will ﬁnd a host of yummy snacks, light dishes, coffees and juices, in addition to items to take home. La Canasta is also an ideal choice for those after the perfect birthday cake. i www.lacanasta.es

Celicioso Gluten Free Bakery, Food

and Drinks at the Puente Romano Hotel

The commercial gallery above the trendy Plaza Village food court is now home to a brand new haven for gluten-free eaters: Celicioso, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as cocktails, from 10am to 12am. In addition to cakes, cupcakes and cookies, diners will ﬁnd an array of savoury dishes, juices and drinks, all made without gluten. The restaurant also has a takeaway service. The Hotel Puento Romano Beach & Spa Resport now has a total of nine restaurants, making it a true Mecca for ﬁne dining on the Coast. i www.puenteromano.com

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THE GOURMET

KEVIN WOODFORD’S

Essential The Maldives PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HUVAFEN FUSHI

I A pop group called Amen Corner once sang, ‘if paradise is half as nice as heaven that you take me to, who needs paradise’. Now I always thought that those lyrics related to a love story, that was until I visited the Maldives. This amazing island nation, situated in the Indian Ocean/Arabian Sea, consists of a double chain of twenty-six atolls.

f the perfect holiday for you means totally switching off from the stress of modern day living in a luxurious environment, then the Maldives is the place. There are a myriad of hotels that will not only satisfy your desire for peace and tranquility but will also offer gastronomic excellence. My favourite is the Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi, which in the local Maldivian language means ‘Dream Island.’ The experience begins from the moment you arrive in the capital Male and are transferred by speedboat for the 20 minute ride to the resort. As with all luxury hotels, there’s a great choice of room styles. However, if its ultimate luxury and space that you fancy, then like me you should choose CUBE. Set on the oceanfront within its own stunning garden, it has an impressive lounge and kitchen on the ground floor. Upstairs is home to an impressive master suite and two further bedrooms. For the energetic guests there’s a BBQ in the garden courtyard which is also home to your own private swimming pool. So if skinny dipping is your thing then your privacy is assured, unless of course your personal butler gets a glimpse of you while

stocking up your mini bar! Now if you’re a regular follower of my column you’ll know that when it comes to destinations and food I tend to feature a restaurant which is separate to the hotel. However with Per Aquum Huvafen Fushi the opposite is the case. This is the place where you can literally kick off your shoes for the duration of your stay and, without leaving the hotel, enjoy a wide variety of fabulous food and the only time you need your Jimmy Choos is just prior to checking out! With four different restaurants to choose from, gastronomic boredom is most deﬁnitely not part of this vacation. Raw, with its innovative menu of healthy dishes with an Eastern twist, was one of my favourites. However, for the ultimate dining experience the Island Chief Dinner, at which your personal chef and sommelier present you with an evening of stunning food and ﬁne wines served in a wine cellar eight metres under the sea is impressive, especially as its home to over 6,000 exquisite wines. If romantic dining is called for then you simply could not improve on the option of ‘destination dining’. You simply tell them whereabout on

the island you’d like to dine and they’ll make it happen – whether it’s right on the edge of the ocean, a table set on the outer limits of the inﬁnity pool or even on the edge of the reef. However, if you don’t want to actually blow the budget, it’s a good idea to opt for the half board option. You will still have an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. But be warned: with its soft white beaches, turquoise sea and ‘tame’ stingrays, no future holiday will ever quite match up to it.

g Kevin is an Internationally

renowned chef, former Head of Department for one the UK’s most prestigious Colleges of Higher Education and more latterly one of the BBC’s most versatile television presenters, having presented Holiday, Ready Steady Cook, Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook, Big Kevin, Little Kevin, Planet Cook, The Heaven & Earth Show and a host of other network shows. He was the recipient of a National Television Award and the subject of This is Your Life and acts as a consultant to several International Hospitality Companies. Kevin Woodford is also a Presenter at BBC Watchdog.

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THE GOURMET profile

Ladislao

Comins

of Les Cubes

Ladislao Comins bears an Italian name, hails from Alicante, and has called the United States and France, his home. Still, his idea of the perfect place to live is Marbella, a town that attracted him since he first took up the challenge to work as Executive Chef of what is bound to be a Mecca for chic diners this summer: Les Cubes. WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS Photography kevin horn

Innovation in Style, Tradition in Flavour

he frontline beach venue is open from morning to night, so you can always pop in for a midday or pre-dinner drink, or, better yet, an exquisite meal. To Be or Not to Be is the drinks and lounge area, boasting a lovely bar peppered with cubic structures and serving up an impressive range of wines and cocktails. Kalinka Malinka is the area between the joyful bar and elegant C’Est La Vie; it opens from 1pm to 8pm for lunch and dinner, serving designer tapas and informal meals, an ideal jaunt for friends meeting up for a quick bite. C’Est La Vie is the most formal of the three areas, where Ladislao and his team serve up mouthwatering international dishes made with the very best produce from across Spain. Says the Chef: “We very much aim to be a zerokilometre establishment, though ultimately, it is all about sourcing the very best produce. Our red prawns hail from Denia, our seafood from Galicia and our meat from Galicia and Pedroches. Our ham, logically, is sourced from small, top quality producers.” Les Cubes serves marketfresh fish and seafood, including

classic favourites like seabass, grouper and the most Malagueño of all fish: the rosey-hued salmonete. The Chef easily becomes engrossed when it comes to talking about ingredients, and is he is no less than thrilled at having been given total freedom to select all the components of his appetising dishes. Ladislao always knew he wanted to be a Chef; fortunately, his passion for cuisine was matched by his interest in travel. At the tender age of 16, he set sail to London for a year and, after completing his culinary studies, honed his skills in France. The Chef specialises in creative cuisine bearing familiar elements: “Ultimately, a meaningful dining experience should enable diners to connect with flavours and aromas they have known and loved since they were children.” Touches of magic add a different look or fresh new taste to tried-and-tested dishes, which pique our curiosity as much as they whet the appetite. Ladislao’s star dishes include a tempting ceviche made with butterfish and served with corn pancakes and salmon caviar, a

perfect instance of Nikkei fusion. The free-range duck ham salad is also proving to be immensely popular, as is the bacalao brandade with parmesan, or the prawn carpaccio with foie. Such combinations make for lovely sensations which may be unique, but which complement each other perfectly. The Chef gives me the grand tour of the three spaces that make up Les Cubes, showing me impressive wine refrigeration units (one for white, one for red) and a generous collection of cheeses. Whether a tangy Roquefort or a mild Camembert tickle your fancy, you will definitely meet your match here. Choose from over 30 different cheese varieties from all over the world. Les Cubes is a venue marked by a respect for tradition, but also a passion for experimentation.

“We carry out five or six cooking experiments every week; we seek to create, innovate, and change with the seasons, so that regular clients always have something new to look forward to.” Dynamic, inquisitive and engaging; these are the words that best describe a Chef who is captaining what is bound to be a standard bearer for fine international cuisine by the sea. The romantic views, elegant yet cosy ambience and impressive selection of wines and tapas, make Les Cubes meritorious of its reputation as one of the coolest new spots to emerge in Marbella. g Open daily from 1pm ´til 2am. Urb. Oasis Club, CN340, km 183, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 396. www.lescubesmarbella.com

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J O U R N E Y

O F

F L A V O U R S

G A S T R O - L O U N G E - D R I N K S

Reservations Tel: 952 868 396 / 626 705 435 Email: reservas@lescubesmarbella.com Open daily 1pm - 2 am Oasis Club, C.N. 340 KM 183, 29602, Marbella www.lescubesmarbella.com

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THE GOURMET wine

Great wines to enjoy with fresh fish

Those who work outside the respective trades of wine, gastronomy and publishing may be forgiven for thinking that our glamorous employment always involves copious glasses of wine (we actually spit out at wine-tastings), cooking delicious food (try going to a fish market at 5am for the raw material) or visiting modelshoots, plush restaurants and exotic locations for articles (ever dealt with pushy PR staff?). WORDS Philip Bomber Harris

thought of the mismatch of perceptions when doing research for this article, because the brief looked comparatively straightforward. This was banished by talking with María José Sevilla, head of ICEX, who when asked for a few recommendations answered: “It all depends on the sauce…” Although fond memories of excellent meals were recalled, a far more prosaic view was achieved via a concerted trawl through a wide variety of cookbooks. However, many books, particularly the European ones, were intensely patriotic in style and therefore solely promoted wines from within certain boundaries. In a previous article that I had the pleasure of writing for , namely on food and wine pairing, I felt that in order for the consumer to be best served, particularly in those countries with a proud and long heritage of viticulture, an element of regionalism would have to be

ditched. At the risk of repetition, I return to the theme, while remaining within Spanish borders. Fish will appear in many different categories: oily (mackerel, salmon, eels), large (shark, swordfish, tuna), shellfish (scallops, squid, clams), flatfish (sole and turbot), crustaceans (crab, langoustine, lobster), roundfish (cod, monkfish, John Dory) not to mention global variances: Mediterranean, Australian, New Zealand, American and Atlantic. Without describing the myriad of versions with which these can be paired, it is worth remembering a few guidelines: 1 Oily fish and aromatic wines do not match. Restrain from using the up-front-style of a Sauvignon blanc or a Verdejo, and enjoy something that might appear to be more restrained, such as a Viura from Rioja or Rueda, Penedes (called Maccabeo), or Txakoli from any of the increasing number of vineyards within Euskadi.

2 This rule also applies to Crustaceans, particularly crab, lobster and carabinero. Anything with a modicum of mousse, roe or brown meat (crab) will be far better suited to a more neutrally aromatic wine. However, all of these possess a rich character that deserves to be matched. Think of wines from Valdeorras, Ribeiro and Galician blends, featuring grapes such as Godello, Treixadura, Louriero, Doña Blanco. Chardonnay from Somontano, Penedes or Navarra would work with both categories 1 and 2. 3 Shellfish: Albariño, Loureiro and Treixadura from Galicia. Txakoli from Euskadi. As the Spanish preparation tends to be simple steaming or grilling, less is definitely more when matching great raw material with local wine. 4 Large fish: not so much the size but the texture dictates. These are quite meaty and chunky, to which members of the roundfish family can be added. Look at wines from Cataluñya, namely the Garnacha Blanco blends of Priorat and Montsant, or the more obscure Montonega grape, rescued from extinction by Lluis Figueras in his iconic Cataluñyan ‘+500 brand’. Rosado from Rioja, Navarra, Penedes and Somontano would work too. 5 Mediterranean fish: Bream, sea bass, mullet with hake as an honorary member (more Atlantic but respected far more by the

Spanish than the British). This is probably the most versatile of the groups and the one that, along with large fish, may involve more elaborate preparations of sauces, purées and spicing. Given the flavour combinations that might be on show, no panacea can be found. However, bear all the previous guidelines in mind and then decide with which element you choose to match the wine. Generally regions/ grapes mentioned in categories 2 and 4 should suffice. Barbecuing/grilling fish does not alter the intrinsic character. A mackerel will still be oily, swordfish or tuna remains chunky, flatfish such as plaice or turbot will be obliterated. You may well have to match the heightened intensity of the charcoal flavour to your wine. Category 2 applies again, although oaked (therefore richer) versions of category 3 come into play. Do not overlook/forget Sherry. Perhaps this should really be the No.1 Guideline: Chilled Manzanilla or Fino from the great Bodegas such as Hidalgo, Lustau and Valdespiño are not just great marriages with seafood but have the character to override any of the caveats laid out in the article. Were this article about smoked rather than fresh fish, include dry and aged Amontillado in the equation, although I think it could match the charcoal of a barbecue. If none of the above suit, enjoy a chilled beer. Happy summertime! e

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THE GOURMET wine

BODEGAS LIBA Y DELEITE Presents First Wine Aged in Spanish Oak

If you are passionate about Ribera del Duero and Toro wines, chances are, you are already familiar with the excellent wines crafted since 1992 by Bodegas Liba y Deleite.

Wine maker with a vision: Maite Geijo

his Spanish-owned company grows its vineyards within the land of two Denominaciones de Origen (D.O.s): Ribera del Duero and Toro. Some 80 hectares of bountiful

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grapes produce over 300,000 bottles annually and the Bodega is building a growing reputation for the quality of the wine it produces. Bodegas Liba y Deleite is the ﬁrst winery in Spain founded by sommeliers, whose many years of experience garnered them a keen awareness of consumers’ tastes. After years of research, testing, analysis and countless tasting sessions, the Bodega brought the ﬁrst wines in the world aged in Spanish Oak Barrels to the market; these are the most emblematic of their wines and have received excellent reviews both nationally and internationally. Maite Geijo (Owner and CEO of the company) states: “The Spanish Oak, Quercus Petraea, lends the wine a special aroma similar to roast coffee

or freshly baked bread. It is far more pleasant than aromas obtained from other oaks.” Maite approaches winemaking with dedication and great professionalism. She heads a talented and highly experienced team, who ensure that the earth is well tended, the land is ploughed by mules and percheron horses according to time-honoured traditions and the harvesting time is exactly right. Speed of transport is also important; the company ensures that the shortest possible time elapses from when the grape is picked until it is placed into vats for fermentation. Bodegas Liba y Deleite believes in the value of innovation and surprise, as is evident in two of its bottles: the Acontia Verdejo 100 per cent, and its La Vie En Rose rosé, both of which are excellent choices at this time of year. The Acontia Verdejo 100 percent is aged for seven months with yeasts from the Toro area and from the area of Champagne. The wine is pale greenish in hue and boasts an intense aroma with hints of pineapple on a background of citrus and elegant floral notes. It has been described as exotic and fruity, full of silky volume, fresh and bearing a long after-taste. La Vie En Rose is a rosé bearing the Toro D.O. Its grape content comprises 75 per cent Tinta de Toro, 15 per cent Garnacha and 10 per cent Verdejo grown in a 15-year-old vineyard on the Finca Las Ocas property.This is a pale, strawberry pink coloured wine, clear and bright. It expresses its elegant fragrance, strawberries and currants, and its passage through the mouth is fresh, round and cheerful. e

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theguide RESTAURANTS / CINEMAS / GOLF

Price guide per head for a three-course meal with wine

RESTAURANTS

GYMS / TENNIS / SCHOOLS

under €25

€25 – €40

Yanx

AMERICAN

Open from 9am Monday to Saturday and Sunday from 11am for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 861

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces, esq. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 024

ARGENTINEAN

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

Jacks Open seven days a week from noon till late. Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625, Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 563 673

Mr. gourmet burger Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening. Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 257

ROUTE 66 Open 10am until midnight every day. Plaza Antonio Banderas 17/29, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 136 333

Buenos Aires South

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Virgen del Pilar, 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 779 297

el banco Open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to midnight. Urb. Aloha Pueblo, Local 35, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 907 570

€40 – €60

€60 plus

BELGIAN El Coto

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Ronda (El Madroñal), San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 786 688

mytilus Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos, Puerto Sotogrande. Tel: 956 790 212

FRENCH Casa mono

Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 11pm. C/ Calderón Estébanez 19, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 578

Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 132.2 Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 791 200

GREEK Red Pepper

Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

GRILLS

Asador Criollo Grill Open nightly for dinner. CN340-A7, km. 166, Cancelada, El Saladillo. Tel: 952 784 463

Asador guadalmina

gauchos

le bistroman

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village. CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 897 744

Open daily for lunch and dinner. El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmina Alta, C.C. Guadalmina, Local 3, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 883 003

ruta 40

Valderrama Restaurant

cabaña nagüeles

Open from 9am to 12 midnight daily. C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda. Tel: 951 133 737

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner only and on Sunday for Buffet Lunch. Apartado 1,

Open Monday to Thursday from 11am to 2am and on Friday and

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Saturday from 11 am to 3am. Urb. La Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 083

El Carnicero Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Pueblo Viejo Cancelada. Between San Pedro & Estepona. Tel: 952 886 307

El Carnicero 2 Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 867 599

El Gaucho Open daily for dinner from 7.30pm. Galerías Paniagua. Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

El gaucho de banús Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle Benabola 9-11, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 167

el rancho del puerto Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Benabola 4, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 252

Grill del puerto Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Ribera 47H, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 686

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL Open every night for dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

Old Town Grill Open Monday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch. C/ San Lázaro, 3, Pza. Victoria, Marbella. Tel: 952 867 306

Restaurante Rancho Open daily for lunch and dinner. Ctra. Cádiz, exit Las Chapas. Tel: 952 831 922

The Grill House restaurant Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. C.C. Cristamar, Local 32, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 319 842

VOVEM

alberts

beckitts

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Odeon, Locales 9-10, C/ Las Yedras, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 003 434

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino. Tel: 952 836 886

Open Monday to Sunday for dinner. C/ Camilo José Cela 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 898

alumbre

Besaya Beach

INDIAN

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Strachan 11, Málaga. Tel: 951 500 022

Jaipur palace

Amanhavis

Open every night except Tuesday for dinner. CN340, km 194, next to Camping Cabopino, Marbella. Tel: 951 310 004

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday from 8.00pm. Calle del Pilar 3, Benahavís. Tel: 952 856 026

Open Monday to Thursday for lunch, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. Urb. Coral Beach s/n, km 176, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 299

Jaipur Purple

ambrosia

Open daily for dinner. CN 340, km. 166, Estepona. Tel: 952 888 353

Open daily from 9am ‘til late. Avda. Álvarez Quintero 20, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 310

Massala Open daily for dinner. 57, Duquesa de Arcos (Sabinillas seafront). Tel: 952 897 358

Mumtaz Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Casa No.7, P. Banús. Tel: 952 812 090

INTERNATIONAL 11&11 Restobar

Open Monday to Thursday from 7pm ‘til late, on Friday and Saturday from 1pm to 4pm and from 7pm ‘til late and on Sunday from 10am ‘til late. Dársena de Levante, Local 39, Estepona Port. Tel: 951 703 060

Al Rolo Open from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm daily. At Reserva del Higuerón. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 661 174

Albert & simon Open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Friday and for dinner only on Saturday. Closed Sundays. Urb. Nueva Alcántara, Edif. Mirador, Bloque 4-B, Marbella. Tel: 952 783 714

amigos

BIBO Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday afternoon and all of Monday. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 951 607 011

Black and white Marbella

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday. C/ Málaga 3, Benahavis. Tel: 952 855 175

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle Benabola, under the Torre de Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 607

aroma

bono’s beach

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 23, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 665 502

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Cervantes s/n, Urb. Costabella, Playa El Arenal, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 236

baboo lounge and restaurant Open every day for lunch and dinner, closing Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 8pm. Ctra. Arroyo de la Miel, s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 902 102 675

Bahia beach Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 146.5, Casares. Tel: 951 704 884

Bar d’o restaurant & Lounge Open daily from 11am to 2am (3am on weekends). Avda. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, Edif. Milla de Oro, Local 567, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 229

beach house Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Coto de los Doles, Carril del Relojero, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 458

Brunings Kitchen continuously open Monday to Friday from 1pm to 11pm. Saturday – dinner only. Closed Sunday. Las Palmeras 19, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 786 156

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella. Tel: 952 862 149

Cafetería ke Open daily for lunch and dinner. P uerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, s/n. Tel: 956 790 333

cappuccino grande cafe Open daily for lunch and dinner. José Meliá s/n (Hotel

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Price guide per head for a three-course meal with wine Gran Meliá Don Pepe), Marbella. Tel: 952 868 790

Casanis

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

Tel: 952 811 716

Spa

Tel: 952 811 590

D-wine

Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 199, Miraflores Playa, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 587 550

Galeria San Pedro

Open every day from 6pm except Sundays. C/ Ancha, 8, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 450

Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C.C. Azalea, Edif. A, CN340, km 173, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 339 309

celima

El Bolero

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Hotel Hermitage, Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 895 639.

Open every night for dinner from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, CN 340, km. 127, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

cerrado del águila

Open every day for lunch. Open for dinner on Friday and Saturday. CN 340, km. 168, Estepona. Tel: 952 880 126

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Cerrado del Águila, Camino del Acevedo, s/n, Mijas Costa. Tel: 951 773 521

c’est la vie Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Paseo Las Palmeras, 15, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 783 394

cortijo fain

€60 plus

EL OLIVO Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. At Marbella Golf & Country Club. CN 340, km. 188, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 500 Open every day for dinner from 8pm-4am. Hotel Andalucía Plaza s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000

Fabiola

girasol Open daily for dinner from 6.30p.m. Avda. del Prado, Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 813 859

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. C/ El Pilar s/n, Benahavís. Tel: 681 294 442

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sundays for lunch. Cortijo Los Canos, Pueblo Nuevo de Guadiaro, CN-340, km. 132, Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 695 114 / 619 694 484

El Corzo

Finca Besaya

Open daily for dinner. Hotel Los Monteros, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 187. Tel: 952 771 700

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Rio Verde Alto, s/n. Tel: 952 861 382

El Campanario

EL CASTILLO

El Restaurante del Casino

EL GRAN GASTBY

Finca cortesín Beach Club

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle de Honor, Puerto Banús. Tel: 951 778 797

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Bahía de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 897 296

dani García restaurante

EL JINETE

Finca El Forjador

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 764 252

Open daily for dinner except for Friday. Ctra. La Cala Golf, km 45, La Cala de Mijas. Tel: 952 119 170

Open daily for lunch from 1-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday. Ctra. de Casares, km. 10. Tel: 952 895 120

El lago

fonda restaurante el postillón

Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Puente Romano. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

GD Gourmet deli marbella Open 9:30am to 9pm from Monday to Friday and Saturday from 12am to 6pm. Closed Sundays. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 774 049

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Algar, km. 3, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz. Tel: 956 704 131

del mar

Open from 11am until midnight. Closed Sundays. Avda Las Palmeras 15, San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 780 927

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Urb. Elviria Hills. Avda. Las Cumbres s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371

EL MIRADOR

Don Leone

Open for breakfast every day. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Resort. CN 340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Open every night for dinner. Puerto Banús, Marbella.

El oceano beach hotel Restaurant &

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:30pm to 11pm. Ctra. de Mijas, km. 1, A-387, Alhaurín El Grande. Tel: 951 254 520

funky tapas Open daily from 12 midday to 12 midnight. Avda. Miguel de Cervantes 34, Marbella.

hermosa Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm. Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino. Tel: 952 837 483

Herrero del Puerto Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Casas de Campos, 1, Málaga. Tel: 952 122 075

Horizon steakhouse Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Antonio Machado s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 560 094

hotel marbella club buffet Open every day for lunch. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 211

il mare Open every evening for dinner. Playa del Rodeo, Marbella. Tel: 951 319 372

karma Open every day from 10am until late. C/ Las Violetas

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7, Conjunto Andalucía Garden Club, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 815 736

LA biznaga Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for lunch only. Ctra. Ronda, km. 46, Urb. Las Medranas, local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 275 750

la brisa Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm. Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

La cabaña del mar

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Villa Padierna, Urb: Flamingos s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

Magna Café

La Verandah

Mc café

Open week days for dinner at 7:30pm and weekends for lunch and dinner, closed Tuesdays. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 136. Playa Guadiaro, Torre-guadiaro, Cádiz. Tel: 956 615 998

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n. Tel: 952 822 211

La veranda lobby bar

Open for dinner Monday to Saturday. Avda. Severo Ochoa, 12, Marbella. Tel: 952 864 895

Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C/ Calderón de la Barca, s/n. Tel: 952 929 578

Messina MOJO Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 8pm ‘til late. Monte Paraíso Golf, Marbella. Tel: 951 217 272

Open every day for lunch and for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona CN 340, km 159, Playa El Padrón, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

les cubes

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

mozaic

Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm. Closed Sunday. Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís. Tel: 951 318 815

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 6pm to 12am and for lunch on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm. Plaza Practicante Manuel Cantos 2, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 630

LA GRANADA DIVINO

los arcos

Miraflores Golf Restaurant

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday. C/ de las Piedras, Gaucín. Tel: 951 709 075

Open every night for dinner. Hotel Meliá La Quinta, Urb. La Quinta Golf s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 762 000

Open daily for Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 199. Urb. Riviera Golf. Tel: 952 931 941

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks. Hotel Villa Padierna & Flamingos Golf Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 166 (Cancelada exit), Benahavís. Tel: 952 889 150

los bandidos

NELI Gs

Open every night for dinner. Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 815 915

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Benavista, Estepona. Tel: 952 928 576

Los naranjos restaurant

nōmō brasserie

La Terraza Open everyday lunch and dinner. Golf Hotel Guadalmina, Marbella. Tel: 952 882 211

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Urb. Los Naranjos de Marbella. Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 816 105

Open for lunch and dinner every day except for Sunday. Bulevar de San Pedro, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 702 168

La Terraza

Macaoo beach

NUEVA CAMPANA

Open daily for dinner. La Cala Resort, La Cala de Mijas, Mijas. Tel: 952 669 000

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. C/ Jose Echegaray, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 113 618

Open daily for lunch and dinner, except Tuesday. La Campana, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 041

La Loggia

La Veranda

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Oasis Club, CN340, km. 183, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 396

LIMA

momo marbella Open Monday to Saturday from 6pm to midnight. C/ Tetuán 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 560 Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday. Urb. Las Chapas, Marbella. Tel: 952 839 901

ocean club

Open daily for lunch and snacks. Avda. Lola Flores s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 137

OCHO Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C/ Moncayo 12, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 460 232 / 648 502 822

oyarbide Open daily from 12pm to 12am. C.C. Guadalmina, Urb. Guadalmina Alta. Tel: 952 882 820

Palmyra Open daily from 9am ‘til late. Avda. Arturo Rubenstein s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 423

passion café Open for lunch and dinner every day. C.C. La Colonia, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 781 583

puente romano beach club Open daily for lunch. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

PURO BEACH Open daily for lunch and dinner. Laguna Village, Playa El Padrón, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 800 015

Restaurante royal Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Hotel Torrequebrada, Benalmádena Costa. Tel: 952 441 414

Rojo Open every day for lunch and dinner except Sunday. C/ Granada, 44, Málaga. Tel: 952 227 486

Sea grill At the Puente Romano Beach Club. Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 187, Marbella. 952 820 900

shanti-som – amrita Open Monday to Thursday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm,

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Friday and Saturday from 1:30pm to 4.30 pm and 8pm to 10.30pm. Ctra. de Ojén, km 22, A355, Marbella-Monda. Tel: 952 864 455

shiraz Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Puerto Deportivo, Local 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 334

Skina

Trocadero Entre dunas Open daily for lunch and dinner. Playa del Pinillo s/n (CEPSA exit next to Marbella Arch), Marbella. Tel: 608 100 945

Trocadero Sotogrande Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo del Parque s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 012

Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Friday and Saturday for dinner only. Closed Sunday and Monday. C/ Aduar 12, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 277

Venta garcía

SMALL WORLD CAFé

villa padierna club de mar

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ctra. Istán, km 1, C.C: Le Village 15, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 046

Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm. CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 647 791 515

smart café

zest

Open 8:30am to 8pm Monday to Friday and 9:30 am to 6pm on weekends. C/ Los Olivos 1, above the Enjoy Golf Academy in front of Aloha College. Tel: 690 001 045

Open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm and for cocktail hour from 4:30pm to 8pm. Centro Plaza, Marbella. Tel: 951 319 151

Suave

Open nightly for dinner. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Maritimo Rey de España 93, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 866 627

SUite

Open daily for lunch and dinner every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares. Tel: 952 894 191

zozoI

ITALIAN Al Dente

Dinner and afterwards dance to music by resident DJ. Thursday to Saturday. Hotel Puente Romano, Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

Open every day for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 181

Swing

Amore e Fantasía

Open from 12-4pm and 7.30pm until midnight. Closed Wednesdays. Arena Beach, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 151, Estepona. Tel: 952 796 320

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 7pm onwards. Muelle Benabola, Casa 5A, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 464

tanino

aragona

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 168, Benamara, Estepona. Tel: 952 883 259

Open every day for dinner. Avda. del Mar 3, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 322

Terra Sana

Open daily for dinner. Front line P. Banús. Tel: 952 812 898

Open Monday to Saturday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nueva Andalucía next to the Casino. Tel: 952 906 205. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050. C.C. Mary Sol, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 796 931. C.C. La Cañada, Marbella. Tel: 952 868 663. C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 663 937

Aretusa Carmen Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 739

Carpaccio Open every day for lunch and dinner. Frontline Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 357

the little geranium

casa tua

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Ronda, La Cala de Mijas, Mijas Costa (pedestrian street behind the Town Hall). Tel: 952 493 602

Open every evening for dinner. C/ Ortiz de Molinillo 14, Marbella. Tel: 951 712 227

The meeting room Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda. Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella. Tel: 952 772 577

The orange tree Open every evening from 6:30 pm-11 pm. Plaza General Chinchilla 1, Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella. Tel: 952 924 613.

CIBO Open from 12pm until midnight daily. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

CONRADS IL Ristorante Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner.Avda. del Prado s/n, Edif. Sport Café, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 628 593 409

Da Bruno

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmansa, CN340, km 164, Estepona. Tel: 952 798 449

Open all day. Da Bruno Cabopino: CN-340 Km. 194,7. Tel: 952 831 918. Da Bruno a Casa: Marbella Mar, Local 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 521 – closed on Sunday. Da Bruno A San Pedro: Avda. del Mar, local 1E, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 860 – closed on Monday. Da Bruno Sul Mare: Edif. Skol, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 903 318/19. Da Bruno Mijas Costa: Ctra. de Mijas, km. 3.6, Mijas. Tel: 952 460 724

Trocadero arena

Da Paolo

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Torre Real Beach, Marbella. Tel: 952 865 579

Open everyday for lunch and dinner. Muelle Ribera, casa G-H, local 43, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 453

THE PLAYWRIGHT Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Manzana, Locales 8-11, Pueblo Los Arcos, Elviria. Tel: 952 830 868

tikitano

trocadero beach Open daily for lunch and dinner. Playa de la Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 610 704 144

Don giovanni Open Friday to Monday for dinner. At Hotel Finca

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Cortesín. Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

Frascati Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 952 790 392

gold restaurant Open every day from 10am to 12 am. Complejo Benabola 13, Beach Side, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 929 055

Il Tartufo Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 6:30pm. C/ Tetuán 9, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323

la fiorentina Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. El Pilar, Local 11 (opposite the Crown Plaza Hotel), Estepona. Tel: 952 885 765

la pappardella di estepona Open every day for lunch and dinner from 1pm to midnight. Puerto Deportivo de Estepona. Tel: 952 802 144

LA pappardella sul mare Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 807 354

la trattoria de marbella Open nightly for dinner from 6:30pm. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. Online, Local 4, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 591

Leonardo da vinci Open every night for dinner. Urb. Doña Lola, Local 21-22, Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 934 667

Lombardo’s Open daily from 7pm. Galerías Paniagua, Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 795 924

MADE IN SARDINIA Open every night for dinner. C.C. Cristamar, Avda. Julio Iglesias, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 906 608

Metro Open every day for lunch and dinner. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 446 460

nunos Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Caleta Hotel. Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

O mamma mia Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

Pizzeria Picasso Open daily from 12 noon. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 813 669

portofino laguna village Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 035

Ristorante Regina Open every night for dinner and Sunday for lunch. Edif. La Ruleta, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 529

ristorante san martino Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinares de Elviria s/n, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 702

Rosmarino della piazza Open every day from 12pm ‘til midnight for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pinogolf de Don Carlos 34, Elviria. Tel: 952 850 148

trattoria l’impronta Open daily for lunch and dinner except on Tuesday. Avda. Salamanca, Edif. San Pedro del Mar, Local 14, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 785 943

Villa Tiberio Open Monday to Saturday for dinner. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 799

Mediterranean Beata’s Vino y Mar

Open Monday to Sunday from 2pm to 11pm. Avda. del Prado 20, Marbella. Tel: 602 822 598

Restaurante bar carmen Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 739

tempora Open nightly for dinner. C/ Tetuán 9, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 933

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THE GUIDE Price guide per head for a three-course meal with wine

Oriental Asia Food

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

Kaiden Sushi

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Comercial, Pinares de Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 850 060

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Com. Guadalmina Alta, Guadalmina 4, local 2, lower floor, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 896 508

Asian fusion bing

Kama Kura

Open 12.30pm-4.30pm and 6.30pm to 12am daily. Fuengirola, Paseo Marítimo, L-42C. Tel: 952 470 218

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

asiatico zen

Makitake

Open every day for lunch and dinner except Tuesday lunch. C/ Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 691

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ribera s/n (above disco Seven), Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 592

BAMBOO

meca

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Ctra. Istan km 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 906 674

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C.C. Pino Golf, Don Carlos, Local 1, Elviria, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 365 / 658 646 829

Dragón de Oro Open every day from 12.30-4pm and 7pm until midnight. Closed Monday lunchtime. Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 141, Urb. Hacienda Guadalupe, Manilva. Tel: 952 890 956

Namazake

golden wok

€60 plus

Open for dinner from Monday to Saturday. Centro Comercial Marbellamar. Tel: 952 770 550

Sushi des artistes Open every day for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

Sushi Katsura

Tai Pan

Wasabi

Open seven days a week for dinner. H. Puente Romano, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 177, Marbella. Tel: 952 777 893

Open daily from 1.30 pm for lunch and dinner. C.C. Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 908 577

Tahini

Osaka

Ta-kumi

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Marbellamar, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 840

Open every day 13:30-16:00 & 19:30-24:00. CN-340, km. 166 (Benavista). C.C. Costa del Sol. Tel: 952 885 751

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gregorio Marañón 4, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 839

Hanuri KOREAN BBQ & BAR

Sakura

Open Tuesday-Friday dinner only from 6pm ‘til late and Saturday and Sunday for lunch and dinner. C.C. Los Jarales 6, Calahonda. Tel: 951 406 082/ 952 932 011

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. Jardines del Puerto, L.5, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 536

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Manolete 20, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 549

KABUKI raw

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Costa del Sol, upper level. CN-340, km. 166 (Estepona). Tel: 952 888 710

Sukho Thai

top thai Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778

Tse yang Dimsum club

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Puente Romano. Tel: 952 820 900

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Puerto Deportivo 13, Edif. Poniente, Estepona. Tel: 951 318 445

Open for lunch from Monday to Friday and for dinner from Monday to Saturday. C/ Ramón Gómez de la Serna, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 863 193

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Hotel Meliá don Pepe. C/ José Meliá s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 936

Sapporo

Tel: 952 813 675

tHapa thai

Teppanyaki samurai thai gallery At Plaza Village at the Hotel Puente Romano. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 818 392

Thai Style Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Playas del Duque s/n. Edif. Gaviotas IV, Puerto Banús.

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sundays. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

SCANDINAVIAN Aloha restaurant

Open every evening for dinner from 6pm to 11.30pm. Avda. del Prado s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 811 285

Skandies Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays. Avda. Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella. Tel: 952 776 323

SEAFOOD

cervecería ostrería santiago Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Marzo, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

El Barlovento Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day

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except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370

Restaurante La Marina Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until midnight. Paseo Marítimo s/n, La Atunara, La Linea de la Concepción, Campo de Gibraltar. Tel: 956 171 531

La Torre Open daily for lunch and dinner. Muelle de Honor, Club de Mar, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 561

Marisquería La Pesquera Open daily for lunch and dinner. Plaza de la Victoria, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 170

Restaurante El bote Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo Rey de España, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 660 084

palapa Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

Santiago Open daily for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo, 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 078

SPANISH Bahía

Open every evening for dinner. At Hotel Don Carlos. Avda. Zurita s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

beach club restaurante grill Open every day for lunch. Hotel Fuerte,

Castillo de San Luis s/n and Hotel Fuerte Miramar Spa, Plaza José Luque Manzano s/n, Marbella. Tel: 902 343 410

Casa de la era Open every evening for dinner. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

Casa Fernando

Open everyday for lunch and dinner except Monday. San Pedro Playa, Urb. Castiglone. Tel: 952 785 138. Also at Ctra. de Ronda, km. 167, San Pedro. Tel: 952 786 265

Mesón el adobe

Open from Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Avda. del Mediterráneo s/n, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 853 344

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesdays. Avda. La Fontanilla, Edif. Balmoral, Bajo 3, Marbella. Tel. 600 003 144

DGust

mi taberna

Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Avda. Duque de Ahumada, Marbella. Tel: 952 863 780

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. CN340, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

El Portalón

Paellas y Más

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch 1-4pm and dinner from 8pm-midnight. Ctra de Cádiz, km 178, Marbella. Tel: 952 827 880

Open daily from 10:30am to 11pm. C/ Jacinto Benavente 33, Marbella. Tel: 952 822 511

Hacienda

Restaurante 1870

Open from 1-4.30pm and 7.30 -11pm. Closed on Sunday afternoons and Mondays. Urb. La Alcaidesa, La Linea de la Concepción. Tel: 956 582 700

Open nightly for dinner. C/ La Concha, 11, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 783 836

La máquina Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

la moraga Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

La red Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm. Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella. Tel: 952 821 450

La Taberna del Alabardero

Tragabuches Open from Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner. C/ José Aparacio, 1, Ronda (pedestrian street between bullring and Parador). Tel: 952 190 291

Vila do grove Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. C/ Las Malvas, Edif. On Line, Local 2, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 813 415

VEGETARIAN loving hut

Open daily from 10.30am to 11.30pm. Avda. Miguel Cano 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 245 889

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pets THE GUIDE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Nazli’s Pointer Clinic

Moves to New Location Nazli Kreft-van den Kieboom and her friendly nurses Melinda and Caroline are pleased to announce that Pointer Clinic Estepona is now located in brand new premises, which are easier to access than ever before. If you’re driving from Marbella, the clinic is just off the CN340 road (turn right at approximately Km 160.5; it is the exit right before Laguna Village). If you are coming from Estepona, take a right at the BP roundabout (Aldi direction), continue along the road past Aldi until you get to the yellow building on the left before driving back onto the CN340. i www.pointerclinic.com

Help Animals in Need, One Brick at a Time

Animals in Need is a charity in La Línea whose aim is to reduce the terrible history of deaths among unwanted pets. The shelter recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with the launch of a new initiative, under which you can purchase one or more building blocks (each costs €25). By buying two blocks, you will be entitled to participate in a raffle for various prizes. The shelter costs thousands to run every month, so even small donations are welcome. i www.animalinneed.com

Reasons to Spay Your

How to Prevent Heat Stress in Pets Summer is one of the most enjoyable times of the year for human beings but for many pets, it can be deadly. Never leave your dog or cat in a car during this season and reduce their exercise time, making sure that you don’t take them for a walk or run during peak hours of sun (around 11am to 6pm on the Coast). The best test is by placing your bare foot on the ground for a few seconds; if the ground is scorching, don’t take your dog for a walk at that time. If you are outdoors, remember to take fresh water and ice cubes for your dog. If your dog is panting (which can even occur indoors among brachycephalic dogs), cool them down with cold towels, removing them once your dog has cooled down. Finally, consider clipping long-haired dogs to give them welcome relief in the summer.

Dog or Cat

Veterinarians across the globe often speak of the many health benefits of spaying pets, though one of the most important is the prevention of mammary tumours in female dogs and cats. Mammary tumours have a very high incidence of being cancerous in female canines (about 50 per cent) and an even higher rate in female cats (around 80 per cent of feline tumours are malignant). When you spay your female dog or cat before its first heat, you reduce the chances of mammary cancer to nearly nil, so this should ideally be your first choice to ensure your pet leads a long and healthy life.

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THE GUIDE what’s on Events Continuing throughout august and september Until August 6 YOGA – ESTEPONA

Purobeach will be hosting Beach Body Yoga classes, taught by Lisa Marie of www.LisaMarieMethod.com The class aims to sculpt and tone your body, as well as to help you relax and even alleviate aches and pains. Contact Purobeach for precise times. www.purobeach.com

Until August 8 HOT SUMMER NIGHTS – MIJAS

Mijas Pueblo will be hosting a series of concerts this summer, with performances for all, ranging from the music of the Eagles to Bon Jovi. Tickets will be available at the Tourist office in Mijas Pueblo, Woodies Los Boliches, Robert Barnhardt Real Estate, Los Boliches, Sunshine Golf Store, La Cala de Mijas as well as other points on the Coast. For further information, see the FaceBook page entitled Hot Summer Nights. Purchase your tickets online on www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

Until August 11 ART – MARBELLA

The Museo de Grabado Español Contemporáneo presents O es de Oriente, an exhibition which portrays the influence that the Zen culture has had on contemporary Spanish graphic artists. www.mgec.es

Until August 13 ART – ESTEPONA

National Geographic prize-winning Photographer, Gonzalo Botet, exhibits his stunning photographs alongside the paintings of Damian Rilo and Eduardo Soria, and photos of Rafael Galán, at the El Campanario Golf & Country House. www.elcampanario-resort.com

Until August 15 56th NERJA CAVE FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND DANCE – NERJA

The beautiful Nerja Caves will once again host an entertaining music and dance festival, featuring flamenco, ballet and the highlight of the event: a concert by flamenco singer, José Mercé. www.cuevasdenerja.es

Until August 16 BOOK FAIR – MARBELLA

The Feria del Libro de Marbella will be taking place at Paseo de la Alameda every day, featuring book stands and signings by renowned Authors such as Salvador González, José Luis Moreno and Ana Eugenia Venegas. www.marbella.es

Until August 23 BOOK FAIR – ESTEPONA

View a wide selection of books at affordable prices at the Paseo Marítimo Pedro Manrique in Estepona from 8pm ‘til late. www.estepona.es

Until August 28 CRAFTS MARKET – FUENGIROLA

The Parque Yacimiento Romano in Fuengirola will be hosting a crafts market every Friday from 7pm ‘til late. Featuring jewellery, clothing and décor items, as well as food and ecological produce stands. www.fuengirola.es

Until August 30 SUMMER FESTIVAL – MÁLAGA

The Plaza Mayor shopping centre presents a host of entertaining shows throughout the summer. In August, shows include Quique Navarro (August 1 at 9pm, 10pm and 11pm), Capitán y Peperoni (August 6, 7 and 8 at 8pm, 9pm and 10pm), Ritmo a Caballo (August 13, 14 and 15 at 9:30pm), Compañía Dany Cantos (August 20, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm), Barbarian Summer Festival (August 22 at 6pm), and Magic Unlimited (August 27 to 29 at 9:30pm and 10:30pm). For further information, www.plazamayor.es

Until September 19 ANTEQUERA IN THE MOONLIGHT – ANTEQUERA

Enjoy tours of the stately houses, the dolmens archaeological complex (a candidate for World Heritage Site listing), a tour of various churches, hiking tours, astronomical observations, a fine dinner and much more. www.antequera.es

Until September 20 FLAMENCO – MÁLAGA

NEW AND REGULAR EVENTS Monthly on different days AMERICAN CLUB – MARBELLA

The American Club Costa del Sol Chapter meets monthly for excursions, sports and social events. Tel: 952 772 789. www.americanclubcostadelsol.com

AMIGOS DE LA CULTURA – COSTA DEL SOL

The members of this cultural group meet at different times and places for lunches, lectures, concerts, ballet, theatre, opera, etc. Further information, Tel: 669 445 809. smartkidsmarbella@gmail.com

Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE – MARBELLA

Integral Psychotherapist Gabriella Kortsch helps you with everything from relationship breakdowns to depression, poor communication with loved ones or financial stress, at her weekly group meetings, which start at 7:30pm. For information on locations, info@advancedpersonaltherapy.com

Every Tuesday and Wednesday JIVE – MIRAFLORES, ESTEPONA AND LA DUQUESA

Learn to dance with Colin and the team from Jive Spain at Miraflores Restaurant on Tuesday, El Campanario on Wednesday and El Goleto at Duquesa on Friday. For precise times, colin@jivespain.com

The Teatro Cervantes de Málaga will be hosting the fourth Bienal de Arte Flamenco de Málaga, featuring a host of dance and musical performances from the flamenco genre. For a precise programme of events, www.teatrocervantes.com

Every Wednesday ART – MÁLAGA

Until September 27 LOUISE BOURGEOIS – MÁLAGA

FLAMENCO – MIJAS

Louise Bourgeois is one of the most influential modern artists in the world and this month, audiences on the Coast will be fortunate enough to view over 100 of her works, including sculptures, drawings, paintings, installations, etc. www.museopicassomalaga.org

SHEPARD FAIREY – MÁLAGA

Talented contemporary Artist, Shephard Fairey, will be exhibiting some of his best known works at the Centro de Arte Contemporáneo de Málaga. The exhibit includes paintings, vinyl, illustrations, photographs, collages and much more. www.cacmalaga.eu

Until September 28 JOAN MIRÓ: WORKS ON PAPER – MÁLAGA

Enjoy a breathtaking exhibition of stunning drawings and paintings on paper by visionary artist, Joan Miró, at the Pompidou Centre in Málaga. www.centropompidou.es

The Museo Picasso de Málaga offers free guided tours in English (included in the entry price), from 11:30am to 2pm. Tickets cost €8 for adults. Children enter for free. www.museopicassomalaga.org

Every Wednesday at 12pm, a dazzling flamenco show takes place at the Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo. www.mijas.es

Every first Wednesday of the month CULTURE AND COCKTAIL – MARBELLA

The Association of Art and Culture Marbella holds a monthly cocktail at Magna Café at Magna Marbella Golf, from 8pm-10pm. Tel: 627 833 262. www.artandculturemarbella.com

Every Thursday NETWORKING – MARBELLA

The Marbella Business Group holds its weekly breakfast meeting, which features presentations, discussions and introductions of new members. At 8am at the Hotel Senator in Marbella. To become a member, www.marbellabusinessgroup.com

Every last Friday of the Month COFFEE MORNING – ESTEPONA

ADANA animal rescue charity coffee morning at Plaza Manilva (outside Longman’s Bookshop) 11am – 2pm. Kennels open 10am – 5pm Monday – Friday and 10am – 2pm Saturday, Sunday and holidays. Further information, Tel: 952 800 975. www.adana.es

BUSINESS LUNCH – MARBELLA

Marbella Business Institute holds an invitation-only lunch club for local and visiting business people, active and retired. To apply, visit www.marbellabusinessinternational.org

Every Saturday MARKETS – PUERTO BANÚS

Head for the Puerto Banús bullring every Saturday for a fun street market featuring everything from clothing to music, accessories and home ware. Starts at 9am and ends at 2pm. www.marbella.es

Every First Sunday of the month OPEN DAY – MIJAS

PAD animal shelter, Cerros del Águila, welcomes visitors from 12pm-3pm. Further information, Tel: 952 486 084. www.padcatsanddogs.org

Events IN august and first week of september Saturday August 1 DAVID GUETTA – SAN PEDRO

The world’s top DJ will be performing to a packed audience at the San Pedro stadium. Tickets available at www.ticketbell.com

PABLO ALBORÁN – MÁLAGA

Grammy award-winning composer and singer, Pablo Alborán, will be performing his latest songs at the El Pozuelo football stadium in Torremolinos, at 10:30pm. Tickets available on www.elcorteingles.es

Sunday August 2 CANCER GALA – GUADALMINA

The Real Club de Golf Guadalmina will be hosting the 23rd annual Spanish Cancer Association Gala, featuring dinner, raffle prizes and live entertainment by Jorge Hernán Baena, Los Bravos, Los Alpresa, and more. www.guadalminagolf.com

Wednesday August 5 PUPPET SHOW – FUENGIROLA

The Department of Culture of Fuengirola presents Viajeros del Carrusel, a show combining theatre, clowns, puppets and much more. At 9pm at Parque del Sol. www.fuengirola.es

Tuesday August 6 Bon jovi TRIBUTE – Mijas

One WILD night with Bon Giovi, considered as the best Bon Jovi tribute band in the world. www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

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Friday August 21

SPANDAU BALLET MARBELLA

Spandau Ballet will be playing all their biggest hits at their c oncert at the Puente Romano Hotel’s Tennis Club. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es and www.ticketmaster.es

Friday August 7 THE EAGLES TRIBUTE – MIJAS

Enjoy Desperados, a fun tribute to rock group, The Eagles, at the Municipal Auditorium of Mijas. www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

HUGO DOGMA – FUENGIROLA

Flamenco artist, Hugo Dogma, will be performing at the Parque del Sol in Fuengirola at 9:30pm. www.fuengirola.es

Saturday August 8 THe police and DEEP PURPLE TRIBUTEs – MIJAS

The Auditorio Municipal de Mijas will be hosting a fun 1970s rock night, featuring acts that pay tribute to some of rock’s greatest. www.ticketsource.eu/bigmpromotions

WALLY LoPEZ – NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Talented DJ will be bringing the house down at Aqwa Mist. www.aqwamistbanus.com

SNOOP DOGG – PUERTO BANÚS

The sophisticated Cavalli Club in Puerto Banús will be hosting a special concert featuring the one and only Snoop Dogg. www.puertobanus.cavalliclub.com

Tuesday August 11 POOL PARTY – PUROBEACH

Purobeach in Estepona presents Soul Deep Pool Party, an all-day event featuring great music. www.purobeach.com

Wednesday August 12, Wednesday August 26 VEGAS NIGHTS – ELVIRIA

The Beach House in Elviria presents Vegas Nights, a fun concert featuring The Rat Pack, an Elvis tribute, Showgirls and much more. To book a table, Tel: 952 839 488.www.marbellabeachhouse.com

Saturday August 15 LATIN MUSIC – MIJAS

The Plaza Virgen de la Peña in Mijas Pueblo will form a fitting backdrop to Noche Latina, featuring Latino music and dancing. www.mijas.es

Saturday August 15 to Saturday August 22 FERIA – MÁLAGA

The biggest fair in Málaga will be taking place in the city centre by day and the fairgrounds by night. Enjoy drinks, food, dance and music and plenty of partying.

Dancing horses – estepona

Thursday August 20 PASIÓN GITANA – ESTEPONA

Monday August 10 OPERA – MÁLAGA

Friday August 21 CARIBBEAN MUSIC CONCERT – FUENGIROLA

The Escuela de Arte Ecuestre Costa del Sol will be hosting a beautiful Horses and Music show, featuring graceful Andalusian horses. For further information, www.escuela-ecuestre.com

Renowned Tenor, Roberto Alagna, will be singing songs inspired on two of Shakespeare’s greatest characters: Othello and Romeo, at the Palacio de los Deportes José María Martín Carpena at 9:30pm. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

GRIGORY LEPS – MARBELLA

Singer-songwriter from Georgia, Grigory Leps sings hits old and new at the Palacio de Congresos de Marbella at 9pm. www.marbellacongresos.com

Purobeach in Estepona presents Pasión Gitana: an evening filled with Spanish flavour and live flamenco music. www.purobeach.com

The Parque del Sol in Fuengirola will be hosting a lively Caribbean music show, featuring various performers. The show starts at 9:30pm. www.fuengirola.es

Sunday August 23 DANCE – MIJAS

Víctor Rojas and Reme Fernández will be performing at a fun dance festival at the Municipal Auditorium of Mijas. www.mijas.es

MIAMI GRILL – ESTEPONA

Purobeach in Estepona presents Miami Grill: a hearty fish and seafood grill, great cocktails and live DJ-spun music. www.purobeach.com

Friday August 28 MAGIC – FUENGIROLA

Laura Pausini

THE ODDBALLS AND SURFIN’ BEARDS – FUENGIROLA

Starlite Festival

A fun magic show will be taking place at Parque del Sol in Fuengirola at 9pm. www.fuengirola.es

Enjoy a fun rock concert by The Oddballs and Surfin’ Beards at the Parque del Sol at 9pm. www.fuengirola.es

Saturday August 29 MANÁ – MÁLAGA

Top pop group, Maná, will be performing in Málaga as part of their Cama Incendiada Tour. At the Estadio de Atletismo Ciudad de Málaga. For tickets, www.elcorteingles.es

Sunday August 30 CHAMPAGNE PARTY – PUERTO BANÚS

Ocean Club will be holding a fun Champagne party, where bottles of bubbly will be adding a refreshing zing to your summer. www.oceanclub.es

Friday September 4 to Sunday September 6 JORGE JAVIER VÁZQUEZ – MÁLAGA Spain’s most popular television presenter, Jorge Javier Vázquez, presents Iba en Serio, a musical about the highs and lows of his personal and professional life. www.teatrocervantes.com

Friday September 4 to Wednesday September 9 FERIA – MIJAS

The Feria de Mijas will be taking place, featuring revelry in the streets, flamenco music and dance and fun rides. www.mijas.es

Sunday September 6 to Wednesday September 9 GAY FESTIVAL – MARBELLA

The Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella will be hosting the Be Free Marbella Gay Festival, featuring live DJ-spun music and a huge party. www.befreemarbellagayfestival.com

The Starlite Festival brings some of the best performers in the world to the beautiful Cantera de Nagüeles. In August, concerts are as follows: Sunday August 2 Miguel Bosé Monday August 3 Melendi Tuesday August 4 Julieta Venegas Wednesday August 5 Julio Iglesias Thursday August 6 Roger Hodgson, formerly of Supertramp Friday August 7 Laura Pausini Saturday August 8 Ana Belén and Victor Manuel Monday August 10 Mago Pop Tuesday August 11 Sara Baras Wednesday August 12 India Martínez and Pitingo Thursday August 13 Enrique Iglesias Friday August 14 Amaia Montero Saturday August 15 Otra Noche Movida Sunday August 16 Vivancos Tuesday August 18 Anastacia Wednesday August 19 Symphonic Rhapsody of Queen Thursday August 20 Alejandro Sanz Saturday August 22 Andrea Bocelli Concerts start at around 10pm. For tickets, www.starlitemarbella.com

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www.russellgrant.com

THE GUIDE stars

Russell Grant’s

Monthly Horoscope August 2015

LEO July 24th - August 23rd Resist the urge to talk about your private life with family at the beginning of August. A conservative relative won’t approve of your freewheeling behaviour. You’ll get an opportunity to display your talent on the 4th, which makes you glow with excitement. Finding new sources of income will be easier as you approach mid-month. The New Moon on the 14th is good for updating your look, getting a spa treatment and indulging your sensual side. The second half of August is the best time of the year to ask for a raise. Back up your arguments with plenty of facts and figures. The Full Moon on the 29th warns against buying things on credit. If you take extra steps to conserve your resources, you’ll avoid a great deal of financial problems. Focus on living beneath your means. The money you save will sustain you through lean times. It will also give you an extra measure of freedom.

The New Moon on the 14th is good for updating your look, getting a spa treatment and indulging your sensual side

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ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

Resist the urge to rush an intimate relationship in the opening days of August. Winning someone’s trust will take time and patience. A generous relative will give financial or practical support during the first half of the month. Go ahead and accept what is being offered, whether it’s a loan, sound advice, or some childcare. Your health gets a big boost near the 11th. There’s never been a better time to launch a fitness programme, go on a diet, or practice relaxation techniques. Work will become a lot more pleasant around this date, too. The New Moon on the 14th invites you to go on a romantic break. If you’re creative, take this opportunity to launch a novel, start a painting, or practice your dance moves. Any artistic endeavour is good at the end of August. The Full Moon on the 29th will bring a shocking secret to light. Prepare to change your opinion about a fellow worker you have always trusted.

TAURUS [21 APRIL - 21 may]

It will be easier to get help from your best friend, lover, or business partner in the early days of August. All the hostility and resentment that has been brewing will magically disappear. Plan an enjoyable family reunion for the first half of the month. It will be especially good to reunite with a relative who always makes you laugh. Your love life will get a big boost around this time. If you’re single, you’ll meet someone special through work or at the gym. Do you already have a partner? Launch a creative endeavour with your amour. The New Moon on the 14th could prompt you to make changes to your domestic routine. This is a great time to find a roommate, expand your property, or welcome a relative into your home. Be sure to attend a friend’s birthday party towards the end of August, or an angry encounter will ensue.

GEMINI [22 May - 21 June]

Travelling with a group will be lots of fun in the beginning of August. You’re bound to encounter a few surprises along the way, but they will be pleasant ones. Always use a respectful tone with an older colleague in the first half of the month, or the atmosphere will become tense. Mid-August you’ll be able to spend more quality time at home, which is music to your family’s ears. If you live far from kin, plan a reunion before the month is over. The New Moon on the 14th will prompt you to take an art class. You’re bound to make at least one unusual friend through your studies. The second half of August is perfect for expanding your home or finding a bigger place to live. Don’t assume your boss will grant a request for time off at the end of the month. Your services may be needed.

CANCER [22 June 23 July]

Your self esteem will be low in the opening days of August. Don’t confuse your personal self worth with the amount of money in your bank account. It is impossible to put a price on your humour, wisdom and compassion. A beautiful gift will find its way into your hands during the first half of the month. Don’t put this token away for special occasions; use it on a regular basis. Be sure to sign up for a class on the 11th; your studies will bring you a great deal of happiness. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for improving your financial fortunes. Don’t be surprised if you get a raise or are awarded a lucrative job. The Full Moon on the 29th will force you to defend your beliefs to a sceptical relative or colleague. Try not

to get too personal when making your case. Better yet, just don’t discuss such a personal issue.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEPT]

An intimate relationship will give you tremendous pleasure in early August. If you’re not in a relationship, this is the perfect time to find romance. Ask a friend to set you up on a blind date. A teaching, writing, or research job will be a welcome division on or around the 7th. If there’s anything you enjoy, it’s digging up interesting facts and figures. Don’t be surprised when your popularity soars at midmonth. Word has spread of your talent. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for taking a class on money management. Learning how to maximise your financial resources will help you afford more luxuries. Be sure to negotiate a raise in the second half of August, when your powers of persuasion will be at an all time high. The Full Moon on the 29th warns of putting too much pressure on your best friend, lover, or business partner.

LIbra [24 sept - 23 oct]

A festive party gives early August a glamorous feel. Be sure to wear something special to this glittering occasion, as all eyes will be on you. After this big bash, you’ll feel inclined to spend more time on solitary pursuits. Reading, writing, music and prose will bring great happiness in mid-August. You might even decide to decline some invitations so you’ll have more time for creative work. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for joining a humanitarian organisation. Working on behalf of a charity will put life in perspective. Problems won’t seem so difficult when you are focused on helping underprivileged people. The Full Moon on the 29th brings a health problem to light. If you’re going to get better, you will have to improve your diet, become more active and get more sleep. Old habits will die hard. Eventually, you’ll feel the benefits of your new regime and wonder why you ever resisted it.

Scorpio [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

It becomes easier to exercise your authority in the opening days of August. Prepare to face off with an overambitious authority figure on the 3rd. It will be your job to bring this disillusioned optimist back down to Earth. Teamwork takes on an increasing importance in mid-August. Be prepared to adjust your methods to suit the group during this energetic time. The New Moon on the 14th helps you land a high profile job. Your responsibilities will be varied and unusual, which is very stimulating. The second half of August proves quite sociable. Be sure to attend as many parties as possible. Spending time with friends helps put your life in a healthier perspective. The Full Moon on the 29th brings an end to a troubled romance. Although you’re sad to part ways, it’s a relief to escape all the fighting. If you’re single, you may decide to abandon a creative pursuit that has been giving you grief.

sAGITTARIUS [23 Nov- 21 Dec]

Don’t question your abilities in early August, when a teacher pokes fun at your unorthodox methods. There is a method to your madness. Anybody who has worked with you can attest to your expertise. You’ll be able to demonstrate your talent on the 4th, when you’re asked to make a public presentation. This demonstration will be a resounding

success, although one of your peers will become quite jealous. Career opportunities will become more readily available in mid-August, when you’re offered at least one high powered job. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for accepting a plum position that allows you tremendous creative freedom. Your leadership ability will be applauded on the 23rd, when you’re put in charge of an important project. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to spend more time on domestic pursuits. A child needs your help with a difficult situation. This may require you to spend fewer hours at the office.

CAPRICORN [22 DEC - 20 JAN]

Friends will help with heavy responsibilities at the beginning of August. If you need assistance, just ask for it. Don’t be too hard on yourself if a meeting goes sour on the 3rd. There are certain relationships that are just not meant to be. You’ll have to force yourself to be more outgoing than usual during the first half of August, especially if you want to make important business contacts. Opportunities to travel, write and study will arise on or around the 11th. If you get a chance to expand your horizons, seize it. The New Moon on the 14th brings money from a refund, inheritance, or legal settlement. Put this money towards a computer or smartphone. Try not to be defensive with an authority figure during the second half of August. Their questions are aimed at finding your strengths and weaknesses. The Full Moon on the 29th marks the end of a friendship with an overly demanding person.

AQUARIUS [21 JAN - 19 FEB]

Responsibilities at work increase in early August. You actually enjoy presiding over a big project, although it means keeping close tabs on rebellious staff members. A generous grant, scholarship, or legal settlement becomes available near the 11th, allowing you to afford more luxuries. This would be a wonderful time to go back to education and get an advanced degree. The New Moon on the 14th signals a romantic interlude. Pamper your amour with gifts, loving gestures and affectionate words. Are you single? You could meet someone special at an impromptu party. Be sure to accept a last minute invitation. A friend will invite you along on a holiday or shopping spree on the 19th. A good time will be had by all. Be sure to take plenty of photos, as you’ll want to remember this wonderful time. The Full Moon on the 29th brings about an ethical dilemma. Obey your conscience.

PISCES 20 Feb - 20 Mar]

Help from religious, educational and cultural leaders becomes more readily available in early August. If you’re dealing with a bureaucratic nightmare, reach out to a person who is well respected in your community. A massage or spa treatment will feel wonderful on the 4th. Go ahead and splurge on a little self pampering. Your best friend or lover becomes much more attentive near the 11th, relieving you of chores and helping ease your anxieties. The New Moon on the 14th is perfect for launching a fitness regime. Take more time out of your schedule to prepare healthy meals with fresh ingredients. The second half of August proves very productive, when you’re able to team up with a creative colleague. The two of you make a fantastic team and will produce impressive results. The Full Moon on the 29th prompts you to attend to some personal needs that aren’t being met by a partner. ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM AUGUST 2015 / 193

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THE GUIDE family

Family Fun August Calendar

FAMILY FUN

Families flock to Marbella for the spectacular beaches, sunshine and the ability to spend nearly every day of the year outside. But where do families go when they want to cool off during the hottest month of the year? This feature is dedicated to the absolute coolest ways to beat the heat in August. MarbellaFamilyFun.com is pleased to share with these cool picks for kids and teens this month. For a full listing of family-friendly activities, visit MarbellaFamilyFun.com

Outdoors

Canyoning – a fun and exciting way to stay cool and experience some of Marbella’s fantastic local rivers. Andalucía offers spectacular gorges and canyons, including stunning waterfalls, deep natural pools and breathtaking scenery. An invigorating way to stay cool this summer! Team Xtreme. Tel: 952 768 349. Beachside Aquatic Parks – are all the rage among kids and teens. You can’t miss the huge inflatable structures that rise up out of the shoreline and the fun is out of this world! Kids six and up can enjoy romping over a series of obstacle courses that ultimately lead to plunges into the cool waters of the Mediterranean. Costa Water Park. Email: info@costawaterpark.com Summer Swim Camp – a great option for adults or kids from the age of three looking for coaching to feel totally comfortable in the water. This is a fun way to make sure that your kids have the skills they need to be safe and enjoy Marbella’s pools and beaches. Water Star. Tel: 652 805 489.

Family Yacht Cruises – get up close and personal with amazing Mediterranean waters which are teeming with sea-life during the summer months. A comfortable 42-foot yacht can accommodate up to 10 people with lunch included for the ultimate family adventure. Bluewater Marbella. Tel: 658 707 139. Water Parks – are among the most desired destinations for kids on the Costa del Sol. Massive water parks feature everything from gentle wave pools to gravity-defying rides for thrill seekers. Open daily from 11am – 7pm. Aqualand Torremolinos. Tel: 952 388 888.

Indoors

Baking Classes – for kids who love cakes, muffins and pastries. This program offers a way for children to exercise their creativity while honing their ability to focus and enjoy new aromas, tastes and delicacies. It’s a delicious way to stay out of the summer sun. Be Sweet Cakes. Tel: 661 214 966. Dance Classes – in a cool airconditioned studio, a superb way for kids seven to 16 years of age to learn a variety

of dance including: Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet and Contemporary styles. Don’t miss the end of season performance. Dance Marbella. Tel: 661 064 468. Cooking Classes – kids from six years and up can experience a Tour of World Cuisines and create Spanish, French, Italian and American cuisine. Each day focuses on a specific region! A great way to learn about food and culture. Obrador Dulce & Salado. Tel: 951 702 789. Theatre & Art Classes – an engaging way to develop focus and confidence building skills. Perfect for kids six to 11 years of age. The class introduces children to creative expression through games, painting, dance, music and theatre. It’s bi-lingual EnglishSpanish. Creactivity Art Camp. Tel: 952 779 172. Original Movies in English – enjoy the beautifully appointed cinema right in the heart of Puerto Banus, a local family favourite. What better way to escape the heat than to enjoy this summer’s blockbuster lineup, in a cool state of the art movie theatre? Cines Teatro Goya. Tel: 952 816 421.

Daily: International Arts & Crafts Market. In addition to kiosks offering all kinds of local and international gifts and crafts. Kids can also take advantage of the nearby play zone. A fun way to spend the day in Puerto Banus. 11am – midnight. Plaza Antonio Banderas. Daily: Artisan Market, right on the seashore. You’ll find everything from clothing to food and gifts. With plenty of restaurants nearby this makes for a nice morning or afternoon with the kids. On the terrace of the Plaza del Mar mall near downtown Marbella. August 11am – 11pm August 15 – 22: Málaga Feria, the biggest fair on the Costa del Sol. This is a huge festival where you’ll find something for everyone: fireworks, live entertainment, rides and attractions for the whole family. The event is held annually at the Málaga Fairgrounds. August 23: An open water swim race on San Pedro beach inviting kids as young as nine years of age to participate. The event will include a short race of 400 meters and a long race of 2,000 meters. The water is warm and this is a family-friendly beach. Starts at 10:30am. August 30: 10K Run against Multiple Sclerosis. There will also be a Mini 2K for the little ones that want to get in the spirit – perfect for a nice morning out with the pram as well! Register on August 29, at the Palacio De Congresos Marbella. Have a healthy and happy August. Be sure to stay hydrated and use plenty of sun protection. For more information about these and other events visit MarbellaFamilyFun.com

194 / AUGUST 2015 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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· P U E N T E RO M A N O B E A C H F RO N T ·

· Grand Lunch Buffet Every Day · con marisco · with seafood

· Global Cuisine ·

Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n 29602 Marbella · Málaga · Spain T (+34) 952 82 09 00 · hotel@puenteromano.com · puenteromano.com

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