Essential Magazine January 2016 by Essential Magazine

N º 197 - JANUARY 2016

WHOLE

WORLD WATER

JAGUAR F-TYPE R(OAR)

essential magazine® marbella

EMMA STONE

José Bernal

MARBELLA’S MAYOR

HANNIBAL WORLD TRAVEL LAGUNA AWARDS MAGICAL

MARRAKESH

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

CHEERS FOR CAVA!

I S S U E 1 9 7 • JA N UA RY 2 0 1 6

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

essential

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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COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

MARBELLA

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om 6 fr am! 1 0 a te py 2 Hap noram Pa the

Enclosed: 730 m² Plot: 6,417m² Price: € 5,500,000

LA ZAGALETA Impeccable 3-bedroom mansion with excellent sea views within this prestigious country club. Beautiful landscaped garden with infinity pool. One of the best plots in this resort which offers the highest levels of security and privacy. Ref. ES8924

Enclosed: 306 m² Plot: 556 m² Price: € 4,950,000

MARBELLA CLUB HOTEL 4-bed villa in

the grounds of this 5-star hotel, walking distance to beach. Renovated to high standards. Ref. ES7349

Enclosed: 976 m² Plot: 2,560 m² Price: € 5,350,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA Stunning 5-bedroom modern masterpiece in the Golf Valley. Incredible sea views. Top quality finishes. Ref. ES8115

Enclosed: 637 m² Terrace: 14,000 m² Price: € 2,500,000

BENAHAVÍS 7-bedroom villa with guest house on an extensive plot. Potential for refurbishment & development of 2 additional houses. Ref. ES9003

Enclosed: 192 m² Terrace: 62 m² Price: € 1,598,000

MARINA PUENTE ROMANO Beachside

An International Associate of Savills

3-bedroom duplex penthouse with sea views. Steps to the beach. Ref. ES8986

Ag So en le cy Enclosed: 805m² Plot: 3,593 m² Price: € 5,975,000

NUEVA ANDALUCÍA A warm, wonderful and very private 5-bedroom mansion with sea views in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Marbella. Easy walking distance to Puerto Banús. Boasting excellent, modern features within an elegant and sophisticated decoration style. Surrounded by a large mature garden, some of which is on a second plot, allowing for the construction of another villa or a guest house! Ref. ES8990

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

Issue 197 • January 2016

S T A F F PUBLISHER AND DIRECTOR IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

YEARS

GENERAL MANAGER ANDREA BÖJTI sales@essentialmagazine.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com PRODUCTION MANAGER SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com

U ANNIVERSARY U

SALES SUPPORT JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com RÉKA VIDÁTS reka@essentialmagazine.com ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANDREA BÖJTI DESIGN & LAYOUT INMA AURIOLES

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER KEVIN HORN (WWW.PHOTOGRAPHERMARBELLA.COM) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS IAIN BLACKWELL, MICHEL CRUZ, CRISTINA FALKENBERG, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, ALI PARANDEH, CARLOS READ, TONY WHITNEY 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

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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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‘‘How should I adjust my finances for the year ahead?”

Talk to the people who know. The investment environment changed in 2015. The UK introduced pension freedom and the EU the European succession regulation, which may well affect you. Your tax planning needs to be up to date for Spain and the new global exchange of information regime. Contact us now to review your wealth management for 2016.

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You only live once,

Puente Romano: Rare opportunity to purchase an exquisite villa offering luxury living in one of Europe’s best addresses, just meters from the beach in the prestigious grounds of the Puente Romano Hotel. Spa, cinema, fantastic gardens. 5 beds, 5 baths, built 813 m², plot 1.722 m². E&V ID: W-0239P1. P.O.A. 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.

Nagüeles: Newly built designer villa with breathtaking, panoramic sea views offering contemporary style at its best. Highest qualities and all desirable amenities. 6 beds, 5 baths. Built 614 m2, plot 1.265 m2. E&V ID: W-023XUC. Price upon request. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

La Zagaleta: Villa with beautiful sea views, incorporating style, design and location. Heated indoor and outdoor pools, Spa, gym, bodega, large entertainment area. 7 beds, 7 baths. Built 1.446 m2, plot 11.080 m2. E&V ID: W-008SY2. Price: 6.900.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Golden Mile: Spectacular duplex penthouse with open sea views in La Trinidad, the most prestigious community on the Golden Mile. Spa, gym, indoor pool. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 208 m2, terraces 87 m2. E&V ID: W-00DITC. Price: 2.300.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Office Marbella: 952 86 84 06 · Office Puerto Banús: 952 85 98 60 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaPuertoBanus

we will show you where!

Sierra Blanca: Incomparable in prestige, luxury and design! This estate is situated on an exceptional plot in the best location, offering breathtaking sea views, contemporary style and impressive qualities and fittings. Cinema, gym, full spa, bodega. 9 beds, 10 baths. Built 2.438 m2, plot 10.434 m2. E&V ID: W-0240PS. P.O.A. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Frontline Beach El Rosario: Modern villa, set on a unique large plot facing the dunes and the sea. High qualities throughout, large pool and pool house. 7 beds, 8 baths. Built 815 m2, plot 4.000 m2. E&V ID: W-023Y6O. Price upon request. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

Marbella East: Stunning contemporary villa with sea views just meters from the beach. Luxurious and very chic, built to the highest qualities. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 320 m2, plot 1.372 m2. E&V ID: W-023R8J. Price: 3.250.000 €. Tel. 952 83 55 80.

Beachfront Elviria: Situated in a luxurious residential gated community, offering magnificent sea views, large salon and bedrooms as well as spacious terraces. 3 beds, 3 baths. Living area 160m2, terrace 108m2. E&V ID: W-023MJG. Price: 925.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

La Zagaleta: Opportunity! Best priced villa in this most exclusive Country Club. Spectacular, uninterrupted sea views from every corner, beautiful classic design. 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 330 m2, plot 5.458 m2. E&V ID: W-021XEB. Price: 2.950.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Office Elviria: 952 83 55 80 · Office El Rosario: 952 83 20 40 www.engelvoelkers.com/MarbellaAndEast

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS & ADVISORS 路 MARBELLA CLUB 路

Imagine yourself living here Solvilla is a Norwegian company dedicated and focused in creating high quality, contemporary villas in truly prime locations. We have more than 50 villas currently taking shape in Nueva Andalucia and The Golden Mile, which we can tailor make to suit our clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; requirements. Whether you are looking for an easy maintenance holiday home or a large modern villa, we are here to help you make the right choice. Contact us for more information.

OFFICE +34 952 765 060 MOBILE +34 618 886 885 EMAIL info@solvilla.no Blvd. Principe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n Âˇ Hotel Marbella Club, Oficina 10, 29602 Marbella, Spain WWW.SOLVILLA.NO

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Villa – Cascada de Camoján, Marbella Golden Mile 6 Beds 6 Baths 2.151m2 Built 4.742m2 Plot

Price: 6.800.000€ Ref: DM3755

Privately situated on an elevated position, this unique residence fits perfectly into the verdant landscape, offering meticulously crafted interiors, superior construction and beautiful sea and mountain views in one of Marbella’s most prestigious addresses.

CMY

Villa – Nagüeles, Marbella Golden Mile 6 Beds 6 Baths

918m2 Built 2.000m2 Plot

Price: 4.400.000€ Ref: DM3558

Immaculate villa with outstanding design and exceptional interiors, close to all services and amenities. Supreme location, stunning sea and mountain views and lush gardens merge to extraordinary effect in this significant residence.

Over 417 Offices in 58 Countries

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Villa – Cascada de Camoján, Marbella Golden Mile 8 Beds 8 Baths 1.844m2 Built 2.150m2 Plot

Price: 9.500.000€ Ref: DM3365

Spacious luxury in a modern masterpiece which combines high tech amenities with individuality and character to guarantee a year-round lifestyle of effortless comfort. Spectacular sea views and outdoor areas within a secure and gated community.

CMY

Villa – La Zagaleta, Benahavis 5 Beds 5 Baths 739m2 Built 5.520m2 Plot

Price: 4.500.000€ Ref: DM3656

Andalusian-style home with open views over the golf and valley. Built with great attention to detail, spacious suites in all three levels, guest accommodation, sauna and extensive landscaped Mediterranean garden with heated swimming pool.

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

DMproperties.com

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Beautiful chalet – Meribel, France

Price: 3.950.000€

Panoramic mountain views 8 Beds 5 Baths Garage parking

CMY

Apartment – Courchevel, France New build 4 beds 4 baths Parking

Price: 1.950.000€

Chalet – Megeve, France

5 beds 4 baths Secondary accommodation Garage parking

Price: 2.950.000€

CGI

Chalet – Chamonix, France

Jacuzzi and gym 4 beds 4 baths 330m2 built

Price: 1.990.000€

Over 417 Offices in 58 Countries

Development – Courchevel Village, France New build 38 units 1 to 5 beds 1 to 5 baths Fully serviced

Prices from 335.000€

KnightFrank.com

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Villa with seaviews – Cannes Californie, France

Price: 8.350.000€

6 beds 6 baths Secondary accommodation Swimming pool

CMY

Villa – Cap d’Antibes, France Sea views

4 beds 4 baths Swimming pool

Bastide – Goult, France

4 beds 2 baths Guest accommodation 1.2 ha plot

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

Price: 6.900.000€

Price: 1.950.000€

Apartment – Cannes, France Beach front 3 beds 3 baths Lift Terrace

Villa – Aix en Provence, France

Panoramic views 5 beds 5 baths Swimming pool

Price: 2.550.000€

Price: 2.690.000€

DMproperties.com

contents The Trend Cinema 24 Home Viewing 26 Music News 28 Books 30 Technology: Smart Travel 32 Cars: The Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible and Coupé 34

The Focus Whole World Water 38 The World Travel Awards 44 Project Management 46 Emma Stone 54 Marbella’s Mayor, José Bernal 56

The Style Décor Feature: Villa Rachel 58 Fashion Feature: Hannibal Laguna 64 Fashion News 70

The Spa Beauty Feature: The Hammam Treatment at the Six Senses Spa 72 Beauty News 74

The Pro

82 Enterprise 89 Business Proﬁle: Moneycorp 90 Law: Noise and Nuisance 92 The Vibe

The Leisure 98 Magical Marrakesh 106 Hotel: The Kasbah Tamadot

The Gourmet 109 Magna Café 111 Sushi Des Artistes 112 Food News 114 Chef’s Proﬁle: Diego Gallegos of Sollo 116 Wine: Cava

The Guide 118 Listings

The Blog 125 Pet News 126 What’s On 128 Stars for January 130 Family Fun

Health Feature: Quit Smoking with Rachel Garrod 76 Health News 78 Health Proﬁle: Osteoporosis 80

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Sierra Blanca, Liszt 2

architects

20 years experience in developing luxury architecture in Marbella

C/ Azaleas 51, 1 derecha. 29660 Nueva AndalucĂa - Marbella (Spain) phone 951 402 080 info@p4arquitectos.com www.p4arquitectos.com

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WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL

FRESH

HORIZONS

he Christmas holidays are a great time to relax and reflect on the year which is ending and to look ahead with anticipation to the new one that’s just beginning. To help promote this natural process, our January edition presents plenty of food for thought. In this issue, we learn about Whole World Water, an ingenious initiative that aims to markedly reduce the consumption of plastic bottled water while at the same time raise funds to help supply clean water for impoverished areas. On the subject of health, don’t miss our features on stopping smoking, avoiding osteoporosis, and what to do if excessive noise has become a nuisance where you live or work. We review the meteoric career trajectory of Emma Stone who, in a remarkably short period of time, has become one of the world’s leading actresses. Meanwhile back in Marbella, recently elected Mayor, José Bernal, answers questions on what we can expect from the new administration. Morocco comes into focus, as we experience a memorable sojourn in magical Marrakesh, stopping over at Richard Branson’s idyllic Kasbah Tamadot, and catching up on the some of the highlights from the recent World Travel Awards, which took place at Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort in El Jadida. Elsewhere, we talk with top local development Project Managers, step inside a palatial villa, get sporty in the new Jaguar F-Type R, and savour sumptuous cuisine, courtesy of Magna Café and Sushi des Artistes. Finally, enjoy a glass or two of Cava with us as we wish everyone a very Happy New Year!

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

The New Year is always a great time to ponder on the things we need to change. Take your pick from our list of books on renewal, discover new dimensions via fascinating cinematic offerings and see how futuristic travelling is becoming a reality. If you prefer to live life in the fast lane, give in to your need for speed and hop aboard the new Jaguar F-Type R!

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24 Cinema 26

Home Viewing

Music News

30 Books 32

Technology: Smart Travel

The Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible and CoupĂŠ

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Plot size: 2195 m2 Total built area >> 1030 m2 divided following way:

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THE TREND cinema WORDS marisa cutillas

e BLOCKBUSTER OF

THE MONTH

»» Genre Biopic »» DirectoR Danny Boyle

(Slumdog Billionaire) nder, »» Actors Michael Fassbe gen Ro h Set t, sle Kate Win

than s has done much more The enigmatic Steve Job o als has he ; ple Ap is t e tha build the gigantic empir into ves del film s their dream. Thi inspired millions to live the of rt hea the to us es and tak his humble beginnings es. d by a handful of genius digital revolution create

Steve Jobs

»» Genre Action »» Director Ericson Core

(Daredevil)

»» actors Teresa Palmer, Luke Bracey, Édgar Ramírez

Point Break

A young FBI agent goes undercover and joins a team of tough athletes, with the aim of discovering whether or not they are guilty of masterminding a string of sophisticated corporate heists. The film is inspired on the classic box office smash starring Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze.

»» Genre Drama »» Director Gaby Dellal

»» Genre Drama »» Director Ryan Coogler

»» ACTORS Naomi Watts, Elle

»» ACTORS Sylvester Stallone, Michael

(On a Clear Day)

Fanning, Susan Sarandon

About Ray Ray (Elle Fanning) is a transgender teen whose family struggles as he decides to transition. Naomi Watts plays Ray’s single mother, Maggie, who must find Ray’s father so he can sign the consent form for the operation. Susan Sarandon plays Ray’s confused grandmother, who has a hard time accepting that she now has a grandson.

(Fruitvale Station)

B. Jordan, Graham McTavish

Creed

The title of this film may not bear the name ‘Rocky’ but it is, in fact, part of the successful franchise that made a household name of talented artist and writer, Sylvester Stallone. This time, Rocky sets out to make a champion out of Adonis Johnson, the son of legendary boxer and former nemesis of Rocky: Apollo Creed.

»» Genre Comedy »» Director Sean Anders, John

Morris (Horrible Bosses 2) »» actors Mark Wahlberg, Will Ferrell, Linda Cardellini

Daddy’s Home Will Ferrell plays a caring stepdad to two children he has loved as his own since he first met their mother. The family functions as a close unit until the reappearance of the children’s freeloading biological father (Mark Wahlberg), who sets out to prove that no-one could ever replace him.

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THE TREND home viewing

Marisa Cutillas brings us a few of the season’s top DVD releases. » GENRE Science Fiction » DIRECTOR Brad Bird (The Incredibles) » ACTORS George Clooney, Hugh Laurie, Britt Robertson

» IMDB RATING 6.5/10

Unfinished Business

Tomorrowland

» GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Ken Scott

George Clooney plays a former boy genius who meets his match in a talented teen. Together, they must unravel the secrets of a place somewhere in time in space that exists in their collective memory as ‘Tomorrowland’.

(Delivery Man) » ACTORS Vince Vaughn, Dave Franco, Tom Wilkinson » IMDB RATING 5.4/10 A hard-working businessman travels with two colleagues to Europe to seal a big deal, but their plans come undone in the most unexpected and rambunctious of ways.

ASE OF THE MONTH

D RELE e FEATURED DV » GENRE

Animation

» DIRECTOR

Steve Loter (Tarzan & Jane) » VOICES Ginnifer Goodwin, Mae Whitman, Rosario Dawson

» IMDB RATING

7.3/10

Tinker Bell

believes in A fairy called Fawn r chance, so fai a e on ery giving ev creature ge she befriends a hu ast. The rBe ve Ne the known as convinced elite Scout Fairies are erous and ng da is re atu that the cre fore he be resolve to capture him must wn Fa . me ho destroys their ge in her ura co the all on summ beast she little heart to save the . nd frie a ll ca to me has co

and the Legend of the NeverBeast

» GENRE Drama » DIRECTOR Thomas Vinterberg

(The Celebration) » ACTORS Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts, Michael Sheen » IMDB RATING 7.1/10

Far from the Madding Crowd

This ﬁlm, based on the classic novel of the same name by Thomas Hardy, is the story of an independent young woman called Bathsheba Everdene (Carey Mulligan), who captures the hearts of three very different suitors: Gabriel Oak, a young cattle farmer who is taken with her strength of character, Frank (a fearsome sergeant), and William (a prosperous, mature bachelor). As she attempts to resolve her conflicting emotions, Bathsheba learns more about the nature of love and the ability of the human soul to overcome the greatest of difﬁculties through perseverance.

The Cobbler » GENRE Comedy » DIRECTOR Thomas McCarthy

(Meet the Parents) » ACTORS Adam Sandler, Method Man, Ellen Barkin » IMDB RATING 5.8/10 Adam Sandler plays a cobbler who works in a New York shop which has been owned by his family for generations. Disenchanted with his lot in life, he chances upon an ancient relic that magically allows him to experience life through the eyes of his clients. He soon ﬁnds that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.

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ELLIE GOULDING

THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA? OASIS

WORDS RIK FOXX

A new year but not a lot going on this month – check your local weekly press for any last minute arranged gigs. There are a couple of tribute acts in Málaga: for lovers of ABBA, the AMAZONAS and the CINEMA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA will give stringed renditions of their greatest hits at the Teatro de Cervantes on January 5 (ticket info: www.teatrodecervantes.com) Also, THE MAGIC OF SANTANA will pay homage to the great man at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos on January 29; and at Granada's Palacio Deportes on the 24th, there’s the real BRYAN ADAMS. Ticket info for both: www.ticketmaster.es As expected ADELE conquered the world but she has been accused of plagiarism by fans of TOM WAITS who say Hello copies his 1970s hit Martha – the man himself has said nothing. Also Million Years Ago has been compared to 1985’s Acilara Tutunmak (Clinging To Pain) by Turkish singer AHMET KAYA – and many have said the 1966 classic Yesterday When I Was Young by DUSTY SPRINGFIELD also comes to mind. Only in America: Can you believe the bosses of LIONEL RITCHIE had a legal team checking out if he has any ownership over the word ‘hello’ after his 1984 hit of the same name. Meanwhile sales of the 1990s style ‘flip phones’ have increased after the opening sequence of the Hello video which sees her holding one. And she has been invited for a cameo in the soon to be ﬁlmed The Death and Life of John F. Donovan movie. The brothers GALLAGHER are at it again, as LIAM accused NOEL of ‘selling out’ after allowing the OASIS 1994 B-side Half The World Away to be used in the recent John Lewis festive TV

advert. Former band manager ALAN McGEE also voiced his disapproval but added that NOEL was probably laughing all the way to the bank with the royalties cheque. After the atrocities of Paris, PRINCE and the FOO FIGHTERS cancelled their European tours but DAVE GROHL guested on THE MUPPETS SHOW singing Learn To Fly with the house band then as a ﬁnale he faced Animal in a ‘drum-off’ – this classic one-minute clip is on YouTube. Sticking with TV – the JACKSON family are to appear in a new documentary series The Jacksons: Next Generation It follows TAJ, TARYLL and TJ DAVE (the sons of TITO) who released three albums over the last 20 years as the band 3T. It will show “their careers, family life and the Jackson empire, and will feature rumours, stalkers and frauds, who all want a piece of anything and anyone related to the family”. The ﬁrst episode airs on the US channel Lifetime on January 6 but will no doubt be available on-line. And after the two Top of the Pops festive shows on Christmas Day and January 1, the BBC is considering a new weekly music show aimed at the over-25s and rumours suggest SIMON COWELL will be involved. And now ONE DIRECTION are on what, according to LIAM, could be a two year break, he may turn his attentions to push the 2014 X Factor runnerup FLEUR EAST, who released her debut album, Love, Sax and Flashbacks, last month.

GUNS N’ ROSES

The BBC Music Sound Of 2016 Award winner will be named on January 8 and among the favourites are JACK GARRATT, ALESSIA CARA and FRANCES. Former winners include 50 CENT (2003), KEANE (2004), CORINNE BAILEY RAE (2006), ADELE (2008), ELLIE GOULDING (2010), JESSIE J (2011) and SAM SMITH (2014).

Will 2016 see a GUNS N’ ROSES reformation GROHL with the original members? Rumours suggest that there’s a strong possibility as original line-up merchandise is now on sale. Just before his death last month, SCOTT WEILAND (who was in VELVET REVOLVER with SLASH) said a reunion is on the cards. But as per usual there’s a stumbling block – AXL ROSE wants to include a couple of members who played on the band’s last album – 2008’s Chinese Democracy, which probably won’t go down well with some of the originals. But one reformation that is happening is BUSTED after CHARLIE (I’ll never reform the band in a million years) SIMPSON had

a change of heart (bank balance needs topping up?). The boys have been in the studio recording new material and will release an album later this year. Another ‘old friends’ get together features the DIXIE CHICKS and the girls, who are the biggest-selling country music group in the US over the last 20 years, are reuniting after an eight-year break when main lady NATALIE MAINES decided to go it alone. And PETER GABRIEL, who said there is a “small chance” that he could be part of a GENESIS reunion, is to take part in a new experiment, which aims to look at whether monkeys can use Skype to communicate with each other – could be interesting – there are some humans who still don’t know how to use it! e

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THE TREND books

Reading on Renewal The year 2016 just beginning is full of promise and offers all the possibility for major changes in our lives. For lovers of psychology, few books are quite as interesting as those which teach us how to communicate, plan our lives and achieve our full potential. Marisa Cutillas brings you a selection of books that will bring out your best self.

FURIOUSLY HAPPY BY JENNY LAWSON

The crazy cover of this book almost makes it look like a children’s book but don’t be fooled; it is packed full of emotional stories about how author, Jenny Lawson, has battled mental illness all her life. Be prepared to laugh hard, but also to take a more tolerant stance on mental illness. When cancer victims don’t respond to medication, says Lawson, nobody blames the victim; the same cannot be said of mental illness, despite the fact that millions around the world suffer from conditions such as anxiety and depression.

F*CK FEELINGS BY MICHAEL I. BENNETT, MD AND SARAH BENNETT

When a Psychiatrist decides to write a self-help book packed with laughs, you know you’re onto a good thing. F*ck Feelings, or ‘One shrink’s practical advice for managing all of life’s impossible problems,’ cuts directly to the chase, with advice on everyday problems such as how to work well alongside someone who drives you crazy, and how to deal with a loved one facing the problem of addiction. The book is as practical as it is comical, and promises to ﬁnd a new kind of freedom by “getting your head out of your ass.”

CONSCIOUS UNCOUPLING BY KATHERINE WOODWARD THOMAS

The author of this gem gives couples who are separating or divorcing, invaluable advice on how to do so with dignity, kindness and respect. With a soaring divorce rate and millions struggling to come to terms with their so-called ‘failed relationships,’ the time has come to reevaluate our idea of ‘success’ and to see each relationship as a key to deeper self-knowledge and progress.

LOVE DOES BY BOB GOFF

In 2012, Bob Goff wrote this book and gave 100 per cent of the proceeds to Restore International and The Mentoring Project – two organisations seeking to give love to those who need it the most. The book emphasises the importance of acts of kindness, rather than belief or thought, in making a difference to the world. Says Goff, “Love is never stationary. In the end, love doesn’t just keep thinking about it or keep planning for it. Simply put: love does.”

THE SEVEN PRINCIPLES FOR MAKING MARRIAGE WORK BY JOHN M. GOTTMAN, PH.D.

Based on an important study of couples carried out over four decades, over one million copies of this book have been sold worldwide. The author uses important findings to define seven factors that can make every marriage a success. Readers will find advice for having better sex, resolving conflicts fruitfully, and overcoming digital distractions in the social media-rich age.

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GATED COMMUNITY OF SIX LUXURY VILLAS

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THE TREND technology “To travel is to live” wrote famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen in 1855. The man who gave us The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling was also one of the early cultural travellers in Europe. By horse-drawn carriage, steam ship and the newly built trains, Andersen made his way from Denmark down through Germany and France to Málaga, Spain where a statue has been raised in his honour in the city centre. WORDS ALI PARANDEH

THE ART OF SMART

TRAVEL TECH

ast forward 160 years and anyone can jump on a plane to anywhere on the globe while being connected to the Internet through the on-board WiFi and watching in-flight entertainment. Mr. Andersen would be amazed. In this issue, we will look at some of the gadgets that are re-shaping the travel industry. Gone are the days that we have to call travel agents to book tickets or ask relatives at our destination to ﬁnd us good deals for hotels or car rentals. Equip yourself with your Smart Phone, Smart Watch and a Smart Suitcase. You are now ready to board. Are you really, ready to board? You haven’t even selected your destination, let alone the tickets or packed a suitcase. You are far from ready. Back to the drawing board. Forget your laptop for a moment. Poor yourself a gin and tonic and let’s relax a little by the swimming pool. Just keep your mobile in your hand. Download the following apps: Booking.com, TripAdvisor, Visaport, PackPoint, Wikitude and Postagram. Now you are ready to start. Booking will give you plenty of suggestions, just put in a few keywords and they will do the rest. Skiing, Europe, or Sunshine with white beaches. You hardly need to do more, other than browse the available options. Once you have picked your destination you can even try to look up a few things to do. TripAdvisor provides you with local reviews of restaurants and amenities. I am sure you are more than familiar with both of these apps. The fun begins now; some destinations require visas and there is nothing more irritating than having to obtain visas. It certainly is the most annoying and disliked thing on my list, to

the point that I have actually decided against a few destinations simply because of visas. To my help, comes Visaport. The application offers users access to accurate and daily updated information on Embassies, Consulates, Visa and immigration information from across the world. Where supported, the application can process the entire visa application process electronically and deliver the visa right to your phone. Now that removes the pain from any visa application and there seem to be plenty of distinctive apps for different countries and nationalities. So just search for a suitable app for your country. What a relief. By now you should have the visa, the tickets and the hotel, and even found a few highly recommended restaurants. You are still sitting by the swimming pool with a gin and tonic in your hand, right? Well it is time to pack that suitcase, but don’t get up yet. We can still relax a little more. Open PackPoint, type in your destination, number of days you intend to stay plus places you would like to visit or things you would like to do, and the application will give you a list of things that you need to take. That certainly saves a fair bit of processing power from your overloaded brain, at least once the gin and tonic has kicked in, as it may not be as easy to think about the list and what or how much to take, so thank you PackPoint. Maybe now it is time to pack. Have you ordered your new suitcases? Well if you do, make sure they are Smart! Yes, a smart suitcase. A suitcase that weighs itself and tells you where it is? Yes, it’s already a reality with Bluesmart.com, the ﬁrst smart luggage. No more fretting if that extra pair of shoes drives you over the carry-on weight limit. Just

lift the suitcase and it will tell you how much it weighs. You can lock it and unlock it using your smart phone. And if it gets lost, the suitcase knows its location from the built-in GPS and can transmit its location to you from anywhere in the world with its built-in 3G SIM card. And as if that wasn’t enough, the smart suitcase from Bluesmart has a built-in battery that can recharge your smart phone, your smart watch or your e-book reader. To travel is indeed to live. Now that you have arrived at your holiday destination and you are walking around, you see a rather interesting statue, but with no information about it. No one is around you can ask and you wonder what this masterpiece is all about. Don’t despair, use the Wikitude app to point your phone’s camera at the statue and hopefully you should get a response with a full history. Don’t forget to send your friends a postcard. All it takes now is a few more bites. Postagram will do the rest. You must be hungry and ready to sit down for a meal after a full days sightseeing. Well once again, Wikitude and TripAdvisor come to your aid. Just point your phone to an area and let them suggest what’s around. Oh, just one last thing before setting out: remember to charge your phone, watch, Kindle, iPad, iPhone, tablet, the extra battery pack and your suitcase before leaving home. 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

JAGUAR

It’s claimed to be the fastest Jaguar road car ever built and it only takes a few minutes behind the wheel to realise why. It’s the F-Type R, available as a coupé or convertible and boasting a supercharged V-8 that produces acceleration so impressive, it would be a good starting point for astronaut training.

F-TYPE R AWD CONVERTIBLE AND COUPÉ

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JAGUAR

his range-topping F-Type also has allwheel drive this time around and it does a great job of keeping all that power where it belongs. Although the basic F-Type is a very ﬁne sports car by any standards, the addition of that tiny ‘R’ on the bodywork makes a huge difference, even if it does approach almost double the price when everything is added up. In recapping the F-Type range, it’s worth mentioning that right from the start, the car was dubbed a ‘Porsche-beater’ by critics and that’s a comment very few new sports

cars draw. The F-Type is certainly a worthy successor to the much-loved and widely collected E-Type in that it’s compact and agile and has great looks. It features technology that was only a scientists’ dream back in the 1960s and so far it’s proven way more reliable than the Jags of old. The bigger XK series sports cars, now discontinued, were never intended as ‘E-Type successors’ but they remained in the Jaguar lineup to meet the demands of a different kind of buyer. The original E-Type was amazingly inexpensive in its day and the new F-Type is still reasonably affordable in basic

guise by today’s standards – but don’t try and compare sixties prices! The F-Type R is only available with an eightspeed automatic transmission, albeit with manual paddles behind the steering wheel. Driving the car, I never had the slightest wish for a manual transmission because the torque levels are so high. Even so, there are people out there who would prefer a manual gearbox in what must be deemed a ‘purist’ sports car. Jaguar has introduced manual gearboxes on other models in the F-Type range for 2016, but not for the R.

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Of course the big story with this car is the engine and it’s a wonderful piece of engineering. It’s a ﬁve-litre V-8 which, with the aid of a supercharger, develops a healthy 550-horsepower. Like so many performance V-8s, it makes ‘all the right noises’ and it’s almost worth the money for the engine note alone under full throttle. There’s also a switch with which you can adjust the engine note to loud! Of course, it’s not just music to the ears of sports car fans. It delivers performance that could only be properly exploited on a racetrack. You’ll see 100 km/h on the clock in around four seconds and it’ll keep accelerating beyond 300 km/h or so. It’s a very exciting car to drive and a thrill every time you climb in, even if you don’t drive it to the max. Despite the car’s amazing performance, it’s very easy to drive around town and has none of the challenges some sportsters in this class pose. It’ll burble along happily in a trafﬁ c jam without the slightest problem, but it’s ready to be unleashed at the slightest opportunity. The suspension has been worked over for the R version and it’s very taut and predictable on

twisty roads. The 20-inch alloy wheels are fi tted with Pirelli P Zero tyres, the best there are for cars like this in my view. The brakes are carbon ceramic and do a fine job of stopping the beast. The coupé has slightly stiffer bodywork than the convertible, but few drivers will notice this. Like just about every other serious car these days, the F-Type has all kinds of electronic stability and braking aids if you do manage to get into trouble. Expectedly, the interior is a delight – this is a Jaguar after all – and driver and passenger are surrounded by fine leathers and first-rate materials. It has a very high quality feel about it in the cockpit even if it is a little on the ‘cosy’ side. Like some other cars in this class, it has very poor oddment stowage space and you’ll always be searching for somewhere to secure a small bag or camera if there are two occupants. The F-Type R takes this range to a higher level altogether and will delight Jaguar fans as well as newcomers to the marque. When it comes to serious sports cars, Jaguar is very much back in business with this one. e

Z ENGINE: 5.0-litre V-8, 550-horsepower. Z TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic only with F-Type R. Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in around 4-seconds. Z TOP SPEED: In excess of 300 km/h. Z I LIKED: Outstanding performance, handling and general feel. One of the best sports cars at any price and cleverly combining traditional Jaguar values with cutting edge technology. Handling matches the car’s neck-snapping acceleration. Z I DIDN’T LIKE: No manual transmission available for the F-Type R, but most buyers will be happy with the eight-speed auto box. Poor cockpit stowage space. Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Porsche 911 Turbo, Audi R8, Ferrari 458, Maserati Granturismo MC. Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Buyers with a special liking for Jaguars who never thought there’d be another one they’d like more than the E-Type. People who may never have considered a Jaguar sports car because they thought the XK models were bulky and cumbersome to drive. Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available now at €137.320.

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CULTURE / HISTORY / FEATURES

focus FAMOUS PEOPLE / INTERVIEWS / HUMOUR

We turn our spotlight on the world in this edition, with features on Whole World Water (a new global initiative to provide clean water to millions of people), and the World Travel Awards (the Oscars of the travel industry). Closer to home, we focus on Marbella Development and Project Management and speak with Marbella’s new Mayor, José Bernal. We also feature one of the hottest International stars of the moment, Emma Stone.

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Whole World Water

The World Travel Awards

Project Management

Emma Stone

José Bernal

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THE FOCUS water

ne of the major causes of water scarcity is the impact that global warming has wielded on snow and ice melt. Water levels are constantly on the rise, which in turn leads to further melting. In countries susceptible to hurricanes and typhoons, fresh water supplies become contaminated with salt water, as is the case in the Maldives, where only one third of the islands enjoy clean drinking water. What if there was a simple, sensible, practical solution to this seemingly insurmountable problem? This is exactly what new initiative, Whole World Water, aims to do: raise $1 billion to provide clean, safe water for everyone on the Planet. Whole World Water was co-founded last year by Karena Albers, a documentary filmmaker who is committed, heart and soul, to ending the water crisis. Her inspiration for the project came in the form of Sonu Shivdasani, a recognised eco warrior and CEO of the highly successful Soneva Resorts Group (with resorts in the Maldives and Thailand). While attending an Eco Symposium, Karena discovered that Sonu, rather than selling plastic water bottles to guests, was filtering and bottling water onsite, in reusable glass bottles, with 50 per cent of all revenues made from water sales, going to environmental organisations worldwide. Sonu found that his guests, a

Access to Water is a Universal Human Right sophisticated clientele staying at his luxurious Soneva Fushi Resort in the Maldives, embraced the idea from the word go; there has been a major paradigm shift in the luxury resort industry, where sustainability measures are a big drawing factor for tourists from all over the world. Karena decided that much could be achieved by taking Sonu’s idea to the hospitality and tourism industry at large. She adds, “I suggested we should focus on a single issue – that of providing clean and safe drinking water for everyone.” The business plan for Whole World Water took a while to formulate; on the advice of a colleague, Karena joined forces with Jenifer Willig, former CMO of RED – a campaign which has raised over $325 million to fight AIDS. Karena and Jenifer tweaked Sonu’s concept to raise the appeal factor for hotels; only 10 per cent of revenue from the sale of the filtered water would go to needy communities; the hotels could keep the rest. Whole World Water would provide hotels

with their logo and glass bottles, to ensure uniformity. The bottles, designed by Yves Béhar, are high on ‘chic factor’ and are bound to appeal to those with an eye for style. The choice of filtrations systems, however, would be left up to each hotel: “We conducted wide research on filtration systems and realised there was no one global solution. However, we felt responsible to find the very best filtration systems in the industry and we do suggest specific providers which are within the geographic area of the resorts we approach.” Filtering and bottling one’s own water has a second important effect, says Karena: “The Whole World Water project will also help eliminate plastic waste and reduce CO2 emissions.” The fact is, there is no valid reason to excuse the amount of plastic we throw back into the environment: “How did we become bamboozled into thinking we have to buy plastic water bottles?” Karena asks, “The waste produced is unacceptable and in most cases the quality of tap water is better.” The amount of damage caused to our oceans by plastic is devastating and indeed, on an individual level, installing filtration systems in our homes saves on costs in the long-term. “As these systems become more popular in typical homes, their cost will come down,” notes Karena.

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WHOLE WORLD WATER

Groundbreaking New Water For all Initiative WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WHOLE WORLD WATER

The water we drink today has existed on our Planet for millions of years, nourishing living things since dinosaurs ruled the land. Despite its inestimable value, human beings have failed to cherish our water sources as they merit. Overpopulation and the global agriculture industry have depleted our rivers and seas, led our rivers to run dry and polluted countless bodies of water through waste. The world water crisis has reached epic proportions, with one billion people lacking access to clean, safe water.

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Even the most simple yet effective sustainability plans take time to implement and Karena knew that her chances of success would be multiplied exponentially if a few influential faces hopped on the bandwagon. Her high-flying group of ambassadors includes Actor, Edward Norton; Treehugger Founder, Graham Hill; Philanthropist, David de Rothschild; and Virgin’s Richard Branson. “The Whole World Water bottling concept is in motion in all of Branson’s Virgin Limited Edition retreats and luxury hotels. We have 125 members globally and their efforts have enabled us to invest in 17 clean and safe water drinking projects in impoverished nations,” explains Karena, adding, “Whole World Water is also being supported by the new Virgin Hotel in Chicago and we recently signed on our first Spanish member: The Villa Padierna Palace.” The former President of the Maldives, Mohammed Waheed Hassan, signed a memorandum endorsing the Whole World Water campaign in 2013, asking the tourism industry in the Maldives to follow suit. This is a slow avalanche, notes Sonu, but one that “could potentially generate one billion dollars every year.” Often, the only obstacle to the immediate acceptance of the concept, is red tape: “In the hotel industry there are often many stakeholders,” explains Karena, “so that although the CEOs themselves are always immediately interested, the concept does have to go through their operations people and the final decision can take longer than expected.” Karena notes that “there is a tremendous amount of interest in Spain. We are currently in talks with the NH Group and we have realised that we have much better luck with highend boutiques, since the process is much quicker. When we conducted our research, we discovered that most of the hotels in the world are owned by 32 investment groups so we are also approaching them.” Karena, a self-confessed workaholic who lives between New York and London, somehow still finds time to make films. “Our documentaries focus on the environment. Recently, we launched a series on creative solutions to the most pressing environmental issues. The film begins with a two-minute introduction on the problems human beings have created, but jumps immediately to the many measures that are driving positive change.” Karena is positive that water scarcity is a problem that can be solved and is working alongside the United Nations to do just that: ’’In the UN, 193 nations just launched the new sustainability development goals, agreeing that everyone, everywhere, should have water to drink.”

Melting Ice Leads to Rising Water Levels

Floods Destroy Fresh Water Supplies in Many Regions of the World

The Whole World Water bottle, designed by Yves Behar

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Whole World Water: Changing lives in Manpur

WHOLE WORLD WATER IN ACTION:

THESE ARE JUST A HANDFUL OF THE MANY AREAS IN THE WORLD BENEFITTING FROM THE WHOLE WORLD WATER INITIATIVE: INDIA Sheohar, India is one of many impoverished areas now beneﬁtting from clean water, thanks to Whole World Water. Sheohar, comprising 209 villages, has a 70 per cent poverty rate and a 43.9 per cent literacy rate. The grantees for Whole World Water funds in Sheohar are One Drop and Water for People. One Drop develops integrated, innovative water access and managed projects for sustainable change, while Water for People Aims at eradicating water poverty at a district level, extending sustainable services to all families, schools and clinics in every district they work in. Thanks to the combined efforts of those involved in the Whole World Water project, up to 250,000 people will have access to safe drinking water and up to 550,000 people (and 229 schools) will have access to adequate sanitation facilities. UGANDA The Whole World Water Fund is currently investing in many different districts in Uganda (Kamwenge, Kyegegwa and Mukono), pioneering strategies such as Everyone Forever, which seeks to enable everyone to have access to safe water and sanitation.

CAMBODIA Whole World Water has installed a 5,000-litre water storage tank and the necessary piping, collection system and hardware, to provide water to the Hope for Happiness School and the Cambodian Weaving Village. KENYA In Makueni, Kenya, sand dams (to harvest rainwater) and school water tanks have been built. A rock catchment has also been prepared to harness water. MADAGASCAR Whole World Water is currently operating in Mahajanga, Madagascar. In June and July, 2015, initial consultation and ﬁeld visits were held with key stakeholders, to coverage a range of initial needs and planning aspects, including identifying potential locations for eight water kiosks and ascertaining how to best monitor and manage the kiosks. Over the next few months, the team hopes to complete a detailed planning and implementation programme, obtain estimates for connection costs and prepare detailed designs, to name just a few activities.

She has also enlisted the help of her friend and Whole World Water Ambassador, Ben Elliot, for a brand new project that will bring the sound of flowing water to London: “We have gathered together a large number of UK artists, designers and celebrities; each will be designing their very own water fountain. Once completed, the fountains will be placed all over London from July to September. In October, there will be a black-tie auction of all the fountains. Our idea is to remind people of the importance of water. Bringing back old-style fountains coincides with a city-wide ban on single-use plastic bottles.” Some of the high-proﬁle artists and celebrities supporting the initiative could include Vivienne Westwood, Tracey Emin, and Sir Paul McCartney. “We are starting in London, but our plan is to bring the idea to all the world’s major cities,” says Karena. If you are a hotel group and you are interested in the concept, contact Karena and the team. Whole World Water ultimately offers a win-win situation for all: for consumers (who can enjoy delicious water, knowing they are doing their best to save the Planet), hoteliers (who can augment their proﬁts from water sales and increase consumer loyalty) and the many impoverished communities who often have to travel for hours to access clean water, every day. As Richard Branson says, “There is no need for countries to import bottled water. There should be a ban on the importation of plastic bottled water. We are even looking into how to get rid of plastic bottles on air… if Virgin Atlantic can pull that off, lots of other airlines can.” As individuals, we, too, can play an important role in ensuring that the whole world has access to water… water is, after all, the source of life itself. i www.wholeworldwater.co

One billion people do not have access to clean, safe water

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

Built: 173 m2 Terrace: 24 m2 Price: 525.000€

Los Flamingos. Luxury top-quality 2 bedroom apartment, west facing with nice open views over the communal gardens and the lake located in the exclusive development Los Flamingos Golf, one of the finest Golf Resorts in Spain. Close to the beach and 10 minutes ‘drive to Puerto Banus. R2439116

Built: 172 m2 Terrace: 70 m2 Price: 290.000€

Beachside Atalaya. 2 bedroom corner penthouse situated within an exclusive community located in an unbeatable position, southwest facing and a short walk from the beach. Large sunny roof terrace with some view of Gibraltar. R2553920

Built: 250 m2 Terrace: 40 m2 Price: 525.000€

Club Sierra. Lovely 4 bedroom apartment with views to the sea and to Puerto Banus, located at the beginning of the road to Istan a few minutes’ drive to Puerto Banus, open and sunny terrace and a private garden of about 50m2. R2546198

Built: 200 m2 Plot: 160 m2 Price: 255.000€

Monte Biarritz. Perfectly situated 3 bedroom townhouse with walking distance to amenities and the beach, built on 3 floors with a private garden at the front and back of the house and a nice roof terrace. R734227

Built: 217 m2 Terrace: 87 m2 Price: 659.000€

Arrayanes Golf. A lovely 3 bedroom property with panoramic sea, golf and coast views. This is a spacious apartment with a massive terrace situated only a few minutes’ drive from the beach and Puerto Banus. Nice gardens and pool and also one heated indoor pool. R2440595

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THE FOCUS awards

THE WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS The Oscars of the Travel Industry

Travel isn’t always a luxury; for millions of people in all corners of the globe who have only one or two weeks to unwind and spend quality time with their families, holidays are a necessity for body, mind and spirit. For the discerning traveller, however, and those lucky enough to visit exotic paradises in far-off lands, excellence in service and installations become paramount considerations and anything less than perfection, is unacceptable. It is with this spirit of pursuit of perfection that the World Travel Awards (WTAs), celebrated all over the world throughout the year, came into existence. In this report, we delve into the history and purpose of the WTAs, and highlight some of this year’s most deserving winners. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS

WHERE DID IT ALL BEGIN? The World Travel Awards is the brainchild of Graham E. Cooke, President and Founder, who, created the event in 1993, aiming to seek out and reward the World’s top travel organisations. The first WTAs took place in Hollywood in 1994; since then, lavish gala ceremonies have continued annually, with finals taking place in the World’s major cities. In 2007, the WTA commenced its Grand Tour, celebrating regional ceremonies in five continents, with winners going on to the Grand Final. Regional events take place in Asia and Australasia, Africa

and the Indian Ocean, the Caribbean and the Americas, Europe, and the Middle East. WTA works with a prestigious list of media partners, including National Geographic Traveller, the International Herald Tribune and Travel Daily News. To this day, Cooke spends over 320 days a year trotting the globe to glean the hottest travel trends.

THE WTAS: MAKING WAVES INTERNATIONALLY The WTAs are now considered the premiere recognition of excellence in the travel sector,

with over 5,000 travel organisations nominated each year. The Grand Final, which took place this year at the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in Morocco, was covered by over 150 media outlets and such is the impact of the event, that regardless of which remote area of the World you travel to, you are bound to come across the winner’s shield in top resorts and venues. The WTAs don’t simply recognise the merits of hotels; they also award the leading hotel booking solutions providers, low-cost airlines, inflight services, private jet charters, luxury trains and much more.

Roam around the world

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FAMOUS FACES AT THE WTAS Some of the most famous past winners of the Travel Personality of the Year Award (the highest individual accolade) include Virgin Atlantic’s Richard Branson, Kingom Holding’s HRH Prince AlWaleed bin Talal and Sandals’ Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart.

WHAT IS THE VOTING PROCESS LIKE?

the nominees, relying on criteria such as customer satisfaction, commitment to sustainability and product innovation. In March, the ﬁnal list of nominees is The gala ceremony for the published and votation European awards commences. Votes are made by senior executives, travel buyers, travel agents and tour operators. In 2009, votation became open to the public. Votes are submitted online at the WTA website. Those who win the regional categories then proceed to the ﬁnals, where they compete against winners from other regions.

INTERNATIONAL WINNERS IN 2015

Every year, in the month of January, travel and tourism organisations are called upon to nominate themselves for the awards. Winners from the previous year are automatically nominated, as are the two runners up for each prize. A group of industry experts then analyses

As is to be expected, some of the most renowned names in the industry took home the prestigious prizes in this year’s awards – names such as Thailand (Asia’s Leading Beach Destination), Four Seasons Resort Nevis (the Caribbean’s Leading Beach Resort), Air New Zealand (Australasia’s Leading Airline), Regent

Seven Seas Cruises (South America’s Leading Cruise Line), Grosvenor House Dubai (the Middle East’s Leading Boutique Hotel), the Maldives (the Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination), Las Vegas (North American’s Leading Destination) and much more. Some of the most inviting categories for the prizes included: Z Leading Casino Resort Z Leading City Break Z Leading Exclusive Retreat Z Leading Family Resort Z Leading Green Hotel Z Leading Honeymoon Destination Z Leading New Hotel Z Leading Hotel Brand Z Leading Hotel Suite Z Leading Hotel Residences Z Leading Sports Tourism Destination Z Leading Travel Technology Provider Z Leading Wilderness Resort Z Leading Travel Agency and many more. Perusing through the list of winners makes it evident that every signiﬁcant component of the travel and tourism has been accounted for, with various speciﬁc awards for each region and nation. e

WINNERS FROM SPAIN As a leading tourist destination, it is only logical that Spain should take home a merited share of the prizes. Winners this year included: Z FAIRPLAY GOLF HOTEL & SPA (SPAIN’S LEADING ALL INCLUSIVE RESORT): This exclusive golf and

studios for those who prefer to self-cater.

spa hotel is ensconced in the verdant countryside on one edge of the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, halfway between Gibraltar and Cádiz. The golf course, designed by Paul Rolin, offers a fun challenge for beginners and more seasoned golfers alike. The resort also has tennis courts, a state-of-the-art gym, and luxury spa with a climatised therapeutic pool, hammam, sauna, relaxation room and more.

undoubtedly one of the most drop-deadgorgeous in Spain. Located in El Ciego in La Rioja’s province of Álava, it was designed by Frank Gehry and boasts a dreamlike design with tilted walls, zigzag windows and cathedral-high ceilings. The hotel offers epicurean indulgence at its ﬁnest, with one of its restaurants, the Marqués de Riscal Restaurant, proudly boasting a Michelin star.

Z EL OCEANO BEACH HOTEL (SPAIN’S LEADING BEACH HOTEL): This seaside

hotel, located between Fuengirola and Marbella, has just 40 rooms but all are beautifully decorated and some of the more exclusive rooms even boast private Jacuzzis. There are 15 south-facing

Z HOTEL MARQUÉS DE RISCAL (SPAIN’S LEADING BOUTIQUE HOTEL): This hotel is

Z W BARCELONA (SPAIN’S LEADING HOTEL): Designed by world-renowned

Architect, Ricardo Boﬁll, the W Barcelona rises above the Mediterranean like a majestic sail. The Hotel is as famed for its spectacular sea-and-city views, as it is for its Eclipse rooftap bar, where some of the world’s most famous DJs play up a storm,

A much merited award for The Hotel Villa Padierna Thermas Carratraca

keeping a young, trendy crowd on its feet all night long.

(SPAIN’S LEADING LUXURY HOTEL VILLA): Villa del Mar offers the ultimate

Z KEMPINSKI HOTEL BAHÍA (SPAIN’S LEADING HOTEL RESIDENCES):

luxury holiday in your very own frontline villa. Featuring 24-hour service, high-tech amenities, butler and maid service, dining staff on call and your very own private spa therapist!

Commonly known in Marbella just as ‘the Kempinski’, this Hotel boasts elegant, comfortable rooms, as well as beachfront apartments comprising one- and twobedroom abodes, as well as spacious studios. The Hotel is home to three large outdoor pools, four restaurants and bars. Its spa is known as one of the best on the Coast, thanks to an ample list of treatments and newly refurbished interiors. Z VILLA DEL MAR AT THE MARBELLA CLUB HOTEL, GOLF RESORT & SPA

Z HOTEL VILLA PADIERNA THERMAS CARRATRACA (SPAIN’S LEADING SPA RESORT): Located in Carratraca, inland

from Málaga, this spa boasts authentic Roman baths, a terrace with a hot tub and rustically designed rooms that exude tradition and luxury. Andalusian cuisine is served at the restaurant and pampering treatments can be enjoyed at the spa or in your room.

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THE FOCUS property

Marbella development and Project management in the 21st century After a hiatus of several years, construction activity has recommenced in Marbella. We spoke to some of the leading developers in the area about a new era of development. WORDS Michel cruz Photography kevin horn AND COURTESY OF FM CONSULTING GROUP

he construction sector was one of the biggest victims of the global financial crisis and Spanish property crash that hit Marbella at the end of 2008. In its wake, no new projects were launched and building gradually ground to a halt, while recently finished developments found a dearth of buyers. Many promoters had to abandon ship, leaving half completed construction sites behind as the banks inherited an unwanted portfolio of real estate. By 2010 the once flourishing sector was in dire straits, its main activity now the construction of luxurious individual villas in spots such as La Zagaleta and the

renovation of old properties by specialist small-scale developers. In the midst of this, however, a few companies had the foresight and confidence in the local market to approach the banks and begin to finish projects, upgrade and market them, and add post-sale management services not seen here before. The success they achieved at a time when most of Europe was still in full recession and the press spoke of the Spanish property sector in disparaging terms is not just impressive, but admirable. As the Costa del Sol was one of the first regions to emerge out of the shadows and back into growth, it saw the early transition

from the redevelopment and sale of unfinished, unsold projects to the creation of new ones. International funds were quick to grasp the opportunities, and have helped spurn a new era of property development on the Costa del Sol. The return of construction in the region has, however, coincided with a major shift in consumer tastes. Together with new technologies this has opened up a whole new age of development that over the coming years will slowly transform not just how Marbella and its surroundings look, but also what its housing stock offers. We spoke to leading local developers about Marbella property development in the 21st century.

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Michael Liggan Altavista Property The process According to Michael, the selection of an existing development or new-build project is based above all on common sense and the classic values of location, quality, style and cost. “A good question to ask yourself is would you like to live there, and what could you do to make it better.” It isn’t all plain sailing for developers though as in Marbella the legal aspects of land, are very much at the forefront of any pre-analysis. “Beyond studying the legal status of the land, we look at the desirability of the location and the possible product distribution on it. In other words, can the plot comfortably hold the type of property that is envisaged? If all these criteria are met we analyse projected product cost against envisaged income and sales potential.”

The company Founded at the height of the recession, Altavista Property has grown into one of the leading real estate companies and specialist property developers on the Costa del Sol. The company’s experience in the marketing of redeveloped projects produced an expertise that is now applied to new projects such as the highly successful La Finca de Marbella. “Initially we were primarily focused on marketing and sales,” says owner and founder Michael Liggan, “but the close involvement in the repurposing of developments to suit the needs and tastes of today’s buyer has evolved into a partnership with Stuart Clark and the creation of property development projects of our own.”

These are the things prospective investors are most interested in, and since banks are still not providing this kind of funding it is private capital that is needed, both in the form of private investors and funds. “It depends on the criteria of the individual or fund in question as to what will pique their interest,” says Michael. “Generally speaking, once you have demonstrated your seriousness, your understanding of the market, your experience and your ability to get the job done in what is at times a tricky playing field, then it’s all about the numbers.”

The product Asked about the ingredients that make a successful development in today’s market, he answers: “This never changes – location, location, location, followed by

design, quality and price. In the case of a redevelopment project it would depend on the product in question, but the idea would always be to lift the product to today’s standards in order to meet the requirements of today’s buyer.” Beyond this the company provides ongoing on-site management too, a feature that characterises the long-term approach of the more serious developers. “For us, it’s mainly about administering the communities we deliver and maintaining what’s been built. Our projects are the reflection of what we are about so we want them to continue looking as good as new.”

Future development “The invalidating of the 2010 PGOU by the Spanish Supreme Court means there will be a lack of land for new construction in Marbella over

the next three years or so until a new PGOU is drawn up and ratified,” says Michael, “so what is built now should be exemplary. As developers, we have a unique opportunity to shape Marbella’s aesthetical future and should use it to ensure that new build is attractive, functional, ecological and of high quality. The speculation of yesteryear, which drove prices up and quality down, is no longer present in today’s market and as such we should focus on attending to our buyers’ real needs. As local developers we have a very clear vision of the future: we believe in maintaining strong aesthetical values and combining these with state of the art functionality to produce landmark buildings for the future and provide the town with the architecture it deserves.” i www.altavistaproperty.com

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Taylor Cox Real Capital Solutions The approach “We look at a lot of prospective plots,” says Taylor, whose operation is now also moving towards new construction. “Only one out of ten is suitable as you have to be very strict on factors of location, orientation, accessibility and overall quality. Only when all these factors come together and you feel that it is a desirable location is it worth pursuing. Price alone is not a determining factor as you have to offer the client quality and value throughout the price ranges.” RCS was one of the first to see the potential in the market, redeveloping projects with great success at a time when the property sector was feeling rather sorry for itself. “The situation was somewhat different in the resale

The company Backed by a US investment fund, RCS first entered the Spanish market at a time when the banks still held vast portfolios of distressed properties. Recognising the potential of Marbella, the company focused on the redevelopment and commercialisation of projects in the area, though it is also pursuing opportunities in the Balearic Islands, Costa Blanca and Portugal. In a relatively short time, RCS has built up an impressive portfolio and a reputation for results based on quality and innovation.

market, but there was a demand for new homes and we were in a position to modernise and upgrade the projects we took on.” And this is something Taylor and his team have become experts in, though he stresses that it is not a simple value added formula that he follows.

The product “Each project, be it a redevelopment or a new-build, deserves careful thought and attention to detail. Those who focus purely on maximising profit in the short term may be happy to copy and paste, but we are building a brand for the future and base our success on offering our clients something special and unique in each development.” If assessing the

potential of a project is based on market knowledge then the skill involved in producing the right kind of product comes from a keen understanding of what your clientele wants. RCS got it right when they upgraded and modernised projects with telling details such as new flooring, opened kitchens and modern worktops. “We always start by asking ourselves why we are in this business specifically. Of course it is to make money, but we like to do this while also being proud of what we do, and we believe the latter leads to a great product, which itself ensures commercial success.”

Future development The next step is ensuring the product offers value. “To create

something special we take our time to make sure we get it right. If this means revisiting details so be it, for it’s the details that make the difference.” Even the success of La Montesa, in which RCS and Altavista worked together, will not be repeated in other projects because “each plot, location and development requires a personal approach. Competition is driving land prices up, so we have to make sure that what we produce is not just modern, but exceptional and unique. This is what drives us, and if the market heats up to the point where we believe it is best to step out for a while that is exactly what we’ll do, because we want to be here after the next boom.” i www.rcsspain.com

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Fausto Martínez FM Consulting Group The philosophy “What I am proud of is the reputation we have built up in 25 years for being a serious, professional company that produces quality products and subsequently maintains and manages them to very high standards,” says the founder and CEO of one of Marbella’s most highly respected property development companies. The fact that Fausto Martínez is the sort of person who personally reviews client feedback every Monday morning says it all about the man known for his punctuality, efficiency and perfectionism.

The product Having been one of the pioneers in taking home amenities and onsite services to a new level, FM

The company Having recently celebrated its 25th anniversary as a multifaceted real estate company, FM Consulting is one of the longest established property firms in the region. More than just a promoter, its specialisation follows the entire value chain, from conceiving original concepts and land acquisition through to product development, construction, finishing, marketing and sales to ongoing management. As a result, the group has a long list of emblematic projects to its name across the Costa del Sol.

Consulting is well positioned to be at the forefront of developments now too. “Modern is the buzz word of the moment,” says Fausto, “but we are very aware of the fact that people will eventually become a little fatigued by all those straight white walls, so we are always looking at evolving the styles both inside and out.” Ultimately, there is a right and wrong way of approaching most things, and from Fausto’s point of view the latter is often the product of a lack of seriousness and commitment to both the sector and the region. “We are here to stay, so naturally we do our utmost to create developments whose design and features offer enjoyment and create added value through stronger sales price performance.” To this is added a

level of service that is very hard to equal and which draws upon the hotel industry roots of Fausto and his brother Juan Jesús. “A lot of companies say they offer maintenance, management and rentals services, but few go the whole way like we do, employing a year-round team of almost 30 skilled people dedicated to providing the kind of quality service that is rewarded with an average rating of 9.6 on TripAdvisor.”

The bigger picture For Fausto Martínez it is, however, about more than personal success alone. “Our brand is strong, but we form part of the greater Marbella brand, which we have to work hard to nurture and improve even if it

isn’t directly related to our own daily operation.” For this reason he has long been an advocate of creating a sense of excellence in key local industries such as hotels and restaurants, and is working together with other entrepreneurs and local authorities to promote and improve the Golden Triangle of Marbella, Benahavís and Estepona. Again, the company’s up-and-coming projects, to be launched next Easter, are both located within the municipal boundaries of Estepona, and like his peers at Altavista and RCS, Fausto believes property developers have a responsibility towards the future urban landscape and desirability of the entire Costa del Sol. i www.fmconsulting.es

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THE FOCUS people

EMMA WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

STONE She Walks in Beauty She is one of Hollywood’s hottest stars yet she is surprisingly profound. She is an Actor, Singer and Producer whose name is a guarantee of box ofﬁce success, yet she is deeply grounded and, somehow, in touch with what really matters in life. She is Emma Stone – comic, dramatic diva and Broadway chanteusse. She gives life to many women on screen but one thing they all have in common is an undeniable charisma, a joie de vivre, a magic worthy of her role as muse for some of the world’s best Directors.

mma, born in the arid land of Arizona to a homemaker and successful entrepreneur, always knew that acting was her thing. As an adolescent, she appeared in a plethora of stage productions in her local youth theatre and also formed part of a fearless improvisation group which quickly wrested any vestiges of teen angst from the talented teen. Emma was also heavily into technology, publishing her own HTML e-newsletter and creating her own Powerpoint presentation to persuade her parents to help her live her dream: that of becoming a movie star. The presentation hit the bullseye; when she was

14, her mother moved with Emma to Los Angeles. There, Emma tried her luck at a string of highly competitive auditions, and worked at a local dog biscuit bakery to help pay the bills. Her ﬁrst television performance involved providing the voice for a canine character on a sitcom. Soon after, she landed guest roles on successful series, Malcolm in the Middle (starring Breaking Bad’s Bryan Cranston). Her big break came in the form of Superbad: a hit comedy starring Michael Cera and Jona Hill, two of the most successful young comedians of her generation. Emma was soon playing more substantial

roles in Easy A, Zombieland, and The Help. All these films had a somewhat alternative air to them, which suited the passionate redhead to perfection. Emma established a niche for herself which few other actors of her age were able to fulfil; she was beautiful enough to play the lead yet quirky enough to pull of ‘the girl next door.’ She shone in films like Easy A (about a high school student who spreads rumours about herself to display the hypocrisy of her fellow students) or The Help (in which she plays a well-to-do young woman in the 1960s who does her best to fight discrimination against African-Americans).

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Serious critics gave Emma her first real ovation for Birdman, the Oscar-winning, no-holds-barred foray into the theatrical industry. Emma plays a recovering addict who resents the narcissism of her father, a former hit actor making his stage comeback. She struggles against his selfishness yet loyally supports and admires his commitment to his craft. The final few seconds, which focus on her facial expression as she looks out the window and realises that her father has finally ‘taken flight’ (or taken his life) are breathtaking and a fine instance of her exquisite ability to relay a wealth of emotions without uttering a word. Emma is also the new muse of Woody Allen, the polemic Director who has nevertheless ‘made’ the careers of many a rising talent (take Penelope Cruz, who won her first and only Oscar thanks to Allen’s Vicky Cristina Barcelona). Emma’s off-the-wall portrayal of a young medium brought the house down in Magic in the Moonlight, while her obsessive pursuit of the truth in Irrational Man made light of rather cumbersome matters (infidelity, mid-life crises, murder). For Emma, working with Allen was a dream come true: she had been a fan of the saxophone wielding Director since she saw Annie Hall at the age of 14. She would also frequently head for Manhattan to watch Allen play the sax live, and her dog was named Alvy, after Allen’s character in Annie Hall. Allen says he first saw her in a teen movie and thought to himself, “My God, this girl is remarkable.” He met her in person, needing only four minutes to become convinced that she had

all it takes to sell his next film to an international audience. Emma couldn’t believe her luck; she was convinced that she wouldn’t hold down the job very long, which was farther from the truth than she imagined. After seeing her in action, the Director predicted: that “She is going to be the biggest female star in America.” He told People: “Her allure is everything: She’s beautiful, she’s bright, she’s gifted, she’s sexy, she’s intelligent, she can do comedy, she can do serious things, she sings, she dances, she’s a pleasure to work with.” Considering Emma Stone ‘is all that’, it is a pleasure to discover such a profound wisdom in her dealings with the media. In a memorable article in Interview magazine (conducted by Diane Keaton), she notes that her first memory of pure happiness is of sitting on the back porch with her

father, eating circus peanuts and watching a rainstorm rage outside. When Keaton remarks on the mysterious, beautiful yet simple nature of this memory, Stone answers, “The greatest thing about that memory – and I can only hope that other people have that same experience – is that it is of love before love ever got complicated. It is just the purest form of love that doesn’t need to be explained. And if you’re lucky enough to have had that with a parent, or with both of your parents, that’s a lifechanging feeling.” This moment, and many more she probably experienced with her parents, goes a long way towards explaining her maturity, courage and refusal to be guzzled up by the Hollywood machine. Emma notes that for many young actors, the moment at which they achieve success defines the nature of their lives; traps them into an idea of who they are or who they should be; makes them obsessed about succeeding in one of the most competitive industries around. She is aware of this force and simply chooses to step outside of it – to focus on doing what she loves: bringing life to comic characters that stand out because they are so human and real. In 2016, watch out for Emma in Battle of the Sexes (in which she plays tennis tar, Billy Jean King), and La La Land (about an aspiring actor who seduces a talented jazz pianist). If you can wait until 2017, catch her in The Croods (as the voice of Eep) and The Favourite (a film about the political machinations which took place during the reign of Queen Anne). e

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THE FOCUS people

On May 24, 2015, local elections took place in Marbella and there is a brand new team in the Town Hall, led by Marbella-born historian José Bernal.

PEPE BERNAL

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Mayor of Marbella You graduated with a PhD in History from Málaga University and, like many historians, commenced your career in teaching and researching. How did you decide to become a politician? I joined student associations while still at school. Many of my friends from those days are involved in politics and some are now with me in the Local Government. I joined the PASOC, today part of the Communist Party, and later the Socialist Party, after former Mayor Isabel García Marcos and her team were expelled.

You presented yourself with a project. Tell us a bit about it. What was the most urgent matter to solve? The most urgent matter was to halt initiatives such as altering the boundaries of Benahavís, under which Marbella would lose a large portion

of land, and circumventing a bus stop from being built adjacent to a primary school. Transparency and public participation were urgent matters too. Now all councillors and directly appointed personnel have their income tax declarations put on the Town Hall website, alongside information on public contracts, just to give two examples. We seek to create an open urban environment, hence we’re reforming streets to accommodate cyclists, we’ve stopped plans that entailed massively cutting down trees, we are looking at universal mobility, and we plan to remove the walls that enclose parks such as Arroyo de la Represa, by the castle.

Much has been said about the need to increase public participation. You have immediately made

the terraces at La Bajadilla port available to anyone wishing to put up a table and promote their initiative to passers-by. Until now this was normally denied. Other projects are in the pipeline too, such as Councillor 28. How will that work? Marbella currently has 27 councillors and we’re redrafting the rules governing Council debates. These rules give the groups in power a very comfortable working position, allowing them to simply ignore the opposition. However, it doesn’t meet with our idea of democracy. Councillor 28 means that anyone, backed by as many signatures as votes are required to have one Councillor, may have a matter brought up at the Council. Currently, this means that with a little over 2,300 signatures, a matter may be put forward, debated and voted. This is far less than the approximately 14,000 signatures currently required. If we ever turn our backs on our citizens, here is a mechanism by which they can force us to listen and consider what they are saying.

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On October 1, Law 39/15 was passed. It should come into force in one year, implementing a fully electronic public administration and a super-simpliﬁed procedure for minor issues. Will Marbella be ready? We’re working hard and we’d like to be ready, but we won’t be. Above all, we lack trained personnel capable of implementing the system. Once in place, it should speed up paperwork and make irregular practices much harder to perpetrate. We must also stop wasting paper, electricity and man-hours on making piles of photocopies when we can have that same information in our electronic archives. Technology brings about transparency. People have the right to know where their money is going. Each expense associated with running the Town Hall shall be made public. At ﬁrst it will be news; after a while, providing detailed information should just be natural.

Speaking of transparency, matters such as the attempt to alter the boundaries between Marbella and Benahavís would normally require an inquiry. Marbella has never had one, wouldn’t it be time we did? We’ll have committees of inquiry for various matters. Not only politicians will be asking the questions; activists who have unveiled possible cases of malpractice will be allowed to ask questions directly, or have them asked by the Councillors. Marbella’s Council, given its population, is governed by rules similar to the ones at the Andalusian Parliament. I had the fortune to be a member of the chamber when there wasn’t a clear majority, so committees of inquiry were frequent, especially when it came to conservation and preserving the heritage. Having said this, such committees shouldn’t be viewed as only inquiring into obscure matters. Asking to appear before a committee of inquiry to inform about projects and achievements should be viewed as normal too.

Regarding bullﬁghts, they take place nearly every week in Marbella; buses with tourists arrive and the spectacle that sometimes takes place in that bullring can hardly be called a ‘bullﬁght’. I certainly don’t support it. We won’t be promoting or subsidising it.

Marbella has a fabulous tourism potential. However we have a cultural deficit, with few infrastructures despite increased population. Málaga seems to have taken the lead. What plans are there? Málaga has done very well to foster cultural enrichment, managing to obtain support from different administrations for projects such as the Picasso Museum. Having Málaga as a standard bearer is fine, but I don’t think we should copy their exact model. Málaga was undefined as a tourism destination and decided to opt for culture. We already have that definition, and what we have to do is constantly improve our offer. We are looking at recovering monuments such as the Trinitarians Convent and the old sugar factory. Culture should, however, be within our long-term strategic plans, which carry on whoever is in power.

Culture is vital for tourists and locals as well. Culture should be present in each neighborhood, not only in the central district.

Relatively recent laws on mediation and arbitration have come into force and the Town Hall has taken a leading role in promoting family mediation. When are we going to see a similar ofﬁce for community matters? There is a clear demand as most developments are communities and disputes are frequent. Centralising information and promoting the use of alternative dispute settlement mechanisms, including by electronic means, should deﬁnitively help improve matters.

And ﬁnally, what would you tell someone who is thinking of investing in Marbella? Well, anyone arriving with the intention of creating long-term quality employment is most welcome. They can count on our support. Every Tuesday, I meet citizens in my ofﬁce, some in complex personal circumstances. Social integration policies and public employment programmes are only as effective as they can be. A leading role must be taken by the private sector. We support all quality investments. e

What is your take on animal rights? (He laughs) You’d have to ask my wife; she’s always voted the Animal’s Rights Party, until I ran for Mayor. Now seriously: we must respect them. There is an increased sensitivity towards animal welfare. What we perceive today as atrocities were maybe regarded as normal thirty years ago. Nowadays, pets are members of our families. If we have cats on the streets, the solution isn’t to kill, but rather, to neuter and look after them.

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THE STYLE decor

Timeless refinement under La Concha

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AN ESTATE IN

Marbella In a luxurious Mediterranean resort town it is hard to imagine a sumptuous private estate – much more so one at the heart of the exclusive gated community of Sierra Blanca – yet that is exactly what this magniﬁcent home is. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY WAYNE CHASAN

rand estates surrounded by opulent parkland grounds are more easily associated with the classical country homes of Europe, yet this property proves that they do exist on the Costa del Sol – and not only in the country club seclusion of La Zagaleta but actually within a few minutes of downtown Marbella. We try not to speak in terms of mansions, but what else would you call a home with 2,800m2 of living space that ﬁnds itself at the centre of a private domain near the base of La Concha Mountain? Call it what you like, the minute the grand gate slides open you enter a world few people know exists in this region. To follow its intricate pathways past fountains and panoramic sitting corners to

vantage points that variously take in Marbella, the Mediterranean shoreline, La Concha and the property itself is a rare pleasure even in this town of luxurious homes. It is strange to know that just a few hundred metres away lays a protected mountainous zone of Mediterranean maquis, groves and little streams that cascade downwards to the sea. Set among the foothills at the base of La Concha Mountain, a classic Marbella icon outlined by clear blue skies and fringed by natural beauty, the villa knows no immediate neighbours for it is enveloped by its own subtropical greenery. Four acres of established gardens and verdant grounds take the spacious villa in an embrace that ensures privacy, seclusion

and peace – while safeguarding some of the ﬁnest views in Marbella. Backing on to stunning mountain scenery, the main focus of the property is however set upon an entrancing 180-degree perspective of the Mediterranean shoreline. From its gently elevated position, the villa overlooks Marbella and the sea, tracing the curvature of the coastline all the way to Gibraltar and Morocco, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean beyond the famous Rock. From within the manicured park landscape, with its rich variety of beautiful and restive spots, it is actually hard to imagine that you are in Marbella, not Fontainebleau, with the beaches and downtown boulevard less than ﬁve minutes away.

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An Estate Within Sierra Blanca The fact that one of Marbella’s most exclusive residential areas harbours such an estate as this will come as a surprise even though Sierra Blanca is known for its large, opulent villas and select collection of small, luxurious apartment complexes set within deep greenery. Despite the high standard of homes in what is a top Marbella address, this property is in a different league again in terms of space, privacy and sheer refinement. In such a desirable location as this it is a prime asset to have. This much becomes clear as you follow the elegant driveway down to an entrance that is more evocative of a Tuscan estate than a Marbella villa. All around is the luxury of generous yet beautifully proportioned dimensions, in the villa as well as the gorgeous grounds that surround it. Indeed, this home has all the presence of a landed estate, as statuesque greenery, sweeping architectural lines and a sense of finesse surround the visitor as he or she pulls up before the entrance. It is also in its detail that this grand property leaves many a Marbella villa behind, offering the sheer variety of features, outdoor settings and interior living environments that is restricted to only the very finest of homes. Look back as you walk towards the front door and you will discover yet more detail in the intimate terraces and private piazzas – all framed by magnificent views of the mountains. Classic elegance in a natural setting

Commanding views over the Mediterranean

A contemporary mansion in Sierra Blanca

A true estate in Marbella

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Main salon leading on to the panoramic terrace

Unique rooms that create comfortable private domains

The richly ambient formal dining room

Stepping into a Private World Enter the front courtyard and the sun is filtered through greenery to offer a cool, personal space that shuts out the presence of the outside world to create a true sense of privacy and wellbeing. It is a domain built around luxury and good taste, where the finest materials have been worked by hand to create doors, gates, archways, colonnaded patios and ceilings all taken to a higher level of artistry. The finest furniture, antiques and artwork find a natural home within this environment, as in the well-proportioned salon, where the French colonial décor adds a sense of occasion that is reflected in the masterful craftsmanship of hand-laid ceilings and flagstones. Leading off the main room is an intimate and cosy Moroccan salon whose orientalism invites a delightful flight of fantasy. The elegant entrance hall serves as the main point of distribution in the home, leading on to both a secluded annex of little guest apartments and the private quarters on the first floor. Here you will find spacious, sun-kissed rooms and beautifully tiled bathrooms, complete with a master suite whose his and her bathroom is a study in richly ambient opulence. The large walk-in shower is a particular gem, proving that even a functional space can be an enchanting style statement full of personal detail and creativity. The aristocratic air of a real château is continued in the private study, the gentleman’s library, the formal dining room and the country kitchen capable of catering to large groups. One can only imagine the feasts it has conjured up for those guests fortunate enough to have enjoyed them on a balmy summer’s evening. They would most likely have been led to the large front terrace overlooking not only the magnificent grounds but also the classic 25 by 12-metre swimming pool whose infinity edge appears to merge with the sea on the horizon.

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Private Grounds The view from this spot offers a unique aspect of the Marbella coastline and the varying shades of blue that define sea, pool and sky in this part of the world. Columns add a touch of the French Riviera, though the unmistakable outline of Gibraltar in the distance instantly reminds one that this is the southern tip of Spain. Strolling through the lush grounds or ensconced within delightful relaxing areas shaded by rich foliage, the garden is a very privileged place to be as you inhale the fragrance of indigenous and semi-tropical blossoms. A home with such variety and detail offers a great many spaces in which to retreat, relax and socialise, be it under the shade of a tree, in the coolness of a covered terrace or the intimate tranquillity of an interior patio. The latter respects a tradition that goes back to Roman times, though the soft burble of its fountain is an intrinsically Andalusian feature whose effect is enhanced by the fragrance of lemons and almonds. Wherever you go, be it on the main terrace, the panoramic pool deck or the charming breakfast terrace, the villa always exudes a characteristic sense of peace, privacy and refinement. As such, it is a residence made for luxurious leisure and the appreciation of the finer things in life, but also one made for entertaining in grand style. Not only can one cater to and accommodate guests with all the panache of a stately home, but the lawn and terrace also lend themselves beautifully to gatherings of guests and stylish outdoor dining. Take a few steps beyond this point and you find yourself amid natural and floral bounty only a few minutes from Marbella and its beaches.

The private spa A room in which to relax and socialise

Outdoor elegance surrounded by nature and views

Premium Marbella at dusk

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A gentleman’s study

The private tennis court Plush home theatre

Opulent Luxuries If the villa offers a tranquil setting for a relaxing life it also provides every opportunity to enjoy more active diversions, with a private tennis court, basketball court and a professional gym complete with sports bar and home cinema in the style of a classical theatre, which adds a true sense of occasion. To play a game of tennis under the majestic peak of La Concha is an experience to savour, while the indoor recreational area features an extensive wellness spa that includes sumptuous Turkish baths, a whirlpool, sauna, treatment rooms, changing areas and one of the most impressive heated indoor swimming pools in Marbella. Indeed, many a luxury resort hotel would be proud of the features and the immaculate style of this private spa. The mansion is completed by its very own piano bar and what must be the most elegant home cinema in the region – making it the kind of property designed to perfection for people who demand the best in quality and appreciate the finest things in life. For those who desire that very rare combination of a private estate close to the heart of Marbella, Puerto Banús and Mediterranean shores this is very much a property of distinction – a one of a kind jewel in the crown of this region. g Edif. Centro Expo, Blvd. Alfonso Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 863 750. www.panorama.es

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THE STYLE fashion

SCARLET SENSATIONS

EMERALD ENVY

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Talented designer, Hannibal Laguna wowed the crowd at the recent Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Madrid. Marisa Cutillas brings you a selection of gowns ďŹ t for a Queen, marked by the glamour of the colour purple.

A Regal Collection by Hannibal Laguna ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2016 / 65

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SENSUAL SATIN

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PURPLE PERFECTION

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PRETTY IN PINK

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BOLD IN BLACK i www.hannibal-laguna.com

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THE STYLE fashion

Aristocrazy is a relatively new brand of jewellery created for those who love the look of ďŹ ne jewellery that suits all budgets. Take your pick from these stunning items.

ARISTOCRAZY about you

i www.aristocrazy.com

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Dior s by rring d Ea klac

e an

The right accessories will take your look from simple to chic in one fell swoop in the New Year; take your pick from these hot items.

Nec

CONTACTS: BLACK EYEWEAR www.blackeyewear.com CUCKOOLAND www.cuckooland.com CHOPARD www.chopard.com DIOR www.dior.com FOLLI FOLLIE www.follifollie.com NEW LOOK www.newlook.com VERY www.very.co.uk

NEW BEGINNINGS COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

Coltrane sunglasses by Black Eyewear

Purs

e by

Folli Folli e

Rivet waist belt

by Very

Belt by New Look

Mighty Purse Phone Charging Geo X-Body Bag by Cuckooland

Year of the Monkey watch by Chopard

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BEAUTY

Since the launch this year of the new Six Senses luxury spa in Marbella, it has risen to the top of womens’ ‘to do’ lists on the Coast. Six Senses is one of the world’s most exclusive brands, being present in just a handful of the world’s top grand luxe hotels and the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa Marbella is perfectly suited to bring this luxury concept to Marbella. As you step upon large-scale pebbles seemingly ﬂoating on water, or close your eyes and listen to the sound of water ﬂowing down the crystal walls, it is as though you had discovered a unique haven of peace. The design speaks to your heart and soul, with graceful natural wooden features, azure Moroccan tiles and pristine white lounging areas wrapping you in a world of tranquility. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE PUENTE ROMANO BEACH RESORT & SPA MARBELLA

ADVICE

The Hammam Treatment at the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa Marbella

REBIRTH AND RENEWAL

t was kismet that the ﬁrst treatment I experienced at the Six Senses Spa should be the hammam. I can think of few which are quite as ideal for someone who feels stressed and that they don’t get enough ‘me time’. In Morocco, it is common for women to undergo the treatment at least once a

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week; the deep cleansing therapy, involving the use of clay (then soap) and vigorous loofah scrubbing, helps detoxify the pores, but it does much more than that, eliminating tension and fatigue in the process. The sensation of being scrubbed to squeaky clean perfection is one most of us haven’t experienced since childhood and the feeling is both comforting and nostalgic. The magic began with water; the therapist, Aída, led me into a treatment room with its very own hammam (or steam room), and asked me to sit down. She took a wooden bowl of warm water and poured it over my feet, then my legs, upper body and ﬁnally, my head. The sensation was immediately comforting and the warm water flowing gently down my head made me feel deliciously sleepy. Aída then asked me to enter the steam room, to open my pores to the products she would later apply. Every few

minutes, she would enter with a cool towel to refresh my head and neck. The hammam treatment is vigorous and relaxing all at once. I lay on my stomach so Aída could apply a special clay (containing potent antioxidants), rubbing my body from foot to neck with a loofah soon after. Aída says the hammam is her favourite treatment and it shows; the care and energy she displayed while applying the deliciously fragrant products is palpable. I then turned onto my back and she performed the same ritual to the front part of my body, once again from feet to neck. She even gently exfoliated my face, with a special clay formulation, and a gentle loofah scrub. At one point, she washed my hair, and massaged my head. One of the most outstanding features of the Six Senses Spa is its installations; all equipment and furniture is of the very highest

level. The marble table I lay upon was deliciously warm; indeed, all temperatures were just right throughout the treatment – the water, products, massage bed. Above the table, a suspended panel drizzled warm water upon my body, to eliminate the clay. After I was washed and dried by Aída, she led me to the massage room, atop a wonderfully warm (and magniﬁcently large) bed. She began by ringing a Tibetan bowl and gave me a soothing massage, using her hands and forearms to knead away all the stress from my hands, arms, back and neck. The Puente Romano has once again shown that when it comes to luxury, nothing less than being number one is acceptable. The Six Senses Spa boasts a unique blend of inspiring interiors, a highly skilled and attentive staff and a treatment list that is a veritable invitation to Heaven.

i www.puenteromano.com

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GET RID OF STUBBORN FAT DON´T MISS OUR SPECIAL OFFERS

COOLSCULPTING® BY ZELTIQ, A NON-SURGICAL CONTOURING TREATMENT THAT FREEZES STUBBORN FAT, WHICH THEN IS NATURALLY ELIMINATED FROM YOUR BODY. No needles, no special diet, no supplements, no surgery. And most importantly, little to no downtime. It’s safe, medically-cleared

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

BODY SCRUBS FOR Baby Soft Skin

PRODUCTS

Marisa Cutillas brings us her personal selection of top body scrubs for baby smooth skin.

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1 – ICONIC LONDON CHAMPAGNE & GOLD FACIAL POLISH: Facial skin needs exfoliation too. Make it a shimmery, shiny experience with this gentle scrub containing Champagne and pearl extracts. i www.iconiclondoninc.com 2 – MEACHER, HIGGINS & THOMAS ELDERFLOWER & RHUBARB BODY SCRUB: Polish and reﬁne skin with this gentle sugar scrub blended with elderflower and rhubarb extracts, for baby smooth skin. i Available at Marks & Spencer. www.marksandspencer.com 3 – THALGO EXOTIC ISLAND BODY SCRUB: This purifying product nourishes the skin while sloughing off dead skin cells, boasting a potent blend of Bora Bora sand, sea salt, coconut shells, and Monoi and jojoba oils. i www.thalgo.co.uk 4 – LAURA MERCIER BODY & BATH CRÈME DE PISTACHE SCRUB: This creamy product, inspired on the nutty aroma of pistachio desserts, combines gourmand ingredients with almond, praline and hazelnut fragrances. The end product is utterly luscious. i Available at www.sephora.com 5 – CRABTREE & EVELYN CITRON HONEY & CORIANDER SKIN SMOOTHING SCRUB: This gentle scrub freshens skin up with a sweet citrus fragrance. Contains sunflower wax beads, and lemon, ﬁg and honey extracts. i www.crabtree-evelyn.com 6 – THALGO DESCOMASK SCRUB: This creamy scrub contains chondrus crispus red algae, which smoothens and tones skin. Use on rough areas like the elbows, knees and heels. i www.thalgo.co.uk 7 – SABON BODY SCRUB: Based on Dead Sea salt, enriched with natural oils, this penetrating scrub contains a hint of delicate jasmine. i www.sabonnyc.com 8 – RITUALS GOOD LUCK SCRUB SWEET ORANGE & CEDAR WOOD SUGAR BODY SCRUB: Fans of sensual woody fragrances will love this spicy smelling scrub containing one of the gentlest exfoliant products in the world: sugar. i www.rituals.com

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HEALTH

STOP SMOKING TODAY

WITH RACHEL GARROD AND CYTISINE

UPDATE

For many of the millions of people in the world who are addicted to cigarettes, the start of January is ground zero: the chance to be a new person (a non-smoker), to not have to rush off in the middle of a dinner to puff on a cigarette or worry about the many health conditions associated with smoking, to stop feeling like a social pariah… WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

f course, the social aspects of smoking (and the cost involved in keeping this habit up) are the least of one’s worries; much more disconcerting are the many illnesses associated with it – everything from lung and heart disease to various types of cancer and of course, wrinkles. Smoking has been linked to conditions you wouldn’t even dream of, including back pain, since it leads to the degeneration of discs. If you have tried to quit in the past and failed, don’t give up; there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It’s called cytisine, a natural plantbased product which signiﬁcantly increases your chances of success. Cytisine was tested in a large study published in the The New England Journal of Medicine in December, 2014. Placebo-controlled trials involving 1,310 adult daily smokers wanting to quit, revealed that the product almost doubles the chances of kicking the habit at six months. Moreover, it is more effective as a stop smoking aid than nicotine patches, at both four weeks and six months after quitting. In Marbella, cytisine is part of a Stop Smoking programme

offered by Dr. Rachel Garrod, PhD, a renowned physiotherapist from the UK who has worked for the last three years at King’s College Hospital and held the post of Associate Professor of Physiotherapy at St. George’s Hospital. Rachel is a UK PhD qualiﬁed respiratory physiotherapist who has conducted research in exercise for people with COPD and other diseases. Her work includes over 10 years as a lecturer in undergraduate physiotherapy, physiotherapy research and PhD supervision. Rachel, whom I met recently and who blew me away with her friendly personality, has lived in Marbella for the past three years, but she is still part of a UK research team which carries out work in the physiotherapy management of people with chronic cough and performs studies evaluating the quality of life in people with bronchiectasis. Rachel has over 70 papers published on her speciality. She now focuses in helping people quit smoking through a programme which combines the use of cytisine, with three therapy sessions. Rachel explains why cytisine is such a promising new supplement: “It does not produce the same side-effects (nausea, aggression)

as other stop smoking products like Champix. It binds to nicotine receptors, so that smokers don’t feel the nervousness or ‘low’ they can encounter when they try to quit without any help. Cytisine is not manufactured by big pharmaceuticals, which is partly why few people in Europe know about it.” If you are keen on learning more about cytisine or Rachel’s programme, give her a call. Free initial assessment is offered and after that, clients see Rachel three more times, while taking cytisine. “I begin the sessions by helping patients identify the reasons why they want to stop smoking. I also help them with goal setting, action planning and relaxation techniques. Patients are five times more likely to stop if they have professional support.” In part, this is because therapy helps patients overcome the toughest hurdle (the first few weeks after stopping). Says Rachel, “If they can stop for 28 days, they are much more likely to succeed long-term.” As a former smoker herself, Rachel knows how difficult quitting can be: “Smoking releases feelgood hormones, serotonin and

dopamine, which is why it is so addictive.” A combined approach involving supplementation and therapy, then, is your best bet for success. The treatment, thankfully, is affordable: just €250 for the supplement and the three sessions. Rachel also helps people with anxiety and panic attacks, and can aid with asthma management. She can be considered a specialist in all things to do with the lungs and breathing. If you have failed, Rachel’s programme may just be the one that works for you. Contact her and enjoy a smoke-free life, starting today. g For further information, Tel: 652 281 122. Rachel contributes articles to the following blog: www.marbellaazul.com

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THEY ARE NOT FROM ANOTHER PLANET, THEY USE MEDICAL THERAPIES THAT ARE ALSO AVAILABLE TO YOU!

HYPERBARIC OXYGEN

QUALITY OF LIFE

FIRST MEDICAL CONSULTATION

FREE

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) consists of a patient being placed into a hyperbaric chamber where increased atmospheric pressure in used in order for the patient to breathe100% oxygen. Under these conditions, oxygen becomes a medicine and begins therapeutic treatments on the body. The treatment is particularly recommended for reducing inflammation, generally helping wounds to heal, as well as wounds that are difficult to heal, such as ulcers or diabetic foot. It can even be used to prevent cases of amputation. Furthermore, its effects on the post-operative recovery process have been proven as have its support for plastic and reconstructive surgery. It is also recommended for sports injuries, bone fractures, neurological damage, autism, providing relief from the effects of radiotherapy or burns, and reducing stress and chronic fatigue. Specifically, it is the oxygen going through the blood in greater concentration that helps the body on a general level. The hyperbaric chamber at the Hyperbaric Medical Centre is made from entirely transparent material, and has room for one person, allowing for direct communication with medical staff; as well as offering hygienic, comfortable and exclusive conditions with the greatest possible availability of times.

CENTRO MÉDICO HIPERBÁRICO Avda. de España 242. Estepona (Málaga) Tel.: 952 806 796 / 663 418 023

www.centrohiperbarico.com

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6 HEALTH

COOL GADGETS FOR A NEW

YOU

SPORTIIIIS Those who cycle or mountain bike will love this gadget, which tracks your heart rate and provides you with your stats via voice prompts, indicating your heart rate, power, cadence and speed. The gadget hooks up to your sunglasses and boasts an ultra-lightweight frame. i www.4iiii.com

If boosting your ﬁtness level is one of your New Year’s Resolutions, enlist the help of these handy devices, which will help you achieve even the loftiest health and ﬁtness goals.

UPDATE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

NIKE FUELBAND This tiny wrist band contains motion sensors that track your movement throughout the day, converting your activity into ‘Nike Fuel’ points, which you can use to compare your ﬁtness level to that of others. The device also counts the steps you take everyday – make sure your step count is up to 10,000; remember, sitting is the new smoking!

FITBIT ARIA When you are attempting to shed excess weight, it is vital to keep track of your total body mass index; often, a standard scale may not show the efforts of your diet and workouts, since you may be building muscle while losing fat. Fitbit Aria transfers all data connected wirelessly to your computer. It can be used by up to eight people, so the whole family can take the health and ﬁtness challenge together. i www.ﬁtbit.com

FINIS NEPTUNE: If you are a swimmer, then one of the things you may have always dreamed of, is listening to energetic tunes while you are underwater. Finis Neptune is an amazing new device which secures onto your googles and uses bone conduction audio to bring music to your ears. No earphones required! i www.ﬁnisinc.com HAPIFORK One of the best ways to keep your weight down is by eating slowly and mindfully. HAPIfork helps you reduce your eating pace, since it contains sensors that notify you when you are going too fast. The fork will track the length of time you spend eating, the amount of food you consume and the intervals between servings per minute. i www.hapi.com

GRIFFIN ADIDAS MICOACH ARMBAND Wrap this ultra-light nylon armband around your bicep and keep your iPhone close to you, yet protected from the elements. Track your activity or listen to uplifting music while you exercise without having to pause and fumble in your pocket various times during your workout. i Available on www.amazon.co.uk

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HEALTH

VITHAS XANIT INTERNATIONAL WARNS:

One Third of Women Develop Osteoporosis at 50+

Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterised by a progressive loss of bone mass and quality, which leads to a greater tendency to suffer painful, debilitating fractures. Women over 50 have a particularly high risk of developing this disease, so it is vital to make important lifestyle changes as early as possible, to stave off its painful consequences. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

UPDATE

r. Antonio Narváez, Head of the Department of Orthopedicas, Traumatology and Sports Medicine at the Vithas Xanit Hospital in Benalmádena, notes: “Osteoporosis is a seriously under-diagnosed illness, since it does not produce symptoms until the ﬁrst fracture occurs; the most common fractures occur in the vertebra, wrist and hip. It is vital to raise awareness regarding this disease, above all in those who are at risk.” From the age of 50 onwards, around 35 per cent of women have osteoporosis, yet 80 per cent do not know they have the disease. The result is serious disability and loss in quality of life. Although symptoms can be absent, some common signs of osteoporosis include back pain (caused by a collapsed vertebra or a fracture), loss of height, bone fractures which occur more easily than expected, and stooped posture. The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis. Says Dr. Narváez: “The best strategy to adopt is to consume a healthy diet which is rich in Calcium and Vitamin D.” It is also important to get enough sunlight (aim for at least 10 minutes when the sun is high if you are fair-skinned. Be aware that dark-skinned people and the elderly produce less Vitamin D, and many do not obtain enough

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Vitamin D from dietary sources, such as fortiﬁed dairy products and fatty ﬁsh). Vitamin D not only promotes bone health, but also keeps heart disease at bay. A recent study published in the journal, Archives of Internal Medicine, found that those with low Vitamin D levels have more than twice the risk of dying from heart disease over an eight-year period, as those with adequate levels. If you live in a northern country, where the sun never gets too high, consider supplementation (around 2,000IUs are recommended daily in the winter). It is likewise important to avoid habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and to make time in your daily schedule for exercise (especially strength/ weight-bearing exercise). The stronger the muscles surrounding our bones are, the less likely we are to suffer from fractures. “When a patient suffers a fracture, it is vital that their doctor rules out osteoporosis. If this disease is diagnosed, treatment should begin promptly. At Vithas Xanit, we have a Fracture FollowUp Unit coordinated by Dr. Elena Álvarez, where the risk of developing osteoporosis and the

optimal preventive treatments are analysed.” Due diagnosis is also important; if you are aged 50 or above, you went through early menopause, you took corticosteroids for several months straight or either of your parents have had bone fractures, ask your doctor for a screening. You are also at a greater risk of fractures if your calcium intake is low, you have suffered from eating disorders, or you have had gastrointestinal surgery. Also, be on the lookout if you have led a sedentary life, you drink over two alcoholic drinks a day, or you smoke (or have smoked for many years). Bone testing is recommended for all women by age 65 and for men by age 70. If your doctor ﬁnds that your bone density is low, there

are a number of medications he/ she may prescribe, including bone resorption inhibitors. Bone resorption is a problem when it becomes accelerated and bone is broken down faster than it can be renewed. Bone resorption increases when bones are not used – for instance, when a fracture occurs and the bone beings to shrink (astronauts also experience considerable bone loss while experiencing zero gravity!). “You might be prescribed estrogen, calcitonins, bisphosphonates, raloxifene, monoclonal antibodies, etc.,” says Dr. Narváez, adding, “patients should also ensure that they consume healthy food daily, containing vitamins, oligo-elements such as magnesium, etc.” There are many small steps you can take to keep osteoporosis at bay. Lead a healthy lifestyle, eat well and prevent falls by wearing low-heeled shoes. Install grab bars in your shower and make sure that getting in and out of bed is a breeze. e

g www.xanit.es 12/17/15 1:23 PM

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

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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

thepro NEWS /ENTERPRISE / LOCAL BUSINESS

/PROFILES / FINANCE / LAW

Compiled by Marisa CUTILLAS

Walls of the World – A New Artistic EndeavoUr from Art for All in the World Art For All In The World recently launched its first ever Walls of the World campaign, whose aim is to make art and culture accessible to everyone in a radically inclusive way. The organisation is inviting a total of 100 artists from 80 countries around the world to participate in this event by painting a surface in their geographic location. Their visual messages should convey the peace we need in our world, a world that is now subjected to increasing environmental challenges and political unrest resulting in senseless murders through terrorist acts. All completed walls will be photographed to unite all 100 walls as one large image. The dynamic combination of worldwide paintings will be projected onto a giant surface in Málaga. i www.artforallintheworld.org

QuirOnsalud Medical Centre Opens in Málaga

The Quironsalud Hospital Group will be opening a brand new medical centre in Málaga, in the iconic area of La Malagueta. The new centre, measuring over 800m2, will house different specialist departments, including Women’s Health (mammograms and ultrasound scanning), Odontology and Orthodontics, Cardiology, and Oral and Maxilofacial Surgery. i www.quironsalud.es

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IBEROSTAR OPENS NEW ESTABLISHMENTS IN IBIZA AND ESTEPONA Iberostar has announced the opening of two new hotels: the Iberostar Santa Eulalia Ibiza and the Iberostar Costa del Sol (in Estepona). The Santa Eulalia Ibiza, located on the frontline of s’Argamassa beach, is a four-star hotel boasting Premium categorisation and 230 rooms. The Costa del Sol hotel, meanwhile, is a 10-minute drive from Puerto Banús. It has 265 rooms, most of which offer majestic sea views. i www.iberostar.com

LA CALA RESORT HOSTS ALPS TOUR GOLF QUALIFYING SCHOOL The ﬁrst and ﬁnal stages of the Alps Tour Golf Qualifying School will be taking place at La Cala Resort, bringing together over 250 players from 19 countries. The classifying circuit is a gateway to the Challenge and European Tours, thereby attracting many well known Spanish and international players, including Javier Ballesteros (son of the legend himself, Severiano Ballesteros). This is the fourth year in a row that La Cala has hosted the event, which is undoubtedly one of the most important for top golfers. i www.lacala.com ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2016 / 83

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Mijas Mayor Visits Revelation Television Studio The Mayor of Mijas, Juan Carlos Maldonado and his Deputy, José Luis Pérez Rojano, paid a visit to the Revelation Television studios recently. The Mayor was invited to a Champagne reception to meet the management and staff and take a tour of the studio, where he saw the television sets from which live shows are broadcasted, the editing room and the control room. The Mayor was received by Howard Conder (Founder of Revelation Television), Lesley Conder (who manages the scheduling of programmes, Alan Tun (Chief Operating Officer), Miles Conder (Studio Manager), Cyrus Fernando, (Presenter and Director and Producer of live programmes), Rachelle Fisher, (Presenter and Producer), Hugh Jackman (Presenter), and Felicity Corbin-Wheeler (Guest Presenter). i www.revelationtv.com

Swans School Football Stars Shine

The Swans under-13 squad were victorious at the recent Sotogrande International Schools tournament. The tournament is one of the biggest international school events of its kind in Europe, with 10 international schools represented, so the school is very proud of the pupils' achievement. The boys lifted the trophy after some hard fought victories over local rivals, celebrating the fruits of their authentic team effort. i www.swansschoolinternational.es

A Busy Festive Season For Cudeca

Cudeca volunteers and supporters showed they had plenty of heart at a number of fundraising events, the proceeds from which all went to the hospice. Some of the most successful events included a Christmas party at Valparaiso, a Thanksgiving party and a Christmas jamboree. Cudeca members also concentrated their efforts on selling the organisation’s 2016 calendar. i www.cudeca.org

Alain Afflelou Opens Fourth Shop in Málaga

Alain Afflelou is known for its stylish, affordable eyewear and recently, it opened its fourth shopin Málaga, at the C.C. Carefour Alameda. This takes the company’s total to 300 shops in Spain (Andalucía alone is home to 37 shops). i www.alainafflelouoptico.es

YPAMA Abogados Presents Conference on Effects of PGOU Nullification Yolanda Palencia of YPAMA Abogados recently led a conference regarding the effects of the nullification of the 2010 planning law (PGOU) on the development of the municipality and on homeowners. Palencia enlightened her audience on how to interpret the 1986 law, which is now theoretically in force once again. i www.ypamaabogados.com

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Paralympic Swimmer Enhamed Enhamed Launches New Book

Paralympic Swimmer and Coach, Enhamed Enhamed, recently presented his new book, Iron Mind, to members of the press at Club de Padel Los Naranjos. The book focuses on the importance of overcoming obstacles. Enhamed has achieved the best ever results in Paralympic swimming, taking home four Gold Medals in the Paralympic Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008. He additionally holds three world records (50 and 100 metres, butterfly), one Paralympic record (100 metre freestyle) and two European records (200 and 400 metres). i For further information, www.enhamed.com

International Black & White Association Holds Art Exhibition

The International Black & White Association recently held a colourful painting exhibition called Tolerance 1000, which highlighted the importance of accepting and embracing individuality. This was one of many cultural events held by the Association, which seeks to promote tolerance and contribute to international respect and peaceful understanding between people of all nations and cultures. Join the association to help make a difference and meet like-minded people with a noble vision. i www.ibwassociation.com

Estepona Lifestyle, New English Programme on Radio Estepona Radio Estepona (107.2 FM) is proud to announce that it has a brand new programme called Estepona Lifestyle, produced by Acedo Torregrosa Comunicación and presented by Emma de Aceda and colleagues. The show will cover local news, reports, interviews and weekly events. It can be enjoyed every Saturday from 2pm onwards, with repeat broadcasts throughout the week.

Benahavís DFAS Christmas Dinner Over 70 members and guests of the Benahavís Decorative and Fine Arts Society enjoyed a delicious Christmas Dinner at El Paraiso Golf Club, enjoying entertainment by antiques expert and TV celebrity, Eric Knowles. Eric regaled the audience with stories of his youth and his life in antiques, interspersed with some lively jokes. The Benahavís Decorative and Fine Arts Society hold regular lectures at the Sala de Actos in Benahavís Town Hall and offers a range of fun cultural events. The next lecture is on January 26, 2016 at 6:30pm. Lecturer Chloe Sayer will explore The Aztec Legacy. i www.benahavisdfas.com

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Aloha College Year Nine Chocolate Challenge As part of Aloha College’s ongoing Futurewise Careers Programme, all Year Nine students took time out from lessons to participate in an Enterprise Challenge. Students worked in teams in the Hall, closely directed by John Burnip from Inspiring Futures. Their challenge was to turn their team into a small business with the aim of creating, packaging and marketing an exciting new chocolate brand. A total of 10 teams launched their products in front of a panel of judges, who were looking for creativity, teamwork, a strong product and clear marketing message and they were not disappointed. Elsewhere, Aloha students took part in an inter-school creative writing event, the results of which will be announced early next year. i www.aloha-college.com

Lucas Fox Launches Property Lounge

Lucas Fox Marbella has consolidated its position as one of the region’s fastest growing agencies with the inauguration of a new Property Lounge, in the upmarket area of Nueva Andalucía; the ‘lounge’ accommodates its six multilingual staff, including British-born Partner, Stephen Lahiri. "Since its inception in 2010, Lucas Fox Marbella has grown to become a key driver of the Lucas Fox business,” comments Mr Lahiri, "We are seeing increasing numbers of buyers year on year, a greater number of transactions and growing demand for both new development and re-sale properties.” Lucas Fox is Spain’s fastest growing independent real estate agency and this year celebrated its 10 year anniversary. It now boasts 13 offices in key cities and the most desirable Spanish coastal regions.i www.lucasfox.com

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business THE PRO

moneycorp

The Ideal Way to Move Money Internationally Cesar Crespo is beaming on the day of our meeting. Having taken over the post of Regional Manager of Moneycorp just this year, he states, “I am really pleased to have joined Moneycorp during a time when our services are in such high demand.” WORDS Marisa CUTILLAS Photography Courtesy of Mugge Fischer

nlike typical financial institutions, Moneycorp has been specialising exclusively in currency exchange for thirty-six years and last year the company transferred just under GBP14 billion in foreign currencies on clients’ behalf. Moneycorp is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and is a registered Money Service Business with HMRC so you know that your money is always in safe hands. As an authorised Payment Institution, the company is legally required to safeguard client funds. For an excellent review of its services, see Feefo.com, where over 3,825 users give the company a 97 per cent rating. To enlighten me on how much better an exchange rate I could receive from Moneycorp, Cesar shows me a comparison for an amount of £100,000. Compared to the exchange rate I would receive from some of the UK’s most famous

banks, I could save as much as £4,000. “The amount saved can be impressive,” says Cesar, “especially for those purchasing a home. The savings alone can be sufficient to help in the furnishing of their new property.” Cesar notes that most of his clients on the Costa del Sol hail from the UK, Scandinavia and a mix of other non EU countries: “Many have identified a property they intend to purchase and want to ensure they don’t lose out on the currency exchange; others rely on us to exchange their pensions into euros.” Moneycorp can help you with: ZZ Purchasing a home in a foreign country “The company deals in over 90 currencies and its online platform gives clients access to up to 27 currencies, ” Cesar says, adding, “Timing is everything when you are making a large transfer. We assign each client their own personal dealer,

who will take the time to understand each client’s currency requirements and offer specialised tools to protect them from currency fluctuations to make the best transfer at the best possible time.” Other services offered include “forward contracts,” which fix an exchange rate for up to two years in advance to ensure you are not negatively affected by exchange rate fluctuations during the purchase period. “Clients can also target a specific exchange rate via a ‘Watch Order’. Moneycorp is able to act quickly. For example, “If the transfer needs to be made speedily, we can arrange urgent exchanges and transfers that in most cases reach the recipient’s bank account within the same day.” *Priority sending to Spain. ZZ Making smaller transfers Clients can go online and opt to make regular payments. Cesar says, “For recurring transfers, we have a fully automated Regular Payment

Plan (RPP), under which we collect your sterling via direct debit and automatically send the foreign currency abroad.” Transfer schedules are flexible, so you can make payments weekly, monthly, bimonthly or as desired.” Some of the many typical transfers include mortgage payments, utility bills and paying for maintenance fees abroad. ZZ Converting rental income back into your desired currency “Some clients rent their holiday homes abroad and wish to have access to monthly payments in their own currency.” ZZ Returning Home / Repatriation Clients who have just sold their home or business in Spain can save by using Moneycorp’s services via our exclusive Currency Repatriation Service. ZZ Transferring money to friends and family overseas When gifting money to friends or family, the latter should ideally receive the maximum amount possible; Moneycorp can ensure this is the case. Becoming a Moneycorp client is easy. “All it takes,” says Cesar, “is identification such as a passport and proof of address typically suffice.” You can then rely as much as you need on your personal dealer or make your own exchanges when you see fit via the online service or your personal dealer at Moneycorp. The online accounts are simple and straightforward, so making the transaction you need is quick and easy. With over 125,000 traded customers and over 97 per cent of clients stating they would rely on the company again, Moneycorp offers a great service and ensures that your money remains just that: yours, with no hidden fees, no over-the-top commissions and with the peace of mind of knowing your money is with a company you can trust. g Centro Comercial Cala Sol Blvd. La Cala, Edificio B, Local 10, La Cala de Mijas. Tel: 952 587 657. www.moneycorp.com/spain or email essential@moneycorp.com

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THE PRO law

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG

Marbella certainly offers quality of life but noise and nuisance can ruin even the most idyllic setting. Determined to put an end to disorder, Marbella Town Hall is listening these days to complaints and taking action.

he European Court of Human Rights and the Spanish Constitutional and Supreme Courts have ruled that excessive noise emission into homes constitutes a violation of the right to rest and to domestic privacy. They are disruptive to one’s personal and family life, and a basis for claiming damages. If the noise is of such duration, intensity and nature that it would have affected the victim’s health, article 325.2 of the Criminal Code defines it as an offence subject to imprisonment of between two and five years. Before arriving at such a point, however, we suggest you complain to your Town Hall. If you live in Marbella, the 1996 noise and vibrations regulations (called Ordenanza de Ruidos, in its abbreviated form) as well as the rules on protection of public areas (Ordenanza sobre Protección de los Espacios Públicos) apply. The former can be downloaded from the Town Hall’s website (www.marbella.es). However the latter is not available online, despite being in force. It was published in the Málaga Official Bulletin of 27th September 2010 and may be downloaded from www.bopmalaga.es. Both regulations offer citizens ample protection. Maximum permitted noise levels improve on the minimum standards set out in European Directive 2002/49, as well as Andalusian Decree 6/2012 and the national law. Your Town Hall’s regulations prevail – should they exist – whenever they improve on the abovementioned decree.

& NUISANCE

NOISE

Noise levels are set depending on the time of the day and the area. In Marbella, night time is between 10 pm and 8 am. Outdoor permitted noise levels in commercial areas are 65 decibels (dB) during daytime and 55 dB at night. For residential areas, those levels are reduced to 55 and 45 dB respectively, and they are reduced further another 10 dB in areas surrounding hospitals and clinics. Indoor measurements are considerably reduced of course, and they depend on the part of the house where measurements are taken, windows closed and curtains drawn. Maximum levels permitted in bedrooms and living rooms are 30 dB during daytime and 28 dB at night (i.e. deﬁnitively quiet and peaceful); in bathrooms, kitchens and corridors, levels are 30 – 35 dB; and in entrance halls, etc. noises shouldn’t exceed 35 - 40 dB. Vibrations are regulated too. Regulations distinguish continuous noises or vibrations from intermittent ones, whether following a regular pattern or random (e.g. dog’s barking). These are different to occasional noisy activities, which are permitted (e.g. construction works). They may not exceed 90 dB, a noise level equivalent to heavy road trafﬁc or last longer than necessary. Other activities, installations (e.g. an air-conditioning unit) and uncivil behaviour, are forbidden. Owners and managers of premises open to the public are responsible for their client’s conduct both on their premises and the areas immediately surrounding them.

Owners of pets are responsible for the nuisance they might cause. And of course, shouting, singing and the like, especially during night time, is banned. Should you wish to complain, a good starting point is a polite but firm letter addressed to those responsible for the inconvenience. Just as offering to talk is vital, so too is informing the offender of your intention to take action, should the noise continue. You might want to share some of the proof you could have gathered, including links to videos, audio files or pictures. Your letter should be sent by recorded delivery Burofax, certifying its contents. This may be done at any post office or online, selecting Burofax nacional including the options acuse de recibo and certificación de entrega. A couple of pages cost around €30, money well spent if the nuisance stops. Should the addressee not be found at home, a notice will be left and it is their responsibility to pick it up. It’s your right to communicate with them and it’s deemed they had a chance to receive your notice. You can file a complaint yourself (online too), though seeking professional assistance can be very useful. Hiring the services of an approved sound lab to measure noise levels is highly recommended. Also, asking a Notary to come and witness facts, producing an Acta de Presencia (around €300), is very useful. The notary can take pictures and the contents may only be disputed by criminally prosecuting the notary for falsifying the document. e

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THE VIBE

Aloha College Christmas Bazaar Christmas time is always one of the merriest for children and adults, as was evident at the recent Aloha College Christmas Bazaar. The event, which featured a raffle, singing and dancing, and a plethora of stalls including a great variety of international food, raised more than €27.500 which will go towards additional equipment for the new Arts and Sports Hall, including trampolines and professional gymnastic equipment. i www.aloha-college.com

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give” – Winston Churchill

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PHOTOGRAPHY courtesy of aloha college 12/17/15 1:36 PM

THE VIBE

Bar-Baró Opens at Finca Besaya Trendy dining establishment, Finca Besaya, celebrated the opening of their brand new winter bar, Bar-Baró, with a swish party featuring cocktails, canapés, gogo dancers, live sax by Pablo Melgar and live-spun music by Resident DJ, Dany, and DJ Verox from Beach Grooves Radio. i www.fincabesaya.es

“I drink therefore I am” – W.C. Fields

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THE VIBE

Feydom Furniture Store Launch Part of a successful international furniture store chain, Feydom celebrated its launch in Marbella with a Grand Opening Christmas Party, featuring Champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Guests visited the store in Nueva Andalucía and marvelled at the selection of multifunctional, award-winning, innovative furniture on display. i www.feydom.es

“Fashion is what you buy, style is what you do with it” – Anonymous

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PHOTOGRAPHY kevin horn 12/17/15 1:36 PM

THE VIBE

La Vida Model Management Launch La Vida Model Management is a new model and talent agency which recently opened in Marbella with a party at Les Cubes restaurant. The event featured live DJ music, flowing drinks and canapés, as well as a fashion show presenting clothing by three top Marbella boutiques. i www.lavidamodelmanagement.com

“Beauty is being the best possible version of yourself on the inside and out” – Anonymous

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THE VIBE

Solvilla Christmas Lunch Top Norwegian real estae firm, Solvilla, recently invited business associates and friends to their Christmas party, held at swish restaurant, Les Cubes. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal and conversed about the renewed faith in Marbella. Here’s to great success in the property sector in 2016! i www.solvilla.no

“The home should be the treasure chest of living” – Le Corbusier

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PHOTOGRAPHY courtesy of solvilla 12/17/15 1:36 PM

PUENTE ROMANO BEACH RESORT & SPA

DISFRUTA DE LAS VENTAJAS DE SER SOCIO · MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Pases temporales de 1, 3 y 6 meses Acceso a la zona de aguas, gimnasio, tratamientos, asesoramiento de salud y bienestar. Descuentos en el club de tenis, el restaurante Sea Grill y noches de hotel. Nuevos programas de yoga

1, 3 and 6-month passes Spa Facilities, Gym, Treatments, Health & Wellness Assessment. Discounts at the Tennis Club, the Sea Grill Restaurant and room nights. New Yogic Programmes

información y precios · information & price lists

reservations-marbella-spa@sixsenses.com

Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa · Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n · 29602 Marbella · Málaga · Spain · T (+34) 952 820 900 · puenteromano.com

THE LEISURE travel

MAGICAL M A WORDS IAIN BLACKWELL PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK AND COURTESY OF HOTEL MEDINA LOFT & SPA

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Marrakech evokes the real Morocco more than any other destination, in a country full of contrasts. Strings of Atlantic-swept sandy beaches give way to the lofty Atlas Mountains with Alpine-like scenery and even skiing, meanwhile fertile plains stretch further southwards as the land faces the prevailing onslaught of the Sahara Desert.

M ARRAKECH Jamaa el Fna is a hive of activity day or night ÂŠ Nowak Lukasz â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shutterstock.com

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Courtyard of Riad Amlal in Marrakesh

ocated on an incredibly level plain, Marrakech was founded in 1062 by Youssef bin Tachfin, the first Almoravid Sultan who came from Mauritania crossing the high Atlas Mountains. The Haouz Valley was a perfect base to strategically control all traffic and trade arriving through the mountain passes and where sustainable palm groves and orchards could be grown. There was only one problem: a lack of water. This was overcome by channelling underground canals from the not-so-distant mountains, abundant in water, and sinking an extensive network of wells. The city grew fast and strong using much of the wealth sequestered during the Almoravid conquest of Spain. In actual fact, many artisans from Moorish Spain were employed in erecting the elegant Andalusian-style buildings that were to grace the city, whose influence is still clear to see today. Likewise, the city walls and ramparts, built from the local red earth and although eroded, restored and rebuilt over the centuries, remain basically the same to this day. Modern Marrakech is a bustling cosmopolitan city and without any doubt, Moroccoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s number one tourist destination. The city planners deserve endless commendation for their enforcement of two basic rules. No building is permitted to have more than five storeys above the customary commercial basement premises and all edifices have to be finished in the same terracotta of an earthy pinkish hue, giving the metropolis a remarkable radiance when the sun is shining. Water and electricity will not be connected until such conditions have been fulfilled. The result is an endearing spectacle full of character and tradition. Seen from a distance, Marrakech truly is magical.

Modern buildings in Marrakech

Zara store in Marrakesh

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SCANDINAVIAN COMMUNITY ON THE COSTA DEL SOL. CENTRO IDEA Ctra. de Mijas Km. 3,6 • 29650 Mijas Tlf. (+34) 95 258 15 53 • Fax. (+34) 95 258 03 29 e-mail: norrbom@norrbom.com

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Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret dominates the city

The city caters for its numerous visitors with many luxurious hotels, such as the lavish La Mamounia, which re-opened in 2009 after a three-year $176 million makeover, and the sumptuous Royal Mansour, commissioned by King Mohammed VI and consisting of 53 private Riads set amid magniďŹ cent gardens. Riads, or traditional Moroccan houses, are increasingly prevalent and often offer stylish accommodation set around an enclosed courtyard with a central fountain or pool feature. Designer boutiques and top brand stores are to be found at Gueliz at the heart of modern Marrakech, laid out by the French, on Avenue Mohammed V, where the commercial centre Carre Eden is also located. Inaugurated in May 2014, it includes the likes of H&M, Elite, Gant, Diesel, Guess, Lacoste, Yves Rocher, Nespresso, Starbucks and Carrefour among many others. Nearby, you can lose yourself in the fusion of the medina, a walled warren of meandering streets comprising the souks, which surprise at each turn and where every imaginable handicraft can be bargained for, centered around the spectacle of the Jemaa El Fna square which is best described as a blazon of noise, colour, action and aroma, day or night.

Always time for tea in Morocco

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Menara Gardens and Atlas Mountains

Some of the highlights not to be missed on a trip to mystical Marrakech include the Majorelle Garden, featuring an abundance of flora from all ﬁve continents and containing the former residence of Yves Saint Laurent, who came here to sample blossoms for his perfumes; the Menara Gardens, with its picture postcard lake and pavilion setting against the backdrop of the often snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas; the El Badi Palace, built in the 16th Century by the Saadian sultan Ahmed al-Mansour, known as ‘the golden one’ on account of his vast wealth acquired through the conquest of Timbuktu; the Bahia Palace, constructed at the end of the 19th Century and intended to be the greatest palace of its time, with impressive lattice work and extensive mosaic; and the Koutoubia Mosque, erected in the 12th Century and whose minaret easily

dominates the Marrakech skyline. For the golf enthusiast, Marrakech offers three 18-hole golf courses: the Marrakesh Royal Golf Club, inaugurated in 1923; the Robert Trent Jones designed La Palmerie Golf Club, part of the Palmerie Hotel & Resort complex; and the newer but challenging Amelkis course. Further afi eld, a visit to the Atlas Mountains beckons or you could even consider staying at Richard Branson´s deluxe mountain resort of Kasbah Tamadot, 50 kms south of Marrakech in the Ouirgane Valley (see our article in this edition). It’s possible to ascend to the Kasbah de Toubkal, where Martin Scorsese filmed Kundun and you can have lunch on the terrace surrounded by magnifi cent peaks – at 4,167 metres, Mount Toubkal is the highest of these in North Africa. Berber villages cling

Majorelle Villa and Garden

precariously to the mountainsides, almost invisible from a distance due to their blending into their backgrounds. Meanwhile, closer at hand, the Palmerie offers camel riding amid its thousands of palms, said to be the result of a besieging army who camped outside the city walls, living on dates brought with them from the Sahara. Moroccan cuisine is far more diverse than one would imagine and, when prepared well, is a feast on a considerable scale and not just for the taste buds. There are countless top quality restaurants in Marrakesh, offering international and traditional Moroccan cuisine, such as the Palais Jad Mahal, complete with avant-garde show and belly dancing or the Dar Yacout, an impressively decorated and restored building of several floors situated in the medina.

Ascent of Mount Toubkal

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The intricacies of traditional Moroccan design

Suite in the Medina Loft Hotel & Spa Rooftop pool at the Medina Loft

To sum up, Morocco is well worth visiting and more and more people are awakening to the realisation that its an exciting destination and Marrakech is a highlight not to be missed. Ever-improving travel connections and accommodation possibilities, coupled with a stronger control by the authorities, markedly reducing the ‘street hassle’ element, have seen to that. It’s a certainty that those who do so will return in future and will also arrive home laden with handicrafts, for this is a country of artisans, where the old skills of working with wood, ceramics, metal, leather and textiles have not been lost to antiquity, but have been passed down from one generation to another. Marrakesh exudes this Morocco of old, with its medina, souks and kasbahs as well as its more modern city centre, boulevards, suburbs and residential areas. We flew with Royal Air Maroc from Málaga via Casablanca and stayed at the Hotel Medina Loft & Spa near to the centre, a somewhat unique apart hotel which offers fully-equipped and very contemporary spacious suites (minimum of 85m2) with all the services of a 5 star hotel: reception, restaurant, spa, massage, hammam, etc. They can also arrange guides and chauffeurdriven transport: our driver, Nourdine, who took us everywhere, was very reliable and great fun. Photos: www.medina-loft.com/eng/galerie-photos Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzZIIEZL4W4

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Skin aging is a process that is undeniably changing the appearance and characteristics of our skin. Factors such as age, hormones, sun exposure and tobacco are linked directly to this process. Aesthetic treatments can combat cellular aging as effectively as facial rejuvenation surgery. Dr. Mario Arques has a unit dedicated exclusively to aesthetic medicine procedures, providing excellent results without surgery for many common problems. A highly qualified team dedicated to skin, health and beauty that seeks as its main goal, true to the philosophy of the doctor, to provide full patient satisfaction with the final result and offers a full range of solutions that care for the youth of the skin and ensure a radiant look.

Dr. Mario Arques who has been dedicated to medicine for 20 years, graduated in Medicine and Surgery from the University of Granada in 1995 and with a Masters degree in Aesthetic Medicine by the Rey Juan Carlos University in Madrid. He began his career in aesthetic medicine through participation in numerous accredited courses and by completing a Masters in Aesthetic Medicine at URJC. He then went on to hone his medical skills in the Andalusian Health Service, where he worked at an advanced level of Clinical Management in Almanzora for the Agency for Health Quality in Andalusia. He is still training in prestigious academies and holds workshops and conferences in national and international locations. He is a pioneering physician incorporating the latest techniques for the implementation of beauty treatments, as well as the highest quality professional products in the field with the ultimate exclusive ageLOC technology treatments.

Urbanizaci贸n Alzambra- Vasari n煤mero 1 Puerto Ban煤s. Marbella Collegiate member 111107877 info@Arquesclinic.com 路 www.arquesclinic.com

tel. 662 408 408 Doctor Mario Arques/Arques Clinic

THE LEISURE hotel A Busy or Relaxing Stay

Although what most appeals may simply be soaking in the Jacuzzi or enjoying a lovely meal at the restaurant, you will find plenty at the Kasbah to keep you occupied. While the hours away at the library (where you will find books, DVD players, games and a log fire to snuggle up to in the cooler months); chill at the Asmoun Lounge (with its pool table, music player and fully stocked honesty bar); or pamper yourself at the Asounfou Spa (where you can select from a host of relaxing treatments, including a traditional Moroccan Hammam scrub). The resort entices fitness lovers with trekking and mule trekking expeditions, a gym and two floodlit AstroTurf tennis courts. Cinephiles, meanwhile, will enjoy cinema evenings, featuring Moroccaninspired films.

ROCKING THE

Flavour and Spice

KASBAH TAMADOT

Those for whom luxury, exclusivity and uniqueness are vital qualities in the choice of a holiday destination, may have already experienced Virgin Limited Edition: Sir Richard Branson’s collection of unique retreats and luxury hotels in areas as diverse as Mahali Mzuri (a tented safari camp in Kenya), Necker Island (one of the British Virgin Islands) and Mont Rochelle (close to Cape Town). This month, however, our eye turns to somewhere far closer and, in our view, more exotic: the Kasbah Tamadot, the dream of Branson’s parents come true. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF VIRGIN LIMITED EDITION

he mogul himself explains: “In 1998, I went to Morocco with the goal of circumnavigating the globe in a hot air balloon. My parents found a beautiful Kasbah ensconced in the High Atlas Mountains, and dreamed of turning it into a wonderful Moroccan retreat.” Branson didn’t fulﬁl his parents’ wishes just then, but he did buy the Kasbah, and very recently, turned it into the magical destination it now is. The property, comprising 27 bedrooms and suites, is the ideal spot for a bit of rest and relaxation. It boasts epic views over Mount Toubkal and the quaint Berber villages that dot the area. The Hotel is a veritable artistic and architectural treasure trove, with magniﬁcent touches everywhere you turn, including beautifully carved doors and ceilings, intricate tapestries and works of art.

Location, Location… The Kasbah Tamadot is just a 45-minute drive from Marrakech airport, or an hour away from central Marrakech. Nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, it is close to the village of Asni, which can be found on the route to North Africa’s highest peak (Mount Toubkal). The grounds contain a complex labyrinth of gardens, staircases and courtyards, which make for lovely long walks, as one discovers each magical nook and resting area.

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No visit to the Kasbah would be worth its salt without favouring ﬁne Moroccan cuisine, and the Hotel’s Kanoun Restaurant (with a romantic dining area boasting excellent views) is undoubtedly a place for gastronomes. Enjoy Berber-style buffet feasts or order traditional dishes from the à la carte menu. Better yet, learn how to cook by signing up for the Kasbah’s cookery lessons. Even kids have plenty to keep them occupied, as they enjoy mule rides, take part in treasure hunts or learn how to cook delicious Moroccan dishes.

A Hotel with Plenty of Heart

Resting for the Night The choice of accommodation is ample at the Kasbah. There are three Superior Rooms – two overlook stunning courtyards and one is part of the Master Suite. If you would like a private balcony or terrace, the Deluxe Rooms will be your perfect match. There are seven in total, one of which forms part of the Master Suite and connects with the Deluxe Suite with pool. All Deluxe Rooms boast views to the mountains, gardens or pool. For something more spacious, try the Superior Suite (with its own balcony or terrace) or the Deluxe Suite, with majestic views of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains. One of the most hotly solicited types of accommodation are the Berber Tents, of which there are five, all boasting views over Mount Toubkal. The tents are fitted with a King-sized bed, and an ample terrace with its own Jacuzzi and sun loungers. The Master Suite, meanwhile, is ideal for large families, since it has three bedrooms, a private swimming pool and its own terrace. Just a few steps away from the infinity pool, this Suite is totally private and absolutely glorious in its detailed design features. On the lower level, the Deluxe Room and Deluxe Suite can inter-connect, while on the upper floor, the Superior Room, with its spacious roof terrace, is an ideal place to enjoy a cool drink and catch a few rays.

The Kasbah Tamadot works closely with The Eve Branson Foundation, which is dedicated to improving living standards in local communities by setting up sustainable enterprises. Purchase a selection of handmade items made by these craftsmen, which help locals in the long-term, or buy a memento for yourself; after all, this will undoubtedly be a holiday to remember.

i www.virginlimitededition.com

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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

MAGNA CAFÉ

A dining room with a view There are more famous championship golf courses on the Costa del Sol, but the clubhouse of Magna Marbella Golf – and in particular its restaurant – rank among the very ﬁnest. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

here are at least two reasons why you should ‘discover’ Magna Café if you haven’t already done so. Firstly, it is one of the most atmospheric spots to enjoy a drink and meet up with friends, and secondly, its location atop a little ridge endows the restaurant with fantastic views across San Pedro all the way along the coastline to Gibraltar. This panoramic vantage makes Magna Café a highly prized venue for the simple but cherished pleasures of watching the sun set behind the Rock as you sip on your favoured drink. Those in the know gather on the terrace after a busy or indeed a languid day to enjoy the visual spectacle in a reﬁned but pleasantly relaxing ambience. Open from ten in the morning to midnight, the complex is much more than just a clubhouse; in fact, its restaurant and bar have secured a following in its own right, allowing businesspeople and social groups to mix with golfers. In other words, Magna Café is a great place to meet for lunch, catch up with friends over a drink or enjoy a lively or romantic dinner in one of the most scenic settings in Marbella.

Ambience and Service The ﬁrst impression as you enter the bar and its attractively decorated lounge area is that this is a stylish establishment. Just the thing for a relaxing drink on a winter’s evening, but walk into the welcoming dining room and the views come into play. Large enough to create a lively atmosphere but small enough to be intimate, with an appealing décor and professional service, it is the ideal location for those who come here above all to sample the remarkably good cuisine on offer.

Matched by Excellent Food This explains the popularity of Magna Café as a lunch and dining venue, but it still has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Highly sought after also for events and group dinners, this restaurant has a very broad appeal, but the quality of the food is right at the heart of it. The menu draws inspiration from a great many sources, but with a sizeable selection of handmade pasta dishes, it slants ever so gently towards Italian cuisine, This was reflected in the beef

carpaccio, a simple but telling classic that says much about the ingredients used and the innate abilities of the chef. At Magna Café it comes with rocket, delightful little mushrooms, Parmesan and truffle oil, accompanied by a sprinkling of pomegranate berries. If one is to guage this starter as a measure then the hillside restaurant in Nueva Andalucía scores very high. The tiger prawns sautéed in a smooth sweet chilli sauce and served with roasted peppers has a somewhat more Asian feel to it, but once again delivers great flavour, texture and presentation – placing Magna Café in the category of serious Marbella eateries. The dining experience had started with a delightful amuse bouche of beautifully smoked duck breast with mango chutney and a Parmesan crisp, a hint of things to come, as we sampled the pleasingly fresh house Chardonnay and crisp Verdejo. If the ﬁrst course was good, the main dishes certainly impressed – and conﬁrmed that this is a restaurant that offers seriously good food. Golfers may very well enjoy one of the best hamburgers around

g Magna Marbella Golf, Calderón de la Barca s/n, 29660 Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. Tel: 952 929 578 www.magnacafe.com 197 ReR Magna.indd 109

for their lunch, but I was tempted by a succulent rib eye steak prepared just right and complemented by tasteful little baked potatoes, crisp vegetables and a beautiful mushroom sauce. Perhaps even better was the black cod in a miso-sake marinade with tempura vegetables – not a dish you will ﬁnd everywhere. Steamed with good timing and skill, the cod was soft and delicious, making this the kind of experience you would deﬁnitely come back for. In fact, the level of the kitchen leaves one wanting to sample more of a menu that offers a good range of choices and then delivers on taste. The helpings are not overly large but certainly not ungenerous, so we opted for a Copa Magna, a wonderful coupe of coffee foam topping a base of vanilla ice cream and a covering of dulce de leche with a sprinkling of nuts and crispy chocolate titbits. Once again, an imaginative and beautifully executed dish whose flavours leave you smiling as you sip your coffee and turn your gaze towards the coastline stretching out into the horizon.

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restaurant THE GOURMET

SUSHI DES ARTISTES WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Play it Again, Saito

ushi Des Artistes is a veritable institution of fine Japanese dining on the Coast and now Founder, Jay Joden, and Head Chef, Saito Taika, are ready for the next step: that of further expansion. Earlier this year, the team opened a London branch, which, on an average night, serves over 300 savvy diners who don’t mind queuing for the standard of meal you could probably only enjoy in Japan’s finest establishments. At this restaurant, good sushi is not only about the right cut, the best quality fresh fish and seafood, or even the romantic ambience (a blend of French and American style décor); it is also about taking the dining experience to the next level. Tradition and innovation meet in dishes that dazzle with the intricacy of their appearance and delight with the simple yet satisfying flavour that only the freshest fish and seafood can provide. Jay and Saito are opening two new restaurants in the upcoming weeks: one in Madrid and another in the centre of Málaga. One could argue that the latter establishment was long overdue. Málaga has not only raised the bar in terms of its

cultural offering (with a string of new museums and cultural events), but has also steadily established itself as an excellent choice for gastronomes on a mission. Malagueños know their sushi and sashimi and are no longer content with the basic varieties found at fast food establishments. Wagyu and kobe beef, pristine butterfish and juicy King prawns are some of the delicacies they crave when they sit down to enjoy a fine Japanese meal. Jay informs me that diners can look forward to a brand new dish: Kobe and Wagyu beef cooked at the table, Japanese Yakiniku style. The wagyu beef hails from the Mori farm (belonging to Jay’s family), one of the top international exporters of this meat. During my visit, the Chefs finely sliced a beautifully marbled Kobe beef and, after a few seconds on the grill, the meat was ready for dipping into a delicious homemade soy-based sauce, spiced with the zing of wasabi. Tender, flavourful, simply unique as far as beef is concerned – the meat was all this and more. My companion and I experienced the Chef’s artistry to the full in dishes like a lovely sashimi platter comprising vibrant salmon and red tuna, as well as the whiteness of seabass, gilthead and scallops, more appetising than I had ever savoured when enjoying the grilled

version. We also tried the amazing butterﬁsh rolls, delicately wrapped around a fragrant truffle interior. Finally, we took the temperature up a notch with the tempura sushi, wrapped in vivid orange roe and housing plump King prawns and avocado inside. We alternated between heavenly bites of Mediterranean magniﬁcence and sips of a fruity Chardonnay from Chile called Causiño-Macul. Sushi des Artistes will not disappoint wine lovers; the restaurant offers a wide selection of wines from New Zealand, South Africa, France, Italy and Portugal. A glance through the menu reveals that there are many traditional sushi and sashimi dishes, as well as nouvelle varieties (such

g Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 857 403. www.sushidesartistes.com 197 ReR Sushi.indd 111

as Saito’s famous foie gras sushi, served with a truffle soy sauce, or the pink roasted duck with fresh black truffle). For dessert, we opted for a sinful sweet called Let Me Try Again, comprising caramel and green tea ice-cream, served with oozing soft chocolate. Sushi des Artistes is the kind of meal that suits the ﬁnest of occasions, since every dish is memorable. The staff is attentive and friendly, the dishes a testimony to the value of sourcing the most exclusive produce in the world, and the ambience, one that is romantic yet laidback all at once. It is only logical that Jay and Saito should share what is bound to be a wonderful experience, with fellow foodies in Madrid and Málaga.

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THE GOURMET news

MICHELIN STARS GARNERED

Colours of the Mediterranean, courtesy of Skina

BY MARBELLA RESTAURANTS

Over the past decade, Marbella has strengthened its reputation as a choice destination for overseas buyers, owing to many factors including the fantastic weather, majestic natural surrounds and highly prized gastronomy. Considering the size of our city, it is a matter of great pride that four local restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars this year, owing to their creativity and passion for innovation. The winning restaurants are:

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SKINA, DANI GARCÍA, EL LAGO AND MESSINA

SKINA

DANI GARCÍA

EL LAGO

MESSINA

This esteemed restaurant in the heart of the Old Town, opened by savvy restaurateur Marcos Granda in 2004, is famed for its intimacy, romanticism and excellent food, which seeks to bring the very best of Southern Spanish produce to our plates. The Chef at Skina is Jaume Puigdengolas, a wizard who imbues traditional Andalusian flavours with avante-garde touches, creating dishes which are “ripe with sensations and pleasures.” The excellent tasting menu is married to a ﬁne selection of wine from some of the best producers in the world. Skina received its ﬁrst Michelin star in 2008 and has since gone from strength to strength. i www.restauranteskina.com

This Chef has done plenty to place Málaga on the lips of the world’s top gastronomes, garnering stars ﬁrst for Calima and now, two for Dani García restaurant, in the trendy Plaza Village dining area of the Puente Romano. The Chef is famed for his substantial tasting menus, comprising artistic creations made with “intense details, a pinch of talent and a sprig of innovation.” Cold, heat, nitrogen, broths and reductions are married to technique and talent, and the result is a one-of-a-kind experience which every true foodie deserves to enjoy. i www.grupodanigarcia.com

Diego del Río is one of the frontrunners of the Zero-kilometre movement in Marbella. Slow, seasonal, healthy produce are staples at El Lago, where dishes are prepared with great care and where traditional Malagueño meat, ﬁsh and seafood, and preparation, take centre stage. A meal at this restaurant feels new yet familiar all at once; it is always like coming home and that alone is a quality to be cherished. i www.restauranteellago.com

Critics and keen gastronomes have heaped praise upon this magniﬁcent restaurant, also in the centre of Marbella and run by founders, husband-and-wife team, Chef Mauricio Giovanini and his wife, Pía Ninci. A star has been in the cards for years, and ﬁnally, Mauricio and Pía’s dream has come true! i www.restaurantemessina.com

At the gala presenting the Michelin guide for 2016, held in Santiago de Compostela, three other restaurants obtained their star: one in Málaga and two closer to home. In the Benalmádena-Fuengirola area, Diego Gallegos has shown that the humble sturgeon can easily replace pork in a wealth of dishes, at Sollo, perched above the verdant sports club of the Double Tree by Hilton Resort and Spa Reserva del Higuerón. If your curiosity has been piqued by news of Diego’s tasting menus, comprising ecologically raised river fish and caviar dishes, don’t miss out on our interview with the man himself, in our February edition. Another restaurant reviewed in magazine, Kabuki Raw, headed up by Luis Olarra, is a fine exponent of the care, detail and harmony present in the very best Japanese cuisine. Congratulations are due to all the Chefs; thank you for making the Coast a truly fantastic place to enjoy the inimitable magic of fine cuisine. e

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THE GOURMET profile

JOSÉ MARÍA CHAZARETTA OF

SUTTON The Quest to Leverage Brand Marbella

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

omo. Lima. Sutton. The triumvirate of ﬁne fusion dining of Marbella. Words which conjure up the mouthwatering flavours of lime, chili, cilantro… and also the image of young couple, José María Chazaretta and his wife Katrin Mikschy, whose aim is no less than to establish Marbella as the leading city for ﬁne international dining. “Marbella is one of the world’s top tourist spots and we aim to consolidate its reputation as a top gastronomic brand.” José aims big, and knows that there is a tough challenge ahead: “We are working hard to apply concepts such as maximum quality of produce, service and personalisation. It is important to approach gastronomy from a client’s perspective, to understand their precise needs. The key is to offer something for everyone. Clients are bound to have both good and bad experiences, everything is a learning process.” Sutton, located on the Golden Mile and the most recently opened of the successful triumvirate, will soon have a baby sister: in Bahrain, to be exact. José tells me that clients from this country, who loved his cuisine, invited him to bring his brand back home and José accepted without hesitation: “Katrin (José’s lovely wife, who is ‘the face’ of the restaurant group) is more cautious than I am, and I am more of a maverick. I never say ‘no’ to new challenges.” The group’s expansion, of course, means lots of hard work for a couple who are also raising a young family. “It is vital that diners enjoy the same excellent dining experience, whether they are at Momo, Lima or Sutton. I don’t teach

my team recipes, but rather, ways of working. The pursuit of excellence is paramount.” José is big on encouragement: “I love it when a diner praises a dish one of the members of the kitchen team have made. I make it a point to let them know they are doing a magnificent job. All employees find praise and appreciation to be motivating.” José muses on the changing nature of his role over the past couple of years. “When we only had Momo, I was mainly the Chef but now I am also the Director of a sizeable team and my aim is for my employees to understand and maintain the highest culinary standards.” José’s vision is firmly centred on the future; the past is behind him and he considers fusion cuisine (“with Asian touches”) to hold the secret to the flavours of the future. He ponders: “Perhaps in 30 or 40 years, there will be a return to Ferran Adrià-style cuisine, but right now, zero-kilometre cuisine with Asian touches is undoubtedly holding sway.” Momo, Lima and Sutton are three distinct restaurants serving up different but similarly inspired menus, with touches from the Orient, and Peru. José hails from the northern part of Argentina, which is linked physically, culturally and gastronomically, to Peru. He explains: “The people of Peru don’t really welcome external influences when it comes to cooking. Theirs is a pure cuisine, containing no chemicals and indigenous techniques are commonly used. Often, these techniques were formulated out of necessity. For instance, one way of preserving meat when refrigerators don’t exist is

by drying it under the sun. When this meat is heated and placed into a tamal, it becomes tender and the taste is just incredible.” For José, Peruvian inspiration is the perfect partner for classic Asian ingredients such as chili and lemongrass; in fact, “the ingredients in both cuisines are similar. In reality, the only difference is the use of soy sauce in Asian cuisine.” José is keen to stress that despite the elegance of his restaurants and the quality of what is served (think mouthwatering ceviches, tender lamb cutlets, gently fried tempura), the experience is reasonably priced. For instance, you can enjoy a two-course lunch daily for just €20. On the day of my visit, I noted that there are six starters and eight mains on offer, with dishes such as a rib eye steak and scallops. José and Katrin are always seeking to imbue the dining experience with something special. At Sutton, there are six waiters, always happy to attend yet wonderfully discrete. José knows that in business, expansion is always a risk. However, as he says, “I can’t say no to people who make me dream or who give me the chance to create something new.” Indeed, his journey is one of constant growth – team spirit, respect for the environment and a love for traditional yet creative cuisine, are the fuel that keeps him moving… and we hope he never stops. g Urb. Marbellamar 9, Marbella.

Tel: 952 770 760. www.suttonmarbella.com

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THE GOURMET wine

CAVA

Cava, the indigenous ‘traditional method’ ﬁzz of Spain – is primarily (95 per cent) produced in the Penedès region of Catalonia.

WORDS CARLOS READ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MARTA CAVA AND PARÉS BALTÀ

ome 200 million bottles are produced annually from around 32,000 hectares of vineyards and just under half of these are sold to foreign markets. First produced in Catalonia in an artesenal way as far back as the 1850s, the name Cava is the Catalan word for a cave, as in French – for a historic underground cellar for ageing wines – given that it was Catalan Josep Raventós of the Codorníu family who, following various trips to Champagne in the 1860s to sell his family’s still wines, decided that it might be a very good business to produce indigenous sparkling wines, modelled on what he had seen, back home. This he duly did as of the early 1870s and today Codorníu and its great rival Freixenet – both just 40 minutes west of Barcelona – are the two not so friendly giants who control what has become a colossal industry.

The former runs a giant tourist operation that includes a tour of its wonderful modernista buildings designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, an excellent museum with spectacular giant split screen movie showing the production process, beautiful gardens, and picturesque underground railway ride that provides a fascinating peek into the labyrinth of cellars three levels deep and many kilometres long, which houses some 100 million bottles. The latter has, by contrast/in retaliation, sought to out-glitz their rivals by spending an untold fortune on Christmas publicity campaigns designed primarily to give their best-selling Cordón Negro brand a seasonal boost. The ads have featured such luminaries as Liza Minelli, Gene Kelly, Raquel Welch, Paul Newman, Meg Ryan, Kim Basinger, Sharon Stone, Antonio Banderas, Demi Moore and Shakira. Back on earth, meanwhile, the Cava DO, founded in 1959, has revised its ground rules

several times since (in 1969, 1972, 1986 and most recently in 1991) and essentially stipulates that the second fermentation must be in bottle – the ‘traditional method’ – as opposed to being wholly tank fermented, and sets some geographical parameters/ restrictions that authorise production in other Catalan areas such as Tarragona and Alella, nearby Valencia and Utiel Requena, Cariñena, and Rioja – but also in far-flung Extremadura. Meantime, given this slightly skewed set-up, it is also worth noting that more than a handful of often much higher quality traditional method sparklers are made as far afield as Chacolí de Getaria and Rueda – and there’s even one producer in Ribera del Duero. These cannot, however, be called Cava, the official classification of which currently bears the unwieldy title of VECPRD (Vino Espumoso de Calidad Producido en una Región Determinada or quality sparkling wine produced in a designated region).

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Try some of these lesser know recommendations:

Z MARTA RESERVA BRUT – 11.5%

Z PARÉS BALTÀ PINK – 11.5%

Z + 500 BRUT NATURE RESERVA 2012 – 12%

Z MARTA ROSADO PASSIÓ RESERVA BRUT 2012 – 11.5%

A blend of Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada, with 24 months in bottle. Pale yellow gold with a pleasing citric lime character and a touch of yeast; full flavoured, round and satisfying; longish but with no acidity to speak of.

Organic Garnacha Blanca from a most enterprising family growers’ collective just west of Penedès – the Agrupació d’Agricultors de El Pla de Manlleu; just 8,000 bottles were produced. Pale green with a restrained grapy nose and tiny, racy persistent bubbles; bone dry and characterised by mineral lemon and unobtrusive yeasty overtones; an agreeable touch of honey rounds off its very long ﬁnish.

An organic blend of 38% Garnacha, 32% Parellada and 30% Macabeo. Pale, diaphanous onion skin colour; subtly fragrant and not altogether dry with hints of apricot and satsuma; good mouth feel; long with an attractive acidic tingle.

A blend of Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada and Garnacha, with 24 months in bottle. Pale onion skin colour; major froth on pouring and then minimal bubbles; agreeably dry with most discreet red fruit elements yet excellent tang; ﬁnishes memorably with good, fresh, acid bite and nice, toasty hints.

WHAT IS CAVA?

The answer is that it takes many forms but is rarely similar to Champagne, which by virtue of being from a cooler climate and made predominantly from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir has much more nervio and is high in natural acidity. This not only makes it refreshing to the point of bracing but often assures a very long life. In Catalonia, Cava tends to be made from a blend of indigenous Parellada (imparting lemon and acidity), Macabeo/ Viura (volume/the middle – but with little real character) and Xarel-lo (which provides alcohol and an agreeable peppery zing); with, for Rosé, Garnacha and Trepat among others. A few producers utilise Chardonnay and Pinot Noir too and this has long been a major bone of contention not least between Freixenet (against) and Codorníu (in favour). The result is a distinctive and fuller flavoured offering than Champagne, which by virtue of a warmer climate has signiﬁcantly less acidity and should therefore be consumed young, not least because the most commercial examples are often made from very high yields (15,000 kilos a hectare), resulting in very light base wines. Cava from smaller producers who grow all or most of their own grapes is therefore much more likely to be more characterful and longer-lived and there are literally hundreds of small, indie producers. 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

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

Gluten-free celicioso

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

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 820 900

FRENCH

GREEK

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

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

Casa mono

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

ruta 40

Valderrama Restaurant

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,

Red Pepper

GRILLS

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

Asador guadalmina

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

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

cabaña nagüeles

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

Open Monday to Thursday from 11am to 2am and on Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 3am. Urb. La Carolina, Marbella. Tel: 951 134 083

El Carnicero

VOVEM

INDIAN

Jaipur palace

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

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

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

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

Besaya Beach

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

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

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

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

El Carnicero 2

Jaipur Purple

Amanhavis

BIBO

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

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

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

El Gaucho

Massala

ambrosia

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

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

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

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

El gaucho de banús

Mumtaz

amigos

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

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

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

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

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

Aidan’s bar & Grill

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

aroma

Brunings

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

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

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

Open Thursday to Tuesday for dinner from 5:30pm. Closed Wednesdays. C/ 4/5 Montemayor, Cancelada (opposite the Farmacia). Tel: 952 887 828

Bahia beach

Al Rolo

barbq artesanal burgers

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner. C/ Jacinto Benavente 5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 656

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

beach house

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm. Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella. Tel: 952 862 149

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

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

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Price guide per head for a three-course meal with wine celima Open every day for lunch and dinner. Hotel Hermitage, Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 895 639.

cerrado del águila

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

and Saturday. CN 340, km. 168, Estepona. Tel: 952 880 126

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

€60 plus

Andalucía Plaza s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000

Fabiola

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

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

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

Finca Besaya

Herrero del Puerto

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

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

Finca El Forjador

hills cafe Open every day for breakfast and lunch, except Monday. Dinner by reservation is possible on Friday and Saturday. Tel: 952 856 171

hermosa

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

El Corzo

c’est la vie

EL GRAN GASTBY

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

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

EL JINETE

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

cortijo fain

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

fonda restaurante el postillón

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

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

EL MIRADOR

funky tapas

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

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Avda. Miguel de Cervantes, 68, La Campana. Tel: 952 814 041

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

El oceano beach hotel Restaurant & Spa

Galeria San Pedro

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

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

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

Don Leone Open every night for dinner. Puerto Banús, Marbella. Tel: 952 811 716

D-wine

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

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

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

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

EL OLIVO

GD Gourmet deli marbella

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

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

El Campanario

El Restaurante del Casino

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. Open for dinner on Friday

Open every day for dinner from 8pm-4am. Hotel

girasol

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

hotel marbella club buffet il mare karma Open every day from 10am until late. C/ Las Violetas 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.

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Jose Echegaray, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 952 113 618

Avda. Miguel de Cervantes, 68, La Campana. Tel: 952 814 041

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

Magna Café

OCHO

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

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

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

La veranda lobby bar

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

oyarbide

Messina

Palmyra

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

LIMA

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

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

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

Tel: 951 275 750

Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

la brisa

La Verandah

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

LA GRANADA DIVINO

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

Mc café

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

MOJO

passion café

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

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

les cubes

momo marbella

puente romano beach club

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

Open Monday to Saturday from 6pm to midnight. C/ Tetuán 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 771 560

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 arcos

Miraflores Golf Restaurant

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

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

La Loggia

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

La Terraza

los bandidos

NELI Gs

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

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

La Terraza

Los naranjos restaurant

nōmō brasserie

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

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

Macaoo beach

NUEVA CAMPANA

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. C/

Open daily for lunch and dinner, except Tuesday.

shanti-som – amrita

La Veranda Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. Hotel Villa Padierna, Urb: Flamingos s/n,

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

Sea grill

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

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

Open Monday to Thursday from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, 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

UNI

6:30pm. C/ Tetuán 9, Marbella. Tel: 951 087 323

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. At the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 820 900

la fiorentina

Skina

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

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

smart café

Venta garcía

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

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

zest

sollo

zozoI

Open nightly for dinner except Sundays. Urb. Reserva del Higuerón, Málaga. Tel: 951 385 622

Open Wednesday to Monday for dinner. Closed Tuesday. Plaza Altamirano 1, Marbella. Tel: 952 858 868

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

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

sutton

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

ITALIAN

tanino

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

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

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

casa tua

the little geranium

Da Bruno

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 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

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

tikitano

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

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

Don giovanni Open Friday to Monday for dinner. At Hotel Finca Cortesín. Ctra. de Casares, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

Frascati

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

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

Trocadero arena

gold restaurant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

la trattoria de marbella

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

The orange tree

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

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

aragona

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

LA pappardella sul mare

Lombardo’s

Swing

The meeting room

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

Al Dente

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

Terra Sana

la pappardella di estepona

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

Open nightly for dinner. Urb. Marbellamar 93, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 760

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

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

Il Tartufo Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from

MADE IN SARDINIA 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

Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 739

Oriental Asia Food

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hanuri KOREAN BBQ & BAR 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

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

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

Kama Kura

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

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

Ristorante Regina

Makitake

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

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

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

seraFina Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner at the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile. Tel: 952 771 798

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

valparaíso Open nightly for dinner. Ctra. Mijas – Fuengirola, km. 14, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 485 996

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

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

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

Osaka 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

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

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

Sukho Thai

Mediterranean

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

Restaurante bar carmen

Sushi des artistes

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. C.C.

Open every day for lunch and dinner.

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CN 340, km 178.5, Marbella. Easy parking. Tel: 952 857 403

Sushi Katsura 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

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

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

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

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. Tel: 952 813 675

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

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

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

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

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

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

under €25

€25 – €40

€40 – €60

€60 plus

www.esteponagolf.com

CENTRO DEPORTIVO EL FUERTE

Finca cortesín golf club

Av. El Fuerte s/n. Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

18 holes, Par 72, Tel: 952 937 883. www.golfcortesin.es

CENTRO DE YOGA Y SALUD INTEGRAL

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

Flamingos Golf Club

CENTRO PLAZA GYM

18 holes, Par. Tel: 952 889 157. www.flamingos-golf.com

Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 074

la moraga bistró

Golf Río Real

Mijas Costa, Málaga. Tel: 951 773 523

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Ramón Areces s/n, in front of El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 448

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 756 733

CLUB DEl SOL

Golf Torrequebrada 18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 442 742

Tennis /paddle classes. Calahonda. Tel: 952 939 595

La red

Guadalmina Golf

Dynamic training centre

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

36 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 883 375

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 775 021

La Cala Golf Resort

FITNESS CENTRE NEW STYLE

La Taberna del Alabardero

54 holes, Pars 71, 72 and 73. Tel: 952 669 033. www.lacala.com

Amapolas, s/n Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 817 916

La Dama de Noche

Avda. El Fuerte, Marbella. Tel: 952 861 624

9 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 818 150

GIMNASIO ESTADIO

La Duquesa Golf & Country Club

on Sunday afternoons and Mondays. Urb. La Alcaidesa, La Linea de la Concepción. Tel: 956 582 700

La máquina

Ramón y Cajal 21. Marbella. Tel: 952 773 804

Cerrado del águila

Fuerte Gym

Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 790 370

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

Restaurante La Marina

Mesón el adobe

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 890 425

Trav. Huerta de los Cristales, Marbella. Tel: 952 828 217

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

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

La Quinta Golf

HAPPY DIVER’S CLUB

27 holes, Par 72.Tel: 952 762 390 www.laquintagolf.com

Atalaya Park Hotel, Marbella. Tel: 609 571 920

mi taberna

La Reserva Sotogrande

CN340, Km77,5. Marbella. Tel: 952 820 900

La Torre

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

18 holes. Tel: 956 695 209

KRAV MAGA SELF-DEFENCE CENTRE

La Zagaleta Golf & Country Club

At Hotel Pyr, Puerto Banús. Tel: 655 689 455

Paellas y Más

18 holes. Members only. Tel: 952 695 209

MANOLO SANTANA RACQUETS CLUB

Lauro Golf 18 holes

MARBELLA GUN & COUNTRY CLUB

Tragabuches

Alhaurín de la Torre. Tel: 952 412 767

Monda. Tel: 952 112 161

Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club

MARBELLA SPORT

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

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

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 784 600

Km 171.5. San Pedro Alcántara. Tel: 952 788 315

Los Naranjos Golf Club

MULTI SPORT

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 815 206

Avda. Picasso 27. San Pedro. Tel: 952 782 801

palapa

Vila do grove

Marbella Club Golf Resort

New Concept Training

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

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

18 holes, Par 73. Tel: 952 113 239

Marbella Golf & Country Club

Monte Paraíso Country Club, Camino de Camoján s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 843

18 holes. Tel: 952 830 500

02 CENTRO WELLNESS

Mijas Golf

Plaza del Mar. Marbella. Tel: 952 900 420

36 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 476 843

P-E SPORTS CLUB

loving hut

Miraflores Golf

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

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 931 960

Urb. Parcelas del Golf, Aloha Gardens, N. Andalucía. Tel: 952 818 357

Monte Mayor Golf & Country Club

qi sport

18 holes. Tel: 952 113 088

Urb. La Alzambra, Marbella. Tel: 952 907 090

Parador Málaga del Golf

SATURNIA REGNA

Alcaidesa Links

18 holes. Tel: 952 381 255

Marbella Tel: 952 761 475, Elviria. Tel: 952 834 835

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 791 0400. www.alcaidesa.com

Real Club de Golf Las Brisas

SEVEN STARS SCHOOL

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 810 875

Alhaurín Golf

Real Club de Golf Sotogrande

Tai Chi & yoga. Pasaje Estrecho, Estepona. Tel: 952 923 055

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 595 970. www.alhauringolf.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 785 014

Sport Club Reserva del Higuerón

San Roque Club

Avda. del Higueron, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 565 761

Almenara Golf

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 613 030

SPORTCLUB ROUTE 66

27 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 582 027. www.sotogrande.com

Santa Clara Golf

Ctra. Mijas, 1.5km. Fuengirola. Tel: 952 461 648

18 holes. Tel: 952 850 111

SPORTING CLUB ATALAYA PARK HOTEL

Aloha Golf Club

Santa Maria Golf & Country Club

CN340, Km 168,5. Estepona. Tel: 952 888 212

18 holes. Tel: 952 907 085. www.clubdegolfaloha.com

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 831 036

TICKET-TO-RIDE

Sotogrande Club de Golf

Cristamar, Pto. Banús. Tel: 952 905 082

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

Atalaya Golf

18 holes. Tel: 956 785 012

Vitality studio

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 882 812. www.master-hotels.com

Valderrama

C.C. Le Village, Marbella. Tel: 952 902 362

DGust

Cabopino Golf

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

18 holes, Par 70. Tel: 952 850 282

El Portalón

Club de Golf La Cañada

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

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 956 794 100

C.C. Alhamar, CN-340 km 197. Tel: 952 934 684

El Paraiso Club de Golf

ATENAS

18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 952 883 835

Barquilla 1. Marbella. Tel: 952 776 240

Hacienda

Estepona Golf

AZTEC COUNTRY CLUB

Open from 1-4.30pm and 7.30 -11pm. Closed

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 952 937 605.

Urb. Riviera del Sol, Mijas-Costa. Tel: 952 934 477

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

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 only for lunch – call for times. Ctra. de Ojén, km 0.5, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 625

Casa Fernando

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

VEGETARIAN

GOLF GUIDE

Cerrado del águila 18 holes, Par 71. Tel: 951 703 355

18 holes, Par 72. Tel: 956 791 200 www.valderrama.com

GYMS & SPORTS CLUBS ALHAMAR GYM

HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO

Ctra. de Istán, Km 2. Marbella. Tel: 952 778 580

TRAIN

Customer assistance T: 952 128 267 General Info T: 902 240 202 Reservations T: 902 240 202 Ave T: 952 128 079

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pets THE GUIDE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Be Careful of RAW FOOD DIETS FOR PETS

The raw food diet is fast gaining ground among pet buffs, yet veterinarians are quick to point out that there is no evidence that consuming a raw diet results in better health for your dog or cat. Some pets actually develop nutritionally-related diseases from eating raw foods, including nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism (from a lack of calcium) and hypervitaminosis (from consuming too much Vitamin A). Make sure to speak to your veterinarian if you are considering any major dietary changes.

Dogs LOWER

ANXIETY in Children In case you were still doubting as to whether or not to bring a pooch (preferably an adopted one) to your home, a new study indicating that dogs reduce the risk of anxiety in children, may just seal the deal. A team of researchers at the Bassett Medical Centre in New York conducted a study involving 370 children with dogs and 273 kids without. The findings showed that only 12 per cent of kids with dogs had anxiety, compared to 21 per cent of those without a dog. The findings are promising, since dogs are a natural anxiety buster that bring a host of additional benefits, including lowering the asthma rates in children.

Cats peeing outside their litterbox is one of the most common behavioural problems reported to specialists though if this problem is happening to you, be aware that the issue can also be attributed to illness. A cat suffering from a urinary infection could, for instance, be unable to reach the litterbox in time, so the first step to take is to visit your veterinarian to find the root of the problem. If the problem is merely behavioural, a few management tips could work. You might try keeping cats away from previously marked areas, or deterring them from urinating in their favourite areas by using specific citrus scented products. Use an enzymatic cleaner to thoroughly remove the scent of urine from the carpet and furniture, and do not stress your pet out by scolding them for the behaviour. Try to encourage marking in more productive ways, via scratching posts or cat trees. Speak to your vet about pheromones and other medications that can reduce marking. Additionally, make sure the litterbox is cleaned every day and the litter changed weekly. Always have one more litter box than the number of cats you have at home.

Why is My Cat

Welcome Party at POINTER VETERINARY CLINIC & SURGERY Estepona

Peeing Outside the Litter Box?

Nazli, Melinda and the team at Pointer Veterinary Clinic & Surgery Estepona celebrated their move to brand new, easily accessible premises with a big tapas party sponsored by Royal Canin and attended by clients, members of the media, and of course, the team’s four-footed patients! Raffle tickets and calendars were sold in aid of local charities. The new clinic is located on km 160.5 of the CN340, and free parking is always available. The Pointer team are highly skilled and experienced professionals who go above and beyond the call of duty to ensure your pets lead long, happy lives. i www.pointerclinic.com ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2016 / 125

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THE GUIDE what’s on Events in January

Until January 8 ART EXHIBITION – MARBELLA

Until January 22 ART EXHIBITION – MARBELLA

The Centro Cultural Cortijo de Miraflores presents Dark Mirror, an exhibition by prolific artist, Víctor Martín, featuring illustrations, 3D models and sculptures. www.invictus-designs.com

The Golfer Sports Bar will be hosting an art exhibition by Roger Cummiskey, comprising charcoal drawings and photographs. Daily from 5pm to 9pm. www.rogercummiskey.com/the-golfermarbella/

Until January 16 ART – CÓMPETA

Until January 30 ART – MÁLAGA

Enjoy a colourful art exhibition at Galería Luz de la Vida in Competa. Featuring works by Eva Joensen, Lieuwke Loth and others. Open Thursdays from 11am to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm, and Saturday from 11am to 2pm. www.luzdevida.es

Until January 17 AI WEIWEI – MÁLAGA

The Contemporary Art Centre of Málaga (CAC) presents an exhibition by one of China’s most renowned contemporary artists: Ai Weiwei. Featuring 12 bronze sculptures measuring over three metres in height, representing animals from the Chinese zodiac. www.cacmalaga.eu

Until January 19 ART EXHIBITION – MIJAS PUEBLO

Margit Björklund, Sinikka Ahokas-Gröhn, Jane Gomis, Gunnvor Sørhus, Richard Wood and Elaine Carlton have put together an exotic mix of eye catching art with an interesting blend of works in oil, silk painting, watercolour, acrylic and textile. At Casa Museo in Mijas Pueblo. www.artistaseclecticos.com

The Russian Museum presents an exhibition by avant-garde Russian artist, Pavel Filonov. Featuring 66 stunning works. www.coleccionmuseoruso.es

Until February 21 ART – MÁLAGA

The Museo Picasso Málaga presents Picasso. Registros Alemanes, an exhibition which explores the bonds and antagonism between Picasso and 18 German artists, including Otto Dix, Max Ernst, Emil Nolde and more. www.museopicassomalaga.org

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.

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, Wednesday and Friday 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

Every Wednesday ART – MÁLAGA

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

FLAMENCO – MIJAS

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

Saturday January 2

Monday January 4

The Symphonic Orchestra of Málaga will be performing a New Year’s Concert at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella at 8pm. www.marbellacongresos.com

Famed crooner, Paloma San Basilio, will be performing alongside Los Chicos del Coro at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella at 8:30pm. www.marbellacongresos.com

SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA OF MÁLAGA – MARBELLA

PALOMA SAN BASILIO – MARBELLA

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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

Saturday January 2 organic Market – marbella

The Organic Market Guadalhorce in Las Chapas is where you can stock up for a healthy start to 2016. The market features fresh, organic produce and goods direct from local farmers.10am – 1pm in Las Chapas, just east of Marbella.

Saturday January 2 to Tuesday January 5 THEATRE – FUENGIROLA

The Salón Varieties Theatre presents Mother Goose, a pantomime, directed by Peter Mitchell. Matinee shows start at 3pm and evening shows at 7pm or 8pm. www.salonvarietestheatre.com

Until Monday January 4 MIMA – MÁLAGA

Kids fair at the Palacio de Ferias Málaga.

This is a massive fair just for kids that runs throughout the holiday season and into the first week of January. It includes a fun fair, rock climbing, ice skating and much, much more! www.fycma.com

Monday January 4 GOSPEL – MÁLAGA

The Mississippi Gospel Choir lights up the Teatro Cervantes Theatre at 10pm. www.teatrocervantes.com

Tuesday January 5 ABBA – MÁLAGA

The Amazonas and Cinema Symphony Orchestra presents ABBA, a tribute act performing all your favourite songs by the Swedish quartet – including Mamma Mia, Super Trouper and Dancing Queen. At the Teatro Cervantes at 9pm. www.teatrocervantes.com

Monday January 11 CULTURAL LECTURE – FUENGIROLA

Costa del Sol DFAS presents Shock! Horror! Probe! Fleet Street: A Newspaper Story in Pictures, which will look at the ups and downs of the notorious ‘street of shame’ via the art that illustrated its stories. At the Salón Varietes Theatre at 4:30pm. www.costadelsoldfas.com

Tuesday January 12 CULTURAL LECTURE – mijas

Costa del Sol DFAS presents Federico García Lorca: His LIfe, Times and

Tuesday January 5

CABALGATAS DE REYES – AT VARIOUS MUNICIPALITIES ALONG THE COAST The Three Wise Men will be visiting central city streets all along the Coast, some on horse drawn carriages and some on luxury cars, throwing out sweets at eager kids. The cabalgatas take place in the afternoon after lunch. For precise information, see the respective websites of the different town halls.

Literacy Legacy, a lecture by Roberta Kettel. At 10:30am at The Danish Club on the Carretera de Mijas. www.costadelsoldfas.com

Friday January 15 and Saturday January 16

The Festival Internacional de Teatro Clásico de Mérida presents Medea, the legendary play from antiquity by Euripides. Starring Ana Belén. The show starts at 8pm. www.teatrocervantes.com

THEATRE – FUENGIROLA

Salva presents The Lady with All the Answers, a comedy by David Rambo, directed by Henrik Hagensen. At 8pm. www.salonvarietestheatre.com

Saturday January 16 GUITAR RECITAL – MARBELLA

Música Con Encanto presents a guitar recital by Antoine Morinière, winner of the first prize at the Seville International Guitar Competition. At Iglesia de la Virginia at 7pm. www.musicaconcencanto.org

ORGANIC MARKET – nueva andalucía Organic Produce Street Market – Guadalhorce Ecologico. Here’s another hugely popular fresh, organic produce market at Parque Lineal, Río Guaiza, Nueva Andalucía. The market runs from 10am – 2pm.

Ski trip – Sierra nevada

Full-day Sierra Nevada ski trip. A 6am coach trip will depart from Puerto Banús and head to the mountains for an exciting day of snow, skiing and fun. Coordinated by Marbella Adventures, the trip costs €25 per person and returns to Puerto Banús at 7.30pm Tel: 691 909 007.

Thursday January 21 to Sunday January 24 Cirque du Soleil – Málaga

The largest theatrical producer in the world is coming to Málaga this month with its Varekai. For details, www.cirquedusoleil.com

Friday January 22 DOCUMENTARY – MARBELLA

Música Con Encanto presents Touching the Sound, a documentary about blind Japanese Pianist, Nobuyuki Tsujii, at Iglesia de la Virginia at 7pm. www.musicaconencanto.org

Saturday January 30 MUSIC – SOTOGRANDE

Música con Encanto presents a classical music concert by the ECM Ensemble de Contrabajos de Málaga. At the Centro Cultural Marina de Sotogrande at 7pm. www.musicaconencanto.org

Tuesday January 19

VIOLIN RECITAL – MÁLAGA Marína Peláez will be playing a recital featuring music by Shostakovich, Brahms and Saint-Saëns at the Museo Picasso de Málaga Auditorium at 8pm. www.museopicassomalaga.org

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www.russellgrant.com

THE GUIDE stars

An opportunity to expand your horizons through a trip or advanced course of learning is worth pursuing during the second half of the month

Russell Grant’s

Monthly Horoscope January 2016 CAPRICORN December 22nd January 20th Salary negotiations and money matters will occupy your attention in the opening days of 2016. This is a wonderful time to land a lucrative job, create a sensible budget and improve your financial situation. Your powers of persuasion will be especially strong, so take this opportunity to talk to your boss or desired employer. Tension between your personal and professional lives could erupt, due to a relative’s desire to spend more quality time with you. Don’t make promises you can’t deliver, especially during the first half of the month. The New Moon on the 10th is ideal for accepting an executive position. Getting a makeover, cosmetic procedure and wardrobe upgrade are among the possibilities. An opportunity to expand your horizons through a trip or advanced course of learning is worth pursuing during the second half of the month. When the Full Moon rises on the 24th, it could be hard to enjoy an active love life as well as an active social life.

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ARIES [21 MAR - 20 APR]

Neither a lender nor a borrower be in the early stages of 2016. Mixing friendship with finance could result in disaster. Fortunately, job prospects are good for you. An opportunity for career advancement will arrive. Try not to be too pushy about having your wish granted. People will take their time to choose the perfect candidate. Practice patience. The New Moon on the 10th will present a golden opportunity to command the spotlight. Running for office is another strong possibility. An exciting travel opportunity might come your way in January and you’ll get a real buzz from an exotic destination with a spiritual connection. Resist the urge to challenge your boss’s authority during the second half of the month. It’s especially important to be professional as January comes to a close. The Full Moon on the 24th brings an end to a period of play. Roll up your sleeves and make a renewed commitment to work.

TAURUS [21 APRIL - 21 MAY]

Career concerns will occupy much of your time in the opening days of 2016. This is a wonderful time to apply for positions, go for job interviews and confer with authority figures about your future. You may consider working for a former employer. Resist the urge to go on a spending spree if you get a rise or land a good promotion. It’s better to put additional income into a savings account. Serious discussions about joint finances could occur in early January; you might have to make a few concessions for the sake of long term stability. The New Moon on the 10th is perfect for travelling overseas, enrolling in an advanced course of study or launching a writing project. An unexpected visitor could arrive in the middle of January adding some excitement to your life. By the time the Full Moon rises on the 24th, you’ll be anxious to make some changes to your domestic life. Don’t make any hasty decisions about relocating.

GEMINI [22 MAY - 21 JUNE]

Being able to showcase your expert knowledge will be challenging in the early days of 2016. It may be better to focus on doing a good job with daily responsibilities. Being a strong team player can pave the way for bigger and better opportunities. Home renovations could take up the lion’s share of your time in early January. This is also a good time to reconnect with people from your childhood and repairing troubled family relationships. News of an engagement or marriage could reach your ears in January. You could even be the one who decides to join lives with a partner. If you’re already in a serious relationship, your amour could realise a cherished dream. Be sure to celebrate their good fortune. An argument with a relative, neighbour or colleague could erupt near the 24th. That’s when the Full Moon will stir up powerful emotions and create lots of unnecessary drama.

CANCER [22 JUNE - 23 JULY]

2016 will be a time of passion, creativity and romance. You may play the aggressor with an attractive newcomer. Pursuing the object of your affection will bolster your confidence and pave the way for some exciting adventures. If you already have a partner, you and your amour may decide to make some profound changes to your life together. You might have to renounce a career opportunity for the sake of this relationship. Making a sacrifice could pay off handsomely on the 10th, when the New Moon favours a fresh start. Combining business with pleasure is a

strong possibility in January; think about launching an enterprise with your amour this month. A big bill could arrive towards the end of the month, causing some tension. Talk to a relative or romantic partner about exercising more financial restraint. Cutting costs will pave the way for a more financially secure year ahead. Be as frugal as possible.

LEO [24 JULY - 23 AUG]

Relationship matters and contract negotiations will characterise the opening days of 2016. Two heads are definitely better than one. Resist the urge to push your family’s way of doing things on a romantic or business partner. Developing a more straightforward method will benefit you both. Big changes are occurring on the work front, resulting in some different responsibilities for you. Don’t be afraid to ask for additional training if you are out of your depth. Nobody can learn a new job overnight. The New Moon on the 10th is ideal for launching a fitness regime. You could see quick results from an improved diet and increased exercise. Feeling better will give you the inspiration to pursue fresh moneymaking opportunities. Resist the urge to go on a big shopping spree if you find yourself flush with funds. Instead of splashing out on clothes, a cosmetic procedure or makeover on the 24th, be as frugal as possible.

VIRGO [24 AUG - 23 SEP]

Give careful thought to your health in the opening days of 2016. Keeping anxiety at bay should be your first priority. Practicing relaxation techniques can make you feel stronger and happier. Set better boundaries with neighbours and relatives whose inconsiderate behaviour is driving you to distraction. You may decide to keep a low profile in early January, just as a means to take better care of yourself. Don’t feel pressure to attend a family function that fills you with dread. You’re better off resting, relaxing and reflecting. The New Moon on the 10th could attract a romantic opportunity. If you’re single, you could meet someone special at work or at a professional conference. Are you already in a relationship? Your amour may be especially attentive. Enjoy spending more quality time together. As January draws to a close, you might have to spend a little more money on car repairs or technical equipment.

LIBRA [24 SEPT - 23 OCT]

You will have to put your money where your mouth is in early 2016. If you want to pursue another line of work, it may be necessary to invest in new equipment or return to the classroom. Do whatever is necessary to promote your cause. Failing to make sacrifices could cause you to lose the support of influential friends, relatives and colleagues. Changes are occurring to your household. Trying to maintain the status quo will be an exercise in futility. There’s a good chance you will buy or sell a property around the 10th, courtesy of the New Moon. This turn of events could give you more time for spiritual and solitary pursuits. Beware of getting into pointless arguments with relatives and neighbours during the second half of January. Agree to disagree about contentious topics like culture, religion and politics. By the time the Full Moon rises on the 24th, you may reconsider a friendship with an annoying egotist.

SCORPIO [24 OCT - 22 NOV]

Household matters will occupy most of your attention in early 2016. This is a wonderful period to make more time for family and domestic pursuits. You have the power to make big improvements. Whether

this means moving to a new place, welcoming someone into your home or buying a home is immaterial. The important thing is to create a living arrangement that makes sense for you. If you’re shopping for furniture and artwork, you could find some nicely priced bargains at an antique fair or flea market. Restoring shabby items to their original beauty has always been a specialty of yours. The New Moon on the 10th could prompt you to take a short trip for business. In addition, you might be able to visit an old friend who lives near this destination. You’ll have to play the aggressor in a budding romance. A career opportunity may not be worth pursuing in the closing days of January.

SAGITTARIUS [23 NOV - 21 DEC]

You may have difficulty seeing eye to eye with an unrealistic relative in the opening days of 2016. The two of you have different priorities and expectations. Trying to convert one another will be an exercise in futility. Fortunately, you will have an opportunity to step out of the spotlight at work. Adopting a more low key role will give you a chance to rest and regroup. The New Moon on the 10th could present a fresh moneymaking opportunity. Working behind the scenes for a powerful executive is a strong possibility. Your love life will heat up in the second half of January; it may be hard to resist the charms of a wild rebel. If you’re already in a relationship, your amour may be anxious to take a holiday. This isn’t the best time to get away. A short trip may be preferable to an extended break, particularly as the Full Moon approaches on the 24th.

AQUARIUS [21 JAN - 19 FEB]

You’ll have a receptive audience for your ideas in early 2016. If you’ve ever wanted to work from home, this would be an ideal opportunity to propose such an arrangement. Alternatively, you might launch a home based business that will give you greater control over your time. It may take some time to strike a healthy balance between your personal and professional lives, so be patient, particularly during the first half of January. The New Moon on the 10th could pave the way for spiritual pursuits. Solitary pleasures like reading, writing and communing with nature can recharge your batteries. Your star power will steadily mount as the month draws to a close; take this opportunity to go for job interviews, auditions and first dates. Vow to listen more than you speak during these meetings. A close partnership will show signs of strain near the 24th, when the Full Moon causes tension between your personal and professional lives.

PISCES [20 FEB - 20 MAR]

Keeping a low profile is strongly advised in the early days of 2016. While everybody else will be running to the gym and demanding meetings, you’ll quietly make progress in your love life. The power of your personality will help you to attract attention at every turn. Resist the urge to mix business with pleasure, particularly during the first half of the month. The New Moon on the 10th is ideal for attending a party; you’ll have an opportunity to rub elbows with some influential business leaders. You might have to decide whether to pursue a personal or professional relationship with an attractive executive. Travelling overseas could be exciting during the second half of January. You will breathe a sigh of relief when an unpleasant assignment comes to a close around the 24th. This will give you more time for social and artistic pursuits; career concerns will be less pressing as February approaches. ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2016 / 129

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THE GUIDE family

Even though the traditional year-end holidays are behind us, Marbella families get the added bonus of kicking off the new year with The Three Kings and all the festivities and fun that comes with them. After that, it’s back to school with New Years’ resolutions to inspire the start of a fantastic 2016.

January Calendar

FAMILY FUN IN THIS FEATURE, YOU’LL FIND RECOMMENDED WINTER EVENTS FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY ON THE COSTA DEL SOL. FOR THOSE LOOKING TO MAKE A CHANGE IN THEIR LIVES, THERE ARE ALSO TIPS ON HEALTH, LOCAL SCHOOLS AND PROGRAMMES THAT WILL HELP YOU FINALLY LEARN SPANISH THIS YEAR! HEALTH & FITNESS – Looking for a way to shed some of those pounds that mysteriously found you this holiday season? No problem! There are fitness centres and programmes to suit every interest imaginable on the Costa del Sol. Check out our complete Health & Fitness section to find great recommendations on everything from martial arts programmes for kids to world-class gyms and personal trainers. For details visit MarbellaFamilyFun.com SCHOOLS & TUTORS – If the kids’ reports cards from last term left you wondering if they are prepared for the new year, check out our recommended tutors in Marbella. You’ll find comments from the community on tutors for everything from History to Maths for all age levels. And if you’re looking for

post-secondary schools for next season, Marbella’s university level options are also increasing with speciﬁc programmes in Business Administration, Design, Fashion, Sports and more. For details visit MarbellaFamilyFun.com IS THIS YOUR YEAR TO LEARN SPANISH? – For those who wish to learn Spanish, no matter what your current level, there are a number of recommended courses available to you in and around Marbella. From group classes subsidised by the City of Marbella to one-on-one programmes for business needs, you’ll ﬁnd great teachers and classes on MarbellaFamilyFun. com SKIING IN SIERRA NEVADA – The Costa del Sol is one of the few places in the world where you can

ski and surf on the same day. So don’t let the balmy weather fool you – your ski destination is less than a few hours away. Whether you want to attack a black diamond run or simply build a snowman with the kids, don’t miss a day with the family in Spain’s premier ski destination, Sierra Nevada. If you need assistance coordinating the trip, The Marbella Ski Club will take care of all the details, from transportation to ski schools. For more information, contact them at hola@marbellaskiclub.com

WISHING YOU A WONDROUS START TO A HAPPY AND HEALTHY YEAR IN MARBELLA. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THESE AND OTHER EVENTS, VISIT WWW.MARBELLAFAMILYFUN.COM

JANUARY 2: The Organic Market Guadalhorce in Las Chapas is where you can stock up for a healthy start to 2016. The market features fresh, organic produce and goods direct from local farmers.10am – 1pm in Las Chapas, just east of Marbella. UNTIL JANUARY 4: MIMA – Kids fair at the Palacio de Ferias Málaga. This is a massive fair just for kids that runs throughout the holiday season and into the ﬁrst week of January. It includes a fun fair, rock climbing, ice skating and much, much more! JANUARY 5: The Three Kings Arrival in Marbella and Parade: The three wise men arrive at Marbella´s Puerto Deportivo at 12pm, where they will be received by the Mayor of Marbella and be granted the key to the city. At 6pm, classic cars will be featured in a parade sponsored by the Town Hall where participants will throw loads of sweets to kids from parade floats. Don’t forget to work on your catching techniques as there will be candies flying about for the duration. JANUARY 16: Organic Produce Street Market – Guadalhorce Ecologico. Here’s another hugely popular fresh, organic produce market at Parque Lineal, Río Guaiza, Nueva Andalucía. The market runs from 10am – 2pm. JANUARY 16: Full-day Sierra Nevada ski trip. A 6am coach trip will depart from Puerto Banús and head to the mountains for an exciting day of snow, skiing and fun. Coordinated by Marbella Adventures, the trip costs €25 per person and returns to Puerto Banús at 7.30pm Tel: 691 909 007. JANUARY 21-24: Cirque du Soleil. The largest theatrical producer in the world is coming to Málaga this month with its Varekai. For details, www.cirquedusoleil.com

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