Happy New Year! January 2020

N º 245 -JANUARY 2020

COMPLIMENTARY EDITION

BLACK BADGE

SCIENCE APPLIANCE

FASHION

e thROARING ROLLS-ROYCE KITCHEN MARC JACOBS WINTER WRAITH

20'S

ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

STAR CHEF ANTONIO PARADING LOVING BANDERAS IN PARMA EL LODGE DABIZ MUÑOZ

I S S U E 2 4 5 • JA N UA RY 2 0 2 0

essential essential magazine® marbella

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b THE GOURMET

h THE LEISURE

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D THE SPOTLIGHT d THE STYLE n THE SPA L THE SOCIAL

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Issue 245 • January 2020

S T A F F PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER

SUSANNE WHITAKER design@essentialmagazine.com

DESIGN & LAYOUT

INMA AURIOLES inma@essentialmagazine.com

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

MONIKA BÖJTI info@essentialmagazine.com

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com

SALES SUPPORT

JAN DENDAUW jan@essentialmagazine.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

KEVIN HORN www.photographermarbella.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PRINTING DEPÓSITO LEGAL

IAIN BLACKWELL, BELINDA BECKETT, MICHEL CRUZ, REBECA ERIKSEN, RIK FOXX, RUSSELL GRANT, ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD, KARETHE LINAAE, CARLOS READ, TONY WHITNEY JIMÉNEZ GODOY A. GRÁFICAS, MURCIA 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

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Here’s to 2020!

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CONDITIONS

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The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein, or be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages.

Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers, or for the copyright of materials used by them. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for Marbella Magazine.

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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La Zagaleta: Spectacular cortijo style villa, set on probably the best plot in the prestigious La Zagaleta, enjoying panoramic views to the Mediterranean. Surrounded by a magical manicured garden of more than 10.000 m². 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 1.030 m², plot 1.03 ha.

E&V ID: W-02B1MT. Price: 6.900.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Nueva Andalucía: New modern villa in a prime location offering comfort and style. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 416 m², plot 1.350 m².

E&V ID: W-02GHK5. Price: 2.495.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Nagüeles: 200m from the beach! Contemporary designer villa in an exclusive location. 4 beds, 4 baths. Built 531 m², plot 990 m².

E&V ID: W-02B0KX. Price: 1.860.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachfront - Golden Mile: Unique, spacious penthouse in a beachfront complex. 5 beds, 5 baths. Living area 177 m², terrace 23 m².

E&V ID: W-02HHRG. Price: 1.195.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Frontline Golf - Guadalmina Alta: Charming villa with a beautiful modern interior design. 7 beds, 5 baths. Built 460 m², plot 810 m².

E&V ID: W-02FP3V. Price: 1.200.000 €. Tel.: 952 85 98 60.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 85 98 60 · Golden Mile Shop: 952 86 84 06 www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

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lu xc E ve si Marbella Hill Club: Spectacular mansion in an exclusive gated community. The villa is set on a very large plot and offers breathtaking sea views. A perfect oasis, with a charming patio, relaxing chill-out areas and several water features. 5 beds, 5 baths. Built 1.200 m², plot 3.131 m².

E&V ID: W-02FQ9P. Price: 4.900.000 €. Tel.: 952 86 84 06.

Beachside - Marbesa: Stylish designer villa close to the beach with panoramic sea views. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 637 m², plot 1.303 m².

E&V ID: W-02H3QV. Price: 3.550.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 55 80.

Beachside - Los Monteros: Unique contemporary villa just 100 meters from the beach! 5 beds, 6 baths. Built 597 m², plot 1.122 m².

E&V ID: W-02H4XT. Price: 5.750.000 €. Tel.: 952 83 20 40.

El Paraíso Alto: Modern and bright villa with beautiful sea views in a quiet residential area. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 430 m², plot 1.030 m².

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Beachfront - Los Monteros: Elegant apartment with sea views in Palm Beach. 2 beds, 3 baths. Living area 140 m², terrace 40 m².

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@essentialeditor

18/12/2019 13:47

Internationally recognised, award-winning publication

@essentialmarbellamagazine

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

essentialÂŽ marbella magazine

published editions [245] published pages [over 50k] published copies [over 5 million] monthly readership [over 50k] issuu impressions [over 9 million] instagram followers [over 12k] facebook followers [over 20k]

We are proud to have you included!

Here’s to an even more successful 2020!

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social media updated daily with awesome content that will make you happy! :)

so far...

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Built 418 m2 Plot 1.229 m2

Price: 2.150.000 € Ref: DM4525

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Situated in a quiet and discreet residential area next to the ‘copper tower’ in Marbella town, this family villa offers quality of life with every service and amenity, several schools, shopping centres, restaurants and beaches within a couple of minutes’ walk from its doorstep.

Distributed over two floors, basement and rooftop solarium with sea views. Bedrooms in all three levels with master suite on top floor, spacious lounge, dining room, fully fitted modern kitchen with breakfast corner, games and cinema room as well as guest quarters.

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A superb combination of elegant interiors and exquisite exterior spaces, this pristine south-facing home is well located within metres from the 5* Westin La Quinta Golf Resort & Spa with all its facilities and quick, easy access to Puerto Banús and Nueva Andalucía with its many golf courses.

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Antima is a family-run company developing exclusive, furnished properties. By pursuing excellence and quality in every project, Antima has established some of the most prestigious homes around the world.

We have a handful of beautiful estates for sale at the moment. For more information please contact us:

+47 900 99 665

–

john@antima.no

NOW YOU CAN READ OUR STORIES AND WATCH VIDEOS ON-LINE! e

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D

contents the spotlight

The Roaring 20s 34

Parma 40

Travel News 48

El Lodge Hotel in Sierra Nevada 50

Healthouse Las Dunas 52

The Rolls-Royce Wraith 2020 54

Antonio Banderas 56

The Rise of Populism 58

the trend What’s On at the Cinema 62 Fantasy Island The Movie 64 Music News 66 Top Reads for the Month 68 Top Bluetooth Speakers 70 What’s Cool 72

the style Kitchen Appliance Design 78 Pink Home Décor 82 Marc Jacobs Fashion 84 Kaviar Gauche Fashion 90

the spa 94 Anastasia Beverly Hills 96 Top Luxury Palettes 100 The Raw Food Craze 102 Non-Surgical Options at Ocean Clinic

the social 104 The Vibe 112 Jeffree Star and MMMMitchell in London 113 Animal Love

the pro 114 Property: Ikkil Bay 116 Enterprise 120 The World’s Smallest E-Bike Kit

the gourmet 125 Asador Origen 126 Gourmet Bytes 128 Dabiz Muñoz of DiverXO and StreetXO 130 Wine: Quinta Sardonia 132 The Golden Triangle of Sherry

the guide 136 Listings 142 Stars for 2020

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D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

I

trust this issue finds you in fine fettle as another new year gets underway.

Let’s hope that 2020 ushers in the start of the Caring 20s, as both humanity and the planet sorely crave more love and compassion.

In this month’s you can learn why it could be a momentous year for local hero, Antonio Banderas. You can also relive the hedonistic years of the Roaring 20s, typified by flappers and the Charleston.

For some decadent modern indulgence, test drive the resplendent RollsRoyce Wraith Black Badge, come with us on a visit to Parma, check into Sierra Nevada’s finest, El Lodge, and check out stunning haute couture from Marc Jacobs.

In the kitchen, we profile 3 Michelin-Star chef, Dabiz Muñoz and review the design science of the kitchen appliance. Elsewhere, you can discover Ikkil Bay, the epitome of luxury in Estepona; Quinta Sardonia, one of the most venerated biodynamic wines in Spain; and the highly reputed Origen Asador in Marbella.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

“CHEERS TO A NEW YEAR AND ANOTHER CHANCE FOR US TO GET IT RIGHT” OPRAH WINFREY

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e the spotlight CULTURE HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING TECHNOLOGY ENTERTAINMENT

34 The Roaring 20s 40 Parma 48 Travel News 50 El Lodge Hotel in Sierra Nevada 52 Healthouse Las Dunas 54 The Rolls-Royce Wraith 2020 56 Antonio Banderas 58 The Rise of Populism

WE BRING YOU A VARIED RANGE OF FEATURES, INCLUDING OUR REPORT ON THE HEDONISTIC DECADE THAT WAS THE 1920s. JOIN US ON A TOUR THROUGH PARMA AND GET YOUR HEART RACING WITH A RIDE IN THE BRAND NEW ROLLS-ROYCE WRAITH – A CAR WHOSE VERY NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH LUXURY AND RELIABILITY.

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D THE SPOTLIGHT 1920s

THE ROARING

20s REVISITED

AS WE ROAR INTO THE 2020S, BELINDA BECKETT REVERSES THE BUGATTI DOWN MEMORY LANE TO THE CRAZIEST, MOST GAME-CHANGING DECADE IN THE HISTORY OF THE WESTERN WORLD.

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RADIO DAYS

Radio broadcasting sputtered into life in 1920 and the BBC became the world’s first national broadcaster six years later, promising ‘All that is best in every department of human knowledge, endeavour and achievement’. Early programmes were a long way from exciting (The Archers didn’t arrive until 1951).

Commercial radio in America, funded by big bucks from advertising, was far less restrained.

Early wireless sets cost an arm and a leg (around £1,000 in today’s money) not including the speakers, battery charger, a kit to make the antenna and the 10 shilling licence fee.

Even so, radios had pride of place in most front parlours where the whole family would gather round it on chairs to listen to talks, plays, the news (read in posh BBC English) and the latest new-fangled gramophone recordings.

THE DECADE THAT ROARED It began with a post-war boom and ended with the 1929 Wall Street Crash.

The 1920s was a fleeting, May Fly decade of high spirited hedonism, artistic genius and mindblowing invention that gave us penicillin, radio, talking pictures, gramophone records, cheap cars and the consumer society.

Western life expectancy hovered around 54 and after one of the deadliest conflicts in history, and the Spanish Flu pandemic which infected an estimated 500 million people worldwide, everyone was in the mood to let rip.

A Time magazine issue for 1929 with Prohibition mobster Al Capone on the cover gives a glimpse into the big stories of the decade. Headlines included ‘Music and movies are the new big thing’ and ‘Sports stars are becoming household Celebrities’, highlighting baseball ace Babe Ruth.

With half the world in hock to the Yanks for wartime debt, money was flush across The Pond and America set the pace, criss-crossing the country with freeways, railroads, electricity

pylons and telephone cables, developing petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, plastics and leading the world in everything from science and technology to subatomic physics and bioengineering.

Wartime munitions factories were repurposed for peacetime using assembly line techniques to mass produce cars and electrical goods at prices the man in the street could afford. Offices were built in cities and homes in the suburbs and the 1% of households with electricity and indoor plumbing in 1920 rose to 70% by the end of the decade. Women could vote and, having been the backbone of the wartime workforce, liked the new independence it gave them. By 1930 nearly half America’s single females had a job.

Although Europe had it tougher initially, opportunity filtered across the Atlantic in what was dubbed ‘the Americanisation of Europe’ and in capital cities across the continent, jazz blossomed, art flourished and Art Deco peaked.

ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM JANUARY 2020 / 35

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THRILLS OF THE OPEN ROAD Before the war, cars were toys for the super-rich but mass production turned 60% of Americans into motorists by the end of the decade.

The Ford Model T, racing off production lines at the rate of one every 93 minutes, was the first affordable car. Retailing for $290 in 1925 (just over $4,000 today), even the new Co-Ed College kids could afford a ‘bedroom on wheels’ to coin their common usage. In Britain, the average family might aspire to a Morris but Bentleys and Bugattis remained the preserve of Brideshead Revisited types.

Cars lead to motels, hotels, gas stations and Michelin Guides, opening up new horizons for travel. But while America had the cash to splurge on serviced interstate highways, British roads were woefully rural and petrol stations scarcer than electric car charging points today. On both sides of The

Pond, driving standards were scarily ad hoc until tests came into force in the mid-30s.

PROHIBITION AND THE JAZZ AGE

Old Fashioned glasses in the same clubs as the working class and black mingled with white, unprecedented in an age when segregation was the norm.

America’s nationwide ban on booze was in force from 1920 to 1933 but far from being dry, ‘The parties were bigger, the morals were looser and the liquor was cheaper’ (F. Scott Fitzgerald). Speakeasies selling bootleg liquor run by mobsters like Al Capone and Lucky Luciano, sprung up in the cities, vying for the best performers and launching the careers of jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Fats Waller.

In these ‘dens of iniquity’, cocktails were invented to disguise the taste of rough moonshine, toffs clinked

The Ford Model T was the first affordable car

FLAPPERS AND FEMINISTS While her pre-war predecessors chained themselves to railings to win votes for women in demure, Victorian attire, flappers challenged convention in a more visually shocking way. They, bobbed their hair, hitched up hemlines, wore cosmetics and bared rouged knees like prostitutes, smoked, drank, frequented jazz clubs, danced the Charleston and thoroughly romped through the Roaring Twenties enjoying the new freedoms of the times. Some even went out to work, shock

horror.

F. Scott Fitzgerald whose 1925 novel The Great Gatsby encapsulated the spirit of the age, called his author wife Zelda ‘the first American Flapper’.

Noted for her beauty, high spirits and drinking capacity, she was prone to jump in fountains fully clothed and went sea swimming in a fleshcoloured bathing suit designed to fuel rumours that she skinny-dipped.

Flappers rode bicycles, drove cars, shrugged

off chaperones, propositioned men and, with the opening of the first birth control clinics, transitioned from ‘petting parties’ to premarital sex. Life was ‘jazz’ (fun) and everything was ‘the cat’s pyjamas (wonderful). Older suffragettes viewed them as unworthy of the enfranchisement they had worked so hard to win – in fact, British women under 30 didn’t get the vote until 1928. But flappers were feminists nonetheless, challenging old stereotypes and literally wearing the trousers.

36 / JANUARY 2020 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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ELECTRIC HOUSEWIVES

Even flappers settled down eventually, got married and had 4.2 children but with all the new laboursaving electrical gadgets at her disposal these were exciting times for the ‘average ‘housewife’.

Newspapers abounded with advertisements of Stepford Wives types in frilly aprons extolling the latest washing machines, vacuum cleaners, blenders and popcorn makers. The first domestic fridges cost more than a car in 1920, but with the new hire purchase credit deals everyone could afford to splurge on the ‘never-never’. Downton Abbey types were more thrilled by the new department stores and fashion houses and left the purchase of domestic gadgetry to the live-in staff.

THE 1920S ALSO GAVE US…

AGAS, TRAFFIC LIGHTS, WATER SKIING, THE LIE DETECTOR, STICKING PLASTERS, POWER STEERING, BIRDS EYE FROZEN FOODS, SUNGLASSES, THE JUKEBOX, LONDON DOUBLE DECKER BUSES, BUBBLE GUM, TESCO

FASHIONS In 1923, Paris’s hot new couturier Coco Chanel introduced the ‘garçonne look’ and the female silhouette was never the same again. Victorian wasp waist corsets were cast off, chests flattened into submission

by Symington Side Lacer bras to suit the new boyish look and dresses were short and loose, better for Charleston dancing.

Ladies could now go sleeveless at night which meant (whisper it quietly) shaving their underarm hair; although not legs –

stockings rolled down below the knee were the in thing. And galoshes. These rubber overshoes for rainy days were now worn with everything, whatever the weather, unbuckled so that they ‘flapped’ about the ankles – a style that, some contest, gave flappers their name.

The closet door even opened a crack as gay found an outlet in the flamboyant new look. As the lyrics of a popular American song, from 1926 ran:

Masculine women, Feminine men/Which is the rooster, which is the hen?/Sister is busy learning to shave/Brother just loves his permanent wave…

Come the Hungry Thirties, ‘Make Do and Mend’ became the new byword and hemlines dropped back to a more respectable ankle level. Several American states passed laws enforcing skirt lengths and in some firms during the Thirties, a Twenties bob could get you the sack!

38 / JANUARY 2020 ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

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CINEMA AND THE CULT OF CELEBRITY A night at the movies was pure Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1920s when most cities had at least one chandelier-festooned picture palace. These lavish emporiums were built on the grand scale, emulating Roman temples and Egyptian pyramids (Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered in 1922). They employed large orchestras and immaculately uniformed ushers, some even offered air conditioning and baby crèches in the basement.

It was also the decade that kick-started talkies and the studio-manufactured star. ‘America’s sweetheart’ Mary Pickford, ‘It Girl’ Clara Bow and red hot Latin lover Rudolph Valentino were among the first to be given ‘off-screen personas’ in the ‘silent era’ and contracts that dictated how they dressed, who they dated and what they ate.

The arrival of ‘talkies’ with The Jazz Singer in 1927, starring a blacked-up Al Jolson, presented challenges to some silent stars like Charlie Chaplin and swashbuckler Douglas Fairbanks, opening the stage door to a new cast of celebrities: ‘blonde bombshell’ Jean Harlow, the sultry Dietrich, the sardonic Bette Davis, Clark Gable and Mickey Mouse were among the new pin-ups.

Bette Davis

MADE IN THE 1920S Z THE FLYING SQUAD The first officers in The Sweeney (Todd) as it was dubbed in Cockney rhyming slang – drove horse-drawn carriages with holes cut in the canvas for covert surveillance. Jack Regan would have been mortified!

Z TV Scottish engineer John Logie Baird demonstrated the first working set in 1926 but no one got to own one until after WW2.

Z THE WHITE COLLAR WORKER Named for their crisp white shirts, this new breed of salaried male executive proliferated to manage all the new industries, working from offices equipped with the latest tech – telephones and typewriters. According to 1920 IRS stats, their average income was a handsome $3,269.40 a year. Blue-collar (manual) workers, named for their denim shirts, were lucky to earn five pounds a week in Britain.

Z THE FEMALE SECRETARY also made her entrée into the new office typing pools. Until now the role had been traditionally filled by men. Seriously – the first Pitman shorthand and typing classes were strictly men-only.

Z THE 8-HOUR DAY The 60-hour work week was the pre-war norm, now it plummeted to 48 hours (including Saturdays).

Z TRANSATLANTIC FLIGHT In 1927 Charles Lindbergh flew nonstop from New York to Paris in 33.5 hours, bringing the promise of air travel to come. e

The Chrysler Building is the acme of Art Deco

A MODERN RENAISSANCE Picasso was painting in Paris, Magritte and Dali were championing the new surrealist movement, Hemingway published The Sun Also Rises based on his experiences in Spain but D. H. Lawrence’s Lady Chatterley’s Lover was banned for obscenity. And everyone was talking about Art Deco, the new artistic craze for edgy geometric shapes and bold colours that influenced everything from architecture and furniture to telephones and toasters. New York’s stunning Chrysler Building, at 318.9 metres, the world’s tallest before the Empire State Building in 1931, is an icon of the style.

In the same decade, A.A. Milne gave us Winnie the Pooh, Virginia Woolf published five seminal novels, Aldous Huxley, James Joyce, Sigmund Freud and T.S. Eliot also produced magnum opuses. And there was such an explosion of edgy art (Kandinsky, Klee, Miró, Munch) that in 1929 New York opened the Museum of Modern Art to house it all.

Micky Mouse was born in 1928

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D THE SPOTLIGHT travel

PARMA WORDS ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK AND EMMA BALL

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Immediately I could sense what was in store from my airplane window as I looked down on vast, well-tilled fields and long straight roads efficiently utilising their original Roman hectares. For below is called the ‘Food Valley’ a perfect cradle of nourishment extending between the Apennine mountains and Italy’s largest river, the Po.

A

t its heart is the city of Parma, afforded UNESCO status for her gastronomy (www.parmacityofgastronomy.it/ en/) and this year set to perform its role as Italy's Capital of Culture in which it will host a multitude of concerts and exhibitions from July to December.

Deriving from the Latin for ‘shield’, Parma has an old city centre that’s a rounded conglomeration of safe, silent, cobbled streets devoid of fuming cars with locals ambling or bicycling around at a gentle pace. Here I spotted students at one of the world’s oldest universities either intent with their heads down in books or on celebrating their graduations with garlands of laurels resting upon their heads.

One draw for this year doubtless will be the Palazzo della Pilotta, a complex that houses an art gallery of local artists (such as Correggio) beside Italian greats such as Leonardo da Vinci whose sublimely beautiful drawing, La Fortuna de la Scapiliata was for me the prize exhibit. Elsewhere, shelves of ancient tomes with marvellous dust protectors line the extended rooms that comprise the library. The gorgeous baroque Teatro Farnese is also a ‘must see’, a veritable prototype of the modern playhouse with lovely wooden seats beneath arched columns.

The ‘Food Valley’ has forty-five different types of produce from meats and cured meat products, cheeses, bread and pasta, vegetables, fruits and cereals, oil, wool, bees and honey, milk and eggs, wines, ciders and fish.

These elongated Roman roads are lined with golden yellow fields that are punctuated with circular hay bails and light green crops bursting with vitality and sunflowers with their tilting heads. All set among poplar and linden trees, old barns with terracotta tiles, village dwellings and churches with spiral campaniles typical of the region.

Old Farnese theatre built in 1618 in Palazzo della Pilotta in Parma

Piazza del Duomo with the Cathedral

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Interior of the Parma cathedral

Parma is only an hour from either Bologna or Milan airport and has enjoyed a 14 per cent increase in tourism in the last year, coming mainly from Switzerland and Germany. And it’s still a hidden joy for most Brits. Yes it gets very hot in August and very cool in January but the other ten months are divine and it’s never crowded so there are none of the queues you can encounter elsewhere in Italy and mercifully no sign of any selfie-sticks.

I sat in silence in the large open Piazza of the Romanesque Cathedral admiring the lack of tourists and the gentle pace of the locals cycling and ambling, before I entered this nave church with its apse and with its raised steps within, going high up to the altar beneath its frescoed vault and ceiling. All very uplifting for my spirit and my craning neck.

As for the Baptistery, begun in 1196, with its wondrous and impressive height, it has rectangular windows and is decked in pink Verona marble cladding and though octagonal on the outside it’s sixteen-sided within.

While in Parma I stayed at the Hotel Palazzo dalla Rosa Prati (www.palazzodallarosaprati.it).

I awoke to the sounds of church bells chiming and met Victor, the hotel owner, who led us along a shaded leafy courtyard with celadon shutters and down a private route before taking us upstairs to where his parents live and still uphold the traditions of their family heritage with rooms of a bygone era including the ‘sala grande’ ballroom.

I awoke early to catch the ‘Lowlander Tour,’ with Food Valley Travel (www.foodvalleytravel. com) and I got to see the whole food process

Hotel Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati © Emma Ball

from ‘farmyard to table’. After all, as a city dweller, it’s only too easy to forget the connection. And what care is given and attention paid. It’s a veritable labour of love handed down from family to family, from generation to generation.

What a luxury to experience the freshness of the homemade ice cream which they even like to treat to a dash of vintage balsamic vinegar.

Wonderful on the taste buds. Lovely mouthwatering explosive flavours.

I had come to see how they make Parmigiano Reggiano, the official name for the hard, granular cheese we call Parmesan and whose trademark can only be branded onto the cheese if it’s produced in the place of origin and accords to the strict rules that require precise production methods and the controlled feeding of the cows.

Beautiful dome of Parma

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Branding Parmigiano Reggiano

© Emma Ball

Making Cheese

It’s quite a story. The milk, taken twice a day, goes within two hours to the cheese house. Before I had arrived, the takings from the evening milking was poured into the holding basins where the separation of the curd from the whey was already underway. I then watched this partly skimmed milk being poured into copper cauldrons before the natural enzyme rennet was added and then salt was introduced to shrink the cheese and create its rind. Interestingly, it’s the only cheese that can be enjoyed by those who are lactose intolerant.

The other main pride and joy of the region is the salumi and, in particular, their Culatello di Zibello. Made from pigs’ buttocks, it’s only officially recognised as coming from the eight villages located in the lowlands of the Po Valley where the humidity and the fog rising from the river give it its unique taste of world renown.

I went several steps back in the process to a farm with roaming white pigs (from which the meat takes 1-3 years to mature) and black pigs (a minimum of 3 years). Skipping the grim abattoir, I learnt how a strict consortium assesses the ham’s quality and maturity by inspecting its shapes and smells. Many restaurants in the area have cellars with thousands of the ageing cured meat hanging down on hooks to mature.

I stayed next, at the Antica Corte Pallavicina (www. anticacortepallavicinarelais.it). The hotel is proud of her resident peacocks who are equally proud of their expansive flashing frames. It also plays home to the Museum of Culatello for the devotees, to a characterful chapel available for weddings, and to its Hosteria del Maiale, a shop of local produce doubling up as a breakfast spot with country-style gingham tablecloths.

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Fresh Rucola Pizza with Parma Ham

From here, rather than join a boat tour up the river, I walked along the wild tracks of splurging greenery beside the breadth of the river Po with the breeze giving respite to the intense sun as did the shaded poplar avenue with oleander shrubs. Crickets buzzed and thrummed everywhere and the meadows were abundant with wild flowers that I watched being lapped up by large, white, pristine, healthy cows.

I also borrowed one of the hotel’s Brooks bicycles to ride around the neighbouring village of Polesine Parmense. Some continental rustic traditions never seem to change with the older men's groups sitting in the square by the bar putting the world to rights while pairs of old ladies sat outside their houses doubtless catching up on more local matters. I was captivated by the countryside and my bike ride became a virtual marathon among the swaying trees and river reeds.

With a mere six bedrooms, the Antica Corte Pallavicina is the perfect romantic getaway or hideaway, to be more precise. It’s the ultimate boutique hotel with an authentic rustic style as I opened the blinds to an

orchestra at dawn consisting of crickets, cuckoos and peacocks.

On I went that morning to Colorno, to its Ducal Palace called the Reggia and up I climbed its ‘Staircase of Honour’ into the Duke’s Apartment. Here, offset from its spinal cord of a hundred yard corridor, are unfurnished but intimate rooms with marble fireplaces, tall double doors with engraved gilt bronze locks and floral rococo ceilings. My favourite rooms were the elegant décor of the Chinese boudoir and the splendidly grand ‘sala grande,’ the ‘great’ or ‘throne’ room.

In the Duchess’s rooms, the feminine whirls of the inlaid floors are echoed in the garden. As I opened the shutters it was easy to see why the Reggia is dubbed a ‘mini Versailles’. The formal garden, the parterre, is exquisite and, these days, is used regularly by locals and holds concerts using the palace as a backdrop. As I went outside to explore the gardens, I walked down a shady avenue of ash trees and alongside the only surviving tree, the zelkova carpinifolia, around which it takes six rugby players to link arms.

The Palace of Colorno

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Rocca Sanvitale in Sala Baganza, Parma Impressive view of Ducal garden's palace

Elsewhere in the palace, rooms are now given over to the ALMA school (www.alma. scuolacucina.it/en/), the most authoritative training centre of Italian Cuisine. Sadly it was shut but I would have loved to have had a peep to discover some of the secrets behind how the Italians make such delicious meals out of sometimes the most basic ingredients.

From north of Parma to south of Parma and on to The Rocca at Sala Baganza I went. It’s a fortress that lords itself impressively over the town. Inside there’s a magnificent pictorial cycle of frescoes and on its exterior walls cascading vines flow like waves down upon the gardens below.

Within the Rocca’s keep is where I was last to stay at the Cortaccia San Vitale Hotel (www. cortacciasanvitale.it). It’s a fresh and well-kept hotel and ideal for young families. It has the entrance to the Rocca yards away one way and a Wine Museum and a handy delicatessen-cumcafé the other while the peaceful village of Sala Baganza is still in walking distance.

For my final day, although I’m not a golfer it made no difference to my enjoyment at the Parma Golf Experience (www.parmagolf.it) that comprises three golf courses in the area.

I visited the one in Vigatto only fifteen minutes drive from Parma where you can pay for a day’s

golf or simply swim in the super-sized pool (remember to bring your own towels). Here was my chance to sunbathe on glamorous furnishings in luxurious surroundings before enjoying a fabulous lunch at their ‘Green – Food and Friends Restaurant’ where I scrutinised the menu with my now practised eye to order an excellent spaghetti al pomodoro e basilico.

I was both heartened and touched by the very attentive and hospitable vice president and staff with whom I met up. My wonderful host told me all the local gossip. “Parma,” he explained, “is a small city where everybody knows each other. It’s like a big family without the problems a family can bring.” His generosity and warmth across our lunch table conjured up for me visions of the long family tables of food planned for the streets of Parma for the 2020 celebrations. g Adam had support from the Parma Tourist Board www.turismo.comune.parma.it Adam had further support from www.heathrowexpress.com and www.holidayextras.co.uk (who offer airport lounges at all major UK airports and many international destinations).

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D THE SPOTLIGHT travel news

TRAVEL NEWS WORDS DAVID WISHART

Z Hats off to Qantas for flying non-stop from London to Sydney in 19 hours and 19 minutes, a far cry from the days of sail when the fastest ship from Wapping to the Rocks took 99 days. Still too much air time for me though. I prefer landing at Singapore or Bangkok and then taking a cruise ship to Sydney, one reason being the experience of sailing between the Sydney heads, always thinking what it must have been like for the souls on the First Fleet as they arrived here in 1788.

Z Sailing ships are still around of course, but not serving tots of rum to the crew and without the lash, as far as I know.

In fact the handful of companies offering sailing experiences are among the top cruise operators afloat, and the best is undoubtedly Sea Cloud Cruises. Its flagship is Sea Cloud, built in 1931, which provides the thrilling experience of sailors in the rigging powering a sleek, elegant vessel, run like a country house hotel. I’ll never forget leaving a rowdy dock in South America and minutes later having lunch in a gilded salon as the pianist played soothing Grieg. A replica, Sea Cloud 11, followed, and a new vessel, the Sea Cloud Spirit, joins the fleet in August this year. Spirit will have twice as many passengers but still just 136, about the capacity of a tender on a standard vessel. There will be 25 cabins with balconies, and for the first time ever on a sailing ship, an elevator.

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Z Meanwhile SeaDream Yacht Club, whose two little ships are a class act, is introducing a newbuild, the Innovation, next year. It will carry 220 passengers to all seven continents in its first 12 months, including polar regions. Wow. Z For those with less travel time in mind, I can recommend Nova Scotia, on Canada’s east coast. I flew the Canadian airline WestJet from Glasgow to Halifax in just six hours, coming back in five, surely a remarkable crossing of the Atlantic, and in a Boeing 737. There’s lots to see and do in Halifax starting with a splendid citadel dating from 1749. Bring the kids and have them dress up in period red jackets. Better still, take them to the waterfront, more interesting than San Francisco’s, for ships, shows, restaurants, amphibious boats, even a super hotel, the Marriott Waterfront Hotel, where the kilted doormen greet you with a smile. I also rented

a car and had a wonderfully scenic drive along the south coast to Peggy’s Cove, famous for its lobsters and lighthouse, explored Lunenburg of schooner fame, and crossed over to historic Annapolis Royal, founded by the French as Port Royal in 1605. All that and seafood galore!

Z Renfe’s Ave train from Málaga is a good ride to Madrid, particularly in the Preferente class, where a hot lunch is served compared to cold meals on French trains. Nor are they stingy with their Ribera del Duero wines, and come around again with brandy and whisky – Dewar’s 12-year-old. Dinner at Tatel in Madrid was not too shabby either. Located in the Salamanca barrio, Tatel’s owners include Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafa Nadal and Enrique Iglesias, who have other restaurants in London, Miami and Ibiza. I liked it, and the chanteuse too.

Z Every time I visit Paris, which is as often

as possible, I go to the Ritz Hotel and its Hemingway bar, famously liberated from the Nazis by the author in 1944 (the Luftwaffe HQ was on the other side of Place Vendôme). It is a cozy oasis of charm, where even Americans keep their voices down. Hemingway first went to Paris in 1921, living in a small flat with very basic facilities, but he did say, “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”

Z Finally, get ready for Carnival’s latest ship, the Mardi Gras, which arrives in the Med on August 31 sporting a massive two-deck water park including the world’s first rollercoaster at sea, serenely called BOLT and featuring top deck turns and splash zones named Blue Lightning, Orange Thunder and Twister. Think I’ll just lash myself to the bar. e

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D THE SPOTLIGHThotel

Andalusia’s best-kept secret, El Lodge Ski & Spa, reopened its doors recently with two sets of experiences that will make you fall in love with Granada’s rich cultural heritage and the many ways in which to unplug from the winter routine. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EL LODGE

P

erched at more than 2,000 metres above sea level in the Sierra Nevada National Park, El Lodge has quickly turned into a sumptuous, cosy staple for both seasoned ski-goers and those looking to cuddle up fireside with the perfect après-ski scene. Its playful décor, ski-in/out deck and outdoor open-air heated pool make it the go-to refuge at just 45 minutes from Granada, a two-hour picturesque drive from the beaches of Marbella or three hours from Madrid by

high-speed train.

Serving as the perfect hub for nonskiers or families with children not yet of skiing age, El Lodge offers a set of experiences that can be booked individually or as a package for individuals, couples or groups:

CULTURAL SAFARI Mix ski and culture: Knead away next to famed baker Margarita Nuñez in her workshop, ‘La Flor de Vainilla’ and learn

her ‘repostectura’ techinique first-hand, reproducing architectural elements from the Alhambra or Sierra Nevada’s peaks from organic products. Jump aboard a hot air balloon for an unforgettable, private ride above the city of Granada; try the organically certified Ríofrío Caviar in the Huerto de Juan Ranas restaurant and end the day with a romantic, night visit to the Alhambra and the Nazarí Palaces with a local guide to show you the uncharted routes.

EL LODGE SKI & SPA

ENTICES SKI ENTHUSIASTS WITH A RANGE OF CULTURAL AND FEEL-GOOD ADVENTURES

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AL-ANDALUS R&R If nothing ignites your passion like a day at the spa or you simply wish to relax your muscles after a day on the powdery slopes, El Lodge’s Intensive Sports Massage will help release tension with energising stretches and movements, focusing on deep pressure points. Next, a long session in the spa pool will help you disconnect. Later, head to Granada’s Albaicín neighbourhood and learn more about the city’s inherited Hammam culture with a private tour of Baños de Elvira. And if you want to find out why honey-

making is such an art in Granada, tag along with an expert beekeeper for an afternoon.

BACK AT EL LODGE Rooms and décor: The interiors have been thoughtfully designed

by Martin Waller, founder of revered London-based design house, Andrew Martin, and bring an elegantly informal approach to traditional alpine style with cowhide rugs, bright Moroccan and Aztec textiles and bespoke Chesterfield armchairs adding colour and texture to the Finnish timber-clad bedrooms, while playful touches such as vintage posters and ‘antler’ chandeliers adorn the walls. Each

of the hotel’s nine rooms and 12 suites boast private terraces and sweeping picture windows that frame exquisite views of the snowcapped mountains beyond, and let in the ever-changing sunlight that is so prominent in Europe’s most southerly ski resort.

Leisure and dining: Guests at El Lodge can indulge in three dining options. The Sun Deck – the only ski-in/ski-out restaurant in the Sierra Nevada – offers traditional tapas, light lunches, warming hot chocolate and panoramic views on an outdoor terrace. The Grill serves up hearty fondue, raclette, grilled meats, fresh fish and locally sourced Riofrio Caviar – the first organically certified caviar in the

world. The Lounge is the spot for bar snacks and a hot Glühwein by the fire while enjoying a game of pool, backgammon or vintage arcade machines. The Bar, with its eclectic style and whimsical vintage ski décor, offers a snug refuge to hole up in for cocktails on cold, snowy evenings.

El Lodge also offers its guests an extensive spa featuring indoor and outdoor pools, sauna, two treatment rooms, a gym, Turkish bath and Jacuzzi, while younger visitors aged zero-to-14 years can keep themselves busy in a dedicated playroom brimming with toys, games and films. g Rates start from €380 euros per night. www.ellodge.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHThotel

DISCOVER NEW SENSATIONS AT

HEALTHOUSE LAS DUNAS HEALTH & BEACH SPA

Many luxurious hotels have a fine spa, but at the Healthouse Las Dunas the two flow into one to create a unique place where pampering service, hotel comforts and wellbeing become one and the same thing. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HEALTHOUSE LAS DUNAS

L

as Dunas Hotel is well-known in the Marbella area as one of its finest resorts thanks in part to a privileged and secluded beachfront location on the New Golden Mile, and to the sense of elegant refinement it exudes. However, as the Healthouse Las Dunas Health & Beach Spa resort, it has another rather unique feature – that of an oasis of luxury pampering and wellbeing.

You see, people come to this five-star deluxe hotel to relax, enjoy superlative comfort and service by the sea, soak up the Marbella weather, lifestyle and amenities, and savour the exquisite delicacies served at Las Dunas Restaurant, but many also book the hotel specifically to make use of its specialist health and wellbeing programmes.

These include Relax & Wellness, which focuses

on a detailed anti-stress treatment that sees people return home completely revitalised and fresh; Cleanse & Detox, a treatment designed to clear impurities and toxins from the body to restore a healthy physical balance; and Healthy Weight, making use of the Naturhouse method of reducing weight following a healthy programme that produces long-term results.

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FINE DINING AND SPA Las Dunas Restaurant and the superlative Spa form the core of this offering, along with a superb team of professionals each specialised in their respective fields. These include medical practitioners and health therapists, nutrition experts, personal gym, Pilates, Aquagym, Nordic Walking and yoga instructors, massage therapists, physiotherapists, as well as beauticians.

They have access to unrivalled facilities to provide a level of specialist treatment that is unique in this region, and as a result Healthouse Las Dunas is recognised as one of the best resorts of its kind in Spain and draws visitors from across the country and indeed Europe and the Middle East. It therefore redefines the concept of a hotel spa to include real, tangible health benefits.

Since nutrition is an integral part of health and wellbeing, Las Dunas Restaurant plays its part in providing a five-star deluxe holiday experience that will see you return home healthier and revitalised

by offering a unique concept of healthy haute cuisine.

Its challenge, to offer superlative cuisine that minimises the use of sugar, salt, gluten, lactose and a whole range of other toxins, has led to the creation of a special offering built upon natural, organic, fresh produce sourced locally, ingredients that restore rather than reduce the body’s vitality, and cooking techniques that make use of delicious alternatives to conventional seasoning.

HEALTH-BASED PROGRAMMES Fine dining, relaxing by the sea and spa therefore take on another meaning, as the entire experience can also be used to return home from your vacation feeling totally regenerated physically and emotionally, so while guests are entirely welcome to simply stay at the hotel and the Spa and Las Dunas Restaurant are also open to outside clients, Healthouse Las Dunas is different in that it takes the vacation experience in a new, more health-conscious direction.

“So many people in highly pressured positions more than

ever need the time to invest in themselves, their health and energy levels, and re-emerge with renewed levels of enthusiasm, creativity and wellbeing,” says Auxi Velázquez, Spa Manager at the Healthouse Las Dunas. She and her team at the Spa, in tandem with the Las Dunas Restaurant and the hotel staff, ensure that a whole range of madeto-measure programmes can be integrated into your stay.

“Apart from there being a broad selection of different regimes, they can be as intense or easy-going as you wish, depending on your needs and preferences,” says Auxi. These can focus on physical and mental rejuvenation, detoxing, weight loss and also beauty and ageing treatments in Better Ageing. “Each involves a detailed yet flexible range of personalised treatments with proven results that have people coming back to maintain and build upon their achievements.”

SIGNATURE SPA JOURNEYS Popular also are the half-day spa experiences, such as the Essence of Balance, which includes a full spa circuit, stress relieving

face and scalp massage and foot reflexology, and a Flotarium session designed to experience weightlessness and reach deep levels of relaxation. Pure Bliss is a half-day spa journey that sees several hours of total relaxation and pampering, including an aromatic oil massage and culminating with a gorgeous yet healthy four-course gourmet meal.

The latter are mostly aimed at local residents who wish to make use of the fact that our region is home to one of the finest healthbased resort hotels in Europe, and those in the know join regular guests in booking one of the beautifully appointed rooms or suites and spending a delightful five-star weekend in an oasis of peace and beauty by the sea.

g HEALTHOUSE LAS DUNAS HEALTH & BEACH SPA Urbanización Boladilla Baja, Crta. Marbella-Estepona, Km 163.5, Estepona. Tel: 951 082 090. info@healthouse-naturhouse.com www.healthouse-naturhouse.com

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D THE SPOTLIGHTmotoring

2020

ROLLS-ROYCE

WRAITH e g d a B Black Large numbers of buyers opting for the big four-door Rolls-Royce models enjoy them in chauffer-driven splendour, but the Wraith two-door that’s dubbed ‘a gentleman’s GT’ by Rolls is very much a drivers’ car.

It’s certainly the sportiest Rolls-Royce right now and in fact, it’s the most powerful car ever built by the storied UK megalux carmaker.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE

T

he ‘Wraith’ name has been attached to many models from RollsRoyce over the years, but none of them ever approached the sporty appeal of the current one. Although Rolls enthusiasts will argue until the end of time which was the most beautiful model in the company’s history, many will agree that the current Wraith is right up there with the very best of them. With its dramatic fastback coupé styling, elegantly finished off with a trademark Rolls-Royce radiator topped with the famed Spirit of Ecstasy, it’s a delight for the eyes by any measure. Not everyone will warm to the ‘coach’ doors that hinge at the rear but it can’t be denied that they are very individualistic and a fascinating piece of eccentricity.

Wraith power is supplied by a whopping 6.6-litre, 624-horsepower,

turbocharged V-12 and if you order a Black Badge upgrade, torque and transmission are tweaked to create an even sportier motoring experience. This mighty power unit is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Wraith is by no means a small car, but you’ll top 100 km/h in a scant 4.6-seconds with no fuss at all.

It’s widely known that Rolls-Royce has been owned by BMW for some years and that’s where the V-12 engine originates. It’s hard to imagine that Rolls, with its deeply embedded traditions, could have made it into the modern era without a merger with a mass-market premium carmaker like BMW. The V-12 engines used by Rolls-Royce are silky smooth and refined and according to recent comments from management, they’ll be around for many years yet.

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One of the reasons people buy RollsRoyce cars is for their remarkable interior ambiance, which is quite unlike anything else in the entire realm of personal transportation.

The cabin of a Rolls is an experience that’s unequalled and occupants enjoy a wonderful feeling of being totally insulated from the noisy world outside. This regal atmosphere is created by some of the finest leathers and woods available, matched by cashmere headlining and the plushest of carpeting with real lambswool mats. Many buyers will pass on the optional starry headliner that uses over 1,300 fibre optic ‘stars’ to create a dramatic effect. We’ve found it a little distracting when driving at night but it can be switched off. Buyers looking for the hot rod experience that often goes with megahorsepower engines like the Wraith’s are going to be disappointed because this car is seriously quiet even at high speeds.

It also handles surprisingly well for a sizeable car and clearly, the suspension has been fettled to the tastes of enthusiastic drivers who like a brisk drive along winding roads.

The Rolls-Royce Wraith is a very special car indeed and those lucky enough to own one will enjoy more than mere luxury transportation. It’s an unmatched lifestyle experience created to make every journey a unique occasion. e

Z ENGINE: Turbocharged 6.6-litre V-12.

Z TRANSMISSION: Eight-speed automatic.

Z ACCELERATION: Zero to 100 km/h in 4.4-seconds.

Z TOP SPEED: Governed at 250 km/h.

Z I LIKED: Unsurpassed levels of luxury, albeit it at a substantial price. Very impressive performance with surprisingly brisk response and a suspension to match. Superlative interior materials and workmanship. Although there are many fine products at the pinnacle of the market, Rolls-Royce is still the prestige standout.

Z I DIDN’T LIKE: Rear-hinged doors are a ‘love or hate’ feature and take time to get used to.

Z MARKET ALTERNATIVES: Rolls-Royce says there are none, but the Bentley Continental GT has to be a rival.

Z WHO DRIVES ONE? Buyers who’ve stayed away from Rolls-Royce because the models weren’t sporty enough. Long-time Rolls enthusiasts who’d like a sports car to compliment their Phantom or Cullinan.

Z PRICE AND AVAILABILITY: Available now at prices from around €300.000.

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D THE SPOTLIGHT people

THE REBIRTH OF

In November last year, Antonio Banderas took home Spain’s top film honour – the Goya for Best Actor – for his marvellous portrayal of a sensitive film director in Almodóvar’s semi-autobiographical gem, Dolor y Gloria.

Banderas also triumphed in Cannes, winning the Best Actor award and garnering great praise from critics for stepping outside his comfort zone to portray a director who struggles against neurosis and various physical and psychological challenges.

The Cannes award was his first major international accolade, though he has been nominated for various prestigious prizes throughout his long and lustrous career – including a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical (for Nine).

Recently, he was nominated for a Golden Globe Award in the Best Actor category.

ANTONIO BANDERAS

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

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Pedro Almodóvar, Penélope Cruz and Antonio Banderas attend the photocall for Pain and Glory (Dolor y Gloria) during the 72nd Cannes Film Festival © Shutterstock

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he list of Oscar nominees will be announced on January 7; as we go to print, the answer to Almodóvar’s plea for a nomination for his favourite actor is as yet unknown. The visionary director said that, “Antonio was recognised in Cannes because his performance was no less than extraordinary… different to anything he has done before with me or with any other director. When I spoke with him prior to filming, he instantly realised that we would be veering away from the tone we had used in previous films. This film spoke of a person in another age group; one that was facing a very different situation to that of previous characters. The Cannes award was fair but it goes beyond that. To me, this film represents the rebirth of Antonio Banderas.” team was privileged to The have recently attended a press conference with Antonio Banderas. It was in November 2019, when the actor met with the media to present A Chorus Line – the classic Broadway musical that was, in many ways, the first-ever ‘reality show’ on Broadway – since the actors played themselves in what is essentially the story of one long, emotion-packed audition. During the press conference, he made patent that he was very much focused on bringing the bright lights of the theatre to Málaga; of turning his birthplace into a cultural hub. Despite his forays into business and direction, he continues to be an actor from head to toe. In fact, in A Chorus Line (still on this month but sold-out now for a couple of months), he plays the lead – Zach, the dance company director whose decisions make or break the future of the talented dancers whose only wish is ‘to get that job’ so they can keep making a living from dancing.

A Chorus Line did more than bring an

A Chorus Line © The Soho Theatre

award-winning musical to our shores; it also served to launch Antonio Banderas’ new Soho Theatre, where he plans on directing and acting in many performances. “The Soho Theatre is my baby and that is why I am performing in A Chorus Line,” he told the media. Opening such a theatre – with the support of CaixaBank – could be seen by many as a major risk, but it has certainly paid off. Not only did the show sell out, but it also attracted the biggest names in Spanish entertainment to its official premiere – including Pedro Almodóvar himself, and his acting ‘troupe’ – Loles León, Rossy de Palma, etc. Additionally attending were Banderas’ girlfriend Nicole Kimpel and her sister Barbara, as well as influencer Paula Echevarría and footballer Miguel Torres.

At the press conference, Banderas told us he “hadn’t slept in three months,” the fruit of his frequent travels to and from the U.S. and other countries. One very much has the feeling that the U.S. symbolises work – and Málaga freedom – for this jack of all trades. To achieve all this, he has to be disciplined and organised and indeed, an anecdote by co-director of A Chorus Line, Baayork Lee, shows exactly how the man gets the job done. “We put on A Chorus Line in New York for a fundraising show, and the show was great, with many cast members plucked directly from Broadway. Antonio was in the audience and after the show he asked to meet me regarding the possibility of putting A Chorus Line on in Málaga. The next day, at 10am, I was sitting with him and his team and it was decided that we would do the show.”

Theatre is long, hard work. The casting process took weeks, but so did the workshops. A Chorus Line is a particularly challenging show that requires its performers to sing, dance, and act

to a ‘10’ level, and achieving this took months – since, as you might expect, performers tend to be stronger at one talent than others.

Between his acting performances in A Chorus Line, Banderas continues to fly to and from the U.S. In early November, he accepted the Hollywood Film Awards’ Best Actor Award, handed to him by none other than Dakota Johnson – his former stepdaughter, who referred to him as ‘Papi’ as he walked up to the stage. “She still calls me Papi, and I love that. You have no idea,” he told the Daily Mail, adding, “We had 20 years of family life that was beautiful, but the best is still to come.”

Banderas attended the event with his daughter, Stella del Carmen – whose mom is, of course, iconic Hollywood beauty, Melanie Griffith.

Antonio Banderas has many plans for the future, starting with the national tour of A Chorus Line (Madrid, Bilbao, and Barcelona have been confirmed thus far). At the press conference we attended, he mentioned the possibility of taking the show to the U.S. It makes sense, considering his is the Spanish version of the cult show – which would appeal to Latino viewers in particular. He also has a string of films to be released in 2020 – including The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle, Lamborghini: The Legend, and The Devil May Care. In the latter, he plays God! – which somehow seems fitting, at least from a Malagueño’s point of view. Given his natural talent and drive, it is hard to imagine that Banderas was reared up to be a pro footballer instead of an actor. A broken foot in his early teen years would put an end to those dreams but it must have been destiny – for we cannot imagine the world of film without Spain’s brightest star! e

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D THE SPOTLIGHT populism

THE RISE OF

POPULISM

The past few years have seen the rise of a new phenomenon on the political scene – that of populist leaders, who have come to challenge the established order. Are they a menacing threat, as some claim, or pioneers willing to shake up the political system and make the will of the people be heard? WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK

The fears and worries of the economically vulnerable propelled Donald Trump to unexpected victory

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o make any sensible comment about the rise of populism in large parts of the world there is no alternative but to look back and survey the path that has led to where we are today. For most of the postwar period, the political scene in the Western World was dominated by moderate centreleft and centre-right parties. The virtual hegemony they enjoyed was made possible by a number of factors, including the pacifist spirit that followed after the horrors of two world wars, a period of prosperity and relative stability, as well as the binding force of a Cold War bi-polar world.

The latter bound the Western constitutional democracies together and reduced the threat of extremism, for which there was in any case little appetite. It was an era of moderation and humanist ideals, in which the West decolonised, underwent a social and sexual revolution, and modernised its economy along the way. With the conclusion of the Cold War at the turn of the 1990s, the doctrine of free enterprise, moderate democracy and liberalism seemed to have won the day, and a new dawn of modernity, reason, progress and prosperity appeared to be on the horizon.

WHERE IT STARTED TO GO WRONG With the exception of the USA, the period between the 1960s and 1980s had seen a balance maintained between an economic system of free enterprise and moderate capitalism on the one hand, and an element of social-democratic redistribution on the other. On the positive side it modified wealth imbalances and kept society cohesive, but on the negative side it imposed a heavy tax burden on the working population and was increasingly open to abuse.

Under American influence, the 1980s saw a gradual shift away from this system towards a more openly capitalist one, yet what has remained is an unsatisfactory legacy in which governments have continued to impose heavy taxes and the welfare state continues to be a drain on the economy while at the same time no longer being able to reduce the now growing disparity between rich and poor. Indeed, poverty, which had virtually been eradicated in many advanced countries during the 1960s and 70s, is once again among us.

The cost of an ageing population pyramid inverted since the baby boom of the 1960s – and partly a product thereof – the rising cost of labour, the growing might of the multinationals and the rise of the global economy all came to challenge the social-democratic system that had maintained the social and political balance of power so well. As whole industries closed down and millions of workers became permanently unemployed, so a newly nonworking class developed that viewed the changing world with anger and confusion, and was seen as a burden on society.

NEW REALITIES The above conditions have led to an everdiminished yet still somehow incredibly burdensome welfare state that has been cutting back since the late 1970s but continues to press heavily on professionals and the owners of small to medium sized businesses. In those countries with a more socialist bent, this along with job protection has stifled the economy, all but killed innovation, caused a brain drain and led to militant protectionism on the part of trade unions and interest groups.

Though little of this was immediately evident after the fall of the Berlin Wall and the Iron Curtain, the conditions for future disgruntlement were already well established. The immediate post-Cold War period produced a honeymoon of sorts, in which the USA spoke of a New World Order that sounded hopeful, but in the end found its ultimate expression in forcing through the doctrines of Free Trade and regime change. At a time when the Chinese giant hadn’t quite awoken yet, the USA now found itself unopposed in its quest to open up entire continents and their markets, assets and resources to its corporate giants.

The mergers and acquisitions that had been happening for several decades now accelerated rapidly, with US corporations and funds stepping into new parts of the world and absorbing their capacities. It sped up the process that was already underway in many other parts of the world, where inefficient industries or those unable to compete with cheap labour competitors were either bought and restructured (downscaled) or done away with altogether. This fate befell Eastern Europe with particular intensity, and though the culling of old industries was generally necessary, there has been little in the way of replacement.

For those whose parents once worked in national industries, mass unemployment or at best a job in one of the foreign hyper stores or distribution centres await. Many such countries have now effectively become client or ‘sleeper’ states that produce nothing but exist for the purpose of adding to the client base of the same global corporations that have asset-stripped their economies and resources.

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THE CHANGING WEST In such an uncertain economic environment political changes would almost certainly follow, and after two decades of New World Order in which American-style capitalism and commercialism were spread ever more effectively through the doctrine of Free Trade, the world certainly does look different to the one we lived in some 25 years ago.

Where the politics of economics has shifted quite strongly to the right, and people now seem remarkably accepting of hard-core capitalism and the apparently inherent right of large corporations to act only in their own interests and be above the law, the social political agenda has shifted quite radically to the left in a process that began with the hippie and sexual revolution movements of the 1960s, and has been moving

the goal posts ever since.

The onslaught of demands by feminists, LGBT organisations and minority interest groups has been growing steadily over the past half century to the point where it is now reaching a crescendo of madness. In an age where most reasonable people have accepted equality on the basis of gender, race and sexual orientation, and this is also encoded in law, the battle rages on with ever more abstract and ridiculous ‘burning platforms’ that are wasteful, entirely self-indulgent and indeed self-serving.

While it is important to protect the interests of specific groups of society, the bigger picture should always involve maintaining a balance in the interests of all, and of society in general. Yet instead of imposing a culture of mutual respect

and acceptance, even if we are different and have opposing ideas, certain groups have been allowed to become the untouchable accuser, and others the intrinsic evil that needs to be eradicated.

Instead of talking about the true issues of the day that affect us all – such as the environment, the role of big business and big capital in society, the associated impact of Artificial Intelligence on employment, over-consumption, social problems of exclusion, over-population and the associated mass immigration from one part of the world to the other, not to mention government corruption and continued lack of peace and stability – we are now engaged in vitriolic debates about whether to call a boy a girl or a girl a boy – an exercise in futility if ever there was one.

Santiago Abascal is riding a wave of discontent towards mainstream political parties

Those who wish to stop mass immigration into France turn to Marine Le Pen

Decades of corruption by mainstream and left-wing populist leaders produced a ‘Brazilian Donald Trump’ in Jair Bolsonaro

SOME FEMINIST ACTIVISTS ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY MILITANT

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GROWING DISGRUNTLEMENT AND DECAYING BELIEF IN THE POLITICAL SYSTEM ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN DECADES TO OUR FORM OF GOVERNMENT The excesses of capitalism have made old school socialist Bernie Sanders popular in the USA

GROWING DISGRUNTLEMENT Looking back over the recorded history of human civilisation you would draw the conclusion that we have reached the stage of madness and decadence that is the prelude to a large fall or even collapse of society. Certainly, the world seems to be speeding up, becoming increasingly illmannered and selfish, self-obsessed and violent, with the gap between rich and poor expanding as rapidly as the population continues to spill over and wreck the environment.

Far from being more tolerant, respectful, rational and peaceful, the world is increasingly becoming a place of hatred, violence and extremism. What’s more, virtually all those on the barricades – be they reactionaries, feminists, LGBT activists, minorities, religious zealots or neo-Nazis – appear to be equally radical and intolerant, and where once this was limited to the Third World it has now well and truly entered the advanced societies too.

Many of us have more material prosperity than ever before, yet we grow increasingly angry and dissatisfied. Everyone seems angry. Young Muslims brought up in Sweden and France turn their back on the very West that fed, clothed and protected them, only to join murderous fanatics in pursuit of some Fourth Reich in the desert.

Though they live in the only society known to mankind where men and women are officially equal, today’s feminists attack a largely imaginary patriarchal conspiracy against them while totally ignoring the plight of women across the rest of the world.

Disgruntled unemployed masses are easy targets for more extremist viewpoints, be it the

poisonous ideology of radicalised Islam, the marching bands of neoNazis or those who promise to roll back the onslaught of globalist capitalism. The latter also feeds extreme left-wing groups, as does the continued abuse of the environment, just as the growing waves of mass immigration and the taboo surrounding this subject are leading more and more people to anti-immigration parties.

What I’m saying is that populism is not the issue or the problem, it is the symptom of an existing problem that has its roots elsewhere – in all the issues mentioned above, from unemployment and economic exclusion to fears about the environment and corporate dictatorship, and indeed fatigue with the never-ending burning platforms of liberal fanatics. Whether it’s economic, political, social or cultural in nature, there are many reasons right now why all kinds of people are steering away from the establishment that has ruled them since the 1940s. Firstly, such parties have become like corporations themselves, telling the voter what he/she wants to hear, only to do as they please anyway.

People in the West have a renewed sense that they are not being listened to by their leaders, that their leaders are not acting in their interests or those of their country, and that their futures are slipping away from them in an increasingly scary and hostile world. In the face of all this angst and all these uncertainties, the distant political elites seem not to recognise what we feel and just want business to carry on as usual. Of course, because

that suits them, but not many of us.

Populism isn’t the problem, the current malaise that leads people to it is. It is the product of the abuse that led to its creation, just as extreme capitalism and poverty in the past led to the rise of communism and fascism, so now we have a resurgence of populism and also the existence of militant expansionist Islamism. Add to this the revival of global competition and tensions, this time between the USA, China and Russia, and the conditions for a reaction were long in the making.

Power brokers shouldn’t ask themselves why people are moving to populist movements, be they right or left-wing, much less criticise and sensor them in the name of ‘freedom’, but come to grips with the fact that their failings have led us here, and focus on how best to fix what they have broken. e

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w THE TRENDcinema

CUTILLAS COMPILED BY MARISA

THE MONTH e BLOCKBUSTER OF ndes » DIRECTOR Sam Me ad) Ro y nar (Revolutio » GENRE War ay, Benedict » CAST George MacK arles Chapman Ch Cumberbatch, Dean-

g of 1917 st World War in the Sprin At the height of the Fir Schofield rs, die sol tish Bri ng you in northern France, two an), ke (Dean-Charles Chapm (George MacKay) and Bla deliver a to n: sio mis ible oss imp are given a seemingly l occur rn of an ambush that wil message which will wa g Line bur den Hin the to t rea ret soon after the German inst time, aga e rac rs h. The soldie during Operation Alberic rning and wa the r ive del to ry rito crossing dangerous ter on of 1,600 British men. save the lives of a battali

1917

» DIRECTOR Robert Eggers (The Tell-Tale Heart) » GENRE Drama » CAST Willem Dafoe, Robert Pattinson, Valeriia Karaman

The Lighthouse

Director and writer Robert Eggers takes two lighthouse keepers (played by Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe) to the edge of sanity in this sometimes surreal film about the way that isolation can affect the psyche and cause human beings to behave in very unsuspected ways. The madness begins when the older keeper begins allocating increasingly difficult jobs to the younger one. Rebellion, confrontation, and violence ensue as each of the keepers aims to be the last man standing.

» DIRECTOR Rupert Goold (True Story) » GENRE Biography » CAST Renée Zellweger, Michael Gambon, Rufus Sewell, Finn Wittrock

Judy

Renée Zellweger plays one of the most talented performers of all time: Judy Garland. Best known for her role as Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Garland was a child star, award-winning actor, and mother to Liza Minnelli. In this emotionally-packed biography we discover the price she had to pay for fame.

» DIRECTOR William Eubank (The Signal) » GENRE Suspense » CAST Kristen Stewart, T.J. Miller, Vincent Cassel, John Gallagher Jr.

Underwater

A hardworking crew descends deep into the ocean for research purposes but, suddenly, an earthquake devastates their laboratory, and they have to make their way back to land. Unfortunately, the challenge is made even more insurmountable by an unsuspected enemy from the deep.

» DIRECTOR Stephen Gaghan (Gold) » GENRE Adventure/ Comedy » CAST Tom Holland, Robert Downey Jr., Michael Sheen, Rami Malek

The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle

An eccentric doctor discovers by chance that he has a special gift: he can talk to animals!

Enigmatic actor, Robert Downey Jr plays the great doctor himself, who takes his crew of furry, slimy, wild BFFs on a voyage to be remembered. e

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WHY WE JUST CAN’T WAIT FOR

FANTASY ISLAND 2020 Y

ou would think that the scriptwriters would have run out of ideas in around 10 episodes, but no. They were ultra-creative and every episode was riveting – sometimes in a funny way but often in a tense, suspenseful manner. In one scary episode (The Ghost’s Story), a young woman who dreams of being a famous medium is forced to actually live through a terrifying experience in a haunted mansion. In another (With Affection, Jack the Ripper), a female criminologist sets out to discover the identity of Jack the Ripper, only to find herself targeted as his next victim!

Arguably the most original episode is The Challenge. Here, a billionaire lands on the island and his wish (which must be granted) is to own the island itself.

Well someone has fed on the audience’s nostalgic love for this amazing series, and next month, the new Fantasy Island movie is slated for release. There is a big twist, though; don’t expect the series’ happy endings, in which

nearly every client yearns for their ordinary life. This island plays into the audience’s subconscious fears and traumas, going from thriller to horror in a matter of minutes. Mr. Roarke (this time played by Michael Peña) is back, but he is a little more sinister than we remember him. It begins as expected, with guests revealing their simplistic, predictable wishes. Eventually, however, their fantasies start to twist and they discover that they will never be allowed to leave the island unless they solve a mystery.

One character is a young woman who has always wanted to take revenge on her school bully. Suddenly, she finds herself in control of a torture chamber in which the actual exbully is held in a glass cell. Another character becomes haunted by a loved one from the past who ‘returns to life’ on the island. The film is terrifying but fun all at once; a bit like Jordan Peele’s Us with a heavier dose of black comedy.

The cast is promising indeed. Peña is

If you were into American TV shows in the 1970s and 1980s, then you may have been hooked on one of the top series of the time – Fantasy Island, similar in feel and style to The Love Boat but infinitely more surreal.

Starring in the series was Ricardo Montalban – who played Mr. Roarke – a suave millionaire who owned an island in an unknown part of the world. His personal assistant, Tattoo (Hervé Villechaize) delivered one of the most famous opening lines of all times in any series: “The plane, boss, the plane!” he would yell hoarsely, as a group of wide-eyed guests arrived on the island that offered them something very special: the chance to make their dream – any dream – come true.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

arguably best known for his leading role in Narcos: Mexico, but he has also shone in CHIPS, Ant-Man, and Clint Eastwood’s The Mule. Lucy Hale, meanwhile, who plays the bully victim, is an ‘it’ girl best known for the cult series Pretty Little Liars and Life Sentence, and the films Truth or Dare and Dude. She is particularly good in horror, her wide-eyed innocence belying a quite steely interior that comes through in moments of action.

Perhaps it is true that the magic of the original Fantasy Island can never be replicated.

Glamorous, fun, and just a little kitsch, it tapped into some of the most popular fantasies in the world – everything from being a millionaire to having an army of followers, or being the belle of the ball. As is the case in the film, the fantasies often became a little sour, but on the odd occasion, they went as well as expected.

In all cases, people left the island bolder, braver, and just a little happier with life exactly as it is.

It can’t hurt to dream, though, can it? e

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BILLIE EILISH

w THE TREND music

¿QUÉ PASA?

PET SHOP BOYS

WORDS RIK FOXX

Málaga's Sala París has Spain's 2019 Eurovision entry MIKI NÚÑEZ live on January 17 and Spain's top DIRE STRAITS traibute act bROTHERS iN bAND on February 1. Ticket info: ticketmaster.es LIONEL RITCHIE and ARA MALIKIAN are the first international acts named for Marbella's Starlite Festival on July 27 and August 12.

There are also several Spanish artists booked and tickets are now on sale, for more info: starlitemarbella.com; and tickets are on sale for Torre del Mar’s Weekend Beach Festival (July 1 to 4) but no news on headlining acts yet. Ticket info: weekendbeach.es

Two of Spain's biggest festivals are taking place on the same weekend. Madrid's Mad Cool Festival features the KINGS OF LEON, TAYLOR SWIFT, BILLIE EILISH, FOALS and THE KILLERS from July 8 to 11. The latter, who will be promoting their Spring landing new album, Imploding The Mirage, are also headlining the Bilbao BBK Live Festival (July 9 to 11) along with KENDRICK LAMAR, THE RAPTURE and the PET SHOP BOYS. Tickets are available from their respective official sites or ticketmaster.es During the early hours of Monday February 3 the prestigious American football Superbowl half-time show in Miami features JENNIFER LOPEZ and SHAKIRA, who turns 43 that day. It will be live on BBC 1, Sky Sports and on-line at about 01:30 (CET). LADY GAGA will kick-start the Superbowl weekend off with a

performance at the AT&T TV Super Saturday Night concert the night before.

AEROSMITH are taking their current Las Vegas show on the road to celebrate their 50th year together once the aforementioned residency finishes in June and one of their first stops will be Glastonbury's 50th anniversary festival a few weeks later. They come to Madrid for their only Spanish date on July 3. Ticket info: livenation.es

The music of PRINCE lives on through his backing band, the NEW POWER GENERATION, who reformed last year for a tribute world tour featuring former members including long time collaborator MORRIS HAYES plus 30-year old America's Got Talent singer MACKENZIE GREEN. Due to the on-stage buzz the band have penned new songs and plan to release an album this year. HAYES said, "We have at least three pounders which show NPG still has it, songs that would make Prince proud".

The PUSSYCAT DOLLS reunion is going well (so far) and a new album is "in the works".

Their UK TV performance last month had over 600 complaints about their dress code but it wasn't announced how many thumbs up it got (apparently a 100 times more).

Film news: the team behind Bohemian Rhapsody have secured the rights for a MICHAEL JACKSON biopic which is said to span his entire life from child star in the JACKSON 5 to his death in June 2009. They have also bagged the rights to make a BEE GEES biopic with the Paramount studio, who have reportedly bought the rights to the Bee Gees songs from the Gibb Estate. But there is a lot of bad feeling about the proposed Bohemian Rhapsody sequel from the singer's friends and some of the original film's actors which is said to concentrate on the later years of his life.

ROBBIE WILLIAMS

As in years gone by, January is quiet once the festive period wraps up but there are bound to be tribute artists playing along the coast so check your local weekly publications for any last minute arranged gigs. All information on this page was correct at the time of writing.

BILLIE EILISH, LIZZO and LIL NAS X have all been nominated for three Grammys each. The awards take place on January 26 in LA and UK TV channel 4Music is expected to air the highlights show.

Spotify announced the most streamed artist of the 2010s is Canadian rapper DRAKE with 28 billion hits. Shape of You by ED SHEERAN is the most popular song with 2.4 billion plays while 2019's top tune was Señorita by SHAWN MENDES & CAMILA CABELLO with just over a billion streams.

Glastonbury organiser's wants list; they have also asked FLEETWOOD MAC to reconsider about playing.

Meanwhile MEL (the mouth) B is still harping on saying the SPICE GIRLS should be invited to perform.

What do you get the cast of your new musical for opening night?

What's a suitable gift to say "Thank you" to the actors, singers and dancers who have spent months rehearsing your songs – well ROBBIE WILLIAMS gave them all a copy of his latest album, which apparently didn't go down too well.

Last year was also bad for OZZY OSBOURNE due to health problems but in 2020 he is scheduled to release a new album, Ordinary Man, this month. He is also going back on the road (support from MARILYN MANSON) in the US from May concluding with a Las Vegas special on July 31. And daughter KELLY reckons a new series of their hit MTV reality series is on the cards.

2019 was a mixed year for TAYLOR SWIFT. She lost the rights to her back catalogue but finished first on the world’s top-earning musician's list bagging (pre-tax) $185 million and she is also on

After COLDPLAY announced they will not tour due to environment concerns a joke is doing the rounds in the music biz saying there will be a lot less rubbish going through people's ears. e

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w THE TRENDreading

TOP READS FOR JANUARY If one of your New Year’s Resolutions for 2020 involves reading more, these best-sellers will certainly make your goal a breeze! WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS ME BY ELTON JOHN

If you love the music of Elton John, then this book – his first-ever official autobiography – is a must if you wish to discover how he transformed from a shy boy with Buddy Holly glasses to a veritable living legend. John’s life has been tinged with dramatic episodes – from the string of rejections he faced earlier in his career, to the death of his good friends John Lennon, Freddie Mercury, and George Michael. It’s not all a bucket of tears, though. Elton also brightens our day with the story of how he met the love of his life – David Furnish – and how they decided to become parents.

A WARNING

BY ANONYMOUS

This top-selling bomb is an exposé of the behind-the-scenes workings of the Trump government. Penned by a former senior official of America’s 45th President, it points to a government that is characterised by instability and chaos. The trickiest part of keeping this motley crew afloat, it seems, is keeping the President’s reckless impulses to a minimum.

A MINUTE TO MIDNIGHT

BY DAVID BALDACCI

There doesn’t seem to be a single month in which David Baldacci isn’t on the world best-seller lists and this book makes it easy to see why. Rivetting and page-turning, it tells the story of Atlee Pine – a woman whose twin sister Mercy was abducted while their parents partied downstairs. Notorious serial killer, Daniel James Tor is hellbent on taunting Atlee, leading her to suspect that he may hold a vital clue in the discovery of what happened to Mercy.

THE GIVER OF STARS

BY JOJO MOYES

Based on a true story rooted in America’s past, this Depression-era novel follows five women who deliver books as part of Eleanor Roosevelt’s new travelling library scheme. Alice is a young woman who marries a handsome American to escape her stifling life in England. However, she discovers small-town life can be just as unfulfilling. She joyfully accepts the chance to join ‘the Packhorse Librarians of Kentucky’, finding a true friend in Margery – a sassy woman who isn’t about to let convention stand in her way.

TWISTED TWENTY-SIX

BY JANET EVANOVICH

Grandma Mazur has decided to tie the knot yet again – this time to a local gangster called Jimmy with a fair share of enemies. Sadly for Gran, the groom drops dead of a heart attack 45 minutes after saying, “I do.” A sad day for the family turns into something far more sinister when Jimmy’s former colleagues are convinced that Gran is keeping the keys to a financial windfall all to herself. Little do they realise that they will soon be facing their toughest opponent yet – Stephanie, the widow’s bounty hunter granddaughter, who has more guts and bravado than they bargained for. e

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BUILDING YOUR CHILD’S FOUNDATION FOR LIFE Our Foundation Department encourages and nurtures all our children to blossom into happy, enthusiastic and independent individuals. We are a family-orientated school, which strives to create a friendly and caring environment. We aim to enable our students to reach their full potential and grow into resourceful, responsible and resilient adults.

New Admissions for Early Years September 2020 Closing Date: Monday, 27th April 2020 00 34 952 77 32 48 or via email: primary@swansschool.net www.swansschoolinternational.es

POSITIVITY, PROACTIVITY AND PRIDE

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w THE TREND technology

Never before has getting home and turning your playlist on seemed so appealing. We bring you a selection of beautifully designed Blutooth speakers that will also make the experience far more aesthetically pleasing in 2020.

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BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS FOR A TOP SOUND

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EXPERIENCE COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

1– LEXON HOOP BLUETOOTH SPEAKER LA95MC6 COPPER BY THE DESIGN GIFT SHOP With this Bluetooth MINIFORMS CARUSO MUSICAL SIDEBOARD WITH YELLOW TRUMPET SPEAKER BY GO MODERN FURNITURE The unique Caruso sideboard with a highquality sound system. Designed by the internationally recognised, award-winning designer Paolo Cappello for Italian brand Miniforms, it boasts Bluetooth 4.0 connection, and a ceramic ‘trumpet’ speaker on the front which delivers high quality sound. i www.gomodern.co.uk

speaker, you can stream content from any Bluetooth device like your iPhone or tablet. It is equipped with two 36mm drivers and hands-free function and its volume is controlled by touch sensor buttons on the back. i www.thedesigngiftshop.com

2 – BLUETOOTH SPEAKER BY KSL LIVING Measuring 37 x 37 x 37cm, this luxurious Bluetooth speaker weighs just 1.6kg, can be easily carried anywhere you need it, and delivers topquality sound. i www.ksl.living.fr 3 – LEFF AMSTERDAM/ PIET HEIN EEK TUBE-SHAPED BLUETOOTH SPEAKER BY LIME LACE LEFF Amsterdam and Piet Hein Eek have collaborated on this stylish metallic speaker, crafted from stainless steel and compatible with your mobile phone, tablet, and laptop. It features a volume adjuster, LED charging indicator, USB cable, charger, and more. i www.limelace.co.uk

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w THE TRENDwhat’s cool

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INA CATALANA AURANT WINDSOR CU CHEESE TR AYS AT RESTcelona is attracting diners from far and wide with Restaurant Windsor in Bar and aromas of its brand new cheese selection, the gorgeous presentation ses everything from a robust Roques t hou served in a glass box tha de Sort. Enjoyed with a fine bottle of wine, í Blanques to a creamy Tup ! i www.restaurantwindsor.com ible cheese is always irresist

IN ESTEPONA ED FOR MURAL ROUTE NE W WORK COMMISSIONepona is a great reason to catch art in an open

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DA ESPAÑA 2019 PATRICIA CHECA IS LINimed LInda España

Patricia Checa was procla ros Spa & Golf nte 2019 at the Hotel Los Mo nt aims to discover Resort 5* recently. The eve prestigious line-up of da new talent and it feature undo Arrocet and the Edm ed lud inc ich wh ges jud Ágatha Ruiz de la lovely Cósima Ramírez from m .co oda am uev Prada. i www.n

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JACK AND MICHAEL WHITEHALL GO AGAINST THE TIDE WITH LAND ROVER

Comedian and actor Jack Whitehall and his father Michael recently put the Land Rover Discovery’s Advanced Tow Assist technology to the test with an adrenaline-charged challenge.

Jack had to reverse a caravan along a narrow, single-track causeway, beating the speed of the relentless incoming tide – all under the watchful eye of his father! i www.landrover.com

CLASSIC BLUE 19-4052 IS THE COLOUR OF THE YEAR

It’s here, readers! Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2020 has been announced and it is none other than Classic Blue – a rich, deep azure that inspires luxury, elegance, and seriousness. If it’s time to replace your couch, wall colours, or accessories, why not take the plunge with this steaming hot hue?

MARC SEGARRA SHINES IN LOS ANGELES AND ON TOP SHOW MASTERCHEF

Marc Segarra, Chef of Abadia Retuerta LeDomaine, headed to LA recently to cook alongside Holly Jivin of The Bazaar by José Andrés. He was also recently a judge on MasterChef Celebrity, the cooking competition whose latest edition was won by the lovely Tamara Falcó. i www.abadia-retuerta.com

PICASSO TOWERS TO BECOME FIRST LUXURY DEVELOPMENT WITH CARDIAC ARREST PROTECTION IN SPAIN

Picasso Towers, set to raise the standard of high-end apartments in Málaga and beyond, will be one of the first developments to offer cardiac arrest protection to its residents.

The first tower will be equipped with 18 defibrillators along with private medical assistance. Picasso Towers, by Metrovacesa and Sierra Blanca Estates Development, will be fully completed by 2023 but the first residences will be ready by 2021. i www.malagapicassotowers.com

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VISIT US AT HALL 6 STAND A38-B37

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d the style

INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART DESIGN GARDENS FASHION

78 82 84 90

Kitchen Appliance Design Pink Home Décor Marc Jacobs Fashion Kaviar Gauche Fashion

WE DELVE INTO KITCHEN APPLIANCES AND LEARN HOW STYLES AND COLOURS ARE EVOLVING. PINK IS A HOT COLOUR IN DÉCOR THIS SEASON, AND EQUALLY SIZZLING ARE THE LATEST FASHIONS FROM MARC JACOBS AND KAVIAR GAUCHE.

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d THE STYLE decor Alessi – the pinnacle of designer style

KITCHEN APPLIANCES WHERE FUNCTION MEETS STYLE

Let’s face it, kitchen appliances are not decorative items, yet while first and foremost conceived as components each with their own specific task to perform, there is no reason not to make them look great as well.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ALESSI, SMEG AND KITCHENAID

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Functionality combined with retro futuristic styling sets Kitchen Aid apart

T

here was a time, now quite long ago, when a kitchen consisted of wooden cabinets, a workbench or table, a large wood-burning oven and a larder for stocking food. Gradually, the food cooler was added, then rudimentary washing machines and hand-operated presses for rinsing, before the electric revolution transformed the kitchen into the kind many of us have grown up with.

The gas stove and oven came into use in the 19th century, with the electric versions making their first appearance at the start of the 20th century. Modern versions of both have continued to this day, and the AGA cooker invented by the Swede Gustaf Dalén in 1922 also remains a firm favourite, especially in country homes.

It’s with the invention of the home refrigerator that many famous kitchen appliance names first emerged at the beginning of the 20th century, notable among them Kelvinator and Frigidaire from the USA, and Electrolux from Sweden.

Early General Electric and Philips fridges were no more than little cooled cabinets, but in time they grew and grew.

The now ubiquitous washing machine was first introduced during the same period, with names such as Germany’s Miele and the US brand Hoover among the many to reach homes around the world. Early female inventors played a role in the development of the concept, and in 1896 Josephine Cochrane, a society hostess from Illinois, took out a patent for the first dishwashing machine. Though the electric version would emerge in 1922, Cochrane’s original invention already laid the foundations for the dishwashers we use today.

from The Netherlands; Electrolux and AGA from Sweden; Miele, Bosch, Siemens, Braun, Bauknecht, Neff, Gaggenau and Rowenta from Germany; General Electric, Litton and Whirlpool from the USA; Gorenje from Slovenia; Russell Hobbs and Morphy Richards from the UK; Balay, Edesa and Fagor from Spain; Beko from Turkey; Panasonic and Kenwood from Japan.

In recent years, much production has shifted to lowercost countries such as Turkey, and the leading brands of large kitchen appliances now come mostly from South Korea, in the form of Samsung and LG. The microwave oven, which was a novelty introduced into the kitchen in the late seventies and early eighties, traces its original technological development back to the 1920s. It marks a midpoint in kitchen development, as it was the first new large appliance to appear in many years, and as such paved the way for the veritable revolution we are witnessing today.

FAMILIAR BRAND NAMES The company that came from Josephine Cochrane’s invention, KitchenAid, has gone on to be a classic, and is one of a long list of current and defunct names that have surrounded us for much of our lives, including: Indesit, Smeg, Zanussi and Candy from Italy; Philips

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A classic retro-modern toaster by KitchenAid adds colour to your kitchen

THE 21ST CENTURY KITCHEN Over the years, therefore, the kitchen has evolved and incorporated a growing array of technical appliances. Wooden cabinets gradually gave way to light steel ones in the 1950s, and this was subsequently followed by synthetic materials, with regular wood revivals in-between. Today, the space has come out of the kitchen and into the living areas, no longer typically separated by walls but now simply by a bar, or even occupying one of the walls of an open-plan living and dining room.

Kitchen design has become sleek and minimalist, with matt wood or shiny lacquered finishes predominating. The appliances, which for so long were white in colour so that they were collective termed ‘white goods’ are now increasingly metallic in tone and touch, with large, often double-door fridges boasting their own water and ice-cube dispensers. Ovens, hobs and extractor hoods are sleek and shiny, with the extractors having the capacity to appear from or disappear into a tidy cavity at the touch of a button. The thinking is that these days a kitchen should be functional and appealing, yet also minimalist in its appearance and visual impact.

In other words, it should blend into the background, complementing rather than dominating the décor of open-plan living spaces. For this reason the colours and textures are seldom bright and the lines usually linear. Great effort goes into creating effective use of storage space, and when washing machines and dishwashers cannot be exiled to a dedicated laundry space, they merge into the kitchen cabinetry, appearing as just another cupboard door to the untrained eye.

The Kitchen Aid food processor is available in a wide range of colours

A SPLASH OF COLOUR

Within this there are those who like to liven things up a little, and while most kitchens themselves remain rather clean and rectilinear, it is above all the smaller kitchen appliances that offer a chance to steer away from contemporary styles and add a touch of colour and frivolity. Naturally, metallic minimalism is a distinct option too, but there are niche brands that offer a range of stylishly different items with which to add a dash of high design and retro modern fun and elegance to this part of your home.

Bright colours and motifs add a dash of Smeg fun to your home or office

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A Smeg kitchen set

SMEG

This Italian designer appliance brand has built a name for fun-filled rounded shapes, bright happy colours and products that are just as practical as they are pretty to behold. A Smeg fridge, toaster, mixer, kettle or coffee maker might just be what your somewhat too serious kitchen needs to give it some good-looking sense of fun and style. The designs are prettily retro-modern in the style of the Fiat 500, and their colour ranges suit both boys, girls and those who cohabitate. Smeg have even added a range of ovens, extractors and dishwashers to round off an assortment of appliances that you can’t wait to use.

KITCHENAID

Who says Smeg also says KitchenAid, for while the two brands have their own distinct character they clearly inhabit the same niche of the market. The American brand looks a little more businesslike, but every bit as retro-attractive, with the iconic food processor scoring top points for its looks. Like Smeg, KitchenAid also produces contemporary designs, but not surprisingly it is the elegantly curved and attractively colour-toned ones that catch the eye.

Retro styled but modern KitchenAid blender

Alessi offers the ultimate in kitchen chic

ALESSI

The ultimate designer brand, Alessi produces smaller kitchen items that represent styling in its purest form. While its teapots, coffee makers and juice extractors are certainly design-led, the name would not have survived had they not also been practical and functional. And if the items you peruse look as if they were designed by architects you’ve hit it on the nail, for the range contains pieces created by the likes of Zaha Hadid, Jean Nouvel, Toyo Ito and Philippe Starck.

Whether you enjoy linear modern geometry and stark efficiency or like to splurge out on a bit of colour, fun and frivolity in your kitchen, the cabinets, large appliances and smaller items offer a world of design options that are further enhanced by lighting, artwork and, of course, modern domotics that will have your meal or cup of coffee ready when you get home.

Welcome to the kitchen of tomorrow. e

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OSLO BENCH BY CHAPLINS FURNITURE

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“Latest Project in La Zagaleta” · Luxury Interiors · Interior Architecture · Building & Refurbishments · Bespoke Furniture Design · 3D Renderings · Project Management

Established in 2002, Ambience is an Internationally recognised Interior Architecture & Design firm based in Marbella. We are experts in full refurbishments and deliver breath-taking turnkey projects to our clients around the globe. From the initial design concept, to the placement of the last design detail, our talented and multilingual team will supervise all aspects of the project to transform our clients’ two-dimensional dreams into a three-dimensional reality. The projects range from interior design and furnishings, to full refurbishment projects. Our absolute #1 goal at Ambience is to clearly identify our client’s vision and needs in order to deliver spaces that are not only distinguished, vivacious and dynamic but make them feel instantly at home.

Blvd. Principe Alfonso de Hohenlohe C.C. La Poveda, Local 6, 29602, Marbella, Málaga, Spain Tel: (+34) 952 858 699 • Email: info@ambiencehomedesign.com • www.ambiencehomedesign.com

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d THE STYLEfashion

TRENCHCOATS WITH VOLUME RULE

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“I always find beauty in things that are odd and imperfect - they are much more interesting,” says Marc Jacobs, and in this year’s Winter collection, we find his interest in shapes and details as beguiling as ever. These are just a few highlights from this critically acclaimed collection.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

MARC JACOBS WINTER 2020 COLLECTION

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CELESTIAL INSPIRATIONS

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CAPES ARE BACK

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CASUAL YET CHIC

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NIGHT SENSATIONS i www.marcjacobs.com

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d THE STYLEfashion

KAVIAR GAUCHE BERLIN Celebrates 10 Years

Wedding fashion brand Kaviar Gauche, known for combining avante-garde designs with French elegance, is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a collection that is breathtaking and just a little bit on the edge. Check out some of these most eyecatching designs. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

in Bridal Fashion

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MC Retreats

Transformational Breath with Rebecca Dennis 29th January - 2nd February

Rebecca and the Marbella Club Wellness Team will take you on a powerful journey with your breath to help detoxify the mind and body. Transformational Breath uses a connected breath pattern that awakens the wisdom and healing possibilities found within the breath.This can help improve your breathing system, mental and physical performance and let go of unhealthy breathing habits.

For more informarion about our complete 2020 Wellness Retreat Programme, please contact: wellness@marbellaclub.com

MARBELLA CLUB Bu le va r Pr Ă­n c ip e A l f o n s o v o n Ho h e n l o h e , s /n , 2 9 6 0 2 , Ma r b e l l a , MĂĄ l a g a , S p a i n Te le p h o n e ( + 3 4 ) 9 5 2 8 2 2 2 1 1 m a r b e l l a c l u b w e l l n e s s . c o m

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PRODUCTS BEAUTY SPA SCIENCE TREATMENTS HEALTH

94 96 100 102

Anastasia Beverly Hills Top Luxury Palettes The Raw Food Craze Non-Surgical Options at Ocean Clinic

ANASTASIA SOARE’S STORY IS ONE FROM RAGS TO RICHES. DISCOVER THE INCREDIBLE PASSION THAT GAVE RISE TO TOP BEAUTY BRAND, ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS. HARDWORKING CLINICAL DIETICIAN, DR. REBECA ERIKSEN, ENLIGHTENS US ON THE RAW FOOD MOVEMENT. FINALLY, DR. KAI KAYE OF OCEAN CLINIC EXPLAINS THE LATEST NON-SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION METHODS!

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Always on top of my health with...

THE INTERNATIONAL CENTER OF EXPERTISE FOR CARDIO-VASCULAR DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPY IN MARBELLA Expert Team of Internationally Trained Doctors

Latest high tech equipment includes the newest Siemens hemodynamic cath lab for cardio-vascular interventions: coronary and peripheral artery stenting procedures, pacemaker insertion, interventional, non-surgical heart valve repair TAVI (newest European cardiology guidelines), 3D Cardiac Ultrasound, various dynamic stress test procedures, advanced arrhythmia diagnostics, cardiac CT and MRI

Co-located at HC-international Hospital Marbella, CardioCare benefits from the unique high standard hospital infrastructure offered.

At CardioCare we believe in solutions Whether you are a cardiac patient or looking for an extensive cardio-vascular check-up, we don’t just find the problem, we also give you the solution.

Calle Ventura del Mar 11, 29660 Marbella • Tel.: +34 677759003 www.cardiocaremarbella.com • info@cardiocaremarbella.com

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n THE SPAbeauty

Anastasia Beverly Hills, the brand founded and run by Anastasia Soare, is easily one of the beauty world’s top selling – and bravest – brands. Top-selling because palettes like Riviera, Jackie Aina, and Carli Bybel are selling like hotcakes and bravest because in a world in which a brand can release a product or line every six months, launches never stop at ABH, with Anastasia’s daughter Norvina recently releasing her Pro Pigment Palettes (Volumes 1, 2, and 3) practically at the same time as the release of the Jackie Aina and Carli Bybel palettes. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS LOVED BY PROS AND NEWBIES ALIKE

WHO IS ANASTASIA SOARE?

Anastasia Beverly Hills is arguably one of the most revered make-up brands owing to the excellence of its products (I am ashamed to admit I own three of the brand’s palettes and don’t regret a single euro spent). For me, the winning combo lies in the original colour stories (check out the Riviera or Jackie Aina palettes to see how well the brand combines colours) and the pigment.

This is the type of brand that blends buttery smooth, with the tiniest of dabs going a long way in terms of payoff (vividness of hue).

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Anastasia Soare is a Romanian-born entrepreneur who launched her brand in 1997. Anastasia Beverly Hills was based on ‘the sacred geometry of the Golden Ratio’. The brand sparked what is now known as the ‘brow revolution’, using the ‘Golden Ratio Eyebrow Shaping Method’ to make fuller, nicely arched brows a possibility for so many make-up lovers with sparse brows.

RAGS TO RICHES

Soare’s story is pretty spectacular. She left her homeland for the U.S. in her youth without any language skills or financial means, educating herself in art and

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architecture and inspiring herself on these interests to fuel her entrepreneurial vision. A true visionary, she went beyond brows fairly early in the company’s history, turning her eye to colour and connecting with customers through video tutorials and personal appearances across the globe.

She has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, People, Vanity Fair, Vogue, Elle, and Allure, also shining on toprated TV shows such as The Oprah Winfrey Show, and America’s Next Top Model. Soare also runs The Anastasia Brighter Horizon Foundation, which supports and advances the lives of young adults exiting the foster care system.

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“Growth is never by mere chance; it is the result of forces working together” S JC Penney

ince 2007 – the year Cirumed Clinic was founded by plastic and aesthetic surgeon, Dr. Alexander Aslandi and his wife, Jeannine Aslani – it has gone from strength to strength in terms of its size, installations, and most importantly, its team.

Evolving from a consultation clinic to one with a 1,300m2 operating area, and boasting a sizeable medical spa, the clinic has always given high priority to attracting top talent in the medical field. Dr. Aslani is known worldwide for his Brazilian butt lifts and body contouring surgeries, but he is surrounded by surgeons (both permanent staff and guests) who have achieved international acclaim for everything from breast augmentation to male aesthetic surgery. Today, Dr. Aslani is delighted to present his patients to Dr. Miguel Gómez Bravo, whose experience and training are up there with the best.

dr.miguel gómez bravo JOINS THE DEDICATED TEAM AT CIRUMED PHOTO, DR.GÓMEZ BRAVO & DR.ASLANI

Early Beginnings Dr.

Gómez Bravo obtained his medical degree at the University of Navarra, coming in 84th out of 14,000 students in the official MIR exams. Attracted by the Ramón y Cajal Hospital in Madrid's excellent reputation for plastic and aesthetic surgery, he chose to complete his speciality in this institution. He has a long and vast trajectory that includes attending to patients and sharing his knowledge with other doctors at centres like the University of Alcalá and the University of Navarra. He also directed the healthcare units of ASEDA – a small NGO in Lamin, Gambia.

International Experience

Dr. Gómez Bravo has not shied away from travel. During his training, he visited internationally renowned centres such as Memorial Sloan Kettering in New York, the Boston Children's Hospital, Chicago University, and Chang Gung Memorial (in Taiwan).

Building a Reputation Liaising with other doctors is a vital part of learning and

growth, and Dr. Gómez Bravo has risen to the occasion, representing other resident doctors at the Spanish Society for Plastic Surgery's (SECPRE) teaching foundation. He has fulfilled similar functions for the International Confederation of Plastic Surgery Societies (ICOPLAST) and the European Association of Societies of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (EASAPS). In 2017, he became the youngest ever doctor in Spain to pass the European Board of Plastic Surgery (EBOPRAS) exams.

After passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), he worked as a Fellow at the Plastic Surgery division of the Beth Israel Medical Center/Harvard Medical School in Boston. He focused his research on breast surgery, lymphedema, and facial transplantation.

Prizes to be Proud Of

Dr. Gómez Bravo has won many prizes and received numerous distinctions, including: The Hackathon Health Prize for innovation, for DrenApp – a mobile app for the automatic measurement of surgical drains. In collaboration with IOON technologies.

A prize from the Spanish Society of Plastic, Restorative and Aesthetic Surgery for his work, Animal model of tissue oedema following ischemia reperfusion injury in myocutaneous flap: generation and imaging techniques for its evaluation.

The Sanitas Prize 2018 for the best education and professional trajectory.

Dr. Gómez-Bravo on New Trends in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery When asked about this new phase in his illustrious career, Dr.

Gómez Bravo answers, “At Cirumed Clinic, our patients are the core focus of our activity and our goal is to provide them with excellent attention and the most advanced treatments in existence with safety and attention to detail.”

With your experience in breast surgery, what are the latest trends in this field?

“Thanks to improvements in reconstructive surgery, we have seen a considerable number of risk-reducing mastectomies in the U.S. Some have called it 'the Angelina Jolie effect', since she openly shared her experience with the world. As she was the carrier of a genetic mutation that increased her risk for breast cancer, she decided to have a mastectomy alongside immediate reconstruction to reduce her risk. We have seen a big rise in requests for this procedure owing to significant improvements in genetic diagnostics and reconstructive techniques, which allow us to preserve the aureola-nipple complex in these cases.”

“In the case of aesthetics, combining implants with a patient's own fat for breast augmentations has permitted more natural results, reducing the 'separated breast effect' that occurred in many cases. We call this a compound or hybrid augmentation.

It allows us to lend greater harmony to the cleavage and breast contours.”

“Many patients have also been requesting the removal of their implants when they reach a certain age or for other reasons.

Currently, when indicated, we can substitute the implants with a patient's own fat and with the help of different surgical techniques, we can avoid the 'empty' appearance that can arise following the removal of implants.”

What other trends in plastic surgery are on the rise?

“Without a doubt, male aesthetic surgery. New techniques like high-definition liposculpture, allow us to improve muscle definition, particularly in the abdominal area. This has brought many male patients to our clinics. This treatment is usually combined with gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia surgery, to reduce the size of abnormally large breasts in men.”

Congratulations to Cirumed for bringing Marbella such a talented surgeon and to Dr. Gómez Bravo himself for embarking on an experience that will hopefully be one of the highlights of his brilliant career!

n THE SPA health

THE RAW

FOODISM DIET

The theory behind raw foodism started already in the 1800s when Swiss doctor, Maximilian Bircher-Benner cured many of his patients by giving them only raw foods.

The popularity of raw foods has since spread and evolved over the decades to sushi (raw fish), carpaccio (meat), cold pressed juices and unpasteurised milk.

WORDS REBECA ERIKSEN, CLINICAL DIETICIAN

SHOULD WE EAT ALL OUR FOODS RAW? Many raw plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts/seeds, wholegrains are packed with natural vitamins, phytonutrients, and enzymes, which can easily be destroyed by heat, especially highly sensitive vitamins like C and B complex.

Yet, not all raw food has equal nutritional advantage over cooked. A study found that a higher amount of the antioxidant lycopene is released from tomatoes when they're cooked (1) . The British Journal of Nutrition also found that people following a 100 per cent raw food diet had low levels of lycopene (2). Similar benefits have been reported with mushrooms and asparagus – their content of phytochemicals quercetin, lutein, and zeaxanthin increases when cooked (3).

Evidence from other non-plantbased foods like meat, eggs and fish shows little health and nutritional benefits from being eating raw vs

cooked. There have been conflicting studies suggesting the nutritional quality of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid may slightly degrade when fish is cooked at very high heat. However, animal products like fish, milk and meat are highly prone to grow pathogen bacteria like Listeria and E coli, which are potentially deadly.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EATING RAW FOODS? Many studies have found strong links between eating a raw diet and weight loss. One theory is that raw (unprocessed) wholefoods contain a much higher amount of indigestible dietary fibres that are present mainly in plant-based foods like nuts, fruits and vegetables. These fibres stimulate gut hormones like GLP-1 and PYY, which suppress ‘hunger’ hormones like leptin, and ghrelin.

Another health benefit of raw whole foods is that they have a low calorie count – since many macronutrients

bypass absorption in the small intestine.

A study published last month in Nature Microbiology investigated how raw vs cooked foods alter the composition in the gut’s microbiome and compared their health benefits (4) . Researchers discovered the influence of meat was the same regardless of whether it was cooked or not. However, raw plant-based foods like beets, corn, and carrots altered the gut microbiota and positive metabolic pathways, leading to a lower absorption of calories and altered carbohydrate metabolism and weight loss.

THE TAKE HOME MESSAGE A raw plant-based food diet can accelerate weight loss, increase

vitamin/antioxidant levels and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

However, there can be nutritional and health consequences associated with eliminating all cooked foods. For a well-balanced diet, eat no more than 80 per cent of raw plant-based foods and preferably, cook most of your nonvegetarian foods such as meat, fish and seafood. g Dr. Rebeca Eriksen is based at Executive Health Marbella in the Helicopteros Sanitarios Hospital Marbella. CN340, Km. 175, Puerto Banús. Tel: 603 840 984. www.executivehealth.es

Resources: 1. Dewanto V, Wu X, Adom KK, Liu RH. Thermal processing enhances the nutritional value of tomatoes by increasing total antioxidant activity. J Agric Food Chem. 2002;50(10):3010-3014.

2. Garcia AL, Koebnick C, Dagnelie PC, et al. Long-term strict raw food diet is associated with favourable plasma beta-carotene and low plasma lycopene concentrations in Germans. Br J Nutr. 2008;99(6):12931300. 3. Fanasca S, Rouphael Y, Venneria E, Azzini E, Durazzo A, Maiani G. Antioxidant properties of raw and cooked spears of green asparagus cultivars. Int J Food Sci Technol. 2009;44(5):1017-1023.

4. Rachel N. Carmody, Jordan E. Bisanz, Benjamin P. Bowen, Corinne F. et al. Cooking shapes the structure and function of the gut microbiome. Nature Microbiology. 2019.

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“THE FUTURE OF ANTI-AGEING LIES IN COMBINING SURGICAL AND NON-SURGICAL MEDICINE”

DR. KAI KAYE

OF OCEAN CLINIC WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

I

t is amazing to think that just a few decades ago, a facelift consisted of little more than tightening facial skin, resulting in a look that was unnatural or ‘stretched’, because the other causes of facial ageing – loss of volume, for instance, were unable to be addressed. Today, the opposite is true. Plastic surgeons have been considerably liberated, thanks to the advent of groundbreaking technology and new techniques. Dr. Kai Kaye, founder of Ocean Clinic in Marbella, explains that “Botox, facial fillers, laser, and other procedures now enable doctors to rely on more than one technique – sometimes with no surgery at all and at other times with a combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches. Today, we have a vast array of nonor minimally-invasive methods that allow us to replace or simply delay the need for surgery. These techniques also enable us to maintain the effects of surgery for longer, so that patients can extend the time between surgical procedures.”

FACELIFTS AREN’T A CURE-ALL A facelift lifts sagging/drooping areas of skin, but one thing it does not address is the cause of skin ageing itself – loss of elasticity. Says Dr. Kaye, “Ocen Clinic is staffed with plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and other specialists who, together, can target the signs of ageing in a multi-faceted way. Patients who have facial rejuvenation surgery – an eyelift or a facelift, for instance – may find that after a few years, skin begins to age again. This is where technology can make a big difference.”

MICROFOCUSED ULTRASOUND (ULTHERA) FOR NEOCOLLAGENOSIS Treatments like Microfocused Ultrasound, also known as Ulthera, encourage the production of new collagen via thermal heating. “These devices heat the deep thermal layer, creating a thermal

microtrauma that reforms the skin’s elastic fibres.

Ulthera stimulates the production of collagen – one of the skin’s basic building blocks. It can be used as a stand-alone treatment or combined with others.”

The procedure, says Dr. Kaye, is ideal for women in their mid-40s and above, though he adds that “Biological age doesn’t give you the whole picture.”

FILLING IN THE GAP Fillers are an equally fantastic option for those wishing to look younger. As is the case with Ulthera, and other types of laser like Fraxel and Fractora, fillers are used in conjunction with both surgical and non-surgical procedures, for various conditions – everything from uneven skin to hyperpigmentation, acne scarring and active acne. “For some patients,” says Dr. Kaye, “we may recommend a filler plus Ulthera, followed by radiofrequency. It is interesting to use these different treatments close together, because each targets different layers of the skin.”

VENUS VIVA FOR SKIN RESURFACING Another popular treatment for those wishing to target fine lines and pores is Venus Viva – a fractional radiofrequency resurfacing technique that also corrects signs of skin damage, improves the appearance of acne scars, and targets stretch marks, deep wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. It involves using tiny pins that safely deliver heat (via nano-fractional radiofrequency) through the skin’s surface. This creates tiny micro-dermal damage that the skin then works to repair – thus increasing collagen and elastin fibres and causing skin to take on a smooth, youthful appearance. Venus Viva is safe for all skin tones, has little to no downtime, and is quick – a session lasts between 15 and 20 minutes! Radiofrequency is also combined with surgeries like liposuction, since “studies show that

using radiofrequency post liposuction significantly improves skin retraction and elasticity. It also reduces post-surgical scarring.”

TARGETING CELLULITE AND STUBBORN FAT Staying young isn’t just about facial rejuvenation, of course. One of the biggest bugbears women have is cellulite – the unsightly dimpling caused when fat cells push up against the skin while the bands that tether skin to the underlying muscle pull downwards. Dr. Kaye shows me before and after pictures of patients who have had Cellfina – a revolutionary new anti-cellulite treatment – and the results are no less than amazing (think dimplefilled to baby smooth from one picture to the next).

Cellfina is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that disrupts the bands that cause dimpling with the use of a minimally invasive device.

If stubborn fat is your predicament, then CoolSculpting (featuring FDA-approved Zeltiq technology) can help you reduce volume by ‘freezing’ fat cells to oblivion. CoolSculpting can target nearly all areas of the body – including the double chin, back, legs, waist, and abdomen.

Meeting Dr. Kai Kaye is always an educational experience, since he is a vast source of information regarding all the possibilities that new technologies have to offer. Depending on your goals, different approaches will be recommended. Sometimes, a treatment like Venus Viva may be enough to lend skin a more youthful glow. At other times, surgery plus a filler like Radiesse (which also stimulates the natural supply of collagen) or radiofrequency may be the ideal way to lift and smoothen skin.

g Ocean Clinic. Avda. Ramón y Cajal 7, Marbella.

Tel: 951 775 518. www.oceanclinic.net

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20 20

PLASTIC & AESTHETIC SURGERY AESTHETIC MEDICINE HOLISTIC DERMATOLOGY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

2020 WILL BE YOUR YEAR OF BEING BEAUTIFUL, AND THE OCEAN CLINIC TEAM WILL BE THERE TO HELP YOU BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOU! HAPPY NEW YEAR !

ZURICH - MARBELLA - MADRID

Av. Ramรณn y Cajal, 7 - 29601 Marbella 0034 951 775 518 - Mรณvil : 670 770 455 info@oceanclinic.net - www.oceanclinic.net

ÑL THE SOCIAL vibe

DA BRUNO 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Bruno, Giuseppina and their family have so much to be proud of. They recently celebrated 25 years of success and the Marbella Town Hall paid homage to them at an event attended by over 300 people. The Da Bruno Group currently has four restaurants which bear the Da Bruno name as well as their most recent venue Döss, and a new winery in Manilva, La Vigña. i www.dabruno.com

“The most important thing in the world is family and love” – John Wooden

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SEE & TOUCH PRESENTS SONY CRYSTAL LED

The recent See & Touch event, attended by architects and interior designers, saw Sony Professional reveal some of its newest products which have been recognised by the International Association of Audiovisual Experts, including the Crystal LED 110” screen and the outstanding home cinema projector SXRD in 4K. i www.seeandtouch.es

“Imagination is more important than knowledge” – Anonymous

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ACOOLA ORGANIC MOODS

Accola recently presented its new furniture brand, Dareels, at an Organic Moods Event – where design, art, and sustainability met. Dareels works with 100 per cent recycled materials that retain their natural character over time.

At the event, guests enjoyed organic wine and delicious finger food from OWL, Organic With Love. i www.acoola.eu

“When you put the whole picture together, recycling is the right thing to do” – Pam Shoemaker

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PRESENTATION OF MARBELLA – AN URBAN CASE STUDY Almost 200 guests came to participate in the presentation of a new coffee table book about Marbella at the Ralli Museum on Marbella’s Golden Mile.

Marbella, An Urban Case Study is the product of the collaboration between economist and writer Michel Cruz, architectural photographer Wayne Chasan and architect and town planner Luiyo Vazquez. In words, images and illustrations, they capture the essence of Marbella and chronicle its evolution over the years.

“Passion makes all things alive and significant” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

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SOLVILLA CHRISTMAS LUNCH

Solvilla Property Developers & Advisors recently hosted a Christmas lunch at Lobito del Mar, which was attended by many real estate agents and collaborators. The aim was simple: to celebrate the end of 2019 and look forward to a fantastic 2020! i www.solvilla.no

“The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job at hand, and determination” – Vince Lombardi

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COLLECTIVE CALLING CHRISTMAS GALA

Collective Calling, the hardworking charity that has built a Centre of Hope for children in Tanzania, recently hosted a Christmas Gala at Boho Club to raise funds for this worthy cause. The event featured live entertainment, a threecourse meal by Diego del Río, and a photo exhibition by Veronika Tye. i www.collectivecalling.org

“It is in giving that I connect with others, with the world and with the divine” – Isabel Allende

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BOHO CLUB HOTEL LAUNCH

Luxury boutique resort, Boho Club, recently invited friends, clients, and members of the press to view phase one of the hotel rooms and bungalows, with a view to the grand unveiling that will be taking place next year. The resort features two guests rooms, two heated pools, bungalow suites, and a private villa. It also boasts two restaurants – Boho Restaurant and Bernies, both run by the magnificent Diego del Río. i www.bohoclub.com

“Exclusivity to one desire is sincerity” – Krishna

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TRIPLE A GALA AT THE PUENTE ROMANO Puente Romano’s fabulous Sea Grill restaurant recently held a fundraising dinner for animal charity, Triple A. Guests tucked into a three course meal and enjoyed live music and entertainment by the sea all in a good cause with the hotel presenting a cheque for €20.000 to the charity. i www.tripleamarbella.org

“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened” – Anatole France

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ÑL THE SOCIAL teen talk

I must admit to having built quite a following at my school since my mates discovered I write for . I never fancied myself as a writer – more as a budding entrepreneur or better yet, a noneccentric Elon Musk peppered with a dash of Greta Thunberg and an eagerness to ‘change the world’. “You should be at school!” Greta would probably tell me (with great indignation), however, if she discovered my sinister plans, which involve stealing away to Amsterdam for Jeffree Star and MMMMitchell’s European Master Class Tour. WORDS JOFFREE KING

M

y little sister Sasha is coming along, of course, since she is just starting to get into makeup and mum loves JS and MM. However, when mum asked if I would like to come along for the long-ish weekend, both she and Sasha were surprised when I responded with a resounding “Yes!” As I mentioned, I am into business and enterprise and I do believe that you can learn and be inspired by meeting and listening to people who have made it big – as Jeffree Star has, literally from nothing.

With a sizeable net worth and various businesses, Star has always fascinated me, primarily because I think he is a genius.

Many people don’t know that earlier in his life, Jeffree Star was a musician. He started out with a Vine account (it became Vine’s most followed channel), but soon, his artistry and eccentric personality caught the attention of Akon, who signed Star up to his label, Konvict Muzik. Prior to this, Jeffree’s first and only studio album, Beauty Killer, reached number seven on the US Billboard Top Electronic Albums chart – not bad for someone who is now one of the most influential names in the beauty industry.

Back then, Akon described Star as “the next Lady Gaga.” Sadly, Star’s dreams were shattered in 2013 when Akon’s business folded under the scandal of legal problems. Star would later describe signing on to Konvict Muzik as a huge mistake. He also admits to struggling economically, though he refused to be defeated. Just one year later, he founded Jeffree Star Cosmetics, into which he placed his entire savings – a big risk that has clearly paid off. In November 2019, his collab with Shane Dawson – the ShaneXJeffree Conspiracy palette – became the biggest-selling palette in history, selling 1.1 million palettes in a matter of minutes, and quite literally ‘breaking the Internet’.

His tour with UK makeup artist and friend, MMMMitchell, will start in Dublin on January 1, then go onto Newcastle on January 12, Amsterdam on January 14, and Liverpool on January 17.

Sponsored by popular lashes company, Tatti Lashes, the event will see the artists giving vital tips and tricks, with MMMMitchell creating

one of his ultra-original looks on Jeffree. Afterwards, there will be a Meet & Greet, and I have to admit I am intrigued by what the event will hold. My sister and mom are excited because they will be getting goody bags with lots of products as well.

MMMMitchell is another super interesting guy. He is just 20 years old but has achieved so much in the industry, with an impressive client list and, like Jeffree, he began in music. When he was 17, he was in a boy band that actually made it to the bootcamp stage of the X-Factor in the UK. One

year later, he was appearing on the show American Beauty Star in the U.S., and was mentored by Beyoncés makeup artist, Sir John.

Today he has 1.1M followers on Instagram, and is arguably best known in the U.S. for the amazing work he does with Jeffree Star.

It is said that some are born into greatness and I do believe that for many great entrepreneurs, their talent is equally matched by a kind of light that cannot be hidden.

This ‘star quality’ seems to shine so brightly in some and I am keen to discover what it looks like from up-close! e

I’M FLYING TO AMSTERDAM

TO SEE JEFFREE STAR AND NTH O M S I H T L L E H MMMMITC

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pets THE SOCIAL L WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

PUPPY DOG EYES ARE THE RESULT OF EVOLUTION VETS USING HEAVY LIFTING EQUIPMENT TO HELP COPE WITH

OBESE PETS

Talk to your vet and they may just admit that one of the toughest parts of the job can involve the stress on the back and other muscles caused by lifting obese pets. According to The Independent, in the UK, vets are resorting to the use of hoists and electrically raised tables to treat these pets. Statistics show that around 42 per cent of vets in the UK have invested in extra lifting equipment – which is a big wakeup call for owners wishing their pets to live long and healthy lives. When was the last time you took your pet on a long walk? If you can’t remember, chances are you could use a little outdoors time yourself!

Dogs have developed new muscles around their eyes in order to communicate with humans – as found by researchers at the University of Portsmouth. The researchers compared the anatomy and behaviour of dogs and wolves, finding that dogs’ facial anatomy has changed over the years. In particular, the muscle above dogs’ eyes is smaller – a feature which allows them to raise their eyes to make the latter appear bigger – thus the term ‘puppy dog eyes’.

Wolves have a larger muscle, which makes this part of the face more immobile – and thus ‘less endearing’.

ISCARBS YOUR DOG CATS ATTRACTED TO ANGRY? SEEK Dogs gravitate towards high-fat treats, while cats prefer theirs carb-loaded – according to researchers at Oregon State University. Their study involved monitoring a group of healthy adult canines and felines over a month, using four dishes that tasted equally delicious. The aim was to allow pets to make macronutrient choices based on what their bodies craved.

The four diets covered were high fat, high carb, high protein, and balanced foods. Cats on average chose 43 per cent of their calories from carbs, and 30 per cent from protein.

Pooches, on the other hand, chose 43 per cent of their intake from fat, and 36 per cent from carbs. The younger the cats were, the more they veered towards protein. The researchers noted that this was because younger cats had a better ability to dispose of excess protein than older ones.

HELP FROM YOUR VET

DOG OWNERSHIP ASSOCIATED WITH A LONGER LIFE AMONG HEART

ATTACK AND STROKE SURVIVORS

Dog ownership is linked to a 33 per cent lower risk of early death for people who live alone and have experienced a heart attack, and a 27 per cent reduced chance of early death for those who have had a stroke. These findings, published by the American Heart Association in October 2019, are related to the fact that dog ownership can help alleviate social isolation, improve physical activity, and lower blood pressure. The study is particularly valuable because it was large-scale, being based on data obtained from 182,000 people who had experienced a heart attack and 155,000 people who had had a stroke. e

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z THE PROproperty

A NEW LEVEL OF BEACHFRONT LUXURY AT

IKKIL BAY

If you can imagine a frontline beach location in one of the prettiest bays on the Costa del Sol, an exclusive resort complex with beautiful communal areas and lush vegetation, where sun decks and an infinity pool look out over an expanse of sea, then you’re imagining Ikkil Bay. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF IKKIL BAY

A

top development begins with a top location. Indeed, a top location deserves residences worthy of it, and this thinking certainly applies to Ikkil Bay, a prestigious new boutique project of just nine superlative apartments and penthouses overlooking the charming cove of Playa del Cristo – one of

the prettiest little bays along the entire Costa del Sol. The view from here is also one of the most inspiring to behold, as it follows the curve of the shoreline to its meeting point with Gibraltar. The famous Rock stands in the distance as a sentinel of the seas, met by the

towering peaks of North Africa, as they jointly guard the ancient waters of the Straits. This is indeed a privileged location, and one of the last of its kind to be developed, which also means that it is one of the few top locations along the Costa del Sol with state-of-the-art new homes.

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BOUTIQUE RESIDENCES To design anything but the best for such a setting would be a shame indeed, so the designers of Ikkil Bay, Senda Projects, have gone all out to create something truly special here; a synthesis of the finest elements of contemporary design, amenities, luxuries and technology. The result is a select set of nine boutique properties that are technically apartments and penthouses, but offer the refinement of a modern villa.

Ikkil Bay, however, is a development that will impress long before you even enter one of the homes at its heart, for it captivates the minute you enter the domain of gardens and communal areas. These include a series of lobbies, lounges and meeting areas that exude the exclusivity and style of a five-star deluxe hotel – complete with a full set of concierge services available to the residents of what is in effect a bijou resort development.

Imagine timeless architectural styling and materials, cascading water, and light that captures the beauty of the surroundings and views, as the latter guide you to the panoramic sun deck and infinity swimming pool, which appears to merge with the horizon where sea and sky separate. The complex enjoys a prime

beachfront location that combines spectacular vistas with a high degree of privacy, overlooking a sandy beach and cove below.

SUPERLATIVE STANDARDS The development also features a stylish spa with sauna, gymnasium and heated indoor swimming pool, all sharing inspiring views. The nine properties each exude a sense of individual layout and specifications varying from two and three-bedroom apartments to expansive threebedroom penthouses distributed over two levels.

Naturally, in a setting such as this, the terraces are an important feature, and not surprisingly they are spacious, ranging from 50m2 to 350m2 in size. It goes without saying that their positioning makes the most of awe-inspiring views, of which the sun setting behind the Rock of Gibraltar is a particularly spectacular feature.

The smallest apartments have an openplan layout and space of 120m2, with as much outdoor living space again, bringing the entire area to 240m2, while the largest two-floor penthouses boast 200m2 of indoor living space to bring the total to 550m2. These are superlative properties built to exacting standards, and they feature a new level of comfort and style, including terraces that take the lifestyle element

to its ultimate expression, with seating areas, fire pits and swimming pools. The penthouses offer panoramic terraces on two levels, complete with water features, Jacuzzi, lounge and bar areas, relaxing beds surrounded by cooling water, firepits and modern lighting details that enhance the ambience as you watch the setting sun turn the skies a golden orange, or enjoy the lights that sparkle in the evenings.

The impressive quality, style and exclusivity that greet you as you enter Ikkil Bay continue into the home, where you can let the sliding doors glide open and dine or lounge to the sound of your own cascading fountain. The fittings and qualities are, of course, of the highest standard, featuring top-of-the-range appliances in a series of contemporary kitchen designs. The same is true of the luxurious bathrooms as well as every other detail, from lighting and home installation to climate control, wiring, plumbing and electrics.

Ikkil Bay has done its premium location proud by offering a superlative standard of build quality, design, detailing and amenities.

These elements come together to produce a unique offering of exclusivity and refinement in a beautiful spot close to the charming centre of Estepona, some 20 minutes from Marbella and Sotogrande.

Digital rendering of the Ikkil Bay building

g Avda. del Carmen Nº 47, Estepona.

Tel: (+34) 634 303 968. info@ikkilbay.com www.ikkilbay.com

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z z THE PRO enterprise

enterprise

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

SKY PRINCESS VISITS MÁLAGA The dreamlike Sky Princess cruise ship (by Princess Cruises) recently set sail from Barcelona and stopped in Málaga en route to Lisbon, offering a lucky few the chance to enjoy a magnificent lunch onboard. The ship is brand new and the fourth Royal-class ship in the Princess fleet. It entices travellers with a stunning outdoor pool, world-class dining (with over 25 food and drink venues), spa, theatre, and an iconic glass seawalk. i www.princess.com

BESPOKE SOUND & VISION EXPANDS TO MARBELLA Bespoke Sound & Vision recently announced its expansion from its UK operations to Marbella.

The company is well known for high-end sound and vision equipment comprising the most recent cutting-edge technology. From the latest home cinema equipment, sound and lighting systems to home security at just the touch of a button on your mobile phone, everything is at one’s fingertips. All requirements in home, business, or yacht sound and vision can be met by a highly professional team which works on everything from design to installation. Featuring fully integrated sound systems for indoors and outdoors, with music available in every room from your iTunes library. i www.bespoke-sav.es

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enterprise THE PRO z

VILLA ALCUZCUZ WINS BEST ARCHITECTURE SINGLE RESIDENCE EUROPE AWARD A big win for architecture and design on the Costa del Sol, with the BRIGHT development company taking not only Best in Spain but also Best in Europe in the category Architecture Single Residence in the recent finals of the International Property Awards held at The Savoy in London. Their entry, Villa Alcuzcuz, located in the hills above San Pedro, is the Coast’s first luxury environmentally-friendly home built to Passive House Regulations and Standards, guaranteeing a more than 75 per cent saving on energy costs compared to a standard new build. The UDesign Architecture Studio is the creative force behind the Bright brand. “We’re very excited about this win, because it’s a win for the entire architecture and design sector in Southern Spain,” says Jason Harris, CEO of UDesign, who, along with Michael Rodziewicz, CEO of BRIGHT, set up the company with the express aim of creating exceptional spaces that improve quality of life through pure design. i www.by-bright.com / www.udesign.es

ESSENTIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY As we go into another year, so we also look back with fond memories on 2019, the year when Magazine turned 20.

The crowning glory of this was a fantastic celebration at exemplary new restaurant Döss in Marbella’s Artola Alta. On a balmy evening towards the end of May, almost 500 guests assembled for what was later described as one of the highlight parties of the year, enjoying magnificent canapés and waiter service together with premier drinks, live music, and a DJ set. Once again, our thanks go out to everyone who has ever been involved with and to all of our many and loyal supporters. i www.essentialmagazine.com

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z THE PRO enterprise

TORNEO ASISA AT EL HIGUERÓN

ESSENTIAL FOR HEALTH – READER'S DISCOUNT

The last padel tournament of the year – the ASISA tournament – recently took place at the Reserva del Higuerón Resort. The event featured male, female, and mixed categories, with winners, runners-up and consolation prize winners taking home padel racquets, sports bags, and rucksacks. A raffle draw also saw lucky attendees winning free spa visits, dinners, racquets, and sports equipment. i www.reservadelhigueronrsort.com

Executive Health Clinic located at Helicopteros Sanitarios in Marbella is pleased to offer all readers a 10 per cent discount during January and February on their screening programs and consultations. Head Physician and Heart Scientist, Dr. Henrik Reinhard, MD, DMSc states, “Prevention will always be better than cure. At Executive Health, we carry out a complete set of diagnostics, screening for the onset of any serious illness using state-ofthe-art equipment. This new year, find out if you have a clean bill of health by contacting us for an appointment.” g Tel / WhatsApp: 670 674 246 / 603 840

984. info@executivehealth.es / www.executivehealth.es

REM AWARDS CEREMONY PUERTO BANÚS CHRISTMAS MARKET The second edition of the Puerto Banús Christmas Market continues until January 5, so if you are still looking for something for Three Kings’ Day, make your way to this fun fair. The market features a wide array of products – everything from arts and crafts to food and Christmas plants, as well as a Christmas Village for Kids. The Christmas Market was presented to the press by the Mayor of Marbella, Mª Ángeles Muñoz Uriol, and the CEO of Puerto Banús, Juan Nuñez Insausti. i www.puerto-banus.com

RALLY DAKAR PRESENTATION AT THE HOTEL GVADALPÍN BANÚS The Hotel Gvadalpín Banús recently hosted the presentation of the team Guadalpín Banús/Bosuer Racing, which will be taking part in Rally Dakar 2020. This event, known to be one of the toughest in the world, will be disputed for the first time in Saudi Arabia, with Fernando Alonso heading a list of celebrities who will take off from Jeddah on January 5 and arrive in Qiddiya on January 17, after covering a gruelling 7,900 kilometres. i www.granhotelguadalpin.com

The Fourth REM (Red de Emprendedoras Marbella) Gala honoured the most influential women of Marbella, at a well-attended event at Guadalmina Golf Club. REM was born thanks to the initiative of several female entrepreneurs in the area deciding to join forces. At the gala, five women were presented with awards in different fields. A special award was given to Yolanda Sáenz de Tejada for her impressive achievements throughout her career. Gala attendees included Town Hall members, Félix Romero, Deputy Mayor and Isabel Cintado, Equality and Diversity Councillor. The award ceremony was hosted by businesswoman Marie-Noëlle Erize. i www.redemprendedorasmarbella.com

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enterprise THE PRO z

GIBRALTAR MAKES AN APPEARANCE AT THE MARRAKECH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

ALOHA COLLEGE CHRISTMAS BAZAAR The annual Aloha Christmas Bazaar was a resounding success, with over €26.000 raised for the school. Parents set up stalls with food from all over the world. The winning stall was the Scandinavian one, which raised €3.361, just beating the Russian stall which sold €2.895 worth.

In third place was the Spanish stall, with sales of €2.000. The school extends a special ‘thank you’ to parents, dancers, children, sponsors, and of course, to Father Christmas! i www.aloha-college.com

Gibraltar was represented at the world-renowned Marrakech International Film Festival with the movie In Your Eyes I See My Country – partly filmed on the rock during the Gibraltar World Music Festival in 2015 by the award-winning filmmaker Kamal Hachkar. A French director of Moroccan descent, Kamal started the documentary in Gibraltar and brought over a group of Israeli musicians with Moroccan heritage (including Néta Elkayam and Amit Hai Cohen), crossing the Strait by boat after performing at the GWMF to rediscover their roots. The Marrakech International Film Festival was established in 2001 by King Mohammed VI to promote the arts and the film industry in Morocco. i www.festivalmarrakech.info

THE INSTITUTO ANDALUZ DE LA MUJER HONOURS MARIE-NOËLLE ERIZE BARNES OPENS IN MARBELLA BARNES, a leading fully integrated international company in high-end residential real estate, is now opening on Marbella’s Golden Mile. Their team combines the selection of exclusive luxury properties with expertise in the sale and acquisition of luxury boats with BARNES Yachts, consultancy services for the merger and acquisition of vineyards with BARNES Vineyards Investment, and the management of all aspects of one's Art collection with BARNES Art Advisory. BARNES is able to offer its demanding clientèle a global and increasingly mobile service that goes beyond a simple house hunt to include personalised support and legal and tax consultancy at their preferred destination. i www.barnes-international.com

The Instituto Andaluz de la Mujer recently proclaimed Marie-Noëlle Erize a leading businesswoman in Málaga at the Farola Awards, in recognition of her 40-year career. The event brought together outstanding women in the categories of Business, Sport, Culture, Hospitality, Science, Education, Media, Social Justice and Equality. The awards recognised the career paths of female professionals in Málaga who, with their dedication and effort, develop important projects and initiatives worthy of appraisal. i www.mncomunicacion.com

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z THE PRObusiness

THE WORLD’S SMALLEST EBIKE KIT

BY SWYTCH TECHNOLOGY WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SWYTCH TECHNOLOGY

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ravel has become more sustainable in the past few years, with everything from fuel-efficient aeroplanes to modernised railways and electric cars enabling each and every individual to lower their carbon footprint. In this new age of sustainability, eBikes (which enable cyclists to count on an extra ‘push’ when they are negotiating uphills or they simply want to give pedalling a rest) are doing plenty to make sustainable commuting more appealing. Recently, London tech startup, Swytch Technology, launched what promises to be a big seller in 2020: the world’s smallest eBike conversion kit, smashing its predicted launch sales by 1,000 per cent. The forward thinking team raised $250,000 in just 24 hours and achieved sales of over $1M just 30 days post launch!

WHAT IS THE SWYTCH KIT? This tiny kit transforms any bicycle

into a premium quality eBike. It consists of a lightweight hub motor wheel that replaces your bike’s front wheel, and a hand-sized power pack that fits to the handlebars and adds just 1.5kg of weight to the bike. The kit can quickly be removed, allowing the user to ‘swytch’ back to normal mode. It provides 250W of powerassist for up to 50km, boasting a top speed of 25 km/h. There are two tiers of production specifications (Eco and Pro) for the kit’s Power Pack. The PRO uses higher capacity cells which increase the bike’s total range from 35km to 50km with no additional gains in total weight.

UNIVERSALLY COMPATIBLE The Swytch Kit can be adapted to almost any type of bicycle. The only common exception are Bromptons, Dahons and other small folding bikes with narrow forks that require a specialised Brompton kit featuring a narrow motor. The Swytch Brompton kit is a handy conversion

kit worldwide that is compatible with Bromptons and other bikes with narrow forks. This specially designed compact motor increases the price of the kit.

WHAT IS SWYTCH TECHNOLOGY ALL ABOUT? The makers of this eBike kit are visionaries who have one overriding goal: to make transport more sustainable and accessible. Just think of how much raw material and waste can be achieved by simply converting your existing bike into an eBike, instead of having to buy an entirely new machine.

The team estimates that the carbon footprint of manufacturing a brand new eBike stands at about 300kg CO2e, compared to just 40kg CO2e required to make a Swytch kit. Oliver Montague, CEO of Swytch Technology said, "We are passionate about developing sustainable transport solutions that are fun to use. What is really

interesting is that eBike technology is appealing to people of all ages and cycling abilities. We have seen older people purchasing the kit to help them reconnect with a sport they no longer thought they could enjoy and the kit is extremely popular with commuters and your average bike fanatics. Technology like ours is disrupting the electric transport industry; people are loving the freedom of choice they have in what transport methods they want to use.”

Montague predicts that 99 per cent of the world’s one billion bicycles could be converted with Swytch. He adds, “Converting existing bikes is not only better for your piggy bank, but for the environment too.”

WHEN CAN YOU BUY ONE? Say tuned to the company’s website for information on its release, which is slated for April, 2020. Prices will start at around €760. i www.swytchbike.com

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Meet the Sales Team behind the Scandinavian Magazines

Henrik Andersen T: 670 63 57 86

Mugge Fischer T: 650 32 40 12

Louise Mercedes T: 952 58 15 53

Sara Laine T: 600 83 83 99

Contact one of us and we will explain the most cost effective gateway to the Scandinavian market

With us you reach 75.000 Scandinavians in Southern Spain with a monthly circulation of 31.000 copies. At Norrbom Marketing we are always doing our utmost to give you and the readers the best experience. Today, just like we did 30 years ago, when the first magazine was published.

LA DANESA - EN SUECO - DET NORSKE MAGASINET Your direct access to the scandinavian market.

Contact us for advertising in our magazines, on our websites or in our newsletters – with a new Scandinavian clientele as a result.

Essentials annonce sĂŚlgere sept 2019.indd 1

CENTRO IDEA Ctra. de Mijas Km. 3,6 29650 Mijas Tel. (+34) 952 58 15 53 norrbom@norrbom.com www.norrbom.com 19/08/2019 12:46

b the gourmet RESTAURANTS REVIEWS NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

125 126 128 130 132

Asador Origen Gourmet Bytes Dabiz Muñoz of DiverXO and StreetXO Quinta Sardonia Wine The Golden Triangle of Sherry

THE COLD WEATHER WHETS THE APPETITE AND WHAT BETTER PLACE TO INDULGE THAN AT AUTHENTIC ARGENTINE GRILL, ASADOR ORIGEN? WE ALSO REPORT ON THE LATEST HAPPENINGS ON THE FOOD SCENE, PRESENT WHIZ CHEF DABIZ MUÑOZ, AND VISIT THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE OF SHERRY – ALL WHILE SIPPING ON WINE FROM QUINTA SARDONIA!

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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

Reservations: 952 818 392

N E W TA I PA N

C H I N E S E R E S TA U R A N T A N D P O LY N E S I A N B A R Puente Romano, Fase 2, Marbella.

Open Daily for Dinner from 8:00 www.taipanmarbella.com

Tel: 952 777 893 / 952 775 500

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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Puente Romano Marbella noburestaurants.com ¡ Tel (+34) 952 778 686 Omakase menu offered from Sunday to Thursday at EUR 45 p/person

restaurants THE GOURMET b

FANNING THE FLAMES OF GOOD TASTE AT

W

ORIGEN

hen the last vestige of the summer season comes to a close, I always find my mind and heart wandering to what friends know is one of my favourite restaurants in Marbella – Origen, founded by the group that also owns trendy tapas grill venue, Hacienda Patagónica. If you have read our previous reports on Origen, then you know that the big secret of its success is three-fold: quality, technique, and ambience. This is one of the few places on the Coast that you can order a rib-eye cooked Maillard style, your steak delicately ‘caramelised’ on the flaming grill. At Origen, a variety of woods are used to heat meat up to just the right level in which smokiness, a gorgeous golden exterior, and a juicy, flavourful interior, are married to perfection.

Origen is a veritable classic when it comes to enjoying a great steak in the centre of town. Dressed in wood, red brick, and an open kitchen where you can see the staff at work, it is no less than a treat for meat lovers. Trendy yet casual, exquisite in quality yet laidback in spirit, it is the perfect spot for a business lunch, but is just as wonderful for couples wishing to be embraced in warmth while they enjoy a knockout meal.

On my most recent visit to Origen, the staff had me at ‘hello’, with starters that hark back to Argentinean family tradition. From sinfully creamy provolone cheese delights to grilled octopus, Criolle chorizo and picquant empanadas, a wide range of temptations elicited sounds of joy at our table, and we downed these delights with a glass of Malbec

while working out whether we were in the mood for a ribeye or tenderloin steak. In the end, the ribeye won; not surprising considering this lovely cut is packed with the strong flavour and a relatively high fat quotient that makes it so tender. We also shared a dish that is a must at Origen: the mustard honey chicken, grilled to sheer perfection in the Josper and bearing a slightly sweet taste which complements the delicious smokiness to perfection.

Only the very best meat makes it way to Origen, which, as you can expect, is owned by an Argentinean family. Produce hails from Patagonia and Uruguay, where the low temperatures and frequent rain provide ideal conditions for breeds such as Hereford, Black Angus, and Braford – all originally brought to Patagonia by British breeders in the 18th century.

Not only did the availability of the finest cuts of meat make for a unique culinary tradition, but also the wide array of cooking styles that vary along the length of Argentina. In the south, for instance, cooking over an open wood fire in the campo lent meat a particular flavour and texture that was very different from meat dishes savoured elsewhere in the country.

At Origen, technique is honed to perfection. The owners are heavily involved in everything from the kitchen to customer service, and they have the vision to incorporate crucial pieces of equipment – including a fabulous Josper grill that heats meat to 450-500ºC, lending steak its characteristic goldenbrown appearance. Prep work is also big here, with staff spending hours in the lead-up to nightly openings, ensuring cuts, vegetables, adornments,

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

adobos and other marinades are freshly prepared and ready for the arrival of diners.

Visit a grill in Argentina and expect the meat to arrive plain, with no décor. Origen adds a bit of magic that takes plenty of prep work. For instance, steak is served with adornments like potato purée, fried pumpkin, and tomato that is dried then immersed in a garlic-infused olive oil. Caramelised onion, delicate mesclun leaves, and two delicate ‘stripes’ made with a red wine reduction add the final touch to a dish in which meat still takes the starring role in terms of volume and positioning.

Here, everything is made by hand – from the sauces right through to the wonderful ice-cream, that comes in a range of flavours – including, of course, dulce de leche. We ordered a couple of scoops as well as another classic at Origen – the dulce de leche crepes, fine and delicate and oh-sosinful inside.

Origen is a classic choice for diners after a hearty, soul-soothing meal with excellent wine. Indeed, the restaurant majorly renovated its wine list, raising the number of bottles from 30 to over 100. Excellent options from all over the world can be found, so ask for a suggestion or have your food paired by the friendly staff. Rodo, who is nearly always around, is one of the discreet yet super amiable professionals who are committed, heart and soul, to ensuring that a meal at Origen always feels like coming home. g C/ Gregorio Marañón s/n, Esquina Camilo José Cela, Marbella. Tel: 951 352 164. www.origenasador.com

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b THE GOURMET news COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BERONIA WINERY RECOGNISED FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Beronia winery in Rioja is a unique new building that was designed with eco-friendly principles in mind. It is the first in Europe to achieve the LEED (Leader in Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Design) pre-certification – the internationally recognised sustainable accreditation granted by the US Green Building Council which distinguishes buildings whose design and construction are sustainable and environmentally friendly. The building relies on a geothermal structural thermal activation system, which takes advantage of the natural temperature inside the earth to heat its facilities and heat or cool water depending on the time of year, thus reducing energy consumption. i www.beronia.com

CÁRITAS MARBELLA FUNDRAISING BAZAAR

FEATURING CARLOS NAVARRO

Carlos Navarro – the whiz Chef behind Döss’ incredible Japanese menu, took part in Cáritas Marbella’s 15th annual Christmas Bazaar at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Marbella. Carlos and the pupils at his Japanese cooking school set themselves a challenge: preparing a 15-metre maki sushi roll! All monies went to a very worthy cause. i www.chefcarlosnavarro.com

GRUPO LATERAL OPENS IN MARBELLA

Grupo Lateral – a prestigious restaurant chain present in various Spanish cities, has just opened its first restaurant in Marbella in the heart of the Old Town: Plaza de los Naranjos! The restaurant, which required an investment of approximately €850.000 stands out for its artistic design and its varied selection of pinchos and raciones. The interiors were created by Alicia Martín and Alba Hurlé, who blended elements of modern design with neo Andalusian and colonial styles. Lateral Marbella opens on Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 1am, on Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2am, on Saturday from 12pm to 2am and on Sunday from 12pm to 1am. g Plaza de los Naranjos 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 163 894. www.lateral.com

FIFTH WINERY ENCOUNTER AT

VOVEM ASADOR

Vovem Asador recently hosted the fifth Winery Encounter (V Encuentro con Bodegas), featuring wines by Bodegas Lara and Gramona Corpinnat. The event included lunch, prepared by talented Executive Chef Enzo Díaz. Dishes were paired with wine and all who attended agreed it was an unforgettable experience. i www.vovemasador.com

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C/ Maribel, 8, Sierra Nevada 18196 Granada | +34 958 480 600 | reservas@ellodge.com | ellodge.com

b THE GOURMET chef’s profile

WHY DABIZ MUÑOZ

SHOULD NEVER GROW UP

Dabiz Muñoz is one of the most oft-filmed chefs on the current culinary scene, famed as much for his undeniable culinary skills as for his rebellious, edgy appearance. The creator of DiverXO in Madrid (with three Michelin stars to its name) has gone where few have gone before him, opening the now-famous StreetXO London in Mayfair – which initially went seriously over budget prior to launch and which teetered in terms of acceptance in its early days. PHOTOGRAPHY CITY FOODSTERS

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oday, of course, StreetXO is one of the coolest spots for trendy Londoners. Its dramatic interiors are seemingly inspired on the colourful and mysterious industry that is the circus. Neon light features are married to a sexy Japanese food bar, pressed against the open kitchen. In the middle of the restaurant, ‘standing bars’ are complemented by a few small tables at which diners wishing a little more privacy can enjoy conversation. This isn’t the place to go if you are seeking romance and intimacy, though.

Vibrant, happening, urban vibes are what it is all about – after all, the ambience is but an extension of the Chef himself.

Dabiz commenced his career under the tutelage of renowned chefs in Hakkasan, Nahm, and Nobu. They would spark his love for Asian cuisine – to such a point that his creations are usually classified as ‘fusion’, with a strong Asian influence. After honing his craft for five years in London, Dabiz opened his first restaurant,

DiverXO, followed by StreetXO. The London branch was launched in 2016.

Like many great chefs of the world, Dabiz’s quest is one for perfection. He acknowledges that at the commencement of his career, his aim was to shock. This was evident as much in his food as with his image, which he carefully crafted.

One of his most famous photo shoots sees him dressed in A Clockwork Orange garb and he sports his characteristic mohawk (a style he embraced when he was just 16 years old). In his early days, he often tells the press, he had a dish called Paris de los 70, which was presented to diners behind opening curtains, as though the dish were a show itself. Today, he says, he is far less concerned with the spectacle of cooking and far more interested in showing off his authentic skill as a chef.

Muñoz is relentless and he describes his typical day as waking up early, moving from one restaurant to another and of course, dreaming up (and experimenting with) new ways to delight his customers. He suffers from extreme perfectionism and openly

admits that his wife – presenter Cristina Pedroche – often reminds him that he has everything in life he needs to be happy. Yet for the true visionary, trying to outdo yourself is a process that never stops. Dabiz admits that at one point, the anxiety of having to be successful spurred on anxiety.

“I used to relieve it by eating and I eventually weighed 95 kilos. I didn’t know how to manage the pressure of success. I woke up one day and everyone was talking about me, it was a molotov cocktail,” he told El Mundo, adding, “I felt that everything I was doing was awful. They gave me one Michelin star… two… three… one prize after another but I always felt I didn’t deserve it. I was incapable of understanding that what I was doing was actually very good.”

The Chef says that he knows and accepts that it is part of his nature to remain eternally unsatisfied and the most he can do is try. Today, he is able to judge his creations with greater self-compassion. Being married to the love of his life helps. Dabiz tells the press that ultimately, Cristina is ‘number one’ in his life; the constant, unconditional presence that he does not have to work to deserve. He often speaks of their mutual love for travel and food, of his luck at having found someone who shares these two main passions.

She also, one suspects, encourages him to do more than cook. Recently, she attended the emotion-packed finish by Muñoz of the Valencia Marathon. He broke down as he reached the finish line, to cries of “You’re a f***ing champion, husband!” For someone so hardworking and obsessed with his craft, sport, balance, and travel, are wonderful reminders indeed that everyone – even someone with this level of genius – is human. We are more than our abilities, our work, and inevitably – our failures and successes. e

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b THE GOURMETwine

QUINTA SARDONIA

AN ENLIGHTENED EXERCISE IN BIODYNAMIC WINE Brainchild of Jérome Bougnaud – a down to earth pioneer despite his status as long-time former vineyard manager of nearby mythical and rather exclusive Pingus – this immaculate, panoramic 17-hectare southfacing vineyard plus six north facing is adjacent to the spare and minimalistic village of Sardón del Duero.

WORDS JOHN CARLOS READ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF QUINTA SARDONIA

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f serious French vigneron pedigree, Jérome wanted his own personal project and so, at the tail end of the 1990s, he roped Peter Sisseck and eight like-minded devotees into chipping in to the major financing of his very own estate on the famous Golden Mile. When sounded out in the early 1980s as to whether he’d like his community included in the Appellation that would come into force in 1982, the local mayor simply said no.

Here, therefore, on a fantastically varied yet ultimately quite poor soil mix of 11 different types (including chalk, limestone, marl, clay, loam and gypsum) at lofty and well-ventilated heights of between 750 and 820 metres, there is primarily Tinto Fino/local Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon with a smidgeon of Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc to mention just a few – with the liberty of variety variation afforded by not being in the DO. Individual plots are harvested separately and the vines, fertilised with the property’s own compost, are picked not by variety but by soil type to be co-fermented most exactingly in some 15 to 20 lots.

Jérome was also a bit special in taking the decision from Day One that his wines would be biodynamic – a misunderstood platform that often results in majorly unpredictable offerings (see Box) and whose ultimate objective is purity and balance. While1999 through 2000 saw the first plantings, 2003 was the first release of top cuvée QS which has been garnering a serious audience and major critical acclaim ever since. By 2010 it was clear that Jérome, not just with no sales staff and a single admin assistant – the charming María Enciso – had taken on quite a handful and so with pressing family interests to look after back in his native Cognac, he sold the estate to the familyowned Terras Gauda group in November 2010.

In order to assure the continuity of his splendid project he nonetheless stayed on till 2016 and, although 2014 was his last vintage, he had in September 2010 secured the services of another very talented winemaker – Christian (Xose Rei Oubiña) – and remained as a hands-on consultant during the 2015 and 2016 vintages, his dream essentially in more than safe hands.

The transition has therefore been seamless, for as relaxed and laid back as he may appear to

be, Christian is a consummate professional. I last saw him in late September for fifteen minutes in Sardón village for a coffee during which time, with the harvest in full swing, we talked. He made and smoked a roll-up while at the same time calmly fielding a call roughly every 45 seconds with questions from his harvesting team.

Born in Cambados, the capital of the Rías Baixas heartland (the Salnés Valley), he moved to Burgos in 2002 to try his hand at reds and when he eventually met up with Jérome, they clicked, as Christian is also “a passionate advocate of biodynamic agriculture.” His philosophy is that “the soil is the key part of winemaking and terroir, influenced by rain, heat, cold, sun, and the moon.”

He continues: “In the same way that a musician never renders the same piece of music in exactly the same way, the biodynamic producer interprets, observes and learns from nature, and comes to understand her rhythms to try and achieve balance year upon year. Yet each interpretation is always slightly different for though the score may appear to be the same, both we and the space that we inhabit are in a state of flux and ever-changing, developing and mutating in our respective ways.”

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SARDÓN 2017 (14.5%)

95% Tinto Fino, 2% Garnacha, and 3% Albillo, Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Short vatting time, minimal extraction, with the various components subsequently aged in a combo of third-year barrels, 1,200 litre foudres, concrete eggs and steel deposits for 6 months followed by 6 additional months in concrete tanks to bring out its fresh, fruit-driven side.

From one of the driest vintages ever, this is most aromatic, medium bodied and has a rich, concentrated blackberry, raspberry and cherry character together with elements of chocolate. Soft tannins however, it´s agreeably fresh, minerally, and upbeat.

Production 105,000 bottles.

QUINTA SARDONIA

Top cuvée QS is another proposition entirely, described on the one hand by excellent wine writer Margaret Rand as “the concentrated, sleek essence of a particular spot on our planet”; and conceptually by Jérome Bougnaud in his alluringly down to earth fashion as ‘usually between 35 and 75% Tinto Fino/ Tempranillo – ‘good mouth´ – 10 to 30% Cabernet Sauvignon - ´the spine’; with the other varieties providing ´the nose and seasoning’.

QUINTA SARDONIA 2015 (15%)

60% Tinto Fino, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and 2% Malbec.

Made from the estate’s finest bunches derived primarily from calcareous soils but with a small proportion from gypsum. Aged for 20 months, 30% went into new French oak barrels and the rest into ones previously used for one vintage.

Ripe, rounded and of medium intensity with a plethora of discreet, condensed primary fruits – typically red cherries – wrapped up in fine, pervasive, custard scented oak and with a twist of liquorice.

Great texture, fresh, with no uncertain minerality, plump friendly tannins and an outstanding finish.

Production 24,200 bottles.

QUINTA SARDONIA 2014 (15%)

BIODYNAMIC WINES In essence these form part of an alternative integrated agriculture now practiced in some 55 countries that utilise organic farming methods (ie. neither chemical treatments nor pesticides) and naturally formulated compost – often supplemented with herbal and mineral additives – as fertiliser and for field sprays. This system developed from the early 1920s ideas of Rudolf Steiner. They also follow an astrological sowing and planting calendar that depends upon astronomical configurations and treats the earth as a living and receptive organism.

Within this, soil fertility, plant growth and livestock care are ecologically interrelated tasks in a single system, labelled by enthusiasts as sympathetic magic given that in many ways this philosophy harks back to ancient mystical practices and rites, but by detractors as pseudoscience given on the one hand its overreliance on esoteric knowledge and mystical beliefs and on the other sparse scientific evidence for its efficacy.

One important convention is, for example, to bury ground-up quartz stuffed into a cow’s horn at a certain time each year in order to glean the cosmic forces in the soil. e

60% Tinto Fino, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and 2% Malbec.

Made as above, using as ever native yeasts and with malolactic fermentation in barrel, just 16% went into new French oak.

In accordance with the nature of the vintage, though following a similar profile to the 2015, this is rather finer and more nuanced with notes of dense plum and its customary red cherry hallmarks topped off by an immense finish.

Production 24,900 bottles.

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b THE GOURMET sherry

Golden sherry. Bodega Fundador.

A SLIGHTLY TIPSY, BUT EVER SO TASTY VISIT TO THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE OF

SHERRY MAKING When I was young, a glass of sherry was something my great aunts and other old ladies sipped from etched crystal glasses, accompanied by sweet biscuits and muted gossip. The names on the bottles were Bristol Cream and Dry Sac, which sounded much more English than Andalusian. Most of the old ladies have long since passed away and I have not had much exposure to sherry since. But that was before we moved to Spain and went on a tour of one of the country’s oldest and most venerable sherry bodegas. WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY KARETHE LINAAE

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THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

AN HISTORIC CHEER

A sherry is a fortified wine usually made from the green grapes of the Palomino, Muscatel or Pedro Ximénez variety. To be legally classified as such, the sherry needs to originate from Andalucía’s so called sherry triangle formed by the three towns with the long and intricate names of Jerez de la Frontera, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. Only this area with its chalky white soil presents the right growing conditions for this special wine, which achieved Spain’s first Protected Designation of Origin status in 1933.

The name sherry is an anglicised version of Xeres or Jerez. There are a rich variety of sherry wines to satisfy any taste and accompany almost any dish. On the lighter side, there is the dry, straw-coloured Manzanilla and Fino that locals enjoy as an aperitivo. Moving on, there are the darker and slightly heavier versions with musical names like Amontillado and Oloroso, and finally we end up with the sweet dessert wines called Pedro Ximénez, from a grape of the same name.

My husband’s wood carving group usually makes an annual excursion, and this time the trip was to the hometown of one of the amateur carvers, Jerez de la Frontera. He had organised a special visit to Bodega Fundador, which we were told was Jerez’ oldest winery.

The Spanish word Bodega can refer to several different things – a wine cellar, wine bar, wine warehouse, or a wine dealer, in addition to a vineyard. The company founder was Irish Patrick Murphy, who began producing what we now know as sherry in a converted olive mill in the historic centre of Jerez in 1730. The same building is still in use today.

In the 1840’s, the company began distilling their famous brandy. Today it is not only universally known, but one of the word’s biggest brandy producers with over 30 million cases sold in 2017.

Initially owned and run by the famous Anglo-Spanish semi-aristocratic family of Domecq, the present owner is the Tan family from the Philippines. This adds to the global nature of the brand, since

former owners have also been English, Americans and Chinese.

The international connection is nothing new. Wine has been produced in Jerez since the times the Romans ruled these lands some 2,000 years ago. Later, during the seven centuries that the Arabs controlled the Iberian continent, the Moors who were not able to drink alcohol for religious reasons, produced the wine for medicinal and antiseptic use. After the Spanish expulsion of the Moors in the late 13th Century, the wine spirit was again made for human consumption. The production was actually so considerable that it was subject to a Wine Spirit Tax by the 16th Century.

While the Netherlands imported most of the early Spanish brandy, the English favoured the softer cousin, the sherry.

When Sir Francis Drake plundered the port of Cádiz in 1587, part of his loot was three thousand casks of sherry, or so the saying goes... While the English might not initially have come by their favourite dessert wine through legal means, it began a gustatory love affair that has lasted to this day.

Sherry barrels, Jerez de la Frontera

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Antique bottling machine, Bodega Fundador

Selection of Sherries from the Golden Triangle

AN OLFACTORY TOUR

Old sherry bottles, Bodega Fundador.

Our sherries are very spoilt, said Lourdes, our friendly guide before taking us into El Molino, Fundador’s first and oldest bodega. It may seem odd to describe a wine as ‘mimado’ or spoilt, but after learning about the long and labour intensive journey from grape to bottle, I would tend to agree.

What immediately hits you when entering the centuries-old bodega is the smell, or should I say the attack on the olfactory senses. The scent is a mixture of rich wood, some type of sweet nectar, spilled wine turned into vinegar, old cellar mould and wet stone. The temperature of the cavernous bodega is kept constant in the cool mid teens, 18 degrees Celsius and 70% humidity being the ideal. This is achieved naturally through the building’s construction and orientation.

Windows at the far end of the halls facing towards the coast offer ventilation, admitting

the cool sea breeze in the evenings and early mornings, while traditional woven straw blinds keep the hot midday sun out. Bodegas were normally built large and lofty with meterthick white walls for thermal properties. The tiled roofs would breathe and the floors that were covered with sand could be watered down to keep up the humidity.

SHERRY NURSERY The El Molino bodega itself is an endless warehouse of hall after hall of old wooden barrels, stacked on top of each other, three layers high. The bottom layer from which the final product is extracted is called solera (or on the ground). The layers of barrels cradled above these are called criadera (or nursery) number 1 and number 2. New wine is introduced into nursery 1, and gradually, usually annually, moved down to the older

Sherry barrels signed by Spanish celebrities, Bodega Fundador

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Tio Pepe, one of Jerez’ famous bodegas

nursery and finally to the solera where the oldest, most mature wine is stored.

Only after the fermentation is completed is the base wine fortified with grape spirit to reach the sherry’s desired alcohol content.

No cask is ever drained and no more than one third of the barrel’s content is removed, allowing for the different generations of grapes to blend. This type of ageing (also used for port and balsamic vinegar) is called fractional blending, a system that Fundador was the first sherry bodega to implement. The blending assures that every bottle produced will have a mixture of ages of wine, which increases gradually as the process continues over the years. Some soleras therefore can date back hundreds of years.

The barrels that Fundador uses are made of American oak. All casks are

impregnated with wine before use, since new barrels would give too strong a wooden taste for this type of product. The old sherry barrels are widely sought after by whisky makers, so some sherry producers sell off the used barrels to Scotland. Fundador however, hangs on to every old barrel, rather mending them and using them year after year. Nothing is wasted here, says Lourdes, explaining that if a barrel of sherry goes acerbic, it will be made into Pedro Ximénez vinegar.

Prior to tasting the product, we were lead through Fundador’s collection of old bottles, bottling machines, distillery contraptions and an impressive collection of vintage sherries and brandies. Here, we got to smell the process through which their spirited wine passes to produce the different types of sherry.

g About the writer: Karethe Linaae is a Norwegian writer living in Ronda, Andalucía.

Her first book, Casita 26 – Searching for a Slice of Andalusian Paradise was published in 2019 (Mascot Books, USA). For more information, please go to snobb.net

FOR EVERY PALATE: DRY, FRUITY, CREAMY OR SINFULLY SWEET Because the fortification takes place after the fermentation, a sherry is initially dry with any sweetness added later. Fino and Manzanilla are fortified until they reach an alcohol content of 15.5 per cent by volume. As they age, they develop a layer of yeast-like growth that helps protect the wine from excessive oxidation and in keeping its light colour. This dry aperitif wine, with a slight aroma of almonds, is perfect served on ice with or without a nibble of Payoyo goat cheese.

The Oloroso sherry is allowed to oxidise in the barrel until it reaches an alcohol content of at least 17 per cent. It is rich amber in colour, has a slight hazelnut aroma and goes splendidly with Iberian ham.

The Amontillado sherry is somewhere between a Fino and an Oloroso. The exportation favourite Cream Sherry is an Oloroso into which the naturally sweet Pedro Ximénez wine is added.

Finally, the Fundador brandy is made by ageing wine spirits in former sherry casks. Like we were told, nothing is wasted.

Of course, no sherry tour is complete without a tasting, of which we did amply. Though our merry bunch seemed to try all versions of sherries and brandies, most had trouble deciding which was their favourite and ended up bringing a couple of bottles home for further investigation.

Needless to say, I am starting to realise that my great grand aunts were onto something. A glass of sherry, like a bit of history, is a most worthy cheer. e

Bodega Fundador anno 1730

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. . THE GUIDE listings

the guide

PRICE GUIDE per head for a three-course meal with wine

under €25

€25 – €40

*restaurants

Urb. Aloha Pueblo, Local 35, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 952 907 570

american

HACIENDA PATAGONICA

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

ORIGEN

JACKS

JACKS SMOKEHOUSE Open seven days a week from noon till late. Puerto Banús, Tel: 952 813 625

MR. GOURMET BURGER Open from 6pm ‘til late every evening.

Avda. Luis Braile 20, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 952 785 257

argentinean

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.

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ de la Acera de la Marina 2, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 968 Open daily for lunch and dinner. C/ Gregorio Marañón s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 968

belgian MYTILUS

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

LISTINGS STARS

€40 – €60

€60 plus

C/ Velázquez 1, Marbella. Tel: 630 441 834

french

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

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

MAISON LÚ

eco

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for lunch. Blvd. Alfonso von Hohenlohe 269, Marbella. Tel: 951 210 000

ALMAZEN

VALDERRAMA RESTAURANT

Open daily from 12pm to midnight. Ctra. De Ronda, km 45, C.C. Monte Halcones, Local 9-10, Benahavís.

Tel: 951 275 109

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner only and on Sunday for Buffet Lunch. Apartado 1, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 132.2 Sotogrande, Cádiz. Tel: 956 791 200

GIOIA Open daily from 1pm to 8pm except Mondays.

greek

RED PEPPER Open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Muelle Ribera, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 812 148

grills

ASADOR CRIOLLO GRILL Open nightly for dinner. CN340-A7, km. 166, Cancelada, El Saladillo. Tel: 952 784 463

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

EL CARNICERO Open daily for both lunch and dinner. Pueblo Viejo Cancelada. Between San Pedro & Estepona.

Tel: 952 886 307

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

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listings THE GUIDE .

EL GAUCHO Open daily for dinner from 7.30pm. Galerías Paniagua.

Sotogrande. Tel: 956 795 528

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

EL RANCHO DEL PUERTO Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Benabola 4, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 816 252

GOIKO GRILL Avda. Ricardo Soriano, 15, Marbella. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Tel: 951 829 935

GRILL DEL PUERTO Open for lunch and dinner every day. Muelle Ribera 47H, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 686

MARBELLA CLUB GRILL Open every night for dinner. Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd.

Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n, Marbella.

Tel: 952 822 211

OLD TOWN GRILL Open Monday to Saturday for dinner and Sunday for lunch. C/ San Lázaro, 3, Pza. Victoria, Marbella.

Tel: 952 867 306

RESTAURANTE RANCHO Open every day from 5pm till late. Ctra. Cádiz, exit Las Chapas. Tel: 952 831 922

T-BONE GRILL Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Gran Meliá Don Pepe, Avda. José Meliá s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 300

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

VOVEM Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Duque de Ahumada, Paseo Marítimo, Marbella. Tel: 952 008 822

indian CORIANDER

Open daily from 1pm to 11pm. Paseo Marítimo Rey de

España 4, Local 2-4, Fuengirola. Tel: 951 903 807

s/n, Benalmádena. Tel: 902 102 675

JAIPUR PALACE

BAHIA BEACH

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

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

JAIPUR PURPLE Open daily for dinner. CN 340, km. 166, Estepona.

Tel: 952 888 353

Open daily for lunch and dinner. El Paseo del Mar, Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona, CN340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

MASSALA

BARBQ ARTESANAL BURGERS

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

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

MUMTAZ

BOHO CLUB

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

Open nightly for dinner. Urb. Lomas de Río Verde 29, Marbella. Tel: 952 157 222

international

99 SUSHI BAR & RESTAURANT Open nightly for dinner. At Anantara Villa Padierna Palace. Urb. Los Flamingos Golf, CN340, km. 166, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

11&11 RESTOBAR

BALTAZAR BAR & GRILL

BREATHE Open from 12.30pm ‘til late, seven days a week. C/ Los Lirios s/n, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 036 494.

CAFÉ DE RONDA Open daily for breakfast and lunch until 7pm.

Avda. Ramón Gómez de la Serna 23, Marbella.

Tel: 952 862 149

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

CAFETERÍA KE

ACINIPO

Open daily for lunch and dinner. C.C. Laguna Village, local 24-25, Estepona. Tel: 951 217 871

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday. C.C. El Zoco, Sitio de Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 607 680 999

AL ROLO Open from 1pm to 4pm and 7pm to 11pm daily.

At Reserva del Higuerón. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Benalmádena. Tel: 952 661 174

ALBERTS Open daily for lunch and dinner. Puerto Cabopino.

Tel: 952 836 886

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

CAMURÍ CASANIS Open every day from 6pm except Sundays.

C/ Ancha, 8, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 450

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

CERRADO DEL ÁGUILA

BABOO LOUNGE AND RESTAURANT

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

Open every day for lunch and dinner, closing Sunday, Monday and Tuesday at 8pm. Ctra. Arroyo de la Miel,

Open Sunday to Thursday from 10am to 11pm and

CHARLIE’S CORNER

Friday from 10am to 4pm. Closed Saturdays. C/ Los Jazmines 409, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 275 384.

D.O.M Open nightly for dinner. At the Hotel Meliá Marbella Banús. C/ Mario Vargas Llosa s/n, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 912 764 747

DON LEONE Open every night for dinner. Puerto Banús, Marbella.

Tel: 952 811 716

DÖSS Open 11am to 2am. Artola Alta, Marbella.

Tel: 952 000 772.

D-WINE Open Monday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. C.C. Azalea, Edif. A, CN340, km 173, Nueva Andalucía.

Tel: 951 339 309

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

EL CAMPANARIO Open every day for lunch. Open for dinner on Friday 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

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

EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ Open every night for dinner from 7:30pm. At Hotel Finca Cortesin, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

EL LAGO Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner. Urb. Elviria Hills.

Avda. Las Cumbres s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 832 371

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. THE GUIDE listings EL OCEANO BEACH HOTEL & RESTAURANT

HILLS CAFE

LA FAMIEKE

LA VERANDA LOBBY BAR

Open daily for lunch and dinner. CN 340, km 199, Marbella. Tel: 952 587 550

Open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 6pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 6pm. Closed on Monday. Tel: 952 856 171

Open nightly for dinner except Sunday. C/ Cruz 5, Plaza Puente de Ronda. Old Town Marbella. Tel: 674 055 995

Open every day for lunch and dinner. At the Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km 159, Estepona.

Tel: 952 809 500

EL OLIVO

HORIZON STEAKHOUSE

Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for lunch. At Marbella Golf & Country Club. CN 340, km. 188, Marbella. Tel: 952 830 500

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

Open daily for lunch and dinner except Tuesday.

C/ de las Piedras, Gaucín. Tel: 951 709 075

EL RESTAURANTE DEL CASINO

HOTEL MARBELLA CLUB BUFFET

Open every day for dinner from 8pm-4am. Hotel Andalucía Plaza s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 814 000

LA GRANADA DIVINO LA LOGGIA

L’OLIVE Open daily from 8am-6pm. At La Reserva Club. Avda. de la Reserva s/n, Sotogrande. Tel: 956 785 252

LOS ARCOS

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

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

FABIOLA

IL MARE

LA TERRAZA

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

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

KAVA

LATERAL

Open nightly for dinner. Plaza de Los Naranjos, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 824 108

Open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 1am, on Thursday and Friday from 9am to 2pm, on Saturday from 12pm to 2am and on Sunday from 12pm to 1am.

Plaza de Los Naranjos 7, Marbella. Tel: 952 163 894

FINCA EL FORJADOR Open daily for lunch from 1-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Ctra. de Casares, km. 10. Tel: 952 895 120

LA BIZNAGA

Open daily except Monday, 5pm to 11:30pm. Plaza Santo Cristo 6, Marbella. Tel: 952 901 040

Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and on Sunday for lunch only. Ctra. Ronda, km. 46, Urb. Las Medranas, local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 275 750

GALERIA SAN PEDRO

LA BRISA

LA TIENDA

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

Open for dinner Thursday to Monday from 7pm.

Kempinski Hotel Bahía Estepona. CN 340, km. 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 809 500

Open nightly for dinner except Mondays. C/ La Tienda 1, Urb. La Virginia, Marbella. Tel: 626 273 882

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

LA CAMPANA

Open Monday to Wednesday 10am-7.30p.m and Thursday to Sunday 10am-10pm. Urb. Coto Chico 4D, Marbella. Tel: 952 837 862

HAYACA

LA CANTINA DEL GOLF

Open Monday to Sunday from 7.30pm to 11pm. At the Amàre Hotel Marbella. Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, Marbella.

Tel: 951 562 083

Open for breakfast and lunch until 8pm. Closed Sunday.

Flamingo Golf Club, Cancelada, Benahavís.

Tel: 951 318 815

HERMOSA

LA CASA DEL HUMMUS

Open Tuesday to Sunday for dinner from 7pm. Closed Monday. Local 1A. Puerto de Cabopino.

Tel: 952 837 483

Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 11pm and Sunday 11am to 8pm. Plaza Puente de Málaga, C/ Mendoza 16, Marbella. Tel: 952 866 104

FRENCHETTE

GD GOURMET DELI MARBELLA

Open for lunch and dinner every day from 1pm to 1am.

Avda. Miguel de Cervantes 68, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 952 814 041

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

LA PLAGE CASANIS

LA VERANDA Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner.

Hotel Villa Padierna, Urb: Flamingos s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 889 150

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

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

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

MARE NOSTRUM Open daily for breakfast and dinner. At the Hotel Amàre Marbella. Avda. Severo Ochoa 8, Marbella. Tel: 800 843 493

MC CAFÉ Open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Marbella Club Hotel. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe, s/n. Tel: 952 822 211

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

MIRAFLORES GOLF RESTAURANT

LA VERANDAH

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

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

Tel: 956 615 998

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner from 8pm ‘til late. Monte Paraíso Golf, Marbella.

Tel: 951 217 272

MOJO

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listings THE GUIDE .

MOMO MARBELLA GOLDEN MILE Open nightly for dinner, except Sunday. Avda. Bulevar Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 30, Marbella. Tel: 952 770 760

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

NŌMŌ BRASSERIE

Open for lunch and dinner every day except for Sunday. Bulevar de San Pedro, San Pedro de Alcántara.

Tel: 951 702 168

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

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

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

ROSAS CAFÉ Open from 9am to 10pm daily. Avda. Playas del Duque 3, Marbella. Tel: 951 569 392

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

SAVOR Open 1pm to 3:30pm and 7:30pm to 11:30pm daily except Sunday evenings and Monday. Avda. Andalucía 6, Local 4, San Pedro de Alcántara. Tel: 951 531 777

SKAKERS URBAN BAR & FOOD Open daily for lunch and dinner. Avda. Julio Iglesias 9, Puerto Banús. Tel: 665 410 974

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

SHANTI-SOM – AMRITA 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

SKINA 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

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

SUITE

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

TIKITANO Open every day for lunch and dinner. Urb. Guadalmansa, CN340, km 164, Estepona.

Tel: 952 798 449

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

Dinner and afterwards dance to music by resident DJ. Thursday to Saturday. Hotel Puente Romano, Marbella.

Tel: 952 820 900

TROCADERO BEACH

TACOS & TIKKA

TRUFFLES

Open 1pm to 12am Monday to Sunday.

CN340, km 192, Las Chapas. Tel: 952 355 561

TEKUM

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

AND THE KITCHEN

Truffles is open daily from 6:30pm to 10:30pm nightly.

The kitchen is open daily from 12pm ‘til late. C.C. Pinares de Elviria, Local 18, Marbella. Tel: 951 569 173

Open Tuesday to Friday for lunch and dinner and for dinner only on Saturdays. Avda. Puerta del Mar 11, Marbella. Tel: 951 317 570

VENTA GARCÍA

TERRA SANA

VILLA PADIERNA CLUB DE MAR

Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Marina Banús, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 817 977. C.C. Laguna Village, Estepona. Tel: 951 901 050. C.C. Parque Miramar, Fuengirola. Tel: 952 663 937. Puerto Marina, Benalmádena. Tel: 951 915 069

THE ENGLISH GARDEN Open Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm to 11pm and Sunday from 1.30 to 9.30pm. Closed Mondays. Avda.

España 16, Urb. Buenavista, Sitio de Calahonda.

Tel: 952 930 252

THE MEETING ROOM Open 9am to 11pm every day except Sundays. Avda.

Ricardo Soriano 1, Local 1 (Edif. Portillo), Marbella.

Tel: 952 772 577

THE ORANGE TREE Open every evening from 6:30 pm-11 pm. Plaza General Chinchilla 1, Plaza de los Naranjos, Marbella.

Tel: 952 924 613.

Open daily for lunch and dinner every day except Monday. Ctra. de Casares km 7, Casares. Tel: 952 894 191 Open daily for lunch from 1pm to 6pm. CN 340, km 166, Marbella. Tel: 647 791 515

onwards. Muelle Benabola, Casa 5A, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 813 464

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

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

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

CIBO Open daily for lunch and dinner. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe 11, Marbella. Tel: 952 900 380

DA BRUNO 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

ZEST

DA PAOLO

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

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

DON GIOVANI

ZOZOI

Open every night for dinner from 7:30pm. At Hotel Finca Cortesin, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800

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

FRASCATI

italian

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

Open every day for dinner. Closed on Mondays. Urb. Jardines del Puerto, local 12, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 906 181

Open every day from 10am to 12 am. Complejo Benabola 13, Beach Side, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 929 055

AL DENTE

AMORE E FANTASÍA Open every day for lunch and dinner from 7pm

GOLD RESTAURANT

LA LOCANDA DEL PARADISO Open daily for lunch and dinner. Urb. Paraíso Barronal, km. 167, Estepona. Tel: 951 272 371

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. THE GUIDE listings LA PAPPARDELLA DI ESTEPONA

SERAFINA

KABUKI RAW

Open every day for lunch and dinner from 1pm to midnight. Puerto Deportivo de Estepona.

Tel: 952 802 144

Open from Monday to Saturday for dinner at the Puente Romano Hotel on the Golden Mile.

Tel: 952 771 798

KAIDEN SUSHI

LA PAPPARDELLA SUL MARE

VALPARAÍSO

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

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

LA TRATTORIA

VILLA TIBERIO

Open daily from 7pm to 11pm.

At the Don Carlos Leisure Resort & Spa. Avenida Zurita, s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 768 800

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

LEONARDO DA VINCI Open every night for dinner. Urb. Doña Lola, Local 21-22, Calahonda, Mijas Costa. Tel: 952 934 667

mediterranean

RESTAURANTE BAR CARMEN

LOMBARDO’S

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

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

oriental

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

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

NUNOS Open daily for lunch and dinner. At the Caleta Hotel.

Catalan Bay, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 76501

O MAMMA MIA Open every day except Sunday for lunch and dinner.

At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 909 990

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

AKIRA

Open nightly for dinner. At Reserva del Higuerón Resort. Higuerón Hotel Málaga, Curio Collection. Avda. del Higuerón 48, Fuengirola. Tel: 951 505 101

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

GENJI SUSHI BAR Open from 1:30pm-4pm and 8pm to 11pm. C/ Ramón Gomez de la Serna, 4, Edificio Balmoral. Marbella.

Tel: 951 530 955

Open Tuesday to Saturday for dinner. At Finca Cortesín Hotel. Ctra. Casares s/n, Casares. Tel: 952 937 800 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 Tuesday to Saturday from 8-11pm. The San Roque Club, Ctra. de Cádiz, km. 127, San Roque, Cádiz. Tel: 956 613 030

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

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

NOBU Open nightly for dinner. At the Puente Romano Beach Resort & Spa. Blvd. Príncipe Alfonso von Hohenlohe s/n, Marbella. Tel: 952 778 686

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

TOP THAI

OSAKA

Open daily for lunch and dinner. Centro Plaza, 64, Nueva Andalucía. Tel: 951 319 778. Also at C.C. Laguna Village, Local 11-13, Estepona. Tel: 952 806 661

Open every day 13:30-16:00 & 19:30-24:00. CN 340, km.

166 (Benavista). C.C. Costa del Sol. Tel: 952 885 751

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

SAKURA Open every day for lunch and dinner. Avda. José Banús, 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

GOLDEN WOK

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

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

Open for lunch from Monday to Friday and for dinner

SUSHI KATSURA

TSE YANG DIMSUM CLUB WAGAMAMA Open daily for lunch and dinner. 19 Ocean Village promenade, Gibraltar. Tel: +350 200 44182

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

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

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listings THE GUIDE .

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 11pm. Closed Mondays. Avda.

Antonio Belón, 26 (behind the lighthouse), Marbella.

Tel: 952 776 323

seafood

EL BARLOVENTO Open from 11am-4pm and 7.30-11pm every day except Mondays. Puerto Deportivo de Sotogrande, Cádiz.

Tel: 956 790 370

RESTAURANTE LA MARINA Open every day from 1-4.30pm and 8pm until midnight. Paseo Marítimo s/n, La Atunara, La Linea de la Concepción, Campo de Gibraltar.

Tel: 956 171 531

LA TORRE Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Muelle de Honor, Club de Mar, Puerto Banús. Tel: 952 811 561

MARISQUERÍA LA PESQUERA Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Plaza de la Victoria, Old Town, Marbella. Tel: 952 765 170

RESTAURANTE EL BOTE Open every day for lunch and dinner. Paseo Marítimo Rey sde España, Fuengirola.

Tel: 952 660 084

PALAPA Open daily for lunch and dinner.

C.C. Laguna Village, CN 340, km 159, Estepona. Tel: 952 808 165

SANTIAGO Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Paseo Marítimo, 5, Marbella.

Tel: 952 770 078

spanish BAHÍA

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

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

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

LA MÁQUINA Open daily for lunch and dinner except Sunday. At El Corte Inglés Food Hall, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 909 990

LA MORAGA BISTRÓ Open daily for lunch and dinner.

C/ Ramón Areces s/n, in front of El Corte Inglés, Puerto Banús.

Tel: 952 817 448

LA RED Open daily from 9.30am to 6pm.

Playa La Fontanilla, Marbella.

Tel: 952 821 450

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

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

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www.russellgrant.com

. THE GUIDEstars

RUSSELL GRANT’S

Year Ahead Horoscopes for 2020

ARIES LOVE & LIFE: As the year begins, you will want to

mix with people who are successful and who inspire you with their confidence and enthusiasm. Don’t be surprised to find friends flock to you between March and July, whenever they are in need of advice or a favour or two. This is because your zest for life will start to rub off on others. Travel connected with your work will be personally rewarding in May. Attending workshops and social gatherings will be lots of fun.

A neighbour will introduce you to a hobby or new sport in the summer which will be exciting. Mars in your sign later in the year will keep your energy levels high as 2020 ends, when creative projects will give you a wonderful sense of accomplishment. Spiritual pursuits will also be comforting.

MONEY & WORK: Take a sensible approach to finances in January. If joint financial arrangements aren’t working, this is a good time to set up three accounts: yours, mine and ours. Losses will occur unless you take control of your money.

Besides, you want to start saving for a special trip you’re planning for later in the year. If you have been thinking about

launching your own business, the spring would be a good time to do so. Business transactions in June will improve your financial situation. Give yourself a chance to relax and rejuvenate in August. Splash out on some expensive clothes or luxuries. A spa treatment or massage will be therapeutic. December is an ideal time to start making new plans for the future.

TAURUS LOVE & LIFE: There’s some excitement in store as the year begins. If you don’t take the chance to enjoy a change when it occurs you will always wonder what could have been. Uranus in your sign inspires you to experiment and to develop your creative talent. A need for love and romance brings out the kind and compassionate side of your nature in the spring. Let your nearest and dearest pamper you around your birthday. Important decisions will be made regarding romance, family and relationships in August. Life will have a spontaneous quality and venturing into new territory will be refreshing.

MONEY & WORK: Review your spending habits in January. You may need to make some adjustments to your budget. Wait until you know you can afford it before splashing out on some expensive clothes. July would be a good month to enjoy some sensual pleasures. Undergoing specialised training will add to your qualifications and help you achieve a career goal later in the year. Be open to switching career fields especially if your current situation is withering on the vine.

By November you will get a wellearned promotion or a great job offer. Your optimism will shine through in all that you do and this will also make a positive difference to both working and family relationships.

GEMINI LOVE & LIFE: Sharing your hopes and dreams with

the important people in your life will be a good way to build supportive relationships. Enjoying a passionate romance is a strong possibility as the year begins. If you are single, a new relationship will add zest and excitement to your life. Take up a creative pastime in May. Venus in your sign will bring out your artistic inclinations and you will feel encouraged to follow your dreams. Don’t be afraid to make a big change in the summer. Your partner will support you and you will feel you can achieve anything when you are fuelled by the power of romance.

MONEY & WORK: You are making steps towards

achieving a bold professional dream. The start of the year is a good time to apply for a grant, loan or scholarship. A new business or romantic partnership formed in May will be transformative and you will feel more optimistic about the future.

Look into money making schemes that allow you to work from home. Writing, editing and designing websites are good avenues to explore. You may need to strive for a healthy balance between your work and social life in the autumn. A new source of income will arrive as the year ends.

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CANCER LOVE & LIFE: Joint projects will stimulate your intellect as the year begins. Planets in Capricorn, your opposite sign, highlight partnership arrangements. Your social life will expand rapidly after joining a new club, team or organisation in the spring. There will be a competitive element to relationships in June and if you are single, don’t be surprised if you fall in love with one of your competitors. Together you will turn good ideas into great ones. You are starting to learn the benefit of positive thinking. Get into the habit of imagining how it will feel, look and sound to have achieved your goals. By the end of the year you will discover that fantasy can become reality.

MONEY & WORK: New business ventures of a joint nature will enrich your bank account as the year begins.

Transactions involving an inheritance, joint finances or an insurance settlement will go smoothly in June and this could coincide with some big changes in your relationships. You will be feeling more confident and more inclined to promote your abilities in the summer. Learning new skills or trying a different line of work will pay off handsomely in the autumn. A new job will give you a welcome opportunity to save more money as the year ends.

Opening an investment account will cultivate financial security.

CANCER: LEARNING NEW SKILLS OR TRYING A DIFFERENT LINE OF WORK WILL PAY OFF HANDSOMELY IN THE AUTUMN. A NEW JOB WILL GIVE YOU A WELCOME OPPORTUNITY TO SAVE MORE MONEY AS THE YEAR ENDS

LEO LOVE & LIFE: An experimental approach to life and relationships will help you uncover hidden talents.

New friends will introduce you to opportunities that could change your life. The more you allow spontaneity to flow, the happier you will be. Are you single?

A pleasant flirtation in the spring could mark the start of a wonderful relationship. Your personal charisma will be at an all-time high in September while Venus is in your sign. Getting a change of scenery will be inspirational.

Accept an exciting travel opportunity in October. You will meet someone special at a cultural or spiritual event in December.

MONEY & WORK: Exploring greener

pastures in March will make you realise you have been clinging too tightly to familiar routines and places and you are ready for a change. If you have been relying on your family to support you financially, a chance to become economically independent will arrive in May. A work assignment in July will allow you to exercise your imagination.

Helping those who are less fortunate will bring emotional fulfilment in September. A travel opportunity will be too good to turn down in the autumn thanks to a big discount on plane tickets and hotel rooms. If you’re offered a job for an overseas company in December, think seriously about accepting.

VIRGO LOVE & LIFE: Spending quality time with your favourite person will remind you of your priorities in January. Strong friendships will be made through getting involved in a community project. Are you single? Love is on the way to you and a romantic encounter is on the cards around Valentine’s Day. Venturing in new directions in the spring will make you feel better about the future. You will sense you are making progress in all areas of your life. September is a good month to book a dream holiday.

Take advantage of a great travel package deal. Accept an invitation to a glamorous gathering in December and you will have fun rubbing elbows with some influential people.

MONEY & WORK: A big cheque will be received as the year begins and this will allow you to splash out on some treats.

If you feel guilty about indulging your sensual side, buying some beautiful furniture, soft towels and bed linen will be a way of pampering yourself in a practical way. Caring for people and pets or a relative who is recovering from an illness will bring out your nurturing side in the spring. Your kindness and generosity will be rewarded. Use your personal magnetism to push your agenda as the year ends. Networking could lead to a wonderful job offer or long-term contract.

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LIBRA LOVE & LIFE: You are determined not to be indecisive as the year begins. You have a big decision to take and you need to make this on your own. Stop worrying about what your family will think of your relationship choices. You know what you want in romance and it is time to pursue the path that will bring you the greatest joy. Attending an overseas wedding will be lots of fun in the summer. You will form friendships with people who lead exciting lives. December will also bring the chance for you to make some valuable new contacts.

MONEY & WORK: Exploring new ideas in January will make you excited about the future. You might make it your New Year’s Resolution to act on your decisions immediately before you change your mind about what you want to do, as you so often do. Achieving greater independence will be your top priority in the spring. Even in a close business or romantic relationship, the more self-reliant you are, the more your partner will respect you. Your leadership ability will be valued in the workplace.

Get into the habit of putting a portion of your earnings into savings during the latter half of the year.

SCORPIO: MAKING TEMPORARY SACRIFICES TO HELP A LOVED ONE ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS WILL PAY OFF IN THE SPRING. DON’T BE SURPRISED IF SOMEONE ARRANGES SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOU IN MAY

SCORPIO LOVE & LIFE: Your closest relationships are more precious to you than gold. That’s why you will be making a partner’s needs a priority as the year begins. Making temporary sacrifices to help a loved one achieve their dreams will pay off in the spring.

Don’t be surprised if someone arranges something special for you in May. By the summer you should be thinking about making yourself happy and all relationships will benefit from this choice. A long journey will be a transformative experience. A partner’s good fortune will rub off on you in November. You might decide to look into starting a volunteer organisation together.

MONEY & WORK: Make it your aim to build up your cash reserves. If money has been tight, find an additional source of income. If your employer refuses to pay you what you are worth, start looking for another job. You could get a lucky break in your career in April. Update your CV and be ready to attend interviews on really short notice. Continue to practice financial restraint in the summer. Building a nest egg will give you peace of mind. Your high spirits as the year ends will attract love, luck and financial opportunities. A successful executive will offer to mentor you.

SAGITTARIUS LOVE & LIFE: A positive outlook will attract good opportunities your way. Love, adventure and abundance can be yours if you choose to pursue your dreams. Don’t look to others for guidance as the year begins. Make this a time to follow your heart. If you have no set goals for the year ahead, form a list of things that bring you happiness and make these a priority. If you yearn for romance, you could find it at a sporting event or through getting involved in a fundraiser in the summer. Embrace your inner romantic in December while Venus is in your sign. The end of the year is a great time to let your love flow.

MONEY & WORK: If you’re tired of working within the confines of a strict budget, finding another source of income is strongly advised as the year begins. Change is in the air and a new job with a bigger salary will put you on the road to financial freedom. Whatever your career goals, get started immediately.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step and the months ahead can feel like a big adventure as you take up new opportunities, try new activities and expand your horizons.

Agreements and negotiations in September will be successful.

This is your chance to move into the winner’s circle.

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CAPRICORN LOVE & LIFE: Make time for activities that bring you joy as the year begins. The more relaxed you feel, the more your happiness will expand. Follow a romantic impulse in February and don’t be afraid to show your affectionate side. Do something special for the one you love. A change will be as good as a rest in the spring. Take up a new hobby, go shopping for clothes or get involved with a fundraising effort.

A loving partnership will inspire you to launch a creative project in August. Arrange a special outing with your amour. Are you single? A relationship could begin under unusual circumstances in the autumn.

MONEY & WORK: With Jupiter in your sign, you will have good fortune with money, work and property in 2020. A new job or a promotion early in the year will mark an exciting turning point in your life. Focusing on your career goals in the spring will be rewarding.

Think about increasing your qualifications in June.

If money has been tight, finances will be less of a problem for you by the summer. Enjoy the chance to splash out on creature comforts. By far the easiest way to make money and attract abundance is to do what you love for a living.

AQUARIUS LOVE & LIFE: A new friendship could quickly become romantic as the year begins. If you are single, this is a great time to embrace your inner romantic. You radiate charm and admirers of all kinds will be flocking to your side. Happiness and positivity are powerful love magnets.

A special occasion in June will bring a perfect opportunity for you to have fun with your family and friends. Obey a powerful whim to travel in October and then don’t feel guilty about leaning on your partner or best friend when you need help as the year ends. Arrange a fun festive outing in December.

MONEY & WORK: You will have the ability to spin straw into gold as the year begins. Creating things of beauty will bring you lots of pleasure. Restoring old furniture, making jewellery and baking cakes are just a few outlets for your creativity. When you feel positive and confident it will be easier for you to attract moneymaking opportunities. Emphasise your practical accomplishments during an interview in the summer. You will be taking on more responsibility at work and this is a challenge you will accept with enthusiasm. Changes in your career will allow you to save more money, giving you a greater measure of financial freedom as the year ends.

PISCES LOVE & LIFE: Beware of neglecting your own health as the year begins because you are putting everyone else’s needs and feelings in front of your own. You love to please people but there are some who will take advantage of your kindness. Making relaxation a priority and eating nutritious food will keep exhaustion at bay. A romantic relationship will gain momentum in the summer. An opportunity to travel will fall into your lap. Are you single? You could meet someone special while travelling abroad or venturing into new territory. A new spiritual practice will sooth your soul in December.

MONEY & WORK: You want to be successful and achieving a career aim will require hard work and dedication. Do your best to fulfil all obligations as the year begins. Your boss and people in high places will be impressed by your reliability and excellent work ethic. Your diligence will be rewarded in the spring when you will be offered a raise or promotion. Exciting career developments in the summer will pave the way for even better things to come. This will be the chance you have been waiting for to increase your income. Splash out on a luxury holiday in a warm climate in November. e

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