Essential Marbella Online - May 2020

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ESSENTIAL FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING

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COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL EDITION

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PLAGUE 101

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2.480.000€

Tel. (+34) 951 615 372 | info@otero.com.es | www.otero.com.es Revista Otero Lux.indd 3

26/02/2020 13:29:43

5 BEDS / 6 BATH LUXURY VILLA WITH AMAZING SEA VIEWS

Revista Otero Lux.indd 4

26/02/2020 13:29:44

D WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

A

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

s I write this on Earth Day, 40 days into the quarantine here in Spain, things are looking better. The transmission rate has dropped below 1 and, with the number of new cases consistently falling, it looks like many establishments will be permitted to re-open over the coming weeks, particularly in Andalucía which is seen as a low risk area. As the route to recovery will be cautious and gradual, we are still likely to spend a lot of time at home, and we hope you will make good use of it enjoying this month’s content.

In this issue, we bring you blockbuster movies and top streaming series to keep you entertained, podcasts that are addictive, bread-making machines for fresh homecooked loaves, video coverage of chefs preparing enticing recipes, and activities to try out with your pets.

Check out our special features on Plagues Through History, Puerto Banús reaching its 50th Anniversary, and Champagne vs Cava.

Pininfarina launched 90 years ago this month and its enduring influence on automotive design, interior styling, and innovative architecture is inspirational. So too is a spectacular villa reformation in Las Torres de Marbella Club on the Golden Mile.

We discover what’s trending currently in Spain and further afield and, though we may not be able to travel right now, Madeira is one destination to aspire to visit.

Finally, don’t miss our principal article on Mindfulness Through the Quiet Storm, which perfectly encapsulates what we have all been going through as well and our hopes and aspirations for our fragile Earth.

“THE EARTH IS WHAT WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON” WENDELL BERRY

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ARG L N DO E W E VI BEST N! PRESS E SCRE

T ON YROY COM UR OR TAPUTER BLET !

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Issue 249 • May 2020 PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

o o gto t k clicrectlytion d i sec the

ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com

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MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

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CONDITIONS

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.

Trying to keep abreast of Brexit and changes in Spain and the UK? Life is difficult just now, but even when things return to more normal conditions it can be hard to keep up to date. With tax, pension and other regulations changing regularly, and all the uncertainties surrounding Brexit, our regular ‘Wealth News’ eNewsletters can help keep you informed about the important tax and financial changes that may affect you and your family.

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INTERNATIONAL TA X ADVICE • INVESTMENTS • ESTATE PLANNING • PENSIONS Blevins Franks Financial Management Limited (BFFM) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, reference number 179731. Where advice is provided outside the UK, via the Insurance Distribution Directive or the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II, the applicable regulatory system differs in some respects from that of the UK. Blevins Franks Trustees Limited is authorised and regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority for the administration of trusts and companies. Blevins Franks Tax Limited provides taxation advice; its advisers are fully qualified tax specialists. This promotion has been approved and issued by BFFM.

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La Zagaleta

This state-of-the-art residence is definitely one of the most exclusive properties and offers the ultimate luxury and a stunning design in the exclusive Country Club of La Zagaleta. This eco-friendly opulent villa has been designed to maximize the sense of privacy and blends into the natural surroundings. It impresses at first sight, with its ultra-modern design, attention to detail, highquality materials and fittings, benefiting from a restricted stylish colour palette,

exquisite furnishings and décor. The villa boasts double height reception areas including an expansive hallway, living room with several spacious lounge and dining areas, all opening onto the magnificent terraces with chillout areas, a separate entertainment area with bar, games room and a Spa with indoor pool and gym. 8 beds, 11 baths. Built 2.500 m2, plot 7.350 m2.

E&V ID: W-02CMIZ. Price: 12.750.000 €.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 859 860 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

Marbesa

Situated in one of the trendiest beach resorts of Marbella, this recently completed villa is situated just 600 meters from the beach and offers a stylish, modern design and beautifully decorated interiors. Built to the highest qualities, integrating natural stones and the best materials, this villa is certainly one of the most attractive beachside properties. With open plan reception areas leading onto the large terraces with several sitting and

entertainment areas, the villa boasts four beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms with large windows and private terraces, as well as a large solarium with open sea views, chill-out and bar area. The lower floor provides a large entertainment area that can be converted into further bedrooms. All floors are connected by an elevator. 4 beds, 5 baths. Built 581 m2, plot 1.265 m2.

E&V ID: W-02IATO. Price: 3.750.000 â‚Ź.

Elviria Shop: 952 835 580 ¡ www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

El Madroñal

Fantastically priced villa in a charming Andalusian style, with spectacular sea views; this impressive residence is nestled in the prestigious gated community of El Madroñal, surrounded by picturesque countryside, yet only minutes away from Puerto Banús and the beach. A property with charm and character set on a large 6000 m2 plot with marvellous landscaped gardens accessed through a magnificent driveway. Large reception areas with high ceilings, separate dining

room, all with direct access to the large terraces. The property offers six ensuite bedrooms of which two can be used as separate studio apartments and include a kitchenette. The lower level with a sauna and shower leads to the swimming pool and chill-out outdoor area. A real jewel in a prestigious location offered at a very attractive price. 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 785 m2, plot 6.000 m2.

E&V ID: W-02I5EP. Price: 2.500.000 €.

Puerto Banús Shop: 952 859 860 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

Sierra Blanca

Built to perfection and enjoying beautiful sea views, this property, situated on an elevated corner plot of 3.737 m2 bordering the prestigious community of Sierra Blanca, offers not only a stunning design throughout, but also beautiful outdoor areas and all the imaginable luxury amenities one would expect from such an upmarket property. Spacious, open plan, marvellous reception areas with vaulted ceilings, a large living room, separate dining area and a stylish,

high quality kitchen all leading onto large terraces overlooking the beautiful swimming pool area. There are six chic en-suite bedrooms and a separate Spa level with indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna, and steam room. This is one of the most beautiful and luxurious properties in this privileged area and must be seen! 6 beds, 6 baths. Built 1.201 m2, plot 3.737 m2.

E&V ID: W-02EWM2. Price: 4.500.000 €.

Golden Mile Shop: 952 868 406 · www.engelvoelkers.com/Marbella

D

contents

THE ESSENTIAL

6 Publisher’s Letter

GO TO THE SPOTLIGHT

22 Mindfulness Through the Quiet Storm 32 Lockdown Exit Strategies 44 Plagues Throughout History 56 Florence Nightingale 66 Puerto Banús – 50 this Month!

78 Madeira 90 Pininfarina Turns 90

GO TO THE TREND 102 Great Films to View at Home 110 Top Netflix Series to Catch 118 Hot HBO Series to Watch 124 Top Podcasts 128 Must-Read Books during Lockdown 132 Teens Lend a Helping Hand 138 What’s Cool in Spain and Abroad

GO TO THE STYLE 146 Villa Amapola on the Golden Mile 158 Spring Décor Pieces 162 Fashion by Custo 170 Toys, Training and Games for Pets

GO TO THE SPA 174 Vitamin D 180 Hotel Chocolat Skincare

GO TO THE PRO 184 Property: The Edge 192 Enterprise and Local Solidarity

GO TO THE GOURMET 212 Top Online Recipes

by Hot Chefs 220 José Andrés Lends a Hand During COVID-19 224 Top Bread-Making Machines 228 Gourmet Bytes 234 Cava vs Champagne

GO TO THE STARS 240 Stars for May

WE ARE OPEN FOR LIVE PRIVATE VIDEO TOURS OF AVAILABLE APARTMENTS! During these unprecedented times our thoughts are with you, your families, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. This is a time for us to be working together to help those less fortunate than ourselves, and to be strong and kind.

Please call our sales team and make an appointment for your live video tour. Our sales team will walk you through the apartments you are interested in, and then send you a recording of the tour for you to view at your leisure.

Stay safe and well.

Your Nine Lions Residences Team Follow us: 9lionsresidences

www.9lionsresidences.com

marbella’s most beautiful apartments

Your contact:

Mark Lamb Commercial Director mark@9lionsresidences.com +34 691 901 976

(previously known as UK & European Investments)

Connecting people and property, perfectly (Now also remotely)

As Marbella Luxury Real Estate specialists for almost three decades and exclusive affiliates of Knight Frank for the Costa del Sol, we are committed to offering our clients the best property portfolio, excellence in service and a completely secure experience when selling or buying a property.

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There’s a human element in the world of property that is too easily overlooked. At DM Properties we build long-term relationships which allow us to provide personalised advice on all areas of property. We believe taking a personal approach is crucial when interacting with our clients, as it gives us a detailed understanding

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of how we can connect them with the perfect property or finding the right buyer. Our company has been operating for more than three decades, and now in these unprecedented circumstances we continue to place our clients - buyers and sellers - at the heart of everything we do. Meet our team here.

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info@dmproperties.com DMproperties.com

e back to CONTENTS

the spotlight

WHEN THINGS ARE AT THEIR TOUGHEST, MINDFULNESS CAN BRING US ‘DOWN TO EARTH’, SERVING AS A REMINDER THAT EVERYTHING IS PASSING. THIS MONTH, WE OFFER YOU MANY REASONS TO ENJOY THE HERE AND NOW, WITH FEATURES ON LOCKDOWN EXIT STRATEGIES, PLAGUES THROUGHOUT HISTORY, FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE, AND PUERTO BANÚS – AS IT TURNS 50 THIS MONTH! FINALLY, WE INVITE YOU TO MARVEL AT ÜBER COOL PININFARINA, WHICH HAS BEEN DAZZLING US WITH STYLE FOR 90 YEARS.

GO TO PAGE 66 PUERTO BANÚS IS 50 THIS MONTH!

GO TO PAGE 44 PLAGUES THROUGHOUT HISTORY

GO TO PAGE 90 PININFARINA TURNS 90

GO TO PAGE 32 LOCKDOWN EXIT STRATEGIES

CULTURE HISTORY PEOPLE MOTORING 22 Mindfulness Through the Quiet Storm 32 Lockdown Exit Strategies 44 Plagues Throughout History 56 Florence Nightingale 66 Puerto Banús: 50 this Month!

78 Madeira 90 Pininfarina Turns 90

D THE SPOTLIGHT mindfulness

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It was bound to happen sooner or later. The virus, I mean. The planet is a very small place, and we are all interconnected – in sickness and in health, as the traditional wedding vow goes.

MINDFULNESS

THROUGH THE QUIET STORM WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY KARETHE LINAAE

22 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

T

ake the example of Spain. With a staggering 83.7 million tourists visiting last year, this country is like a revolving door of cultures, money – and germs.

Consider next the millions of nationals who work, study and vacation abroad, and then add every single item that is fabricated overseas and shipped here, and it is easy to see how a virus can become a global pandemic.

On Saturday the 14th of March, 2020, Spain declared a state of National Emergency. Together with the rest of the country, Ronda went into lockdown.

Schools, businesses, stores, associations and churches, and even their beloved tapas bars shut down for an undetermined length of time. Reluctantly at first, the overly social Andalusians had to learn about public distancing, and though hand washing habits leave much to be desired here, the traditional kissing as a greeting is

probably the hardest habit to break for the local populous.

In our little town, police are on the street ensuring that rules are enforced. The Spanish Legion is patrolling outside the regional hospital. Only one person from each family can leave the house for approved errands, such as buying food or medicine, or dog walking, preferably sporting surgical gloves and mask.

No other outdoor activities are allowed, except a peakover-your-shoulder jog to the garbage and recycling containers. Anyone breaking curfew risks being heavily fined. At the moment, this is the new normal.

Now in the second month of ‘house arrest’, everybody seems to have chilled. Most days our entire neighbourhood is in pyjamas and sweatpants.

Who cares! If we are going to be at home anyhow, we might as well be comfortable… We are not so worried anymore

about what we have accomplished. People are coping as best as they can in their homes, reading, cleaning, cooking, baking, studying, sending jokes on WhatsApp and watching movies. To be sure, most of us are not suffering any hardship. We have roofs over our heads, food in our fridge, electricity, running water and high speed Internet. Although the Amazon delivery guy looks like a character in The Mask, online orders are allowed, mail deliveries have restarted and there are many ways we can chat with friends and family.

The longer this lasts, the less I want to go out. We limit our food shopping to once a week and eating to twice a day (more than sufficient if one considers my all-time-low daily step count of 39). We avoid excessive news watching, nurturing ourselves by reading instead. If we cannot go places, we can always travel in our minds.

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 23

D THE SPOTLIGHT mindfulness

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Light a candle

The so-called isolation we are experiencing is probably good for us in more ways than one.

There is no end to what one can do enclosed en casa. We witness locals inventing creative ways to stay in touch and support each other. A friend recorded himself playing guitar. A priest has started an online prayer group. Another friend started singing the first lines of a song, prompting others to continue, like a musical WhatsApp chain reaction. People we hardly know send suggestions for movies

24 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

and documentaries to watch, articles to read and online TED talks to listen to. A Dutch couple we know have created an impromptu gym in their hallway. Others walk the stairs instead of the StairMaster or do walking meditation rounds on their stamp-sized balconies.

I bet that our friend Pilar dances flamenco in her living room. Though I am a terrible cook, once I have finalised deep cleaning the entire house with a toothbrush, I might find a step-by-step video to finally learn how to make a decent Spanish tortilla.

Following nature in microcosmic ways

What is positive about this communal confinement is exactly that – that it is a shared experience. Though we are in separate homes, we are in it together.

There is a growing sense of solidarity.

Increasingly, people seem to be less concerned about their appearances and more concerned about the well being of others. While in some places people may have fought for the last package of TP in the grocery stores, here I find a growing sense of empathy, kindness and solidarity.

Every evening at 8 pm residents all over Spain go to their windows or doors and clap for the doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers, police officers and emergency personnel risking their heath and safety to help us through the crisis. Whether they

have a choice or not, or are bound by a Hippocratic oath, it is still a commendable act. And for us, the enclosed masses, we thank them in our simple, yet exhilarating way, by clapping and cheering every night.

Hopefully we will also remember the pandemic’s unsung heroes, such as street cleaners, assembly line workers, bus drivers, shelf stockers and cashiers.

It is an uncertain time for many. I feel for two neighbours who are about to give birth, whom I am sure are not only worried about the safety of the hospital itself, but also what world their new child will grow up in. My heart goes out to friends and family who are living in the epicentres, to people who are sick, and for those waiting for hospital treatments, surgeries or results on cancer tests. What hardship do we have compared to theirs?

Ronda behind bars

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 25

D THE SPOTLIGHT mindfulness

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Watch the birds

A doctor friend was quarantined after being exposed to a patient with the virus. The first thing he did when he returned to his office was to personally call every one of his patients to check how they were doing. Many are older and most were terrified. They know that they are the most vulnerable, yet they are often the least equipped to find out how to protect themselves. So, with all our extra time, we should try to find ways of helping those who cannot help themselves.

Come what may, this is something we have to go through. We know that it has gone on for weeks and are waiting

26 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

for it to come to an end. However, while we shut our doors to our friends and neighbours, this is a great opportunity to open our hearts to others and show random kindness, even if it is over the Internet.

This crisis is a chance to learn to want less and live with less, to be grateful for what we do have and to willingly share our bounty. It is time to slow down, and stop counting our assets but rather our blessings. This is the time to be generous with our time, lending our ears and showing empathy. We cannot hug each other, so a friendly wave or a timely note means so much more.

The virus has forced us to stop in our tracks, giving the planet a break from our incessant pollution. It proves that we can stop Global Warming if we want to, or if we are afraid enough... This is not the last virus that will plague the earth. We ought to be mindful of its lessons so we might be better prepared next time around.

When I walked to the shop the other day, I noticed how rapidly spring had advanced while we have been inside.

Yet I don’t consider it a lost season.

This time-out is giving us a chance to

reflect on what is important in life and to gain knowledge in new areas. As I communicate with friends from LA to Delhi, we all express the same concerns and have the same wishes for the future.

We share the same destiny. We all overconsumed, over-lived and over-travelled.

We must all change.

I hope that humankind will come out of this crisis a bit wiser, kinder and more patient, and that we never forget that something as simple as going outside can be a privilege. 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

Pink sky in the morning, sailors’ warning. Photo from bed.

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 27

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D THE SPOTLIGHT lockdown

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WHAT DOES A SUSTAINABLE EXIT STRATEGY LOOK LIKE? “Lockdown saves lives but it isn’t sustainable.”

Thus begins a 38-page report by the TBIGC research organisation, indicating the ideal path to ‘the new normal’ imposed by COVID-19. The researchers have stated that although confinement is a given at this point in time, the immense collateral damage it is causing (both economic and health-related) requires a smart exit strategy. In this article we summarise the main points made in the report.

32 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

THE CONSEQUENCES OF LOCKDOWN

Z THE ECONOMIC AND HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF LOCKDOWN: The GDP in the UK is predicted to fall by 35% and unemployment to rise to 10%. The health sector itself has currently suffered a change in activity of 50%. Confinement is hitting those earning lower incomes the hardest.

Z HEALTH AND EDUCATION: Just six months of lockdown could result in 60,000 excess cancer deaths in the UK. Daily hospital visits for suspected heart attacks have been halved from 300 to 150. Learning has also been affected, with test scores expected to be reduced by 6% of a standard deviation.

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 33

D THE SPOTLIGHT lockdown

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SUGGESTIONS FOR LIMITED NORMALISATION Z SCHOOLS: The Institute reports that children are less likely to contract (or suffer severe symptoms of) COVID-19 (only 2.4% of cases are aged less than 19 and of these, only 2.5% showed severe symptoms).

The Institute therefore sees the reopening of schools as a viable first step when easing lockdown.

Z AGE SEGMENTATION: The Institute recommends that young people be allowed to return to work first, as they have the lowest personal risk. Warwick University proposes releasing workers aged 20-30 who do not live with their parents.

34 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

Z SECTOR SEGMENTATION: Reopening lower-risk sectors of the economy (such as manufacturing industries) could help lessen losses and keep the Ro (reproduction number of the virus) lower than if everyone were allowed to return to work at once. Restaurants can eventually open if they maintain social distancing and cinemas can be half-filled (my opinion: the latter could take longer as dining out and watching movies often involve being in a closed environment with air conditioning currents).

Z GEOGRAPHIC SEGMENTATION: Less affected areas can ease restrictions first.

MINIMISING THE TRADE-OFF

Relaxing confinement measures could raise the Ro. Two measures can be taken to lower risks. These are containment and shielding (protecting the most vulnerable – our elderly). The most obvious means of containment are: 1. Mass testing.

2. App-augmented contact tracing: apps can act as a ‘passport’ out of lockdown.

The Institute estimates that 60% app usage could end the epidemic.

3. Mask acquisition and production on a vast scale for frontline workers and those in the retail, transport, and service sectors. Masks are most effective in public places but “fail to prevent infections in large crowds.”

Shielding essentially means that the last members to exit confinement should be older people and those with pre-existing health conditions.

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 35

D THE SPOTLIGHT lockdown

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Plaza Cibeles of Madrid, empty due to the Coronavirus outbreak

WHAT IS EUROPE DOING?

The Institute notes that many countries are past peak infection rates. Testing capacity is limited, and tracing is still in its early stages. The European Commission advises governments to expand testing, leave one-month gaps between different stages of exit, and lift measures locally, extending the possibility of exit gradually. They should relax EU borders before external ones, insist services have restricted opening hours, and continue to enforce confinement for vulnerable groups. Â 36 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

TIMELINES FOR EASING CONFINEMENT

The Institute provides timelines for easing suppression depending on when the first infection peak occurred.

They predict that Spain, for instance, will end lockdown on May 10, given that in midApril, manufacturing, construction, and some stores reopened. They noted that East Asia has a stricter outlook on confinement. Several countries have faced

a renewed spike in infections (Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong, Japan) though their numbers are way below those found in Europe. Â

CURRENT STRATEGIES:

The report has an excellent chart you should have a look at if you wish to compare strategies.

It essentially shows that some countries (e.g. Germany) have already started their exit via the partial lifting of restrictions by sector,

the partial use of masks, partial app-based tracing, and mass testing. Sadly, Spain is behind in these aspects with respect to other countries (including Italy, France, Austria, Denmark, South Korea). In fact it was dismaying to see Spain as the country with the largest number of red dots (meaning no action was being taken as of when the Institute recently printed its report) in areas such as mass testing, and app-based tracing.Â

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 37

D THE SPOTLIGHT lockdown

back to CONTENTS President Pedro Sánchez

SPAIN Spain also had red dots next to the reopening of schools and age segmentation, but given our numbers and infection rate, are we currently ready for these strategies? Taking more active steps in this respect is dependent, above all, on testing but we have faced so many setbacks – including the higher Ro following 8M and the government’s purchase of defective tests and masks (which resulted in tens of thousands of health workers being infected).

The higher the rate of new

contagions in a country, the slower the exit will be.

Early last month, (El País, April 7) the government announced its intention to conduct ‘rapid testing’ on 36,000 families. As stated

by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, however, the fact that people can potentially be infected with the virus a second time means that this type of test is useful in a limited sense – it enables us to understand what percentage of the population has been infected. Much wider testing is needed if we are to create

a ‘passport’ system that will enable us to conduct an effective and safe lockdown that will kickstart the economy once again.

Recently, President Sánchez stated that Spain was one of the countries that conducted most tests on the public.

This contrasts with data compiled by the University of Oxford, which does not include Spain in its list of top countries that conduct tests (the list measures the total number of COVID-19 tests per 1,000 people).

The Spanish government

On 28th April the Spanish Government issued a four phase plan setting out the gradual lifting of the lockdown. You can access this VISIT OUR FACEBOOK HERE plan in detail on our Facebook page: 38 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

FURTHER READING:

recently announced that it would be creating a lockdown exit strategy that promises to be “asymmetric (i.e. lockdown will vary according to the extent of the problem in different areas), gradual, and organised.”

The plan, President Sánchez said, would be announced in a matter of days to the Council of Ministers and sent to the respective Presidents of the autonomous communities.

The consequences of these decisions are high but by Sanchez’ words, it seems our strategy won’t be very different from the one suggested by the TBIGC. It will involve exiting by age, sector, and state of health.

The only real difference is the time frame. We could, in theory, have already begun taking many of the crucial first steps. e

RTVE – Coronavirus Infections Daily Update

Time – ‘It’s Like Being A War Medic.’ A Madrid Doctor Speaks Out About Grave Shortages In Protective Gear

New York Times – 40,000 Missing Deaths: Tracking The True Toll Of The Coronavirus Outbreak

El País – 70.000 Enfermeras Pueden Estar Infectadas Por Coronavirus (70,000 Nurses Could Be Infected By Corona Virus)

El País – El Uso De Mascarillas Defectuosas Obliga A Aislar A Más De Mil Sanitarios (The Use Of Defective Masks Forces The Isolation Of More Than A Thousand Health Workers)

Newtral – Sánchez: «España Es De Los Países Del Mundo Que Más Test Realiza A Su Población» (Sanchez Says “Spain Is One Of The Countries In The World That Tests Its Population The Most”)

El País – El Gobierno Planea Hacer Test A 30.000 Familias Para Conocer La Expansión Del Coronavirus En España (The Government Plans To Test 30,000 Families To See The Expansion Of The Coronavirus In Spain)

El Periodico – Muerte En Las Residencias: Los Testimonios (Death In Residences: The Testimonies)

Heraldo – CSIF Exige Retirar Las Mascarillas Defectuosas Y Poner En Cuarentena A Sanitarios Que Las Hayan Utilizado (CSIF Requires Removing The Defective Masks And Quarantining Health Workers That Have Used Them)

20 Minutos – Al Menos 60 Sanitarios De Un Hospital De Murcia Aislados Por Usar Las Mascarillas Defectuosas Del Gobierno (At Least 60 Health Workers From A Murcia Hospital Isolated For Using The Defective Government Masks)

@ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 39

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D THE SPOTLIGHT plagues

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PLAGUE

WARS Belinda Beckett revisits the worst pandemics in history and finds reasons to be thankful we’re living in the 21st century

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“BUT WHAT DOES IT MEAN, THE PLAGUE? IT’S LIFE, THAT’S ALL.” ALBERT CAMUS FROM HIS 1947 NOVEL, LA PESTE.

The Triumph of Death (1562) by Flemish painter Pieter Brueghel reflects the aftermath of plague in Europe

N

othing has killed more human beings than infectious disease – neither flood nor famine, not even war – and not just in ancient times. Two of the worst outbreaks in history struck in the 20th century and the Black Death is still with us.

Death from contagion has been in decline since the 1940s thanks to modern medicine but, as Covid-19 reminds us, murderous microbes haven’t gone away.

Far from it, their number has seen a fourfold uptick in the last 50 years. The planet is hosting double the number of humans it did 50 years ago, and 12 times more livestock carrying infections that can leapfrog to us. We spread them around our crowded cities and take them on our travels with our carry-on luggage, allowing new pathogens to flourish where once they might have died out.

On the bright side, we have it better than in former times when only the rich could afford doctors and victims were forcibly isolated – nailed into their homes and left to die.

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BUBONIC PLAGUE Plague has been with us for 5,000 years, contributing to the fall of the Roman Empire, wiping out half the population of medieval Europe and still cropping up in isolated outposts.

It all started when infected black rats stowed away in grain shipments from Egypt, unleashing biblical infestations of fleas in Constantinople where humans and livestock lived cheek by jowl.

Between 541 and 750AD over 500 million people were literally bitten to death. Emperor Justinian 1 who gave his name to the first pandemic showed no mercy, not only taxing afflicted tenant farmers in full but charging

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them for rent owed by their dead neighbours.

It took another 800 years for the disease to travel the Silk Road to Europe where it was dubbed the Black Death after the colour of the egg-sized swellings.

Homes stricken by plague were marked with crosses and death was hastened by ‘home cures’ – dead pigeon rubs, dung and urine poultices, self-flagellation… you couldn’t make it up but people did.

Plague resurfaced every 20 years for the next three centuries, culminating in a third pandemic which started in China in 1855, hitting India worst, and was still considered active until 1960.

Man and women with the bubonic plague with its characteristic buboes on their bodies, Medieval painting from a German language Bible of 1411 from Toggenburg Switzerland.

Medieval illustration of plague doctors fighting Pestilence, one of the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse

CAUSE Yersinia pestis bacteria SYMPTOMS Black, swollen lymph glands (buboes) in the armpits, neck and groin. Could spread to the lungs and blood as pneumonic/septicemic plague, fatal if untreated.

LEGACIES QUARANTINE: The practice originates from Black Death times when the world trade capital of Venice required ships from infected ports to remain at anchor offshore for 40 days – ‘quaranta giorni’ in Italian.

ANTIBIOTICS: French bacteriologist Alexandre Yersin isolated the plague bacillus in 1894 and Scottish microbiologist Alexander Fleming’s penicillin provided the silver bullet in 1928.

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CAUSE Variola virus SYMPTOMS Skin rash develops into fluid-filled pustules which scab and leave deep scars, causing blindness in rare cases. Babies and young children were the most vulnerable

PLAGUE DOCTORS

These beaked terrors with round glass eyes were your (slim) hope of survival from bubonic plague In the 17th century.

Hired by cities to treat rich and poor alike, many were quacks under their trademark wide-brimmed hats and Levantine leather overcoats. But though their spine-chilling ‘cures’, including bloodletting with leeches to ‘balance the humours’, rarely worked, their diligent note-taking is the reason we have such good historical records.

The costume, a precursor to PPE, was devised by Charles de Lorme, chief physician to the Medicis and three French kings. The hollow beak had slits for breathing and was filled with aromatic herbs and spices to stave off bad odours thought to be the root cause. A cane to keep patients at a distance and remove their clothing without contact completed the scary outfit.

If the mask looks familiar, it’s modelled on Il Medico della Peste, a character from Italy’s commedia dell’arte, worn all over Venice during Carnival Fortnight.

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LEGACY HERD IMMUNITY: The eradication of smallpox in 1980 was one of the greatest triumphs in medical history – the first and only human disease to be stopped in its tracks by a vaccine. The campaign inspired immunisation programmes for many other major diseases including diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, measles and TB. Vaccinating the poor of New York City against smallpox in 1872. In 1863, mass production of smallpox vaccine was developed, allowing for broad immunisation of North American and European populations

SMALLPOX The killer virus first incubated by rodents 10,000 years ago and passed between humans via infectious respiratory droplets has claimed over half a billion lives down the centuries and its scars run deep. It saw off Egyptian Pharaoh Rameses V and Louis XV of France, left Queen Elizabeth 1 and Beethoven pockmarked for life, and shipped over with New World explorers to wreak genocide among native American Indian tribes.

In Europe it was scything down 400,000 victims a year when British doctor Edward

Jenner discovered that milkmaids who’d had cowpox were immune and developed the first vaccine in 1796 (‘vacca’ is Latin for cow). But the global inoculation programme mounted by the World Health Authority in 1967 came too late to save the 500 million who succumbed to the scabrous killer during the last 100 years of its existence.

Technically the virus is still with us.

Stocks are kept at high security labs in America and Russia, just in case the genie should escape from the bottle again.

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SPANISH FLU WW1 claimed 20 million lives, Spanish flu took more than double.

‘The greatest medical holocaust in history’ killed more people in 24 weeks than AIDS in 24 years and infected one third of the world’s population between January 1918 and December 1920. It struck when the world was still at war and spread in a vicious second wave

Medical men wore masks to avoid the flu at U.S. Army hospital during the 1918-19 ‘Spanish’ Influenza pandemic

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as weak and malnourished troops returned home, many to die in their beds having survived four years in the trenches. Healthy 20-40 yearolds also succumbed, possibly due to an overreaction of their immune systems, a theory coronavirus is now putting to the test. The Bishop of Zaragoza begged to differ, stating: “The evil hanging over us is a consequence of our sins and lack

of gratitude, and that is why the vengeance of eternal justice has fallen upon us.”

But it was no more Spanish flu than Covid-19 is Chinese. There was no wartime censorship in neutral Spain and when King Alfonso XIII caught it the news went viral and the name stuck. The Spanish had their own name for it – el soldado de Nápoles (the Naples soldier) after a song in a popular operetta said to be as ‘catchy as the flu’.

Communities collapsed, healthcare workers were too ill to tend the sick, bodies were buried in mass graves and people took to home remedies, chewing cinnamon sticks, brewing up Oxo cube toddies and guzzling wine. Lockdowns were ad hoc but populations that kept the strictest social distancing made the fastest economic recovery.

The same virus returned with a vengeance in 2009.

We called it swine flu.

CAUSE H1N1 influenza virus SYMPTOMS Hacking cough and fever that could turn into pneumonia, 99% of victims were under 65 LEGACY THE ELECTRON MICROSCOPE: invented in 1931, enabled the study of organisms too small to see before. The influenza vaccine followed in 1938. Today ‘flu shots’ are developed twice a year for the northern and southern hemispheres to take mutations into account.

Masked nurse pumping water at a field hospital during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. United States, September 1918 @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 51

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MODERN PLAGUES

Germs have got savvier and we’re fighting off their mutant forms like never before.

Over 30 new diseases have emerged in the last three decades alone and 75% are ‘zoonotic’ (passed from animals to humans); SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) a coronavirus prevalent in horseshoe bats and civets, MERS its Middle East equivalent (bats, camels) Ebola and AIDS (fruit bats, chimpanzees), Zika (mosquitos) and Covid-19 (potentially bats, pangolins) are just some.

Intensive farming, butchery, poaching and the illegal exotic pet and bush meat trades are bringing us closer to animals while climate change and habitat destruction is bringing them closer to us. Add our own global connectivity and

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SARS-CoV-2 virus cell

VIDEO: COVID-19 Animation: What Happens If You Get Coronavirus?

Nucleus Medical Media 2020 - 7:27 you have a ticking time bomb that makes ‘squashing the sombrero’ – as Boris Johnson vividly described his bid to flatten the curve of the current outbreak – infinitely more challenging today.

The World Heath Authority reports one billion cases and millions of deaths from zoonoses every year, stating: “The lesson of our present time is that emerging zoonotic infections are unexpected and unpredictable events and that any disease outbreak anywhere today could be a problem for the world tomorrow.” e

VIDEO: COVID-19 How is the Earth reacting to the pandemic? - BBC - 3:21

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When Boris Johnson lay on his sickbed in St. Thomas’s Hospital, London, he couldn’t have been in better hands. It’s where Florence Nightingale, born 200 years ago this May, founded the world’s first nursing school. Her bicentennial exhibition at the hospital museum showcasing 200 of her treasured possessions including her pet owl Athena (rescued in Greece and now stuffed) opened in March and was closed by coronavirus the same month. Belinda Beckett peeps beneath the dust sheets to shine new light on the Lady with the Lamp.

FELICIDADES

FLORENCE! 56 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

© Wellcome Library, London Wikimedia Commons CC BY 4.0

An Illustrated Report In The Times Made Florence A Media Star

A ‘DOWNTON ABBEY’ LIFESTYLE

Money, power and social standing. The Nightingale family had it in spades – servants and butlers for TWO family estates, Mayfair rooms for the London season, European travel – baby Florence was named after her Italian birth city. Home-schooled in England by her father who believed in education for women, up to a point, she was an accomplished mathematician, fluent in four languages and determined, at 17, never to marry or lead the life of the idle rich. Her parents were equally convinced that she should, if only to quash her ideas of becoming a nurse, work fit only for servants! Florence rejected all suitors until they gave in and handed her a comfortable annuity. At 33, after four months training in Germany, she became Superintendent of a Harley Street hospital for ‘Sick Gentlewomen’.

Strong females run in the family. Helena BonhamCarter is her first cousin three times removed.

MEDIA STAR

An illustrated article in The Times turned Florence into the Crimean War’s poster nurse overnight.

‘She is a ministering angel’, eulogised the flowery report ‘and as her slender form glides quietly along each corridor, every poor fellow’s face softens with gratitude at the sight of her… with a little lamp in her hand, making her solitary rounds.’

It was the first war with correspondents and artists at the front, and civilians back home lapped up the coverage. The Lady with the Lamp, a light in the darkness for soldiers at war, struck a national chord and she attained something close to sainthood in Britain.

Florence wouldn’t have appreciated the attention. She hated having photographs taken or her portrait painted and had no time for sentimentality and hyperbole.

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Nightingale Pioneered Infographics

GIVING THE ARMY ITS MARCHING ORDERS

When Florence and her team of 38 female volunteers hit the hospital at Scutari, British Army bigwigs were appalled. “The petticoat imperium in the medical imperio,” fumed Sir John Hall, Chief MO. The nurses were horrified too, by the state of the place. Straw covering the floors to soak up the blood, scant supplies, dirty linen, dirty water, rats…

More soldiers were dying from infection than battle wounds due to poor care delivered by overworked staff in the face of official indifference.

‘The very first requirement in a hospital is that it should do the sick no harm’, Nurse Nightingale insisted.

She raided the stores, went over heads to her friend the British War Secretary for fresh supplies and had the British Sanitary Commission over to install proper ventilation and sanitation.

The indignant Sir John reported: ‘Miss Nightingale shows an ambitious struggling after power inimical to the true interests of the medical department.’

Nightingale’s Nurses cut the hospital death rate from 60 to 2% and hand washing became de rigeur, regardless of rank, under the iron rule of Matron Florence who stated: ‘I attribute my success to this – I never gave or took any excuse’.

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WRITING A BEST SELLER

Despite the dry title, Notes on Nursing: What it Is, and What it Is Not (1865) was a book everyone wanted to read. It was written by the celebrated Lady with the Lamp! Decades ahead of its time, it covered mental health, alternative therapies and communications skills as well as basic home nursing. It is still essential reading for student nurses today, in print or on Kindle.

After the war Nightingale visited almost every hospital in Europe and filled 16 volumes with her findings. Her Notes on Hospitals informed hospital design for the next century. A stickler for data collection, she also pioneered the first medical infographics, using pie charts and graphs to provide clear evidence that more soldiers were dying from poor hygiene than war. ‘To understand God’s thought, we must study statistics,’ she said.

PIONEERING MODERN NURSING

Nurses had a poor image in Victorian times, wickedly caricatured in the figure of Mrs. Gamp, the drunken and incompetent nurse in Charles Dickens’ Martin Chuzzlewit.

Nightingale Nurses, uniformed in starched white aprons and mob caps, elevated nursing from servants’ work to a profession.

The Nightingale Training School opened at St Thomas’ Hospital in 1860, deploying fully-fledged nurses around the world. Today it is also attached to King’s College London, with a grander title, and the Florence Nightingale Medal is still the highest international nursing distinction.

Lady With The Lamp Lithograph By Henrietta Rae @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 59

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PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Despite being a female role model, Nightingale was often scathing about her sex. She thought men had done more to further her goals, writing, ‘I have never found one woman who has altered her life by one iota for me or my opinions,’ and ‘Women have no sympathy and my experience of women is almost as large as Europe’.

She railed against women’s rights ‘when it urges women to do all that men do, merely because men do it, and without regard to whether this is the best that women can do’ stating that by trying to be men ‘women doctors have only succeeded in being third-rate men.’

Lytton Strachey, author of Eminent Victorians, was not alone in finding her ‘personally intolerable although admirable in her achievements’. ‘A demon possessed her,’ he wrote. ‘Now demons, whatever else they may be, are full of interest. In the real Miss Nightingale there was more that was interesting than in the legendary one; there was also less that was agreeable.’

ROYAL FAVOURITE

Queen Victoria rewarded Nightingale’s wartime service with a bespoke gold and diamond medal sent out to the front with a letter stating: ‘It will be a very great satisfaction to me when you return at last to these shores, to make the acquaintance of one who has set so bright an example to our sex.’

King Edward VII, was also a fan, awarding her his new Order of Merit – the first woman to receive the honour.

Barbie With The Lamp: Nurse Nightingale In Authentic Victorian Uniform, Launched This International Women’s Day

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THE NIGHTINGALE EFFECT

Portrait Of One Tough Lady By Henry Hering, 1860, London National Portrait Gallery

Florence Nightingale had a hand in most of Britain’s health-related legislation for the last half of the 19th century, pushing through compulsory sanitation in private homes, introducing trained nurses to workhouses, campaigning for the abolition of prostitution laws and knocking healthcare for all classes of society into shape. She lived to see 90. It must have been all that hand washing.

Her legacy continues today in the NHS Nightingale at London’s ExCel Centre, converted in nine

days into the world’s largest critical care unit for coronavirus patients.

Prince Charles who opened the 4,000-bed hospital by video link in his first ‘virtual’ royal engagement commented: “The lady with the lamp brought hope and healing to thousands in their darkest hour. In this dark time this place will be a shining light.” i Her bicentennial exhibition, Nightingale in 200 Objects, People & Places, can be viewed online at www.florence-nightingale.co.uk/200exhibits/

The Nightingale Effect Lives On In London’s New NHS Nightingale Hospital For Coronavirus Patients

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GOLDEN MILE Contemporary-style south-facing villa in one of the most exclusive gated communities in Las Lomas del Marbella Club. Ref. ES11504

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Offices on Marbella’s Golden Mile at Puente Romano and opposite the Marbella Club hotel Tel. (+34) 952 863 750 info@panorama.es www.panorama.es

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50

YEARS OF

PUERTO BANÚS

© Shutterstock

What started as the dream of a Madrid property developer has since become one of the most luxurious marinas in the Mediterranean – and an enduring icon of Marbella. This month, Puerto Banús celebrates its 50th anniversary and in the process looks back at a glamorous half-century as an international beacon of yachting, shopping, dining and nightlife. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY @PUERTOBANUS & KEVIN HORN

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T

he story of Puerto Banús is intricately connected to that of Marbella itself, for this marina famous around the Mediterranean and beyond has its roots in the very process that gave birth to the concept of this town as the centre of a glamorous resort destination. In a way, the port is an extension of the Golden Mile, the natural culmination of a process of gentrification that began with the founding of the original Marbella Club by Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe and the discovery of Marbella’s potential by Ricardo Soriano.

It is this Hispano-German aristocratic link that lies at the foundation of the

town’s rise to international prominence, and its evolution from a village of fishermen and farmers to the kind of place that came to attract the world’s tycoons, celebrities, socialites and film stars. Make no mistake, Marbella was an A-list destination in the 1950s and 60s frequented by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot, Sean Connery and many more. By 1965, it had become one of a select number of beauty spots on the world map that attracted the jet-set, and as the area developed and became ever more sophisticated, the need for a yacht harbour became increasingly evident.

The iconic charm of Spain’s most glamorous marina

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© Shutterstock

Kitty Spencer, the new face of Puerto Banús

THE DREAM OF JOSÉ BANÚS

Puerto José Banús, as it is officially called, is named after the man who first dreamed about its possibility, and then made it a reality. José Banús was a successful property developer, one of the leading constructors in Spain and creator of much of the real estate in Madrid and Marbella, and had played an important role in the rapid expansion of the country’s capital. In the latter years he became more closely involved with Marbella, where he will always be known for the chapter in its evolution that truly cemented its status: Puerto Banús.

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The path to the creation of the marina was not always easy, as not everyone believed in its necessity. There were those who realised that it would lead Marbella to grow, receive more visitors and burst the private bubble of the privileged few who had had it all to themselves. However, by the late sixties Marbella had passed this phase and was ready for the next step in its evolution, so plans were drawn up and Noldi Schreck, the Swiss-Mexican architect responsible for the Marbella Club, was commissioned to design a yacht harbour and leisure area worthy of the newly-emerging Marbella.

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AN IDYLLIC VILLAGE ON THE MEDITERRANEAN Used to constructing contemporary high-rise buildings, José Banús had originally wanted to create Puerto Banús in a similar style, but Noldi Schreck and his assistant, a young architect named Marcos Saínz, convinced him to change course and follow a design that was more in harmony with the natural

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and cultural setting. The result was an organically flowing, low-rise ‘village’ in the classic Andalusian style, white-plastered and charming, with terracotta rooftiles, a maze of pathways and intimate little squares beyond the frontline facing the yacht harbour.

The initial plan was

more elaborate, featuring also canals that would have made Banús a ‘little Venice’, but its developer returned to a simpler version and gave the green light for the construction of the marina that has been such a familiar part of the Marbella landscape for the past 50 years. The opening, in May 1970, was

a grand event, celebrated in suitable style with a lavish party that saw hundreds of waiters serve a veritable feast to an A-list of 1,700 celebrities including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco, future Spanish King Juan Carlos and Princess Sofia of Greece, Brigitte Bardot, Liza Minneli, Roman Polanski, the Aga Khan, Hugh Hefner, Dr Christiaan Barnard, and many others. Julio Iglesias provided the live entertainment.

Š Pavel Lysenko / Shutterstock.com

Like a luxurious village on the Mediterranean

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50 YEARS OF GLAMOUR AND ENTERTAINMENT Noldi Schreck and his team had created the first port to be designed by a single architect, and he is remembered for this with a star on Puerto Banús’ Boulevard of Fame.

The marina he helped to give shape to subsequently became one of the glamour spots of the Mediterranean, home not only to large, luxurious oceangoing yachts and pleasure vessels owned by the likes of Saudi royalty, but also the site of fine dining restaurants, cafés, designer boutiques and jewellery stores, grand events, and a glamorous nightlife scene.

From the early days, when the likes of James Hunt, Sean Connery and Joan Collins could be seen rubbing shoulders with

Spanish and Middle Eastern royalty, to more recent times when popstars, footballers such as David Beckham and Sergio Ramos, as well as a host of other celebrities frequent ‘the port’, Puerto Banús has continued to exert a pull. It is a place where beautiful yachts, cars and people come together, a glitzy world of jewellery, designer fashion and revelry, and in so doing also a destination that has moved with the times.

Over five million people visit the port every year, and it has expanded to become a residential and shopping destination between the Golden Mile and Nueva Andalucía, home also to one of the most impressive El Corte Inglés department stores in Spain.

The British model in the glamorous streets of Puerto Banús

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Kitty Spencer at the official launch of Puerto Banús 50

PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Like Marbella itself, and indeed all the world, Puerto Banús has had its challenges, its ups and downs, but it remains the reference point in the region and a Mediterranean beacon. In the wake of the financial crisis, Qatari investor Sheikh Abdullah Ben Nasser Al-Thani promoted the creation of a new centre-point, a modern marina at La Bajadilla on Marbella’s own shoreline, but a variety of problems ensured that this €400 million project did not come to fruition, and so Puerto Banús remains the jewel in the crown of the Costa del Sol. This, and the fact that one of Europe’s most iconic marinas turns 50 in 2020, forms parts of a series of celebrations and a reinvigorated branding and market positioning campaign aimed at cementing the port’s prominence and ensuring its continued appeal among a younger audience. Lady Kitty Spencer, the niece of Princess Diana and a leading British fashion model, is the face of this campaign, which kicked off with a lavish launch party that relived the halcyon days of Marbella. The project also seeks to cement relationships with the many top international luxury brands present in the port, create international events, and rejuvenate an icon of glamour now celebrating 50 year on the world podium, and looking forward to 50 more as it welcomes new generations to its shores. i www.puerto-banus.com @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 73

the process of gaining knowledge or skill from seeing, feeling, or doing.

In the last 30 years, we have seen, we have felt and we have done so much.

We have lived through two crises.

We have felt the consequences in our sector and also in the society in which we live and work.

Even so, we have been busy, we have launched projects in the middle of the storm and we have brought them to fruition.

This time, it will be no different. We will continue adding to our experience and we will remain faithful to our essence.

Seeing what surrounds us, studying it, analysing it.

Feeling so many losses, human and social. Being more empathetic than ever.

And above all, doing what we do best; ensuring that our large family, be they investors, partners or clients; emerge ever stronger.

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I used to have a cruise logbook with the entry, “Anchored off Madeira today. Took tender ashore to Funchal. Beautiful town, full of flowers and history. Must go back.” Or something like that.

The logbook filled up and was put I know not where, but I never forgot Madeira.

T

hen a friend went to live there, and I did go back, but not before I read up on the islands’ history. If you know your apostrophes you’ll note Madeira is not just one island. There are two – Madeira and the smaller Porto Santo, discovered in 1419 by two Portuguese vessels on a voyage of discovery under the order of Prince Henry the Navigator.

Madeira was quickly settled and sugar cane planted on the volcanic slopes, most of the workers being slaves from Africa. By the end of the century Madeira was the largest producer of sugar in the world, and remained so until Brazil took over. But by then Madeira was awash in wine, which was carried to foreign shores by vessels which found Madeira a useful stop being some way out in the Atlantic.

The again, of course, it was America that was on the other side. Enter Christopher Columbus, who first went to Porto Santo in 1478 to buy sugar. He also married the governor’s daughter, not then, but after 1492 when he had stopped in Madeira on his voyages of discovery.

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Aerial view of the Santana region, Madeira

MAGNIFICENT

MADEIRA

WORDS DAVID WISHART PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID J WHYTE @LINKSLAND.COM AND SHUTTERSTOCK

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back to CONTENTS Camara de Lobos

So Madeira became a stepping stone to the new world. But it was more than that, it was a sub-tropical paradise where people put down their own roots and built a delightful little country, which is today an autonomous region of Portugal.

It’s actually quite a bit south of Portugal, in fact on the same latitude as Casablanca, and these days just a short flight from Lisbon where the flight crews of the national airline TAP charm passengers with style and service. The better-dressed passengers, who engage with one another warmly, are mostly Madeirenses, and clearly happy to be going home.

And so they should be, for the fun starts soon after the landing, where the runway is not unlike the challenging strip at St Helena. Here you’ll find one of two statues of footballer and local boy Cristiano Ronaldo (the other of four metres height is near the harbour) and an open-air departure terrace (signposted as the smoking area) such as airports used to have, complete with bar and superb for watching close-up takeoffs and landings. This is not Heathrow.

Ignore the taxi drivers who charge 40 Euros one way into Funchal, and take the bus – 8 Euros return! There’s a bus stop almost across the road from the island’s most famous hotel, Reid’s, and just before that, the Savoy Palace, where I stayed. What a place this is – brand new, with big rooms, spacious balconies and wonderful sea views.

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Camara de Lobos

Street Restaurants: amnat30 / Shutterstock.com

While many visitors rent cars, and deal with the twisting roads and endless tunnels, you can get around very well on local buses, as well as the hop on-hop off variety and by taking tours.

Many are there to hike the levadas, irrigation channels which bring water down the steep volcanic slopes and are key to the cultivation of grapes and much, much more.

But you must make the short trip to Camara de Lobos, where Winston Churchill painted the dreamy little bay below his easel. It’s a big busier these days but still a delightful place for a stroll among the fishing boats and along alleys lined with bars and restaurants, where the fish to go for is the black scabbard, a deep sea dweller with a convenient habit of swimming near the surface at night.

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Aerial view of Funchal with traditional cable car

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Faja dos Padres: ColorX / Shutterstock.com

In fact there are many inlets along the coast worth a look, and more, sometimes via a road climbing into the hills where stupendous views appear. If you’ve travelled the volcanic islands from St Helena to the Canaries you will know the scene, and how dramatic it can be, although not always for the faint-hearted.

Another outing not to be missed is to Faja dos Padres. This is on a thin strip of shore below towering cliffs of 300 metres, settled long ago by Jesuits, then abandoned, and now a special place for a good lunch, or an overnight escape.

Getting there is by a cable car, a sleek new cabin as used on ski slopes.

Below is a collection of nine rustic

little villas hanging over the sea. They have a bed, small kitchen and balcony you won’t want to leave. At the back is a communal BBQ, plus well tended plantations of fruit including clusters of grapes which end up in a fine old wine cellar that could date from Jesuit times.

Here you can try a delicious Madeira wine, perhaps an aperitif before lunch nearby.

The restaurant, overlooking the sea, might look like something Robinson Crusoe and Man Friday have just knocked up, but it is served by a kitchen as well equipped as they come.

The cable car makes its last run early in the evening, leaving the Faja dos Padres overnighters with just the sound of the sea and the setting sun.

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In Funchal, meanwhile, restaurants are gearing up for another busy night, particularly in the Old Town where narrow streets, cobbles and painted doors buzz with places to eat and tourists, some of them in groups from cruise ships. There was a big German vessel in port, which disgorged a bewildering number of dumpy women in tight jean shorts.

We were at the Taberna Ruel, where Ricardo showed off his party trick – opening a bottle of sparkling wine with a big knife, such as Napoleon’s officers used to do with their sabres. Then the food – fantastic! Fish of course, turbot, tuna and succulent, fresh octopus in olive oil, with wine from the Duoro.

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The city of Funchal, Madeira

Funchal Botanical Gardens

Bay of Funchal, Madeira

So, what else is in Madeira?

Funchal is a pleasant, handsome town although possibly less so in 1954 when the writer Ernest Hemingway’s ship called here en route to Cuba. The captain had been there 30 times without going ashore but he did get off this time with Hemingway’s wife, and together they took the famous basket ride from the village of Monte into town. These days there is a cable car to take you up. Hemingway may have taken a short stroll but either way there is a restaurant in town – a very good one – called after him, and I also dined well at Savoy Palaces Galáxia Skyfood rooftop restaurant.

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And there’s golf, good enough to have attracted David Whyte, who has played, and photographed, most of the best courses in the world, from Pebble Beach to Turnberry in Scotland. He believes that Madeira’s climate and old world charm make it ideal as a golf retreat, where holistic and golf workshops can replace stress with a relaxing swing. See his website www.linksland.com This is no links golf of course, far from it. But while they fall into the category of sporty with plenty of hill shots, they are the best of this variety I have come across. Good holiday golf, you could say. I

Santo Da Serra Golf Club

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took buggies, but many did not.

We played at Santo da Serra, which has hosted the Madeira Open, and Palheiro, and at the latter had a delightful lunch.

The courses were in excellent condition, offering many enjoyable holes and some challenging shots.

There’s also golf on the Seve Ballesteros course at Porto Santo, a track that’s popular with visitors from Denmark, who are also attracted by beaches of nine kms of golden sand. It takes two hours to get there on a ferry from Funchal.

Palheiro Golf

Blandy’s Wine Lodge

Traditional Madeira Dish

Now, the wine, which really put Madeira on the map. Blandy's Wine Lodge near the port is the place to go. This company has been producing Madeira wine for 200 years, and after an excellent tour and tasting, I walked down a passageway used since the very beginning to roll barrels of wine down to the dock, the ships and thirsty sailors.

Much off it went to Britain, and still does, but America has always soaked up barrels of Madeira, and it was the toast of choice in the White House on July 4, 1776, when George Washington and company hailed the new America.

Finally, interesting to know that an opened bottle of Madeira will not spoil, unlike port or sherry. It’s all in the process, in which Madeira wine is oxidised. Sounds odd, but I can assure you it still tastes just fine.

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PININFARINA 90 YEARS OF ADDING STYLE TO THE WORLD

Say the magical word ‘Pininfarina’ and it conjures up images of beautifully styled cars, yachts, high-speed trains and many other kinds of luxury items. The prototypes and concept studies penned by this legendary design studio from Turin have caught the eye and captured the imagination for decades, allowing people to dream and imagine a more beautiful world.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PININFARINA

A classic Pininfarina design study

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Pininfarina and Excem Real Estate are creating a ground-breaking new luxury development near Estepona

P

ininfarina is quintessentially Italian – part of that nation’s unique relationship with design, engineering and handicraft.

And yet, quite apart from having given shape to such legendary Italian marques as Ferrari, Lancia, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Fiat and De Tomaso, Pininfarina’s distinct ‘Torino touch’ of genius has found its way around the world, providing the wings on which many other multinational brands have taken off.

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THE SPIRIT OF STYLE

Italians are famously lovers of the beautiful things in life: art, music, food, architecture, landscaping, furniture, décor, fast cars, power boats and yes, let’s call it the human form. This passion for beauty is expressed in many ways that reinforce it, from music to art and design, but also technical craftmanship, for this is a northern Italian tradition with deep roots which blends Mediterranean flair and creativity with a German-style penchant for precision engineering.

The Ferra building in Singapore

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The outcome has been a rich outpouring of some of the world’s beautiful creations: the Villa Palladio; the violins of Stradivarius; the operas of Verdi and Puccini; the fashion of Armani; the racing jewels of Enzo Ferrari, and the man who styled them, Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina. An automobile designer by trade, he founded a coachbuilding company in 1930 that would revolutionise its genre and emerge from the Second World War to produce many of the finest vehicles ever seen.

Pininfarina extends its creativity to kitchen and bar designs

The iconic Cisitalia 2020

Luxurious modern speedboat design by Pininfarina

Airport tower in Istanbul

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The Lancia Aurelia, an Italian classic

BUILDING DREAM CARS

Before long, Battista Farina was giving shape to dreams, creating gorgeous coachwork for halcyon brands such as Isotta Fraschini, Hispano-Suiza and Alfa Romeo, helping Lancia to pioneer the world’s first monocoque (single-body car structure) design, and also straying beyond Italy to create svelte bodywork for the likes of Cadillac and Rolls Royce. After World War II, Pininfarina truly emerged into the light with unforgettable modern creations for Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Maserati and the iconic Cisitalia 202.

Now, British, French and American carmakers beat a path to the design studio in Turin, for Farina and his team had a magic that was hard to copy, let alone better. It was the beginning of an international relationship that continues to this day, having produced such classics as the Nash-Healey Roadster, the Nash

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Wind tunnel testing for a Maserati Birdcage

The Maserati Birdcage 75th anniversary edition Pininfarina Battista – ode to 90 years since the founding of the company

Rambler Palm Beach and a simply stunning 1963 Chevrolet Corvette design.

Cadillac started a long-lasting love affair with Pininfarina in the 1950s, which would eventually lead to the 1980s Cadillac Allanté – whose Italian-built bodywork was shipped to the USA for assembly.

Pininfarina played a vital part in the classic era of car design, creating many of the timeless works of art from the 1950s to 1970s that now fetch millions at auction. The very look of Ferrari, Maserati, Lancia and Alfa Romeo is in large part derived from Pininfarina’s drawing boards, from the iconic Alfa Romeo Spider to the Ferrari Daytona. It was in the 1960s that the company also started producing bodywork on a large scale, yet the spirit of its pioneering creation in automotive design remained an iconic feature throughout the following decade. In the 1980s, trains, trams, yachts and industrial design were added to car styling, thus widening the scope for Pininfarina’s creativity.

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A WORLD OF DESIGN Sleek high-speed trains, modern electric trams, bicycles, dreamlike super yachts and powerboats started coming out of the state-of-the-art design studio in Turin, including everything from Coca Cola vending machines and interior styling concepts to the detailing of the innovative Juventus Arena in Turin. In the meantime, the company continued giving form to dream cars while also creating successful mid-range models for Peugeot, Volvo, Ford, Bentley and Rolls Royce, and expanding its market into Asia, where it has styled Mitsubishi jeeps and Hyundai cars.

Now, as it celebrates its 90th birthday on 23rd May, Pininfarina styles Gorenje kitchen appliances and even the Olympic flame and medals, as well as luxury residence towers in Florida, the Magnum Marine 80 series of hyper power boats, the Ferrari California and – to mark its 90th anniversary – the Pininfarina Battista, an all-electric supercar named in honour of the company’s founder. This beautiful sports car – the latest inspired creation in a long list stretching back to 1930 – is a fitting homage to the man who founded the world’s most famous design company, and the subsequent generations that have continued a proud tradition of innovative, eye-catching Italian design which embodies the nation’s eye for beauty in a harmony of artistic craftsmanship, creativity and technological know-how.

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Creating the Olympic torch Pininfarina consulted on the design of the new Juventus Arena

The interior styling of commercial airliners

The new project will feature a state-of-the-art level of design and execution

PININFARINA COMES TO THE COSTA DEL SOL The famous name, in collaboration with Excem Real Estate, has produced the architectural and interior styling for a top-ofthe-range contemporary residential complex that will set a new standard in the Estepona area, as well as the Costa del Sol as a whole – adding Pininfarina’s unique brand of refinement to 21st century living spaces set within a 3,000m2

development surrounded by 20,000m2 of private green zones. A high level of sustainability has been built into the design, which employs the creative consultant’s specialist expertise to ensure that everything, from lighting and perfectly fitting doors to seamless home control, multi-room audio and security, is state-of-the-art.

So this May, as you envisage stylish cars,

modern trains, attractive industrial design and mouth-watering yachts moored in the marina, think of the unique designled company – the brand behind the world’s famous brands – that has worked for decades to add beauty and a sense of fun to the world around us, and let’s celebrate its creative genius. i www.pininfarina.it/en/

Expect the amazing from the Pininfarina-designed luxury development on the New Golden Mile

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the trend

WE INVITE YOU TO MAKE THE MOST OF TIME AT HOME WITH EVERYTHING FROM TOP STREAMED FILMS AND SERIES TO PODCASTS AND BOOKS. WE ALSO CONNECT WITH LOCAL STUDENT JOFFREE KING, WHO GIVES US INFORMATION ON HOW TEENS ARE HELPING OTHERS DURING THE CURRENT HEALTH CRISIS, AND WE CHECK OUT SOME COOL EVENTS IN SPAIN AND ABROAD.

GO TO PAGE 124 FOR TOP PODCASTS

GO TO PAGE 102 GREAT FILMS TO VIEW AT HOME

GO TO PAGE 110 FOR TOP NETFLIX SERIES

GO TO PAGE 138 TO SEE WHAT’S COOL IN SPAIN AND ABROAD

CINEMA SERIES PODCASTS READING 102 Great Films to View at Home 110 Top Netflix Series to Catch 118 Hot HBO Series to Watch 124 Top Podcasts 128 Must-Read Books during Lockdown 132 Teens Lend a Helping Hand 138 What’s Cool in Spain and Abroad

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TOP FILMS

TOATSTREAM HOME

The arrival of COVID-19 has affected the cinematic industry in a major way, with some blockbusters (including the latest Fast & Furious and James Bond films) having been pushed forward for various months. The good news is that many producers have made their new and recent films available online via streaming. These are just a few that will make the weekend a little more pleasurable. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BAD BOYS FOR LIFE

The first two Bad Boys films starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence were as action-packed as they were side-splittingly funny. The third, touted as the ‘last ride’ of the two hilarious protagonists, can be streamed on a number of platforms, including YouTube, Amazon, Google Play, the Apple Store, Vudu, and Microsoft.

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FROZEN II AND ONWARD

Frozen II is a massive hit with little kids across the globe, so it’s good news that those who weren’t able to watch the film at the movies can now catch all of Anna and Elsa’s adventures online via Disney+. The platform is also streaming Onward – a fantasy-themed film that was just starting to screen in theatres when the pandemic hit. Onward is a Pixar Animation Studios film that follows the lives of two teenaged elf brothers – Ian and Barley – who embark on an adventure to spend just one more day with their late father. The brothers are voiced by Chris Pratt and Tom Holland.

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NEVER RARELY SOMETIMES ALWAYS This indie film is heartwarming and gently humorous all at once. Directed by upcoming filmmaker Eliza Hittman, it tells the tale of Autumn – a teenager facing an unintended pregnancy. “This is the most amazing sound you will hear in your life,” says the doctor as she does an ultrasound and Autumn hears her baby’s heartbeat – something that for her, is the saddest of sounds. She doesn’t feel ready to be a mum but doesn’t know where to turn and has nobody to support her as she struggles to make a very difficult decision.

THE GENTLEMEN

Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen is a crime thriller starring Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Hugh Grant, and Jeremy Strong.

McConaughey plays an American expatriate who amasses a fortune by building a marijuana empire in London. When word gets out that he’s looking to retire, it doesn’t take long for competing drug lords to try and steal his throne.

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DOLITTLE

We were really excited about this. It seemingly had all the ingredients required to make it a success – the Dr. Dolittle narrative, cute animals, and the cutest of them all, Robert Downey Jr. in his first starring role since the Marvel films. In fact, the film was panned by critics, but we don’t care. This will be on the top of our weekend viewing list.

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EMMA

Anna Taylor-Joy plays jovial trickster Emma in the latest film adaptation of this Jane Austen classic. Female director Autumn de Wilde graces the film with cinematographic splendour and captures the feminist undercurrents that run through all of Austen’s work.

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THE INVISIBLE MAN

We are so excited about this super tense thriller, which sees Elisabeth Moss take on an invisible enemy. It is actually a spin on the classic sci-fi novel by H.G. Wells, since it takes the spotlight off the invisible character and shines it on a woman who is subject to his cruelty. Also available on all online stores.

THE WAY BACK

Pull out the tissues; this tearjerker is the story of an alcoholic basketball coach struggling to come to terms with his failed marriage. The story is very close to home for its protagonist – Ben Affleck – who has openly talked about his struggle against alcoholism and his regret at his own divorce. e

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NETFLIX SERIES TO BINGE ON

Who would have thought we would be in such great need of entertainment – and plenty of it – as we have during the past couple of months? Just in case you haven’t signed up to Netflix yet, these are just a few reasons why you might consider doing so. We present you with our recommended viewing list. We won’t include Sex Education because that series is so awesome, we assume you’ve already seen it! COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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THE STRANGER Based on Harlan Coben’s best-selling novel, this series is an intricate mystery centred on a stranger who makes it her mission to go around town revealing its inhabitants’ juiciest secrets. Sometimes,

the Stranger blackmails people for cash; at other times, she lends a hand and seeks to cure injustice. One day, she approaches upstanding citizen Adam and tells him that his wife, Corinne, has faked a pregnancy.

When Adam confronts Corinne, she admits her lie, then disappears the next day. Adam embarks on a search for the Stranger, who is the key to the mystery that has uprooted his stable family life.

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TIGER KING: MURDER, MAYHEM, AND MADNESS Social media users know they cannot log onto their Twitter account these days without viewing dubious photos of Joe Exotic: the ‘star’ of the utterly bizarre docu-series, Tiger King. Joe, a tiger breeder and private zookeeper in Oklahoma, is easily one of the most eccentric characters you will come across. This show centres on his

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extremely vicious relationship with his enemy, Carole Baskin, an animal rights activist and founder of Big Cat Rescue.

Joe, currently behind bars, tried to have Carole assassinated and continually accused her of having murdered her husband and fed him to her big cats.

Now here’s the rub: Carole is easily as ‘unique’ and fascinating as Joe himself!

OZARK SEASON 3

American crime drama, Ozark, is back for its third season. The series follows a couple (Marty and Wendy, played by fabulous actors, Jason Bateman and Laura Linney) who are forced to relocate to the Ozarks after becoming embroiled in a money laundering scheme. In Season 3, we see Wendy take the reins as the manager of the riverboat casino. Marty has been struggling mentally since the death of Mason and wants to leave the country and start over in Australia. Wendy, however, is keen on capitalising on the contacts she made when helping the mafia open the casino and she isn’t ready to budge just yet.

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ELITE SEASON 3

What seemed to be just another teen series has turned into a fantastic thriller focused on a group of highschool students at a posh Madrid school.

Nothing is as it seems; beautiful, wealthy, and talented, the students nevertheless hide secrets related to murder, drugs, and deceit. In Season 3, the audience continues to chase justice for the death of young student, Marina, and faces another potential death.

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SIGNAL

communicate with the detective If you love detective cases and and solve cold cases that have time travel, then this is your perfect been left on the backburner. match. The 16-episode series Their actions have an irrevocable follows a group of investigators effect on the timeline, however, who find an old walkie talkie and they must find a way to save belonging to a detective from themselves from the serious 1986. They discover that through consequences of their interference this device, they can actually with supernatural powers. e

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HBO SERIES TO WATCH OUT FOR IN MAY Marisa Cutillas previews a handful of series that should be top scorers on HBO very soon.

THE PLOT AGAINST AMERICA

If you love historical dramas with a dose of fantasy, then this series will be right up your street.

The Plot Against America, based on the Philip Roth bestseller, imagines what would have happened if World War II had ended differently. The story is told through the eyes of a humble Jewish family that watches the political rise of Charles Lindbergh – an aviator and xenophobic populist who persuades his country to embrace fascism. The series was created by David Simon and Ed Burns of The Wire and Generation Kill – two highly acclaimed shows.

Starring in The Plot Against America are John Turturro, Winona Ryder and Zoe Kazan.

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THE NEW POPE

If you never thought a Pope could be quite so dashing, think again.

This gem stars John Malkovich and Jude Law, no less, so it will make for some drool-friendly viewing (who’s bringing the popcorn and Coke?).

The New Pope is a follow up to The Young Pope

by Oscar-winner Paolo Sorrentino. It delves deep into the inner workings of the Vatican, exploring the flaws and virtues that unite ‘holy men’ to the rest of humanity. It picks up where the first series left off, with Pope Pius XIII (Jude Law) having recently fallen into a coma. While he is ill, the Secretary of State manages to place a charming, sophisticated new candidate in power – Sir John Brannox (John Malkovich), who will soon be known as Pope John Paul III. Sorentino himself wrote the series alongside Umberto Contarello and Stefano Bises. The series also stars Silvio Orlando, Javier Cámara, Cécile de France, Ludivine Sagnier and Maurizio Lombardi.

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THE UNDOING

From Emmy®, Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning director Susanne Bier and the Emmy®-winning creator of Big Little Lies, David E. Kelley comes The Undoing – a drama starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant. It tells the story of a couple who are living the good life until a violent death and a chain of terrible revelations change their lives forever. The series also stars the magnificent Donald Sutherland and talented American Horror Story whiz, Lily Rabe.

I KNOW THIS MUCH IS TRUE

From highly renowned director and writer, Derek Cianfrance (Drive, Blue Valentine) comes I Know This Much is True – a drama about identical twin brothers, Dominick and Thomas. The series takes us through the different stages of the twins’ lives, beginning with the present (when they are middle-aged) and taking us to their childhood through flashbacks that explain their differences and tensions. Also starring Melissa Leo, Imogen Poots, and Archie Panjabi.

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WE’RE HERE

Like The Undoing, this series doesn’t have a precise release date, but we do know it will be out during the spring season. This one is a comedy with plenty of punch. It covers the ins and outs of a one-night-only drag show participated in by small-town folk across the U.S. “Drag is about confidence and self-expression,” says Nina Rosenstein of HBO. In each episode, well known drag queens Bob, Eureka O’Hara, and Shangela Laquifa Wadley will teach their new ‘drag daughters’ how to shake their tail feathers and get noticed nationwide! e

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TOP PODCASTS

TO LOSE YOURSELF TO Just about the best ‘gadget’ I ever invested in was my new pair of Apple Airpods. They make it so easy to lose yourself while seemingly ‘being there’ though they have admittedly got me in trouble more than once when I should have been listening and I actually was listening… not to the person before me but rather to Aviccii or another of my favourite artists. Airpods also facilitate another big hobby for millions of people around the world – listening to podcasts of which there are literally millions to choose from. Podcasts cover just about every subject you can think of – from crime to music, theatre to history. This is just a small compilation of über-popular ones you might enjoy listening to while going for a walk or catching transport (when COVID-19 is done, dusted, and defeated, of course).

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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FAKE HEIRESS

If you enjoy amazing real-life stories and con artists pique your interest, this one is for you. It is the true story of Anna Delvey – the fake socialite who conned friends to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars by claiming she was an heiress.

Anna – whose real name was Anna Sorokin. She even bled an intern for Vanity Fair dry, enjoying a five-star holiday on the young journalist’s tab.

The result was a famous article that chronicles the lies Sorokin told to lead a lifestyle way beyond her means. This podcast makes things a little more interesting by combining reporting and dramatised scenes. The story is a stark reminder of how easy it is to fool people by creating an aura of competence and prestige.

BEATLES CITY

For some of us, there will never be another four quite this fab.

This podcast goes into the early days of the biggest rock and roll band ever, talking to individuals who knew them before they became famous. We hear from people who knew John Lennon when he was a child and student, visit the Kensington living room-turned-recording studio where the artists cut their first record, and make our way to the Cavern’s cellar nightclub, which saw the Beatles perform their earliest live gigs.

DRUNK WOMEN SOLVING CRIME

Crime stories are a highly popular genre in podcasts and on YouTube, but this show is quite original indeed, owing to its comedic element. The writers are comedians – three women to be exact – Hannah George, Catie Wilkins and Taylor Glenn, who get drunk and test out their detective skills by trying to solve true crime stories. Each episode lasts around an hour but they literally fly by. Be warned however: this series is highly addictive.

YOU’RE WRONG ABOUT

A fascinating podcast about how big media can turn stories on their head and interpret key historical events in a way that can actually be very unfair to those who actually lived through them. Writers Michael Hobbes and Sarah Marshall cover an array of topics (including the Challenger fiasco, the Tonya Harding story, and the O.J. Simpson trial, zeroing in on cultural issues and refusing to accept the narrative that the mainstream media has sold us.

13 MINUTES TO THE MOON SEASON 2

This is the sequel to the amazing Season 1, which detailed the triumphs and tragedies of the Apollo 11 mission. This time the focal point is Apollo 13, which blasted into space a year later. The podcast features a fantastic blend of new interviews and archives and includes the views of commander Jim Lovell. Apollo 13 is arguably one of the most dramatic missions ever, since an oxygen tank exploded, leading the three-astronaut team to race to find a way to get back home, fast. e

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NON-FICTION BOOKS ON PLAGUES,

VIRUSES AND EPIDEMICS

Films and books on plagues and viruses are logically more popular now than ever. If you are interested in the subject, you may enjoy the following reads.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

FLU

BY GINA KOLATA

Much has been written about the pandemic of 1918, the so-called ‘Spanish flu’, with many parallels being drawn between the wartime virus and what we are battling today. Some 50 million people died worldwide – making it one of the worst outbreaks in recent history.

The book details the main events of 1918 but also highlights other outbreaks such as those of 1976 and 1997. Its focus is on the efforts to find vaccines and cures to some of the most challenging viruses known to modern mankind.

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THE AMERICAN PLAGUE: THE UNTOLD STORY OF YELLOW FEVER, THE EPIDEMIC THAT SHAPED OUR HISTORY

BY MOLLY CALDWELL CROSBY

Journalist Molly Caldwell Crosby traces the source of the infectious disease known as ‘yellow fever’, which wiped out Memphis in Tennessee, taking the lives of various citizens and health professionals.

The year is 1878 and, as summer approaches, the outbreak begins to makes its presence felt.

The epidemic, says the author, “led to one of our greatest successes in medical history – Walter Reed’s work in Cuba that finally proved mosquitoes, not ‘miasma’ or filth, brought on a yellow fever season. In the end, his efforts led to the later development of a vaccine – the same one still in use today. But, like the work of countless doctors and nurses in Memphis, it came at a great price. The author states that at the time, no other disease had taken the lives of so many health professionals.

CHINA SYNDROME

BY KARL TARO GREENFELD

This page-turner focuses more on the political rather than the scientific forces at work during viral outbreaks. It was the first book to deal with the SARS epidemic; it delves into China’s culture of secrecy and argues that the outcome of not being completely honest from the outset is devastating on a global level. The author additionally points out the importance of clean, good living standards if this type of epidemic is to be avoided.

POX: AN AMERICAN HISTORY

BY MICHAEL WILLRICH

Pox tells the tale of the smallpox epidemic which plagued the United States in the early 20th century. The outbreak led the government to embark on a major paradigm shift in terms of its approach to public health. Vaccinations now became mandatory and the result was the birth of the anti-vax movement. A passage from the book states: “The critics of compulsory vaccination insisted that the liberty protected by the Constitution also encompassed the right of a free people to take care of their own bodies and children according to their own medical beliefs and consciences. It was a bold but deeply problematic claim. And it brought the opponents of compulsory vaccination into direct conflict with the agents of an emerging interventionist state.”

THE HOT ZONE

BY RICHARD PRESTON

Stephen King called this book “one of the most horrifying things I have ever read,” and many critics have agreed that it is truly chilling. It chronicles the history of ebola and other outbreaks, including those that have emerged from African rainforests. The book inspired the 1995 film Outbreak and the 2019 miniseries of the same name. It is a wakeup call to the complete paradigm shift that is necessary to reduce the frequency and likelihood of outbreaks. e

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BECAUSE

Communicating IS THE ONLY WAY TO EXIST

Let us be the voice of your company

UNA BUENA COMUNICACIÓN, LA MEJOR ESTRATEGIA Lo que no se comunica, no existe.

Plantear una buena estrategia en materia de comunicación puede suponer el éxito de una empresa.

Communication- Events- Advertising- Marketing Press Deparment- Social Media- Branded Content

www.carmenduran.com | T. +34 609 56 98 78

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HOW CAN

TEENS HELP DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS?

As I write this, it has been exactly one month since the official lockdown though many of us had already been lying low for longer. It is frustrating and difficult but my friends and I are making the most of it by video conferencing and playing online games when we have finished our online school tasks. For many older teens like myself, the toughest part of the lockdown is probably just that – the inability to play sport and hang around with our best mates. Many friends are also in the midst of IGSCEs and their IB programmes and they miss the one-on-one contact with teachers for support. WORDS JOFFREE KING

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H

owever, before we start feeling too sorry for ourselves, it is important to look at how teens across the globe are coping.

I decided to research and found that for some, the best way to get through this, is giving.

I discovered the story of a boy called Daniel Goldberg, a junior student-athlete at a highschool in Santa Barbara in the U.S. who (in March) created the website Zoomers to Boomers – a generational play on words that unites Gen Z (people born between 1997 and 2012) and Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964). The website invites older people living in Santa Barbara to fill out their grocery needs online. The next day, Daniel or one of his friends delivers the goods to their door.

The reason for Daniel’s visionary site was simple. He told local paper, Noozhawk, “The first week off school I was just spending time with siblings, and I was trying to follow all the regulations of isolate at home, don’t go out and spread anything around. I felt I wasn’t helping when there was help that was needed.”

That’s right – it took just one week of boredom for Daniel to dream of something that would go far beyond himself and his family. That’s what I call a winning way of negotiating life

and taking its biggest tragedies by the horns.

I know that in Spain, owing to the lockdown, we are not allowed to leave home at all. However, I began thinking of other ways that teens can help. One is to call neighbours and make sure they are alright. If there is an older person near you, you can find out if they are okay, if their grocery needs are met.

There are options you can share with them. For instance, El Corte Inglés home delivers, as do many restaurants. Research on the different available supermarkets and restaurants providing this service and let them know what you have found. There is also a new initiative you can check out at www. rastreadordevoluntarios.com where volunteers help neighbours with shopping, dog walking, or simply by providing some online company.

Some older people need help with online orders and payments.

If they are Viber or Facetime users, you can explain a few key steps with them online or even make the order on their behalf. You can also run through the steps with them – including opening an online supermarket account – which can be a bit more difficult than it seems as it can require verification and other steps you can help explain.

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The simple gift of your company can be majorly important at a time in which many are suffering from isolation and anxiety. If you know someone who feels panicky, let them know they can count on you when fear or loneliness sets in. You can even do a few breathing exercises together, using an app like Calm or Headspace if you are unfamiliar with controlled breathing. The latter is quite easy! Just blow your tummy up like a blowfish when you take air in, taking several seconds to inhale and even longer to exhale. That really stops anxiety in its tracks. I should know; I always use this technique before scary exams.

You can also help at home. Help your parents find ways to use all the

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produce at home so you don’t have to go out for new supplies so often. Yes, online shopping exists but you may have to wait a couple of weeks for groceries to arrive sometimes so it is important to make the most of what you already have. Don’t let one pepper or zucchini go to waste; use these veggies on homemade pizza or sautée them with a bit of oil and add a bit of lemon and salt to make them tastier.

If you have an allowance, you may choose to set aside part or all of it to help those battling the crisis.

Somehow this seems more appealing right now than saving for a Lego Starship Enterprise (yes, I still collect Lego, but I can always start saving for that later in the year).

Words are also powerful. If you know a healthcare worker, send them online thanks for all their hard work. They are putting their lives on the line for strangers; it is just about the most heroic act I could think of.

Finally, don’t forget you! I know it is tempting to sleep late and wake up later, do your online tasks from midday onwards, but it helps to have a routine similar to the one

you used to have. It also helps to sleep in line with your circadian rhythms. These tell us to feel sleepy when it is dark and alert in the daytime. Eat well, chill out, and make sure to talk to at least one person outside your home as often as you can. Soon, you will be able to connect in the very best way possible but for now, all that is virtual is real. e

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Exist to Create

BEOVISION HARMONY The ultimate cinematic audio-visual experience. bang-olufsen.com

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w THE TREND what’s cool

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WHAT’S COOL?

Global citizens may be homebound but one thing is for sure – confinement has only enhanced their creativity. We keep you posted on what’s trending in Spain and anywhere that people are showing how fascinating they can be! COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

TECH-INSPIRED DÉCOR BY BANG & OLUFSEN

Many people are using this time at home to give their properties a brand new look.

Bang & Olufsen is making it a little easier with audiovisual equipment that is as stunning to look at as it is functional.

Check out just a few of these über-cool designs. i www.bang-olufsen.es

138 / MAY 2020 WWW.ESSENTIALMAGAZINE.COM

AW LAB PRESENTS TWO NEW AVATARS FOR THEIR VRL GROUP AW LAB and its brand VRL has designed two original avatars to present their latest sportswear collection. The use of avatars represents the booming interest in technology but is also the result of the necessity to live and work differently in times of emergency.

The designs (both the avatars and clothing) exude modernity and vitality; we love them! i www.en.aw-lab.com

KAIKU CAFFÉ LATTE CELEBRATES ARTISTIC TALENT

Kaiku Caffé Latte has a new obsession: Talent Hunters – an incentive that brings together the creative minds behind Lulu View, Denim Souls, and Clara Ceramics to celebrate World Creativity Day on April 21. Kaiku hopes to share the amazing creations of a range of artists – in this case, three who are dominating the worlds of fashion, ceramics, and nail art! i www.kaikucaffelatte.com

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WORLD’S BEST VINEYARDS ANNOUNCES ONLINE EVENT

The World’s Best Vineyards 2020, due to take place in Sonoma County, California in July, will now become a virtual ceremony hosted on the same date. The organisers hope to spread a message of solidarity with the wine tourism community across the globe by announcing the best wine destinations in the world.

The World’s Best Vineyards website will soon reveal details about how guests from all over the world will be able to join the ceremony on July 13, 2020. i www.worldsbestvineyards.com

VACCINE FOR WORLD WAR III: TAKE A GUIDED TOUR ONLINE!

Nouvelle Vague Artspaces VR Gallery, Vaccine for World War III, is the result of an improvised reunion of a community of artists confronting challenging times.

The artists are offering VR solutions backed by digital tools to support the production of material under restrictions.

The tour features work by 13 artists from countries such as Iran, Mexico, Argentina, Canada, UK, France, Italy, and Spain – where the physical gallery is located. i Start Here: (Available until May 4)

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JAGUAR LAND ROVER CREATES BOARD GAME FOR FAMILIES

Straights & Corners is the name of a brand new game created by Jaguar for families in lockdown. All you need is dice, a printer, and scissors, so you can cut the Jaguar pawns for each family member.

Who will win the race in your family? i Download the game and rules on the following link.

GO TO GAME

LEARNING ABOUT WINE WITH THE FUERTE CONIL-RESORT

The Fuerte Group has been showing plenty of solidarity in these times, both directly and in subtle ways. Recently, José María Vela, Maître of the Fuerte-Conil Resort in Cádiz, held wine talks on his Instagram profile, sharing secrets on Andalusian wines such as fino and manzanilla. Stay tuned to our social media pages for more information on seminars and streamed events in Málaga and Andalucía. i www.instagram.com/fuertehoteles/

CYBEROBICS: VIRTUAL FITNESS PLATFORM OFFERS LIVE CLASSES FOR FREE!

Keeping fit during home confinement is key and virtual fitness platform, Cyberobics, is making it easier by offering its content for free until gyms in Spain open up again. Take part in over 100 live-streamed classes every week.To do so, follow these steps: 1. Go to www.cyberobics.com/es 2. Create an account and log in.

3. Enjoy your workout! i www.cyberobics.com

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d back to CONTENTS

the style

CHECK OUT THE VIEWS FROM THE STYLISHLY REFORMED VILLA AMAPOLA ON MARBELLA’S GOLDEN MILE, INSPIRE YOURSELF WITH SPRING DÉCOR IDEAS, SHOP ONLINE FOR ITEMS FROM CUSTO BARCELONA’S LATEST COLLECTION, AND KEEP YOUR PETS ENTERTAINED WITH GAMES AND TRAINING TIPS.

GO TO PAGE 162 FASHION

BY CUSTO

GO TO PAGE 158 SPRING DÉCOR PIECES

GO TO PAGE 170 TOYS, TRAINING AND GAMES FOR PETS INTERIORS ARCHITECTURE ART FASHION 146 Villa Amapola on the Golden Mile 158 Spring Décor Pieces 162 Fashion by Custo 170 Toys, Training and Games for Pets

GO TO PAGE 146 VILLA AMAPOLA ON THE GOLDEN MILE

Extraordinary moments happen on ordinary days.

Let’s set the stage for the extraordinary to happen every day.

Panakuka SL Avda. CĂĄnovas del Castillo 10 29601 Marbella Tel. +34 952 85 79 62 marbella.bulthaup.com

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MODERN MEDITERRANEAN CHIC IN

LAS TORRES DE MARBELLA CLUB GOLDEN MILE

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CALLUM SWAN REALTY

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The best locations deserve the best properties. It’s a golden rule of real estate, and if this beautifully styled villa is anything to go by, one that certainly applies on the Golden Mile.

M

ost of us know that the Golden Mile is regarded as the top address in Marbella. Those familiar with it will also be aware of the fact that this area, marked by its long, elegant boulevard, can be broken down into various subsections, and of these the properties on the sea-facing side of the road are the most sought-after. What very few people know, however, is that within it, the homes surrounding Las Torres de Marbella Club represent the crème de la crème, making this quite literally the best street in town.

You wouldn’t know this because for all its central location between Marbella town, Puerto Banús and Nueva Andalucía, Las Torres de Marbella Club is a private, gated street with 24-hour security in a most secluded part of the Golden Mile right by the beach, which is just a few steps away. In terms of location, location, location, it doesn’t get any better than this, a spot that is private and secluded yet also near the shore and all amenities.

This, together with the properties that line it, makes Las Torres a little-known but outstanding strip of real estate.

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MODERNITY IN A PRIME SETTING Another golden rule of real estate is that the best locations are taken first, and although the properties within them may age over time, it is the land that gains in and represents the greatest value. Las Torres de Marbella Club is a prime example of this, and over the past few years we’ve seen the older villas here being bought and renovated, or in many cases completely rebuilt. The result is a collection of beautifully designed contemporary villas that retain much of the charm of the original homes, but combine this with up-to-date amenities and style in an inimitable setting.

Within Las Torres de Marbella Club, Villa Amapola is a tastefully reconstructed modern home with a strong Mediterranean feel at a short stroll from the Golden Mile’s beaches. It represents one of the last properties available on a sizeable plot here, where the larger estates are found nearer the seafront. Built over two levels, above ground only, this is a beautiful villa of unique quality and features in arguably the best location in Marbella, where homes of this kind are snapped up and do not reappear on the market for many years. In that sense, Villa Amapola is an opportunity.

The entrance to a classic modern Golden Mile villa

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Intimate, stylish and luxurious, this wellproportioned villa in Las Torres de Marbella Club represents the cream of Marbella

Lush outdoor luxury with a rustic touch

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A SENSE OF TASTE Completely rebuilt to the latest technical standards and fitted with the best in today’s modern comforts and amenities, the villa also respects the layout of the original property – a rare feature in an area with such high land values. This means that, while being new, Villa Amapola exudes the charm of a classic Marbella villa, and this is a thing to cherish. The sense of arrival is discreet and subtle, but all the more impressive for it, with a stone-cobbled driveway that leads to a garage block for three cars.

Ambient lighting and landscaping add to the clean, gentle lines of the villa, which stands out nicely against a backdrop of tall, mature trees and the peak of La Concha Mountain. The sloping, tiled Mediterranean roofline further softens the aspect of the house in an age where we’re used to jagged-edged geometry. It is a study in subtlety and harmony, in a manner that belies the fact that this sixbedroom villa offers 800m2 of built space – surrounded by a manicured mature green garden on a level plot.

The large terrace creates atmospheric spots from which to enjoy the privileged setting

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Villa Amapola enjoys one of the most privileged locations on the Golden Mile

The redesign and reconstruction of the villa is the work of father and son team, Marcos and Maurice Sainz of MS Design Studios, and it tells in the distribution of living spaces, the use of light to create an ambience, and the palette created for the interior designer to weave their magic — in this case Sophie Patterson, a leading London designer who specialises in Mayfair, Holland Park and Belgravia properties.

Together, they have created a home that is at once imposing, welcoming, stylish, comfortable and sophisticated.

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A perfectly stylish entrance to a luxurious villa

THE ULTIMATE FAMILY HOME

The entrance into the villa provides a taste of what is to come, with large lacquered black doors opening up to an open-plan formal entrance hall that leads to a gorgeous living area. The latter similarly blends a sense of formal refinement with a welcoming and comfortable feel, thanks in part

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to a large, cosseting sofa and a cosy wood-burning fireplace set behind glass and topped by a large, modern Carrara marble mantelpiece. Fine silk carpets, top quality furnishing and a gentle colour palette complete a design in which form and function come together in a perfect match.

Refined yet welcoming living room with classic touches

Recessed lighting creates an ambience in the evening, yet glide open the sliding doors and the lounge area extends outwards onto a delightful covered terrace with fine quality natural rattan lounge furniture, rustic chic tables and a dining space overlooking the pool and sundeck. It’s a wonderful spot from which to enjoy the sunset and watch the sky turn early evening blue, as you

enjoy an outdoor meal on the impressive stone table.

Sophie has eschewed modern minimalism for a more natural look and feel that is however fresh and contemporary.

The elegant dining room is a study in cosy, comfortable formality, featuring a blend of the finest quality carpeting, soft lighting and a mix of earthy tones set against sleek white. Elaborate, yet light and certainly warm

and relaxing, it does what a dining room of this kind should do – create a space where diners can socialise and enjoy themselves in a cosseting setting. Close by is the impressive modern kitchen, which apart from featuring the finest home appliances and being capable of catering for large numbers also blends style and convenience complete with its own snug lounge area with TV.

The elegant yet comfortable and intimate formal dining room

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VISIT TH E L IST ING A large informal dining table extends from the cooking island in a space that is at once contemporary and streamlined, yet also solid and natural, sporting not the more typical shiny white or black lacquered cabinetry, but mediumtoned modern matt wood. The six-bedroom suites are spacious, beautifully appointed and feature luxurious bathrooms, but the master suite, with sumptuous his and hers bathrooms and dressing areas, is something truly special, with direct access to the large first floor terrace whose delightful lounging spots surrounded by the garden’s greenery frame views to the nearby sea. A uniquely tasteful home in Marbella’s finest location!

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Each of the bedrooms has its own ambience and style

g Urb. Las Torres del Marbella

Club, Local 1, Blvd. Principe Alfonso de Hohenlohe, Marbella.

Tel: (+34) 952 810 608. info@callumswan.com www.callumswanrealty.com

Classic and modern elements blended to perfection

The finest quality materials reflect a modern home of standing

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Luxury Interiors – Interior Architecture – Refurbishment & Turn-Key Experts – 3D Renderings – Project Management

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1

THE FRESH AIR OF SPRING

One of the best things about the arrival of a new season is the inspiration it provides for changing the look of your interiors. Big changes aren’t necessary; a touch here and there can make your home livelier, more light-filled, and appealing. Here are a few trendy items for the season. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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3

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1 – LEATHER SEED PACKET STORAGE TIN BY ANNABEL JAMES 2 – WILD WOOD PEACOCK BUTTERFLY CUSHION BY PERKINS & MORLEY LTD 3 – WOODEN MAGAZINE STORAGE BOX BY THE CONTEMPORARY HOME 4 – WINTER BERRIES LARGE CANDLE BY ANNABEL JAMES 5 – MISTER & MRS PLANT SET BY RED CANDY 6 – NATURAL CERAMIC CRATER DECORATIVE VASE BY GISELA GRAHAM LONDON 7 – BOLGA STORAGE BASKET BY LOLA & MAWU

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Projects: Villa S & Villa A & Penthouse H

Interior Design & Property Development blackshawinteriordesign.com

Showroom: Avenida Canovas del Castillo 25, Marbella

+34 951 403 787

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When Custo Barcelona burst onto the fashion scene in the 1990s, it was mainly known for its boho chic T-shirts, containing contrasting prints in bold colours and varied textures and fabrics.

These days, the brand has taken fashion to new heights, staying true to its original feel while dazzling fashionistas with an array of items made with contrasting fabrics and the vivid hues which make wearers feel alive. We bring you a few items from their 'Thank you, next' collection. The collection is inspired on the neologism SPeACE – an amalgam of universal optimism and the peace the brand hopes we will all see in the near future. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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SPEACE OUT WITH

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USTO

BARCELONA

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IN MARBELLA, YOU CAN FIND CUSTO BARCELONA ITEMS AT EL CORTE INGLÉS AND THE CUSTO BARCELONA BOUTIQUE IN PUERTO BANÚS. VISIT C U STO

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KEEPING KITTIES AND CANINES ENTERTAINED

DURING CONFINEMENT WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

S

tudies show that walking with your dog every day brings fantastic health benefits, yet this pleasure, enjoyed by so many on Marbella’s most magnificent esplanades is, for now, the stuff dreams are made of. While we are still allowed to venture outside the front door with Fifi, our walks are supposed to be short and purposedriven. In a way, confinement is easier for human beings because we have many resources at hand – sound systems, streaming services, and the like. If your pet is a bit down in the dumps because they miss their daily exercise, bring back the spark with these top actvities.

GAMES FOR DOGS

Train your dog to ‘find the treat’ hidden beneath one of three cups. Stick a small treat under one cup, shuffle them around, and see if they ‘paw’ at the right cup. Other games include ‘hide and seek’ (they love this one). Ask a family member

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to hold your pet, find a good hiding place and say their name once. Watch them go crazy trying to find you! If you have a garden, fill ice cubes with doggy treats or small pieces of food. Watch Fido lick away until the ice melts and he can finally gobble the treat.

TRAINING TIPS FOR DOGS

Fido, too, can do his share to keep your house clean. Train him to collect his toys and keep them in a special box at the end of the day and also how to identify different toys by asking him to “pick up Mr. Octopus,” giving him a treat if he chooses the right toy.

UNDER, OVER AND THROUGH

Teach your dog to jump over a low pole, climb under tables, and jump through a low hoop (some dogs, especially terrier types, love this activity). Reward them with a click and, of course, something good to eat!

AGILITY COURSES FOR CATS

Now is the time to put your imagination into overdrive and design your very own agility course for cats. This can include jumping through hoops, walking up and down a ramp, darting around poles placed in a straight line, and finally, shaking hands/ paws.

GAMES FOR CATS

If you have a fishing rod, remove the hook and tie a badminton shuttlecock to the

end of the string, launching it across your living area and reeling it back in so your cat chases after it. If you don’t have a rod, just tie a feather to a string and secure the string around a stick. The feather won’t reach as far but it will work in smaller spaces. If your dog enjoys the game of fetch, throw a ball around the home and watch them chase it. Some cats even go nuts about torches, giving it their all to ‘catch’ the light.

AGILITY PUZZLES FOR KITTY

Fill a cardboard box with kitty snacks or toys, securing the box with tape or any safe way to keep it shut. Use a cutter to cut out several shapes (triangle, square, sphere) and watch your cat try to pull out the contents of the box.

TIPS FOR TECH KITTIES

Some cats love playing with tablets and smartphones; others pass completely.

You may be surprised to learn that there is a wide array of games for cats. Try the Paint for Cats app (made to unleash your cat’s inner Picasso) or Friskies Jitterbug (this app lets insects and other crawlies lose on screen while your cat tries to ‘catch’ them). e

PAPER BAG MAYHEM

Get a loose paper bag and invite your cat into it. Use your fingers to gently ‘poke’ them from the outside and watch them try to ‘catch’ your fingers or any other soft object you may choose to tease them with.

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We have to fight against the pandemic together. Our ventilators and materials are going to help those who now need them the most.

The Cirumed surgery is the largest super-specialised Plastic Surgery Center on the Costa del Sol. Surgical gearing is highly specialised to accomodate the needs of extensive body contouring surgery involving large volume fatgrafting.

The Cirumed surgery is the largest super-specialised Plastic Surgery Center on the Costal del Sol. Our Cirumed Surgery Center is attached to our clinic and specially designed for the requirements of extensive bodycontouring procedures. The facilities include 2 laminar flow airfiltered theatres, a 2 bed recovery unit and 8 patient suites.

Cirumed Clinic NOW benefits from a brand-new aesthetic medicine floor. All geared up for a great Cirumed Body Contouring experience!

EDIFICIO PANORAMA PLANTA BAJA LOCAL 2 - CTRA. CÁDIZ KM 184 - 29603 MARBELLA

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A VALUABLE IMMUNITY BOOSTER

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VITAMIN D

Last month, you may have read our article on liposomal Vitamin C. Across the globe, top health gurus and doctors are recommending the consumption of this fast-acting form of a vitamin known to keep us in fighting shape and to reduce our chances of catching common colds and flus. During this challenging time, there is another vitamin that can help keep our defences up – Vitamin D, which is best obtained from a free, fantastic source: the sun! WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

WHY IS VITAMIN D SO IMPORTANT?

If you live in a sunny area like Marbella, consider yourself lucky. In the U.S., where climates vary greatly from state to state, it is estimated that around 85 per cent of the population have insufficient Vitamin D levels.

As stated by Dr. Mercola, “There are about 30,000 genes in your body, and vitamin D affects nearly 3,000 of them, as well as vitamin D receptors located throughout your body.” Consider this vitamin an important way to build your defences against cancer as well; it has important functions, including that of helping stop the transformation of benign tumours into cancerous ones.

HOW CAN YOU ENSURE YOUR DAILY DOSE IS ADEQUATE?

Doctors generally recommend that human beings aim for 10 to 30 minutes of sun daily. The darker

your skin, the more time outside is recommended though the ideal amount of time depends, to a great degree, on how sensitive your skin is.

Expose your forearms, hands, or lower legs (without sunscreen unless your skin is quick to burn) for a few minutes but protect your face if you are worried about pigmentation and/or wrinkles.

If you are receiving sunlight through a glass window or door, know that vital UVB rays cannot make their way through the glass. Direct exposure is best.

If you plan on staying out for more than a few minutes, cover up and apply sunscreen with an SPF factor that is appropriate to your skin type. Babies and children should be protected against the sun via sunscreen and covered with suitable clothing. Keep them out of the sun during peak hours of sunlight in the summer.

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WHO NEEDS SUPPLEMENTS As a rule, official government bodies usually only recommend Vitamin D supplementation for a small group of people – including babies who consume less than 500ml of infant formula and people who live in areas with very little sun.

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It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements but Vitamin D in particular should be taken under supervision, because having the wrong levels can be dangerous. Supplements can be dangerous, unlike natural sunlight, since with the latter, the body stops producing Vitamin D when it has had enough. Doctors recommend regular blood testing to ensure your levels remain optimal (not too low, nor too high). It is also recommended that you take Vitamin D supplements alongside Vitamin K2, because deficiency of the latter is connected to Vitamin D toxicity.

LIPOSOMAL VITAMIN D IS QUEEN

VITAMIN D FROM FOOD The best dietary sources of Vitamin D include fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, and herring), red meat, and eggs. Some products (e.g. some breakfast cereals and spreads) are fortified with Vitamin D so opt for these items when the weather is overcast or rainy.

If liposomal Vitamin C is King of the vitamin world in times of immunity strengthening, liposomal Vitamin D can be considered the Queen. When you take normal Vitamin C and D, the body is able to absorb only a small amount and most of it is eliminated.

Liposomal vitamins are housed in protective membranes called liposomes, which consist of bi-layers of phospholipid molecules (similar to your own body’s cell membranes). These protect the vitamin content, enabling it to

bypass the digestive enzymes and deliver powerful nutrition directly to your cells.

Vitamin C and D are both immunity enhancers, but it is vital to get your levels right. Excess Vitamin C is simply eliminated through the urine but with Vitamin D, things are a little more complex. This is why testing and doctor approval are advised even by those who recommend daily supplementation. e

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Solidarity

Dr. K. Kaye / Director

Click the images for COVID-19 info

ZURICH - MARBELLA - MADRID

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HOTEL CHOCOLAT THE FANTASY OF

INDULGENCE Right now lots of people are dreaming of better days when we can head to our favourite restaurant for a decadent treat.

Many are opting to pamper their skin meanwhile with gourmand products bearing fragrances of classic desserts.

Hotel Chocolat is a British cocoa grower that creates all sorts of wonderful merchandise and gift ideas – including chocolate eggs, spirits, and skincare, all of which have one thing in common: chocolate inspiration. We bring you a few irresistible items from their skincare range. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

SH OP N OW

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1

1 CACAO & BABUSSU BODY LOTION: A great choice for those

5 ALMOND CHOCOLATE LIP BALM

You won’t be able to resist after a little light moisture. licking your lips with this yummy 2 CACAO & ALMOND BATH & BODY balm.

OIL This fragrant oil helps trap 6 CACAO & ALMOND BODY moisture in skin after a shower BUTTER A lovely body butter that or bath. is the perfect match for dry skin.

4

3 CACAO, ALMOND & COCONUT THREE SHELL SCRUB Island shells transform your skin from dull to smooth and luminous.

4 CACAO & WILD HONEY HAND CREAM A sensuous blend of

wild honey and fragrant cocoa beans.

3

2

5

6

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Friends of the Marbella Club, we’ll always be here.

Marbella Club Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa ¡ Telephone (34) 952 822 211 marbellaclub.com

We offer a 20% discount and include a COVID-19 risk assessment and antibody test for all PREMIUM screening clients in May and June 2020

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THE EDGE AWARD-WINNING ARCHITECTURAL GEM BY THE BEACH

ARCHIMIA | 3D Studio Design

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KRONOS HOMES

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Looking even better in real life than on renders, this luxurious beachside development in Estepona with the sensual curves designed by Rafael de La Hoz is the winner of the 5-star award for Best Architecture in Spain. One of the Costa del Sol’s most stylish new apartment projects is coming to life at one of its very best frontline beach locations.

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W

hen Kronos Homes, the creators of The Edge, came upon this prime sea-fronting location in a peaceful setting just west of Estepona and its charming marina area, they knew it deserved more than just a ‘normal’ project. Offering direct access to a very secluded stretch of sandy beach, the plot follows the curvature of the shoreline towards Gibraltar, whose characteristic form takes shape in the distance, with the mountains of

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North Africa behind it.

This is one of the finest beachfront spots on the Costa del Sol, peaceful, private and yet panoramic and close to all amenities.

With golf courses, shops, restaurants and the charm of Estepona’s historic centre just a few minutes away, they recognised the uniqueness of the setting and decided to make this a landmark development that would stand out for what has since become the philosophy behind The Edge: #puredesign.

To achieve this vision of design-led excellence to

accompany a top location and first-class on-site security and amenities, they instructed one of the leading architects in Spain, Rafael de La Hoz, to create a development that would add to the beauty of this seaside location.

STELLAR DESIGN

The result is an outstanding new development of 68 apartments and penthouses ranging from two- to four-bedrooms but all enjoying spectacular sea views from their sleek terraces.

The name, The Edge, refers to this beachfront setting, whose sensually curved lines also provided the architect with inspiration, and led to a curvature that allows all of the properties to look beyond the gorgeous inner parkland area with swimming pools, cascading water features, sun decks and other amenities reminiscent of a five-star resort.

Stretching out beyond this private domain of landscaped greenery rise the blue of the sea and the sky. Together with the iconic landmarks of the Pillars of Hercules in the distance, and the nauticallyinspired wooden decks of the terraces, they form a blend of blue, green and earthy hues to which the contemporary architectural styling in white Krion finishing adds a sense

of fresh modernity. Seagulls, the salty scent of the sea, the caressing sound of the waves and gentle breezes mark this out as a spot where summer memories are made.

The Edge took away the top prize for Best Architecture in Spain at the recent International Property awards in London, not just for the creative, organic forms in its architecture and the beautiful materials used, but also for the layout and concept of the entire project, which features many innovative elements that are firsts on the Costa del Sol and raise the bar for property development here.

First is the fact that this gated community with 24-hour security is visually car-free, with one entrance leading to underground parking for residents.

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The communal areas are bright, comfortable and welcoming in a fresh, stylish way, leading to an impressive list of facilities or indeed your private home, be it an apartment, a penthouse or one of the beachfront villas within the complex – another unique feature at The Edge. The facilities, which are incorporated seamlessly into the design and make the most of natural light and inspiring views, include a Health Club with a state-of-the-art indoor-outdoor gym, a heated interior swimming pool of almost 25 metres in length, a relaxation area and a spa with different jets, Turkish bath and sauna. You will feel like you’re in a stylish resort as you arrive at the Health Club’s manned reception area and head for the his and hers changing rooms and showers, or indeed for a game of paddle tennis.

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VISIT THE PROJECT

LIFE BY THE SEA

The outdoor area is a manicured park with water features surrounding a large, impressive infinity edge swimming pool and sunbathing decks that look straight out over the Mediterranean Sea. The complex enjoys full security yet also has direct access to the beach and coastal pathway, which leads in the direction of Estepona and its marina, passing coves and bays along the way. Indoor and out, views are a companion to life by the sea’s edge, where the facilities add to a privileged

lifestyle and the stylish apartments with awardwinning architectural design feature cruiseship inspired terraces, spacious interiors with quality finishing, and sleek modern kitchens and bathrooms.

The apartments are comfortable and refined, the beachside villas a rare opportunity, and the penthouses offer magnificent vistas with large rooftop terraces where you can design your own lifestyle, fully supported by The Edge Concierge, the professional support service that is there for

everything from arranging babysitters and chefs to maintenance, cleaning, airport transfers, key handling, bookings, reservations and personal advice and secretarial assistance. The latter is provided at The Edge’s very own co-working centre, which enables people on holiday to pop in whenever they need some time to concentrate on business, and provides fulltime residents with the option of working in an office environment without having to commute.

It's life by the sea, but The Edge sets the tone for a dream lifestyle with everything at your fingertips. e g Tel: (+34) 952 110 362.

theedge@kronoshomes.com www.kronoshomes.com

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e m o H y a t S # GOOD TIMES AHEAD #PUENTELIFE365 Puente Romano Beach Resort sleeps while we’re all at home keeping safe. We look forward to great times together!

? n w o D k c o L # e h T r e t f A o ke To D

i L u o Y d l u o W What

h otel @p ue nte ro ma no .c o m | + 3 4 9 5 2 8 2 0 9 0 0 | p u e n t e r o m a n o . com

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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

NEW PHASE IX RENDERS FOR HIGUERÓN WEST 217

Live Work Play is the motto of luxury development Higuerón West, and you can now feast your eyes on brand new renders of Phase IX. The illustrations show the superb water cascade pool as well as the interior of a garden villa. i Further information, www.higueronwest.com

GRUPO VITHAS NAMES DR. ÁNGEL AYUSO SCIENTIFIC CORPORATE DIRECTOR AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ITS FOUNDATION

Dr. Ángel Ayuso has just been named Scientific Corporate Director and Managing Director of the Vithas Foundation. Dr. Ayuso specialises in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. At Vithas, he will be fostering team research that is patient-focused and of optimal quality. Dr. Ayuso told the press, “It is vital to organise our resources so as to give greater value to research teams. We will be identifying and working on strategic lines of investigation.” i www.vithas.es

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AEDAS HOMES PRESENTS LIVE VIRTUAL TOURS

AEDAS Homes has created a brand new Live Virtual Tours platform, which uses video game technology to allow users to visit as yet unconstructed homes online. There are a total of 500 houses to visit virtually in the following promotions: Soul Marbella (Marbella), South Bay Las Mesas (Estepona), Vanian Gardens (Estepona) and Middel Views (Fuengirola). José Luis Leirós, Director of Live Virtual Tours, stated: “The Live services allow advisors to show unconstructed homes to clients in a virtual fashion.” i www.aedashomes.com

NVOGA ONLINE SURVEY TO ASSESS THE EFFECT COVID-19 IS HAVING ON THE PROPERTY MARKET

NVOGA currently has an online survey for members of the property market. This aims to assess the extent to which the state of alarm has affected businesses in this sector and how long it will continue to do so.

It additionally asks questions relating to online use, cancellation of sales, rebound effects and more.

NVOGA also recently held a free webinar for real estate professionals centred on a market analysis, challenges for 2020, and predictions for 2021, viewable below: i www.nvoga.com

WA TC H HE R E

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ESTEPONA TOWN HALL PROVIDES PSYCHOLOGICAL SUPPORT

KIND INITIATIVE IN MARBELLA

Due to COVID-19, three local companies have come together to support families in need in Marbella: vegan eyelash sensation Astarte Diosa, La Freshquita fruit shop, and Carnicera Gallega. These businesses are bringing food baskets to the doorsteps of needy families in the area. i If you know someone who could use a box with a weekly supply of necessities, please contact the giving team on info@kindinitiative.org

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The Estepona Town Hall is pleased to announce that it is lending psychological support to children and their families during the COVID-19 quarantine. This service is provided year-round but it has become particularly useful at this moment in time. The idea is to offer individualised attention to those in need, since anxiety is high in many households. g For information on how you can get started, call Tel: 952 89 000 extensions 1353 or 1383 from 9am to 2pm.

You can also send your queries to gabinetepsicopedagogico@ estepona.es

HOW IS COVID-19 IMPACTING FAMILIES AND KIDS?

Researchers at the Universitat Ramon Llull have discovered that despite the fact that almost half of all families surveyed feel that COVID-19 has had a moderate to severe psychological effect, confinement has also offered them a unique opportunity to spend more time with their kids. Many parents admit that sometimes the behaviour of their children is less than ideal, but they are somehow managing to balance the needs of minors with their other obligations.

Teens surveyed, meanwhile, admitted that they felt nervous and plagued by obsessive thoughts that were difficult to control. They sometimes found it hard to focus and to avoid arguing with others. i To read the study in full, click here.

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© Kevin Horn

OP DE BEECK & WORTH RAISES FUNDS FOR DEBRA ESPAÑA Op de Beeck & Worth insurance brokers in Marbella, has once again exceeded all goals by raising almost €12,000 for DEBRA, The Butterfly Children Charity.

The money raised will be used for vital research into the genetic skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa. To raise the money, Danni Worth, Director, and his

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two children Tom and Alex, took part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon, receiving generous donations from friends, family, clients and suppliers.

The company additionally donated €1 per policy towards its chosen charities, which also helped to swell the final donation. i www.opdebeeck-worth.com

BANG & OLUFSEN AUGMENTED REALITY HOME DÉCOR

Cutting-edge firm Bang & Olufsen is inviting you to download their new augmented reality app, B&O AR Experience. The idea is to see – in very real terms – how their tech would look like in specific areas of your home. The app relies on ARKit technology to analyse the surroundings captured by your mobile phone. Try it out with the beautifully designed Beosound Shape – an impressive wall speaker system that can be customised in terms of shape, colour, and size. i www.bang-olufsen.es

TWO IN FIVE COUPES ARE UNHAPPY WITH LOCKDOWN SEX

Being stuck indoors has provided people with the perfect opportunity to reflect on their sex lives. In a bid to discover how couples are dealing with it, OnBuy conducted a survey of 1,360 people and the results aren't positive. Two in every five couples, it seems, could be doing better in bed. Almost 50 per cent are getting less sexy time during lockdown than in the past and around 41 per cent of women are unhappy with their partner’s performance, citing ‘too little time spent on foreplay’ as a major cause of disappointment. OnBuy suggests using apps like Sex Keeper: Tracker and Positions to spice things up. This app includes a personal diary, calorie counter, orgasm counter and more. i www.onbuy.com/gb/

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GRUPO DA BRUNO

Grupo Da Bruno will be undertaking COVID-19 tests on all its employees, of which there are 250. Tests have already been carried out on workers assigned to takeaway and delivery services in Da Bruno Cabopino and Da Bruno a Casa. Soon, they will be undertaken on those working in these areas at Da Bruno Sul Mare. The tests will be carried out as many times as the health authorities deem necessary. This measure is completely in line with Grupo Da Bruno’s extremely strict hygiene and health measures. i www.dabruno.com

DOCLINE AND DEBRA JOIN FORCES

Butterfly skin charity DEBRA and online platform Docline (which connects health professionals with patients) have joined forces to provide families in need with improved attention. Through Docline’s platform, health professionals can attend to families more efficiently via secure online video calls. Patients are already being attended to by nurses, social workers, psychologists, and more. i www.pieldemariposa.es

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BILLIONHANDS HELPS COMPANIES IN NEED

Billionhands is a store discount app that is ready to help companies suffering from the economic effects of COVID-19.

Local companies, pharmacies, markets, and other businesses can use it to obtain greater visibility. Just upload a photo of your business, service, or product and offer a discount and you will have a ‘virtual shopfront display’ that can attract new clients. i Further information, www.billionhands.com

CUDECA LAUNCHES CARING TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

Caring Together is the name of Cudeca’s new programme, launched to let people know that the hospice continues to care for the patients who most depend on its services. Over 500 patients are being treated at home via the support of Cudeca’s home care teams and Cudeca’s inpatient unit is also still functioning. Dr. Marisa Martín Roselló, Chief Executive and Medical Director of Cudeca, stated, “We are all aware that this is a big challenge for everyone during this crisis we are faced with, not only for the Cudeca team, but also for the community, our families and our friends, but Cudeca is very used to receiving the support of the community, that is why we exist and that is why we are launching this campaign to let you know that we are still here to continue caring for anybody who needs us.” i www.cudeca.org

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NEWS FROM BLACKSHAW

Blackshaw recently gave clients and friends an update about how things are going during confinement. The design team is currently working from their home offices; not much has changed in terms of their workflow and project progression. Staff is updating clients via video calls and receiving new inquiries on a daily basis. Recently, the construction team started working on sites again, as the team is allowed to apply final orders and installations so that projects can be handed over. i www.blackshawinteriordesign.com

BINCK CAFÉ ON THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION

BinckBank’s Martin Totté has uploaded a video in which he discusses the current global situation while working from home.

In the video, Mr. Totté explains that staff is fully set up and operative from their homes and are able to provide information on the latest financial situation. g Contact the hardworking team on Tel: (+34) 951 565 656 or on info@binckbank.com

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ANDALUSIAN STARTUPS OFFER BUSINESSES FREE TELEWORKING PLATFORMS

A number of Andalusian startups belonging to the Minerva programme (a startup accelerator) are currently offering their services to companies affected

by COVID-19. The companies include EPC Tracker OpenTherapi, iBabydoctor, Wuolah, SecureKids, Taalentfy, BrainsPro and Checkin.

Services offered range from online psychological therapy to human resources. i www.programaminerva.es

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SOLIDARITY SHINES IN MARBELLA AND BEYOND

Once again, companies from various industries and areas across Spain are doing their best to help others in the fight against COVID-19. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

RESCUE APP SOLIDARITY PLATFORM

Rescue App is a non-profit platform launched a month ago, with a view to uniting the supply and demand of materials such as gloves, masks, visors, disinfectant gel, tablets/mobile phones and the like. The platform has been used across Spain and many companies are contributing – including Decathlon, Meller, Layertex, and more. Over 16,000 items have been sent and many donations have been made by individuals and companies able to sew or print 3D equipment. Recipients of the equipment include residences for the elderly and hospitals. i www.rescueapp.es

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SEPIIA MANUFACTURES 10,000 MASKS

QUIRÓNSALUD MÁLAGA ADAPTS TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The Quirónsalud Hospital in Málaga is doing its best to adapt to the current health crisis by organising an online training session on protective measures that can be employed when doctors are carrying out endoscopes. The idea is to adapt to the new remote learning methods necessitated by COVID-19. i Check out the online session here

GO TO CL ASS

Sepiia, a Spanish brand dedicated to the manufacture of functional, sustainable outfits, recently donated antibacterial cloth to volunteers for the fabrication of 10,000 masks. Sepiia normally fabricates items for daily use – including shirts, T-shirts and high-tech sustainable items. The cloth it has donated has a unique ability to repel liquids. It can be washed and reused, making it a handy material for masks at a time of great scarcity. i www.sepiia.com

TAURUS DOES ITS SHARE FOR SPAIN

Small electrodomestics group, Taurus, has donated products worth over €50.000 to hospitals and nursing homes in Andalucía, Cataluña, Madrid, Castilla y León, Castilla–La Mancha, Galicia, and Valencia. Items distributed included microwave ovens, radiators, coffeemakers, kettles, and more. i www.taurus-home.com @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 203

SVR DERMATOLOGICAL LAB FIGHTS COVID-19

To contribute to the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, dermatological laboratory, SVR will make a donation of hydrating products to hospitals across Spain. The formulae of these products contain a high concentration of active ingredients. The aim is to repair the damage caused to the skin of health workers by continuous hand washing, the use of hydroalcoholic gels and the friction of protective equipment worn for long hours. SVR will also be donating these products to pharmacies. i www.es.labo-svr.com/

MAKRO DONATES TO FOOD BANKS

MAKRO has donated over 1,000 kilos of food to the region’s food bank, in order to feed those in need during the crisis. Víctor Arcos, Director of MAKRO Málaga, stated, “We are living through one of the most complicated situations we have ever faced. Many of the people in our region have been badly affected from a health and economic standpoint. Our responsibility is to contribute our share to help those who are most in need. We hope to benefit many families through our donations to the food bank.” i www.makro.es

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MARBELLA-GUADALMINA ROTARY CLUB SUPPORTS THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

The Marbella-Guadalmina Rotary Club has been working non-stop since the lockdown started, carrying out a host of helpful measures to fight COVID-19 in Marbella, Málaga and La Linea. The group has donated masks and food to Ciudad de Los Niños, donated money to Hogar Betania in La Línea, aided Collective Calling, and arranged for the delivery of delicious hot meals (provided at a discounted price by Masala) on Easter Sunday to frontline workers at the Hospital Costa del Sol. i www.marbella-guadalmina-rotary.club/

JAGUAR LAND ROVER CURRENTLY MANUFACTURING PROTECTIVE VISORS

Jaguar Land Rover is doing its share in the fight against COVID-19 by manufacturing protective visors using 3D printing technology.

These visors will go to those who most need them: health workers battling on the frontline. The reusable visors were designed by talented engineers from the Additive Manufacturing Centre. The company is currently in talks with providers and partners to step up production and start producing the visors on a much larger scale. i www.jaguarlandrover.com/es @ESSENTIALMARBELLAMAGAZINE MAY 2020 / 205

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LAND ROVER INVITES YOU TO DREAM

TELEPIZZA LENDS A HELPING HAND TO ANDALUCร A

Telepizza has shown its appreciation for Andalusian health workers and law enforcement, donating delicious pizza to medical centres, town halls, and different law enforcement agencies. The company also collaborated with the initiative called No Estรกis Solos, started by Gastrea Trucks and Ybarra with the support of 32 food companies. i www.telepizza.com

ESTEPONA ROTARY CLUB SHARES A LITTLE SWEETNESS

The Estepona Rotary Club recently donated around 400 desserts to staff at clinics, members of the police force, and members of the Guardia Civil.

The idea was to share a little joy with those who are working so hard to save lives and keep order in our cities and towns during COVID-19. Rotary will be working hard with further measures, in line with its passion for making a positive difference to their community. The group also donated Easter eggs to almost 75 children from families in need. i www.rotaryclubestepona.es

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If you already know the first place you wish to visit when confinement is over, Land Rover is willing to lend you a car for a weekend. Just tell them your story and if it is one of the top four, you will enjoy the use of a fabulous vehicle that you can use to visit the person you miss the most. i Sign up here if your curiosity is piqued: Infolandrover.es/reencuentros

HELICร PTEROS SANITARIOS UNDERTAKES RAPID TESTING FOR COVID-19

Thanks to a private donation by the Marbella Town Hall, Helicรณpteros Sanitarios has carried out 3,000 rapid tests for COVID-19 on professionals, volunteers, people living in five nursing homes, and those from the ASPANDEM association for persons with disability. The test indicates the presence of the virus in asymptomatic people and therefore plays an important role in preventing contagion. i www.helicopterossanitarios.com

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23/01/2020 15:53:23

URGENT APPEAL COVID-19 APPEAL

Many of you Essential magazine readers are aware of Collective Calling’s mission in Tanzania. This incredibly valuable work centres around rescuing, rehabilitating and reintegrating street children, some as young as 4 years old.

All this work is supported by fundraising events here on the coast. Since the Coronavirus outbreak all this has stopped. End result ............ no funds!!

PLEASE HELP Bank Transfer: Account Name: Bank Name: Bank Address: Account No: SWIFT: IBAN:

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the gourmet

WHIP UP A GOURMET HOME MEAL WITH RECIPES FROM TOP CHEFS, DISCOVER HOW CHEF JOSÉ ANDRÉS IS ONCE AGAIN GIVING HEART AND SOUL IN TIMES OF NEED, PREPARE FRESH HOMEMADE LOAVES WITH A BREAD-MAKING MACHINE, AND CHOOSE BETWEEN TWO CLASSIC BUBBLIES – CHAMPAGNE OR CAVA!

GO TO PAGE 212 FOR ONLINE RECIPES

BY HOT CHEFS

GO TO PAGE 220 JOSÉ ANDRÉS

GO TO PAGE 224 FOR TOP BREAD-MAKING MACHINES

NEWS GASTRONOMY CHEFS WINE

GO TO PAGE 234 CAVA VS CHAMPAGNE

212 Top Online Recipes

by Hot Chefs 220 José Andrés Lends a Hand During COVID-19 224 Top Bread-Making Machines 228 Gourmet Bytes 234 Cava vs Champagne

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TOP CHEFS

BRINGING EASY RECIPES TO YOUR HOME VIA YOUTUBE! If you are an avid Instagram user, then you are probably already hooked on the Insta recipes provided

by Dani García, Eneko Atxa and David López, then you probably know that there are many cool chefs doing the same on YouTube. In this post we suggest just four that are cooking up a storm during COVID, opening readers up to a beautiful, mindful, rewarding hobby that makes a cook even happier than the people he or she is feeding. COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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JAMIE OLIVER

He’s the king of home-cooked, traditional meals that can be made in a flash. Jamie Oliver, arguably best known for his unique skill at Italian cuisine and his aim of bringing healthier food to UK schools, has a simple yet powerful motto during this crisis: ‘Keep Cooking & Carry On’. He averages around a recipe a week and has made the following treats so far: homemade quesadillas, chocolate cake, minestrone soup, and a scrumptious harissa chicken tray-bake. Kids can tune in to his son Buddy Oliver’s recipes, which include pancakes, a simple steak sandwich, and (believe it or not) instructions on how to fillet a fish! View the recipe for Homemade Quesadillas here.

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GORDON RAMSAY

When watching Gordon Ramsay doing his thing, it is impossible to feel sorry for yourself or unmotivated to make a cracking meal. He is one of the most enigmatic people I have watched onscreen in my lifetime – the perfect blend of talent, wit, and nerve – impossible to take your eyes off. During the lockdown, he has been posting frequent recipes – sometimes as many as four a week, made at home and often featuring his family in the background.

He also has pre-recorded vids with celebrities like Ronda Rousey, always good for a laugh. Check out this recipe on how to make a stir fry at home.

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EMMY MADE IN JAPAN I love Emmy, a home chef who may not be as well-known as Ramsay and Oliver in ‘the real world’, but who is a huge hit on YouTube, with a 1.88M-strong following. It is hard to describe this channel but the best words I can think of are ‘visually beautiful’. She makes really pretty desserts such as soufflé pancakes, ice-cream that looks like fried chicken, mochi brownies and many more recipes that incorporate Asian influences. If you’re interested in Emmy’s channel, please watch the viral vid of the month – the recipe for Dalgona coffee. This quick, cheap recipe is just amazing. With two ingredients plus a dash of water, you can make arguably the yummiest iced coffee ever.

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GEMMA STAFFORD

I am convinced that deep down we all have a baker inside us and with the newly found time during the lockdown it’s screaming to come out. My social media is full of people showing off their talents and let’s face it, there is nothing more comforting than the scent of fresh bread in the morning.

Searching for puff pastry recipes, I came across this charming Irish lady and her Bigger Bolder Baking brand and found that she covers everything from cakes, cookies, breads, doughs, mug cakes and meals in the most daringly modern and quick ways. You can not only find colourful videos on frozen yoghurt, the best ever cinnamon rolls and the likes, but also an entire community of boldbakers just like me and you.

“It’s about taking risks in the kitchen and being confident that you can create the best results” -– says Gemma and I found she was right when my first ever pastry prepared in just 30 minutes came out all flaky and puffy from the oven. Her video doesn’t have close to a million views for nothing, it’s well worth a try!

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CHEF JOHN Food Wishes is the title of Chef John, who has a whopping 3.45M following. He is all-American but somehow very French at heart and indeed, most of his dishes are easy-to-prepare fusion delights that marry tradition and practicality.

He self-records his content and, usually, all you see are his hands in action. He talks over the video, giving tips and making observations as the images go along. He also has an offbeat sense of humour that makes his show equally watchable for non-cooks in a household. Feast your eyes on this recipe for penang pork satay. e

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JOSÉ ANDRÉS CHEF IN THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

The gastronomic industry, a key pillar of tourism, has been hard-hit by COVID-19, with many restaurants having closed down and seen their earnings paralysed during the pandemic.

Challenging times give rise to unexpected heroes, however, and many professionals in this sector are lending a helping hand in a myriad of ways. Some (think Jamie Oliver, Dani García) are whipping up wonderful dishes which are easy to recreate at home with a handful of ingredients. Others (such as Chicago Chef Rick Bayless) are hiring laid off restaurant workers for food organisation tasks. One chef who has really shone when it comes to philanthropy is José Andrés, the Asturias-born dynamo who grew up in Barcelona and eventually headed to Washington in the U.S., where he now lives. This chef has managed a true feat: appearing on the cover of TIME for his immense contribution to alleviating the COVID-19 crisis. WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

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FIGHTING THE PANDEMIC

When the Grand Princess cruise ship was forced to remain off the coast of California for what seemed like an endless wait at the start of the pandemic, José Andrés knew it was time for action. He made a few phone calls and jumped into a plane at the ungodly hour of 6:30am to San Francisco.

When the ship was finally permitted to dock, the chef and his team set up a tent, sending the passengers and crew magnificent meals via forklift. Over 50,000 meals were served for around seven days.

TIME, quoting composer and playwrigt

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Lin-Manuel Miranda, captured the essence of what makes Andrés so unique. “When we hear about a tragedy, we all kind of get stuck on ‘What’s the best to way to help?’ He just hurries his ass over and gets down there,” he told the publication. Miranda first connected with the chef in 2017, during the Hurricane Maria relief efforts. Jose Andrés has been at this for many years indeed.

Andrés’ team also fed passengers stranded on the Diamond Princess (in Yokohama, Japan) and today, his non-profit organisation, World Central Kitchen (WCK), is serving fresh meals daily in dozens of cities in the U.S. When the Diamond Princess was stranded, the WCK told the media, “The crew members on the Diamond Princess have been working tirelessly to care for the guests of the ship, while also needing to take care of themselves through the quarantine. WCK is here to help their team serve the ship’s passengers by making the safe delivery of delicious meals one less thing to worry about as they carefully and expertly navigate this situation – while also making sure that the crew is able to enjoy warm, nourishing meals every day.”

A cook prepares food for World Central Kitchen organization distribution amid COVID-19 pandemic at Beatstro restaurant in the Bronx

THE FOUNDATION OF WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN

to deliver meals made by community restaurants to hospital staff. This is World Central Kitchen was founded a win-win situation for restaurateurs long before COVID-19 struck. In 2010, and hospitals alike, since many of profoundly moved by the devastating the former had been forced to close earthquake in Haiti, Andrés launched owing to the pandemic. Today, they the non-profit organisation to prepare are actively making a difference, but food for the needy in this country. WCK also managing to stay afloat from a members acted as first responders, business perspective. but eventually collaborated with In 2018, José Andrés won the local chefs to battle hunger after the James Beard Foundation Award for immense natural disaster. Since its Humanitarian of the Year. Without a foundation, its members have not doubt, this is the type of mover and stopped. They have rushed to a number shaker who is making the world a better of needy areas, including the Dominican place. As the pandemic progresses, Republic, Nicaragua, Zambia, Peru, and the chef and his organisation will Cambodia. undoubtedly be dreaming up many more ways to help those who most SOUP KITCHENS WITH SOUL need it. Historians often doubt whether In March, Andrés converted eight or not human beings are born or made restaurants (in NYC and Washington) great but José Andrés demonstrates into soup kitchens, serving those who that it doesn’t really matter. What does were hard-hit by COVID-19. WCK has matter, is being there exactly when also partnered up with Frontline Foods someone needs you. e

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If your Facebook feed is anything like mine, then it probably contains an explosion of vivid food shots, comprising homecooked meals that would put even the great Gordon Ramsay to shame. Baguettes and pizza dough are two items many people are making and both these foods can be made to perfection in a bread making machine.

This handy piece of equipment takes new significance in the time of COVID-19, when many people prefer to make fresh items at home. If you are looking to buy a machine, these are five of the best.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

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BREAD MAKING MACHINES

THAT MERIT A PLACE IN YOUR KITCHEN

CUISINART ® CONVECTION BREAD MAKER

Choose from three crust colours, three loaf sizes and 16 preprogrammed menus. Make everything from crunchy bread to soft, brioche-style buns. i www.cuisinart.com

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BREADMAN 2LB. PROFESSIONAL BREAD MAKER The 14 pre-programmed bake settings on this machine produce white, wheat, French, artisan bread, jam, and more.

It comes with a special fruit and nut dispenser that automatically adds your extra ingredients at the right time.

With three loaf sizes and crust colours, you’ll create perfect results every time. It has a 15hour delay start and one hour keep-warm functions so your bread is steaming hot when you are ready to consume it. i www.breadman.com

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DE’LONGHI DBM450

For a perfectly risen, soft 1kg loaf of bread that offers a 15-hour delay-bake options, this is your perfect match. It has a total of five settings (including gluten-free options). It makes beautiful

crusty bread that presents the traditional ‘holes’ found in rustic bread (if you choose this bread type). It also has an interior light so you can see when the bread is kneading, rising, and baking. i www.delonghi.com

PANASONIC CROUSTINA HARD CRUST BREAD MAKER SD-ZP2000KXC

ZOJIRUSHI HOME BAKERY VIRTUOSO® PLUS BREADMAKER BB-PDC20

Whether you are after a fluffy white loaf, a heavenly cake, or a jar of sticky jam, this bread (and dessert) maker can make it happen. It bakes loaves measuring a little less than 1kg and has dual kneading blades that ensure your bread is well blended and perfectly shaped. i www.zojirushi.com

If you like nothing more than crusty bread that gives way to tender goodness with every bite, this is the breadmaker for you. Minimalist in monochrome black, it works quietly and bakes bread with a pleasant French-style flavour and crunch. i www.panasonic.com

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COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

MATARROMERA PRESENTS VIRTUAL WINE TOUR

The Matarromera family winery is inviting wine lovers to enjoy specialised tastings of wines from six denominaciones de origen: Ribera del Duero, Rueda, Rioja, Toro, Cigales, and Ribeiro. Keen gastronomes can learn about the diverse, fascinating wine culture at the hand of renowned wine personality, Félix González. The winery has a website offering a virtual tour of the winery as well as an entertaining blog. i Further information, www.matarromera.es

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DA BRUNO REOPENS TAKEAWAY

AND HOME DELIVERY SERVICES The Da Bruno Group of restaurants is offering its clients takeaway and delivery services from 1pm to 10pm, to lighten the load of the lockdown. Restaurant founder and owner, Bruno Filippone, said, “During this time we are following government recommendations. However, we

are ready to cook for those who need us. These are difficult times, but with everyone’s collaboration we will get through it. Málaga and the Coast have the qualities they need to be international benchmarks for the tourism and hospitality sectors.” i www.dabruno.com

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KAIKU SIN LACTOSA PRESENTS THE WONDERS OF K-FOOD Korean food is ultra-healthy, fragrant, and delicious and Kaiku Sin Lactosa is keen on sharing information about its key ingredients. Fermented foods like kimchi, spices, beer and infused water, banana milk, and steamed dishes are

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the key pillars of K-food. Kaiku Sin Lactosa suggests making your own banana milk with their dairy-free milk. Just blend a little Kaiku with ripe bananas and add a touch of cinnamon for a bit of fragrant magic. i www.kaikusinlactosa.com

MARBELLA ALL STARS

DEVELOPS PROCESSES FOR RECOVERY OF THE GASTRONOMIC TOURISM SECTOR Marbella All Stars, the group of chefs dedicated to the promotion of the food sector in Marbella, is currently creating pioneering strategies for the recovery of the industry post-COVID-19. One of the pillars of the process, they say, involves branding Marbella as a healthy, healing destination in Europe, one run by highly professional tourist-focused companies.

Marbella is also a top choice for a second home, where many will rest and recover post-confinement. Finally, Andalucía is one of the communities that has been less affected by the virus, compared to larger cities in the centre and north of Spain. i www.marbellaallstars.es

FUNDACIÓN OSBORNE OFFERS FREE ONLINE INFORMATION ON WINE AND BEVERAGES

The Fundación Osborne wishes to offer support to professionals and food buffs alike through the publication of free online audiovisual content on the topic of gastronomy and hospitality. It will be sharing this content with schools, professionals from the sector, and those who are simply interested in the subject. Topics covered include different types of wine and gin. The first ‘lesson’ is devoted to wines from Jerez. i Catch all the talks on www.fundacionosborne.org/es/ plataforma-online

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It is fair to say that in the world of sparkling wines there is a trinity of heavyweight contenders for the accolade of being the best. To some extent the depth of your pocket may determine your preference but no celebration or commiseration is complete without some bubbles. It is often, though not exclusively, served in a fluted glass to toast the happy couple, to coat the winning racing driver’s helmet or to perform as ad hoc shampoo for bikini wearing revellers at a beachside pool party. However, not all sparkling wines are created equal. WORDS MARK WILKINS

FRENCH

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S

o who are our frothy contenders?

In the ring, from a very specific region around the Cities of Rheims and Epernay in North-Eastern France, we have Champagne. The location is typified by a climate with low rainfall but often hot summers and cold winters For me, Champagne is the reigning champion of deliciousness in the fight to be regarded as the finest of

all sparkling wines.

The origin of Champagne is not crystal clear. In the middle of the 16th century the Church owned most of the rural land and various orders of monks worked it. In the Southern French town of Carcassonne, the Benedictine monks at the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire bottled their wine before the initial fermentation had completed its process and thereby created a sparkling wine known as the Blanquette de Limoux.

This is thought to be the first of the genre.

A century later, and contrary to the myth that he was the ‘inventor’ of Champagne, Dom Pierre Pérignon, also a Benedictine monk, contributed greatly to its production. He avoided the dangerous in-bottle refermentation, that gives sparkling wine its bubbles, but which also resulted in many bottles exploding due to natural yeasts being warmed in spring following

the colder winter months.

Based in the Abbey Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, just North of Epernay, he became an expert in the pruning of vines and the blending of grapes from multiple vineyards.

Around the same time, English glassmakers were improving the capacity of the bottles to withstand the internal pressures generated during the secondary fermentation.

Champagne, like most sparkling wines, is produced using a traditional process known as Méthode Champenoise.

A sharp tasting base wine, made from early picked grapes, typically of the Pinot noir, Pinot Meunier or Chardonnay varieties, starts off the process. The addition of small quantities of lesser known grapes from varieties including, Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Arbane or Petit Meslier, are used to augment the depth of flavour in the blending process.

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To the base wine, sugar and yeast are added with the latter consuming the former, releasing carbon dioxide into the wine, giving it sparkle. The Champagne is then aged. By rotating the bottle in the rack in a process known as remuage, the dead yeast cells, called lie are collected at the neck of the bottle. A later process known as disgorgement involves the neck of the bottles being frozen, opened and the lie removed. The dosage stage involves a final mix of wine and sugar being added to the opened bottles for yet more flavour before they are resealed. A second fermentation follows for a minimum period of fifteen months that delivers a ready, but a non-vintage, Champagne.

To satisfy the definition of a ‘vintage’ Champagne, the second fermentation needs to continue for a minimum period of three years.

It is interesting to note that the 19th century version of classic Champagne would have been far sweeter than those of today.

For his 1846 vintage, destined solely for the British market, Perrier-Jouët refrained from adding sugar. The expression Brut Champagne, the driest, was specifically introduced for the British market in the 1876.

Champagne should always be served cold, ideally between 7C and 9C.

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There are more than fifty major Champagne houses with some of the best known being Bollinger, Moët y Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Pol Roger, which is apparently the Queen’s favourite. Equally, there are many smaller domaines that make a few thousand bottles of Champagne annually, including the house of Jacquinot & Fils, that my wife and I discovered in Epernay, twenty-six years ago, when seeking our wedding Champagne!

The European Union has a series of measures intended to protect iconic products by the designation of origin, authenticity and geographical region. Champagne is one such product and varieties which are not from the defined Champagne region are prevented from using its iconic name.

France has its own rules known as Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) that impose local geographic restrictions, defining which grapes may be used and from which domaine those grapes may be grown in order to qualify to be used in the production of Champagne. The intention is to ensure that the

market is delivered the genuine article. While this creates a clear monopoly, the dominant producers are at pains to point that the overriding aim of these regulations is to provide customers with certainty and a quality product. The consistent high price charged for Champagne open up gaps in the market that others can very capably fill.

Our second contender, Cava, is a sparkling wine that hails from the Spanish region of Catalonia.

Cava takes its name from the Spanish word for ‘cellars’ where it continues to be produced.

Champagne and Cava are made by a very similar process.

They both contain three varieties of grapes that are harvested early to ensure high acidity.

However, the grape varieties differ. Although some Cava producers use Chardonnay and Pinot noir grapes, the majority use the distinct local varieties of Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-lo.

Unlike Champagne rosé, which is produced from a base wine that usually contains a small amount of Pinot noir red wine, most Cava rosados are made with a rosé base wine produced from Trepat, Garnacha or Monastrell varieties.

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Cava production requires a doublestep fermentation process that significantly changes the flavour by reducing the acidity, giving it fruity notes including melon and peach.

Typically, a simple Cava’s second fermentation takes a minimum of nine months. This period is extended for a Reserva Cava or Gran Reserva to 15 and 36 months, respectively.

Cava benefits from a Spanish Denominación de Origen (DO) status and only wines produced by the traditional Méthode Champenoise, detailed above, can be labeled Cava.

Around 95 per cent of all Cava production comes from the Penedès region of Catalonia. Notably the village of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia near Barcelona is home to three of the best-known Cava houses. Codorníu, which was founded in the village in 1551, Freixenet in 1861 and Juve y Camps, who have been making delicious Cava since 1921.

Some records suggest that Cava was first made in the early 1850s. Others note that Josep Raventos, who promoted Codorníu’s still wine products in the 1860s, visited the Champagne region and appreciated that the vineyards of Penedès could be repurposed to produce sparkling wines of a

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similar quality. The Europe-wide vine plague, phylloxera, delayed Joseps ambitions and it was not until 1872 that he launched his first Cava. The destroyed vineyards were replanted with varieties of white wine grapes and commercial production was underway.

Technology assisted the Catalonian producers when a device called the gyropalette was developed to mechanise the process of remuage prior to disgorgement.

Invented in 1968 by two French vintners, Codorníu became its first major user in the mid 1970s. Many of the established Cava houses now age using this technology.

In addition to rosados versions, Cava is produced with various levels of sweetness, with brut nature being the driest and dulce, the sweetest. I am particularly fond of the reasonably priced Codorníu product Anna de Codorníu named after one of the founders. However, one of the finest Cavas I have tasted to date is the slightly more expensive 24-months aged ‘Cinta Púrpura Brut Reserva’ from Juve y Camps. Both of these fine wines are deliciously complex and present very acceptable alternatives to non Vintage Champagne.

The third contender in this trinity hails from Italy and is called Prosecco. Typically the wine comes from the village of Prosecco close to the north eastern city of Trieste. Predominantly made with Glera grapes, historically known as Prosecco grapes, it may also contain grapes of other varieties including Verdiso, Bianchetta, Trevigiana or Perera.

I confess to being fond of Prosecco. It is usually light yellow in colour and has a wonderfully crisp, fresh and predominantly citrus flavour.

It characteristically stops forming bubbles soon after it is poured.

For a modestly priced bottle of sparkling wine, Prosecco is on a par with many Cavas.

However, I would argue most Champagnes and some better quality Cavas are superior.

Additionally, it does make an excellent sparkling cocktail when accompanied by Aperol!

Geographically protected by a method similar to Champagne and Cava, the wine rarely ferments in the bottle and is usually drunk young. e

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. THE STARS May

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RUSSELL GRANT’S

Monthly Horoscopes May 2020

www.russellgrant.com

ARIES

An unusual source of income could open up for you at the start of May, allowing you to learn how to use some cutting-edge technology.

Your innovative thinking will be greatly prized by any business. The Full Moon on the 7th marks a passionate turning point in a romance.

If you’re single, you’ll be drawn like a magnet to a mysterious but attractive newcomer and you’ll certainly enjoy the thrill of the chase.

You’ll command the spotlight on a public or

TAURUS

neighbourhood platform on the 9th and 10th; people will be impressed by your practical approach to getting things done. Working online with a former colleague will be rewarding on the 11th; you’ll appreciate their friendly suggestions. Make connections with officials at a bureaucratic or official level on the 12th; these people will help you cut through red tape. The New Moon at the end of the month brings happy news about an old friend.

Your innovative and inventive ideas will set you apart from the crowd as May gets up and running, making this a great time to sit back, think things through and plan for the future. On the 7th, the Full Moon marks an exciting turning point in a close relationship. A friendship could turn to romance or you could get engaged. If you’re single, you may meet someone special on social media. Your practical outlook and calm demeanour pave the way for an interesting option on the 9th. This is a potential-packed time to advance your future prospects thanks to profitable contacts that can be maintained and furthered online. Keep all your receipts from the 12th onwards as it may be necessary to return a luxury item. A career opportunity is yours for the asking on the 20th; apply for this position, but you might have to wait a wee while until you can make the most of it. The New Moon on the 22nd is ideal for preparing a set of plans and proposals that will help the people around you.

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CANCER

ON THE 22ND, THE NEW MOON WILL BRING A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY TO REST, RELAX AND RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES. IT’S A POSITIVE PERIOD FOR RECONNECTING WITH THE MORE ESOTERIC AND SPIRITUAL SIDE OF LIFE.

GEMINI

There are people around you who would be more than happy to steal your thunder at the start of May so keep a creative project under wrap. Be realistic about your future goals on the 4th. If you need additional training to pave the way to future success, sign up for an online course.

The Full Moon on the 7th could find you recovering from a stubborn health issue. Give yourself a reward for sticking with a strict therapy; your dedication has paid off. Brushing up on a subject you studied when you were younger will be rewarding on the 11th. Don’t be surprised when you’re asked to pass on your knowledge and know how to others on the 12th. Your exhaustive experience and expertise will establish you as an expert. Charm, wit and intelligence open doors for you on the 20th, making the second half of the month a potential-packed period to venture into unfamiliar territory. You’re sure to make some influential friends around the 22nd. That’s when the New Moon will showcase your special skills.

CANCER

The Full Moon on the 7th could bring news of an engagement or pregnancy.

You’ll enjoy celebrating this happy event with your nearest and dearest. The 9th is perfect for a romantic interlude; you’ll have a wonderful time sharing your days and dreams with the one you love most in the world. Are you single?

A friendship could turn into a passion-packed partnership with next to no encouragement. The 12th brings you into contact with a range of fresh ideas and initiatives. You might like to think they don’t apply to you, but the chances are that they do. Reconnecting with a former romantic or business partner is possible on or around the 14th.

On the 22nd, the New Moon will bring a wonderful opportunity to rest, relax and recharge your batteries. It’s a positive period for reconnecting with the more esoteric and spiritual side of life. Your popularity will soar on the 28th, when your offbeat sense of humour attracts admirers at every turn. Some family events are cancelled or rescheduled.

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. THE STARS May

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LEO

Offering something fresh and new will see your star rising as May gives you the impetus to make a positive impression on the world around you. Don’t yield to pressure to take the conventional path when a more adventurous approach will be better for you. On the 7th, the Full Moon brings a satisfying conclusion to a property deal.

This would usually be a good time to buy or sell a house or flat, but all property deals look likely to be delayed or even cancelled. Be willing to revise some of your attitudes about

VIRGO

Your specialised knowledge paves the way for a very welcome opportunity as May gets underway. You’ll enjoy working online with students who are eager to learn from you. Professional or outside obligations could impact on your personal life around the 4th; it may be necessary to cancel an engagement for the sake of making progress with a particular project. On the 7th, the Full Moon brings good news about a partnership, raising the possibility of getting engaged. If you’re already in a serious relationship, your other half could receive a nice

intimacy on the 11th. If you’re going to stay with a partner, you must change and grow together. Your star power helps you to cultivate a successful career through an online connection on the 15th; this is an ideal time to make a power play or launch a new digital project. Facebook invitations will pour in on the 20th; attend only the events that promise to be fun. You’ll be put in charge of a group project towards the end of the month and the results will delight you and surprise those around you.

financial boost, which will benefit you both. A romantic surge on the 9th will bring a chance for you both to connect with your sensual side. A public announcement will go very well on the 11th; the audience appreciates how you back up your ideas with detailed examples. Let your lover take the lead in your relationship on the 12th; their instincts are right on target. Another potential-packed professional patch is coming your way on the 22nd, courtesy of the New Moon, so be prepared for change and advancement as June approaches.

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LIBRA

THE FULL MOON ON THE 7TH COULD BRING A BONUS OR PAY OUT OF SOME KIND; USE THIS MONEY TO BUY SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOURSELF OR YOUR LOVED ONES.

LIBRA

Don’t pretend to know more than you do on the 4th or you could find yourself in an embarrassing situation at the start of May. The Full Moon on the 7th will bring a bonus or pay out of some kind; use this money to buy something special for yourself or your loved ones. A passionate relationship gives you the courage to make important changes to your personal life on the 9th while a former love interest will try to reconnect with you on the 11th, making you more than a little curious about their motives. Taking a leading role socially or in your local neighbourhood will give you a chance to display your organisational skills and caring side on the 22nd, when the New Moon drops this intriguing opportunity in your lap.

You’ll learn as much from those around you as they do from you. As May prepares to make way for June you should think about the ways you can share your knowledge and know how or skills and talents with those you live or work with as you will all have a lot to gain from this learning curve.

SCORPIO An unusual agreement satisfies all concerned on the 1st; don’t feel pressured to pursue a conventional way forward when a more unorthodox route could get you where you want to go with less fuss and bother. On the 7th, the Full Moon gives you a welcome opportunity to pamper yourself. Splash out on some luxury items that make your spirits soar. Don’t hesitate to negotiate better terms for a professional or business agreement on the 9th; you’ll forge a deal that brings long-

term financial security for you and yours. The 11th prompts you to reconsider some beliefs that were imposed on you as a child. Feel free to adopt a philosophy that is a true reflection of your values, even at the risk of upsetting your family. A stimulating conversation with a neighbour or relative prompts you to undergo a personal transformation on the 15th and you will not be easily dissuaded from what you feel is the right way forward for you. The New Moon on the 22nd is ideal for a romantic interlude.

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. THE STARS May

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SAGITTARIUS Imposing your family’s views and values on a romantic partner could backfire badly in the opening days of May. Instead of trying to change your amour, love them unconditionally. The Full Moon on the 7th puts an end to a period of obscurity. You’ll welcome turning your back on the days when you might have gone through life unnoticed and walking into the limelight.

A new job or different role on the 10th looks likely to increase your income; it will be nice having the money to study or simply enjoy yourself.

Be open to revising a creative project on the 11thand listen to a talented friend’s advice on how to move it forward. You’ll benefit from teaming up with a seasoned expert and the 12th is perfect for signing a contract or entering a partnership, but it may be some time before it can come into force. You’ll reap the rewards of a new health regimen on the 17th; your body will thank you for improving your diet and getting more sleep. An exciting relationship will burst into flower on the 22nd, courtesy of a stimulating and energising New Moon.

CAPRICORN You’re irresistibly drawn to a quirky character on the 1st and you’ll have a lot of fun working on a creative project together. The Full Moon on the 7th marks the successful conclusion of a group effort. Not only will you be happy with the fruits of your labour, but you’ll also stay friends with the people you’ve met. Your charisma will be at an all-time high on the 9th making this a promising patch to plan and prepare for when life resumes it’s normal pace. Financial

pressures should ease around the 11th; you’ll welcome the opportunity to enjoy some online retail therapy. A longterm assignment on the 12th is worth checking out, even if the pay isn’t all that attractive.

An overloaded schedule will prompt you to scale back your commitments on the 14th while the New Moon on the 22nd, will prompt you to take better care of your health.

A nutritious diet and social distancing will boost your energy considerably and set you up for the days ahead.

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PISCES ALTHOUGH

TRAVEL PLANS MAY BE RESTRICTED YOU CAN STILL MAKE SOME DESTINATION DECISIONS EVEN IF YOU CAN’T BOOK ANYTHING JUST YET.

AQUARIUS Enjoy being with those you love most in the world on the 1st.

You’ll enjoy lively conversations that you’ll be remembering for days afterwards. Be realistic about your financial situation on the 4th; this will not be a good time to buy any expensive purchases, especially if you won’t be able to take them back for a refund. On the 7th, the Full Moon marks an important achievement. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered a changed role in your community. Your tremendous vision, combined with your organisational skills, make you a star in your field. You’ll revise some assumptions on the 11th, when you realise you haven’t been giving people a fair crack of the whip.

Never be afraid to admit you were wrong. The 12th is ideal for entering a contest or competition as your chances of winning will be given a big boost. The New Moon on the 22nd inspires you to begin a creative project. Give yourself permission to experiment and make mistakes. Take advantage of a lastminute sale on furniture and furnishings towards the end of the month when your sense of style and natural good taste will be second to none.

PISCES You won’t be able to flatter a relative into doing your bidding on the 1st.

It’s better to be totally up front and honest about your wishes and wants.

On the 7th, the Full Moon will bring the successful end to a time of learning and development. Your efforts are sure to attract fame and acclaim around the 10th of May making it a propitious time to showcase your considerable skills and talents. Adopt a more assertive approach on the 12th; and work singlemindedly to achieve an important personal or professional ambition. If

needs be don’t be afraid to elbow your way to the front of the line. Signing a contract on the 15th could pave the way to long-term financial security.

If you want to sell or buy property, the days surrounding the 22nd are ideal for making all the necessary preparations even if it means taking quite some time before you are finally in a position to move forward with your move. Although travel plans may be restricted you can still make some destination decisions even if you can’t book anything just yet. e

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