Essential Magazine, August 2023

» GO TO LIFESTYLE

136 Timeless Refinement in Reserva de Alcuzcuz

148 Design Trends

154 Summer Glamour

166 Rosemary Oil for Hair

170 Luscious Lips

174 New Life Marbella

176 Pet Technology

» GO TO ENTERPRISE

180 Terrazas de Cortesin Bon Air

186 Santa Clara Homes

194 Business News

206 Making a Home in Spain

208 The Vibe

» GO TO GOURMET

214 Dining Around Finca Cortesin

222 Exciting Changes at Boho Club

228 Balausta – Dining Haven in Málaga

234 Top Málaga Chef, José Carlos García

238 Gourmet Bytes

242 Blush Rosé

The world's leading brand with the best local expertise

Frontline Golf · Los Flamingos: Spectacular designer villa built with the best quality materials, with sea views and top-of-the-range entertainment areas.

5 beds, 7 baths. Built 650 m2 , plot 1.600 m2

Price: 4.900.000 €, E&V ID: W-02Q3KE

Sierra Blanca: A true modern villa with an exceptional architecture and views.

4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, built area approx. 522 m2 , plot approx. 1.108 m2

Price 4.950.000 €, E&V ID W-02NFRO

Puerto Banús: Duplex penthouse with unrivalled sea views in the best location.

3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, living area approx 222 m2, terrace approx. 66 m².

Price 2.980.000 €, E&V ID W-02SMUV

Cabopino: Exquisite luxury villa with lovely sea views in an exclusive community. 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, built area approx. 453 m2 , plot approx. 560 m2

Price 2.375.000 €, E&V ID W-02RUMO

Beachside

Outstanding Spanish-style villa with chic interiors. 5 beds, 5 baths, built area approx 794 m2 , plot approx 3.138 m2

Price 4.450.000 €, E&V ID W-02R7B8

· Guadalmina Baja:

Because buying and selling a property is a matter of trust!

Cascada de Camoján: The epitome of luxury living with unparalleled high-end amenities in the most exclusive community of Marbella.

7 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, built area approx. 1.812 m2 , plot approx. 2.020 m².

Price on application, E&V ID W-02RXN6

Nueva Andalucía: Exceptional villa offering unparalleled privacy and tranquillity.

5 beds, 7 baths, built area approx. 516 m2 , plot approx. 1.455 m2 .

Price 3.875.000 €, E&V ID W-02RTIF

El Rosario: Spectacular panoramic views, beautiful design and luxury amenities.

5 beds, 6 baths. Built 302 m², plot 1.552 m².

Price 2.750.000 €, E&V ID W-02REDF

Golden Mile: Modern villa with elegant interiors in an exclusive urbanization. 5 beds, 6 baths, built area approx 883 m2 , plot approx 1.495 m2

Price 3.900.000 €, E&V ID W-02SV9P

Frontline Beach · Bahía de Marbella: Chic townhouse in an unbeatable location. 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, living area approx 213 m2 , terrace approx. 49 m².

Price 2.195.000 €, E&V ID W-02RBW5

Beachfront luxury.

Exceptional apartment with excellent sea views offering spacious accommodation combined with the exclusivity of a beachfront location next to Puerto Banus.

Set in Casa Nova, a very private and exclusive gated complex with 24h security, direct access to the beach, social club and immaculate gardens with heated swimming pool, the apartment has a practical layout with a large lounge/ dining area, two luminous bedroom suites and wonderful terraces to enjoy the breathtaking sea views.

Finest materials, two undergound private parking spaces and a storage room for convenient lock-and-go living in one of the best locations on the coast.

Villa Serena.

Discreet elegance and exceptional quality

Supreme location, spectacular sea views, and exceptional design come together seamlessly in Villa Serena, a newly built residence nestled within the prestigious La Zagaleta resort, offering unparalleled services and amenities for an exquisite quality of life.

This remarkable villa embodies sophistication and relaxation with architecturally imaginative living spaces, crafted with the highest quality materials. The fusion of Mediterranean style with a touch of Nordic influence creates an ambiance that is both elegant and inspiring.

The expansive interiors include six luxurious bedroom suites across three levels, an elegant living and dining room, a delightful sitting area with double-height vaulted ceilings, a separate kitchen, a basement leisure area filled with natural light perfect for a gym and spa and a 2-car garage.

DESIGNED FOR BETTER LIVING

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

The view from your sofa at Vista Lago Residences

A NEW ERA OF eco-LUXURY LIVING

28 ultra luxury apartments & penthouses in an exclusive gated community close to the beach and the puente romano beach resort

Developed by

WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

GO WITH THE FLOW

After a searingly hot July, we suggest plunging into a series of water sports to ensure coolness.

This sizzling edition of essential features mesmerising Mauritius, and curated travel programs from Inspiring Soho.

Feel the exhilaration of acceleration in the new Aston Martin DB12, and check out the latest revelations on UFOs.

Don’t miss our exclusive interview with Penélope Cruz and top tips for acquiring sustainable clothing from Natalia Fernández of Wanderlove.

Experience gourmet dining at Finca Cortesin, Boho Club in Marbella, and restaurants José Carlos García and Balausta in Málaga.

Top suggestion: Sip on a refreshing glass of blush rosé while you savour this month’s essential reading.

“What lies behind you and what lies in front ofyou, pales in comparison to what lies inside you”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

5 BEDROOMS, 5 BATHROOMS

PLOT 3,972m2

BUILT AREA 1.517m2 TERRACES 425m2

Price on application.

LA ZAGALETA – VILLA KAIZEN A PHILOSOPHY FOR LIVING

Discover unrivaled opulence and sophistication in this stunning villa, where impeccable architectural design and high-end finishes create an atmosphere of luxury. Gaze upon breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains from the spacious living areas that seamlessly connect with the outdoors.

The villa features 5 bedrooms-suites including a spacious guest apartment, which could be adapted to an additional 6th bedroom. The master bedroom serves as a true oasis, featuring large windows that frame captivating mountain and sea views.

Indulge in the villa’s amenities, including an indoor

pool, spa, wine cellar, and gym, catering to relaxation, wellness, and indulgence. The expansive living spaces are perfect for hosting gatherings, complemented by a chef’s dream gourmet kitchen.

Step outside to find a beautifully landscaped garden, a large swimming pool, pool house, outdoor kitchen, and dining area. The spacious terrace invites al fresco dining and entertaining.

Nestled in La Zagaleta, a prestigious European residential community, experience unparalleled peace, privacy, and high security level amidst the Andalusian mountains. Enjoy access to a private golf course, equestrian center, helipad, and clubhouse offering exceptional amenities and services.

Experience one of the most beautiful locations on the planet: Mauritius. Marvel at the streamlining of the new Aston Martin DB12. Stay cool this summer by plunging into a plethora of water sports. Don’t miss our one-on-one with Penélope Cruz, a woman for our times.

« BACK TO CONTENTS

24 Mesmerising Mauritius

40 MIM Sotogrande

48 Water Sports on the Coast

sspotlight

62 The New Aston Martin DB12

68 Penélope Cruz

78 The Latest on UFOs

86 Filomena and the Lynx

MESMERISING MAURITIUS

I can quite see why the American writer Mark Twain once wrote, “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven, and that heaven was copied after Mauritius.” The island is often talked about in the same breath as the Seychelles and the Maldives. However, Mauritius, the largest of the three Mascarene Islands (the other two being Rodrigues and Reunion), is the one they call the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’.

It’s just such a beautiful island and tourism now trumps both her impressive textile and her sugar cane industries as the major boon to her economy. The summer months of November to April are warm and dry with temperatures of 23-33 degrees. The winter months of May to October are cooler, at around 17-23 degrees, with the wettest months being December to March. Importantly, the island is mercifully spared the worst of the standard tropical infliction of mosquitos.

On leaving the airport

there were none of the garish advertisements promoting casinos or other touristic attractions. Instead, I was transported straight into a landscape of long, deep avenues of sugar cane ten feet high. The dips in the road added to my joy in being fully immersed. Every part of this sugar is collected and put to good use. In one particular village, the cane is turned into the sugar we all know, while other parts are used to thatch the roofs, and the remainder is turned into enough electricity to sustain almost half the villagers. ›

The Four Seasons Resort at Anahita

Snorkelling for amazing tropical fish

I reached my first accommodation, the glamorous Four Seasons Resort ( www. fourseasons.com/ mauritius ), lying on the east coast at Anahita. It comprises purely of different grades of villa, and it’s all bridges, bicycles, and buggies along fresh concrete alleyways. All thoroughly thought through.

Perfect for kids as well as perfunctory for the demands on the staff. It chiefly attracts a British clientele though Dutch, French, Chinese and Koreans make up most of the rest.

As for the villas, the

décor is made from kaff wood. There’s a pleasing inside-outside feel and my villa blended effectively into its natural environment. The scenery is stunning, and I felt rested and at peace within the calm waters of the lagoon. The trees include the glorious and quirky banyons as well as the expansive ‘travellers’ palms’ (so called from the theory that if one broke its stem, there was water inside for the traveller). The gardens have been imaginatively landscaped and the flora and fauna are vibrant and colourful among their lush greencoated leaves. ›

SERVICE FROM US TO YOU.

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The impressive Indian Ocean Breakfast was one of the classiest I have ever enjoyed with its delicatessen-style set of rooms. There’s even a separate granary. As for dining, the three restaurants offer a healthy variety for those staying a week or more. There’s the French Beau Champ that has a refined menu. The beef is delicious coming across the ocean from Australia, and the rum is particularly strong at 40% alcohol. The view from my villa was panoramic as I stared out

across the lagoon at the fishermen punting their modest crafts. The ripples barely broke the sheeted calm of the water and the waves on the reefs were several miles out. And behind was the magnificent backdrop of the exotically shaped mountains aptly called Cat and Mouse, Lions’ Head and Bambou.

It was time to go inland. Where better than the Black River Gorges National Park? It’s stunningly rich in vegetation and from a high viewpoint I looked far

beneath to see the gorge amid miles of dense, green forest. My imagination drifted and exploded. I spotted the waterfall at Chamaral, visible only from a distance, but huge. It drops a hundred metres and there is something compelling and mesmeric about the perennial pounding of water. It left me imagining just how much more dramatic it would become in the event of a rainstorm.

Slavery was the cause of the island’s most distinct cultural expression called ‘Sega’ which was once a rallying call in the form of a song and dance before evolving to incorporate a tambourine, a shaker and a triangle. Nowadays the real rhythm of Sega has been lost but it remains nonetheless the popular Mauritian dance form. As for dawn choruses, the island is alive with the presence of birds, which include the eponymous kestrel, pink pigeon, parakeet, and bulbul. All of which are most likely to be

seen in this National Park.

The hotel’s tortoises sadly didn’t put on much of a show for me as they sat lazing together as a threesome huddled in a corner. But the geometric shapes on their shells looked amazing. As for the indigenous dodo, tragically it is now famously extinct. It was a slow somewhat clumsy bird the size of a turkey, with short legs, a hook-like bill, and truncated wings that it used to defend itself. ›

The stand-alone mountain of Le Morne

I wanted to see colourful fish and the attendant coral (or for that matter the odd shipwreck), I spotted the best ones at diving spots such as Shark Place, Cathedral and Couline Bambous (off the coast of Flic-en-Flac), Colorado and Roche Zozo (near to Mahebourg). Up at the northern tip of the island my options were even better with Gunner’s Quinn, Silver Star Wreck, Stenopus Reef

and the Stella Maru wreck. The taxi driver counted his 120 bends of the road before we descended to Le Morne. It’s an impressive and august stand-alone mountain at the south-western tip of the island overlooking another exceptionally beautiful lagoon. Here, beneath this expanse, was my next hotel, Lux Le Morne ( www.luxresorts. com/en/mauritius/hotel/

luxlemorne). As the writer Bill Bryson says: “To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.” I recommend staying just a few days at any one place before moving on: you don’t end up with a routine of the same breakfast or of looking out from the same chair.

Evening light across the island

Here at Lux Le Morne stretched a seemingly endless expanse of white sand beach. All so deeply liberating as horses trot up and down loving the soft sand on their hooves. Boats are everywhere, attached to which some people paraglide, and many waterski. Mine took me to the Île aux Bénitiers and the famous Bonsai-like ‘Crystal Coral rock’. The hotel has a really special position from which to enjoy the blue from the sea against the setting of the sun and its changing palette of gold, pink and then orange as the clouds draw over the events of the day like the curtain of the ultimate theatrical performance. It’s along this beach that the water gently laps. Sadly, out to sea, the waves were too agitated for me to go and swim alongside the dolphins. ›

The beautiful turquoise water surrounding Mauritius

The rooms have a neutral décor. Lots of decking, wood and white with no need mercifully for any embellishment. The foyer is cool and clean. Outside my rooms the gardeners played ‘hook and catch’ with coconuts using an averruncator (a long stick with shears for cutting high branches). Parents love the islands in the middle of creatively shaped swimming pools from which to watch over their kids’ safety from all angles. For dining, variety comes with three restaurants: a Buffet, a Beach Café, and East, which

offers Thai cuisine. It’s where Chef Suksan Supprasert learned his trade in his aunt’s kitchen, shelling rice and peeling garlic and onions. His own speciality is the yaam per krob, a crisp roasted duck with lychee and grape.

As Mauritius is such a fertile island with everything seemingly growing at will, I had to experience the local markets. My favourite, housed under a vast vaulted roof, was the massive fruit and vegetable market at Flacq. The bursting produce was haggled over by the bustling locals. I somehow absorbed its frantic nature

after many gentle days by adorning myself with a delightful garland of bright orange marigolds. Elsewhere across the island I saw rows of pineapple and lychee fields and mango trees and coffee plants. The local method of upturned rubber boots on sticks does the trick in acting as scarecrows.

What I was so impressed by was the island’s approach to religion. This is an island comprising half of Hindi and the rest, principally of Christians and Muslims. Each Hindi house is visible from the road with its two red flags for purity and a small shrine. ›

Interestingly Tamil temples are very colourful with all their Gods depicted on the exterior, while Hindi temples depict their Gods discretely within, with only a plain red and white exterior. It is so refreshing that there is no religious discord. They live in peace and rest in peace as even their dead are all buried together in the same

cemetery regardless of their faith. › It was time to experience my next hotel, The Residence (www.cenizaro. com/theresidence/mauritius ). It’s set on the east coast on a stretch aptly called Belle Mare (from its beautiful stretch of blue water) through which I saw its white, sandy beach. ›

The gorgeous sunsets so typical on the island

A local friend!

It’s such a great stretch of sea for swimming. No spiky sand or protruding rocks. Coming off a small sugarcaned road, is a dramatic entrance of light and height that echoed the wonder of the resort. The hotel itself has an architecture that’s luxurious and stylish, grand and tasteful, with mild references as elsewhere on the island to southern France. Beneath a protruding triangular canopy all feels fresh, airy, and breezy. The colonial style has incorporated other Oriental styles with its white walls, dark wood, and greenery. It’s decorated with planters’ chairs, sepia photos of bygone years, old phones, and gramophone players, all demonstrating a

keenness to embrace their history.

The rooms have beautiful white shutters and outside there are gazebos for quiet contemplation. The few lights on the trees at night make the leaves flow like an orchestra as the palm trees flutter. A perfect environment for dining with the choice of two restaurants: The Plantation, the lovely airy outdoor hall of an original planter’s house by the beach which has a menu befitting a gourmet, and The Verandah, which offers the right variety as a highclass buffet for those who typically stay more than a week. How divine. How heavenly. How right was Mark Twain. e

ADAM HAD SUPPORT FROM WWW.HOLIDAYEXTRAS. CO.UK WHO OFFER AIRPORT LOUNGES AT ALL MAJOR UK AIRPORTS AND MANY INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS AND WAS COVERED BY MULTI AWARDWINNING TRAVEL INSURER, COVERFORYOU,  WWW.COVERFORYOU.COM

ADAM JACOT DE BOINOD WORKED ON THE FIRST SERIES OF QI THE BBC PROGRAMME WITH STEPHEN FRY, AND IS THE AUTHOR OF THE MEANING OF TINGO AND OTHER EXTRAORDINARY WORDS FROM AROUND THE WORLD, PUBLISHED BY PENGUIN BOOKS.

A flotilla of pleasure boats

PURE MEDITERRANEAN FLAIR AT THE

HOTEL MIM

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE MIM SOTOGRANDE

If you’re not into football, then you may be surprised to discover that the legendary footballer, Leo Messi, is the owner of an impressive hotel group that is increasingly expanding its reach. In January 2022, this group presented its fifth hotel – the MIM Sotogrande Club Marítimo – in a dreamlike spot that encapsulates the glamour and sea-faring spirit of Sotogrande: the Puerto Deportivo. The MIM Sotogrande is a four-star boutique establishment with 42 rooms. Bearing a captivating red facade, it is flanked by tall, elegant palm trees and enjoys beautiful views of the bobbing moored boats that speak of holidays filled with relaxation and adventure.

SO MUCH TO DO

The MIM Sotogrande is located just 30 minutes from Marbella, Puerto Banús, and Tarifa, and is conveniently close to Sotogrande’s prestigious Valderrama golf course and the Santa María Polo Club – where exciting afternoons are spent watching heartstopping polo matches. There is, of course, so much more to do here than take part in sporting activities. Gibraltar is a pleasant 20-minute drive away, and there are a myriad of leisure and dining establishments nearby. One of these is La Reserva Club Sotogrande – where in addition to playing golf, tennis, and padel, you can also dine in style at two restaurants serving fresh, seasonal delights.

REST IS THE GOAL

But let’s get back to the MIM Sotogrande. As mentioned, it has 42

rooms, comprising eight Suites, three Junior Suites, and five Privilege, 10 Superior, 7 Design, and 9 Cozy rooms. Services include a 24-hour reception, 12-hour room service, parking, and car and boat rental. The rooms bear a modern, inviting design, where light wooden hues and crisp, clean whites are married to more dramatic colours such as burgundy – which lend the spaces dynamism and warmth.

Light plays a starring role in the interiors, thanks to large windows that allow the sun to reach every corner. Noble materials abound. They connect the dweller to the earth and provide a perfect backdrop to what is undoubtedly the Hotel’s strongest pull: its proximity to the sea. Choose from a room for two to a spacious two-bedroom Suite, which boasts two bedrooms – one with a double bed and the other with separate twin beds – as well as two bathrooms. ›

IN PURSUIT OF WELLNESS

The Hotel is perfectly in tune to guests’ desire to eradicate stress while on holiday. The experienced staff are ready to turn back the hands of time and soothe aching muscles through a wide range of massages and facial treatments. The Full Vitality Spa menu includes the Lomi-Lomi Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Hot Stone Massage, Japanese Lifting Facial, Radiofrequency Facial, Reflexology, Diamond Dermabrasion, and Hyaluronic Acid Facial (to mention just a few). ›

FEEDING THE SOUL

The MIM Sotogrande is home to various food and beverage hubs. The first is Bar Fly, located on the first floor in an Andalusian patio-style setting and serving drinks. Then there is the elegant Restaurante MIDAS, where you can savour the very best of local produce and Andalusian cuisine, as well as a host of Mediterranean dishes. The Hotel also has a generous buffet breakfast zone overlooking the water and a Gelato Badiani 1932 shop, serving artisanal ice-creams made by a company that was founded in 1932.

The MIM Sotogrande also has a number of spaces for meetings and events, so if you happen to be in the area for business, why not host your event surrounded by the waters of one of the Coast’s most scenic ports?

WWW.MIMHOTELS.COM

2023 is turning out to be a hot summer, so where’s the best place to stay cool while chilling or having fun? No, not the beach – on the water! And this coast has a lot more to offer than swimming pools and beachside paddling alone. For the majority of people, interaction with water during a summer holiday on the Med is usually limited to an occasional dip in the swimming pool or some splashing around in the waves. But there’s more you can do, so much more, and it’s the best way to make the most of your holiday while also staying cool – in both senses of the word.

DOLPHIN WATCHING

If you like your refreshing time on the water to be a little more chilled and emotionally fulfilling, then why not head out with one of the yachts that go out into the Straits between the European and African continents to relax and enjoy the cooling breezes as you watch the Marbella coast and backdrop of mountains glide by. Look over the other way and you gaze at the amazing outlines of Gibraltar and North Africa, with clear blue skies and seagulls overhead. And when you spot the gracious beauty of whales or dolphins swimming

alongside you, it will be an experience you’ll never forget. Moments like this remain ingrained for their unique impact, and they’re both exciting and educational for the kids – a great way to get them off their mobiles for a while! It’s the summer version of a holiday excursion and Marbella offers a variety of yachts that will take you out to enjoy marvellous seascapes as the sun sets dramatically behind the rocky outlines of Gibraltar and colours the world in dramatic hues of pink, orange and gold.

WWW.ALQUILERVELEROSMARBELLA.COM

JETBOAT ADRENALIN

If you enjoy the adrenalin rush of extreme sports you have a bit of a problem right now as summer is not the ideal time to indulge in it. It’s just a little too hot to climb mountains, go careening down hillsides, zorbing (rolling down a hill in a transparent plastic ball) or running ultramarathons in the countryside. Come back later in the year for these experiences, but there’s no need to give up on high-octane excitement in the summer either, as there are waterbased extreme sports that are just made for June to August.

The first one that comes to mind really

is a blend of water sports and motor racing, and it happens just offshore on the Marbella coast. You’ll set out from Puerto Banús in a powerful red speed boat with a difference, something you’ll notice as the pilot turns up the heat on the open water and you begin to feel like you’ve hitched a ride in an F1 car. Flying over the water skipping the waves is one thing, but when he begins to slalom and spin around, an element of rollercoaster ride further awakens the senses. It’s not for the fainthearted, but it’s sooooo much fun!

WWW.JETBOAT.ES

WHITE WATER RAFTING

Another water sport that qualifies as an extreme one – with all the white-knuckle fun that comes with it – is white water rafting. The ‘white’ in water rafting comes from the froth created as a rapidly flowing river or mountain stream flows over rocks and pebbles, sometimes accelerating into an actual rapid. Sitting on the edge of an inflatable raft boat, you’ll be holding on as you paddle to steer the vessel down the right path.

What’s more, you do it as a team, so it’s important to get it right. It’s great for team building, groups of friends or families, and can easily be adapted for children, as white-water rafting is safe and fun in the hands of the team at OcioAventura

Cerro Gordo. They take care of everything and make it a true experience to remember on the waters of the Río Genil. Their qualified guides will instruct and manage the excursion, including lunch at a traditional rural house in a beautiful country setting. The process also includes all the equipment you need, as well as comfortable changing rooms and showers.

WWW.RAFTINGRIOGENIL.COM

JET SKI

You’ve seen them zipping across the water like the aquatic version of Formula One while you were lying on the beach. And let’s be honest, you were just a little jealous because it looked more than a little cool, with a touch of James Bond glamour as they raced in between the yachts and rode the waves. Well, there’s no reason why you can’t try it for yourself. Jet skis are available for rent in Marbella, and if you’re the active type or a bit of a speed freak, you’ll definitely enjoy the summer version of motor sports.

Jet skiing is where water and motor sports meet, and they do so on the Mediterranean right in front of Marbella. You can choose from a variety of the latest models, and while it normally requires a licence for you to take one of these bad boys out to sea and start having fun, specialised companies make it possible to bypass this step after a short introductory instruction course because you head out under the supervision of experienced jet ski pilots. Of course, if you already have a licence, just flash it and you’re on your way.

If you see a guy or girl strapped in and controlling two huge water jets that propel them across the sea don’t be alarmed. They’re not a vision from a science fiction movie or an invading army of spies but rather people just like you out to have some refreshing seaside summer fun. The difference is they’ve found out about something called flyboarding, and maybe it’s time you do too.

You could remain on your beach towel or sunbed, but why not head over to Red Fly Marbella and try out this rather amazing experience. They have all the equipment you need, will give you quick and clear instructions on how to get going, and then be there as you turn on the water jets and begin to manoeuvre upwards, left and right. It will be hilariously funny until you get the hang of it, and then it’s just great fun. A creative way of being active.

WWW.REDFLYMARBELLA.ES

CATAMARAN SAILING

If you love boats and boating, no visit to Marbella should go without a chance to see the fair town from the sea and enjoy some fresh air, a relaxed party atmosphere and the opportunity to get all jet-set and dive into the sea for a little post-lunch and Champagne frolic. For quite a few of us, this rather idyllic picture is out of the question because we tend to get a little green around the gills when bobbing around on the Med’s waves. However, there is some hope, for apart from taking antihistamines you may also find that sailing aboard a catamaran is a lot easier on the stomach.

Catamarans are more stable and do far less of the pitching and rolling that makes conventional single-hulled boats such a challenge on the senses. For many, it has become the much-desired cure to seasickness, opening the door to a whole new world of lifestyle leisure experiences, while those who are already happy on the waves tend to find catamarans a very exciting and enjoyable way of enjoying the fresh winds and fun options that the open sea offers.

WWW.ROYALCATAMARAN.COM

ST. REGIS CAP CANA

Luxury and dream residences in the Dominican paradise

Immerse yourself in the luxury and exclusivity of the residences at St. Regis Cap Cana, located in Punta Cana on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, facing one of the most captivating beaches in the world and surrounded by the spectacular Punta Espada golf course. This five-star resort is located in the destination city of Cap Cana, an exclusive community with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering an impressive array of world-class amenities.

St. Regis Cap Cana Hotel and Residences prides itself on innovative architecture that blends seamlessly with nature and the environment. Its four distinctive pillars are personalized service, immersive experiences, modern luxury and gastronomic-sensory synergy, thanks to renowned expert such as Peruvian chef Diego Muñoz. The team behind these majestic residences is known for creating luxury residential projects that exceed the expectations and needs of their owners.

With breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea from

every angle, residents will enjoy a truly unparalleled experience in a 16-acre paradise. In addition, they will have direct access to more than 800 feet of completely private beach, with spectacular views of holes one and two of the Jack Nicklaus-designed Punta Espada golf course, named the best golf course in the Caribbean by Golfweek magazine.

The Residences at The St. Regis Cap Cana are anticipated to be one of the most exclusive ownership opportunities in the Region.

1. Accessibility

Easy accessibility from US, Canada,South America and Europe with daily direct flights.

2. Location

Cap Cana, a city destination with a cinematic setting, located on the eastern shores of the Dominican Republic, recognized among the best in the Caribbean.

3. St. Regis

A leader of innovation, hotel brand annd operator. The St. Regis brand is renowned for its reputation for excellence with bespoke services and modern indulgence.

4. Amenities

An array of wonderfully extravagant yet relaxing owner amenities throughout the resort including private beach, pools, fitnness centers, family movie theater, kids lounge, library, cigar and rum lounge, the well known St Regis Bar, spectacular golf, worldclass spa, polo, fishing and horse back riding, fascinating dining experiences and an extennsive a la carte services and privileges.

5. Team

Experience development team with amazing track record and distinguished private investment partners.

The Residences at St. Regis Cap Cana offer an unparalleled opportunity in the real estate market, combining classic sophistication, modern sensibility and a paradisiacal setting with the exceptional service of St. Regis, Marriott International’s most exclusive brand. With only 70 luxury properties fully furnished and equipped to the brand’s exacting standards, these residences guarantee exclusivity, comfort and investment security. Residence options include the Beach Collection, the Golf Terrace Collection and the Astor Collection, which features spacious terraces surrounded by the turquoise blue sea. Also featured is an exclusive 20,500+ square feet penthouse with 360-degree panoramic views of all of Cap Cana.

These residences are framed by more than 30,000 acres of natural beauty, highlighting Cap Cana with its pristine beaches, varied vegetation, world-class golf course, recreational parks, an equestrian town and an incomparable marina with more than 130 docks capable of accommodating yachts up to 150 feet in length. Located just seven minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), the Residences at St. Regis Cap Cana are easily accessible to travellers from around the world. St. Regis Cap Cana is the perfect destination for those seeking a truly extraordinary living experience. Residents can enjoy carefree luxury living with renowned St. Regis hospitality. Even the distinguished professional golfer Miguel Angel Jimenez, known as ‘the mechanic’, is one of the illustrious residents who regularly visits the resort to enjoy its exclusive golf course.

Discover the residences at St. Regis Cap Cana and expect the exceptional.

St.Regis Cap Cana Residences

Tel: (+1) 809 562 5555, (+1) 480 204 7593. info@srresidencescapcana.com

ASTON MARTIN DB12

The recent signing of a deal with California-based luxury EV startup Lucid Group to provide electric motors and batteries gives us a clear indication of where the iconic British carmaker Aston Martin is headed. In the meantime, the company decided that the internal combustion engine deserved at least one final flourish and that comes in the form of the all-new DB12.

WORDS TONY WHITNEY

Aston Martins have long emblazoned many of their superlative automobiles with DB badges, ‘DB’ being the initials of tractor manufacturer Sir David Brown who can be said to have founded the modern company and pointed it in the right direction. He bought the firm in 1947 after it was advertised in a newspaper for just £20,500. Will we see a DB electric car? We’ll have to wait until 2025 when Aston Martin pulls the wraps off its first all-electric model.

Aston Martin has dubbed what is probably its V-8 swansong ‘the world’s first super tourer’ and it certainly takes the grand tourer concept a stage or two further. Following the company’s subtle way of allowing cars to evolve from a design standpoint, the DB12 looks a lot like the DB11 it replaces. Glance back over the decades and you’ll see that new Astons always looked a lot like the model they replaced. They simply became more stylish and tasteful and, of course, always packed in added performance. When it comes to design, Aston Martin has always been more closely allied to the design philosophies of Rolls Royce and Bentley than other supercar manufacturers. The svelte bodywork of the DB12 is structured from bonded aluminium so performance is maximised by plenty of weight reduction.

Under the almost unimaginably sleek bonnet lies an engine of outstanding power and refinement. It’s a 4.0-litre hand-built V-8 with a pair of turbochargers to help things along and it’s mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. To the surprise of some, there will be no V-12 version

of the DB12 despite its alphanumeric nameplate. The V-8 develops some 671-horsepower which should please just about anybody. This is a twowheel drive car and no four-wheel drive model will be offered. What the DB12 does boast is an electronic rear differential that’s linked to the car’s

stability control system, a first for a DB. Along with other electronics, these systems work in harmony to enhance cornering and stability at all speeds. The owner won’t notice that anything is happening in this seamless system but the car is agile and responsive and exceptionally competent on winding roads. Other advanced suspension technology has been added to this new Aston Martin to endow the car with the best possible combination of comfort and agility. ›

Climbing into any Aston Martin has always been a joy, again thanks to generations of designers who have stayed faithful to a formula that, as with the model’s general ambiance, is more British refined luxury than Italian supercar. Sure, the DM has its carbon fibre accents around the cabin, but the overall ambiance is more understated opulence than high tech vulgarity. The dominant material is fine leather and the overall impression is that there are lots of traditional switches and dials, but the cockpit is as advanced as anything in this

class. The instrument panel is digital and there’s the usual big touch screen for infotainment but the tech effect is not overwhelming. The sound system is by Bowers & Wilkins, a new partner of Aston Martin.

The new DB12 V-8 will be almost impossible to improve on and at all events, Aston Martin may never try as it segues into the electric mobility age and focuses in that direction. A convertible Volante model is likely to appear in the next year or two but that’s the only variation we’ll probably see. e

» ENGINE 4.0-litre 671-horsepower twin-turbo V-8.

» TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic.

» ACCELERATION Zero to 100 km/h 3.6-seconds.

» TOP SPEED 325-km/h.

» I LIKED Superbly graceful styling and overall Aston Martin ambiance. Outstanding performance and handling. Restrained use of electronics in cockpit.

» I DIDN’T LIKE Some Aston fans will rue the fact that this car did not launch with a V-12 engine, but the V-8 is a potent powerplant by any standards.

» MARKET ALTERNATIVES Bentley Continental, Ferrari Roma, Lamborghini Urus, and Mercedes-Benz AMG G 63.

» WHO DRIVES ONE? Long time lovers of the Aston Martin brand will be the first in line for a DB12 but the car has such eye appeal and performance it could attract buyers from all kinds of rival marques.

» PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

€232.500, available third quarter 2023.

What can you say about Penélope Cruz that hasn’t been said before? One of the most successful Spanish cinema exports in history, with an Oscar win and three further nominations, she is certainly up there with bestEurope’s ever.

PENÉLOPE CRUZ

A WOMAN FOR OUR TIMES

Eight movie collaborations with the auteur and prolific independent film director, Pedro Almodóvar, saw her receive two of those nods from the Academy Awards and, in turn, her stock soared and eventually Cruz would grab that elusive figurine.

That Best Supporting Actress gong came following her performance in the 2009 Woody Allen film Vicky Cristina Barcelona, and would also coincidentally signal the start of a relationship which is still going strong to this day, with Javier Bardem, who was the male lead in the movie.

Married in 2010, the Spanish cinema heavyweights are notoriously private when it comes to their family, and indeed moved back to the Spanish capital of Madrid over a decade ago,

with their two children Leo 12, and Luna 9.

Cruz chats about the importance of her loved ones, the balance between home and work life over the course of her career, opportunities in the industry, the production company she set up, and her decision process of which roles she chooses, and which are passed over.

You played an ex-patriate Spaniard living in Italy in Emanuele Crialese’s L’immensità, which must have been much easier being Spanish yourself. However, you’ll be playing an Italian in your upcoming movie, Ferrari. Yes, that’s right and it’s for the Michael Mann film based on the life of Enzo Ferrari. It’s in English, but I play the wife of Enzo and I’ve tried to get my Italian accent right as best I can.

I felt right at home in Italy,

and I think that there are a lot of favourable comparisons which can be made between Spain and Italy, mainly that family is so important to those people of both nationalities.

As family is incredibly important to me – the most single important thing in my life – I can relate to that, no end. So, it was fairly easy to slip into that role, eventually! ›

With that in mind, you’ve played so many mothers or starred in films which revolved around women as the main characters. Does that influence your choices when you take roles such as those?

As this film is about Enzo Ferrari, it does centre around him, but also how vital his wife Laura was in him being able to achieve what he went on to give the world. His name is instantly recognisable – maybe one of the most-famous surnames of the last century.

However, you’re right to say that a lot of the previous roles I’ve portrayed have featured women as the star of the piece. Italian and Spanish cinema does a lot of that, and it’s been a long time coming for the Western world to understand that women have a lot to offer – not just in film, but in all industries. ›

Pirates of the Caribbean

Do you favour these roles yourself, as in would you elevate one certain script above the other if the movie had a female lead instead of you being just a supporting character?

Well, I created Moonlyon in an attempt to supply more female stories which were thought-provoking and created more lead opportunities in film for women. However, the production company is reliant upon the scripts we receive.

I’ve never taken it as read that I am always going to be offered parts like these, which fascinate me, and persuade me to take up the roles. In fact, I have always found it to be a privilege that directors like Michael Mann and Pedro Almodóvar feel I am right for their films.

Even though you’re approaching 100 acting credits, how difficult is it to say no and how often have you done so in the past?

You certainly can’t say yes to every part which comes your way because it’s impossible to fulfil them all. Sometimes it’s easy to say no, without disrespecting the person or people involved and I have learnt over time that it can be better.

Earlier in my career, I got so many offers and as some people had been impressed with what I had done up to that point, I was in demand. I don’t say that with an ego, more the opposite.

It left me not knowing what to do and which person to say yes to and who to politely say: ‘thanks, but no thanks.’ It’s helped me a lot over time, though, and thankfully I’ve not suffered in the offers drying up.

Is it more difficult playing someone from real life, when you know them? Or easier?

Probably it’s more difficult. Playing someone who is real and alive is a huge responsibility but playing someone who you’ve met, it’s very intimidating.

And,

what’s

the difference between Spanish and Italian films and Hollywood, besides the obvious?

In America, the budgets are bigger and it’s like it has to be louder, more razzmatazz, but also longer shoots. In Spain and Italy, as I said earlier, there are lot of similarities in terms of how people treat each other, how they work and what is expected of you.

When you work for great directors who have respect, who have understanding and know exactly how to get the best out of everyone and are respected by everyone else there, it doesn’t matter where they are from or where you film.

So, I would say that it’s more about the type of people that you work with and the way they are to work for. If you’re good at what you do and you’re a nice person, that matters more to me than anything else.

“EVERY DAY I UNDERSTAND MORE ABOUT LIFE AND I LEARN A LITTLE MORE ABOUT WHO I AM WHICH IS ALWAYS THE BIGGEST QUESTION. BUT I FEEL GOOD. I HAVE A BEAUTIFUL FAMILY AND A JOB THAT I LOVE, AND WHICH GIVES ME A LOT OF FREEDOM”

Both you and your husband are actors; is scheduling a problem for you to both find that balance with your family?

I think we are very lucky in our professions to have the capability of bringing our family to work with us. Not many parents have the same luxury or flexibility, it’s an advantage you cherish. When they were younger, it was not so easy to move around as a unit, it was too disruptive, but it’s much easier now.

What makes up your decision process when you’re deciding on a project that will take you away from your family?

It has to be very special because I don’t want to be missing from my family.

You’ve always been a hugely disciplined person and I read that you were a ballerina who would train until your feet bled. While that is fairly extreme, what has that experience taught you?

I suppose that my work ethic has guided me as an actress, and I

will always throw myself into every performance. Before I became a mother, I used to cut myself no slack and force myself to focus, concentrate and reach the level I felt was required in every role.

However, when I married Javier, and we now have two beautiful children, I certainly readjusted my priorities accordingly. I think the love of my children and my partner has made me happy.

Even before I became a mother I had decided to quit being addicted to my work. I was working so much, sometimes doing five films in twelve months, that I didn’t even have time anymore to prepare for each role, which is one of things I love most about acting. Also, it reached a point where I didn’t have a life, and that scared me. Now I have a much more comfortable rhythm. When you’re raising two small children, you need a better balance. ›

What has being a mother meant to you?

Everything changes the second you become a parent. You start seeing the world through different eyes. It’s a revolutionary change. It even changes your relationship with nature. You experience many things for the first time again. That’s the real beauty of it. You get to revisit your own childhood because now you’re experiencing it with your own children.

Even though you’ve said many times before that you don’t really think about being considered one of the most beautiful women in film, what do you do in terms of taking care of yourself?

I drink a lot of water and try to get a good night’s sleep even though that’s difficult with young children. Since I’ve become a mother, I have

a more womanly body now. Your body changes when you go through this life-giving event, and it’s something magical.

I try to stay in good shape, but I don’t obsess about it. I usually I go to the gym with friends, and I love swimming and diving. I enjoy cooking and eating well, and I never go on extreme diets. I’m more careful of what I eat, but I love food and that will always be one of my great pleasures in life.

Also, just addressing the fact that you do work both in Europe and America and there aren’t a huge amount of people who can say that, how proud do you feel about that?

I feel very fortunate... to be able to work in all kinds of projects, the small independent films and the

bigger studio films.

To be able to combine all of this, to work in four languages, I feel very privileged to have all these opportunities to work with talented directors and actors. I have to pinch myself sometimes and promise myself to never take it for granted.

You moved back to Madrid about ten years ago. Are you able to go out in the city without being stopped every minute by your fans?

I’m able to go everywhere. I go shopping at the supermarket, the pharmacy, and I go to see movies. Sometimes people will stop to talk to me and ask me to take a selfie with them, but usually they are very kind and friendly. It’s a pleasure for me to be able to have that contact.

How would you describe your life these days?

Every day I understand more about life and I learn a little more about who I am which is always the biggest question. But I feel good. I have a beautiful family and a job that I love, and which gives me a lot of freedom. I feel very grateful. e

It is claimed by some that much of our technology is based upon reverse engineered alien craft

UFOS

After decades during which the public fascination with UFOs and aliens in general was either ignored by the authorities or said to be based upon fantasy, there is a sudden spate of information sharing by officialdom that boggles the mind. The possibility that there may be alien life out there after all is actually only a little more intriguing than this sudden about turn by the US government and military establishment.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASH & ADOBESTOCK

IS THE TRUTH OUT THERE?

such as the 1938 radio adaptation of H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds and the 1947 Roswell Incident caused a stir among the public.

It wasn’t long after we took to the skies and began to conquer our own aerial realm that humans began to wonder about craft that could penetrate the earth’s atmosphere and jet between the stars. The focus here was as much upon people travelling beyond our own world as it was about extraterrestrial creatures venturing into it. Looking back, it seems that this fascination is a product of the 1930s and 1940s, when events

Thus was born the era of science fiction, which focused on semiserious literature and comics, later also movies, television series and entire merchandising franchises, not to mention a subculture of people obsessed with the topic. From Star Trek to the 1969 Moon landings –which some claim never happened – the mania continued unabated, despite attempts by the authorities to discourage belief in alien craft. By the early 1950s, the American military and intelligence agencies already deemed

it necessary to recruit the media for this purpose, using popular TV programmes to explain that UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects) are a figment of the imagination.

FROM DENIAL TO DISCLOSURE

So, after decades of consistent denial from scientists and officials alike, there seems to be a radical change in opinion, among government and military departments at least. Suddenly, large volumes of documents and information about unexplained sightings and on-going investigations are being shared with us – the very same public that has been kept in the dark about all things unidentified for over half a century now. ›

There are hundreds of sightings each year, and many remain unexplained

Naturally, the vast majority of sightings have been shown to be hoaxes, optical illusions or natural phenomena, but enough doubt remains in the eyes of the public to maintain an unfailing interest. In fact, the more the authorities have denied or ignored the topic, the more some have been inclined to believe that something has been kept from us. And indeed, governments around the world have investigated UFOs and UAPs (Unexplained Aerial

Phenomena) on numerous occasions, spanning decades from the 1940s right up to the present moment.

The US government even has two agencies dedicated to the study of such phenomena: the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office and the UAP Independent Study Team, of NASA no less, while there are official organisations in other countries ranging from Russia and Brazil to the UK and France, whose GEPAN research and information

group falls under the French Space Agency. Like similar agencies in other large nations, the US centralises all information about sightings in a central database for further study and comparison. Information of this kind was strictly off limits to the populace at large for the entire second half of the twentieth century, when even a curious President Bill Clinton was either not allowed to learn about ‘the truth that is out there’ or disclose it. ›

LUXURIOUS SERVICED LIVING AT THE SEA.

THE FLAG Costa del Sol

C. Trajano 16, 29688 Estepona

www.the-flag.es

Since the beginning of this century/millennium, freedom of information acts and the maturing of secrecy restrictions have seen a lot of this information become available to the public, albeit in times heavily redacted, but gradually the amount of data being shared has pointed to a new official stance on UFOs and UAPs – and while the majority of the research successfully explains the thousands of sightings and anomalies, many hundreds

remain a mystery. In fact, the study reports that organisations such as GEPAN admit that up to more than one in four of all reported cases cannot be explained away.

Unusual visions in the skies above us have been seen and reported for thousands of years, making it into most of the ancient historical references that illuminate the world of our ancestors, but modern technology has made it ever easier for people to

create hoax material on the one hand, and record strange occurrences on the other. A proper sighting these days is filmed rather than described, and just recently the armed forces of several nations, the USA included, have begun to share footage of their close encounters of the third kind.

There are people who even claim to have met aliens © Unsplash Artem Kovalev

Are there aliens? Or are they already among us?

A CHANGE IN OFFICIAL STANCE

After so many years of secrecy and silence, suddenly we’re awash with videos, documents and reports that seem to take UFOs seriously and question the possibility of extraterrestrials visiting our lonely planet. Along with the flow of new material has come a flood of whistleblowers and experts, even officials, talking openly about UFO research projects and even government cover-ups. They claim that the US military in particular has based much of its technological prowess over the past decades on the reverse engineering of advanced alien crafts that they’ve been able to

reassemble from crash sites. It’s a lot to take in when for most of our lives we felt we were indulging in a little scifi fantasy, but now the genie is out of the bottle, and it will be hard to cork it again. The Pentagon is putting it out there that everything from air force pilots to naval personnel and astronauts have reported sightings, and when even former Apollo 14 astronaut, Dr. Edgar Mitchell claims that he knows of major government officials leading studies into alien craft, the conspiracies about secret government interaction with extraterrestrials begin to abound. ›

As more information is officially shared along with witnesses coming forward, the clamour for a large public investigation grows. Polls suggest up to 80% of people believe governments have been withholding information, so a new congressional hearing on the UFO subject is likely to have some softening PR effect as well as hopefully providing us with a ‘now or never’ moment on the truth of the matter. The report will almost certainly make for interesting reading, especially against a background where many claim that the authorities

have known of and been dealing with ‘aliens’ for decades now.

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE –SOMEWHERE

Yet, in spite of an apparent move to openness by those with the means to know more, there is no guarantee that this potentially historic moment will come to pass – by which I mean any real conclusions regarding the existence of either alien space craft or the aliens themselves. We could be upon the threshold of one of the most exciting moments in human history

– if the existence of aliens is confirmed – not to mention technologies that are purported to bend time and space, but even as we become excited by this prospect, however remote it may be, we should also take a moment to question the sudden change of heart by those who govern us.

For decades, governments have been highly secretive about alien and UFO topics © Unsplash Alberto Antony

Many are the claims that they have covered up what they now seem so keen to share, and while some argue that they’re coming clean because of a new spirit of transparency or the fact that modern technology makes it increasingly difficult to hide things from billions of people with mobile phone cameras at the ready, there are also sceptics who believe the motives are somewhat more sinister.

They believe the timing of the disclosures coincides with many other mediamanipulated events that are designed to distract us from the big changes the world is undergoing. The latter relate primarily to the transition of the world we know into a digitalised one where citizen surveillance and control, the introduction of an AI-based economy and reduced freedom of movement, financial independence and

Some believe we have been visited and observed for millennia

the ability to express oneself will soon become the new reality.

Whichever of the various scenarios turns out to be the truth, we’re not very likely to find out, for even though this is an exciting moment where we are tantalisingly close to a long awaited-for revelation one way or the other, secrecy is too well embedded in our world to give itself up so easily. e

FILOMENA AND THE LYNX

We interview José María Finat, a wildlife photographer and owner of El Castañar. He is a dedicated naturalist and speaks from his deep love and knowledge of the countryside where he grew up. His photographs range from wide open landscapes to the smallest creatures, bringing to our eyes the unparalleled beauty of nature. All looks wonderful on the surface, yet the underlying issues cannot be ignored.

WORDS

CRISTINA FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY JOSÉ MARÍA FINAT

Barely an hour’s drive from Madrid, sprawling over the rolling hills of Toledo we find the most beautiful coun try estate, Finca El Castañar. The Palace is surrounded by a uniquely well-preserved ecosystem, an outstanding example of what the Mediterranean forest should be. Known as ‘the mosaic landscape’, it combines woods, pastures, wetlands, and an array of agricultural uses over relatively small patches, allowing for an outstanding biodiversity to flourish. Sadly enough, such spaces are being lost to

intensive agriculture, a single crop for miles on end, or to the modern cruelty of macro-farms, thus wiping out entire eco-systems at an alarming rate.

You’ve had numerous followers on social media for years now, why did you start taking and sharing your photographs?

I started taking pictures for my own personal, aesthetical pleasure, sharing them with friends. However, I soon realised they had a wider impact: followers showed concern for conservation and that, through my images, I could create awareness of the crisis the Mediterranean forest was undergoing. ›

In the case of Filomena and the Lynx, I needed to tell the story of anguish the animals went through after the snowstorm and freezing temperatures we experienced between the 6th and the 15th January 2021, unprecedent in the area. I was out and about when I came across a starving lynx in his hunt for a rabbit. In his despair, the animal confronted me, a totally unusual behaviour,

but in his mind, it was either his survival or mine.

The fact that a lynx confronts a human tells you how badly things are going: it was my turning point. For years I had seen species in decline in their number and variety. We had never experienced storms like Filomena or the freezing Dana storm we had in September 2021.

The worst impact comes however from

the increasing pressure that human populations put on the environment. There is no end, and it’s only getting worse: a good example is our rivers, flooded by tourists in the summer. Unfortunately, conservation requires funding, and some initiatives hardly yield votes, despite being essential for the environment.

The pictures in your book are truly unusual: wild bulls and lynx half-buried in snow, together with some fantastic sequences.

The snowstorm lasted for some three days, followed by temperatures of -15ºC: the soft, deep blanket developed a brittle, icy crust, a new environment the animals had to learn to cope with if they wanted to survive. At first the lynx sank into the snow, the rabbits being lighter teasing them on the crust. After days of hunger, the snow

started melting under the oaks and all the lynx needed was to wait for the rabbits to get close enough. Apart from these extreme situations, climate change is having a broader impact. Look at the storks: these large birds aren’t migrating as they used to, but are staying for the whole year. As a result, reptile, snake and amphibian populations, their natural prey, are being lost at alarming rates, deprived of the annual pause for recovery.

The latter part of the book shows the spring, summer and autumn that followed. I had to compress the three seasons into a few images. Filomena gave way to a bountiful spring, but again in November and December we were experiencing unusually high temperatures. I include a picture taken then, of a snake that is normally last seen in September before hibernating.

You offered your estate for the reintroduction of the Iberian lynx as well as the imperial eagle. Tell me more about it. We allow them to set the animals free on our estate, which offers the basics they need to thrive. In the case of the lynx, it preys mostly on small mammals, such as hares and rabbits. These in turn need sufficient green pasture to prosper. ›

In areas of Spain, an effort has been made to reduce rabbit populations, however they are the staple food for many species. Problems come too from an excess of wild boar, deer and other ungulates, kept as game. Hunting is a sport and a business, but too many of any species implies a severe toll on others: beetles, grasshoppers, land tortoises, hedgehogs or weasels, all are in clear decline.

The first lynx were released in 2015, a female called Kuna, which stayed, and two males, Karl and Kentaro, Karl was run over by a car in Huelva, and Kentaro, after visiting Guadalajara, died on a road in Oporto, in Portugal. We currently have some forty lynx on the estate.

In your other absolutely beautiful book, Magisterium Naturae, you mention a few simple ways to help the animals. What would be the best way to help the lynx?

Yes indeed, we can avoid reptiles and small mammals from drowning in our artificially created ponds and reservoirs by simply placing stones or sticks so they can climb out of them. In the case of the lynx, most

premature deaths are the result of road accidents.

In general, all animals would benefit greatly if they had ample, safe road crossings. These are unfortunately non-existent as of today, and don’t seem to appear in the plans to build new roads.

I cannot avoid feeling we are only creating large zoos, under the Red Natura label, confining

the animals to them. This is not the solution if we want to preserve a healthy biodiversity. Protected areas have all sorts of restrictions, but not so the rest of the country. The animals need huge open spaces, and safe corridors to travel between them, allowing for the required genetic exchange. Our own survival and future depends on theirs. e

Tailor-make the trip of your dreams with travel itinerary experts, Inspiring Soho. Be inspired in your barbecuing this summer. Review the latest films and series hitting screens this month, and see what’s trending here in Spain and further afield.

what’s cool?

COMPILED BY IAIN BLACKWELL

PAGANI AT THE GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

Pagani Automobili showcased two spectacular new models of the Utopia and two of the Huayra R at the recent Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, England. The Utopia, a Hypercar distinguished by an exposed carbon fibre finish called ‘Dark Amber’, attracted a lot of attention in the Supercar Paddock among the thousands of automotive enthusiasts attending the four-day event. WWW.PAGANI.COM

KAORI – VICTOR PLANAS ASIAN CONCEPT

Recognised as a national reference in Spain, Chef Víctor Planas will helm the kitchen at the new Kaori restaurant in the five-star Fariones Hotel in Lanzarote. With his profound knowledge of Japanese cuisine and his rich multicultural experience, Victor intends to forge a reputation for the perfect coexistence of tradition and the avant-garde in a contemporary gastronomic experience.

TATEL IBIZA

Famed for its Madrid, Beverly Hills and Doha locations, TATEL Ibiza is the place to be this summer on the party island. Enjoy sophisticated and elevated cuisine masterminded by Chef Ruben Pradana, with an enticing array of signature cocktails in an ambience enhanced by live entertainment with exclusive shows featuring talented artists, musicians and DJs.

GIN MARE – EVOKING THE MEDITERRANEAN

Inspired by the latin, Mare Nostrum (Our Sea), the Roman name for the Mediterranean Sea, Gin Mare is made by specialist artisans from premium botanicals which are 100 per cent Mediterranean in origen. Having encapsulated an essence of the Mediterranean in every bottle, Gin Mare purports to enlighten the world with the values that define its culture and lifestyle.

WWW.GINMARE.COM

WWW.TATELRESTAURANTS.COM/IBIZA-RESTO

BROKEN SHAKER – MADRID

Following its success in Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York, being part of the 50 Best Bars list and winner of the Best American Hotel Bar Award in Tales of The Cocktail, Broken Shaker invites you to survey the Madrid skyline from its exclusive location on the rooftop of the Hotel Generator. The new venue has been transformed into an urban tropical oasis that offers a refreshing funky vibe.

WWW.BROKENSHAKER.COM/LOCATION/MADRID

BODEGAS JOSÉ PARIENTE FINCA LAS COMAS

Fincas Las Comas by Bodegas José Pariente is an exclusive Verdejo with a great ageing capacity that is only elaborated in years that produce exceptional vintages. The grapes, which are hand picked from vines growing on a hundred-year-old plot, undergo a rigorous selection process. Although only marketed for the first time in 2019, it has obtained a notable recognition from both Robert Parker and the Guía Peñín.

WWW.JOSEPARIENTE.COM

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVALS OF ARCHITECTURE

Affording visitors the opportunity to see the interiors of some of the most iconic buildings in the city, Open House Sevilla returns with its second edition on October 20-22, coinciding with Open House New York. This follows Open House Madrid, which will take place on September 21-24. To complete this cultural trilogy, the third edition of Málaga open house will run from November 24-26.

MÁLAGA – BEST DESTINATION AWARD

Málaga has been recognised as the Best National Destination 2023 by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, whose editors encapsulated its virtues thus, “The city where everyone wants to live. Its ideal size, its almost 3,000 hours of annual sunshine, its good connections with the rest of Spain, its commitment to technological innovation, and its extraordinary cultural and gastronomic offers.”

WWW.TRAVELER.ES

WWW.OPENHOUSEWORLDWIDE.ORG

The Madlives: Disconnect from everyday life and reconnect with yourself on the world’s best beaches

INSPIRING SOHO

UNLEASH YOUR WANDERLUST WITH INSPIRING BESPOKE TRAVEL ITINERARIES

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY INSPIRING SOHO

“THE WORLD IS A BOOK, AND THOSE WHO DO NOT TRAVEL READ ONLY ONE PAGE.” ST. AUGUSTINE

In the world of luxury travel, globetrotters are increasingly seeking experiences that surpass their expectations and redefine the meaning of indulgence. The ultimate way to achieve this aim, is through personal, tailor-made itineraries that cater to your exact preferences – from your chosen destination to the activities you wish to experience. Inspiring Soho, founded by globetrotter, Fernando Márquez de la Plata, was established to do

just that – to design private, exclusive, unique trips for travellers seeking services such as local guides, boutique hotels, and the chance to see some of the most impressive and inspiring parts of the planet. For discerning clients, the ultimate wish is often to combine natural, cultural, and adventure experiences with the latest in luxury personalised service.

INSPIRED BEGINNINGS

Inspiring Soho (which is based in Málaga and

Madrid) was founded during a challenging time from a business perspective –in early 2020. Fernando states, “This was obviously a difficult year, yet we adapted well, and have grown consistently over the past three years. We started with three staff members and now have 14 people on the team. Ironically, the pandemic gave us time to define ourselves and refine our offerings, and it also taught us how to maximise safety for our clients.” ›

Butan: Explore this hidden treasure in Asia

TYPES OF TRAVEL

Fernando tells me that around 50 per cent of Inspiring Soho’s clientele comprise honeymooners wishing to take the trip of a lifetime, though the company also offers group and corporate travel. “Some of our first clients were honeymooners who didn’t want the global situation to stop them from seeing the world together. We organise many romantic escapades for couples. For instance, one couple enjoyed a private, torch-lit dinner on the beach in Mozambique.” Little by little, says Fernando, the company began receiving a demand for group and corporate voyages. What’s more, the team doesn’t only organise tailor-made trips

abroad, but also within Spain, encouraging travellers to enjoy its culture and gastronomy.

THE MAGIC IS IN THE PLANNING

Inspiring Soho matches their clients’ dreams up with the reality of their expedition, doing so through meticulous planning. “Usually, we have a first meeting with our clients, in which we share information about unique areas and show them photographs, so they can get a feel for different places. Next, we go through a process of refinement. Clients hardly ever go with their first idea. Usually, we present around five or six proposals until we find the perfect match.”

WHAT SERVICES DO CLIENTS CRAVE?

Inspiring Soho can fulfil just about any demand clients desire, and they have done so through services such as private chefs, guided visits to unique spots known only to locals, gastronomic tours, wine-tastings, romantic getaways, and more. Clients have considerable freedom to live their adventure in the way that most appeals. Fernando explains, “Some trips are inherently more structured than others. For instance, if you are travelling to Egypt, then your trip will probably be more tightly planned. However, if you are visiting Japan, then you will undoubtedly want to spend some time walking around.”

The Arctic: Sail along the icy waters of the Arctic in luxury

The team also advises clients regarding ideal trip lengths to enable them to see the best their chosen destinations have to offer. Fernando tells me that while you can see the best of Jordan in six or seven days, and you can capture the magic of Rome in as little as a weekend, it is typical to enjoy Africa for between 17 days to a month!

MAGICAL DESTINATIONS

If you check out Inspiring Soho’s website, you will see that there are no predetermined package tours in existence. This is because literally every trip is crafted alongside the client. Expect to be very surprised by the team’s vast knowledge. Some of the most amazing destinations Inspiring Soho’s clients have visited include the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda (to see the beautiful mountain gorillas), Svalbard Islands in Norway (to see polar bears), and the Dendera Temple Complex in Egypt. Fernando says, “Most people know about the main tombs in Egypt, but Dendera has beautiful multi-coloured interiors that are well worth visiting.” Indeed, you can expect to be introduced to many new, off-thebeaten track discoveries thanks to the vast knowledge of this specialised team. If you’re ready to take the voyage of your lifetime or open your mind to see parts of the world you never knew existed, then consider Inspiring Soho as the first step of your journey.

Uganda: Get up-close to the gorillas from the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Scotland: Magic and legends in a trip filled with inspirations

WANDERLOVE INSIGHTS INTO SUSTAINABLE ONLINE SHOPPING FROM NATALIA OF

The world of fashion is teetering on the brink of change. Amid the swirling vortex of fast fashion and disposable trends, there’s a new narrative emerging – one of mindful consumption and sustainability. Natalia, a trailblazer in this movement and co-founder of the sustainable fashion brand, Wanderlove, is one of those leading the charge.

WORDS JENNIFER PELEGRIN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WANDERLOVE

MARISA CUTILLAS

Born from an adventurous trip to Asia in 2012/2013, Wanderlove was not a calculated business venture but a voyage of discovery. Natalia and her team chanced upon small tailoring houses, artisans, and families crafting beautiful, unique pieces. This discovery sparked an idea – to create a small collection of clothing that captured the essence of these artisans’ craft. The collection was a hit, and what began as a small project gradually blossomed into the brand it is today, Wanderlove. Wanderlove is about redefining norms and proving that fashion can be both sustainable and stylish. But beyond the brand’s ethos, Natalia is eager to share her insights into sustainable online shopping, demonstrating how anyone can make eco-friendly choices when buying clothing online.

RESEARCH IS KEY

The first step towards sustainable shopping, according to Natalia, is

research. Understanding a brand’s ethos, materials, and production process provides insight into its commitment to sustainability. Empowered with this knowledge, consumers can make informed decisions, favouring brands that align with their values.

CHOOSING VERSATILITY AND LONGEVITY

Next, Natalia emphasises the importance of versatility and longevity. She urges consumers to visualise wearing the piece throughout the year

and evaluate if it complements their style. In a sustainable wardrobe, transient trends are supplanted by timeless pieces that withstand the test of time.

SIZE MATTERS

When shopping online, understanding the product’s sizing is crucial. Natalia advises customers to confirm sizes before making a purchase. Unnecessary returns and exchanges exacerbate carbon emissions due to shipping, countering the sustainable intent. ›

BEWARE OF GREENWASHING

As sustainability becomes fashionable, greenwashing –where companies falsely claim to be sustainable – is a growing concern. Natalia encourages consumers to interrogate brands about their practices and be wary of mass producers claiming to be ‘green.’

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS AND MINDFUL PACKAGING

She underscores the significance of sustainable packaging and conscientious return policies, advising

shoppers to patronise brands that employ sustainable materials and adopt ecofriendly packaging. As an exemplar, Wanderlove employs compostable packaging, substantially diminishing its plastic footprint.

CONSCIOUS CONSUMPTION

Above all, Natalia champions conscious consumption. She urges consumers to consider the broader implications of their purchases. Each buying decision should be well-considered, examining not just the item but its global impact.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE IN SIGHT

For Natalia, Wanderlove is more than a brand – it’s a catalyst for global change. She emphasises the need to reduce consumption, invest in high-quality, sustainable pieces, and understand our financial decisions’ ecological implications.

Looking forward, Natalia envisions a world where the textile industry is revolutionised, plastic usage is eradicated, and waste from overproduction is significantly reduced. “Fashion has to be sustainable. There’s no other way,” she asserts.

Turning towards the future, she brims with enthusiasm for Wanderlove’s forthcoming ventures. These include aligning celebrations with lunar cycles and solar changes, offering surprise rewards for conscientious customers, and maintaining an unshakeable commitment to sustainability.

She shares practical advice to increase the lifespan of clothes, such as using chemical-free detergents, opting for lower temperature washes, and reducing overwashing. For clothes featuring natural dyes, she suggests adding salt to the wash to preserve their vibrant colours.

Her conversation transcends the journey of Wanderlove; it equips consumers with knowledge to embrace sustainability in online shopping, demonstrating how each mindful decision paves the way for a greener future in fashion. With this shared understanding, Natalia and Wanderlove remain steadfast in their mission, striving towards a fashion industry where sustainability is the norm, not merely a passing trend.

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

HOT NEW MOVIES

SPINNING GOLD

» Genre: Biopic

» Director: Timothy Scott Bogart (Marian)

» Cast: Jeremy Jordan, Michelle Monaghan, Jay Pharaoh

This is the true story of one of the music industry’s most colourful and talented producers: Nick Bogart – a man who guided performers like Donna Summer, The Village People, and KISS on their journey to fame. Bogart was the founder of Casablanca Records – a company that let creative insanity and a passionate belief in music guide its every move. The film features some of today’s hottest musicians, who play the icons that inspired them to greatness. Watch out for Wiz Khalifa as George Clinton, Jason Derulo as Ron Isley of the Isley Brothers, and multiGrammy award-winner, Ledisi as Gladys Knight.

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

BLUE BEETLE

» Genre: Superhero

» Director: Angel Manuel Soto (Charm City Kings)

» Cast: Xolo Maridueña, Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Raoul

Max Trujillo

This highly awaited superhero flick is based on the DC character, Jaime Reyes. Upon returning to his hometown after his college graduation, he is chosen to become a symbiotic host to the Scarab –an ancient alien biotechnological relic that grants him a powerful exoskeleton armour. As he transforms into the Blue Beetle, he discovers powers that enable him to make a big difference to his community and the world at large.

GRAN TURISMO

» Genre: Biopic

» Director: Neill Blomkamp (Chappie)

» Cast: Archie Madekwe, David Harbour

Gran Turismo is the true-life story of Jann Mardenborough – a GT player who wins a series of competitions that help him become a real-life racing car driver. The man who helps make his dream come true is Jack Salter – a trainer who believes in Mardenborough’s talent like nobody else. If you are a GT player yourself, take note – the film will feature the high-octane racing that the game franchise is famed for.

STRAYS

» Genre: Comedy

» Director: Josh Greenbaum (Becoming Bond)

» Voices: Will Ferrell, Jamie Fox, Isla Fisher

A friendly Border Terrier called Reggie is abandoned by his ruthless owner, Doug – an animal-hating drug addict who never wanted a pet. Reggie had always thought Doug was ‘the best owner in the world’ until he meets a Boston Terrier called Bug (Jamie Foxx), who informs him that Doug has actually dumped him. Reggie is determined to get his revenge on Doug and he enlists the help of his new crew of strays to do so.

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES: MUTANT MAYHEM

» Genre: 3D Animation

» Directors: Jeff Rowe (Gravity Falls), Kyler Spears (Amphibia)

» Voices: Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Jeff Rowe

After years in hiding, the Turtle brothers set out to earn the trust of New Yorkers – and they want nothing more than to be accepted as normal teenagers. Their new friend, April O’Neil, helps them battle a mysterious crime syndicate, but they realise they are in way over their heads when an army of mutants challenges them to a fight. The turtles will do anything to be accepted and fit in, yet what is required of them is a level of effort and sacrifice that is hard to muster when you’re just a teen. e

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

HOT NEW SERIES

THE LINCOLN LAWYER S2, PART 2 (NETFLIX)

» Genre: Crime

» Creator: David E. Kelley (The Practice), Ted Humphrey (The Good Wife)

» Cast: Manuel García-Rulfo, Neve Campbell, Becki Newton

The Lincoln Lawyer Season 2 is based on one of the six novels in Michael Connelly’s series. This time, legal eagle, Mickey, has shifted to foreclosure defence law to pay his bills. It all goes smoothly until one of his clients is accused of murder. All evidence seems to indicate his client is guilty, but Mickey uses his smarts to uncover an inconvenient truth.

STAR WARS: AHSOKA S1 (DISNEY+)

» Genre: Science Fiction

» Creators: George Lucas (Star Wars) and Dave Filoni (The Mandalorian)

» Cast: Rosario Dawson, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, Hayden Christensen This hotly awaited series investigates an emerging threat to the galaxy following the fall of the Empire. Rosario Dawson plays Ahsoka Tano – a former Jedi Padawan who was an apprentice to Anakin Skywalker. Joining her is Sabine Wren (played by Natasha Liu Bordizzo) – a Mandalorian warrior and graffiti artist who is an expert on explosives. Hayden Christensen plays Anakin Skywalker – the famed Jedi master who fell to the dark side of the force and transformed into Darth Vader.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL S4 (DISNEY+)

» Genre: Teen Musical

» Creator: Tim Federle (Ferdinand)

» Cast: Joshua Bassett, Sofia Wylie, Julia Lester

This is the fourth and final season of the High School Musical series. It begins with the East High drama club returning to school to star in a stage adaptation of the 2008 film, High School Musical 3: Senior Year. If you are a fan of this franchise, then you’ll be delighted to discover that all the songs from High School Musical 3: Senior Year will be performed, in addition to brand-new tunes that are guaranteed to make you get up and dance!

HARLAN COBEN’S SHELTER S1 (PRIME VIDEO)

» Genre: Crime

» Creator: Harlan Coben (The Five)

» Cast: Jaden Michael, Constance Zimmer, Abby Corigan

An adaptation of Harlan Coben’s best-selling mystery novel whose protagonist is Mickey Boltar – a young man with a dead father, a mother in rehab, a meddling aunt, and a new school in New Jersey. As if all that wasn’t bad enough, his girlfriend, Ashley, disappears and he grows determined to discover who has kidnapped her –since he knows she would never vanish without a trace.

THE CHOSEN ONE S1 (NETFLIX)

» Genre: Action

» Creator: Dallas Jenkins (The Resurrection of Gavin Stone)

» Cast: Dianna Agron, Tenoch Huerta, Carlos Bardem

Jodie is a 12-year-old who discovers that he possesses the same powers as Jesus Christ. Events and revelations lead him and his crew of friends to embark on a supernatural coming-of-age journey through the Baja region. During his adventures, Jodie is called upon to follow his divine destiny, but just like Christ, he has his moments of doubt. This series is based on the graphic novel, American Jesus, by writer, Mark Millar and artist, Peter Gross. e

AUGUST’S HOTTEST NEW RELEASES

THE INVISIBLE HOUR BY ALICE HOFFMAN

The Invisible Hour is an enchanting and poignant novel by the bestselling author of the Practical Magic series. Sixteen-year-old Ivy, pregnant and abandoned by her family, seeks refuge in the arms of Joel Davis, who promises her a simpler life within his peaceful rural community. Unbeknownst to Ivy, Joel is the leader of a cult known as the Community, and her new life is not as idyllic as it initially appears. Meanwhile, Ivy’s daughter, Mia, grows up within the confines of the claustrophobic Community where reading is strictly forbidden. However, Mia stumbles upon Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic, The Scarlet Letter, which strangely reflects her own life and the pain carried by her mother. Through a journey of heartbreak, self-discovery, and the power of books, Mia breaks free from the Community’s restrictive rules and embarks on a transformative path with unforeseen consequences. This is an emotional and hopeful tale that delves into the resilience of the human spirit when faced with life’s biggest challenges.

WORDS ALICIA DUGGAN OF THE BOOKSHOP IN SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA , CC LA COLONIA LOCAL 21, SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA. TEL: 951 779 785. WWW.THEBOOKSHOP.ES

JUST ANOTHER MISSING PERSON BY GILLIAN MCALLISTER

22-year-old Olivia goes missing after entering a dead-end alley and never remerging. Detective Julia leads the search, encountering the usual challenges, a frantic family, limited time, and long hours, leaving no time for her husband and child. Little does she know that this case is about to hit much closer to home. The criminal behind Olivia’s disappearance possesses a devastating weapon, a secret from Julia’s past, her worst one. He blackmails Julia. She must not uncover the truth about Olivia’s disappearance. Instead, to ensure her family’s safety, Julia must frame someone else for Olivia’s murder. Caught in an impossible position, Julia must make a life-altering choice that will risk everything she holds dear. Just Another Missing Person is a riveting thriller that delves into the complexities of family, motherhood, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, cementing Gillian McAllister as a master of suspense and ethical dilemmas.

KILL FOR ME KILL FOR YOU BY STEVE CAVANAGH

Steve Cavanagh’s latest offering is a gripping Strangers on a Train type of thriller. Amanda and Wendy find themselves brought together in New York City through a shared desire for vengeance. Haunted by loss, loneliness, and a thirst for justice, they form a dangerous alliance with a sinister pact. They will each kill the man who destroyed the other’s life. Their chilling plan unfolds through dark clandestine meetings, leaving readers on the edge of their seats. As the tension escalates and the body count rises, the true cost of revenge becomes evident. Will the quest for vengeance consume them, or will they find redemption and solace in their newfound sisterhood? Kill for Me Kill For You is a heartpounding tale of revenge, sacrifice, and the dangerous power of an unholy alliance.

THE BOOK OF FIRE BY

CHRISTY LEFTERI

A breathtaking novel that explores the profound search for meaning in the aftermath of tragedy from the bestselling author of The Beekeeper of Aleppo. Set in present-day Greece, the story follows Irini, a musician who teaches children, her husband Tasso, an artist inspired by the forest, and their daughter Chara, whose name means joy. Their idyllic life takes a tragic turn when a devastating wildfire engulfs their home, altering the course of their existence. After the fire, Irini stumbles upon the body of the man responsible for starting it, and in a moment of anger and grief, she makes a life-altering decision. As local authorities investigate the fire and Tasso grapples with the loss of his artistic voice and his beloved forest, the family’s bond is tested, and they seek solace and understanding amid the ruins. With stunning prose and an intimate exploration of human connections, The Book of Fire masterfully delves into the search for purpose and the enduring ties that link people to each other and the land they call home.

FAREWELL TO THE LITTLE COFFEE SHOP OF KABUL BY DEBORAH RODRIGUEZ

The long-awaited sequel to The Little Coffee Shop of Kabul. Sunny Tedder returns to her coffee shop after eight years away. Reuniting with her Kabul ‘family’, she finds Yazmina running women’s shelters and dreaming of a brighter future for her daughters, while Layla has become a prominent women’s rights activist. Meanwhile, Kat, Sunny’s American friend, faces unresolved matters during her year-long stay in Kabul, and Halajan, the elderly den mother, embarks on a secret act of rebellion. Amid the unfolding chaos of the terrifying fall of Kabul in 2021, the US troops withdraw, and the women face the rapid advance of the Taliban on the capital. In this heart-stopping tale of resilience, courage, and hope, Deborah Rodriguez concludes her bestselling Little Coffee Shop trilogy, capturing the readers’ hearts once again.

Class of 2023

Celebrating the Brilliance of our Year 13 Graduating IB Students

Congratulations to our Year 13 graduating IB students who produced a fantastic set of results. 100% of students gained the IB Diploma with an impressive grade average of 36 points (A-Level equivalent AAA).

Eight students gained the magic 40 points and fulfilled their university offers, with students now going on to study at prestigious institutions such as the University of Edinburgh,

the University of St Andrews, King’s College London, Durham University, the University of Manchester, the University of Amsterdam and IE University in Madrid. The highlight this year was Polina Sidiropoulos, who with her 43 points was accepted into the University of Cambridge to study Engineering, so enormous congratulations to her. They have been an excellent group of students to work with and we wish them all the best in the future!

Polina Sidiropoulos, who with her 43 points was accepted to study Engineering at the University of Cambridge.

International Baccalaureate Diploma Examination Results

100%

POINTS 43 Gained by 4 Students Pass rate

World average 79.35%

Achieved by top 2.68% of IB students worldwide

A*A*A*

A-level equivalent 43 points

Our average score of 36 points is the equivalent A-Level grades AAA

TOP SCORING STUDENTS GAINING 40+ POINTS

Our IB students now go on to study at some of the world’s best universities, including:

• University of Cambridge

• University of Edinburgh

• University of St Andrews

• King’s College London

• Durham University

• University of Manchester

• University of Amsterdam

• IE University in Madrid

43 points

Jade Beeks

43 points

Samuel Cunliffe

43 points

Simone Boneva

43 points Polina Sidiropoulu

42 points Sophie Newton

41 points Yelizaveta Polyanskaya

41 points

Mia Sullivan

41 points Freya White

SIZZLING SUCCESS

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR CHOOSING THE BEST BARBECUE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Over the past few years, everyday cooks have become far more adventurous in their endeavours, daring to cook gourmet meals, preparing their own pizza and pasta dough, and taking their barbecuing skills to the next level. The global barbecue and grills market is expected to grow to a whopping $26.58 billion this year, with a compound annual growth rate of – wait for it — 20 per cent! The popularity of the lowcarb lifestyle, an interest in low-fat cooking, and the appeal of gathering with friends and family for garden get-togethers are gathering momentum, though in reality, barbecues have always hit the spot. If you’re new to the game and you’d like to ‘throw your first shrimp on the barbie,’ then keep the following tips in mind!

TYPES OF BARBECUES – PROS AND CONS

The first thing to work out when you want to throw garden barbecue parties, is which type of barbecue to purchase. There are four main types to choose from.

WOOD BARBECUES

Wood barbecues are hailed the world-over because of the beautiful, smoky flavour that wood lends to food. You can use different types of wood to give food a specific flavour and give your meals a gourmet edge. With the help of a smoker box and high-quality wood chips, you can generate applewood, almond wood, hickory, mesquite, and other flavours.

If you’re into camping, this type of barbecue is great, as you can use foraged or split wood instead of having to lug heavy bags of charcoal or propane around.

One factor that makes wood grills so special is their ability to create extremely hot embers. Their only downside is that they take a long time to cook food, since wood must be burned until it comes apart and converts into embers. It can take an hour or so before you can add your grill grate and start the magic. On the whole, it can take over two hours from the time you start until your meal is ready. Wood is also a more expensive form of fuel to fire up your barbecue.

CHARCOAL BARBECUES

Charcoal imparts a beautiful smoky taste that is similar to wood and it is cheap and easy to access. What’s more, charcoal gills are often lightweight and easy to take along to outdoor activities. On the downside, charcoal (like wood) takes long (around 45 minutes) to heat. Afterwards, you have to assiduously clean the barbecue and get rid of ashes. Another factor to consider is that charcoal briquettes have a short cooking time of 30 to 45 minutes, and tend to cool down quickly after reaching

their peak temperature point. They say that once you get used to barbecuing with charcoal you ‘never go back’ to other methods, but because charcoal pieces generally come in irregular sizes, achieving an even temperature can be challenging. To get around this conundrum, buy good quality briquettes, which have a uniform size. Avoid cheap charcoal, which can contain dust and unusable pieces.

ELECTRIC BARBECUES

This is the ultimate choice for someone who wants to

grill food without having to wrestle with ash or spend too much time cleaning their grill. You simply plug in the grill and the device heats up to a specific temperature quickly.

The downside is the absence of the smoky flavours you can achieve with wood and coal systems. These grills have another issue: temperature. Generally, they cannot achieve the same raging heat as other barbecue varieties. What’s more, the fact they need an outlet means you can’t take them along to camping trips and other outdoor adventures. ›

GAS GRILLS

Gas grills are one of the most popular grill types, because they quickly fire up and do not need as much preparation or clean-up efforts as charcoal grills. These can operate on propane or natural gas. If you have a choice, natural is undoubtedly the way to go, since it eliminates the need to constantly refuel your device.

MUST-HAVE BARBECUES TO OWN

BELOW ARE FOUR TOP-RATED BARBECUE SYSTEMS YOU CAN EASILY ACCESS IN SPAIN:

The disadvantage of gas grills is the flavour of the foods they produce. Because they contain relatively small smoker boxes, produce tastes less smoky. Secondly, they can be costlier than other grills, as their design and components tend to be more complex and expensive. Fortunately, there are budget-friendly options, so go with one that is well-reviewed and stands the test of time.

A charcoal barbecue that can roast, bake, slow cook, grill, smoke, and even pan-cook food. It heats up in around 12 minutes, retains heat for up to 10 hours, and cooks everything from vegetables to a whole chicken. It comes with a dome temperature gauge that makes it easy to keep food at your desired temperature. It is super easy to clean, since it heats away remaining fat and oil, so all you need to do is sweep away any remaining ash.

WWW.BIGGREENEGG.COM

BIG GREEN EGG MINIMAX

» BIG GREEN EGG MINIMAX

» BENEFFITO LOFOTEN OUTDOOR GAS BARBECUE

This outdoor gas barbecue on wheels is lightweight and easy to move. It has a large cooking surface thanks to two chrome steel grills, and a lid that prevents heat loss and food drying. It also has a built-in thermometer that allows you to determine how fast or slow your food cooks.

WWW.BENEFFITO.COM

» THE WEBER LUMIN ELECTRIC GRILL

This beautifully designed grill reaches a temperature of over 316ºC, giving your meat a top-notch searing. It contains a unique flavourising system that infuses food with an unmistakable ‘hot off the grill’ taste. It has various settings, so you can sear, smoke, steam, or boil food.

WWW.WEBER.COM

» TRAEGER PRO 575 PELLET GRILL

The pellets in this grill make for a gorgeous smoky flavour you can vary depending on your choice of wood. It is easy to clean, comes with a smartphone app that lets you check on your food, adjust temperatures, set alerts, and activate Super Smoke mode, regardless of where you are. It is also very easy to clean. Just soak the grates for a few minutes, empty the grease bucket, and you’re ready for your next party!

WWW.TRAEGER.COM

ACCESSORIES TO OWN

GET YOUR HANDS ON THESE HOT ACCESSORIES TO MAKE THE COOKING EXPERIENCE EASIER, QUICKER, AND MORE COMFORTABLE.

» A basting brush: For sauce reapplication.

» A charcoal rake: To arrange lit charcoal as you like it.

» A drip pan: To catch grease and prolong the life of your grill.

» Food skewers: To keep small bites on top of the grill (not under it).

» A griddle: A flat tray you can cook food in atop your grill.

» A grill brush and scraper: For keeping your grill spick and span.

» Tongs: To turn over meat, sausages, burgers, and other

sturdy foods.

» A flipper: To turn over fish and other softer foods.

» A rotisserie basket: For keeping items that need extra support (like nuggets, vegetables, and French fries).

Once you have all your equipment, make sure to experiment with a host of marinades and sauces. Countries across the globe have their unique recipes— from Filipino sweet marinades to traditional American smoky barbecue sauces! e

Take a tour of a timeless luxury villa close to La Zagaleta and El Madroñal. Check out the latest trends making waves in interior design. Find out why rosemary oil is now in demand, and be prepared to be amazed by some of the technological advances that are transforming the pet care industry.

Follow the road that winds gently uphill from the coast to the grand country estates of the greater Marbella area and you come to La Reserva de Alcuzcuz. Set within the folds of wooded hills, this gated community is one of the most exclusive addresses in Marbella – a perfect blend of peace and tranquillity surrounded by nature with Marbella and the coast just five minutes away.

TIMELESS REFINEMENT IN LA RESERVA DE ALCUZCUZ

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF DIANA MORALES PROPERTIES

It is within the greenest, most panoramic hillside of La Reserva de Alcuzcuz that this stylish contemporary villa finds itself tucked against a gentle gradient, enveloped in the greenery of a pine grove that offers a fragrantly cooling embrace. Peace and refinement reign in this spot little more than five minutes from Marbella, as the gate slides open and you enter this very personal domain that is in many ways the ideal embodiment of the Marbella villa. Everything about this home is right – the style, proportions, colour tones, textural materials and the landscaping, which plays such an important role in rounding off a beautifully conceived and finished architectural villa. In true style, it is not just a modern property, but one whose sense of balance and aesthetic

appeal give it a timeless quality. This impression begins as soon as you enter the driveway and continues on past the grand front door into a tall entrance hallway that flows on into the living quarters.

Natural light and views of the beautiful gardens accompany you into the heart of the villa, where a spacious living area consisting of a lounge, dining room and modern kitchen greet you, but your eye is almost certainly caught by the sheer beauty of open sea views flanked by lush greenery. The impact is heightened by the fact that the terrace appears to float and drop down to reveal the spectacular vistas, though in reality comfortable steps lead from the large outdoor dining and lounging area to a lush green garden with an infinity edge swimming pool as its focal point. ›

The living room is tall and breezy

Outdoor breakfast area with a window on Marbella

The entrance offers a true sense of arrival

A MODERN GEM SET AMID NATURE

Look ahead and the deep blue of the pool merges with that of the sky and the Mediterranean Sea, bordered all the way by greenery dotted with brightly coloured flowers. This is a space made for the Marbella lifestyle, from pure relaxation to family entertainment and hosting in style. Indeed, the villa is as practical and family friendly as it is refined and impressive, and this is a theme that is visible both

indoors and outside.

The main living area enjoys eye-catching views that come alive as you allow the sliding doors to glide open and create one big lifestyle space – the catering for which takes place in a hidden chef’s kitchen that is almost as attractive as the family kitchen that blends in with the lounge and dining room. Connected with its own entrance, this professional kitchen is designed to ‘cook up a storm’ whenever required.

An elegant passageway bordered by tall windows with views of landscaped areas leads from the entrance hall to a private wing with two beautifully appointed bedroom suites that stand out for their space, views and detailing. The latter includes airy bedrooms with large wardrobes and gorgeous modern bathrooms with large-format premium marble tiles conveying the ambience of a spa. In fact, you’d be forgiven for mistaking them for a master suite. ›

The view from the upper floor bedrooms

PRIVATE SPACES

A stylish modern staircase hints at more perspectives of the greenery as you follow it up to the first floor, which besides more hidden storage space also features two more luxurious bedroom suites and a superlative master suite with walk-through dressing room, large bedroom and terrace with gorgeous views, and the kind of his and hers bathroom with all the sensory refinement of a luxury spa. All around are views, and from this angle they are even more impressive – an integral part of life in this modern home. As befits an exclusive

modern villa, there is also a lower floor incorporating a family lounge and entertainment area with workspace, only here you slide open a door and enter a terrace surrounded by Zen-like greenery that leads on to the rest of the garden. Also on this level are a sixth bedroom suite finished to the same standards, as well as a high-spec laundry and a machine room that forms the epicentre for engineering and home automation systems that manage everything from security and climate control to entertainment, swimming pool maintenance, and more. ›

Even the bathrooms look out over gardens

The villa is a study in private, intimate spaces that come together with an easy distribution and flow to create a refined modern home whose architectural styling, material qualities, detailing and well-balanced proportions make it a timeless gem within the wooded groves of La Reserva de Alcuzcuz. Indeed, the setting is a large part of the appeal, with greenery and scenic views that enhance the quality of life that the villa offers, further added to by tasteful styling and decoration. ›

Direct access to a parkland garden

Large private estates surround the setting, as La Reserva de Alcuzcuz is a unique residential area in Marbella that blends villa suburbs with large country properties set upon hectares of private land. It is part of the same former hunting estate as La Zagaleta and El Madroñal, but this select and secluded address is little more than five minutes from the coast while offering the space, views, privacy and natural

surroundings of a country setting. An ideal match for those who enjoy modern luxury and refinement combined with privacy close to the heart of it all.

DIANA MORALES PROPERTIES KNIGHT FRANK

AV. CANOVAS DEL CASTILLO, 4, 1ST FLOOR, OFFICE

3, MARBELLA. TEL: (+34) 952 765 138.

EMAIL: INFO@DMPROPERTIES.COM

WWW.DMPROPERTIES.COM

Every bedroom looks out over greenery

BY MADDIE QUINN

TRENDS DESIGN

With the introduction of beautiful wooden frames combined with sustainable materials and plush thick impermeable cushions, the outdoor scene has substantially transformed this season. Check out some of the latest news from reputable design firms.

ECO FURNITURE AT ITS BEST

With an impressive blend of style and practicality, the new range of rugs, throws and cushions from Weaver Green has the outdoors well and truly covered. Whether you want to create a chic Mediterranean vibe or a tranquil Middle Eastern inspired oasis, Weaver Green’s eco-friendly, waterresistant collection sets the scene perfectly. Made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, every

item in their range is a mini eco-warrior. Instead of becoming ocean waste, plastic bottles are transformed into a hard-wearing yarn that’s spun into soft-as-wool fabric. Using traditional artisan weaving skills, the end result is a beautiful array of soft furnishings in a stunning variety of designs.

WWW.WEAVERGREEN.COM

PLUMON BY PATRICIA URQUIOLA

The new outdoor line designed by Patricia Urquiola for Kettal is based on the concept of clothing, on dressing and undressing furniture.

Adopting a tailoring approach, Patricia Urquiola designs the new range with a reference to the characteristic Brazilian spirit, which lives in abundant, roomy, comfortable furnishings, somehow evocative of distant landscapes and cultures.

MATILDA SOFA BY KENNETH COBONPUE

Matilda communicates richness in its robust form and invigorating surfaces. The rattan weave complements the hearty shapes that provide a sense of fullness to the collection. Resembling molded baskets, the range features rattan’s beauty and durability through a variery of processes and can be used both indoors and outdoors.

WWW.KENNETHCOBONPUE.COM

Other models my Kenneth Cobonpue

B&O GOES PERSONAL

Bang & Olufsen has recently announced the launch of a custom collection of the iconic Beosound 2 in Gradient Green, as part of its Bespoke project on personalising its products.

"More and more customers are looking for world-class craftsmanship and bespoke products. They don't want mass-produced pieces, but something unique and very personal. To meet this demand, we are proud to announce the launch of our Atelier Editions. These products are only made to order, in extremely limited quantities, to make them one-of-a-kind, all created by our personalisation team at Atelier Bang & Olufsen," says Kristian

Teär, Managing Director of

Bang & Olufsen.

WWW.BANG-OLUFSEN.COM

FEET ON THE GROUND WITH H&M HOME

Discover the warm earthy tones and natural materials H&M Home has to offer this summer. Fun patterned cushion covers, jute rugs, stylish stoneware vases and plant pots are availbale to accessorise for creating an outdoor space where you'll want to spend every afternoon. Don't miss the Acacia wood folding lounge chair, or the mango wood stools and tables for ultimate coastal aesthetics.

WWW2.HM.COM

Photography by Sergio Kapusta

Burberry presents light silhouettes in harmonious tones. www.burberry.com

Sunkissed skin, golden sunsets and luxe-but-laidback separates, celebrate the spirit of summer with Michael Kors' new arrivals.

www.michaelkors.es

Exquisite and versatile models, designed to exude elegance every moment of summer at the beach or in the city, by Armani. www.armani.com

A NATURAL ALTERNATIVE FOR THICKER HAIR GROWTH ROSEMARY OIL

Searches for the term ‘rosemary oil’ have skyrocketed by 135 per cent over the past year in the UK alone, owing to the surge in interest generated via TikTok – as reported by beauty and wellness marketplace, Fresha. Meanwhile, searches have increased by a whopping 331 per cent globally over the past five years. The interest in this product can be attributed in no small part to beauty and wellness influencers,

who began posting content about their experiences with the commodity, alongside hashtags like #hairtok. The hashtag #rosemaryoil has a total of 1.3 billion views! The main reason behind the trend is the wish for more abundant and luscious locks. Why is rosemary taking over the social media haircare scene, and what scientific evidence on its efficacy is available?

ROSEMARY OIL FOR THICKER HAIR

One of the biggest gamechangers when it comes to rosemary oil is a study published in the journal, Skinmed. The study compared rosemary oil to minoxidil (considered one of the top hair-growing solutions) for the treatment of male pattern baldness. The results showed that both products resulted in a significant increase in hair count after the six-month study period, and that there was no significant difference between the two groups. What’s more, scalp itching was more significant in the minoxidil group. ›

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

ROSEMARY OIL IS STILL A MYSTERY

Despite knowing that rosemary oil boosts hair thickness, scientists are still at a loss as to why. They postulate that the magic may result from rosemary’s capacity to boost circulation to the scalp. This, in turn, may lead to faster cellular turnover and hair growth. Another possibility lies in its anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is thought to be able to calm inflammation, which contributes to hair loss in conditions like alopecia areata – an autoimmune disease that often results in the loss of hair in the form of patches. In some cases, an entire head of hair (or a significant percentage of it) is lost.

THE NATURAL APPEAL OF ROSEMARY OIL

For those seeking natural remedies with results, rosemary oil is an excellent choice. Although minoxidil is a frequently recommended option, it has many more potential side effects than just itching. The Mayo Clinic lists a wide range of potential ramifications for this medication, including blurred vision, chest pain, dizziness, fainting, headaches, and more. Rosemary oil, on the other hand, is as

gentle on the rest of the body as it is on the scalp. Here in Marbella, hair and scalp health specialists, Insparya, sell a shampoo called Balance, which contains rosemary leaf oil and marine algae. This can be used alongside rosemary oil to boost circulation and hair growth.

HOW DO YOU APPLY ROSEMARY OIL TO YOUR SCALP?

Applying rosemary oil to your scalp is simple. Mix around five drops of the oil with one teaspoon of carrier oil (coconut oil or jojoba oil will do) and massage the blend evenly into your scalp after washing your hair. If you find the smell too intense, rinse it out after the massage. Just make sure to leave it on your scalp for around 10 minutes, so it can work its magic.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF ROSEMARY OIL

Rosemary oil has many more benefits than hair growth. It is used by essential oil lovers in many ways, including as a bug repellent,

pain reliever, and stress reducer. In fact, one study on nursing students found that inhaling rosemary oil before and during test times decreased participants’ pulses by around nine per cent, while no significant change occurred without rosemary oil. Another study showed that when participants sniffed rosemary oil for five minutes, levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, dropped by 23 per cent. Chronic stress can lead to everything from obesity to heart disease, so consider rosemary oil as a magnificent ally to have in your home!

Cristiano Ronaldo Co-founder at Insparya Group

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CLÍNICA DRA. HERRERA

AN

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

WITH DR. CARLA HERRERA, DIRECTOR OF THE CLÍNICA DRA. HERRERA AND IBSA DERMA IBÉRICA EXPERT

LUSCIOUS LIPS, FLAWLESS RESULTS

Why the Right Fillers Are Essential?

The global fillers market is expected to reach a worth of €4.76 billion by 2030, a statistic that reveals the extent to which aesthetic medicine is being embraced by everyday consumers. Of the many parts of the face that are being plumped up and rejuvenated, one of the most popular is undoubtedly the lips. Plump, full lips are all the rage, though fillers are also used in various areas of the face – including the cheeks, chin, and marionette lines (to name a few).

THE IMPORTANCE OF SEEKING SPECIALISED MEDICAL ATTENTION

If you are thinking of getting

fillers, make sure you see a specialised doctor and do your research. As stated by Dr. Carla Herrera, founder of the Clínica Dra. Herrera in Las Chapas, the consequences of going into the world of fillers blindfolded, can be permanent. Recently, influencer, Teresa Bass (with 392K Instagram followers) warned her audience about her negative experience with aesthetic treatments. She asked for lip fillers, but the person who treated her used silicone instead of hyaluronic acid, with devastating results. Dr. Herrera explains, “Silicone, once applied, cannot be removed. This means that you are stuck with the results for a lifetime.

What’s more, silicone cannot be complemented with hyaluronic acid and other products.”

CHANGING TRENDS

For the lips, hyaluronic acid is always the filler of choice for two reasons. “Firstly, if you are unhappy with it, it can be easily removed. Secondly, fashions change. In the past, for instance, it was fashionable to plump up the sides of the lips. Today, that look is ‘out’. Consumers also demanded greater volume. Today, natural looks are in. With hyaluronic acid, you can always change your mind in terms of volume and shape. You aren’t stuck with one look for the rest of your life.” ›

DIFFERENT PRODUCTS FOR DIFFERENT ZONES

Dr. Herrera stresses the importance of making informed decisions. “There are numerous hyaluronic acid gels on the market. Each has its own characteristics. Some gels are longer-lasting; others degrade faster. We select the specific gel to be used depending on factors like a patient’s age and the desired results. For instance, for greater volume, we select a gel that is more reticulated (one whose molecules are more tightly packed together).”

MAKING IT LAST

Replying on how long fillers typically last, Dr. Herrera answers, “Usually, results last for around a year or a yearand-a-half. However, for a small percentage of patients, they can last as little as six months. Habits such as

smoking, or intense exercise, can accelerate the rate of degradation.”

IN SEARCH OF NATURAL BEAUTY

When asked about current beauty trends, Dr. Herrera states that patients are increasingly opting for natural looks—including lips that are in harmony with the rest of one’s facial features. “Filling lips slightly beautifies a face, while excessive volume can look artificial.” While it is true that it is common to see ‘pouty’ or ‘duck lips’ in the media, Dr. Herrera stresses that it is up to the doctor to recommend a suitable volume for each patient. “You can’t fall into the trap of simply doing exactly what your patient requests. Some patients ask for considerable volume, but they don’t see themselves from every angle. When

too much filler is applied, it migrates to the area of skin between the nose and the upper lip, and the result is that characteristic pout.”

When it comes to fillers, arguably the top consideration to keep in mind is to put yourself in the hands of a medical doctor who specialises in aesthetic medicine and who uses optimal quality products. Secondly, listen to your doctor’s recommendations and start small, working your way towards your desired volume, so your skin has the time it needs to hydrate and grow.

DR. CARLA HERRERA IS THE FOUNDER OF CLÍNICA DRA. HERRERA IN LAS CHAPAS. THERE, SHE LEADS A TEAM THAT CARRIES OUT A HOST OF TREATMENTS INCLUDING AESTHETIC MEDICINE FOR THE FACE AND BODY (INCLUDING FACIAL PEELINGS, LASER TREATMENTS FOR THE FACE AND BODY, AND CARBOXYTHERAPY FOR CELLULITE, STRETCH MARKS, AND DARK UNDER-EYE CIRCLES), INTIMATE FEMININE MEDICINE, HAIR TREATMENTS, NUTRITION AND DIETETICS, AND THE INTEGRATED TREATMENT OF OBESITY.

WWW.CLINICADRAHERRERA.ES

NEW LIFE MARBELLA

A Personal Journey of Healing and Transformation at Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation Center

Marbella, a haven of sun-kissed beaches and vibrant culture, is renowned as a sought-after destination for expatriates seeking a fulfilling life in Spain. Beyond its glamorous fac;ade, however, lies a sanctuary of hope and renewal for individuals grappling with addiction and mental health challenges. New Life Marbella, nestled in the heart of this coastal paradise, stands as a beacon of compassion, offering expert care and support to those on a path to recovery. Today, we delve into the inspiring story of Emma Williams (name changed for privacy), whose journey at New Life Marbella exemplifies the transformative power of

healing and the promise of a new beginning.

A DESCENT INTO DARKNESS

Emma’s once promising life was consumed by addiction, trapping her in despair. Her international business experience in Spain turned into a painful struggle, leading her to seek help and find a path to recovery at New Life Marbella.

E MBRACING HOPE AND SUPPORT

Emma found solace at New Life Marbella detox center. Its compassionate and holistic approach addressed addiction and healed emotional wounds. Through therapy and workshops, Emma gained insight. understanding, and coping strategies for her addiction

TAILORED TREATMENT FOR LASTING CHANGE

New Life Marbella’s personalised care played a key role in Emma’s recovery. Professionals in the inpatient program created a tailored treatment plan for her unique needs. Evidence-based therapies like cognitivebehavioral therapy and mindfulness equipped Emma with tools for lasting change.

C OMMUNITY AND CONNECTION

Emma found a strong sense of community and connection at New Life Marbella. Surrounded by likeminded individuals, she received support and encouragement. forming meaningful connections. Therapy sessions allowed her to express herself and receive valuable feedback. The bonds she formed remained a source of strength even after leaving the center.

R EBUILDING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

After completing the inpatient program at New Life Marbella, Emma emerged with a renewed purpose. The center’s outpatient and aftercare programs supported her transition, providing ongoing guidance as she reintegrated into her community.

With resilience and renewed passion, Emma embarked on a journey of selfdiscovery and rebuilding relationships affected by addiction.

Emma’s story, though unique, reflects the transformative power of New Life Marbella Rehabilitation Center in the lives of those seeking solace, recovery, and personal growth. Through their commitment to individualised care, expert guidance, and a nurturing environment. the center offers a lifeline to expatriates in Spain and beyond. At New Life Marbella, hope and healing intertwine, paving the way for a brighter, addictionfree future.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

UNLEASH THE PET TECH REVOLUTION

The pet care industry is undergoing a period of transformation, thanks in no small part to rapid technological advancements in areas such as AI and the IoT. Pets are an integral part of many households, and it makes sense that providers

Elevate YourFriend’sFurry World with AI and IoT!

should seek to find ways to extend their lifespans and support their health, happiness, and wellbeing. If you’re already convinced of the remarkable potential that technology holds for your pet’s unique needs, prepare to be blown away by the latest innovations in the industry.

ENABLING ALGORITHMS

Many homes with gardens have pet flaps so your cats and dogs can easily enter or leave the home when nature calls. What happens, however, if another pet learns how to use the flap, and you end up with a host of critters (or your neighbour’s cat) in your living room? The answer is AI – a technology that is set to revolutionise how pet flaps work owing to its ability to provide algorithmic assistance. There are two companies (Petnow and iSciLab, both from South Korea) currently working on nose print recognition. Soon, your pet flap will be able to differentiate between welcome pets and trespassers!

WEARABLE DEVICES

Who says health trackers are only for humans? The IoT market has unleashed a treasure trove of petfriendly solutions equipped with a myriad of sensors. Now, you can monitor your pet’s heart rate, temperature, respiration, activity levels, and even calories burned. But that’s not all—these smart trackers are your pet’s personal health detectives, alerting you to changes in sleep patterns, behavioural anomalies, and potential issues like excessive licking or scratching. Take a look at the Fi Smart Collar Series 2 and the Fitbark 2 Dog Activity Monitor, equipped with GPS tracking so you always know where your pet is.

MEDICAL DEVICES

Detecting medical problems early is now within reach, thanks to the power of AI. Prepare to be amazed by apps like Dogiz, where the aptly named feature, Dr. Poop, analyses your pet’s stools for potential medical problems. Meanwhile, AI for Pet’s TTcare is an ingenious solution that assesses your dog’s eye, skin, joint health, and more. Simply scan

the specific body part in question (for instance, the eyes), and the app will identify health issues (such as corneal ulcers, glaucoma, or cataracts). Catching these conditions early empowers you to explore treatments and surgical options while your pet is still young and free from other complications.

INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS

We are already seeing a host of systems that interact with pets, to keep them occupied while their humans are away. The companies that make them are consistently developing new, interactive toys and feeding systems that are getting more sophisticated year-on-year. From treat dispensers to puzzle toys, there are so many devices and gizmos that stimulate pets’ minds and promote their fitness and wellbeing. Cool games to check out include Puppy Tapper (an online ‘game of catch’ for dogs), App for Dog (which invites your dog to create abstract graphic art), and Lonely Dog Toy (featuring six games that can provide endless minutes of joy). Of course, if your dog is into fetch, nothing quite beats an

automatic fetch machine, which throws balls that your dog has to run for then bring back if it wants to keep playing!

PET CAMERAS AND TWOWAY AUDIO

Pet owners used to buy pet cameras just to keep an eye on their furry friends while they were at work or on vacation. Cameras have come a long way since their first-generation counterparts first hit the stands. Some now offer two-way audio functionality, which allows owners to see, hear, and talk to their pet, wherever they are. Newer models have features like night vision, 8x vision zoom, and full HD 1080 livestreaming video.

Stay ahead of the pack and embrace the future – one in which AI-powered pet flaps, wearable devices, medical apps, interactive systems, and advanced pet cameras with two-way audio create a world of possibilities for your furry companions. Your pets deserve the best, and with these cuttingedge innovations, their lives will be pawsitively extraordinary! e

Find out why the development project, Terrazas de Cortesin Bon Air, is special. Also, how Santa Clara Homes offer villastyle living in a luxury serviced apartment complex. Review financial essentials to consider when contemplating making a home in Spain, and catch up on local business news.

THE MODERN RESORT LIFESTYLE

LAS TERRAZAS DE CORTESIN BON AIR

More and more people are buying on the coast not just to have a holiday home but to live here fulltime or at least part of the year. Either way, those who become homeowners at Las Terrazas de Cortesin Bon Air find themselves within a modern country club resort.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EXXACON

One of the finest country clubs on the Costa del Sol, and indeed Europe, is also one of the most discreet and select. To some, Finca Cortesin is like a well-kept secret, yet to those in the know it is renowned for having received multiple awards for Best Hotel in Spain and Best Golf Resort in Europe, with a golf course that has been home to prestigious tournaments such as the Volvo Masters, and this year the Solheim Cup – the very first time it is being held outside of the USA. ›

Juan Jesús Martínez, Commercial Director, Marketing and Sales of EXXACON and CEO of the Tuscany Realty Group

Situated in undulating hillside terrain about three minutes from its own stylish beach club between Estepona and Sabinillas, Finca Cortesin has become an internationally renowned reference of quality and style, a resort hotel and country club with few equals not just on the Costa del Sol but across the continent. This much becomes clear as you traverse the security gatehouse, to enter an exclusive domain that is reserved for guests of the hotel, the golf club and owners of properties within its elegant residential area.

A study in tasteful design and detail in everything from how the hotel and spa are run, the golf course and gardens are maintained, to the overall sense of service and refinement that pervades it, this 223-hectare estate in the foothills not far from Casares is increasingly mentioned in one breath with the very finest addresses in Marbella. “You’ll understand why the moment you pass through the security gate and enter Finca Cortesin,” says Juan Jesús Martínez, Commercial Director, Marketing and Sales of EXXACON and CEO of the

Tuscany Realty Group, the only external developer creating homes within the resort.

“Apart from EXXACON, the only other properties designed and built here are by Single Home, the luxury villa specialist which has established the hotel, golf and country club that feels like a landed estate with a long aristocratic pedigree.” It is within this setting that EXXACON have launched Las Terrazas de Cortesin Bon Air, their third project within Finca Cortesin and one that is set to become the most successful yet. ›

A RESORT WITHIN A RESORT

The 51 two and threebedroom apartments and penthouses of Bon Air are distributed among six low-rise blocks consisting of garden apartments, terraced apartments and large penthouses with expansive outdoor spaces that offer the possibility to add splash pools. “Las Terrazas de Cortesin

Bon Air is a small-scale exclusive resort within a resort,” says Juan Jesús. “The apartments have been designed, specified and fitted with luxurious resort living in mind, with a level of aesthetic styling and

technical quality that is in keeping with its prestigious setting. This also includes the concept of Smart Living, a philosophy that applies technology to ensure the highest possible levels of comfort and quality of life.”

The spacious open plan living areas unfold to panoramic sea views that also take in the surrounding greenery,

golf course and the Sierra Bermeja mountain range.

“Finca Cortesin has the feel of a country estate that has the fortune of lying among rolling hills between forested mountains and the Mediterranean Sea,” says Juan Jesús. “It is a country club with a five-star deluxe hotel surrounded by a championship golf course, right by its own beach club, which overlooks a pretty

cove and beach. What’s more, here you’re ten minutes from either Sotogrande or Estepona, and half an hour from Marbella town, so it’s very well-connected.”

The many North American guests of the hotel have been so enamoured with the area that they are among the very international set of people buying at Bon Air, adding an unusually American element to the new community which, besides landscaped gardens and swimming pools, will have its own co-working space, gym and spa with sauna, Turkish baths and the full range of amenities and style you would expect from a luxury resort hotel. “This is why we call it a resort within a resort, as you have a world

of luxury services on your doorstep within the country club, so residents of Bon Air have no need to leave their own gated community to enjoy the kind of quality of life that brings people to the greater Marbella area.”

The complex represents highly accessible luxury in the form of both amenities, setting and the residences themselves, which stand out for their generous proportions, luminosity, views, technical and brand qualities, as well as a standard of design and detailing that is the product of EXXACON’s many years of experience in developing stylish homes.

“Though we are within the 21 most important property

development firms in Spain, with projects in Málaga and other parts of the country; Madrid, Valencia, Seville and the entire Costa del Sol, Las Terrazas de Cortesin Bon Air is a prime offering that embodies the very pinnacle of almost a quarter of a century of evolution and refinement, and it shows in every detail of properties that seamlessly match the lifestyle aspirations of our buyers.”

SANTA CLARA HOMES

Situated in a privileged country club environment at the point where Marbella East begins, Santa Clara Homes may just have come up with the ideal blend of the villa and penthouse apartment, making this one of the most exciting new developments in the Marbella area.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NEINOR HOMES

For most people, a villa represents the pinnacle of the property market. It offers space, privacy, luxury and also a certain cachet, but comes with the work and costs involved in maintaining your own garden, swimming pool, and the many details that homeowners are familiar with. On the other hand, a luxurious apartment can often almost match

the opulence of a villa yet in a slightly more compact form that comes complete with large terraces, private gardens and pools. It may lack some of the amenities of a villa or have to share them within the context of an exclusive community, but it has the advantage of added security, easier maintenance, and being able to lock up and go as you please.

Santa Clara Homes

shows that it is possible to find a perfect balance between these two property types by creating a gated community of modern penthouses and garden apartments that merge the best of independent living with the security, maintenance and modern convenience of an apartment. These contemporary homes are, in fact, a perfect blend of land and sky. ›

GATED COMMUNITY

Santa Clara Homes is situated in rolling countryside overlooking the golf course of the same name, mountain scenery, and of course the Mediterranean Sea. The gated community finds itself just east of Marbella in a natural setting whose peaceful frontline golf ambience belies the fact that it’s just five minutes to the centre of town or La Cañada shopping centre, and a little more to Puerto Banús and the Golf Valley of Nueva Andalucía. However, with half a dozen golf courses within a short radius and one on

your doorstep, this part of Marbella East is a Golf Valley in its own right.

The location is also close to hiking routes, shopping, dining and of course the best beaches on the Costa del Sol, where lofty dunes and sandy stretches are dotted with popular seafood restaurants, funky ‘chiringuito’ bars and trendy beach clubs in a variety of styles. There are also luxurious spa hotels, sports clubs and a host of other amenities nearby, as well as the ones on your doorstep.

In many ways, the creators of Santa Clara Homes have

come up with the ideal blend of villa and penthouse. They have worked hard to bring together the best of both, and the result is a gated community with many of the characteristics of an exclusive apartment complex, yet the homes are spacious private three and four-bedroom villa-style properties. Gated security also ensures a minimum of circulating traffic within the community, including a resort lifestyle complete with on-site amenities that one doesn’t tend to find in villa developments.

These include beautifully landscaped communal garden areas and several swimming pools, relaxation areas, as well as an indoor pool, spa and professionally equipped gymnasium. The properties also have their own terraces and gardens, as well as private swimming pools. offering homeowners the choice of individual or communal amenities. What’s more, the communal areas are maintained as in an apartment complex and the provision of such amenities makes it possible for the private gardens to be more compact and easier to maintain than

would be the case in an isolated villa. Buyers have the choice between garden or penthouse-style homes, the latter with large rooftop terraces.

The spacious interiors are marked by natural light and views, where modern kitchens fit seamlessly into the décor of the living and dining room area, which again flows out onto large terraces. Underfloor heating and air conditioning offer climate control throughout the living spaces and large bedroom suites, all of which are marked by modern design, technology and quality materials. The views

across the Santa Clara Golf Course are to the south, east and south-east, adding sea and mountain vistas to the greenery that sprawls before you.

Santa Clara Homes offer a high-quality build and attention to detail, a top location, and such modern details as pre-installation for electric vehicles, not to mention a great deal of freedom to personalise your own property.

TEL: (+34) 900 110 022.

INFO@NEINORHOMES.COM

WWW.NEINORHOMES.COM/ PROMOCION/SANTA-CLARAHOMES

MARBELLA, SPAIN

bbusiness news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

Azure Beach at METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella – Estepona

The five-star lifestyle resort, METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella – Estepona, whose launch took place on August 1, is pleased to announce that it has its very own beach club, called Azure Beach. This impressive establishment, set to become one of the most exclusive destinations on the Coast, features an infinity pool area with breathtaking sea views, plus exclusive cabanas with private pools, and a beach area with hammocks. It will be offering fresh, seasonal food for all palates (including salads, pizzas, and sushi), and live DJ sessions.

August Opera At Anantara Villa Padierna

Be part of an incredible night of culture with Massimo Giordano, one of the best tenors in the world, who has enchanted audiences at La Scala in Milan, the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, and the Opera Garnier in Paris. This is his premiere in Marbella, showcasing the programme ‘Parlami d’amore' (Let’s talk about love). Enjoy the most famous opera arias with Italian and Neapolitan songs in the Villa Padierna Hotel's beautiful Roman Amphitheatre. Nelson Calzi, La Scala’s leading pianist, will accompany Massimo Giordano on stage, and the lovely soprano, Ester Kandinova, will sing the love duets with him. The concert is supported by the Franco Zeffirelli foundation and Anantara Villa Padierna.

IDILIQ Developments Presents Wyndham Grand – La Cala Golf Residences

IDILIQ Developments has revealed plans for its latest development on the Coast: Wyndham Grand – La Cala Golf Residences. The new project will comprise 58 two- and three-bedroom townhouses built to the highest specifications, overlooking the renowned La Cala Resort Golf Course. Each will feature a modern and contemporary design and reflect the importance of light and space. Located in La Cala de Mijas, the development offers luxury facilities such as an on-site, state-of-the-art fitness centre with a spa and sauna, a co-working area, and usage of the facilities at the near by Wyndham Grand Resort.

Sixth Edition of The Marbella Fashion Show a Resounding Success

The Marbella Fashion Show set Puerto Banús ablaze with stunning fashions showcasing national and international brands. This is the sixth edition of the show and it was better than ever, with designers from Morocco, Columbia, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Madrid, Córdoba, Málaga, and Marbella taking part. Collections were presented by renowned firms such as Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada, Esteban Freiría, Ephemeral, Pepe Canela, and Carlos Arturo Zapata. Attending the event were celebrities such as Susanna Griso, Sandra San Juan, and Barbara and Nicole Kimpel.

WWW.MARBELLAFASHIONSHOW.COM

The Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer Presents Gala and Golf Event

The Asociación Española Contra el Cáncer (The Spanish Association Against Cancer) recently announced its 38th annual gala dinner to raise funds for cancer. The event will be held on August 5 at Finca de la Concepción, where ‘The Fighter’ award will be given to Lolita Flores for her contribution towards normalising cancer. One day before, on August 4, a competetive golf tournament will be taking place at the Marbella Club Golf Resort to raise funds for cancer-related programmes and services in Marbella.

Mónica Sánchez Named Director of the Higuerón Resort

Mónica Sánchez gas been named Director of the Higuerón Resort. With over 25 years of professional experience, she has worked for renowned international chains such as Meliá International Hotels, Accor Hotels, and Hilton Hotels & Resorts. She has been at the Higuerón Resort since 2012, taking charge of rebranding and repositioning the brand, leading the sales team, implementing the sales strategy, and successfully positioning the hotel in the premium segment. At the Higuerón Resort, she will oversee all its areas, including the Hotel, Sport Club, Spa, Beach Club, and Higuerón Rental.

Fuerte Group Mediterranean Plastics Challenge

The Fuerte Group has partnered up with Gravity Wave –a social entrepreneurship project that has been fighting against plastics in our oceans for over five years. With the collaboration of over 5,000 fishermen throughout the Mediterranean, tons of waste and fishing nets are collected and deposited in special containers at ports. These materials are then recycled and transformed into sustainable furniture and decorative products. What’s more, a system has been set up in 70 ports across Spain to avoid fishing nets falling into the sea. The aim is to remove two tons of residual plastics from the Mediterranean.

WWW.FUERTE-GROUP.COM

Third Edition of the Más Que Flamenco Festival at Trocadero Sotogrande

The third edition of the Más Que Flamenco Festival lit up Trocadero Sotogrande in July and the good news is that more performances will be taking place throughout the month of August. The dates are as follows:

August 5: Café Quijano

August 5 and 15: DJ Nano

August 11: Jerez Canta

August 12: Antonio Carmona

August 14: Ochenta y Cuatro

August 15: Rosario

August 17: A surprise concert

August 22: Los Secretos

August 25: Perla, Tobalo y La Yumiband

WWW.GRUPOTROCADERO.COM

NVOGA Presents Black Pearl: Unique Frontline Beach Villas in Marbella

NVOGA Marbella Realty recently presented Black Pearl – a luxury residential project comprising four spectacular homes with a unique design. Just a week after its launch, one of the villas, valued at €6.35 million, was reserved. Over 200 people – including real estate professionals and clients – attended the presentation, which showcased the impressive location of the plot in a gated frontline beach complex in Marbella East, surrounded by fine sandy beaches and majestic villas. The renowned architectural firm, González & Jacobson, has been commissioned to bring the Black Pearl to life.

WWW.NVOGA.COM

First iLive Short Story Awards by Cudeca and The University of Liverpool

Cudeca Hospice Foundation and The University of Liverpool have launched the first iLive Short Story Awards (‘Stories full of life’), dedicated to writings on end-of-lifecare issues. Both entities are part of the international project ‘iLIVE, live well, die well’ funded by the European Commission, which involves 13 countries. Its aim is to improve the quality of life of patients and their caregivers, and to engage the wider community with the reality of death and dying. For rules on the competition, see https:// www.iliveproject.eu/post/the-ilive-short-stories-contestopen-a-new-edition-in-english.

Leroy Merlin Opens Naterial –A New Store in Fuengirola

Leroy Merlin has opened its new showroom, Naterial, in Fuengirola. Covering an expanse of some 1,500m2, it offers a wide variety of products and services that will enable customers to bring any garden or outdoor home project to life. It boasts 65 exhibition spaces, presenting products in their real settings and showcasing the full range of each collection. Staff members have specialised backgrounds in landscaping and decoration, and are happy to assist customers in the selection and design of their outdoor spaces. Naterial is located at the entrance to the Fuengirola-Mijas commercial avenue, a popular zone where the highest concentration of garden furniture specialists is found.

Martin Köster Art Exhibition at La Fonda Heritage Hotel

Following a string of successful exhibitions in New York, Frankfurt, and Hong Kong, Martin Köster presents his work for the first time in Marbella, at the La Fonda Heritage Hotel, until August 4. Köster's aim is to internalise the soul of a city and transform it into paintings. He specialises in drawing skylines from rooftops, showcasing the vibrancy of a city from above. His art captivates viewers with its intention, immersing them in a thought-provoking process filled with curiosity. His oil paintings lead spectators on a journey through a fantastic gallery of strict vanishing points, merging with their emotions to create unique artwork.

WWW.LAFONDAHERITAGEHOTEL.COM

WWW.LEROYMERLIN.ES

Leticia Chen Launches Nao Studio in Málaga

Businesswoman and President of the Chamber for Spanish-Chinese Cooperation, Leticia Chen, has opened the beauty centre, Nao Studio, in the heart of Málaga. Chen has created a meeting point for beauty and nature, focusing on caring for the body and mind through treatments such as manicure, pedicure, eyebrows and eyelashes, waxing, and body massages. Those opting for nail services can receive advice about the colours that can bring them more luck according to their Chinese horoscope. Customers interested in pedicure treatments, meanwhile, can opt for a deluxe session featuring water containing essences from a Himalayan plant.

C/ ARQUITECTO BLANCO SOLER

2,MÁLAGA. TEL: 640 78 99 98.

WWW.NAOSTUDIO.MYTREATWELL.ES

Say Cheese Marbella: New Clinic in San Pedro

Introducing Say Cheese, the family dental clinic in San Pedro Alcántara that loves to see you smile! Specialising in orthodontics, paediatric dentistry, family dentistry, aesthetic dentistry, and smile design, the practice offers personalised treatments in a comfortable and caring environment. With a team of skilled specialists, Say Cheese combines vocation, empathy, and cutting-edge technology to provide the best dental care. Their clinic features amenities like TVs and games for children's comfort, while low radiation X-ray machines and sedation gas inhalation ensure safety during procedures. Visit Say Cheese for a warm, modern dental experience that puts your smile first!

WWW.SAYCHEESEDENTALHOME.COM

The Hotel Fariones Wins Best Relaxation and Leisure Hotel 2023 at Condé Nast Traveler Awards

The Condé Nast Traveler Awards recently deemed the Hotel Fariones in Lanzarote the Best Relaxation and Leisure Hotel of 2023. Some of the reasons this resort is so well-regarded include its privileged seafront location, 213 spacious sea-facing rooms, and an infinity pool surrounded by tropical vegetation. Let’s not forget the Fariones Sports Centre, which spans over 14,000m2 and which has the very latest fitness equipment. The hotel reopened its doors in 2022 with a renewed design by prestigious interior designer Rafael del Castillo. Art, culture, luxury, and gastronomy come together in complete harmony, within a dreamlike setting.

WWW.HOTELFARIONES.ES

Grupo Premium Creates New Foundation

The Grupo Premium hotel and restaurant group has created the new Grupo Premium Foundation, which will work to foster and support culture, science and technology, the environment, entrepreneurship, and leadership. One of its first projects involved the launch of La Fábrica de Talento (The Talent Factory) –which focuses on education in the hotel sector. The Foundation has also partnered up with a host of noncharity organisations, working to support young students with study material and creating charity menus.

WWW.GRUPOPREMIUMMALAGA.COM

Casino Marbella Launches Walk of Fame

During the presentation of the mural painted by artist, Curro Leyton, Casino Marbella launched its Walk of Fame, featuring names such as Elizabeth Taylor, Salvador Dalí, and Pablo Picasso. Guests were given a unique present: a beautiful fan, designed and personalised by Leyton. They then enjoyed a raffle prize draw, in which three lucky guests won sculptures that were hand-painted by Leyton, and three others received a tasting menu experience for two at the Casino’s restaurant. Finally, a group of dancers turned the Casino gardens into a lively dance floor.

WWW.CASINOMARBELLA.COM

Gypsy Truck Makes a Stop at the Anantara Villa Padierna Sea Club!

If you’re mad about boho-chic fashion, then make your way to Gypsy Truck, now at the Anantara Villa Padierna Sea Club. It is Spain’s first fashion truck, and it offers limited pieces, high-brand treasures, and gypsy accessories, all hand-picked by its creator, Natalia Puiggros. “Gypsy Truck is a reflection of myself. It is a concept that doesnʼt follow fashion or trends. It simply tries to make you feel special,” she says.

Vithas Xanit International Hospital Performs Visual Screenings on Children

The Vithas Xanit International Hospital in Benalmádena recently took part in a preventive campaign aimed at detecting visual anomalies that affect learning. A series of tests – including visual acuity, eye movement, cover tests, and Hirschberg reflexes – were carried out on over 70 children from the Jacaranda School in Benalmádena. A significant number of them were found to have problems like amblyopia (lazy eye), possible refractive errors, and strabismus. Doctors recommend that babies with no obvious signs of visual issues should have their first eye exam at the age of around six months.

WWW.VITHAS.ES

Cesare Scariolo Gala at Club Med Magna Marbella

Around 190 people supported the work carried out by the Cesare Scariolo Foundation at its annual charity gala, celebrated at Club Med Magna Marbella. The event was held to aid children with oncohaematological diseases and their families on a social, economic, recreational and psychological level. It was an evening full of surprises, including a sports solidarity raffle with prizes such as Tshirts signed by Cristiano Ronaldo, Pau Gasol, Fernando Alonso and Rafa Nadal, as well as numerous gifts donated by giving companies. For 15 years, the Foundation has been working to improve the lives of children with cancer and their families.

WWW.FUNDACIONCESARESCARIOLO.ORG

WORDS DAVID BOWERN, PARTNER, BLEVINS FRANKS

MAKING A HOME IN SPAIN?

FIVE FINANCIAL ESSENTIALS TO CONSIDER

If you are new to living in Spain or in the process of organising your move here, you probably have a list of jobs to get through, but does this include a wealth management review? You need to adjust your tax, financial and estate planning for your new life in Spain and spending time on it now will reap dividends in the future.

If you have been living here a while, are you sure your financial planning is up-to-date and designed for your life in Spain?

LEGAL AND TAX RESIDENCE

Lawful residence gives you the right to live and potentially work in Spain. UK nationals need to plan for Spanish residence in advance since the process is more bureaucratic following Brexit. Retirees can apply for the non-lucrative visa, while the golden visa is currently available to those who make a substantial investment in Spain. The digital nomad visa could allow you to live in Spain if you can work remotely.

Tax residence determines

which country has taxing rights over your income and wealth. Ensure you understand the Spanish tax residency rules (it’s not just about day counting) and correctly declare your worldwide income, gains and wealth as required by Spanish tax law.

TAX PLANNING

There often are compliant opportunities to reduce your Spanish tax liabilities to lower than you expect, particularly on investment capital. Plus, here in Andalucía, wealth tax has effectively been abolished. Don’t presume what was tax efficient in your home country is tax efficient here. You may need to convert existing arrangements to ones more

suitable for Spanish residents. How you hold your assets impacts how much tax you pay.

If you have not yet moved to Spain, you may be able to time your move to save tax. The Spanish tax year runs from January to December, whereas the UK’s is April to April with different capital gains tax rules and rates. Compare how much tax you would pay when selling UK assets as a UK tax resident to selling as a Spanish resident. This is one example of why it pays to take cross-border advice before moving here. Another is UK pensions, where taking the 25% tax free lump sum and/or transferring funds to a Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pensions Schemes

(QROPS) before you become Spanish tax resident could save you significant tax.

INHERITANCE PLANNING

You may not want to think about this while starting your new life in Spain, but what happens if you die while living here? Will the right money go to the right hands and tax efficiently? Understand how Spanish inheritance tax and law could impact your family.

Spouses are generally not exempt from Spanish succession and gift tax, while allowances and multipliers vary according to degree of kinship. The autonomous communities can adjust the rules, rates and allowances and Andalucía has virtually eliminated succession tax for spouses, descendants, and ascendants.

Spain imposes forced heirship. UK nationals can use the EU succession regulation to opt for UK succession law to apply to their estate but

establish if this is the right route for your family.

YOUR INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

Review all your savings and investments to confirm they are suitable for you now. Are you holding the right spread of assets to meet your objectives, time horizon and risk tolerance? Do you need to hold more assets in Euros and diversify away from UK investments?

PENSIONS

Retirees should review their pension funds and options to consider how to maximise their retirement savings without unnecessary risk. Weigh up the pros and cons of each option and establish which will achieve your objectives.

Establish the Spanish tax implications of each option. For example, transferring a UK pension to QROPS after you are Spanish tax resident incurs a prohibitive tax charge.

INTEGRATED PLANNING

For the best results, consider all these essentials in conjunction with each other. Often one will impact upon another so working on them in isolation could have unexpected consequences.

Ultimately, you want peace of mind that all your affairs are in order and designed to achieve your wishes. Taking professional guidance from a locally based adviser will ensure you have all the facts and understand your options.

The tax rates, scope and reliefs may change. Any statements concerning taxation are based upon our understanding of current taxation laws and practices which are subject to change. Tax information has been summarised; an individual should take personalised advice.

HIGUERÓN RESORT AWARDS GALA

HHiguerón Resort, one of the most exclusive residential complexes in southern Europe, hosted a memorable evening full of fun and live entertainment to celebrate their 8th Real Estate Awards Gala. As per previous years, Director General Javier Rodríguez addressed the assembly and awards were presented to the best performing real estate agencies.

WWW.HIGUERONRESORT.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HIGUERÓN RESORT

THE VIEW MARBELLA PRESENTATION

V

The View Marbella held a summer evening cocktail party to present its 2nd Phase homes as well as its new sports installations and health club. More than 200 visiting real estate agents and professionals attired in white came to see the latest developments at the project, which enjoys spectacular 300º views from its exclusive hillside location.

WWW.WILMASB.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

SEE & TOUCH OFFICIAL PRESENTATION

SDynamic audiovisual technology company, See & Touch, headed up by León Naftaniel, welcomed invitees to the official inauguration of their new showroom at Jardines de Atalaya in Estepona. Eva Longoria, María Bravo, and Estepona Mayor, José María García Urbano, were present with Maite Pueyo to assist with cutting the red tape.

WWW.SEEANDTOUCH.ES

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

GLOBAL GIFT GALA

BThe 11th edition of the Global Gift Gala, an initiative dedicated to helping children, women and families in need, was recently held at the Hotel Meliá Don Pepe in Marbella. Founders, María Bravo and Eva Longoria were joined by illustrious attendees, Miguel Bosé, Iván Sanchez, Paula Echevarría, Miguel Torres and Brigitte Nielsen.

WWW.GLOBALGIFTFOUNDATION.

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Be enticed into making a reservation to experience one of Finca Cortesin’s fine dining establishments. Discover summer changes at Boho Club. Dine out in style in Málaga at restaurants José Carlos García and Balausta. Cheers to blush rosé, the refreshing tipple of the month!

DINING AROUND FINCA CORTESIN

Famed for its understated elegance, Hotel Finca Cortesin is the ideal place to rest and regenerate within its sumptuous surroundings. It offers an array of amenities for those fortunate enough to take time out here for a temporary respite, but, notably, its legendary restaurants are also open to the general public by prior reservation.

WORDS JAMES SINCLAIR   PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FINCA CORTESIN

The hotel’s avantgarde, palatial design, inspired by traditional Andalusian architecture, is home to the following dining venues, all of which offer exceptional cuisine coupled with impeccable service and an impressive wine list.  Please note that a dress code applies for evening dining within the hotel.

REI

Rei by Finca Cortesin is the hotel’s signature restaurant which attracts a clientele from all over the province. Under the

guiding hand of Masterchef, Luis Olarra, its cuisine is renowned for sublime traditional Asian dishes as well as enticing combinations fusing Asian and Mediterranean influences. An open kitchen affords diners the opportunity to see the staff at work, as they skilfully slice fresh cuts of fish and prepare the exquisite delicacies Rei is framed for. The presentation and garnishing are meticulous, including produce grown organically in the hotel’s vegetable garden, creating an array of flavours on the palate. Highly recommended are the 14-course Tasting Menu and,

among a long list of specialities, the Seabass Tataki with smoked spring onion, seaweed and trout roe, Tuna & Caviar

Tartare with wild red tuna from Barbate, chives, osetra caviar and free-range egg yolk, Sushi

Rei, Toro Sashimi, Black Cod marinated in miso, Galician

Beef Sirloin with gremolato, ponzu and Japanese mustard, and Yuzu Iced Parfait with coconut and pistachio.

OPEN FOR DINNER EVERY DAY EXCEPT MONDAY FROM 19:30 –23:00. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 937 800.

EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ

With a magnificent setting facing a large stately lawn with millennial olive trees and the Mediterranean shimmering in the distance, the Jardín de Lutz occupies a shaded corner terrace area, with noble tables and wrought iron chairs. This is the place where hotel guests indulge in a leisurely breakfast, anytime between 7 and 11:30am. It comes to life again each evening with exceptional candle-lit dinners set to the sounds of a live band softly reproducing popular hits.

The Chef, Lutz Bösing has curated a compact menu that combines classic Spanish dishes with modern touches, such as Casareño Gazpacho with tomatoes, oregano, melon and Iberian ham, Angus beef carpaccio with avocado, hazelnuts, coriander and parmesan cheese, Sautéed lobster tallarines with tomato ragout and basil, and there are also some daily specials. Savouring such delicacies with a fine wine pairing as the evening slowly fades to twilight and then to dusk is the stuff of memories.

OPEN EVERY EVENING FROM 19:30 – 23:00. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 937 800.

Enjoy a front row seat during the Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin Estate. Last villas and private houses available to rent.

BEACH CLUB

Just 1Km from the hotel, fronting the Bahía de Casares beach, the Finca Cortesin Beach Club sports an expansive wooden decked terrace area alongside an enticing 30m aquamarine pool, lined by graceful palms, with sunbeds and thatched umbrellas. The venue offers a less formal clubhouse ambience and is a favoured meeting place for locals in the know.

The menu is focused on quintessential Mediterranean cuisine, with fresh fish, seafood, rice dishes and salads taking centre stage. Some selections not to

miss out on here include the Tender leaves salad with king prawns, papaya and curry-coconut vinaigrette, Iberian ham croquettes with tartar sauce, Deep fried squid with alioli, Salt crusted seabass, Black paella with octopus and squid, and the Beef burger with tomato, pickled gherkin, Scamorza cheese, rocket salad and ‘Beach’ sauce.

OPEN EVERY DAY FOR LUNCH FROM 11:00 TO 20:00 AND DINNER EVERY THURSDAY IN AUGUST AND FRIDAY - SATURDAY UNTIL AUGUST 26 FROM 20:00 – 22:30. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 897 296.

DON GIOVANNI

Located in a separate building adjacent to one of the main car parking areas, Don Giovanni is the hotel’s fine Italian dining venue. Its interior showcases classic Italian décor, with wall murals, patterned sofas and curtains, and hanging chandeliers, while the enclosed exterior patio is ideal for summer evening dining under the stars.

The Sicilian chef, Andrea Tumbarello, whose Don Giovanni in the Capital has received notable accolades, being awarded with two ’Suns’ in the Repsol Guide and named the Best Madrid-based

Italian Restaurant, has his customary silhouette on the plates and menus. Expect to find many traditional Italian dishes, jazzed up with innovative touches, such as Stuffed Tortellini in ham consommé and parmesan cheese, Fresh burrata with olive oil, pepper, oregano and spicy tomato sauce, Spaghetti alla Carbonara l’originale, Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, Gnocchi al Gorgonzola, Tagliatelle alla Siciliana, Linguine ai Frutti di Mare, Risotto ai Funghi e Tartufa Nero, and Lasagna della Mamma. Diners can also select from a range of pizzas, as well as some meat and fish dishes.

OPEN EVERY EVENING FROM 19:30 – 23:00. RESERVATIONS:

(+34) 952 937 800.

CLUB HOUSE RESTAURANT

A few minutes walk from the hotel, guests can relax in the elegant Clubhouse which sports a large terrace with panoramic views to the Mediterranean Sea. Popular with those in search of sustenance coming off the fairways, the restaurant offers a menu featuring breakfast and lunch options designed for golfers, which includes delicious salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, and burgers.

Some of the enticing selections here include Classic Cesar salad with chicken, bacon and parmesan cheese, Gazpacho Andalúz with garnishing, King Prawns wrap with avocado and delight sauce, Original club sandwich with chicken and bacon, Salmon Tetsuyu Poke Bowl, and Freerange chicken ‘chilli ginger’ with vegetables and basmati rice.

OPEN DAILY FROM 08:00 TO 18:00 WITH FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE.

RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 937 800.

HOTEL FINCA CORTESIN, CTRA. DE CASARES, KM 2. WWW.FINCACORTESIN.COM

EXCITING CHANGES AT

BOHO CLUB THIS SUMMER

Boho Club recently presented its stunning new garden terrace, the 10 new bungalows it has added to its accommodation options, as well as its new gastronomic proposal and summer leisure programme.

» BERNIE’S POOL BAR + PICNICS

New this summer is the sushi bar proposal by chef, Luis Bandera, which includes a succulent selection of sashimi, nigiris, hosomakis, as well as some raw bar dishes, with handmade chocolate, mochis, matcha and seasonal tea. Diners can also have fun with a Boho Club picnic in the gardens,

with wonderful views of La Concha. Including bohemian-style picnic staging, access to the hotel pool, courtesy valet parking, and use of hotel facilities, they are available to celebrate any occasion throughout the year upon request.

» EXTENSION OF THE GARDEN TERRACE AND NEW COCKTAILS ZONE

One of the great features at Boho Club is its wraparound terrace. Trendy and atmospheric, this has just been amplified with a beautiful outdoor area designated for drinks and cocktails. The new space complements their leisure programme with Boho Elements, the entertainment proposal for summer nights in Marbella with themed shows of the four elements: earth, sea, fire, and air, that will rotate every week from Sunday to Wednesday. Revellers will be in their element too with parties featuring national and international DJs, including Baker, Tiago Dima, and Tess Fischer, in addition to the usual sessions by the two resident DJs, Linda Romanazzi and Moshem. ›

» BOUTIQUE HOTEL EXPANSION AND AWARDS

The popular boutique hotel now counts on 10 new bungalows, each with an eclectic bohemian-chic décor and terraces overlooking the garden, providing the resort with a total of 20 rooms and 20 bungalows spread over more than 30,000m2 of scenic gardens. There are also two swimming pools, an exterior gymnasium with shading, a clothes boutique, and valet parking among a number of hotel amenities.  This year, Boho Club has been regaled with a number of prestigious awards. These include Tripadvisor’s Travelers Choice, for being

among an exclusive selection of 10 per cent of the world’s best hotels; the International Property Award in the category of Best Hotel Interior Design and Best European Hotel Interior Design, as well as being nominated in the category of Best Hotel Interior Design in the World that will take place in February 2024. Likewise, Boho Club has become a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts, the largest independent global hotel brand, in its Lifestyle collection, which recognises the best destination hotels in the luxury segment positioned in spectacular locations.

» GASTRONOMIC ENTICEMENT BY DIEGO DEL RÍO

The Executive Chef of Boho Club, Diego del Río, is passionate about Mediterranean produce and Andalusian cuisine which he complements with international touches. For the summer menu, he has created a wide culinary offer that highlights revered provincial products like

Andalusian tomatoes, Payoyo goat’s cheese, tuna from Cádiz, and avocados from Axarquia, combined with an array of quality ingredients in an assortment of mouth-watering gourmet preparations. The menu features textured meat and fish dishes, with plenty of salad and vegetarian options for lighter summer dining. Clients can select à la carte or opt for the Diego del Río tasting menu, which comprises a selection of eight courses with optional wine pairing. Responding to the culinary desires of its hotel clients, the restaurant also serves a diverse breakfast buffet and lunch each day in the garden, under shade. ›

» SOLERA ANDALUSIAN PATIO

Solera completes the gastronomic offer for the summer season at Boho Club. With a specific menu based on Mediterranean flavours, diners will be able to taste a variety of sharing dishes, enjoying tapas and live flamenco on certain evenings in a space decorated with multicoloured ceramics and potted plants that are typical of Andalucía.

» FINE WINES AND CREATIVE COCKTAILS

The Boho Club sommelier,

Richard Mena, has personally curated an emblematic wine list that includes more than 300 national and international references comprising wine, sparkling wine, and Champagne, with a nod to wines produced in Andalucía, and a collection of sakes to accompany the sushi available at Bernie’s. The cocktail menu, from head mixologist, Agustín Corral, delights the palate with a range of revitalising cocktails meticulously made with fresh ingredients and unique combinations to awaken the senses. e

BOHO CLUB, LOMAS DE RÍO VERDE, KM 176, MARBELLA. OPEN EVERY DAY FOR BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER.

TEL: (+34) 952 157 222.

WWW.BOHOCLUB.COM

BALAUSTA

MAKING HISTORY

In the historical centre of Málaga, Balausta – ancient Greek and Latin for pomegranate – is most suitably located in pedestrian Calle Granada, formerly called Calle Real, running by the city wall towards the exit for the road to Granada.

WORDS CRISTINA FALKENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BALAUSTA

Traditionally the Jewish quarter, it’s where Picasso grew up. He was christened in the Church of Santiago, one of the oldest in town, facing Solecio Palace, the boutique hotel home to Balausta.

A 10-minute walk from the Alcazaba fortress, three minutes from the Museum of Málaga, and a minute’s walk from the Picasso Museum, you might want to visit one of the exhibitions for the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death in 1973. Until September 20, Picasso: Matter and Body, and from October 3 until the March 24, 2024, The Echo of Picasso

Balausta is Spanish hospitality at its best, with Marbella-born chef Sergio Solano (ex-El Lago) in charge, and Gema González on hand, ready to give you the full history.

Soft Spanish guitar music, live on Thursday evenings, welcomes the visitor. During December, short plays (in Spanish) and dinners enlivened by a string quartet, welcome Christmas.

The patio radiates natural light through its glass ceiling, though the translucid awning is drawn to keep the place at a perfect temperature, much appreciated in the summer.

“Balausta is traditional Málaga recipes with a twist,”

says chef Sergio Solano, responsible for designing the main menu each semester, as well as the bi-monthly feature-menu, all carefully curated by the chef of the eponymous Michelin-starred restaurant, José Carlos García, their gastronomic consultant. The spring Vegetable-Garden Days, focused on organic produce from the Gualadhorce valley, gave way to BeachBar (Chiringuito) Days in summer, which aims to recover almost-lost recipes like the Moorish-style sardines, oven-baked on a bed of spiced vegetables. ›

The best quality fish, shellfish, fruits, and vegetables are sourced mostly in the province, as are the wines, such as their Encina del Inglés, a delightful crisp dry white muscatel, or the reds, mixed with powerful romé grapes, only to be found in Málaga, and which are used to give a full body to younger wines. If you like red fruits, try Ariyanas, certainly an unusual rosé.

Crayfish from the bay of Vélez, four or five varieties of local freshly caught fish, avocados from the Axarquía,

almonds from Cártama, and organic vegetables and citrusfruits from the Guadalhorce, form the restaurant’s basic pantry. Dishes are often cooked or finished off on an open barbecue, vine-branches included, traditionally used to light fires and which add a distinctive flavour, as to the roast-pepper salad.

I enjoyed the service of Inmaculada Corchero, who is kind, professional and attentive. The meal started off with the two flavours of croquettes available, a muchenjoyed local imperative, with

the soft garlic pil-pil allowing for the prawn flavours to develop fully.

The warm seafood dumplings in a velvety clam sauce that came next were simply exquisite, evoking an array of sea flavours, from the more delicate to the strongest. In contrast, the fresh avocado-based gazpacho that followed, with its pronounced olive oil undertone, accompanied by scallops and a most refreshing vegetable-based sorbet will bring anyone back to life on a hot day. ›

Another most tempting option is their ajoblanco, a cold almond soup which they make with pine nuts, accompanied by cherries from Alfarnate and crayfish tartar.

To follow, I savoured their al dente spicy rice with roasted artichoke and shiitake mushroom, where each main ingredient maintains its independence but mingles beautifully with the others.

If there is any reason for going to Balausta, even for going to Málaga, I would dare say, it’s the stewed tuna cheek (facera de atun), both the staff’s and my own favourite. It was just outstanding, with a potato

millefeuille and the surprising but perfect combination of the carrot, orange and cumin purée. A young but assertive Pago del Espino red wine from Ronda accompanied this most delicious of dishes.

If you are ordering meat here, you might want to consider choosing one of their ecological options, which guarantee animal welfare standards are duly observed, as in their ham and pork-based dishes.

Balausta is one of these places where perusing the menu makes you feel you would like to try everything, and this doesn’t get any

easier with selecting a dessert. I tried the pain perdu with fresh-milk ice-cream, candied orange and roasted Cártama almond sauce, a worthy tribute to one of Málaga’s most traditional sweets, which rounded off a most memorable experience.

CALLE GRANADA, 57-59, MÁLAGA.

TEL: (+34) 952 216 000.

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 12:30 – 24:00.

WWW.RESTAURANTEBALAUSTA.COM

GARCÍA JOSÉ CARLOS

Where Tradition and a Touch of Rock ‘n Roll Unite

He has been dedicated to the culinary arts for 25 years and has sustained a Michelin star for his eponymous restaurant, Restaurante José Carlos García, through the marriage of classicism, family recipes, and innovation.

José Carlos García is undoubtedly one of Málaga’s best-known and hardestworking Chefs, and we take great pleasure in profiling him this month!

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF JOSÉ CARLOS GARCÍA RESTAURANT

BORN AND RAISED IN MÁLAGA

It can be argued that there is something special about dining at a legendary restaurant whose chef is deeply connected to the local area. José Carlos is a fine exponent of this idea. He was always attracted to the world of cuisine and, as a young man, pursued his vocation at the famed Málaga school, La Cónsula. His father suggested that he hone his craft far from home, which led him to work under the guiding hand of various maestros at restaurants that peppered the great cities of Europe. Málaga would always be his calling, though. He was fascinated by local

produce and, to this day, has close contact with the merchants of Atarazanas – arguably Málaga’s most iconic market. Located in the centre, it was designed by prestigious architect Joaquín Rucoba and built between 1876 and 1879.

DARING TO BE DIFFERENT

The chef challenges himself constantly with his technique, injecting doses of daring into traditional Andalusian recipes. His greatest inspiration is undoubtedly the sea, though he also fans the flames of creativity with ideas he has obtained from his penchant for travel. He defines his cuisine as “sincere and in

constant evolution.” It is the result of the many lessons he learned while at the helm of Café de Paris (his family’s restaurant), in addition to his experiences spanning over a decade at José Carlos García Restaurant. He has deep respect for his family heritage, but is pleased to inject his cuisine with ‘a touch of rock ‘n roll.’

SEASONAL INGREDIENTS

José Carlos García recently presented his seasonal menu, which features products like shrimps, crayfish, sardines, tomatoes, parsnips, citric fruits, watermelon, and figs. The Chef is impassioned by local produce and has taken his restaurant in a zero-kilometre cuisine direction. Everything is seasonal and therefore in its freshest, most flavourful state. ›

TASTING MENU

The tasting menu features 70 per cent local produce and authentic Malagueño flavours, thanks to dishes like salmonete (red mullet), quisqilla (shrimp), lubina (sea bass), and chipirón (squid). Meat and vegetable dishes also play a starring role, as does game. Artistry, colour, and elegance abound in the presentation, with many

dishes having tiny, graceful touches that reveal the painstaking work and thought process behind them. Of course, the real magic lies in every bite, with dishes containing complementary and contrasting flavours and a host of delightful textures.

CONTEMPLATING BEAUTY

José Carlos García is very

much a jewel in the sceptre of the sea-faring city of Málaga. It overlooks the elegant boats that dock at the Muelle Uno Port and beyond that, there are glimpses of the city where Picasso was born. The Málaga Cathedral stands in all her glory, surrounded by greenery and more magnificent exponents of architecture. The restaurant itself is beautifully designed, its modern interiors graced with a large vertical garden that lends the space a sense of peace. After a meal, there is so much to do – from strolling along Muelle Uno itself to visiting the myriad of nearby stores, or walking across the road to the Old Town. There, you can catch the latest exhibitions at the Carmen Thyssen or Picasso museums, enjoy a theatre show, or simply visit some of Málaga’s most beautiful and ancient constructions and archaeological sites. Without a doubt, José Carlos García Restaurant has chosen the perfect location to serve cuisine whose heart and soul is the Mediterranean Sea.

LA VERANDA RESTAURANT

Indulge in the terrace of La Veranda restaurant and live the perfect gastronomic experience. Classic recipes with a modern touch and exceptional service awaits

Enjoy your dinner under the stars, surrounded by candlelights and the sound of the fountains in our gardens.

Scan QR to check our menu.

Bookings: +34 952 88 91 50

Open from 7:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. from Friday to Tuesday. Livemusicfrom FridaytoSunday.Wednesday and Thursday closed.

LIFE IS A JOURNEY. Visit anantara.com

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

BARBILLON’S FIRST BEACH BAR IS NOW IN MARBELLA

The Barbillón Group has just opened the doors of its first beach bar-restaurant, just 10 minutes from the Golden Mile in Guadalmina Baja. Covering some 4,000m2, it boasts gorgeous views and three areas with different atmospheres: the bar-restaurant, the beach (with hammocks on the sand), and the pool. The beach and pool areas open every day at 11am, while the bar-restaurant operates continuously from midday until midnight. The restaurant serves a host of tempting dishes – including prawn tempura with miso vinaigrette and kimchi mayonnaise, fried nigiri with steak tartare and quail egg, an array of rice dishes, freshly-caught fish, and more.

LA ROC: A NEW RESTAURANT WITH A HEART

La Roc is a new Estepona restaurant where you can enjoy a marvellous culinary experience, as well as drinks, dancing, and live shows. Located within Estepona’s Club Náutico building, it is a socially committed endeavour that is closely aligned with the Global Gift Foundation. The restaurant will allocate a contribution of €1 per bill generated to Casa Ángeles – the Marbella day centre for children with special needs, founded by María Bravo. The owners of the restaurant, René Mohs, David Anguix, Avinash Rupani and Cecilia Lajarge, were joined at the launch by María Bravo and Estepona’s Mayor, Jose María García Urbano.

LE JAPONAIS: THE FIRST JAPANESE RESTAURANT IN A SUPERMARKET!

Entrepreneur, Miguel Ángel García Marinelli has opened a brand new Japanese restaurant called Le Japonais. One aspect that makes this establishment so unique is that it is located within the supermarket of El Corte Inglés in Puerto Banús! Le Japonais has a takeaway zone as well as a tasting bar for five diners. At the helm is Héctor Escalona, a sushi chef offering diners an à la carte experience, or an omakase style tasting. There are three menus to choose from, all of which feature market-fresh produce that is prepared before your eyes.

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INSTAGRAM: LAROC_ESTEPONA

SPAIN

AGAVE BAR OPENS AT BREATHE

Whether you’re a tequila or mezcal enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply seeking an extraordinary night out, head to Breathe’s new Agave Bar, and you’ll be instantly transported to the heart of Mexico. The bar’s essence is represented by Tequila Patrón – a 100 per cent agave tequila that is known worldwise for its smooth flavour and masterful handcrafting.

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BLUSH ROSÉ THE PINK PLEASURE MARBELLA ADORES

Rosé has emerged as a shining star on the global stage. With its growing popularity, how do we navigate the vast array of options? And what secrets can elevate our enjoyment to new heights? In this exploration, we turn to the award-winning sommelier, Mariano Braga, to unravel the mysteries behind blush rosé, sharing invaluable insights.

WORDS MARIANO BRAGA

They embody the delicate balance between white and red wines, offering a fusion of acidity and body. With their remarkable versatility in food pairing and an abundance of styles that constantly evolve, blush rosé wines are gaining momentum like never before.

While it’s true that they were once considered an alternative, often a by-product of red wine production rather than a deliberate style conceived from the vineyard, the past decade has witnessed a remarkable renaissance. Major global cities played a pivotal role in elevating rosé to a coveted status, prompting winemakers to reimagine its potential.

Today, the resurgence of rosé is felt worldwide. The United States alone consumes nearly 15% of the global rosé output, while traditional rosé-producing

regions like Provence are witnessing annual growth rates ranging from 50% to 70%.

A JOURNEY THROUGH PROVENCE

The rosé wine style has gained popularity worldwide, with diverse profiles emerging from different regions. From the intense Garnacha-based rosés of Navarra to the off-dry White Zinfandel of California, the global replication of this style showcases its versatility. However, when one thinks of it, Provence undoubtedly comes to mind as a frontrunner. In this picturesque region, rosé wine accounts for over half of its total production, boasting numerous organic and biodynamic projects across its various Appellations d’Origine Contrôlée (AOCs) and showcasing star grape varieties such as Mourvèdre, Garnacha, Cinsault, Cabernet

Sauvignon, and Syrah.

With its light colour, refreshing profile, and invigorating acidity, Provence rosé stands as an unparalleled choice, particularly under the radiant sun of the Costa del Sol.

FIVE REA SON S TO SAY YES TO ROSÉS

As a refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat, the pronounced acidity of rosé wines provides a delightful sensation when served chilled. Here, Mariano Braga shares five reasons why rosés should be your next choice.

» BECAUSE THEY ARE A SECRET WEAPON FOR FOOD PAIRING

Perhaps it is its most unknown feature: rosé wine is the ace up your sleeve for pairing. Fish, red meat, pasta, rice. Pink is the answer. Being that halfway point between white and red, the result is a wild card that will surely please the palate of the majority.

» BECAUSE SUMMER IS CRYING OUT FOR THEM

The acidity is its most outstanding attribute and, for this reason, drinking them chilled (fridge temperature and serving with an ice bucket) is a caress to the palate in times of oppressive temperatures. ›

» BECAUSE OF ITS DIVERSITY

Not all rosés are sweet, and in fact, you can find everything: from those with a super light, almost transparent colour, to the most classic, intense ones that are experiencing a resurgence in many markets today.

» BECAUSE IN CHAMPAGNE, THEY ARE DELIGHTFUL

In Champagne, many of the most exclusive and highest quality labels are rosé. While internationally, the most widespread method for making this style basically consists of an attenuated maceration, in Champagne they are

SOME RECOMMENDED ROSÉS

» DOMINIO DEL PIDIO ROSADO

Dominio del Pidio. DO Ribera del Duero, España

A captivating rosé, defying convention, crafted from Tinto Fino and Albillo grapes. Fermented in cement vats and aged on lees, it showcases intriguing depth and character.

» CHÂTEAU GASSIER

AOP Côtes de Provence, France

A light-hued blend of Grenache and Syrah, boasting a powerful aromatic profile... everything we could ask for from Provence.

» DAVID LÉCLAPART

L’APHRODISIAQUE

David Léclapart. AOC

usually made by mixing white wine and red wine in different proportions.

» BECAUSE THEY ARE NOW TRENDING

For years, rosés were ‘by-products’, made with part of the juice that was extracted from the red grapes during their maceration. Today, more and more winemakers are devising them from the very beginning, in the vineyard.

Champagne, France

An icon of the new face of Champagne, exuding a level of subtlety that astounds and delights.

» FLOR DE MUGA

Bodegas Muga. DOCa Rioja, España

One of my favorite rosés from Spain, crafted by one of the most prestigious wineries in the region.

» LUSH BLUSH

Lush Blush. AOP Côtes de Provence, France

Everything a summer rosé should have. A blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Vermentino, with aromas of orange and peach, and a lively palate.

MARIANO BRAGA IS A SOMMELIER AND WINE COMMUNICATOR BASED IN MARBELLA. INFO@MARIANOBRAGA.COM