Essential Magazine, January 2023

Beds 3 Bath 3

Built 340 m2

Interior 222 m2

Beachfront luxury.

Prime views and location

Price: 2.850.000 € Ref: DM4149

Set within the exclusive Malibu complex of beachfront apartments, this duplex penthouse is one of the finest units in this prestigious development with 24h security, large gardens with three swimming pools, gym and direct beach access.

Spacious interiors with elegant aesthetic and state-ofthe-art technology featuring the living room with dining area, three-bedroom suites with private terraces and Bulthaup kitchen with top appliances. The large main terrace is divided into different covered and uncovered areas that provide space for lounging, relaxing, dining and entertaining whilst enjoying truly spectacular sea views.

An ideal property to enjoy private, tranquil living within easy reach of all amenities.

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

Over

Superb residence.

Fabulous indoor-outdoor living

Interior 462 m2 Beds 5 Bath 5

Built 638 m2

Price: 4.750.000 € Ref: DM5016

A luxurious duplex with private garden and excellent sea views offering the space and comforts of a luxury villa in a very convenient form, 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 and immaculate gardens with heated swimming pool, the apartment has spacious living areas with two lounges, bedroom suites on both floors, large terraces, bar and outdoor jacuzzi.

Fine materials, wonderful sunlight and plenty of entertainment space in flexible accommodation with two independent entrances and kitchens.

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.

prices on application | (+34) 648 981 111 | info@by-bright.com | vistalago.es

The view from your sofa at Vista Lago Residences

ANDREW LINN, ISABEL MALYNICZ, GAËLLE MOUSSET,

Is your Spanish tax planning up to date for

Andalucía has reduced income and inheritance taxes and abolished wealth tax – is your wealth management set up to take full advantage?

Many UK nationals remain liable for UK inheritance tax and frozen allowances could significantly impact your family – now is the time for strategic estate planning.

With the recent changes to Spanish taxation of UK pensions, getting this wrong can prove costly –specialist advice is essential.

Blevins Franks has been advising UK nationals living in and moving to Spain for over 40 years. Contact us for a tax and wealth management review.

Antima is a family run property developer creating one of a kind private residences.

Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on instagram @antimahomes to stay in the loop on current and upcoming developments.

For more information, please contact:

John Brendmoe

(+47) 900 99 665 – john@antimagroup.com

WORDS BY IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

RENEW YOURSELF

Following months of careful planning, we unveil the stylish new look for essential in 2023.

January is the best month to take stock of your personal situation and to resolve to effect whatever changes may be required to improve your physical and mental wellbeing. Use this month’s issue as a sounding board to aid you in this pursuit.

Have a look at a possible future for many of us with the sustainable Living Pods from Ocean Builders, preview tech trends for the year ahead, get fitter with your pet, and consider healthier eating and better sleeping in 2023.

We start the year skiing down the slopes of the magnificent Sierra Nevada, enjoying a pampering stay at Málaga’s

Palacio Solecio on the return journey. If you’re travelling further afield, consider experiencing a number of other palatial hotels featured.

2023 sees the 50th anniversary of the presentation of the first degrees from the Open University, and the 100th year of Disney – we commemorate both in these pages.

Take on board the luxury and security furnished by the new Ferrari Purosangue SUV and check out Men’s fashion trends for this spring and summer.

Setting the mood for some gourmet pleasure, we suggest a great evening at Thai Gallery in Plaza Village, and we present Cristóbal Muñoz, Spanish Young Chef of the Year.

Happy New Year!

“Cheers to a new year and another chance to get it right”

Oprah Winfrey

Go skiing or snowboarding in Sierra Nevada this winter. Preview Disney’s 100th Anniversary, with celebrations planned throughout 2023. Imagine living in a sustainable Eco Pod. Be impressed by Ferrari’s new SUV, and find out why actress Daisy EdgarJones is on a stellar trajectory.

SIERRA NEVADA

WHERE THE ALPS COME TO THE COSTA DEL SOL

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK, EL LODGE & MARIBEL

To the Americans, the Sierra Nevada is a mountain range in California, but for us it is the Alps-come-to-Marbella – complete with snowy peaks, ski resorts, kilometres of pistes, cosy hotels and après ski. And it’s all just over two hours from the beaches of the Costa del Sol.

El Lodge Ski & Spa – luxury and refinement in the Sierra Nevada

It is the mighty Sierra Nevada mountain range that you see towering behind Granada, its icy peaks forming a spectacular backdrop to the equally impressive Alhambra palace complex of that city. Those snowy ranges can also be seen glistening in the sun from our coastline, and indeed, it’s under two hours by car from Málaga to the alpine wilderness of this vast range, which is home to Mulhacén, at 3,481 metres the highest peak in mainland Spain. These mountains can be seen from large parts of Andalucía, including by fishermen well out at sea on the Mediterranean, and besides endless peaks and

valleys dotted with villages and housing fauna such as wild mountain goats, eagles and vultures, this is also the domain of winter sports enthusiasts – the Alps come to southern Spain. In fact, the ski station at the village of Pradollano is the most southerly resort of its kind in Europe, known for an exceptionally long season. This southern latitude, combined with high altitude, produces conditions that can make a November to May season possible, and for this reason the Sierra Nevada is popular not only with ski and snowboarding fans, but also with organisers of international competitions, such as the 1996 FIS Alpine World Ski

Championships, the 2015 Winter Universiade and the 2017 FIS Freestyle Ski and Snowboarding World Championships.

SIERRA NEVADA SKI STATION

Located on the slopes of the Veleta Mountain, around 200 kilometres from Marbella, are 115 kilometres of alpine ski runs that flow from a high of 3,300 metres down to 2,100 metres at the level of the main ski station in Pradollano. The runs are classified green (18km), blue (40km), red (50km) and black (9km), according to the degree of difficulty, with green ideal for beginners and black best left to the pros. ›

Two cable cars, 17 chairlifts and two T-bar lifts, as well as two magic carpets and one ski tow take enthusiasts to the top of the pistes, with a mid-station at Borreguiles. At a height of 2,675 metres, it features a collection of restaurants, cafés, shops and a ski school, but the real resort is Pradollano, which bustles with a surprising degree of alpine charm. In fact, with its hotels, inns, apartments, restaurants, bars, shops and panoramic terraces surrounded by snowy peaks, it very much feels like the Alps too.

115 km of ski runs in Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada ski station has also hosted international competitions

Ski slopes and chair lifts of Pradollano Ski Resort

GETTING AROUND

For centuries, the winter wonderland was an underpopulated wilderness that drew scarce attention from the local populace, but alpine leisure activities spread to this part of Andalucía after the war, with a small station inspired by those of the Alps and Pyrenees. As the coastal region developed and prosperity grew in Spain, so did the demand for a full-grown ski resort near the Costa del Sol, and the result is Pradollano, a very complete example of the genre. At 2,100 metres altitude, it is a relatively easy drive away from the major centres of the region,

and well worth the trip. Though it’s the highest-lying ski resort in Spain, the drive to Pradollano is normally straightforward, however it is advisable to take snow chains with you and be wellpractised in putting them on. You can otherwise also use so-called ‘tyre socks’, as long as it improves traction in slippery conditions. For the rest, read up on the best way to drive in snow and stay calm, thousands have done it before you. In fact, you may find yourself in a bit of a traffic jam on the way there if you go at the height of the season, which includes public holidays, weekends and much of the period between December and March.

Parking is well organised at the ski resort, complete with a bus station that links the village with Granada. There are also minibus shuttle services between the top and bottom parts of Pradollano, as well as a chair lift that you can hop off where you like. Pradollano is pretty, and lined with apartments, hotels and spa resorts that offer a choice of accommodation. They vary according to budgetary and practical requirements, and range from simple for people who just want to get on with it and ski to super luxurious and cosy. ›

MOC.ENIZAG ROMROF

FROM ACCOMMODATION TO SUPER RESORT EXPERIENCE

Perhaps the most iconic and luxurious of all is the renowned El Lodge hotel, the Sierra Nevada sibling of Marbella’s Marbella Club hotel, celebrating it’s 10th season. Here you can enjoy richly cosy and ambient alpine luxury in what feels like a five-star chalet lodge

nestled in-between the snowy mountains. Expect Champagne bubbles and warm bubbles as you toast the spectacular view from your terrace Jacuzzi. The rooftop and penthouse suites take the cake in terms of opulence, but El Lodge is also famous for its restaurant, The Grill, its bar and panoramic terrace. Its new sister hotel in the Sierra Nevada is Maribel,

a spectacular new luxury destination situated at the foot of the slope, with direct access to the Maribel and Águila runs. Its ambience and spa remind one of the Norwegian mountains, while the ski-in/ski-out bar and terrace offer après ski with style. The fine dining restaurant, meanwhile, has a distinctly alpine flavour, with Maribel adding lustre to the popular ski resort.

Most of the large hotel chains are also represented, as are smaller inn-style hotels, boutique venues, spa resorts, aparthotels and private apartments. Imagine looking out over the valley from the warm cosseting water of a wellness centre, or tucked into warm clothes from the comfort of a terrace chair, glass of mulled wine in hand? Pradollano is pretty and pleasant by day, but above all focused on the ‘serious’ business of skiing and snowboarding, yet at night it becomes a fairy tale setting and gets down to the business of après ski fun. ›

Maribel’s open-plan reception and lounge

Dining on the terrace at Maribel

A private suite at El Lodge

APRÈS SKI

Ask any winter sports enthusiast (be it aspiring or expert), what they really, really enjoy about ski resorts and they will tell you it’s the après ski. Beginners coming off the green runs at the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, more experienced skiers taking on the blue rides and experts daring the reds will all converge on the same scene when the day’s action on the slopes is done, and this is where the party begins. Usually, the evening starts off easily enough, with a drink on a terrace and a meal, but it’s into the early morning hours that revellers party at bars and other night spots.

A good choice of quality restaurants and more traditional eateries is followed by such popular evening haunts as La Bodeguita Bar, Grandvalira and the rather exclusive Baqueira Beret, while daytime revellers flock to Marchica, near the Aramón Formigal station. Whether you come primarily for the winter sports, resort relaxation or to party, the Sierra Nevada brings the alpine experience to within a two and a half hour drive from downtown Marbella, adding greatly to the variety and quality of life on the Costa del Sol.

WWW.ELLODGE.COM

WWW.MARIBELS.COM

The view from one of the suites at El Lodge Ski & Spa

The charming ski resort of Pradollano

THE HOTEL PALACIO SOLECIO MÁLAGA

Deemed Best Urban Hotel 2022 by Condé Nast Traveler

The year 2022 was a great one for the Palacio Solecio Hotel – a palatial hotel located in an 18th-century building that maintains the architectural and artistic style of the original edifice. In this year, it was chosen as Best Urban Hotel by Condé Nast Traveler. This is a prestigious achievement that reflects the excellence of its design, service, and gastronomic offering.

STEEPED IN HISTORY

The Hotel was originally the property of Félix Solesio – a Genovese playing card dealer and stationer who settled in Málaga to manage the Royal Card-Playing Factory of Macharaviaya. His appointment was the result of an express request of José de Gálvez – the General Minister of lands under Spanish dominion. Their aim was to supply playing cards to the U.S. and provide an economic boost to the local area and to the Malagueño Coast as a whole.

In 1789, Solesio commenced the construction of the Palace and in one of the building’s chambers, guests can view his family’s coat of arms, featuring the sun. The Palacio was home to Solesio and served as a paper warehouse for many years. However, economic difficulties caused the Palace to be embargoed in 1803. It eventually became a school for girls aged seven to 14. Today, the palace is known as ‘Solecio’ – a Castillan version of the Solesio surname. ›

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE HOTEL PALACIO SOLECIO MÁLAGA

A MYRIAD OF ROOMS

There is a wide range of room sizes to choose from, ranging from the Double Solecio (for two adults) to the Torre (a romantic, picturesque room that is the only one situated on the top floor, within the tower that crowns the building). The latter commands access to a private terrace and has exquisite views over the Málaga cathedral and the Old Town. Its interiors boast a blend of traditional and modern designs, with light colours, natural wood, and signature furniture pieces holding sway.

STAR-FILLED CUISINE

The Palacio Solecio is home to a cocktail bar and its signature restaurant, Balausta. The bar is located in a red brick-walled room with traditional tiled flooring and an array of colorful Andalusian furniture pieces. Here, you can sip on a host of cocktails at any time of the day. Balausta is the Hotel’s main dining spot, overseen by José Carlos García, whose

eponymous restaurant has one Michelin star. This chef is known for his ability to merge traditional and avante-garde techniques to create simple yet original dishes.

The restaurant is just about as romantic as you could imagine; graceful arches, stately columns, and quality leather furniture abound. It is located in an interior portico that is bathed in light entering from a

crystal dome. Diners enjoy the daily market menu for lunch and/or a tasting menu (which is available for lunch and dinner). The list of appealing dishes includes the artisanal croquetas with grilled octopus and a Tío Pepe emulsion, a degustation of goats’ cheeses from Málaga, and the seabass, apple, and mustard tartar, brought from the waters of the Málaga bay. ›

AN ARRAY OF EXPERIENCES

There are many experiences you can enjoy with someone special at the Palacio Solecio. These include special menus, escapes for two plus tickets to the Picasso Museum, a caviar and Louis Roederer Champagne experience, and one night at the hotel plus a gastronomic menu with wine for two.

AN UNBEATABLE LOCATION

The beauty of the architecture surrounding you is just one of many advantages of choosing the Palacio Solecio. Its location is one of the best you could hope for in the City Centre. It is a five-minute walk from the Málaga Cathedral, a seven-minute walk from the Carmen Thyssen Museum, and a short distance from Málaga’s vibrantly beating heart: Calle Larios.

Ocean Builders, a leading ocean innovation technology company based in Panama, recently revealed their revolutionary living pods that will change the way humankind thinks about home, travel, and how to live in a future-focused world. Ocean Builders’ range of premium price-accessible Pods includes the original SeaPod built for aquatic living, the GreenPod for land use, and the EcoPod providing an ecologically and economically friendly option – all created to optimise highquality living experiences driven by cuttingedge technology and eco-restorative sustainability. ›

Conceptualised by Ocean Builders President and Head of Engineering, Rüdiger Koch, and Chief Executive Officer, Grant Romundt, the SeaPod was created as an answer to an inevitable problem: a lack of space in desirable destinations. “Every day thousands of people all over the world move closer to the top 15 major metropolitan cities which are within 80 km of a coastline – a trend that will continue to grow,” said CEO Grant Romundt. “With our experience in ocean technology innovation, we knew we could offer a path forward for offshore infrastructure that is both restorative and sustainable. We’ve been motivated by the opportunity to change and challenge the traditional real estate and tourism models and create first-in-

class living experiences that can give back to our ocean environment.”

DESIGN

Designed by Dutch architect, Koen Olthuis of Waterstudio. NL, who specialises in developing solutions

to problems posed by urbanisation and climate change, the SeaPods were created to accommodate the future needs of climate conscious residents and

travellers looking to live among the waves without sacrificing the luxuries of modern living. With over 50 square metres of panoramic windows and 360-degree unobstructed ocean views, the SeaPods offer more than 77 square metres of living space generously proportioned over 3 half floors, comprising a master bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathroom, and patio all situated more than 3.5 metres above the waves. The SeaPods also offer 35 cubic metres of storage space. For both SeaPods and GreenPods there are two shell designs available, the original flagship model and the new Eco model.

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TECHNOLOGY DRIVEN SERVICES & AMENITIES

An exclusive destination within itself, the Pods elevate luxury living with state-ofthe-art technology, top-tier amenities and customisable applications that will tailor both the design and functionality of each Pod to accommodate each resident and guest. Native Pod software allows for ease of home management from lighting, and temperature control to more advanced luxuries such as setting shower temperature and water pressure. The software will continue to update as services and automations are added allowing each Pod to evolve with the latest capabilities that are constantly being developed. A wearable smart ring will offer residents another means for conveniently controlling various touch points and applications throughout the Pods – with a simple wave of the hand, the rings can unlock doors, turn on music, and more.

The power source is solar electric with a backup generator to supplement and water is collected from rainwater for showers, washing machines, and for the kitchen and

bathroom sinks. There is also a desalination machine in case of insufficient rain, with minerals being added to water rendering it healthy to drink. The Pods contain separate tanks for storing salt water, rainwater, drinking water, grey water, and black water.   Aerial Delivery Drones, customised and perfected to withstand high winds and other overwater conditions will be used to deliver food, medicine, and everyday smaller items while the ASTRO (Autonomous Surface Transport & Recycling Operations) ASV (Autonomous Surface Vessel) will be able to safely transport up to 200 kg for larger deliveries including luggage, furniture, and for resident transport to and from the SeaPods. The ASTRO ASV will also act as an ocean recycling vessel to help collect trash and debris, and clean up the area surrounding the stuctures. The exterior of the Pods themselves can be cleaned with an extendable cleaning device.

The SeaPods are each anchored to three fixed points with individual anchors for stability. This also provides them with a precise location which streamlines drone deliveries. ›

ECO-RESTORATIVE LIVING

The launch of the SeaPods marks the introduction of the eco-restorative home. With the driving focus on sustainability, every aspect of the Pods, from design to application and operations, has been created to benefit the surrounding environment. Through the eco restorative home, Ocean Builders has developed the capacity to create a natural habitat for ocean life to occupy and thrive based on the design and engineering of each Pod – ultimately attracting sea life that generates flourishing

underwater ecosystems. Speaking directly of the new, first-of-its-kind offering, Grant Romundt stated, “We no longer live in a world of impossibilities. We are sending people to space and childlike dreams are quickly becoming a reality. We are creating a new real estate asset class and luxury lifestyle that will redefine how and where we live while optimising the health, safety, and sustainability of the environments that house the Pods and the residents and guests who will ultimately occupy them.”

AVAILABILITY

To begin with, the first SeaPods will be located offshore in Panama. By the end of 2023, Ocean Builders will have the first 100 fully owned custom Pods in production or delivered. A second deployment of over 1,000 fully owned Pods will begin in 2024. As a result of demand, the first land-based GreenPods will be installed in Panama next summer. The technology is the same, but more simplified. The company is working towards an announcement on where the first international GreenPod will be based.

ABOUT OCEAN BUILDERS

Ocean Builders is an oceaninnovation technology company based in Puerto Lindo, Panama. Their mission is to develop revolutionary blue technology that makes the 72 per cent of the world that is covered in water into an eco-sustainable paradise. Ocean Builders’ innovative and proprietary technology will allow civilisation to move onto the sea and it will unlock the ocean as a new frontier with a quality of life that is unrivalled anywhere else. The company believes that by learning to live on the water, they will open a new wave of eco-sustainable innovation that will lead to living more sustainably on land.  FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.OCEANBUILDERS.COM

100 YEARS OF WONDER

In 1923, a MidWest small town boy graded ‘second dumbest in the class’ landed in Hollywood with $40, a home-made cartoon film and conjured up the mightiest media empire on the planet with his magic pencil. As the Walt Disney Company kicks off a year of centennial celebrations around the globe this month, essential checks out the true story behind the fairytale House of Mouse.

Disney turns 100

hether you grew up with Mary Poppins, Spongebob or The Lion King, a family trip to the cinema to see a Disney film has become a rite of passage to a happy, wellrounded childhood. Which was just how Uncle Walt (never Mr Disney) dreamed it should be.

The alchemist animator brought magic to the cinema with his hand-drawn world of make-believe, where

Welephants can fly and orphaned cartoon fawns can bring a tear to grown-up eyes. Once asked why all his films have happy endings, he said: “I hate to see a downbeat picture, it makes me feel everything’s dirty around me. I know it isn’t that way and I don’t want anybody telling me it is.”

Disney Studios was born 100 years ago in a garage equipped with a bed sheet for a projection screen. Cinema was still in its silent days and cartoons were merely warm-

up acts for the main movie. Disney took them to the top of the bill. In its fifth year, the studio had its first cartoon ‘talkie’ hit: Steamboat Willie, starring Mickey and Minnie in synchronised sound, was less than eight minutes long but it became more popular than the feature film it supported. Nine years later, serious movie buffs were joining the queues for Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

The world’s first animated feature film enthralled audiences for 83 minutes, ›

©Disney

Mickey was Walt’s second big idea

Steamboat Willie launched Mickey’s career

“If you can dream it, you can do it. Always remember, this whole thing started with a dream and a mouse.”

Walt Disney

took 200 years in ‘man hours’ to make and was the world’s highestgrossing film until Gone with the Wind

Colour, 3D, famous actor voices and catchy songs added to the Disney wonder, thanks to Walt’s boundless imagination and ferocious perfectionism. He sacked himself as an artist for not being good enough, and his greatest compliment was ‘That’ll do it’. He set up a Disney retraining course to sharpen his animators’ skills and even brought live animals into the studio… squeaking Mickeys, clucking Donalds, barking Goofies and Plutos… It was how young Walt had learned to draw them, down on the family farm in Missouri.

Walt, who died in 1966, wouldn’t believe what ‘this whole thing’ amounts to today: an empire ranked 53 in the Fortune 500 list of America’s richest companies with interests in TV, streaming, theme parks, consumer products, music publishing, resort hotels and cruise ships. Through its acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm and 20th Century Fox, Disney owns the rights to 14 of the world’s top franchises including Starwars, SpiderMan and Indiana Jones

Walt would be astounded by modern CGI techniques and appalled by last year’s LGBT+ kiss in Lightyear and Disney’s first gay hero in Strange World

Disney was a two-brother double act

An ultra-conservative Republican who fancied himself as the guardian of childhood innocence, he reckoned, “That’s the real trouble with the world. Too many people grow up.” He hid his own adult shortcomings behind Uncle Walt, a jollier, cleaned-up version of himself who didn’t drink alcohol or chain-smoke Chesterfields. “I am not Walt Disney,” he insisted. “I do a lot of things Walt Disney wouldn’t do.”

Today his Princess films are called sexist and his Peter Pan ‘redskins’ racist but there’s no arguing with Disney’s current 141 Oscar tally or Walt’s personal count of 32, an Oscar record. And he made a lot of people happy, including his longtime housekeeper who received company shares from Walt every Christmas, even when they were worth dimes. When she died in 1994, they fetched over $9 million. ›

The Disney Wish, fifth ship in the fleet ©Disney

The Cinderella Castle is a Disney theme park icon ©Spmartin15/ Wikimedia Commons

The

THE INVISIBLE PARTNER

Few people have heard of Roy O. Disney whose bronze likeness shares a park bench with Minnie Mouse in Florida’s Magic Kingdom. But without him the world might never have heard of his little brother Walt.

Walt dreamed of castles; Roy, his CEO and life-long business partner, got them built. “My job was to help Walt do the things he wants to do,” he said Roy the financial wizard who turned ‘Walt’s screwy ideas’ into bankable propositions. “If it hadn’t been for my big brother, I

swear I’d have been in jail several times for check bouncing”, Walt admitted.

It was Roy who raised funds for the studio’s beginnings, kept it afloat and carried out Walt’s hairbrained plans for a second theme park in Florida twice the size of Manhattan after his brother’s death, joking: “When I meet Walt again, if I hadn’t even tried to build that thing, I would really catch hell.”

Their spats were as legendary as their synergy.

Walt resented Roy’s ‘tightfisted mule headedness’; Roy complained that ‘Junior always had his hand in the cookie jar’.

“To the bankers who financed us, I’m sure Walt seemed like a wild man, hell-bent for bankruptcy,” Roy reminisced. “To me, he was my amazing kid brother, full of impractical dreams that he made come true.”

Cinderella Castle is a Disney theme park icon ©elisfkc/Wikimedia Commons

Disneyland was Walt’s dream come true ©Disney

THE MOUSE

He turns 95 this year but Mickey is not drawing his pension yet. The mouse who built the house of Disney heads up the world’s second biggest franchise after Pokémon. Walt originally called him Mortimer until his mother suggested Mickey was snappier, and he was the mouse’s falsetto voice for over two decades.

The first Mickey had circles for ears and tubes for limbs to make him easier to animate. In maturity the mischievous rodent has lost his tail, developed leadership skills, and learned greater respect for his

girlfriend Minnie. He still has a missing finger. “Five digits looked like a bunch of bananas,” explained Walt. “And financially, not having an extra finger in each of the 45,000 drawings saved the studio millions.”

Mickey has shaken hands with eight U.S. Presidents, he was the first non-human to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and he is the only cartoon mouse to win an Oscar, become a comic strip hero, and star in his own TV show. The Mickey Mouse Club aired from 1955 – 1996 and made Mouseketeer ears as famous as Playboy Bunnies.

THE BUNNY

Before Mickey there was Oswald the Lucky Rabbit who wasn’t that lucky for Walt. Signed up to invent a character for Universal Pictures, his funny bunny became a hit. But two years and 26 films later, Universal dropped the contract and Walt lost Oswald as he’d forgotten to sew up the rights. Mickey, Walt’s second big idea, was iron-clad in copyright and bears a striking family resemblance to Oswald... ›

Oswald the Mickey-lookalike rabbit

DISNEY’S FOLLY

It was the nickname everyone at the studio gave Walt’s plans to spend millions making the world’s first animated feature film. He had to mortgage the family home as well but Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs rewarded him handsomely – almost $2 billion in today’s money –enough to build the Burbank studios that’s still Disney HQ today.

A masterpiece of its time, it received a standing ovation in Hollywood, made the cover of Time magazine, and garnered an honorary Oscar and seven dwarfsized statuettes, presented to Walt by a 10-year-old Shirley Temple.

Snow White is still earning her keep, franchised out as merchandise, theme park attractions, video games, a Broadway musical, and a live-action film due out in 2024.

Animated feature films began with Snow White ©Disney

Shirley Temple presents Walt with an octet of Oscars

©Disney

Cars Land from the Disney-Pixar movie added vava-vroom in 2012

video

THE MAGIC NANNY

Mary Poppins was the Supe rcalifragilisticexpialidocious sensation of 1964. Blending humans with cartoons and jaw-dropping special effects. The Chim-chiminey rooftop routine and Julie Andrews’ duet with a robotic robin were scene-stealers and everyone knew the words to the songs.

The movie paid for Walt Disney World in Florida, well-worth the 20 years of trans-Atlantic phone calls and

flights to London it took to acquire the film rights from Australian-British author P.L. Travers. Despite its five Oscar wins, she hated it, especially Mary Poppins who was a spoonful of sugar too sweet for her liking.

Disney turned the backstory into another great movie, Saving Mr Banks, starring Tom Hanks as Walt and Emma Thompson as the reluctant author. ›

A 1964 sensation, starring Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke ©Disney

California Adventure Park extended Disneyland in 2001 ©Disney

Strange World (2022) introduced Disney’s first gay hero ©Disney

WALT’S HAPPYLAND

Walt wanted Disneyland California to be ‘the happiest place on earth’ but history remembers 1955’s grand opening as Black Sunday.

Gate-crashed by thousands of counterfeit ticket holders, the scorching weather added to the meltdown as stiletto heels and pushchair wheels sank into the newly-laid tarmac. The day was saved by Disney’s new ABC’s TV show when half of America watched co-host Ronald Reagan hobnobbing with Davy Crockett, after which ticket sales and orders for coonskin hats went viral.

Inspired by the boredom of ‘Daddy’s Day’ Saturdays in the park, watching his two daughters on the chidlren’s roundabout, Disneyland was a place parents could enjoy too. The American Dream on steroids, Fantasyland celebrated the pursuit of happiness, Frontierland respresented the pioneering spirit, Tomorrowland characterised the relentless drive for progress, and Smellitizers sweetened the air with popcorn aromas. Disneyland’s success is replicated at five

other resorts in Florida, Paris, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai which between them welcome 157 million visitors yearly. Walt only lived to christen the first but the trainmad kid who wanted to be an engine driver when he grew up was never prouder than when he opened the Disneyland Monorail in 1959. It was the first daily operating system in the Western Hemisphere.

Walt wouldn’t recognise Disneyland today. As he predicted, it will never stop growing ‘as long as there’s imagination left in the world’.

THE DISNEY LOOK

Although Walt cultivated a lip rug, Cast Members (as theme park staff are called) were forbidden facial hair for decades. Rules were relaxed to permit moustaches in 2000, beards in 2012 and tattoos and body piercings in 2021.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR DISNEY 100 CENTENNIAL EVENTS IN SPAIN AT WWW.DISNEY.ES/DISNEY100

Ferrari is by no means the first high-end sports car manufacturer to bring us an SUV, but that’s probably more an indication of the company’s painstaking development process and reluctance to rush a product into the market.

FERRARI PUROSANGUE SUV

WORDS TONY WHITNEY

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A

MOC.ENIZAG

Rivals like Lamborghini, Porsche and Aston Martin have been very successful with their SUV entries and around the auto industry, there are m any luxury carmakers that have seen SUVs quickly outsell conventional saloons and sports cars.

To be truthful, the Ferrari Purosangue (Italian for ‘thoroughbred’) doesn’t look much like your average SUV. In fact, when referencing the product, Ferrari refers to its history of building four-seat touring cars over the decades rather than breaking into the sports utility market. Looking at the Purosangue’s admirable styling, it’s easy to imagine that reducing the height by a few centimetres would create something more like a sportback design and all thoughts of an SUV would vanish. There are some novel touches to the body layout. The rear doors are hinged at the back like many RollsRoyce models and this should certainly ease entry and exit. The roof is fabricated from carbon fibre to reduce weight and the boot is the biggest ever seen on a Ferrari. It looks every inch a Ferrari and enthusiasts of the marque are going to be lining up for it. ›

When the time came to choose a drivetrain for the Purosangue, the Maranello icon decided to bring us ‘the full Ferrari’ and not follow several rival super-luxury SUVs by opting for some kind of electrified system. Packed under the long bonnet in mid-front-mounted configuration is a 6.5-litre V-12 that attains some 725-horsepower without turbocharging. It’s all brute power and it certainly promises to get the job done in fine style with a zero to 100 km/h time of around 3.3-seconds and for the bold, a top speed of 310 km/h. The rearmounted transmission is an 8-speed automatic with which the driver can opt for manual shifts. A power transfer unit is coupled at the front of the engine to provide four-wheel drive. This layout gives optimal weight distribution for outstanding poise and handling. The interior of the Purosangue won’t disappoint people used to the

outstanding quality and fit and finish that comes with all products from Ferrari. The leather upholstery is especially impressive and visitors to the Ferrari factory are often surprised to see fine hides being hand tailored close to the actual production line and not farmed out to a sub-contractor. The seats themselves are interesting and there are just the four and not the common three-seat rear layout. The rear seats are similar in design to the front pair and thus have maximum hip-hugging capability for fast driving on winding roads. Each seat is individually adjustable, another feature never seen before on a Ferrari. Various trim combinations of leather, fabrics and carbon fibre can be chosen by the buyer. ›

A surprise vintage cue is the dash with its twin binnacles that will remind some enthusiasts of old Chevy Corvettes. The left binnacle carries all the driver’s instrumentation and the right one, the usual infotainment screen. According to Ferrari, inspiration for the cabin came from the SF90 Stradale, which most buyers will be very happy about. Ferrari points out that sustainable materials were used throughout the interior. Interestingly, the carpets were recycled from polyamide fishing nets recovered from the oceans. Owners will be able to delight in a Burmester high-end surround sound system that’s about as sophisticated as audible entertainment can get, though many owners will find all the satisfaction they need in the wonderful burble and roar of the V-12 engine.

Many observers were predicting that Ferrari would be the last maker to field an entry in the luxury SUV field, but the Purosangue will prove them wrong and perhaps set new standards for the class. As far as looks and performance go, there’s very little out there to match it. No pricing has been officially announced, but speculation is running around the €390.000 mark. e

» EV DRIVE SYSTEM 6.5-litre V-12, 725-horsepower.

» TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic with manual override.

» ACCELERATION Zero to 100 km/h 3.3-seconds.

» TOP SPEED 310 km/h.

» I LIKED Flawless styling that’s somewhere between a sports coupé and an unusually sporty SUV. Great vintage touch with the normally aspirated V-12 engine. Superlative interior.

» I DIDN’T LIKE Some level of electrification would have been desirable but it won’t put off Ferrari fans.

»

MARKET ALTERNATIVES

Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX, Bentley Bentayga, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Maserati Levante Trofeo.

» WHO DRIVES ONE? Ferrari owners and collectors will be first in line and as always, the company will take care of their needs before accepting orders from other buyers.

» PRICE AND AVAILABILITY €390.000 predicted. Available during 2023.

Two performances

by Daisy Edgar-Jones (

Normal People

and

the Crawdads Sing) have caused quite a stir among lovers of the cinematic arts. Marisa Cutillas finds out why this British thespian is already being touted as one of the greatest promises of her generation.

Where

DAISY EDGAR-JONES

A LESSON IN SUBTLETY

Daisy Edgar-Jones seemed to arise out of nowhere when she caused her first shockwaves in the BBC Three/Hulu/Screen Ireland series, Normal People (2020). In reality, by the time this series aired, she had already tested her mettle at acting for several years. At the age of seven, she starred as Anne Boleyn in a school play and her parents were surprised to see their otherwise shy, reserved daughter venting her fury on Henry VIII. It was during this performance that they realised their daughter had an authentic gift. When Daisy was 15, her mother encouraged her to audition for the National Youth Theatre, where she made great strides in her technique. The talented actor also studied at the Open University. ›

Daisy’s parents were slightly reluctant to encourage their daughter’s talent since acting can be such an unstable job. They were well-versed in the competitiveness of the industry. Daisy’s mother, Wendy, is a film editor, and her father was the director and head of entertainment at Sky Arts. However, it was clear that she was made for success in showbusiness and her early screen credits included British comedydrama, Cold Feet, and sci-fi hit, War of the Worlds The series that made audiences across the globe sit up and take notice, of course, was the TV adaptation of Sally

Rooney’s best-selling book, Normal People. Daisy played Marianne, a studious, filterfree, outspoken student who has no friends at school and who sometimes gets on her teachers’ nerves because of her strong character. She meets her match in Connell (Paul Mescal), a gifted student and athlete who, contrary to Daisy, is well-liked but is struggling to work out what he wants from life. The two build a solid bond when Connell discovers that Daisy is suffering abuse at the hand of her brother. Although Connell ends up accepting an offer to study in New York, the series successfully captures the way that some people

can have a powerful impact on our future, even if they are only with us for a limited time.

Daisy’s next big hit was Where the Crawdads Sing (2022) – a film adaptation of the novel by Delia Owens. Again, Daisy plays a somewhat lonely, multilayered character. She gives life to Kya, a girl who is abandoned by her family in an old shack in a North Carolina marsh in 1953 and who survives by selling mussels to the owners of a general store. Kya is as mysterious as the creatures of the marsh she inhabits and she allows different men to enter her life. The first is Tate, a boy who teaches her how to read and write but who eventually leaves, adding to her sense of abandonment. The second is the popular quarterback, Chase, who promises to marry her, but who is already engaged to someone else. The film is actually a mystery thriller, with audiences keen to find out who killed one of the main characters. It is also a study of the profound and unconditional nature of friendship and love.

VISITWWW.ESSENTIALM

What is it about Daisy that has led her career to skyrocket? The answer can be found in one word: subtlety. After watching Normal People, Marvel actor, Sebastian Stan, was touched by her “authentic, complex, layered performance.” He begged to work with her on his next project, Fresh – a genre-twisting film that starts as a romantic comedy and quickly transforms into a horror piece. Stan praised the actor’s inherent wisdom,” to GQ, saying that she has “a real intelligence that she exudes quite naturally.” ›

It is said that Daisy’s reactions cannot be seen, but rather, felt. Her acting is no more than a reflection of how people really behave in tense, emotionallychallenging situations. Most people don’t perform Laurence Olivier’s sweeping gestures or raise an eyebrow sardonically like Vivienne Leigh in Gone With the Wind. Conveying emotion, in the end, is all about empathy; putting oneself in a character’s shoes and reacting as they

would, by holding tension tight within the body or by showing a subtle change in the expression of the eyes. Daisy hones this ability to perfection, portraying everything her character is thinking with little effort. Her acting is instinctual and therefore somewhat beyond the realms of technique and study.

Daisy may only be 24, but she has already been nominated for a host of accolades, including a Golden Globe (2020) for

her nuanced portrayal of Marianne in Normal People

She was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Hollywood Critics Association TV Awards (2022). Without a doubt, she is an actor we will be seeing plenty of, both on the big and small screen. For now, she is pleased to have bought a home in the city she loves – London –and sometimes, she still can’t believe that she is firmly on her way to global stardom. e

The Open University (OU) has come a long way since its launch in 1969, having helped over 2.2 million people from across the globe achieve their learning goals. It is one of the largest universities in Europe, boasting around 205,420 students. It is fascinating to think that just three years ago, OU celebrated its 50th anniversary. In 2022, it commemorated many more momentous occasions, including the 50th anniversary of its Students Association and the fact that it ranked first for student satisfaction in Northern Ireland.

Somehow, the idea behind the launch of this educational institution – that technology could be used to bring education to a wide audience – very much captures the zeitgeist of the current millennium. During the pandemic, technology kept businesses open, enabled teams to work collaboratively, and maintained professional and social connections. It also ensured that students of all ages continued to learn and progress in their courses. Of course, this situation

was inconceivable when the founders of this long-distance institution opened the doors to the idea of higher education for people from all income groups.

WHAT ARE THE ORIGINS OF THE OPEN UNIVERSITY?

The roots of the OU can be traced back to the early 1960s, when the Labour Party (under the leadership of Prime Minister Harold Wilson) took action to end inequality in higher education. In a lecture to the OU Students’ Association in 1977, Wilson

recalled that he had begun working on the idea for the Open University prior to his election. In late 1963, he gave his famous ‘white heat of technology speech’ during the Labour Party conference in Scarborough, which has been described as “one of the most memorable political speeches of the 20th century.” Wilson spoke of opening a “university of the air… designed to provide an opportunity for those who for some reason or another have been unable to take advantage of higher education.” ›

He cited the capacity of new technologies to enable students to avail of a state-sponsored correspondence course. These students could count on the facilities of a university for setting and marking papers and awarding degrees.

Wilson entrusted the ‘open-air university’ task to Jennie Lee, Minister for the Arts. It is said that without her, the OU would have remained but a dream. Her tenacity and commitment enabled her to overcome obstacles such as indifference and a lack of vision.

WHY IS THE OPEN UNIVERSITY SO POPULAR?

Flexibility is one of the key pillars of the

OU’s success. Full- or part-time workers who have always wanted to obtain a university degree, or undergraduates and graduates who wish to obtain higher qualifications, are attracted by the idea of studying at their own pace, while earning an income.

The OU taps into another profound need: that of continuous learning. In one recent UK-wide public sector employee survey, it was revealed that eight out of 10 public sector employees in Northern Ireland believe that learning and development are key to job satisfaction. Nearly half of employees hope to re-skill into a different role in the future, and they need training and education to achieve this goal.

“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire”

William Butler Yeats

The graduation ceremony at the OU

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The OU is built around the idea of openness. All you need to enrol in your chosen course is Internet access, sufficient knowledge of English, and payment of your enrolment fees. Qualifications at the OU comprise a series of modules, each of which has a specific fee. When you add all your chosen modules together, you can work out the total cost.

The OU site states that part-time students typically study one 60-credit module per year, which costs £3,228. The total price of your degree depends on your chosen course. For instance, a Certificate of higher education takes two years to complete, a Diploma of higher education takes four years, and an Honours degree takes six years. As such, the cost of your course can range from around £6,456 to £19,368.

Full-time students usually opt for two 60-credit modules a year; that is, they pay £6,456 annually. They essentially pay the same as part-time students do, but

in a shorter time frame, because they receive their qualification faster.

OU qualifications cost two-thirds of what campus-based universities in England cost. In other words, its students make a saving of around 30 per cent. The fees cover materials, tuition, assessment, and exams. Occasionally, students need to buy additional material (such as books) or incur the cost of travel to tutorials or exams. Some modules, moreover, include a residential school.

FLEXIBILITY ABOUNDS AT THE OU

A vast majority of students at the OU fit their studies around an existing job. Fortunately, they can complete their studies in as little as three years (fulltime) or take much longer if required. They can study at home, at their workplace, or while they are commuting, and all course materials can be accessed via apps and mobile devices.›

A PASSION FOR RESEARCH

WHAT

COURSES

ARE OFFERED AT THE OU?

The range of courses students can choose from is impressively wide, both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. They include Arts and Humanities, Biology, Chemistry, Combined Studies, Computing and IT, Counselling, Creative Writing, Criminology, Engineering, Film and Media, Health and Wellbeing, History, International Studies, Music, Politics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Social Work, and Statistics. There is a myriad of Master’s options, ranging from Computing to English Literature and Mathematics.

In 2021-2022, the OU ranked 813th in the world and 51st in the UK, as per Center for World University Rankings (CWUR). Students have shone in a host of areas. For instance, OU space scientists have played an important role in landmark missions, such as Rosetta, the first landing on a comet. Thanks to cutting-edge technology, researchers are learning about the intricacies of the universe and are working to overcome the many practical challenges our planet is facing. The OU’s main campus and research facilities are located around 80 km from London, in the town of Milton Keynes. PhD students who use laboratories attend classes on-campus; otherwise, study is fully remote. The Open University also has additional sites across the UK.

A sculpture by Tom Harvey at the OU

WHAT IS THE OU PLATFORM LIKE?

A pillar of the OU experience is its website, where all students can log onto their homepage and see their profile, newsfeed, email, calendar, and pertinent services and communities. They can also access their courses, each of which has a study planner. The latter provides users with regular checklists of activities, with each activity linking to corresponding course material. As students complete activities, they can cross items off and observe their progress. Students are expected to meet deadlines, but flexibility is available and student support is on hand if circumstances arise that prevent a student from completing their work.

TUTORS AT THE OU: THE HUMAN CONNECTION

Tutors support students throughout their learning and can be contacted directly if students need help. The tutor marks assignments (TMAs), provides feedback, and conducts live online sessions. Tutors are specialists in the subjects they teach; some of them also teach at brick universities. They are the heart of a student’s journey and it is

said that they are one of the most important reasons why the OU tends to rank so highly in national student satisfaction surveys.

During a live online session, students and their classmates use a web conferencing app to join everyone in a virtual classroom. They can communicate via chat, audio, or video, and work together on a shared blackboard. Tutors rely on a range of different methods to make teaching more dynamic.

WHAT IS ASSESSMENT LIKE?

At the OU, assessments comprise assignments, interactive computer-marked assignments (iCMAs), and exams. The latter consist of proctored exams (taken under the supervision of an invigilator), at an authorised examination centre. Another, less common type of exam is the end-of-module assignment (EMA), which is like a longer TMA that is marked by external examiners instead of one’s tutor.

WHAT IS GRADUATION LIKE AT THE OU?

If you’ve always wanted to don a gown and throw your hat up in the air, know that you can do so at the OU. The institution organises graduation ceremonies throughout the year in designated venues across the UK. Attendance is a great way to finally meet your virtual tutors and classmates in person and to receive applause from the family and friends who have supported you throughout your academic journey.

Javier Rodríguez is the driving force behind Higuerón Resort, which has pioneered an unrivalled residential community. Preview tech trends that will make waves in 2023. Check out new releases for the big and smaller screens and consider becoming absorbed in a new book.

Javier Rodrig uez

THE CREATIVE FORCE BEHIND HIGUERÓN RESORT

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HIGUERÓN RESORT

When Javier Rodríguez and his brother Guillermo first began developing what was to become Higuerón Resort, it was an open field between Fuengirola and Benalmádena. Today, it is the premium residential resort in this part of the Costa del Sol. We look back at a career that spans over 30 years dedicated to creating a residential community designed around quality of life.

An architect who studied at the prestigious Berkeley University in California, USA, Javier Rodríguez designed many of the properties and communal amenities that have come to shape Higuerón Resort, including the original masterplan around which three decades of development have been based. “I was particularly involved in the design of most of the earlier projects,” says the CEO of Higuerón Resort, “but in later years my overall workload shifted the emphasis to overseeing the architectural styling of the villas and apartment

complexes we created within the resort.”

The style has always been a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean architectural traditions, and in this way Higuerón Resort reflects the trends of the past three decades while always remaining true to a central philosophy. “We love what we do and consider it an honour to be designing homes and creating a living environment. The amount of space within Higuerón Resort allowed us to produce a masterplan with a vision for its future development, with stages of coordinated and complementary construction and expansion of both homes and amenities.”

As a result, Higuerón Resort has a more organised and harmonious feel than most residential areas on the Costa del Sol, giving the gated community a distinct country club feel – a rarity within this part of the coast.

“Our architectural style has become increasingly fresh and modern, with whitetoned homes that often carry a touch of retro-modern inspiration but are always designed to be comfortable, elegant and practical – and to make the most of the climate, environment and views of this region,” says Javier. “And from our hillside vantage point, spectacular sea views are a true feature of Higuerón Resort.” ›

A COUNTRY CLUB NEAR FUENGIROLA

Easily accessed from the coastal highway yet truly private and tranquil, Higuerón Resort is also conveniently close to Mijas, Benalmádena and Fuengirola, with beaches and town amenities close by. For all this, Javier has always placed great importance on providing a very high standard of amenities on site, and for this reason developed them to a level that exceeds the norm on the Coast. “We’re proud to say that we’ve created a highly comfortable and convenient living environment that is also close to quality schools and other facilities in the surrounding area.”

The arrival of the Hilton hotel within the residential resort added a range of top-end amenities and services, including a state-of-the-art spa, gymnasium, exercise space for Pilates, Yoga and meditation, as well as one of the finest paddle, tennis and beach volley complexes within the province of Málaga. Recently completely refurbished and modernised, the Higuerón Hotel Curio Collection by Hilton is the first five-star hotel in the Fuengirola area and a true reference within the resort, providing residents with fine dining restaurants, panoramic cafés, elegant lounge areas and bars, and a rooftop pool club. The Beach Club Higuerón is the cherry on the cake, offering deluxe dining, a lounge, co-working, events and pool beach club environment at the beach closest to the resort.

video

The views from the last two are simply spectacular, setting the tone for a quality of life that is hard to equal.

“In addition to such facilities, we were also mindful to create an area with shops and traditional Spanish

cafés, including an express supermarket, but in recent years we have also become increasingly focused on quality of life, and the sense of creating a community.”

Higuerón Resort already has the feel of a community, but

realising that people need more than stylish homes and excellent practical and leisure amenities alone, Javier and his team set about adding that elusive element. ›

A COMMUNITY BUILT AROUND QUALITY OF LIFE

“While it is easier to define and create amenities such as a spa or sports area, adding a sense of community and well-being to a residential resort is more difficult,” says the CEO, who sought it in the flow of green spaces and the interconnectivity of Higuerón Resort. “Having just visited Dubai with some members of the team, you realise how important traffic flow is, as well as creating car-free areas, green spaces, and zones that prioritise pedestrians and cyclists.

This sense of visual and personal contact then also optimises the facilities of Higuerón Resort, and indeed, one of its characteristics is that many of our residents of varied nationalities regularly get together for a chat and a drink after sport, gym or just to socialise. It is this detail that changes a resort development typical of the Costa del Sol into a true living community, and while we’re very conscious of the responsibility involved in creating a living environment, we’re also very proud of what we’ve achieved.”

The newest homes at Higuerón Resort are divided into the luxury apartments

and penthouses that form part of the Higuerón Collection – with full access to the resort’s spa, gym and sports facilities – and the branded Residences, which also enjoy full five-star hotel services. “Such homes offer a further lifestyle enhancement and convenience for those who prefer to blend the ideal mix of private home and hotel comfort,” says Javier, “and they’re a reflection of how we’re always seeking to evolve and innovate.”

He believes Higuerón Resort will be his life’s work, and now is putting great emphasis on sustainable development as the ultimate way to create the ideal living environment. “At the new Higuerón South Residences, 1,000 trees will be planted to create a parkland area within the resort. We work hard to make Higuerón Resort better with every passing year, not only in how we design and develop homes and amenities, but also in how we maintain and operate them, all together forming part of a vibrant, living community.”

(+34) 952 661 174.

wwhat’s cool?

COMPILED BY IAIN BLACKWELL

BALLOON MUSEUM

The Art of Sculpting Air was the awardwinning theme presented by the Balloon Museum for its exhibition at BEA World 2022 in Rome, the most coveted festival in the world of events and live communication. The Balloon Museum which has received more than a million visitors in only a few months, landed in Milan on December 23.

HOTEL LA PLETA 5*

Eurostars Hotel Group has just added the emblematic Hotel La Pleta 5* to its portfolio, a benchmark for luxury hotels in the Val d’Aran. Located in the Baqueira Beret ski resort in the Spanish Pyrenees, only metres from the Esquirós chairlift, this unique hotel offers 68 rooms with spectacular views, many of them over 40m2

CASUAL RINASCIMENTO FIRENZE & SPA

Casual Hotels chain, with 22 hotels in Spain and Portugal, has launched its first establishment in the historic centre of Florence in Tuscany. Comprising three independent 15th century palaces, the new hotel offers 37 individually decorated rooms incorporating aspects of Italian Renaissance across four thematic floors.

WWW.CASUALHOTELS.COM

LEXUS ELECTRIFIED

The dynamic new Lexus RZ 450e will achieve segmentleading efficiency with a battery that is expected to retain 90 per cent of its capacity after 10 years of use. Among many technological enhancements, the stunning new vehicle features new DIRECT4 all-wheel drive force control and One Motion Grip steering.

WWW.LEXUS.COM

SOLUTIONS GUIDE FOR CITIES

The Solar Impulse Foundation has launched the Solutions Guide for Cities to help major urban centres achieve their net zero goals. The Guide was presented during COP 27 and pilot cities such as Lisbon, Stockholm, Geneva and Paris will explore the implementation of clean solutions from the Solar Impulse portfolio.

WWW.SOLARIMPULSE.COM

LINDT LAUNCHES IN MÁLAGA

The Swiss premium chocolate company, Lindt & Sprüngli has opened its first boutique at the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. With stores also in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Mallorca, and Bilbao, the prestigious brand offers an unforgettable shopping experience perusing its many chocolate delicacies.

WWW.LINDT.ES

CASABLANCA – THE WEBSTER

Dynamic clothing company, Casablanca Paris aligned with luxury multi-brand retailer, The Webster for the launch of an Art Decoinspired capsule for the 20th anniversary of Art Basel Miami Beach. The collection paid homage to an imaginary Casablanca Arts Club, with fantasy landscapes and architectural silhouettes.

WWW.ARTBASEL.COM

HOTEL ARTS BARCELONA

– WE COLLECT

The collaboration between Hotel Arts Barcelona and We Collect, supporting emerging artists and providing the unusual experience of sleeping in an art gallery, will continue in 2023. From January until April, the Signatura Suite will feature 81 photographs created by the Madrid-based artist, Beatriz Dubois.

WWW.HOTELARTSBARCELONA.COM

TECH TRENDS FOR 2023

WORDS BASH SARMIENTO

THIS ARTICLE EXPLORES THE TECHNOLOGICAL TRENDS THAT WILL RULE THE IT INDUSTRY IN 2023.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

Even though artificial intelligence has been around for years, AI and its development has been incredibly pervasive. We are already benefiting from its fruits, from simple Internet searches and ways to pass the time, to more complex mechanisms like online shopping, navigation, multitasking, and the development of more intelligent algorithms.

And the buzz will not die anytime soon. Big tech players like Google CEO Sundar Pichai say that AI will have a greater significance to human civilisation “than

fire or electricity.” 2023 and beyond will continue to be more accessible thanks to the developing ecosystem of as-a-service platforms and nocode AI solutions. In addition to this, with less of a barrier to entry in terms of technology infrastructure and finance, entrepreneurs with innovative ideas will be able to develop new AI-enhanced goods and services that improve or simplify our lives.

THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMART CITIES

Furthering tech globalisation comes smarter and smarter systems. The pandemic has also resulted in so many

changes in urban planning that expedited the development of smart cities. These cities rethink and adapt their urban ecosystems to develop new ways its residents live and work. By fusing tech applications, data, and public use, society has created systems and communities that are in tune to the needs of citizens as well as changing technologies with the goal of streamlining urban planning and enhancing quality of life for everyone. Most tech changes can be seen in public transportation, digital connectivity, smart energy, health, and citizen involvement.›

SINCE THE WORLD IS INCREDIBLY IMMERSED IN TECH, SOCIETY HAS BEEN ITS AUDIENCE TO WATCH ITS DYNAMIC EVOLUTION. OUR NEEDS AS USERS ARE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING, AND IT BUSINESSES ARE EAGER TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN PEOPLE AND TECHNOLOGY.

CYBERSECURITY

Even though cybersecurity is not new in the world of tech, it has been developing at an exponential speed, much like other technologies. This is due to the ongoing emergence of new threats, and the move to prioritise protecting sensitive data. Since more and more malicious hackers are launching increasingly sophisticated attacks to gain unauthorised access to big data, modern tech is also always looking for ways to improve security. In addition to this, jobs in automated security will not only grow in number but also in popularity. Roles like ethical hackers, malware analysts, security officers and security engineers will offer lucrative careers for

people who will pursue them.

THE INTERNET OF THINGS

IoT is another intriguing emerging technology topic. Nowadays, a lot of ‘things’ are constructed with WiFi connectivity, allowing them to connect to the Internet and to one another. The Internet of Things is the wave of the future, and it has already made it possible for gadgets, home appliances, cars, and many other things to be connected to the Internet and exchange data.

We have already benefited from IoT as consumers. These can be seen from tracking our fitness stats on Fitbits, remotely locking our car and house doors, or even turning

on and off our household or office appliances. As data is gathered and analysed, the IoT may help businesses make decisions that are safer, more efficient, and more informed. And in addition to its other numerous benefits, it can enable predictive maintenance, expedite medical treatment, enhance customer service, and more.

VR, AR, AND ER

Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Extended Reality (ER) are some of the newest outstanding technological trends that Big Tech is getting to play with. While AR improves the environment, VR immerses the user in it. Although up until now, gaming has been the main application for this technology trend, it has also been utilised for training, as seen with VirtualShip, a simulation program used to train U.S. Ship captains from the Navy, Army, and Coast Guard.

The world of tech can also expect the Metaverse to be one of the greatest expectations to come out of the VR/AR/ER experience. Since Mark Zuckerberg started the metaverse craze in the latter half of 2021, a wide range of significant

businesses in a variety of sectors – from banking to fashion, entertainment, and video gaming — have joined the bandwagon. They’re hoping to connect with the first wave of early adopter metaverse users, who are primarily thought to be members of generation Z, as well as showcase their coolness by being involved in the early stages of the ‘next big thing.’

SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGY

For the benefit of our planet’s landscapes and the energy we consume, everyone has committed to go green. As a result, homes use greener options like solar and renewable energy while cars run on electricity or batteries. And because of the constant push for more sustainable tech, we become more aware of their own

trash contributions and carbon footprints. This in turn makes it easier to convince consumers to convert to renewable energy. Companies both in big tech and other sectors have also made a commitment to be environmentally stable, and this will be more prominent in 2023. The environmental consequences of some of these data-driven and computationally intensive technologies can occasionally be kept secret in cloud data centres, where the businesses using the technology will never see or touch them. In 2023, this trend of we the customers, as well as investors looking for green credentials will continue to grow.

BLOCKCHAIN

Although the majority of people only associate blockchain technology

with digital currencies like Bitcoin, it actually provides security that is beneficial in a variety of other contexts. Blockchain may be summed up as data that you can only add to, not subtract from, or change. Hence the nature of the ‘chain’ of data is considered safe because prior blocks cannot be changed.  Blockchain eliminates the requirement for a reliable third party to supervise or verify transactions. They are also consensus-driven, meaning no one organisation can control the data.

Several industries are involving and implementing blockchain, and as the use of blockchain technology increases, so too does the demand for skilled professionals. From a birds eye view, a blockchain developer specialises in developing and implementing architecture and solutions using blockchain technology.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON TRENDS

We are definitely at the best seat in the house to watch the new and exciting developments in tech and beyond. The industry is filled with great potential that is beneficial to us as individuals and as a society. e

HOT NEW MOVIES

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

SHE SAID

» Director: Maria Schrader (Love Life)

» Genre: True Story

» Actors: Zoe Kazan, Carey Mulligan, Mike Houston

» Plot: She Said dramatises the New York Times investigation that brought down Harvey Weinstein. It delves into the changing nature of Hollywood and the launch of the #MeToo movement. Two journalists – Megan Twohey and Jodi Kantor – set the wheel in motion, revealing decades of silence concerning the subjects of sexual assault and harassment.

BABYLON

» Director: Damien Chazelle (Whiplash)

» Genre: Comedy/ Drama

» Actors: Brad Pitt, Margot Robbie, Tobey Maguire, Jean Smart

» Plot: Babylon chronicles the rise and fall of many Hollywood figures, several of which are based on real-life characters.

Brad Pitt’s character, for instance, is said to be inspired by silent film star, John Gilbert, whose career plummeted when talking films began. Margot Robbie, meanwhile, is playing actress Clara Bow – an actor who managed to transition smoothly from silent films to talkies. American actress, Jean Smart, gives life to a journalist whose power was such that she could make or break careers.

WOMEN TALKING

» Director: Sarah Polley (Stories We Tell)

» Genre: Drama

» Actors: Rooney Mara, Claire Foy, Jessie Buckley

» Plot: If you are a fan of the series The Handmaid’s Tale, then this film will be up your street. It is the adaptation of Miriam Toews’ 2016 book, Women Talking, which chronicles a debate between eight women in a Mennonite colony. They have just discovered a terrible deception: nine men have repeatedly been drugging and raping them for years before one is caught in the act. As the women determine how to react, themes like the essence of faith, the need for traumatic healing, and sexual empowerment all come to the fore.

TÁR

» Director: Todd Field (Little Children)

» Genre: Drama

» Actors: Cate Blanchett, Noémie Merlant, Nina Hoss, Allan Corduner

» Plot: Cate Blanchett plays Lydia Tár – a renowned composer-conductor with perfect pitch and exceptional hearing abilities, who is days away from conducting the symphony that will elevate her career to new heights. As the date of her big day approaches, memories and consequences of her past actions begin to haunt her, and she relies on her daughter to get through the pain of her impending downfall.

OPERATION FORTUNE

» Director: Guy Ritchie (Sherlock Holmes)

» Genre: Action/ Adventure

» Actors: Jason Statham, Aubrey Plaza, Josh Hartnett. Hugh Grant

» Plot: Action hero, Jason Statham, plays Orson Fortune, an elite spy who must stop the sale of a new deadly weapons technology developed by billionaire broker, Greg Simmonds. Fortune reluctantly teams up with talented operatives to achieve the impossible. He also enlists the aid of a movie star to help them embark on an undercover mission that results in comic as well as thrilling episodes. e

FIVE NETFLIX SERIE S TO WATCH OUT FOR IN 2023

Netflix has completely revolutionised the entertainment industry, with series like Squid Game and Stranger Things receiving 1.65 billion and 1.25 billion viewing hours, respectively. The start of a new year is always exciting for series fans, who wait with bated breath for new seasons of their favourite series and are keen to discover brandnew ones with different characters, actors, and plots to fall in love with. Below are just a few of the most awaited programmes for 2023.

KAOS

Creator, Charlie Covell (The End of the F***ing World ) brings us Kaos – a drama that reinterprets Greek mythology, lending it a dark comedy feel while exploring gender politics, power, and life in the underworld. Jeff Goldblum plays Zeus – the allpowerful God who begins to worry that he is getting old and that his reign is coming to an end. Meanwhile, six human beings discover that they are connected to each other (and to an ancient prophecy) and decide to engage in battle against the group of narcissistic gods headed by Zeus. Also starring Janet McTeer, Cliff Curtis, and David Thewlis.

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER

Showrunner, Albert Kim, brings adventure/fantasy fans a liveaction adaption of the animated TV series of the same name: Avatar: The Last Airbender. It tells the story of 12-year-old Aang: the current Avatar and sole survivor of his nation, the Air Nomads. He is joined by his loyal friends Katara, Sokka, and Toph. Together, they aim to end the Fire Nation’s war against a myriad of nations. Meanwhile, Zuko – an exiled Prince from the Fire Nation – seeks to capture Aang to redeem himself and gain the glory he craves. Featuring the voices of Mark Hamill, Zach Tyler Eisen, and Mae Whitman.

QUEEN CHARLOTTE: A BRIDGERTON STORY

Shonda Rimes (creator of Grey’s Anatomy) fascinated audiences with her first major series on Netflix –Bridgerton. This spin-off focuses on the younger years of one of the series’ most popular characters: Queen Charlotte. Queen Charlotte will feature Golda Rosheuvel as the Queen, Adjoa Andoh as Lady Danbury (a quickwitted, bright-eyed doyenne of London society), and Hugh Sachs as Brimsley (the Queen’s indiscreet and gossiploving secretary).

A MAN IN FULL

Famed Hollywood creator and actor/director, David E. Kelley (Big Little Lies) and Regina King (This Is Us) have allied with Netflix to produce an adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s 1998 novel, A Man in Full. The limited series is centred around three main characters. The first is Charles Croker – an ex-college football star who is now a conglomerate king living in Atlanta. Charles has an enormous quail-shooting plantation, a younger and demanding second wife, and a half-empty office building that is overburdened by debt. The second is Conrad Hensley – a young husband and father who is laid off from his job at one of Charles Croker’s companies. The third is Fareek Fanon – a footballer who is accused of assaulting the daughter of a pillar of the white establishment. Starring Jeff Daniels and Diane Lane.

YOU S4

Lovers of psychological thrillers with a comedic twist just can’t get enough of You – the series about one of the most charming yet twisted serial killers you could ever imagine. Based on the books by Caroline Kepnes, You taps into common issues in everyday life – including how we use technology and connect with those surrounding us. In Season Four, Joe Goldberg heads to London, where he takes on the persona of Professor Jonathan Moore. He becomes infatuated with an art gallery director called Kate (Charlotte Ritchie), which leaves us wondering what will become of his relationship with Marienne (Tati Gabrielle). The season will be divided into two parts. The first will launch on February 10 and the second on March 10. e

START THE NEW YEAR with an exciting new title!

THE SHARDS

BY BRET EASTON ELLIS

A captivating new novel from the awardwinning author of American Psycho and his first in 13 years. Ellis has unusually chosen to name the protagonist after himself and set it at the school he attended in the decade he was there. He has also used the moniker of a real serial killer; however, we are told that it is entirely a work of fiction which just increases the sense of tension and intrigue. 17 year-old Bret is a pupil at Buckley Private School with a close-knit elite group of friends who are only interested in hedonism and drug taking. When Robert Mallory transfers to Buckley from LA he is instantly welcomed into the fold, however Bret has reservations. He has become obsessed with a serial killer called The Trawler who is targeting young women. As he builds up a timeline of the murders it seems to coincide with Robert’s trips to and from LA. As always, Ellis has created a chilling and unnerving thriller

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

RESURRECTION

BY DAVID GILMAN

Ex French foreign legionnaire Dan ‘The Englishman’ Raglan is back in the third instalment of David Gilman’s bestselling espionage series. Although Raglan works as a fixer for British Intelligence, he keeps close ties with his fellow ex-legionnaires. Through this connection he discovers that a P51 Mustang with long-range drop tanks has appeared in the Sahara Desert carrying the skeleton of a man missing for three decades. His jacket has no insignia and handcuffed to his wrist is an attaché case carrying top secret documents. The British, French and Russian secret service are racing to retrieve the information, but Raglan is determined to get there first and solve a mystery spanning decades and involving his father. A high-octane mystery which can be read as a standalone novel.

AMAZING GRACE ADAMS

BY FRAN LITTLEWOOD

Grace Adams used to be amazing. She was a talented polyglot and life was brimming with possibilities. Twenty years later Grace is in her 40s, perimenopausal and her life is falling apart. She is separated from her husband, Ben, and estranged from her daughter, Lottie. One day Grace is stuck in a traffic jam on her way to Lottie’s 16th birthday party, which she has not been invited to, and she snaps. Abandoning both car and birthday cake, Grace starts walking. Not away from her life but towards it, in an attempt to repair her family and become amazing once more. A moving and captivation debut novel told with charm and wit.

SUNRISE:

POEMS

TO KICK-START YOUR DAY

BY SUSIE GIBBS

This beautiful collection of classic poems, edited by Susie Gibbs, is a lovely way to start the day. The poems featured are all motivating, energising, and uplifting. Focusing on themes of hope, tenacity, perseverance and purpose, Sunrise includes contributions from William Wordsworth, G. K. Chesterton, Ian McMillan, Christina Rossetti, Walt Whitman, Emily Dickinson, and Edward Lear. Reassuring words and exquisite verse prepare the reader to face each day with confidence, enthusiasm, and a smile. It comes in a charming pocket-sized hardback format with ribbon markers. What a lovely and achievable New Year’s resolution: to start each day with a poem!

DEAD MAN’S CREEK

BY CHRIS HAMMER

The master of Australian crime is back! Nell Buchanan has been promoted to homicide detective and partnered with DS Ivan Lucic as part of a homicide unit based in the rural outback of New South Wales. When the body of a man is discovered in a regulator pool in Nell’s hometown of Tulong, the pair are sent to investigate. The man had died a long time ago from a bullet to the head. As Nell digs to uncover the truth and more bodies are discovered, long buried secrets are revealed in an investigation spanning over seventy years. The closer Nell gets to an answer, the more danger she finds herself in. A tense and captivating crime drama. e

VISIT THE BOOKSHOP

How about incorporating a fitness regime together with your pet? Find out how to improve your sleeping pattern. Check out men’s fashion for the coming spring and summer. Splurge on a pampering experience at a luxurious hotel or palace.

WORDS GAËLLE MOUSSET

LUXURY STAYS IN SOME OF THE BEST EUROPEAN PALACES

A warm welcome, a sumptuous room with soft pillows and satin sheets, a balcony with a breathtaking view, and special attention throughout the stay. This is the service we all dream of when staying in five-star hotels and palaces.

When it comes to luxury travel, guests now expect not only unparalleled comfort and fine wines, but more importantly, personalised service with unique and rewarding experiences. We have had the

privilege to stay in some of Europe's top palaces and these occasions have lived up to our expectations. Paris, Geneva, Madrid, these big cities have a very developed offer in terms of luxury hotels, enabling the discovery of each of them in a memorable way. We take you with us for this immersive encounter. ›

© Hôtel Plaza Athénée

© Hôtel Plaza Athénée

© Hôtel Plaza Athénée

PARIS MON AMOUR

Our association with some European palaces began in Paris, where we stayed at the sumptuous Mandarin Oriental on rue Saint Honoré, in one of the capital’s most chic districts. It is no secret that the Parisian hotel industry remains one of the best in the world and we really weren’t disappointed. The luxury sensation was felt from the moment we entered the lobby, with a very warm welcome, a glass of Champagne and a particular attention to our desires and expectations of our stay.

Surrounded by the most beautiful luxury brands in the Saint-Honoré district, the Mandarin Oriental hotel is the perfect combination of contemporary Parisian chic with the Asian influence of the group. Our room overlooked the beautiful courtyard terrace of Bar 8, where we could enjoy a delicious lunch or aperitif in an intimate atmosphere. The restaurant has been entrusted to Thierry Marx, who revisits the best of French and Asian cuisine. The hotel’s spa by Guerlain and indoor pool of 900m2 allowed us to relax after a long day of walking

through the streets of Paris. A Parisian stay would not be perfect without a delicious afternoon tea at the iconic Hôtel Plaza Athénée located in the Montaigne district. With its impressive five-star service, this remains a must when visiting the city. Their tea-time promises you a cosy moment to taste the delicious creations and ‘Croques-Plaza’ of their pastry chef and is highly recommended after a relaxing interlude at the Spa by Dior. The service and prestige of the hotel lives up to its faithful reputation acquired over the last century. ›

Today, luxury is in the detail, in the back of things, in a seam, a lining, in what is not seen, in surprises. Not in the extravagance, the decorative overkill.

Bruno Moinard

©

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

Happy New Year

© Mandarin Oriental Geneva

GENEVA, THE APOGEE OF LUXURY

Geneva, the city of watchmakers, chocolate confectioners, and luxury cars lining the streets, offers a wide range of sumptuous 5-star hotels and palaces. The palaces endeavour to accomplish whatever is necessary to create a difference and provoke curiosity. You must differentiate yourself at all costs by offering, for example, a customised service without fail. This is where the Mandarin Oriental Geneva surprised us.

Our Swiss stay took place at this revered establishment situated on the bank of the Rhone, which offers the ideal location for a walk to the city’s luxury boutiques and fine restaurants. The palace extolls the quintessence of modern Swiss hospitality, combining luxury, style and unparalleled service.

Our ‘crush’ upon arrival was the discovery of the hotel’s new Japanese restaurant, Sachi, offering exquisite combinations of modern Japanese signature dishes in an

innovative style. Chef Mitsu, trained by the master Nobu Matsuhisa, guides his guests through a range of unique and surprising flavours.

The palace is capitalising on the desire for unique experiences by creating themed environments following lifestyle trends that are sought after by its clientele. For clients who enjoy yoga or fitness, for example, in addition to the traditional gym area the hotel offers a yoga studio and a workout zone, both private with their own bathrooms, that guests can reserve at anytime. This allowed us to train in privacy while also enjoying the amenities of the hotel.

In addition to the wellness areas, the palace also offers many types of suites depending on the needs and requirements of each guest. The 325m2 Royal Penthouse on the 7th floor, for instance, offers a breathtaking view of the Rhone from its extensive 175m2 terrace and promises a most luxurious stay. The hotel is perfectly suited for a family visit or for the organisation of a wedding or event. ›

© Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid

MADRID, CHIC AT ITS BEST

When a luxurious stay in Madrid beckons, look no further than the iconic Mandarin Oriental Ritz. Upon arrival, the building is already a sight to behold. For over 110 years, this belle époque palace has hosted royalty, dignitaries, and some of the most distinguished guests from around the world. With its incomparable service, exceptional location and its range of restaurants that promise a unique gastronomic experience, we can say that the Mandarin Oriental Ritz, Madrid is set to become the city’s most luxurious hotel and our favourite stopover in Madrid. ›

CONCIERGE, S’IL-VOUS-PLAIT !

The top-of-the-line facilities within the hotel made our sojourn a luxury experience, enhanced above all by the way that we were served, considered, and pampered by the staff. During our visit, we realised how essential concierges are to the smooth running of one’s stay. The emergence of new technologies and the speed of access to information have made the role of the concierge less relevant in recent years.

However, in the luxury hotel industry, it is a major asset for the service to a demanding clientele. Guests continue to seek out their expertise, especially when it comes to distilling the abundance of available information or giving access to invaluable local tips. The fact that we consulted with various concierges allowed us to dine in the best places, and to enjoy activities suited to our personal interests, making our stay even more special. It’s definitely a must to upgrade a luxury experience in a palace. e

AWARD WINNING DESIGNS

2022 drew to a close with many satisfying achievements for S•CAB, the most recent of which is the ADA (Archiproducts Design Awards) for two of their new products launched in 2022. A distinguished panel of international judges delivered the award in the furniture category to DRESS_CODE by gumdesign and the sustainability award to HUG by Studio Meneghello Paolelli.

WWW.SCABDESIGN.COM

TRENDS DESIGN

This month we celebrate Viva Magenta, the official Pantone colour of the year, with some sumptuous Laskasas items featuring this gorgeous warm shade. Check out some other inspiring news from the décor scene.

DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN

WWW.LASKASAS.COM

HUG chairs, design Studio Meneghello Paolelli

JANUARY FURNITURE SHOW

The January Furniture Show returns in full force to the Birmingham NEC at the end of this month, welcoming more than 350 brands and expecting more than 15,000 visitors over a four-day period. As the only dedicated European furniture show taking place in the first quarter of the year –the key time for buyers to select new stock and suppliers – the January Furniture Show is the must-attend event for the industry.

WWW.JANUARYFURNITURESHOW.COM

10 YEARS OF BEOPLAY A9

Ten years ago, Bang & Olufsen and Øivind Alexander Slaatto designed the Beoplay A9 which became a timeless classic. A decade later, it remains one of the firm's most admired products. This not only indicates the iconic character of the Beoplay A9, but also the emotional durability of Bang & Olufsen products. To mark this occasion, a limited edition project was created to reinvent the A9s fabric cover with creative works of artists, starting with Alexis Jamet and Manon Cezaro.

WWW.BANG-OLUFSEN.COM

Rivello Sofa Rusty Orange

Atmosphere Embossing Canestrino from new exhibitor

BASE KITCHEN BY KETTAL

Sophisticated and robust for the outdoors, this modular kitchen structure from Kettal Studio offers infinite solutions. A solid aluminium supporting frame can be paired with a number of stoneware modules in any combination of personal preference. Maintaining its authentic linear design, the base kitchen features clean, smooth surfaces with no corners, for easy cleaning and maintenance. Along with basic kitchen functions, it has a gas barbecue and can include several burners with a support for a wok. Throw in a bar unit, and you have everything you'll possibly need for al-fresco entertaining.

WWW.KETTAL.COM

LOUIS VUITTON

Specially selected from the brand for this winter season campaign, we love these chunky LV boots in two different colours. Probably not a good idea to lie in the snow bare-legged though!

WWW.LOUISVUITTON.COM

INBOX MY FASHION

Stylish Après-Ski Collections, and sports collabs rocked my inbox this month as both high-end and high street brands continue to innovate and reinvent themsleves. Check out some of their latest campaigns.

DISCOVERED BY MADDIE QUINN

GUCCI X ADIDAS APRÈS-SKI

At the Gucci house you can now discover a selection of the latest cold-weather designs for snowy escapes, including a sneak peek at their amazing new collab with Adidas!

WWW.GUCCI.COM

EA7 WINTER TOUR

With this season, the EA7 Emporio Armani Winter Tour also returns with a brand new collection dedicated to the world of skiing. The exclusive roadshow combines style and performance through a series of skill improving activities that are engaging for mountain lovers.

WWW.ARMANI.COM

THE NORTH FACE

Introducing a collection dedicated to the serious business of ski touring, The North Face keeps pushing the limits of the cold side of the Earth. The new Down Turn line is windproof, waterproof, breathable, stretchy and warm with the least weight possible, tackling below zero weather on a scientific level. And when it comes to the harsh outdoors, who wouldn't want to wrap their kids in this snug comfort too?

WWW.THENORTHFACE.ES

DESIGUAL WINTER EDIT

This season, Desigual has created a winter wardrobe that is cosy and versatile, keeping you comfy and warm with a touch of cool fashion sense. Desigual is always a great brand for finding unique and bohemian pieces.

WWW.DESIGUAL.ES

MK TO THE SKI SLOPE

Another popular collab between Michael Kors and Ellesse resulted in sporty tones and racing stripes –signature trims that will add a seasoned skier vibe, even if you don't fully make it down the mountain.

WWW.MICHAELKORS.ES

ZARA

GOES

TECHNICAL

And now, Zara also jumped the line and devised a whole range of highly stylish technical garnments for snow lovers around the world. Using the latest technology, waterproof fabrics with heat-sealed zippers and the double-layer windproof and waterproof Recco-system are only a few of the exclusive features of this new collection.

WWW.ZARA.ES

As an antidote to casual lockdown dressing of T-shirts and sweats, designers have gone all out this season. There’s a carnival style explosion of colours, prints and tie-dyes, no colour is off limits. If you like purple, you’re in luck. All shades of purple popped up on the catwalks from palest lilac and lavender to electric magenta, beetroot and aubergine. Wear as a highlight colour or head to toe in different tones.

Matchy-matchy double denim makes a comeback and jeans have gone extra wide. Take your pick of virtually any denim wash from pale sun-bleached or acid wash to dark

MENSWEAR SPRING/SUMMER TRENDS

Karolina Kivimaki gives an insight into key trends for when the new collections land in the shops.

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

AHLUWALIA

SHIRT OPTIONAL

raw denim. The classic Breton stripe has been revamped and there are bold horizontal and superthin stripes in T-shirts and sweaters. Wear under a loose-fit summer jacket for an easy everyday look.

There’s some Galactical inspiration in the air with metallic tones from silver and gold to bronze, pewter and coloured metallics. While the brave might opt for a showstopper metallic suit, separates work well too.

Summer suits go shirtless and up the chest grooming game. Not ready to reveal your chest? Wear a waistcoat under a jacket or turn up the collar. ›

EMPORIO ARMANI

OFFICINE GÉNÉRALE GIVENCHY

DIOR

ARMANI

PURPLE RAIN

GIORGIO ARMANI

FENDI

DOLCE & GABBANA

BOTTER

BIANCA SAUNDERS

CRAZY FOR COLOUR

FENDI

LOEWE HERMÈS

ETRO

LOUIS VUITTON

GIORGIO ARMANI

GIORGIO ARMANI

LOEWE

ETRO

BIANCA SAUNDERS

EMPORIO ARMANI

OFFICINE

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

KORA ORGANICS

CELEBRATING THE PURITY OF BEAUTY

Clean beauty’ may be a buzzword in the beauty sector, but when Miranda Kerr founded KORA Organics in 2006, this concept was very much in its initial stages. Kerr, a top model who made her name in many of Victoria’s Secret’s fashion shows and campaigns, was intrigued by the idea of beauty products that achieved desired results without “filling (one’s) body with chemicals.”

Her brand began as a small enterprise aiming to fulfil the organic beauty niche. Today, it is present in over 25 countries, with products available from retail and online stores –including Sephora, Douglas, and Look Fantastic.

ORGANIC BEAUTY PROMOTES BETTER HEALTH

Kerr’s passion for clean, organic beauty began when she was 16 and her mother was diagnosed with cancer. “I started to take a closer look at what I was putting in and on my body. I was shocked to find how many products made it into our home that were deemed natural or safe but actually included toxic, potentially carcinogenic ingredients,” she told CEO Magazine. She relied on microbiologists, aromatherapists, and organic chemists to create the naturally scented, beneficial blends that would make her brand stand out.

KORA Organics’ range of products includes cleansers and toners, serums, moisturisers, eye care, oils, exfoliators, masks, body care, and supplements. You can also shop by skin concern, as there are targeted lines for problems like ageing, dryness, uneven texture, oily skin, large pores, and dark spots.

All products feature certified organic and ethically farmed ingredients and are contained in eco-friendly packaging. On her website, Miranda shares tips and tricks for reducing, reusing, and recycling items from her brand.

‘

video

E ! ONLINE IN OUR HYBRID DIGITAL EDITION

1 – NONI GLOW BODY OIL

Deliver lasting hydration to your skin and improve the look of your complexion with this combination of noni extract, rosehip, and sunflower seed oil.

2 – NONI GLOW FACE OIL

Certified organic noni extract, rosehip oil, and jojoba oil work to nourish, brighten, and smoothen a dull or dry complexion.

3– ACTIVE ALGAE LIGHTWEIGHT MOISTURISER

This refreshing gel/cream evens the skin tone and provides hydration without excess shine. It contains ingredients like green algae, alpine rose, and Swiss glacier water.

4 – NONI NIGHT AHA RESURFACING SERUM

5 – NONI BRIGHT VITAMIN C SERUM

An excellent skin-brightening solution that contains Vitamin C, antioxidant-rich superfruits, and hyaluronic acid. Together, these ingredients help you fight off environmental damage.

6 – CREAM CLEANSER

Any item by KORA Organics is a sure investment, here are some of the brand’s bestsellers. 3 6

143 | JANUARY 2023 | MARBELLA, SPAIN

TIPS FOR GETTING FIT WITH YOUR PET

If getting into shape is one of your New Year’s resolutions for 2023 and you have a pet, then you’re probably closer to achieving your goal than you realise. A study by researchers at Michigan State University has found that dog owners are 34 per cent more likely to get the required amount of exercise per week than those who don’t have a canine companion. This means that even if you take your dog out for a walk twice a day, you’re already doing yourself a world of good! If you want to take things to the next level, however, the following tips may inspire you. Remember to run these workout ideas by your veterinarian to make sure they are all appropriate for your pets.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

CLIMBING STAIRS

Climbing stairs is a highcalorie-burning aerobic exercise that provides more benefits in a shorter amount of time than running or walking – as reported by Run Society. One hour of stair climbing burns around 1,000 calories, with 0.17 calories expended for every step climbed. If your dog is healthy, fit, and energetic, they may enjoy performing this activity alongside you. Doing so will not only be fun for them but also boost their agility and cardiovascular fitness. Start small, going up and down a couple of floors with your pooch. Every week, try adding another floor, ensuring that your pet is able to breathe well and is happy to join you.

You may like to try stair climbing with a cat that is happy to walk on a leash. Attach the latter to a harness instead of a collar, since the latter can slip off your cat or

become entangled in fixtures and furniture. An off-leash kitty may also enjoy tearing up and down stairs with you. If you have an indoor cat, the stairwell should be an interior one.

CROSSFETCH

If you usually take your dog to a park where they can run off-leash, don’t let them do all the work! Take part in a few CrossFit exercises such as burpees, a 100-metre run, air squats, push-ups, and situps. If you are a faster runner than your pooch (it’s rare but possible) then compete with your furry BFF for the prize! Whatever you do, don’t remain stationary. Consider this time as a priceless opportunity to boost your cardiovascular fitness, strength, and resistance.

TENNIS WITH A UNIQUE OPPONENT

Most younger dogs go gaga over the chance to fetch a ball, so much so that numerous companies have designed automatic dog toy ball launchers. Pets that just ‘can’t get enough’ of this activity actually meet their limits! If you have access to a small or dog-friendly court, work on your serve or your aim by allowing your pooch onto the court. They will undoubtedly go crazy every time he sees a new ball flying into their side of the court.

SWIMMING

If you have a private pool, it’s time to get your pets as excited about swimming as you are. Introduce your cat or dog to the water and if they seem okay to enter into your pool with you, carry them while you are standing in it. Place your pet on a step and see how they react. If they jump out and never return, consider another sport! If, however, your cat or dog seems to enjoy the water, bring them gently into the shallow end of the pool while you are in the water and slowly let them go, observing if they begin to paddle towards you. If they seem to be struggling or uncomfortable, immediately put them back on solid ground. Use a cat/dog life jacket or buoyancy aid so they feel more secure in the water.

ROLLERBLADING

If you’re a king or queen on wheels, let your dog enjoy a bit of the magic of speed by taking them on your next rollerblading escapade. There is one big proviso with this one: you will first need to train your pooch to walk and run alongside you, without tugging on the leash. Otherwise, your dog may cause you to fall if they pull on the leash when they spot something that excites or interests them. To train them to walk by your side, use treats, praise, and plenty of love. e

SLEEP IS YOUR

SUPERPOWER

WORDS ISABEL MALYNICZ

Sleep is your source code. For many years we saw sleep as merely the absence of wakefulness, a necessary but inconvenient interlude in the pursuit of life. Now we know that a myriad of wondrous processes take place within our brains and bodies whilst we sleep, which prepares us to be our most vibrant selves.

And yet, many of us have experienced the crushing effects of poor sleep, either as an isolated event, or as an ongoing part of our lives. A recent study by Direct Line Insurance in the UK showed that more than 37 million (71 per cent ) of people across the UK do not get between seven to nine hours each night. And in Spain, 48 per cent of the Spanish adult population lack quality sleep.

BENEFITS OF SLEEP

Although scientists don’t completely concur on why we sleep, they agree on the many benefits sleep brings. These include: consolidation of memories and embedding learning, immune boosting, lowering our risk of serious health problems like diabetes and heart disease, reducing stress and improving mental wellbeing. If we could bottle these benefits, it would be the mother of all

health elixirs. But we don’t need to, because they are available to all of us, every night.

SLEEP MYTH BUSTING

There are many myths around sleep and I want to shine a light on the most common I come across in my sleep practice: The Sleepy Armadillo.

» MYTH 1 ADULTS NEED 8 HOURS SLEEP

Between seven to nine hours is considered a healthy range for adults. The issue with the eight hour myth is that it becomes a stick by which sleep-challenged people beat themselves when they don’t achieve it. The anxiety around sleep then becomes the main cause of their sleep problems.

» MYTH 2 LONGER IN BED = MORE SLEEP

If we are sleep challenged and we go to bed early to preemptively get more sleep, we are likely to be faced with hours of tossing and

turning and anxiety about not sleeping because we are biologically not ready to sleep.

» MYTH 3: IF WE REALLY

TRY, WE WILL FALL ASLEEP

Sleep is probably the only activity that is not rewarded by effort. The more you try the longer sleep will elude you.

» MYTH 4: “I AM A BAD SLEEPER, ALWAYS HAVE BEEN”

This is a core belief held by many of my clients. They are resigned to a life of poor sleep. We unpick this core belief and establish a healthy relationship with sleep.

» MYTH 5:

IT’S POSSIBLE TO FUNCTION ON 5 HOURS OF SLEEP OR LESS

It is possible to function, yes, but with five hours of sleep there is a very real cognitive and physical decline that will be impacting our judgement, emotional regulation, appetite, physical performance and even our ability to drive a car. ›

INTEGRATED SLEEP TIPS

Sleep is an integrated part of our lives, and not an isolated activity we do at the end of our waking day. As someone that works with clients with insomnia every day, here are my top six (waking) tips for a better night’s sleep.

»

SCHEDULE

Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends.  If going to bed at the same time is tricky, as a minimum get up within a 30 minute window each morning.

»

LIGHT

Get plenty of sunlight each day, and ideally within the first hour of rising. The sun resets our body clock and also provides us with Vitamin D, which is critical for good

sleep.

At night, reduce blue light exposure from electronics (phones etc.) a few hours before bed. This allows for the natural release of melatonin into your body, the hormone of sleepiness!

» MANAGE STRESS

Stress releases cortisol into our bodies which is an awake hormone. Try to manage stress throughout the day by practising breathwork or meditation.

»

SLEEP SANCTUARY

Set up your bedroom as a sleep sanctuary. This means keeping it cool (about 18 degrees celsius is ideal), cave-dark (ditch the LED clock), and as noise-free as possible. Try to avoid activities other than sleep and sex in your bedroom.

» NUTRITION

Eat your final meal at least 2.5 hours before you go to bed, avoid spicy, sugary or highly processed foods that may spike blood sugar. Maintain a healthy gut as it is responsible for about 90 per cent of your serotonin (mood stabiliser), which is an important precursor to our favourite sleepy hormone, melatonin.

»

STOP TRYING

As mentioned, sleep will not come as a result of your efforts. It is a passive process. Focus instead on resting in your sleep sanctuary.  Sleep well readers.

ISABEL MALYNICZ IS A CERTIFIED INTEGRATIVE SLEEP COACH FOR ADULTS AND FOUNDER OF THE SLEEPY ARMADILLO, WHOSE PURPOSE IT IS TO HELP ADULTS OVERCOME INSOMNIA AND REGAIN THEIR SLEEP SUPERPOWER. SHE WORKS INDIVIDUALLY, SLEEP COACHING CLIENTS ACROSS EUROPE, AS WELL AS SUPPORTING BUSINESSES INTERNATIONALLY TO IMPROVE SLEEP FOR THEIR EMPLOYEES.

WWW.SLEEPYARMADILLO.COM I @SLEEPY_ARMADILLO

ALWAYS ON TOP OF my health

WITH…

GP SERVICES, INTERNAL MEDICINE & CARDIOLOGY Value. Quality Care. Convenience.

At Reisbeck Medical we combine our expertise in different medical fields to offer a holistic view of each and every patient to enable highly personalised treatments.

• Family medicine • Internal medicine • Home visits • In-hospital care • Leg vein treatments • Nutrition consulting • Ultrasound & diagnostic tests • Laboratory analysis • Cardiology

Ramón Gómez de la Serna 22, 29602 Marbella, Spain

GERMAN INTERNATIONAL HEART & VASCULAR CENTRE Expert. Trusted. Minimally invasive.

At CardioCare Marbella we combine our expertise with state of the art equipment and minimally invasive techniques to achieve excellent diagnostic and therapeutic results for cardiac patients or those just looking for an extensive, personalized cardio-vascular check-up.

• Cardiovascular interventions: no cut, no wound, no scar!

• Coronary and peripheral artery stenting procedures

• Non-surgical heart valve repair (TAVI) • 3D cardiac ultrasound

• Advanced arrhythmia treatments (electrophysiology)

• Pacemakers, defibrillators and CRTs

• New enlarged prostate treatment (PAE)

T: (+34) 952 779 680 I M: (+34) 657 790 000 E: info@reisbeck-medical.com www.reisbeck-medical.com

Our urological department offers non-surgical treatments for men suffering from:

BPH - Bening Prostate Hyperplasia

If you have issues urinating you could have an enlarged prostate. Talk to our expert urologists for new treatments available.

ED - Erectile Dysfunction

Don’t suffer in silence. New minimally invasive treatments available.

CardioCare/UroCare, HC International Hospital, Calle Ventura del Mar 11, 29660 Marbella, Málaga, Spain

T: (+34) 677 759 003 | E: info@cardiocaremarbella.com www.cardiocaremarbella.com

Take a look at the superbly located new project, Clarity, gracing El limonar in Málaga. Find our why Nueva Alcántara Club Marbella, where sports and social interaction unite, is so popular. Keep abreast of local business news and top events.

We are familiar with luxurious modern developments in Marbella and other parts of the Costa del Sol, but as a rapidly rising star not only with international visitors but now also among homebuyers, Málaga is beginning to attract impressive new projects of its own. One of the most exclusive of these is Clarity, a stylish new urbanisation of 16 luxurious apartments in the city’s finest suburb, El Limonar.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF GILMAR

CLARITY MODERN LUXURY LIVING IN MÁLAGA

One of the leading property firms in the Madrid market and a longstanding presence on the Costa del Sol, Gilmar has over 40 years of experience in real estate brokerage and the commercialisation of new projects along the length of the Coast, as well as in other parts of Spain. The opening in 2020 of a Gilmar office in the heart of Málaga – close

to the cathedral – reflects the company’s belief in the growing importance of Málaga as a destination for both local, national and international homebuyers and investors.

Gilmar is a specialist in luxurious homes, and has participated in the launch and commercialisation of a great diversity of premium projects across the country, so Málaga’s latest new top development is a perfect fit for a company that has

already built up a strong reputation in and around Marbella. Clarity is the most recent in a series of newbuild projects in the provincial capital, but where most have consisted of city apartments and the restoration of classic buildings, this landmark development presented by Gilmar is a modern gated complex that brings the Marbella style of living to Málaga.

OF LIGHT AND VIEWS

This boutique urbanisation of just 16 apartments and penthouses is housed in two attractively styled buildings whose low-rise architecture blends in with the classic villas and palatial homes that have taken root in El Limonar and made this the most exclusive residential area of Málaga. Situated in a privileged leafy hillside setting less than ten minutes from the beaches of Playa de La Caleta and

the historic centre of town, El Limonar originally dates back to the late 19th century. Back then it was an almost country extension of the city surrounded by nature, but even today natural scenery is never far away.

From this position, Clarity enjoys a wonderful perspective, the large sunny terraces of the apartments and rooftop solariums of the penthouses overlooking the suburb and city down to the

sea. At night, the lights in the Bahía de Málaga blend with those dotted on the hillside to create a mesmerising spectacle. Day and night, life at Clarity is all about sunlight and views. In this peaceful, secure and exclusive setting you enjoy privacy and tranquillity yet are also close to the very heart of this vibrant Mediterranean city that seems to just keep getting better with every passing year.

ACTIVATING THE SENSES

Measuring over 200 square metres, the three and fourbedroom apartments bring the kind of architectural styling, open-plan interior, build qualities and amenities typical of the Marbella area to the region’s capital – blending in this way an ideal urban and resort way of life that is hard to better. The high-end specification of these boutique homes includes quality materials and top brands, as well as spacious indoor and outdoor

living areas that offer a variety of seating and dining zones, making the most of the rather spectacular views to be enjoyed here.

The gated community also enjoys Marbellastyle amenities such as manicured gardens, a panoramic infinity pool and sun deck, private parking and storage facilities, as well as a safe children’s play park and grown-up chill out zone in a lifestyle-orientated living space free of cars. A wonderful blend of modern comfort in a classically

elegant residential part of Málaga, Clarity also adds resort amenities to the chic urban appeal of one of Spain’s most beautiful and lively cities.

GILMAR MÁLAGA

C/CORTINA DEL MUELLE, 13, MÁLAGA. TEL: (+34) 657 552 271. PROMOCIONES.COSTA@ GILMAR.ES WWW.CLARITYMALAGA.COM

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

Atlas American School Opens in Estepona

The Mayor of Estepona, José María García Urbano, recently attended the inauguration of the Atlas American School – the first school on the Coast with an American curriculum. It will offer a complete education for children, ranging from early to high school. Also at the event were Antonio Arcones (the General Director of Mathema Educación – the group that owns the school) and Trevor Sargent (the Director of the School).

Illusion Presents Experience Centre

The new Illusion Experience Centre was recently launched in San Pedro de Alcántara. Illusion is a Marbella company founded in 2006 with a consolidated track record in the home automation, lighting, and audiovisual systems sectors. In the new centre, relationships with clients will be fostered via personalised encounters. During the launch, guests were able to experience innovative solutions such as curtains that open with a slight touch of the hand, designer lamps whose intensity and position can be controlled with subtle gestures, invisible speakers built into the walls, and mirrors that become television screens with a simple click.

Forum – A New Retail Experience in Marbella

Forum, located within walking distance from the Puente Romano Beach Resort and the Marbella Club Hotel, is set to open in early 2024. Antima, the team behind the project, says it will be a place for people to shop, eat, drink, connect and enjoy — an all-day, all-year destination, conceived by locals for locals. The aim is to create an urban meeting place with a curated selection of shops, restaurants and services. The Antima team is working on establishing an exciting tenant mix, including ‘local heroes’ and international brands, which will bring a new flavour to the area. Forum will also feature a Food Market with speciality stores, a rooftop restaurant, and a selection of retail shops.

WWW.ANTIMAGROUP.COM

Puerto Banús Works to Regenerate Marine Biodiversity

Puerto Banús is the first port in Andalucía to have installed an innovative system aimed at regenerating marine biodiversity. The technology was developed by the company Ocean Ecostructures, which is dedicated to enriching marine ecosystems. Their system comprises underwater ‘walls’ beneath the sea that contain calcium carbonate and develop into micro-reefs that boost biodiversity.

Costa del Sol Christie's International Real Estate Sponsors Forbes 11 Gala

The Marbella firm, Costa del Sol Christie's International Real Estate, was the main sponsor of the ‘Forbes 11 Gala POWERED BY Costa del Sol Christie's International Real Estate’, a charity event celebrating the 11th anniversary of Forbes Czech. Held at the beautiful St. Agnes Monastery in Prague, it raised almost €180.000 for various social organisations – including Auttalk, Eduzměna, Happy Hearts Fund, Leontinka Foundation, and Neuron. In other news, ZDS Developments recently partnered with Christie’s International Real Estate to become its exclusive real estate agent for luxury properties across the Coast.

WWW.COSTADELSOL365.ES

Stoa Gallery Presents the ‘Amazons’ Exhibition

If you are an art lover, you have until February 3 to visit Stoa Gallery in Estepona to view the exhibition, Amazons, curated by Conchi Álvarez and featuring art by Xevi Villaró. The works feature modern warriors who elegantly and silently expose an endangered environmental reality we should be more aware of. They reveal that anything and everything can be said and done ‘con arte’.

Bromley Estates Launches Acqua Gardens

Bromley Estates is pleased to present Acqua Gardens – a select community of low-rise apartments on the prestigious New Golden Mile. Bromley Estates was chosen by respected Madrid-based developer, Vía Célere, to act as the sole commercial agent on this project. The contemporary development of 95 residences comprises two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, penthouses and garden apartments, spaciously distributed over six buildings of just three floors. The development is gated and secure, and boasts spectacular views over the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains. Communal facilities include a free-form pool, fully equipped gym, and gourmet lounge. Launch prices will start at €273.700.

WWW.BROMLEYESTATESMARBELLA.COM

María Casado Wins Iris Prize for Best Presenter

Popular Spanish presenter, María Casado, recently won the Iris Prize for Best Presenter, granted by the Academy of Television and Audiovisual Sciences and Arts of Spain. The show Las Tres Puertas, directed and presented by Casado for RTVE in collaboration with Teatro Soho Televisión, was nominated for two awards: Best Programme and Best Presenter. Casado dedicated her prize to her team for helping her create a programme that highlighted the value of words and silence.

EIC Achieves Great Football Success

The English International College was delighted to welcome home its victorious under-11 football champions from the Mediterranean Football Cup, recently held in Verona, Italy. Playing against International Schools from Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and France, the under-11 EIC girls remained unbeaten over three days and 11 games, triumphing in the Final with a 1-0 score over H Rosa (Italy). The boys survived two penalty shoot-outs to win the Mediterranean Cup for the second time at the under-11 level. This is the only time in the Mediterranean Cup history that both winners in the Under 11 category have come from the same school.

New Director for Ecoembes

Rosa Trigo has been appointed as the new CEO of Ecoembes. She previously occupied the post of Director of Technique and Innovation at the company, after dedicating her career to residue management. She has a doctorate in Chemical Sciences and other impressive qualifications, which enable her to carry out her role with aplomb. She has worked at Ecoembes for 25 years, taking on various responsibilities.

Inmobiliaria Espacio

Presents Calma Village

Inmobiliaria Espacio, a leading company in the Real Estate and construction sector for over fifty years, is commercialising Espacio Calma Village – a new fourteen-home development in La Cala Golf, Mijas. This sustainable project features 14 twoand three-bedroom houses, starting at 215m2 in size. The house interiors are spacious and designed to make the most of the natural light and surrounding greenery. A set of construction roof pergolas with an original design lends a modern air to the whole project.

WWW.INMOESPACIO.COM

Málaga Hosts Linda España 2022

The popular female modelling competition, Linda España 2022, took place recently in Málaga. Participants stayed at the AC Hotel Málaga Palacio, competing in the final gala at the events hall. The event, which was organised by Nueva Moda Producciones and the AC Hotel Málaga Palacio, was presented by actor, Eduardo Banderas. It also featured fashion shows by top designers and a star-studded jury that included influencer and TV personality, Gianmarco Onestini. This year’s winner was Arina Chechetkina, from Málaga.

WWW.LINDAESPANA.ES

Archidom Studio and Buenaventura – Andalusian Design Reigns Supreme

Two Andalusian businesses have been shining brightly in their respective industries. Archidom Studio, a group dedicated to luxury architecture, design, construction and real estate development, recently presented Casa Nevada – a wintery, sophisticated development boasting panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Equally impressive is the new, limited-edition Christmas edition of Caviar Riofrío, which was styled by the Buenaventura design studio. Entitled Nazzarii, it is a collector’s piece that has been crafted with a traditional technique that hails back to the Nasrid kingdom. Accompanying this beautiful piece is a joy to the palate: 100 grams of a special edition of Caviar Riofrío.

WWW.ARCHIDOMSTUDIO.COM, WWW.CAVIARDERIOFRIO.COM

The Estepona City Council Joins Forces With Carmen Thyssen

The Estepona City Council has signed an agreement with renowned art collector, Carmen Thyssen. The Mirador del Carmen, which is currently being built on Avda. de España next to el Faro, will exhibit a selection of works hailing from the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza collection. The project will be managed by Lourdes Moreno, Artistic Director of the Carmen Thyssen Museum in Málaga.

United Nationalities of Marbella Summit 2022

Business owners, charity leaders, and local activists from the Coast gathered together for the seventh annual United Nationalities of Marbella Summit, organised by Nicole King. Attendees discussed a host of important topics affecting our area – including the importance of suicide prevention, environmental projects, and the need for more places for young people to spend their free time. Just a few of the many speakers who shared their thoughts included Bijan Arta (scientist and filmmaker), Marisa Moreno (Danish consul and lawyer), and Derek Langley (from the British Chamber of Commerce).

©Katarina The_Kat_Image_Com

NUEVA ALCÁNTARA

CLUB MARBELLA — WHERE SPORTS AND SOCIAL INTERACTION UNITE

The popularity of padel has skyrocketed over the past decade and Marbella is the ideal spot from which to enjoy it to the full. Guillermo del Grosso, Director of Operations and Events at Nueva Alcántara Club Marbella, tells me that the passion for racquet sports is far more than a Spanish phenomenon: “In Sweden,” he says, “there are 3,500 padel courts, and numbers

are rising across Europe as well. Padel is also booming in popularity in the Middle East. Last summer, a significant percentage of our clientele visited us from Qatar, Dubai, and Kuwait.” It is easy to see why so many people have taken a liking to padel. As Guillermo points out, “It’s a relatively easy sport that is very similar to other racquet sports. Moreover, the courts are smaller and can be placed in open or closed spaces.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NUEVA ALCÁNTARA CLUB

“Padel may be burgeoning in popularity across the world, but Spain is considered the top country in the global circuit and it has many of the world’s best monitors and trainers. Padel players from abroad rely on tour operators on a seasonal basis, as is the case with golf. The high season for groups runs from April to endMay and September to November. Some players hail from countries with low temperatures. In just a three-hour plane ride, they can play padel beneath the sun, in an open-air court.”

Padel is attracting serious business, with the owners of Paris Saint-Germain now owning Premier Padel. Nasser AlKhelaifi, the President of the football club, has started a new global circuit for the sport alongside the International Padel Federation. Meanwhile, the largest mall in Europe, Westfield Stratford City, has launched a pop-up padel court. Today, padel is played not only by racquet sport fanatics, but also by renowned celebrities like Lionel Messi, David Beckham, and Jürgen Klopp. ›

Nueva Alcántara Club has played a special role in the development of the sport in Spain. “It was the first padel club to organise a world circuit (Pro and Tour) in Marbella. It has hosted important international tournaments throughout its history, conducting a test run recently at Roland Garros.” It opened its doors in 2000 and underwent extensive renovations in 2022. Today, it is home to one ‘super-panoramic’ and 15 panoramic courts, which are similar to those used in

pro circuits. “We organise tournament stages and special tournaments for businesses or individual clients. Our coaches are exceptionally trained, experienced, and bilingual,” states Guillermo

The Club seeks to provide ‘next-level service’, the kind that has been the domain of luxury golfing resorts for many years. Guillermo elaborates, “Our staff includes a Concierge and Hostess, who form part of the reception team. Their work is aligned with the premium experience we provide at the

Club. The service we offer is similar to what you might expect at a luxury hotel.”

The venue is also home to Restaurante Makan, which can provide various culinary services for groups of players. It has an interior dining space measuring 200m2, and an alfresco terrace of 500m2 There is also a snack bar by the courts, where players can find energising, refreshing snacks and beverages when they are taking a break from a hectic day’s play.

The Club is all about being active and sporty, but it also helps players unwind and hone their fitness in additional ways. Its Oxígeno spa has a hyperbaric oxygen chamber – a unique piece of equipment that increases circulation and oxygenation, repairs blood vessels, and triggers collagen growth for healing. Those who wish to work out further will love the gym, which covers an extensive

2,000m2 and boasts interior and exterior zones containing high-end machines.

Lest we forget the children in the family, the Club has a padel school, where kids can hone their racquet technique. Parking is abundant, so you can simply arrive and step into your favourite court in a matter of minutes.

WWW.NUEVAALCANTARACLUB.COM

CHRISTMAS LUNCH & FASHION SHOW

Collective Calling and Maiti Nepal Marbella hosted a Christmas lunch at Boho Club to raise funds for children in need. Guests enjoyed a three-couse lunch with live music from Monica Silverstrand and Sam Woodrow International, as well as a fashion show featuring outfits from CC Tienda Solidario. The funds raised are going to help children who have been saved from human trafficking in Nepal and children who have been rescued from the streets of Tanzania.

VILLA PADIER NA CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Guests gathered at the Anantara Villa Padierna Hotel for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Invitees enjoyed drinks and canapés with live music from a pianist. The hotel’s General Manager, Jorge Manzur, delivered a short speech before the lights were switched on and what a spectacle it was, with the tall tree adorned with red baubles and giant red stars.

WWW.ANANTARA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

BLEVINS FRANK S OPENS NEW OFFICE IN MARBELLA

International financial consultation and tax planning company, Blevins Franks, invited clients and associates to the inauguration of their plush new office at the Oasis Centre on Marbella’s Golden Mile. Guests enjoyed drinks and canapés to the accompaniment of a trio of classical musicians and were able to see the impressive new office installations at first hand.

WWW.BLEVINSFRANKS.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Garden Apartment in Benahavís

We are pleased to present this newly refurbished garden apartment within Benahavís. This recent stunning transformation features specifications not seen before in Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club with quality brands throughout, including Villeroy & Boch and Miele. Los Olivos is a small gated community within Los Arqueros Golf & Country Club occupying a superior elevated position. This apartment offers magnificent views over the Los Arqueros golf course, surrounding mountains and Mediterranean Sea. Set amongst mature manicured gardens with La Zagaleta as a green backdrop.

Experience great Asian food at emblematic restaurant, Thai Gallery. Consider a healthier eating regime for 2023. Read about Cristóbal Muñoz, who received the Young Chef Award at the recent Michelin Gala, and review a comprehensive list of great cavas to enjoy.

DINING IN ECSTASY Thai Gallery

Lovers of Thai cuisine will meet their match at Marbella’s Thai Gallery. This revered fine dining venue offers the full panoply of Thai dishes, with sumptuous curries, spring rolls, soups, salads, satays, and rice options.

WORDS JAMES SINCLAIR  PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

IN THE HEART OF PLAZA VILLAGE

Located in a prime position overlooking the square at Hotel Puente Romano’s Plaza Village, the stylish restaurant contains a full length bar facing an array of symmetrically placed tables, with sofa seating along both sides. Narrow tubular spotlighting nicely illuminates the pristine white linen tablecloths and wooden-

backed upholstered chairs, conferring a cosy ambience. The front of the restaurant features foldable glass doors and a full length terrace facing the action of La Plaza.

Since relocating from Nueva Andalucía several years ago, Thai Gallery has gone from strength to strength under the very capable hands of its owner, Ping who is there every evening to ensure things

are running smoothly. Working together with the same Head Chef for more than 15 years, they have perfected a winning formula, which is evident from the restaurant’s popularity. Part of a triumvirate that includes Tai Pan and Sukhothai, Lincoln and Ping have been serving top Asian food in the most elegant locations in Marbella over the last three decades. ›

The menu includes helpful symbols for those who are monitoring their diet or may have allergies and the the friendly staff are on hand to answer any questions before ordering. You can accompany your meal with any one of a range of wines, or why not savour a Singha Thai beer?

SELECTIONS THAT HIT THE SPOT

Preparing ourselves for a veritable feast, our table of four began by sharing Mixed

Thai Starters, comprising Chicken and Prawn Satay, Beef Tamarind, Spicy Prawn Salad, and Thai Spring Rolls. These were all very well received, setting our palates up for a Thai extravaganza, continuing with a lovely Lobster Pomelo Salad. Consisting of grilled lobster pomelo with fried onion and garlic, roasted coconut, groundnut, chilli, lime and coconut milk, it was so good we are already looking forward to reordering it on a return visit. ›

Thai food really comes into its own with mouthwatering curries and the Red Curry Duck, with crispy duck, cherry tomatoes, pineapple, grapes, strawberries, and basil leaves in a red curry sauce, accompanied by Steamed Jasmine Rice with Coconut Milk, did not disappoint. The menu includes a full range of curries, stir fry options, and rice and noodle dishes so, whatever your penchant, you will be able to satisfy your desires.

Next up was a selection from the Chef’s Recommendations list – Chef’s King Prawns: succulent grilled king prawns with coconut rice, vegetables and choo-chee style curry

sauce, which we also accompanied with Pineapple Rice. The latter was visually impressive – half a large pineapple hollowed out and stuffed with stir-fried rice, egg, cashew nuts, onion and prawns.

We topped off a memorable meal with Deep Fried Banana and Mango Sticky Rice, all in agreement that Thai Gallery richly deserves its reputation as the best Thai in town! e

OPEN EVERY EVENING FROM 7PM UNTIL MIDNIGHT. TEL: (+34) 952 818 392.

RESERVATIONS

RECOMMENDED.

PLAZA VILLAGE, HOTEL PUENTE ROMANO, MARBELLA. THAIGALLERYMARBELLA.COM

Some years are simply magical for a restaurant, and 2022 was certainly a groundbreaker for Ambivium –the Valladolid restaurant which achieved two major recognitions at the recent Michelin gala, held at the Palacio de Congresos El Greco in Toledo. The first was a Green Star that prized its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant has taken many steps to reduce its carbon footprint by recycling, saving water, and relying on renewable energy. The second was the moment when its chef, Cristóbal Muñoz, won the Young Chef Award. Famed for finding the perfect balance between solid and liquid textures, he is creating a big buzz on the culinary scene owing to his ability to capture the essence of different flavours.

Muñoz, aged 32, was born in Almería, –the ‘land of contrasts’, which provided all the inspiration an imaginative boy could hope for. This is the province where a myriad of magnificent films were made –including Lawrence of Arabia and Cleopatra Monuments such as the Almería Cathedral and the Alcazaba, accompanied by the turquoise beauty of the Mediterranean, capture the legacy that different cultures have left behind.

The Chef creates honest, seasonal, zerokilomotre cuisine that is free of artifices; one in which wine plays a starring role. The restaurant was founded by Pedro Ruiz Aragoneses, the CEO of Alma Carraovejas. Ruiz sought to launch an outstanding gastronomic concept within his winery. He found his perfect match in Muñoz, whose

dynamic, methodic approach to gastronomy gave rise to dishes with a distinct personality and great respect for quality produce.

Muñoz is known in the industry for qualities such as his absolute passion for his craft, meticulous approach to the art of cooking, and profound culinary knowledge. Some of the masters who have helped him tap into his own wizardry are Dani García, Paco Pérez (of Michelin-starred restaurant, Terra), and Francis Paniego (of Restaurante Tondeluna).

He has won many other prestigious prizes – including the Le Cordon Bleu Haute Cuisine Promises Award and the Chef of the Year Competition (Concurso Cocinero del Año). The latter is one of the most competitive in Spain, with a renowned jury comprising top chefs and critics selecting the winner from among eight finalists. Muñoz and his colleague, William Saavedra, had five hours to present their proposal and they made the most of every second. ›

The jury was particularly impressed by “the simplicity with which the dishes were created and the exquisite level of the sweet components of the menu.” The award may seem to have arisen from ‘out of the blue’, but for the Chef, it was an achievement that propelled his team “to continue on the path we began forging five years ago.”

At Ambivium, Munoz’s cuisine is married to a passion for wine, as is evident in the new degustation menu. Entitled Cellarium, it takes diners through the roots of traditional Castillan gastronomy. There are two additional options that embrace fine Spanish wines. The first is the Menú Cellarium + Armonía Alma, which features a selection of exquisite wines – including Pago de Carraovejas, Ossian, Milsetentayseis, Viña Meín Emilio Rojo, SV Wines, and Marañones. The second is the Menú Cellarium + Armonía Nacional e Internacional, with 18 to 22 unique

pairings. The restaurant has a wine list containing approximately 4,000 bottles from five continents. Both old and new world wines are available, as well as rare bottles and limited editions.

Ambivium’s dishes pay homage to local produce – including meat, fish, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Many ingredients are obtained from the restaurant’s ecological garden, where the staff also grow aromatic herbs. Others are purchased from suppliers from the region of Peñafiel.

If you are planning an escape to Valladolid soon, make a point to stop in Peñafiel and sample the outstanding food and wine that Cristóbal Muñoz and Pedro Ruiz Aragoneses have dreamed up. Tradition, simplicity, and fine wine make for a combination that is hard to rival.

Tips to Follow for Healthier Eating IN THE NEW YEAR

Eating healthily and getting into shape are two of the most popular New Year’s resolutions, as reported by The Healthy. The findings make sense considering the fact that the festive season is one in which excesses abound. The start of the year is also an excellent reason to ‘recreate’ who you are, both physically and mentally. Research indicates that a large percentage of resolutions are broken soon after a new year starts. How can you make healthy eating a realistic, achievable aim that is part of a long-term strategy?

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

1 - PRIORITISE HEALTH, NOT WEIGHT LOSS

Most diets don’t work in the long-term. New weight loss research indicates, for instance, that 95 per cent of dieters end up regaining the kilos they lose within two years. Strict calorie or carbohydrate restrictions may seem ‘doable’ in the shortterm, but they can be tough to maintain in the long run. Academics at the Ohio State University report that calorie restriction can slow your metabolism down, increase the levels of the hunger hormone, ghrelin, and decrease your sense of satiety (feeling full). Some people also have genetic risk factors that prompt them to

respond to food restriction with binge-eating. This habit can negatively impact your sense of self-control and lead to weight gain. By following a sound, realistic eating plan, you can avoid the negative effects of fad diets and boost your motivation.

2 - CONSIDER SEEING A DIETITIAN

One of the most interesting facts you may discover when visiting a dietitian is that you may have health issues that are interfering with your health goals. For instance, thyroid issues, kidney problems, and polycystic ovary syndrome can all lead to weight gain. A dietitian is also trained to spot unexpected obstacles (such as

stress, anxiety, and depression) which may cause patients to find solace in comfort foods. By treating the source of your issues, you can start on the road to a healthier body and mind and feel more inspired to embrace a healthy eating plan.

3 - THINK ABOUT PLANT-BASED FOODS

Numerous studies have shown that eating more plant-based foods promotes better heart health, helps keep issues such as Type II diabetes at bay, and improves your gut microbiome. Having a healthy gut with a myriad of beneficial bacteria is key to both physical and mental health and wellness. Plant-based foods also have a far smaller

carbon footprint than meat, so by going vegetarian or vegan, you will also be doing your share for the environment.

4 - DISCOVER THE POWER OF MODERATION

Nearly all foods, except those that are highly processed and those containing high levels of sugar, salt, or unhealthy trans fats, can be part of a healthy meal plan. Keep your food intake flexible, but in general, consider planning meals comprising 45 per cent fibre-rich carbohydrates, 30 per cent healthy fats, and 25 per cent lean proteins like fish, tofu, egg whites, or beans (as suggested by renowned dietitians Alexandra Rosenstock and Lauren C. Kelly). Protein and fibre help you feel full

and aid in building muscle. Healthy fats reduce your risk of heart disease. Specialists also recommend replacing refined ingredients and white bread and rice with fibre-rich brown rice, whole wheat pasta, quinoa, and barley. When it comes to vegetables, choose non-starchy options like cauliflower, broccoli, and green beans instead of starchy ones like potatoes.

5 - KEEP YOUR MENTAL HEALTH IN MIND

A positive body image is not necessarily something you are born with. The expectations of others and unrealistic images presented in the media can lead you to feel unsatisfied with your body image. Think of the things you love about your body instead of those you hate.

Dietitians have pointed out time and time again that fitness is more important to longevity than weight. Some weight goals may be unrealistic or unsustainable. Make sure you are undertaking at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity or an equivalent combination each week – as recommended by the World Health Organisation. If your current diet is making you unhappy or tired, or you avoid going to the gym because you feel others will judge you, consider speaking to a mental health professional. Avoid comparing yourself to others and learn to love all your ‘perfect imperfections’ while also focusing on boosting your heart and cardiovascular health. e

Although the producers of Champagne and cava have been doing their best to persuade us that theirs is not a drink to be consumed only when celebrating, they still have a long way to go. Be that as it may, when we lift our glasses this Yuletide, perhaps we should give more than a passing thought to what we are drinking. Casting our eyes northwards, we can appreciate that the Champagne area of northern France is a long way from cava’s Penedés home in Cataluña, and while Champagne’s existence is in jeopardy due to climate change, cava appears to be in a better situation. Nevertheless, this has not stopped many bodegas from making long-term plans by planting new vines on north-facing slopes or even moving entire vineyards.

WORDS ANDREW J LINN

Looking back, it is patent that the clever Catalans are good at planning, and by the 18th century they had already finessed the cava production process, using special bottles and corks. They also staked their claim to the name, and officially cava can only be made these days in a delimited region of Cataluña, Extremadura, and La Rioja. These last two may seem out of place, but were in fact designated by serendipity, since when the latest cava regulations were introduced, a concession was made to areas that had always produced cava, regardless of their distance from Cataluña’s Sant Sadurní d’Anoia.

Statistically we each drink about 15 litres a year, which is

quite a lot of bubbly, so there is no doubt that we are very fond of anything that sparkles. Fizz also comes at bargain basement prices, although the purpose of this piece is to highlight some truly excellent cavas that are not to be found on supermarket shelves. Cava grapes tend to be expensive varieties, like Macabeo, Xarel. lo, Parellada, Monastrell, Garnacha, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, and French Champagne and Spanish cava are alone in being produced by the traditional method of obtaining the sparkle naturally via a second fermentation in the bottle, unlike cheap bubblies that use steel tanks.

The real difference between Champagne and cava is the way it is made. Both are produced using

the methode traditionale, involving fermentation in the bottle. There is no point arguing about whether Champagne is better than cava because they are two different wines. Nevertheless, the saying that a good cava is better than a bad Champagne is invariably a truism.

With the grape harvest getting earlier each year due to climate change, cava makers are increasingly concentrating on single vintages rather than the traditional blends. Since the quality of the wine is determined by its bottle age, crianza wines are becoming more popular. Prices are still very acceptable, and an accurate rule of thumb is that any cava costing more than 15 euros will seldom disappoint. ›

Another tendency is converting to organic, and all cava will be organically made in a few years’ time. While many regulatory bodies oversee production rules, almost no other region stipulates how the grapes should be farmed, but in Penedés all Cava de Guarda Superior will be 100 per cent organic by 2025. Already way ahead is Alta

POPULAR BRANDS AT POPULAR PRICES

Recaredo, Gramona, Agustí Torelló Mata, Ferret, Juvé y Camps, Freixenet, Codorniu, Torelló, Raventós i Blanc y los Gran Claustro de Perelada, Llopart.

THE BETTER STUFF

» Agusti Torelló Mata

» Mascaró Nigrum

» Roger Goulart

» Marqués de Gelida

» Duran

THE VERY BEST

» Llopart Leopardi €18-22

» Gran Torelló €21

» Torelló GR €17

» Recaredo Subtil €22

» Recaredo Terrers €18

» Can Rafols dels Caus Parisad €22-29

» Colet Assemblage €22

» Colet Navazos €22

» Mont Ferrant Agustí Vilaret €20

Alella, a bodega whose Gran Reserva has coincidentally and justifiably been awarded the Guía Peñin’s Best Cava Award for the second year running.

All outlets at this time of year offer quite acceptable popular brands, but to delve into the world of unblended, single vineyard wines, check out the following.

» Castell Sant Antoni GR €20

» Suriol Castell de Grabuac Barrica BN €21

» Julia Bernet Exsum Or €14

» Maria Casanovas GR €18

» Rexach Baqués GR €10

» Cava Barranco Oscuro €16

» Marqués de Gelida Claror €24

» Rimarts GR 40 €14

» Rimarts Uvae €31

» Maria Rigol Ordi GR €14,5

» Guillen Carol Reserva Familiar Millenium €22

» Guillen Carol GR Barrica €16

» Titiana Vintage €16

» AT Roca Brut Reserva €11

» Rovellats Masia Segle XV GR €25

» 10 d´Abril GR €10

» 1+1=3 Especial GR €23,50

» 1+1=3 Xarello €12

» Berdié Gran Rupestre €15

» Gramona III Lustros €22

» Sumarroca Nuria Claverol Homenatge €34

» Sabaté i Coca Reserva Familia €28

» Castell d’Age Olivia €12

» Alta Alella Privat Laietá €18

» Alta Alella Privat Opus Evolutium €23

» Roger Goulart Gran Cuvée €18

» Ferret GR Ezequiel €21

» Mascaró Nigrum €9

» Mascaró Pure €11

» Marqués de Gelida Gran Selecció €19

» Duran 5V GR €24

» Muscándia GR €14

» Estel d’Argent €10

» Finca Valldosera Subirat Parent €20

» Torelló Mata GR Barrica €18

» Raventós i Blanc de la Finca €18

» Oriol Rossell GR €15

» Lacrima Baccus Summum €13

» Clos Lentiscus Sumoll €15

» Mas Pujado GR €14

» Naveran Perles Blanques €12

» Adernats XC €30

» Huguet GR €12

» Pere Ventura la Pubilla €29

» Mestres Clos Nostre Senyor €24

LA VERANDA RESTAURANT

For the ultimate dining experience, indulge in the elegance and old-warm charm of La Veranda, which is going ‘back to its roots’ by serving its most iconic dishes and guests’ all-time favourites 20 years ago.

Information and reservations:

E: laveranda.villapadierna@anantara-hotels.com T: +34 952 889 150

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