Essential Magazine, November 2024

INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED, AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE PORTRAYING MARBELLA’S BEST

Since May 1999

300 EDITIONS

During the past 25 years, essential magazine has emerged as the foremost lifestyle publication in Southern Spain, distinguished by its vibrant design and captivating editorial content. With a blend of relevant articles, dynamic features, and insightful social commentary, it stands as the ultimate insider’s guide to life and style in Marbella and its surrounds. essential also stays attuned to global trends and is followed by a significant digital audience.

300 EDITIONS

cBatumi

38 Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort

46 The Significance of 300

56 DM Properties Market Report

64 Marbella Traffic Congestion

70 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish

76 Pedro Pascal

GO TO TRENDS 86 What’s Cool

Pedro Peña

Hot New Films

Cool New Series 112 New Book Releases 116 EvodiaBio

» GO TO LIFESTYLE

124 La Querola d’Ordino

134 Scalpers & North Sails Collab for America’s Cup 2024

142 Nail Trends for Autumn

146 Boost Your Immunity in the Autumn Season

148 The Pet Custody Battle

» GO TO ENTERPRISE

152 Amaranta Living Casares Golf

158 Op de Beeck & Worth – Insurance Specialists

161 Simed Property Exhibition Málaga

164 Business News

178 The Vibe

» GO TO GOURMET

188 Five Star Dining West of Marbella

200 Floriano Pellegrino & Isabella Potì of BROS’

206 Gourmet Bytes

210 The World’s Best Wines?

The world's leading real estate brand with the best local expertise

Nueva Andalucía · Frontline Golf: Exceptional villa with a remarkable architecture and ultra-modern amenities perched above manicured fairways. Impeccable living spaces pair with beautifully crafted bedrooms and bespoke amenities: a fully equipped gym, cinema room, and bodega. Enchanting pool area and stylish outdoor spaces, whilst the upper terrace captures splendid views. 7 beds, 6 baths, built approx. 840 m2, plot approx. 1,500 m2. Price €5,995,000, E&V ID W-02VYSB

Paraíso Alto: Beautifully designed modern villa in a gated community boasting impressive panoramic views. 4 beds, 5 baths, built approx. 591 m2 , plot approx. 822 m2 . Price €2,950,000, E&V ID W-02W2AS

Los Monteros: Exquisite classic style villa boasting unparalleled sea views right on the prestigious Santa Clara Golf. 6 beds, 6 baths, built area approx. 838 m², plot approx. 1,518 m². Price: €4,200,000, E&V ID W-02XDNJ

La Alquería: Contemporary villa with spectacular sea views in an exclusive gated community. 5 beds, 6 baths, built area approx. 734 m², plot approx. 1,278 m². Price: €3,850,000, E&V ID W-02X90S

Sierra Blanca: Exquisite classical villa with stunning panoramic views in a privileged position within the gated community. 8 beds, 8 baths, built area approx. 1,111 m², plot approx. 2,000 m². Price: €5,900,000, E&V ID W-02X3O0

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

Nagüeles · Golden Mile: Villa Azzure is a truly elegant villa integrating sophisticated interiors, spectacular architecture and graceful entertaining spaces. Showcasing ample reception areas, state-of-the-art automation, and beautifully appointed bedrooms. Encompassing wellness facilities and recreational spaces such as a gym and games room, all surrounded by manicured grounds and a pool area. 4 beds, 6 baths, built area approx. 703 m², plot approx. 1,160 m². Price €3,500,000, E&V ID W-02U90J

Golden Mile: Extraordinary villa, 10-min walk to the beach, boasting a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and boho-chic design . 5 beds, 6 baths, built area approx. 871 m2, plot approx. 1,251 m2. Price: €5,870,000, E&V ID: W-02WAMO

El Rosario: Sophisticated villa built with the highest qualities offering fantastic panoramic views. 6 beds, 8 baths, built area approx. 779 m², plot approx. 1,364 m². Price €4,250,000, E&V ID W-02WH1Q

La Zagaleta: Luxurious villa with unrivalled sea views set in an extensive plot in one of Europe's most exclusive country clubs. 8 beds, 8 baths, built area approx. 1,232 m², plot approx. 9,111 m². Price: €9,900,000, E&V ID W-02UO5T

El Madroñal: A truly magnificent villa that combines historic heritage with the ultimate in comfort. 6 beds, 6 baths, built area approx. 1,015 m2 , plot approx. 3,238 m2 . Price: €6,650,000, E&V ID: W-02X67R

HOMES THAT DEFINE A LIFESTYLE

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publisher

IAIN BLACKWELL PUBLISHER

300 EDITIONS! REACHING THE MILESTONE OF

Since its launch in 1999 and over the last 25 years, essential has established itself as the leading lifestyle magazine on the Coast, its carefully curated content and design aesthetics having struck a chord with readers and viewers of the digital editions, who have formed a loyal fan base. We give thanks to them and to all who have been involved with essential since its inception. In this issue, join us on a trip to Batumi, the Pearl of the Black Sea, and relax in the luxurious surroundings of the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort.

Marvel at the iconic styling of the allnew Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, check out cool men’s wear from Scalpers and North Sails, and prepare to be impressed by the

architectural styling of La Querola dÓrdino.

Meet Pedro Pascal, who stars in Gladiator II on release this month, and Pedro Peña, Marbella’s leading interior designer.

Catch up on local property trends courtesy of DM Properties Market Report, and take a look at prestigious Amaranta Living Casares Golf.

For Five Star Dining on the west side of Marbella, we recommend a triumvirate of top hotels, whose restaurants are open to the public.

See you next month with a bumper Christmas special!

» GO TO CONTENTS

“PERFECTION IS NOT ATTAINABLE, BUT IF WE CHASE PERFECTION WE CAN CATCH EXCELLENCE” Vince Lombardi

STAFF

PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR

IAIN BLACKWELL director@essentialmagazine.com

DIGITAL & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ANDREA BLACKWELL andrea@essentialmagazine.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MARISA CUTILLAS editorial@essentialmagazine.com

DESIGN & LAYOUT

INMA AURIOLES, ANDREA BLACKWELL design@essentialmagazine.com

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION

MÓNIKA BÖJTI essential@essentialmagazine.com

ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE

MARIANO JEVA cuentas@essentialmagazine.com

WRITERS Iain Blackwell, Michel Cruz, Alicia Duggan, Sam Hexter, Sebastián Lozano, Maddie Quinn (A. Blackwell), James Sinclair

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Kevin Horn, www.photographermarbella.com PUBLIC RELATIONS Adriana Villa COLLABORATORS Jackie Stone

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING OFFICES Complejo La Póveda, Blq. 3, 1ºA, CN 340, km 178, 29600 Marbella, Málaga. Tel: (+34) 952 766 344 / 650 435 699. info@essentialmagazine.com. PRINTING Monterreina Comunicacion DEPÓSITO LEGAL D.L.MA-512-99

CONDITIONS The publishers make every effort to ensure that the magazine’s contents are correct, but cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information published herein, or be held accountable for any errors, omissions, or claims for damages. Marbella Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the claims, goods or services of advertisers, or for the copyright of materials used by them. © Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L. for Marbella Magazine. No part of this magazine, including texts, photographs, illustrations, maps or any other graphics may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of Publicaciones Independientes Costa del Sol S.L.

Printed on recyclable paper, produced without wood and bleached without chlorine.

Come on a visit to Batumi, the Pearl of the Black Sea. Check in to the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, and check out the sleek lines of the new Aston Martin V12 Vanquish. Meet Pedro Pascal, the star of Gladiator II, in cinemas later this month.

BACK TO CONTENTS

sspotlight

24 Batumi

38 Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort

46 The Significance of 300

56 DM Properties Market Report

64 Marbella Traffic Congestion

70 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish

76 Pedro Pascal

BATUMI

MARBELLA’S SISTER CITY ON THE BLACK SEA

From one of the classic resorts of Czarist Russia to the summer destination of choice for the Soviet elite, Batumi has come a long way. A coastal city that began to redefine itself when Georgia regained its independence, the Pearl of the Black Sea has since become an impressively vibrant modern resort town in a country of ancient traditions. WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.VISITBATUMI.COM

Batumi – where more and more people come to enjoy themselves

When we speak of Georgia here, we mean the country in the Caucasus Mountains, not the state in south-eastern USA, just to be clear. In fact, when we speak of that Georgia, we’re also talking about one of the oldest countries in the world, a nation

of ancient traditions with roots all the way back to the cradle of civilisation. Not surprisingly, many of the things we know so well and sometimes associate with other countries, including Spain, actually trace their origins to the region within modern-day and ancient Georgia. These include wine, for one, while Georgia also has one of the world’s oldest legacies when it comes to cheesemaking, metalwork, pottery, jewellery,

leatherware, and shoemaking, not to mention the fearsome swordsmanship of the Caucasus region. This land that is so rich and green features staggeringly tall and beautiful mountain ranges, cascading rivers, grand lakes and forests, as well as a subtropical coast. Georgia is a land of timeless traditions, and in its coastal gem of Batumi they come face to face with the 21st century taking shape before your eyes. ›

is one of the winter pursuits you can enjoy in Georgia

EUROPE’S LAST UNDISCOVERED PARADISE

Yes, there is much to discover and experience in this as yet largely unexplored nation on the edge of Europe. Georgia is European in culture, but with an exotic admixture of Russia, the Soviet Union, and the Middle East. One of the oldest Christian nations in the world is also a meeting point of cultures that shows in its cuisine, architecture, music, folklore, faces, and mentality. It is the precise mix of these diverse elements that makes the country distinct and uniquely fascinating. That and its stupendously beautiful landscapes. And then there is Batumi, a place that has not only put itself on the map as an increasingly exciting destination, but is also drawing more and more attention to Georgia itself, and the many pleasures hidden within its hinterland. In less than a decade, this seaside city has transformed itself from an ageing Soviet backwater with distant

memories of faded glory to one of Europe’s most exciting new resort cities. To answer the question ‘why?’, one need only take a look at pictures of this emerging powerhouse. Where once there were crumbling concrete Soviet towers there now stands a growing collection of modern hotels, apartment buildings, and office blocks whose sheer architectural exuberance cannot fail to impress. ›

Skiing

Breathtaking vistas in the lush forests around Batumi

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The ambition of a city in transformation

Batumi is a place that is evolving, growing, and exploring new possibilities, just as those who visit it open the door to new experiences at the meeting point of two continents, two worlds. You don’t have to travel as far as Thailand or Bali to discover new territory. In fact, it is far fresher an experience than the well-travelled paths that lead to those two classics, yet while being excitingly new, Batumi is already a classic in the making. The city twinned with Marbella is every bit as ambitious as its Spanish

counterpart, and no longer depends upon just regional tourists to fuel its boom.

Batumi is a new Marbella or Miami in the making, but in its own way. It has beaches bordering the balmy waters of the Black Sea; tall five-star resort hotels and luxurious penthouses looking far out over that sea and the lush subtropical coastline that it extends along; lively casinos, a vibrant café and nightlife scene, and of course the introduction to Georgian cuisine, with its unique but delicious specialities such as

Khachapuri, a combination of pastry, cheese, eggs, and spices that will have pizza lovers in ecstasy. Add to this, wonderful soups, stews, vegetarian dishes, and heavenly dumplings filled with savoury meat and sauce. Georgian cuisine is the coming together of cultures, made to be enjoyed in the homeland of winemaking. Not surprisingly, Georgians will claim that their Chacha (a clear spirit not for the fainthearted) is the mother of all brandies.

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TAKE YOUR PICK

Batumi also has its share of bars and nightclubs and an elegant turn-ofthe-century district full of parks, avenues, and

pretty buildings. You will find attractions such as a cable car that takes you from the shoreside over the city to a local mountain from which the views are immense, reaching up to the cliffside botanical gardens that are among the most beautiful you will find anywhere in the world,

or you may just prefer to enter the real old town and rub shoulders with locals in fresh produce markets, at charmingly European/ Middle Eastern cafés, and wander down busy streets where middle aged men still play backgammon most days. ›

A fast-growing modern resort city where urban dynamism meets seaside chill

Take a trip further inland and you will marvel at the vast mountain ranges of protected forest where you can rent an authentic cabin and spend your time hiking into the hills, and, at the right time of year (typically December to April), there are the thrilling ski resorts to enjoy. Batumi is set on the healing waters of the Black Sea, famous for both health and leisure escapes. Amid the various water parks and water sports facilities, its

shoreline is dotted with cafés, restaurants, and secluded summer bungalows.

Batumi is a place that offers so much: you just have to choose the part of the menu that is for you, be it the casino, nightlife, beaches, dining, culture or heading into those alluring green mountains inland – or even the ski resorts beyond them. From here it’s all in your hands, a whole new country waiting to be explored. ›

Batumi’s sea port

Sailing around Batumi’s lush subtropical coastline

‘Man and Woman’ an 8-metre tall symbol to the unity of both halves of mankind

A view from the Batumi botanical gardens

The charm of Middle Europe in one of Batumi’s cosy squares

THE 2024 GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL TOURISM FILM FESTIVAL

This event, which forms part of an international network of festivals that highlight storytelling as an increasingly prominent way of promoting tourist destinations around the world, was the second edition held in Georgia.

The inaugural festival, the first of its kind in the country, was hosted in October 2023 by Tskaltubo. Formerly renowned throughout the Soviet Union for its curative waters, this spa resort near the city of Kutaisi is now undergoing a revival, and the festival underlined its potential.

The second edition was held this October in vibrant Batumi, organised with the support of the local authorities and the central government, keen as they are to develop sustainable tourism that is also sensitive to local culture and communities.

This coastal city is helping to put Georgia on the map

TOURISM PROMOTION THROUGH STORYTELLING

Promoting Georgia and its diverse regions and attractions in this way was therefore the central theme to the storytelling that takes the form of promotional videos, interactive footage, and even short films that highlight a destination’s character and appeal, not in the conventional advertising/ marketing manner, but through a more personal sense of immersion.

The result is a format that feels more like a short documentary, less polished and ‘salesy’, and designed to make you feel like you’re there. Festivals of this kind are effectively the Oscars of this fast-emerging sector that is beginning to dominate tourism

promotion. Andalucía is one location that has it down to a fine art, but the format is beginning to sprout new creative talent around the world, and stimulating it is another objective of the event that drew hundreds of industry specialists, press, tourism officials, and local politicians to the two-day festival in Batumi.

BATUMI GITFF 2024

The Georgia International Tourism Film Festival is hosted in different cities each year, and this year was held within the elegant setting of the Adjara Art Museum, with the full support of the Ministry of Culture, Education, and Sport of the region of Adjara, of which Batumi is the capital. The event drew local and international

media coverage, and winners were announced in a variety of categories, including short films, vlogs, promotional and corporate videos, and innovative digital productions, marking a new era in showcasing and communicating the pleasures and experiences that both novel and established destinations have to offer.

Tourism promotion has entered a new era, and events such as this showcase the best of an industry in full expansion carrying the task of promoting travel that helps to develop local economies in a culturally and environmentally sustainable manner.

WWW.GITFFGE.COM

WWW.GLOBALARTELAB.COM

THE ANANTARA VILAMOURA ALGARVE RESORT

The Algarve is one of Europe’s most coveted spots to visit. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, diverse landscapes ranging from beaches to mountains, and charming historic towns and villages, it is a mecca for discerning tourists. The area is home to championship-level golf courses and a host of accommodations, one of the most celebrated of which is the Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort, located on the vibrant South Coast.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ANANTARA

A STUNNING LOCATION

The area surrounding Vilamoura is known as ‘the Monaco of Portugal’. Roman ruins lend it an imperial vibe and Mediterranean life flourishes in wineries, olive groves, and luminous fleur de sel fields. It boasts a bevy of luxury yachts, prestigious golf clubs, designer-brand boutiques, upscale casinos, restaurants, cafés, and bars. The resort stands proudly, just minutes from a marina and long stretches of beach where the Mediterranean laps gently on soft sands.

TWO DISTINCT SPACES

Guests at the Anantara Vilamoura can choose to stay at one of two distinct areas – the family zone (with numerous amenities to entertain adults and children) and the adult zone (for extra privacy and comfort). The resort also houses a remarkable collection of sculptures, artwork, paintings, and installations by Portuguese artists, creating a spectacular contemporary gallery setting for all types of events – from VIP dinners and weddings

to product launches and large-scale conferences.

THE FAMILY AREA

The Family area offers a host of services to entertain kids and allow their parents to unwind. The Adventurers Kid’s Club provides complimentary all-day entertainment and experiences. Kids from four to 10 years old enjoy safe, supervised lunches and dinners, while babies have a special menu and a baby concierge who can supply everything from formula to highchairs, strollers, and more. Parents and children have the choice of two outdoor pools, and infants can safely play in a swimming pool designed just for them.

Families can choose from 150 accommodations in different layouts and sizes, from the Deluxe Family Room to the Victoria Suite (with separate living and dining areas, butler service, and two walk-in wardrobes). Some rooms have pool views (which is handy for families with older kids) and one of the top choices has to be the TwoBedroom Family Swim-Up Room, in which guests can

step directly from their sunsoaked terrace into a swimming pool. The rooms are fitted with private balconies with sofa beds, cotton dressing gowns and slippers, and exclusive local bathroom amenities. The smallest accommodations fit three adults (or two adults and one child) and the largest can cater to six adults (or four adults and one child).

FAMILY RESTAURANTS

There is an impressive range of dining options where parents

and kids can feel at home, at any time of the day. These include The Victoria (featuring an international buffet, cooking stations, and regional delicacies for breakfast and dinner), La Cucina (a journey through authentic Italian cuisine that opens for dinner), the Anantara Lounge & Bar (for light snacks and dinner from 10:30am to midnight), and the Cascades Pool Bar (serving cocktails, sandwiches, pancakes, and more, from 10am to 6pm). Guests can also opt for room

service and enjoy interactive cooking classes where they can learn to prepare traditional Algarve dishes, such as Cataplana and Chocolate or Almond-Stuffed Dried Figs.

THE ADULT AREA

This area also has a special check-in counter for optimal convenience. It is home to numerous facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis court, and the Anantara Spa, where guests can feel renewed with Mediterranean

therapies, holistic Ayurvedic rituals and exotic Asian treatments.

The adult area has 110 spacious rooms and suites spread across three storeys. All rooms have a private terrace with views over the garden, pool, or golf course. There are six room types ranging from the Deluxe Room (for up to three adults) to the Presidential Golf View Suite (for two adults). The Palms Suite, meanwhile, is for four adults. Accommodations have features like bathrooms with rain showers and bathtubs, as well as private balconies with sofa beds. ›

RESTAURANTS IN THE ADULT AREA

Ria is an ideal restaurant for lovers of fresh seafood obtained from the Algarve Coast and the Ria Formosa area. It opens for both lunch and dinner. If Asian fusion delights are your thing, check out Sensai, which features dishes from Japan, China, India, and Thailand. This restaurant opens from 7pm to 9 pm for families and adults, and from 9pm to 10:30pm for adults only. You can also enjoy an assortment of snacks at the Palms Pool Bar (10am to 6pm), the Anantara Lounge & Bar (10:30am to midnight), and Botanic (a bar serving signature cocktails and fine gins, open from 6pm to 1am).

Those staying at suites enjoy exclusive access to Infindo, where they can sip

on fine Champagne and tuck into light bites. The Executive Lounge, meanwhile, is an area for business and pleasure where you can enjoy refreshing complimentary beverages while preparing for a meeting or enjoying a novel. Finally, Anantara’s signature Dining by Design experience offers a collection of exceptional menus in romantic settings with a private chef and waiting service.

As you can imagine, this resort has numerous outdoor and indoor spaces for everything from business events to weddings. The staff is also ready to advise guests on a host of experiences ranging from visits to local wineries to excursions to natural parks and even a hot air balloon ride!

WWW.ANANTARA-HOTELS.COM

A NUMBER WITH MANY PROFOUND AND FASCINATING MEANINGS!

You may have noticed from our cover that this is a very special edition for essential … it’s our 300th! Divide that number by 12 and that means that we have been publishing this magazine for 25 years straight! It’s only fitting, therefore, that we should pay homage to this special number.

Hear the number 300 and your mind may conjure up images of a magnificent Gerard Butler in the film inspired by the 300 Spartans who changed the face of history. You will recall that part of what made the film so special were the scenes in which the heroic soldiers hurled spears that froze onscreen, only to suddenly catch wind of their purpose and fly mercilessly at their intended objective. The film was a huge hit, grossing $ 456 million at the box office and getting people excited about something ancient historians have always known: the battle of Thermopylae was a glorious victory; one that would never be possible in modern times given the sophistication of technologies like AI in warfare. In

this article, we shall go into the significance of the number 300 in this battle and various disciplines ranging from numerology to culture, mathematics, and spirituality. If you’re as much of a numbers enthusiast as we are, read on.

300 HEROIC SPARTANS

Arguably the best-known historical association with the number 300 is the three-day Battle of Thermopylae – in which King Leonidas I of Sparta and his 300 warriors gave their all to defend Greece against the second Persian invasion. The Persians arrived at the pass of Thermopylae, confident that they would exact a quick victory. However, Leonidas and his team utilised a phalanx formation with overlapping shields and spears, forming a barrier that

was impenetrable in this narrow pass. The Spartans defeated 10,000 Persian soldiers over two days of battle. On the third day, a traitor revealed a secret pass through the mountains that enabled the Persians to reach the Spartans. When Leonidas heard of the treachery, he chose to stay and fight to the death, losing the battle but making big gains for Greece by giving Athens time to prepare for upcoming battles at sea (at Salamis) and on land (at Platea).

Thermopylae is so much more than another example of military tactics at their finest. It is a celebration of heroic resistance and sacrifice. Leonidas’ famous response when he was told that the Persian arrows would block out the sun – “Then we shall fight in the shade” – is a symbol of defiance, against all odds. ›

A statue of King Leonidas in Thermopylae, Greece

DIVINE INTERVENTION

The number 300 also has divine associations. It appears various times in Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist texts and traditions. For instance, in the Old Testament, Noah’s Ark is described as being 300 cubits long. The Ark is interpreted as symbolising a divine plan, and this measurement conjures up ideas of divine perfection and strength. Meanwhile, in the Book of Judges, Gideon’s Army defeats the Midianites with just 300 men, thanks to its unity and a sprinkling of divine intervention. In the Hindu Vedas (sacred texts), some individuals praise deities with offerings of ‘300 spears ’ or ‘300 horses,’ leading to the conclusion that this number is viewed as one of abundance or strength.

THE NUMBER 300 (OR 3) IN NUMEROLOGY

Modern numerology is largely

centred around the idea of a ‘life path number’ that is said to answer questions about one’s destiny, purpose, and personal path to success. To calculate yours, just take your birthday and put it into numerical form. Say your birthday is September 9, 2008. You can represent this date as 9/09/2008. Add these numbers and you get 9+9+2+8=28. Next, add the numbers in the sum. So, 2+8=10. Add these numbers again until you receive a single digit if possible; if not, jot down the two-digit number. In this case, your life path number would be 1+0=1.

Every life path number has a meaning. But we’re not interested in the number 1, we’re all about 3 this month! This is because the number 300 would be reduced in numerology to 3 (3+0+0). So, what exactly does 3 stand for? If you have this life path number, then according to

numerological theory, you are creative and positive. You enjoy communicating, which means you are destined to work in the media or in other professions that involve interpersonal skills (think sales or PR). People enjoy being with you because of your resilient spirit and upbeat attitude. However, your extroverted nature may pose a challenge for those wishing to get to know you better. Because language is your primary tool, you should use it wisely, saying what you truly mean instead of using your gifts to hide who you are.

The number 3 is also thought to symbolise abundance, wisdom, and good fortune.

But let’s take it back to 300. In numerology, 0 signifies unity and completeness. Therefore, the number 300 can signify happiness and fulfilment. It’s a great number to put you in the right frame of mind to achieve grand ambitions! ›

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THE ANGEL NUMBERS 3 AND 300

Angel numbers may sound like an esoteric subject whose appeal is limited to fervent New Agers, but many more people believe in angels and angel numbers than you may imagine! Did you know, for instance, that Carl Jung, the Swiss psychiatrist known as a father of analytical psychology, had an angel called Philemon whom he would encounter in his dreams?

For Jung, Philemon (which means ‘loving’) represented profound wisdom. The being revealed how consciousness worked, thereby sharing the very basis of Jungian philosophy. It enlightened him on the ‘objective psyche’ – the idea that part of our unconscious mind is genetically inherited rather than shaped

by personal experience. This psyche is often referred to as ‘the collective unconscious’, which comprises universal archetypes such as our self (the core of our psyche), our shadow (the darker side of our being), our animus or anima (the male or female part of our psyche), and our persona (the mask we use to face the world).

Of course, the ideal archetype was the self, because it represents the unified consciousness and unconsciousness of an individual. Jung often represented it as a circle, square, or mandala. For Jung, the self is created through a process known as individuation, in which the various aspects of personality are integrated. Jung believed that disharmony between the unconscious and the

conscious mind could lead to psychological issues.

In modern times, people who believe in angels access them in many ways… through symbols, meditation, prayer, and angel numbers. Angel numbers differ from numerology in that they are not calculated from a date. Instead, they are sequences of numbers (think 333 or 111) that appear to human beings, sometimes out of the blue. Some people believe that their angels are loved ones who have departed; others connect with an angel they have never met in person. Still others believe that their angel is a pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge. Much of the contemporary idea of angel numbers arises from the work of Doreen Virtue, who stated that when you see repeated numbers or number

JUNG BELIEVED THAT THE FOUR MAIN ARCHETYPES HOUSED MANY MORE, INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING. WHICH DO YOU IDENTIFY WITH?

» RULER

» CREATOR/ARTIST

» SAGE

» INNOCENT

» EXPLORER

» REBEL

» HERO

» WIZARD

» JESTER

» EVERYMAN

» LOVER

» CAREGIVER

Carl Jung’s angel Philemon was a guiding light

sequences, there is a message you can choose to notice and interpret or not.

Let’s get back, then, to the number 3. This angel number is a sign that now is the time to effect needed change in your life, whether that means starting a new job or ending a toxic relationship. The number 300, meanwhile, is seen as a powerful message sent from the spiritual realm urging you to trust your intuition and embrace the opportunities that are available to you. According to Lara Smith of Sunsigns.org, the number 300 is also “a cue from the divine forces that you must respect the people behind your success and be grateful.” When you see this number, your angels may be advising you to surround yourself with good people who improve your life. The number 300 is also strongly linked with intuition, meaning it is a sign for you to trust your internal compass more.

So, how can you spot your angel numbers? Just be observant! You could find repeated numbers on a street sign, a licence plate, or in a book you’re reading. Try to notice if you are seeing specific numbers repeatedly and turn to an online angel numbers site to see what they might mean.

NIKOLA TESLA AND THE NUMBER 3

Renowned scientist, Nikola Tesla, was fascinated by the number 3. Indeed, he once stated, “If you could grasp the magnificence of 3, 6, and 9, you would hold a key to the universe. You’ve entered a realm where numbers transcend being mere symbols, existing as real and vibrant entities.” Mathematicians believe that Tesla was referring to vortex maths –a system of numbers which explains the essence of form as a sphere with a vortex. In vortex maths, a sequence made up of the numbers 1, 2, 4, 8, 7, and 5 represents a vector from the third to the fourth dimension. The numbers 3, 6, and 9 are missing from this sequence because they are said to exist in the fourth dimension or quantum field. The numbers 1, 2, 4, 8, 7, and 5, meanwhile, represent forms in the physical world. ›

THE NUMBER 300 IN SCIENCE

There are many branches of science in which the number 300 appears, and one of these is Biology. Did you know, for instance, that adults have around 206 bones, but infants are born with approximately 300 bones? As they age, their bones fuse, decreasing the total count. Here’s another fascinating fact: the average human adult produces around 300 billion new cells daily, and some genes are approximately 300 base pairs long! This number also appears frequently in physics and engineering.

For example, 300K (Kelvin) is approximately room temperature (26.85C). The speed of light is around 300,000km/s in a vacuum, while in electrical engineering, 300 ohms is a common impedance value (a measure of opposition to alternating current) used in transmission lines and antennas.

300 IN MATHEMATICS

Finally, the number 300 has interesting mathematical properties. To start off with, it is a composite number whose prime factorisation is 22×3×52

This means that 300 can be expressed as the

product of its prime factors: 2×2×3×5×5. The number 300 is not a Fibonacci, Bell, or Catalan number; it is just a regular number. It is also an abundant number (the sum of its proper factors is greater than the number itself) rather than a perfect one (in which the sum of its proper factors is equal to the number itself). At essential, we also like to think that the sum of us (creators) and you (readers and lovers of graphic design) are also richer for the synergy we’ve created together. We hope you enjoy this, our 300th edition! This is essential and so are you! e

Babies are born with around 300 bones

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DM PROPERTIES | KNIGHT FRANK

MARKET REPORT

DM Properties | Knight Frank is known for producing authoritative intelligence reports on the property market, and an abridged version of this year’s Costa del Sol Market Report appears here in essential Magazine.

Post-Covid, demand for Costa del Sol property surged back like never before, making 2022 a record-breaking year where the combination of sales transactions and average price set the bar very high. Though sales dropped by around 20.31% in Marbella, Benahavís, and Estepona combined (Source: Fomento) in 2023, the effect continued, and the market went from exceptional to very good. This has continued in 2024, where is has been business as usual with another bumper summer season and continued high demand for homes. GOLDEN TRIANGLE SALES

A HEALTHY AND RESILIENT REAL ESTATE MARKET

Sales were down last year with 10,381 sales in 2022 and 8,273 in 2023 according to the Land Registry – with 2022 an exceptional year and 2023 good with a high level of transactions. Sales figures also remained strong in the first half of 2024, and in the Golden Triangle (Marbella, Estepona, and Benahavís), transactions were 5.4% higher than in the second half of 2023. ›

Marbella saw a notable increase in sales, rising by 13.92%, while Estepona experienced a slight increase of 1.65% and Benahavís dropped significantly by 20 52%. These fluctuations are often influenced by the availability of new stock, though resales continue to make up the majority of transactions, with newbuilds growing both quarter on quarter and by comparison with the same period last year. According to the most recent official figures from Q2/2024, sales in the Golden Triangle grew yearon- year by 6.98%.

NEW BUILD OR RESALE?

Of the 8,273 properties sold in 2023 (new build and resale) in the municipalities of Marbella, Benahavís, and Estepona, 7,565 were resale homes, which represented no less than 91% of all sales, a clear indication that resales continue to dominate the market in the area.

That said, new builds remain an important driver on the coast As we speak there are reported to be 374 new developments on the Costa del Sol and Málaga. New build villas and apartments are in high demand because of the styling, technical infrastructure, and amenities they offer.

SUPPLY VERSUS DEMAND

Until recently, demand for newly built homes on the Costa del Sol was such that supply struggled to keep up and many projects were sold entirely off-plan. This has started to slow down a little, with some phases now being sold during construction but generally before final completion. Over 2022, the amount of available stock was reduced by 11%, with another 8% reduction over 2023.

WHAT 1 MILLION € GETS YOU

COMPARATIVE VALUES IN THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE (MARBELLA, ESTEPONA, BENAHAVÍS) HOW MANY SQUARE METRES OF PRIME PROPERTY DOES 1.000.000€ BUY YOU IN:

MOST POPULAR AREAS

The most highly desired areas, such as the Golden Mile, have to some extent become a victim of their own success, in this case registering fewer sales than in recent years, most likely due to the fact that prices/m2 here are beginning to rival those of major urban centres such as London and Paris. The space, privacy, and security of La Zagaleta continues to exert a strong pull among top-end buyers, while nearby El Madroñal, which suffered a drop in popularity for a while, is back in favour, with its country villas being modernised and new ones built, while the likes of Sierra Blanca, Nueva Andalucía, Guadalmina, and Los Monteros remain classics.

TOP 3 FOREIGN BUYERS

NATIONALITIES IN 2023 IN MÁLAGA PROVINCE WERE:

FASTEST-GROWING AREAS

New upcoming high-end addresses include Los Flamingos, El Paraíso, and Real de La Quinta. Strong demand over the past three years in El Paraíso has seen many of the older properties renovated and modernised, either by homeowners, buyers, or investors, following in the footsteps of Nueva Andalucía.

Much new development has moved from Marbella to Benahavís, Estepona, and also Manilva, Ojén, and Mijas. Estepona has benefitted from the availability of buildable land and as a result it has been in the spotlight of developers for some years now.

NEW URBAN PLAN

After years, the Marbella Town Hall’s urban planning department presented the Plan General de Ordenación Municipal (PGOM) in March this year – a whitepaper that lays out the vision for the city’s urban development, followed by the more detailed Plan de Ordenación Urbana (POU), which it is hoped will be approved and come into effect within the next two years If so, it will pave the way for the legalisation of thousands of properties with a hitherto ambiguous status, as well as provide clear guidelines for future development and the obtaining of building licences.

BUYER PROFILE

Foreigners accounted for around one third (33.71%) of the buying public in Málaga province. While there are no official figures, this percentage rises dramatically in areas such as Marbella, Benahavís, and Estepona. British buyers still top the table in Málaga province (15%), followed by the Dutch (8%), and Swedes (8%).

New markets include Poland, Czechia, and to a lesser extent Romania. To this could soon be added Slovakia, Hungary, and the former Yugoslav republics, with the Russian market slightly reviving and of course there has been a wave of Ukrainian buyers and renters since the beginning of the war.

Meanwhile, traditional markets such as the Norwegian, Danish, Irish, French, Germanspeaking, and Arabic ones remain significant, with middle to upper end Moroccan buyers also strong and now joined by a growing wave of interest from North America, (almost 2% market share).

YOUNGER BUYERS

The average age of buyers has been dropping for some time. According to Knight Frank’s European Relocation Survey, Digital Nomad visas have ›

become the most popular route for those relocating, with 36% opting for this flexible work option. Marbella, with its crossgenerational appeal, ranks as the third most-preferred resort destination for Millennials.

GLOBAL CONNECTIVITY DRIVING MARKET GROWTH

Direct flights are vital in boosting tourism and attracting international buyers and entrepreneurs to the region. Málaga Airport connects to 158 destinations across 35 countries, including popular new ones to the USA and China.

PRICE EVOLUTION

Strong demand and high sales levels see prices continue to grow. According to the asking prices registered by Spanish property portal Idealista, prices increased by 7.5% in Benahavís, 19.3% in Estepona, and 18.6% in Marbella in 2023. In spite of this, there seems to be no immediate danger of a bubble developing, as supply, demand, and prices

appear to be well-matched at the moment. By June 2024, according to Idealista, the average prime price in the Golden Triangle was €4.229/m2 , showing a year-on-year increase of 11.13%.

MARKET TRENDS

Construction costs are beginning to level off, along with the cost of land (frequently ranging between €300 – €1.500/M2 , depending on location and if the land is ‘bare’ or already includes a project with pre-planning). Lower inflation and expected interest rates reductions will have a positive effect on a market that is in any case not too dependent upon mortgages.

CONSUMER TRENDS

A consistent increase in build quality and accompanying amenities has led people to expect modern styles and resources, home automation

systems, and a long list of community facilities. Sustainability is increasingly important, while branded residences, a cross branded project between a developer and a luxury brand, are now prominent. As per Knight Frank’s ‘Branded Residences Report’, buyers of branded residences are usually willing to pay a premium, typically between 25 to 35% more than a non-branded property.

DESIGN TRENDS

Having launched into minimalist white modernism a little over a decade ago, the trend has for the past few years evolved towards more earthy tones, together with the use of materials such as wood and stone, and we are now witnessing more projects with fresh architectural styling than we have for some time.

MARBELLA IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MARBELLA HAS TOPPED THE ‘BEST EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS 2024’ LIST AND IS PROMINENTLY FEATURED IN KNIGHT FRANK’S EUROPEAN LIFESTYLE REPORT 2024, STANDING OUT AS A TOP DESTINATION FOR HIGHNET-WORTH INDIVIDUALS (HNWIS).

TAKEAWAYS FOR A PROMISING 2025

» 2024 Sales in the Golden Triangle have accelerated in the first half of 2024 showing a 5.4% increase over S2/2023 and a year-on-year increase of 3.16% suggesting a growing interest in the region, potentially driven by continued investment appeal and desirability among buyers.

» Buyer profile: Foreign demand remains strong with over 30% of property purchases in Málaga province made by foreign buyers in the

first half of 2024.

» Younger buyers are attracted by remote working and digital nomad visas.

» Consumer Preferences: Buyers are increasingly seeking modern, high-quality properties with advanced amenities, sustainability credentials, and branded residences.

» Property types: Apartments remain the most popular property type, even though the interest in villas in our area remains higher than in other regions. ›

» Resale property continues to dominate the market in our area.

» Construction and supply: New developments are in high demand, but supply has struggled to keep up. Rising construction costs and delays have impacted the market, with prices per m2 rising significantly.

» Price evolution: Property prices continue to rise, with significant increases in the Golden Triangle. Despite this, there is no immediate risk of a market bubble.

» Market trends: Interest rates are expected to decrease further, which may positively affect the market.

» Economic outlook: The local economy is strong and despite Geopolitical instability in eastern Europe, the region continues to attract buyers.

» Industry developments: The real estate sector

is pushing for professionalisation and regulation. More established agencies are focusing on the upper market segment.

» Wish list: Desired improvements include sustainable growth, better infrastructure, new urban planning in Marbella, and continued development of public amenities and green spaces.

FOR THE FULL REPORT, CLICK THE QR CODE, OR CONTACT: DIANA

MORALES

PROPERTIES

TEL: (+34) 952 765 138

INFO@DMPROPERTIES.COM

WWW.DMPROPERTIES.COM

MARBELLA TRAFFIC…

Those of you who have been here for more than a few years will remember a time when you could park, walk and not suffer in traffic queues at all times of the day. The traffic problem that is Marbella has arrived and now we’re waiting for the solution...

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ

Cast your mind back to a time when, with the exception of the height of the summer season (August, really), you could drive anywhere, park, and then walk around without having to sidestep the crowds. You also didn’t have to book and reserve everything in advance, least of all during the sleepy winter months. Traffic and crowds made the summer a little trying, but for the rest of the year all was well on the Costa del Sol and it really lived up to the billing of offering exceptional quality of life and a gentler pace than the hectic urban environments further north.

TROUBLE IN PARADISE

Sometimes a place can become the victim of its own success – in fact, it normally does – and the current situation in Marbella and on the Costa del Sol was long in the making. How anyone can turn a blind eye for so long and think that it’s alright to build thousands of new homes and not extend or adapt the road network is beyond comprehension. Maybe the local authorities believed it would all work itself out miraculously as the new homes, once bought, would only be used during the summer holidays, but if true, it’s an assumption that has been proven horribly wrong. Whatever their thought processes, or lack thereof, not a thing has been done over the past decade.

The local administration revels in record tourist numbers without thinking about the chaos experienced in the short term and the impact this could have for tourism in the longer term. What rightminded HNW visitor would pay good money to suffer traffic jams all day long, and what rightminded HNW individual would pay millions of euros for a luxury home to see no let up in the situation throughout the year? There are now traffic jams most days of the year and most hours of the day, not just on the woefully inadequate N340, but on just about every stretch of road in and around town, including formerly peaceful suburban ones.

Covid added greatly to the situation, as after the pandemic lockdowns something came over people and entire populations moved here from other parts of Spain and Europe. The

population has exploded, and while this may have been largely unexpected, there are still no signs of any major initiatives on the part of the local authorities.

THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM

Usually, only cities much larger than Marbella face year-round problems of this kind, unless their transport infrastructure is underdeveloped, as is the case here. Besides the fact that the permanent population is expanding rapidly, it is well known that it also doubles during the summer months, yet Marbella is rather unique in that it has only one road running across its long east-west axis. Yes, all those many residential roads that criss-cross the coast all feed into it, and except for short distances do not connect with one another. You could not design a better system if you wanted to create gridlock. ›

The problem is that this issue is very difficult to resolve as most of the coast is so built up that there simply isn’t any space to construct connecting roads and bridges to alleviate the N340. In other words, there seems to be no master plan for the coast and therefore no provision was ever made for growth, much though it was encouraged. Unfortunately, the one thing that has always characterised the management of this region is a lack of vision, not even a willingness to learn from the mistakes of other similar spots around the world, and so the authorities now face an almost insurmountable problem that threatens to eventually grind the local economy to a halt, just as it does with mobility right now.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

The only solutions that have been put forward in past years are the building of a railway link to connect with that of Fuengirola (great, but where?)

and making the coastal toll road more accessible by reducing rates or doing away with them altogether. This would be amazing, if only because it could tempt the hordes of longdistance haulage trucks away from the N340. They currently help greatly to clutter and pound the coastal road, doing a lot to damage its surface. Just having them out of the way would already begin to alleviate the situation.

However, much as the local authorities have pushed for this solution, those above them in the chain of command have brushed it and the railway link aside. They have been doing this for decades, and even though the regional government of Andalucía is now favourable to the Costa del Sol, the central government in Madrid – and this administration in particular – has shown no interest. The main contribution of Pedro Sánchez’s government to this problem so far has been

a flippant comment by the Minister of Transport, Pere Navarro, that people should carpool more often, sparking a sharp reaction from Francisco Salado, the President of the Diputación de Málaga, that it will take more than just Blablacar to resolve the infrastructural shortcomings of the Costa del Sol.

The fact is, the coastal region has been allowed to sprawl without a clear master plan for the future, and as a result any solution will be very complicated and costly. That is a fait accompli, so errors of the past prejudice us now and continue to be repeated, the consequences of which will hit us in the years to come. Marbella Town Hall’s new urban plan speaks of creating 15-minute suburban zones with adequate services and amenities so that people won’t have to cut across town on a daily basis, but while it is a valuable suggestion it will a) take years to realise, and b) only help alleviate over-dependence on the N340, not solve it. Maybe Marbella should look to the likes of Bogota and Curitiba to come up with creative outof-the-box solutions for traffic management or else the problem will catch up with us. e

ASTON MARTIN VANQUISH

The bombastic British brute returns. Hail the all-new Vanquish as it revives the marque’s legendary 2001 super grand tourer, pushing supreme style and apex performance to new heights.

WORDS SAM HEXTER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ASTON MARTIN

You’ll seldom come across car names as iconic as this one: Vanquish. The Aston that most notably accelerated to fame after being piloted by Pierce Brosnan posing as Britain’s super spy in Die Another Day back in 2002. And praise be, Aston Martin has returned the Vanquish as its new rangetopping GT for 2025, and in its new form, is the most powerful production car the marque has ever produced.

Powered by a thunderous 5.2-litre twinturbocharged V12, the Vanquish aims to do just that to its nearest rivals. The Vanquish will produce 835 horsepower and 1,000Nm

of torque to shove you down the street. Power meets the road via the rear wheels only and you’ll see 100km/h in a staggering 3.3 seconds from standing. The only Aston cars quicker are the very limited-edition Victor and Valkyrie, though the Vanquish promises almost all of the performance with far less compromise on real roads. Shifting gears will come by the use of column-mounted paddles at the command of the familiar venerable eight-speed automatic, but now with greatly improved shift times. Manual transmissions now appear to be limited to only the most exclusive and illusive models in the AM range. ›

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

Aston has made no secret about the intention of the Vanquish, with this hulking new GT car setting its crosshairs firmly on Ferrari’s 12 Cilindri. In fact, AM has been on a mission to make each of its frontengine GT cars – the Vantage, DB12, and now the Vanquish –the most powerful cars in their respective segments. Which makes for some decent bragging rights at the golf course, if you’re into measuring that sort of thing.

But atop its stirring performance stats are its looks. Aston’s design department have done, in one man’s opinion, a sterling job of modernising some of the classic Vanquish lines and cues, while making it look distinctly like a new-gen Aston. It also shares no body panels with the DB12, which wouldn’t be a bad thing if it did, as the DB12 is stunning in its own right. But it certainly helps to give the new Vanquish a more unique

look and feel over the previous cars.

Aston has decided to elongate the classic long-hood GT proportions, giving a nod to some of its heritage cars, extending out the wheelbase by pushing the front axel 80mm further forward from the A-pillar. A subtle change that has a huge impact on the imposing scale of this wonderous looking machine. The rest of the outer shell houses some trick aero slits and cutaways as we’ve come to expect, inspired by Aston’s F1 engineering prowess, helping to manage hot and cold air, and keeping the Vanquish stuck to the floor at speed. The grille is larger than the one found on the face of the DB12 – yes, that is actually possible – helping the V12 to chug down more cool air on the move. Advancing to the back of the car you’ll feast your eyes on a contrasting lower diffuser at the bottom, and on top, a ducktail spoiler – a staple of many great AM cars of all previous generations spanning the marque’s illustrious 111-year back catalogue. ›

» POWER 835hp and 1,000Nmtorque

» 0-100KM/H 3.3 seconds

» TOP SPEED 344km/h

» MARKET ALTERNATIVES

Ferrari 12Cilindri, Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 Turbo S

» PRICE Estimated €350.000

The engineers at Aston Martin claim the car to be first and foremost a grand tourer. A very fast one at that. But a car that will remain sophisticated and comfortable, while being shockingly capable. As such, they’ve made efforts to ensure the weight is low for a car of this nature. Dry, the Vanquish will tip the scales at 1,774kg with all the lightweight options ticked on your order form. It’s certainly no Lotus Elise, but it’s packing a lot less heft than the Bentley Continental.

At the time of writing, the sticker price for the new Vanquish is to be confirmed but expect it to exceed the DB12 and be in the region of €350.000. Aston is limiting production of this new car to just 1,000 examples each year, so you’ll have to get orders in early and can still expect this to be quite a rare sight on the road. The first cars should be rolling out of showrooms before this Christmas.

While we can’t wait to discover more about how the new Vanquish will drive on the road, there’s absolutely no doubt that this new flagship face of the Aston Martin brand looks truly exquisite. e

#DuneMomen ts

@ d u n e b e a c h m a r b e l l a d u n e b e a c h m a r b e l l a c o m

PEDRO PASCAL GLADIATOR II

Pedro Pascal has steadily risen to international fame through a raft of standout performances in major television series and films. His early career took off with emerging roles in the likes of The Good Wife, CSI, Law & Order, Lights Out, Red Widow, and Graceland, yet it was the portrayal of Oberyn Martell in the fourth season of Game of Thrones, in 2014, that proved to be a seminal point in the acting progression of the Chilean.

And taking on the lead role of Javier Peña in Narcos further cemented the actor’s reputation for delivering intense, layered performances. Pascal’s career reached new heights with his leading gambits in Star Wars franchise spin-off The Mandalorian, which started in 2019, and videogame adaptation, The Last of Us in 2023, where he took on iconic characters that expanded his reputation. His portrayal of Joel in the latter show particularly resonated with audiences, as he brought emotional depth to a postapocalyptic world;

while his role as the masked Mandalorian combined mystery with strength. Both appearances have earned him critical acclaim and legions of dedicated fans.

Despite his busy acting schedule, the now-49-year-old has maintained a private personal life. He has never married and has said humorously, “I'm never gonna be a daddy!”

Yet, he remains deeply connected to his family, notably supporting his sister, Lux Pascal, when she came out as transgender. Lux credited him for being a pivotal guide in her journey, saying, “He was one of the first to give me the things that formed my identity.”

He is also an outspoken advocate for refugees, crediting his own parents' refugee status as the reason he has the opportunities he does.

Looking ahead, he is starring in blockbuster Gladiator II this November, he lends his voice to the animated film The Wild Robot and is reprising his role in the The Last of Us season two, slated for early 2025.

Fans can also expect to see him in The Fantastic Four: First Steps later next year, further solidifying his place as one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood.

WHAT CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE IN GLADIATOR II?

“My character, Marcus Acacius –who trained under Maximus in the original story – plays a pivotal role in the story. It’s a fresh angle within the Gladiator universe, but still honours the legacy of the original film.

Working with this talented cast and Ridley Scott was incredible. There’s a lot of depth and complexity to the character, which made it a fantastic challenge as an actor. I think fans will appreciate how the story unfolds.” ›

HOW DID YOU PREPARE FOR THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE ROLE?

“I worked with a team of trainers to build up the strength and endurance needed. There were fight sequences and stunts that required months of preparation.

Ridley’s attention to authenticity pushed me to immerse myself in the physicality of the character. Beyond that, I also studied the historical period to better understand the world my character inhabits.

Doing the fight scenes with

Paul Mescal were very intense as he had bulked up so much, I was actually wondering what it would have been like to have faced off against him in Roman times. I’m glad I didn’t have to [laughs].”

YOU SAID THAT IT HONOURS THE ORIGINAL BUT HOW DOES THIS MOVIE DIFFER FROM THE FIRST FILM?

“I would say that it keeps the epic scope of the original but explores new themes and characters. The story dives deeper into the political and social landscape of ancient Rome and the action sequences are as visceral as ever.

But it's more than just a continuation – it’s a reimagining of sorts. The emotional beats feel fresh, and the characters are more diverse, reflecting a more complex view of Roman society than we saw in the original.”

WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH RIDLEY SCOTT?

“It was like attending a masterclass every day. His attention to detail, from the historical accuracy to the smallest emotional nuance, is remarkable.

He knows exactly how to draw out performances that serve the story and he gives actors the freedom to explore their characters while guiding them with his vision. His enthusiasm for storytelling is infectious and being on set with him was an incredible learning experience.”

complexity. The characters are deeply flawed, making for some fascinating dynamics.

At its core, it’s a story of power, revenge, and survival in an unforgiving world. Whether you’re a fan of the original or new to the franchise, there’s something here for everyone.”

There are references to the original and I would never put anyone off watching Gladiator, as it’s such a great movie and it will certainly enrich anyone’s understanding of the story and characters.

SO, WHAT CAN CINEMAGOERS EXPECT

FROM GLADIATOR II?

“I’d say, a visually stunning, emotionally gripping film. There’s the grand spectacle and intense action that made the original so iconic, but this movie adds new layers of

DO PEOPLE NEED TO WATCH THE ORIGINAL FILM BEFORE WATCHING THIS ONE?

“While Gladiator II is set two decades after the first film and continues the story of Lucius, now grown up, it can still be enjoyed as a stand-alone film.

However, with this new film, we have introduced new plotlines and characters that allow viewers to engage with it without having seen the original. But, yeah, there’s nothing wrong with reacquainting yourself with the first film.”

DID YOU WATCH IT AGAIN?

“Yes!” ›

ANOTHER GREATLY EXPECTED PROJECT OF YOURS HAS SEASON 2 ON ITS WAY NEXT YEAR. THE LAST OF US… WHAT HAVE WE GOT TO LOOK FORWARD TO WITH THAT?

“Oh, the stakes are going to rise significantly in season 2. We’ll see more intense, emotional moments as the story dives deeper into the characters' lives and explores the darker themes of the game.

The stakes for Joel and Ellie will be higher and the world around them becomes more dangerous. It’s going to be a more complex, character-driven season, filled with surprises for both those who played the game and new viewers.”

AGAIN, WITH IT BEING THE SECOND IN A FRANCHISE, HOW DOES THIS SEASON 2 DIFFER FROM SEASON 1?

“Well, the first season was about survival and forming the bond between Joel and Ellie. In season 2, we explore the consequences of the choices they made.

The emotional weight is heavier, and we see how these characters evolve in a postapocalyptic world. This will be grittier and dive deeper into personal conflicts. It’s also going to introduce more characters from the second game, expanding the narrative.”

HOW HAS PLAYING JOEL CHANGED FOR YOU IN SEASON 2?

“He’s much more vulnerable in this one due to physical impairments. The first season showed him as a hardened survivor, but now we see more layers of his emotional complexity, as well.

The stakes are personal and his relationship with Ellie has grown, which adds a new dimension to his character. Playing Joel this time around felt more introspective, and you really see the toll the world has taken on him. Ellie is immune, so she becomes the strong one.”

The Last of Us

“BALANCING A HECTIC CAREER WITH PERSONAL TIME IS DEFINITELY CHALLENGING. MY SCHEDULE IS OFTEN PACKED, SO FINDING TIME FOR MYSELF BECOMES A PRIORITY. I FOCUS ON STAYING PRESENT AND MAKING THE MOST OF THE MOMENTS I HAVE FOR RELAXATION AND SELF-CARE”

WILL SEASON 2 STICK CLOSELY TO THE SECOND GAME’S STORYLINE?

“There will be similarities between season 2 and The Last of Us Part II game, but the show also allows for its own narrative freedom. While key moments from the game will be present, there are changes to keep it fresh for both fans of the game and newcomers.

The creators, Craig (Mazin) and Neil (Druckmann), wanted to honour the essence of the game, but also adapt it in a way that works for TV.”

WHAT HAS EXCITED YOU MOST ABOUT RETURNING?

“To explore the deeper emotional arcs of the characters. Season 2 really dives into complex themes like revenge, forgiveness, and loss. The world expands and the

tension builds in ways that I think will surprise viewers. I also love that the show continues to challenge the traditional ‘hero’ narrative –these characters are flawed and their choices are not always easy, which makes the story incredibly rich to perform.”

YOU PLAYED THE GAME EVEN THOUGH CRAIG MAZIN ASKED THE ACTORS NOT TO, DIDN’T YOU?

“[Laughs] Well, I don’t always do what I’m told to!”

HOW HAS YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN THE NEW MANDALORIAN CHANGED COMPARED TO PREVIOUS SEASONS?

“Unlike previous seasons where I was physically on set and in the suit, this time around, I’m primarily contributing my voice work. It’s

been an interesting transition, focusing more on vocal performance and less on the physicality of the role.

It’s due to my time there clashing with The Last of Us season 2 and obviously, I can’t be in two places at once, as much as I would like to be.”

WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT FROM DIN DJARIN IN THE UPCOMING SEASON?

“His journey continues to evolve and even though I’m not in the suit, the character’s essence and development are very much present through my voice work.

So, you can expect some deeper explorations into his relationships and a continuation of his quest that will have significant implications for the larger Star Wars universe.” ›

The Mandalorian

THERE IS A SPIN-OFF FILM IN THE WORKS, AS WELL – THE MANDALORIAN & GROGU –AND IT’S RUMOURED TO BE THE FINALE OF THE SERIES… IS THAT RIGHT?

“What I will say is that while the show involves a lot of action and adventure within a fantastical universe, the film will present a more grounded and nuanced character. It’s planned to close out the stories of other shows like Ahsoka and Boba Fett, as well.”

HOW DID TRANSITIONING FROM SMALLER ROLES TO MAJOR PARTS IN NARCOS

AND GAME OF THRONES IMPACT YOUR CAREER?

“Those projects were pivotal, offering not just visibility but also a deeper exploration of my craft. Playing characters like Javier Peña and Oberyn Martell allowed me to showcase my range and connect with a global audience.

It was a huge boost, opening doors to more diverse and challenging roles. The experience taught me a lot about the industry and solidified my passion for storytelling, setting the stage for future opportunities and I’m so thankful for that.”

HOW DO YOU MANAGE THE BALANCE BETWEEN BEING ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT-AFTER ACTORS AND MAINTAINING YOUR PERSONAL LIFE?

“Balancing a hectic career with personal time is definitely challenging. My schedule is often packed, so finding time for myself becomes a priority. I focus on staying present and making the most of the moments I have for relaxation and selfcare.

It’s about managing my commitments carefully and ensuring I maintain a healthy work-life balance.” e

Game of Thrones

Meet Pedro Peña, founder of the eponymous interior design showroom in Marbella. Learn about a Danish start-up that is revolutionising the aroma of non-alcoholic beer. Preview this month’s top releases for the large and small screens.

wwhat’s cool?

COMPILED BY IAIN BLACKWELL

DOM PÉRIGNON

SPECIAL EDITION

Dom Pérignon and Jean-Michel Basquiat are two legends separated in time and space but each, in their own way, embodied the culture of their time and shaped that of future generations. With a special edition of Vintage 2015, Dom Pérignon pays tribute to an artist who formed one of the most iconic and powerful artistic expressions of our time.

WWW.DOMPERIGNON.COM

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

From the agency ApoteoSurprise, starting from 2025 it will be possible to propose during an intimate dinner in space. On board a space capsule lifted by a stratospheric balloon to an altitude of 35 kms, romantics will have the opportunity to savour an exceptional meal prepared by a French Michelinstarred chef and served by an AI-powered robot.

WWW.APOTEOSURPRISE.COM

ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST SERIES II

With Ghost Series II, Rolls-Royce has crafted its most technologically advanced vehicle, blending exhilarating performance with the height of sophistication for an unrivalled driving experience. Buyers can personalise their Ghost with an expressive Bespoke shade, such as shimmering Mustique Blue, and customise the instrument dials with a unique hue.

MOXY BARCELONA – OFFICIAL SPONSON OF 080 BARCELONA FASHION WEEK

Coinciding with its recent opening, and marking the arrival of the Moxy Hotels brand in Spain, the Moxy Barcelona hotel participated as the official sponsor for the 34th edition of the 080 Barcelona Fashion Week. The world of fashion fits perfectly with the playful spirit of Roxy Barcelona, especially created for the most active travellers, the dynamic, bold, and ‘young at heart’.

WWW.MARRIOTT.COM

FASHION GROUP INTERNATIONAL –NIGHT OF STARS

Fashion Group International celebrated its 40th annual Night of Stars gala at The Plaza in Manhattan, gathering luminaries and leaders of the fashion world, including stars, designers, executives, and leading cultural figures. The chic gathering involved a host of top names, including Zac Posen, Kate Hudson, Coco Rocha, and Nicky Hilton Rothschild.

WWW.FGI.ORG

SHA WELLNESS CLINIC AWARDS

The SHA wellness Clinic in Alicante is revered in Spain for its legendary facilities and meticulously curated health treatments. Adding to other accolades from Condé Nast Traveller and Modern Luxury Travel Awards this year, it was recently honoured as the World’s Best Wellness Clinic and Spain’s Best Wellness Retreat by World Spa Awards.

WWW.SHAWELLNESS.COM

COQUETTO – SUSTAINABLE LUXURY & TRADITION

Located in Madrid’s Calle Fortuny, Coquetto is a project by the brothers Mario, Rafael, and Juan Diego, creators of the famous Coque restaurant. Coquetto stands out for its focus on sustainability, tradition, and respect, combining traditional recipes with contemporary techniques to offer a gastronomic experience based on fresh quality ingredients.

WWW.COQUETTOBAR.COM

WINE TOURISM DAY AT MONTECILLO

To commemorate Wine Tourism Day on November 10, Bodegas Montecillo, the third oldest winery in the D.O.Ca Rioja, invites you to take a trip through the history of the brand with an exclusive visit to one of its two wineries, in Navarrete, and Fuenmayor which was founded in 1870. This experience is available exclusively on November 9 and 10 by prior arrangement.

WWW.BODEGASMONTECILLO.COM

CACAO SAMPAKA FLAGSHIP IN MADRID

Cacao Sampaka, a brand whose chocolates are authentic works of art, celebrates its 25th anniversary with the opening of its first flagship store on Madrid’s Golden Mile. Specialising in the best sourced cocoa beans, the brand’s chocolates and cocoa jewels are renowned for their freshness, intense flavours, creamy textures, and captivating aromas

WWW.CACAOSAMPAKA.COM

VANITY FAIR &ARMANI BEAUTY

Vanity Fair and Armani Beauty celebrated a night of talent and beauty at the 72nd edition of the San Sebastián Film Festival, with guests from the world of cinema, fashion and beauty, art and social life, including Miguel Angel Silvestre, Eugenia Silva, María Pombo, Ingrid García-Johnson, Ana Fernández, Feliciano López, Sandra Gago, Fernando Llorente, and Manuel Velasco.

WWW.REVISTAVANITYFAIR.ES

WWW.ARMANIBEAUTY.ES

BoConcept

BoConcept

Marbella

BoConcept El Corte Inglés

Ramón Areces

VP HOTEL & ARTS AWARDS

The first edition of the VP Hotel & Arts Awards exceeded all expectations with a total of 269 participants, competing for €32.000 in prizes in the categories: painting, sculpture, and photography. The finalists will exhibit their works in a group exhibition at VP Metropolitano Madrid in November, coinciding with the reopening of the hotel following a full renovation. The enormous The Waterfall created by Pere Gifre for the building is the central work of this new collection of contemporary art.

WWW.VPHOTELS.COM

VICTORIA’S SECRET FASHION SHOW

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show reappeared with a splash in New York City with a long-awaited event that returned the spotlight on one of the world’s most iconic fashion events. The 2024 Fashion Show featured some of the most famous models in catwalk history, including Bella and Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss, Eva Herzigova, Adriana Lima, and Tyra Banks.

WWW.VICTORIASSECRET.COM

A MARBELLA DYNASTY OF STYLE PEDRO PEÑA

The name Pedro Peña resounds in Marbella, where it is synonymous with style, quality, artistry, and beauty of form and texture, for no-one else has had the impact on this region’s luxurious homes than the city’s most renowned interior designer has, and that is a legacy in itself.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

The very birth of Marbella as a luxurious resort of international repute has aristocratic roots that can be traced back to the town’s first modern pioneers, Norberto Goizueta and of course Prince Alfonso von Hohenlohe. Since they first put the town on the map, so to speak, not just an international elite in the form of Hollywood actors and business tycoons was attracted to these shores, but also royalty from different parts of Europe and beyond. Few remain, and yet it is no exaggeration to include the name Pedro Peña among those who have helped to give shape to this town, for where the architect creates the structures

that make up our urban landscape, the interior designer produces the very setting within which we live.

This applies to none more so than Pedro Peña, who for over five decades now has styled the places we call home, decorating in the process many, if not most, of Marbella’s finest and most luxurious properties and commercial projects. “I founded Pedro Peña Interior Design in 1972 at a time when the town was beginning to emerge as a more sophisticated luxury destination. The rustic chic of the early years was gradually being replaced by a wider offer of style and luxury, and many homeowners were delighted to have access to it,” says the man who was to become Marbella’s

most celebrated interior designer.

ARCHITECTURE AND ART

“My passion has always been design, and while it originally took the form of architecture and art, I found my true calling when I merged the two and become focused upon interior design. The company I founded was grounded in these elements: art and interior design, and it grew with the nascent demand for exclusive and personalised home decors. The style and design philosophy that I have developed over the years is thanks to the fact that I have been able to absorb and evolve through a great many stylistic periods and cultures,

“THE COMPANY I FOUNDED WAS GROUNDED IN THESE THREE

ELEMENTS: ARCHITECTURE,

ART, AND INTERIOR DESIGN”

and this exposure has moulded me into the person I am today.”

Pedro seldom speaks of ‘his’ success, for not only has his son Felipe become an important part of the business, but the founder also credits his team for the fact that Pedro Peña Interior Design has long since become the leader in its market. “Above all, it has been our capacity to really listen to our clients, who have come from around the world, and with whom we have grown and evolved. Within this, we have always remained true to our philosophy and maintained a dedication to quality, from our workshops and design work to the final implementation and project management. The creative spirit and

ability is the visible edifice that stands on the shoulders of these solid foundations.”

If asked to define ‘his style’, Pedro Peña describes it as an internationally refined and sophisticated offering that builds upon its Mediterranean setting and roots. “We have always grown with the times, and that has taken the form of an on-going desire to perfect and redefine the ultimate Mediterranean home and interior, specific to this location with its beautiful light and views, and its outdoor lifestyle. Within this concept, we seek to create spaces that are unique to each home and its owners.”

TRANSCENDING TIME

Truly inspired design is

timeless, for it leaves fad and fashion far behind, still shining brightly when the other has long lost its lustre. All designers seek to remain inspired and retain an edge, and consequently travel, exposure to new ideas across different disciplines, and interaction with diverse cultures, lifestyles, personalities and perspectives are of crucial value. “We also follow new design movements, technological developments, the exciting new collections of the brands we work with, and many other forms of cross-pollination that feed the spirit and keep ideas flowing. Investing in the right team and building up a very high level of technical and creative ability is central to all of this.” ›

In recent years, he has seen a more informal and relaxed style of luxury and sophistication flow in Marbella styling that is nonetheless rooted in comfort and quality. “We’re also seeing a growing demand for spaces that blend different uses and bring people together, such as entertainment areas that are flexible and multifunctional. Another trend, which I welcome, is the movement towards natural materials and sustainable principles, often forming the fusion of avantgarde technology and classical craftsmanship,” says Pedro. As befits a true creative spirit, his favourite part of any project remains the original conceptual

design stage, which he sees as the moment of styling in its purest form. “This is when creativity tingles, the mind catches hold of a vison and flows from there to conceive, create, and bring together many different elements that ultimately coincide to become the mosaic – the setting in which you live. We seek to make that a space that functions optimally while making you happy, comfortable, and defining the concept of being within ‘your home’.”

He also greatly enjoys the final phases of a project, when all these ideas and elements come together and take visual, physical, and sensory form,

transforming a space into something special and unique. “One of the most rewarding of all the many beautiful projects we have been privileged to work on was actually our own showroom in Marbella, as it not only functions as our headquarters but also embodies our very philosophy and serves as the showcase of all we do and stand for.” A culmination of half a century of giving shape to the very concept of the Marbella home.

PEDRO PEÑA INTERIOR DESIGN

TEL: (+34) 952 824 962

MARKETING@PEDROPENA.COM WWW.PEDROPENA.COM

HOT NEW MOVIES

KNOX GOES AWAY

» Genre: Action

» Director: Michael Keaton (The Merry Gentleman)

» Cast: Michael Keaton, Al Pacino, James Marsden

John Knox is a seasoned contract killer who is diagnosed with a rapidly progressing form of dementia. As his memory begins to deteriorate, he decides there is still time left to right his past wrongs. When his estranged son becomes entangled in a dangerous situation, Knox sees an opportunity for redemption and he sets out on a high-risk mission to protect his son from harm. As time runs out and his memory fades, he must rely on his wits and instincts in a race against both his illness and the hostile enemies hunting them down.

GLADIATOR II

» Genre: Drama » Director: Ridley Scott (Gladiator)

» Cast: Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn

Set years after the events of the original Gladiator, Gladiator II is centred on Emperor Commodus’ nephew, Lucius, who witnessed the heroic death of the gladiator, Maximus in the Colosseum many years before. When his homeland is destroyed by powerful Roman emperors, Lucius decides to avenge his family and reclaim his property. He steps bravely into the Colosseum as a gladiator, just as Maximus did before him. Strongly aware of the legacy that Maximus left behind, Lucius turns to the past to find the strength and honour that can restore the glory of Rome to its people.

THE PIANO LESSON

» Genre: Drama

» Director: Malcolm Washington (Benny Got Shot)

» Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Danielle Deadwyler

Set in 1936 Pittsburgh during the Great Depression, The Piano Lesson focuses on the Charles family and their heirloom piano, which is intricately carved with images representing the family’s enslaved ancestors. Boy Willie arrives at his sister Berniece’s home with plans to sell the piano to buy farmland so they can build a better future. Berniece refuses, insisting that the piano holds the spirit and suffering of their ancestors. As tensions build up between the siblings, supernatural events reveal the deep, haunting legacy of slavery and the unresolved pain of the family’s past.

SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE

» Genre: Drama

» Director: Tim Mielants (Patrick)

» Cast: Cillian Murphy, Michelle Fairley, Emily Watson

Set in a small Irish town during Christmas in 1985, Small Things Like These follows Bill Furlong – a coal merchant and loving father of five children. As he goes about his routine deliveries, he uncovers disturbing secrets connected to a local convent and its treatment of unwed mothers and children. The town, which is made up of devout Catholics, remains silent and complicit in the church’s actions. Bill faces a dilemma – whether to intervene and help those suffering or remain silent like everyone else.

RED ONE

» Genre: Comedy

» Director: Jake Kasdan

(Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story)

» Cast: The Rock, Chris Evans, Lucy Liu

After Santa Claus (code name: Red One) is kidnapped, the North Pole’s Head of Security teams up with the world’s most infamous bounty hunter in a globe-trotting, actionpacked mission to save Christmas. Their mission immerses them in countless adventures as they uncover a conspiracy that threatens the holiday season. Although they are like oil and water, they learn to work together and face their differences to rescue Santa and ensure the survival of Christmas. e

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

HOT NEW SERIES

SILO S2 (APPLE TV+)

» Genre: Dystopian Science Fiction

» Creator: Graham Yost (Justified)

» Cast: Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, Common

In Season One of Silo, audiences took their first dive into a giant underground silo whose inhabitants believe can protect them from the toxic world on the surface. Season Two will start with a rebellion gone wrong and the hero, Juliette, facing a life-threatening situation. She must make it to another silo, but time is short because her suit is running out of air. Creator, Graham Yost has stated that Season Two will dig deeper into the story and peel back the layers of key characters living in the silo.

BLITZ

S1 (APPLE TV+)

» Genre: War Drama

» Creator: Steve McQueen (Shame)

» Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Harris Dickinson, Benjamin Clémentine

This series follows a group of Londoners during the bombing of the city (known as ‘the Blitz’) in World War II. This event, which took place in 1940, had a profound impact on the city, with the German Luftwaffe dropping around 20,000 bombs.

Saoirse Ronan plays Rita, a distraught mother who frantically searches for her nine-year-old son after sending him to the countryside to evade the devastation of war.

CROSS S1 (PRIME VIDEO)

» Genre: Thriller

» Creator: Ben Watkins (Burn Notice)

» Cast: Aldis Hodge, Jennifer Wigmore, Stacie Greenwell

Cross is a heart-stopping thriller based on the worldwide bestselling Alex Cross book series by James Patterson. Alex Cross is a detective and forensic psychologist, with a unique talent for digging into the psyches of killers and their victims. The series has 32 books, two novellas, and three books centred on Alex’s son Ali. This indicates that if the series is a hit, there is plenty of material to inspire new seasons!

BAD SISTERS S2(APPLE TV+)

» Genre: Comedy

» Creators: Brett Baer (United States of Tara), Dave Finkel (United States of Tara), Sharon Horgan (Pulling)

» Cast: Sharon Horgan, Eve Hewson, Sarah Greene

In this hit dark comedy, five sisters (Eva, Becka, Grace, Ursula, and Bibi) share a loving bond despite having distinct personalities. Season Two commences two years after the ‘accidental death’ of Grace’s abusive husband.

The sisters may be in a much better place, but past truths resurface and suspicions are at an all-time high. Secrets are revealed, lies are told, and the sisters try to work out whom they can trust.

SENNA S1 (NETFLIX)

» Genre: Docudrama

» Creator: Vicente Amorim (Santo)

» Cast: Kaya Scodelario, Gabriel Leone, Matt Mella

This six-part series follows the highs and lows of what many consider to be the best F1 driver of all time: the legend, Ayrton Senna. Senna was known for achieving performances exceeding his cars’ limits, as evidenced by his famous qualifying lap at Monaco in 1988 where he was 1.5 seconds faster than his teammate Alain Prost. His first lap at the 1993 European Grand Prix at Donington Park, where he went from 5th to 1st in treacherous conditions, is considered one of the greatest single laps in F1 history. Discover more about Senna’s unforgettable imprint on F1 racing. e

READING

COSY UP WITH NOVEMBER’S MOST EXCITING NEW ARRIVALS

THE CITY AND ITS UNCERTAIN WALLS

BY

HARUKI MURAKAMI

Haruki Murakami’s first novel in six years visits a surreal town where a dream reader deciphers dreams, and shadows detach from their owners. The novel is a blend of genres: a love story, a quest, and a tribute to books, and in particular, the libraries that house them. Murakami reflects on how truth is not found in stillness, but in constant change, mirroring the essence of storytelling. This theme of movement and transformation underpins the narrative, which flows through layers of imagination and reality. Set in a post-pandemic world, the book becomes a metaphor for these unpredictable times. It is a remarkable achievement, reaffirming Murakami’s place as one of modern literature’s most significant writers.

TO DIE FOR BY DAVID BALDACCI

The 6:20 Man, Travis Devine, is sent to the Pacific Northwest to assist the FBI in a case that quickly spirals into something much bigger. Devine, a former Army Ranger with a Wall Street background, is tasked with escorting 12-year-old Betsy Odom to meet her uncle, who is under investigation. However, as Devine learns more about Betsy’s parents’ mysterious deaths, he uncovers troubling inconsistencies, including the police’s insistence that they died of a drug overdose, something Betsy refuses to believe. As Devine digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy far more complex than expected, involving government agencies and Betsy’s uncle. Meanwhile, Devine’s nemesis — the girl on the train — whom he once narrowly escaped in Switzerland, resurfaces, forcing him to confront both old and new enemies. With trust in short supply, Devine must figure out who his true allies are, knowing they may also be his enemies.

CHER : THE MEMOIR, PART ONE BY CHER

The Memoir by Cher reveals the extraordinary life of the iconic star, told in her own words with honesty and humour. In the first part of this two-part memoir, Cher reflects on her journey from a dyslexic child in chaotic circumstances to global fame. She shares intimate details of her complicated relationship with Sonny Bono, which brought them both success and separation. With a career spanning over 60 years, Cher remains the only woman to top Billboard charts in seven consecutive decades, earning an Academy Award, Grammy, Emmy, and more. Beyond her career, she is also a dedicated activist and philanthropist. In this memoir, Cher offers a candid look at her roles as a daughter, wife, mother, and trailblazing superstar, providing readers a unique glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most enduring icons.

BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE BY AMANDA JENNINGS

In this gripping new thriller, Victoria escapes her troubled home for university life in London, looking for a fresh start. She falls for Nick, who introduces her to an elite circle of friends, exposing her to a privileged lifestyle she had only dreamed of. However, things soon take a dark turn, shattering her new life. Twenty-five years later Victoria is forced to confront her traumatic past at the glamorous wedding of Hollywood star Ingrid Olsson and Julian Draper. Reuniting with Nick and others from her past, old wounds resurface. As secrets unravel and tensions mount, Victoria senses that some people have managed to escape the consequences of their actions for too long. But, in a world where money and power can buy silence, someone may finally face the ultimate reckoning. Dark, tense, and unpredictable, this thriller explores the price of hidden truths.

FIRE BY JOHN BOYNE

In Fire, internationally bestselling author John Boyne delivers a gripping psychological tale that explores whether a single traumatic event can turn someone into a monster. Freya appears to have a perfect life, with wealth, a successful career as a skin graft surgeon, and a luxurious lifestyle. But beneath this polished exterior lies a darker story. Freya’s privileged life is built on a foundation of pain and secrets. As a child, she experienced a cataclysmic event that may have shaped the person she became. Was Freya always destined for cruelty, or did something in her past force it upon her? Through this chilling and visceral narrative, Fire challenges readers to confront the ageold debate of nature versus nurture, taking them deep into the human psyche in search of answers. Boyne masterfully navigates this uncomfortable territory, making for a deeply compelling read. e

REVOLUTIONISES THE MARKET FOR SUSTAINABLE AROMA FOR BEER

Danish startup, EvodiaBio, has raised an investment of €7 million from foreign and Danish investment funds, including EIFO and The March Group. The capital will be used to commercialise and expand a groundbreaking, sustainable method to produce natural aroma that improves the taste of non-alcoholic beer while reducing the use of natural resources and CO2 emissions. Marisa Cutillas reports.

Aroma is the very first sensory impression beer elicits. Think of that moment just before you raise a chilled glass of beer to your lips and detect a whiff of the magic you’re about to taste. This aroma is typically provided by hops,

the hanging flowers of the humulus lupulus plant. This climbing perennial has tiny yellow pods called lupulin within each of its many cones. Lupulin houses resin and essential oils, which boast earthy, warm notes. Unfortunately, there’s a problem with hops production – climate change.

PHOTOGRAPHY EVODIABIO

EVODIABIO

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

A 2023 study found that drought and higher temperatures have led to a decrease in the quantity and quality of hops. In Europe alone, yields for traditional aroma hops will drop between four to 18 per cent over the next few years, while the production of hop acids will fall by 20 to 31 per cent. It’s not just the quantity of hops that is decreasing, but also the quality. As such, beer could become more expensive, since brewers may need to use more hops to deliver the same flavour.

Researchers are currently working to discover

breakthroughs to cope with extreme weather – for it’s not just beer that’s affected by our hotter planet, but also coffee, tea, and grapes for wine. Plants like hops typically grow in a narrow band of latitude and are light-sensitive. They need long days of sunlight while they grow, then a couple of months of colder temperatures and shorter periods of sunlight while they flower and produce the parts needed for brewing beer. Scientists are currently studying the hop genome to understand how it can be adapted to be more resilient under warmer conditions.

NATURAL AND SUSTAINABLE AROMAS THROUGH PRECISION FERMENTATION

Another big breakthrough has been made by Danish company, EvodiaBio. They have devised a method to produce natural aroma in a lab, and recently obtained a €7 million investment to further their work. EvodiaBio’s technology utilises yeast and precision fermentation to produce aromas that create the taste of hops. Currently, the team is centred on enhancing the taste of non-alcoholic beer. ›

The company also aims to create aromas for various beverages and other food products.

Behind the ambitious Danish startup stands a strong board with prominent profiles such as Flemming Besenbacher, former Chairman of Carlsberg, Andreas Fibig, former CEO of IFF, and Anne Cabotin, former SVP at Symrise. “I am pleased that we have now completed an oversubscribed up-round enabling us to continue our journey to make non-alcoholic beer taste great and reinvent the aroma industry by providing new sustainable solutions,” says Jarne Elleholm, Chairman of the Board.

ABOUT EVODIABIO

EvodiaBio, founded just three years ago, is supported by a strong international syndicate of investors. Johan Bitsch Nielsen, Investment Manager, Green Transition, EIFO, states, “We are pleased to support the continued development of the Danish biosolutions ecosystem, which stands strong internationally. We must contribute with risk-tolerant capital so that advanced research from universities can be commercialised and support the green transition spearheaded by EvodiaBio. We see great potential in their

innovative product, which the strong team behind the company can take far, and we are pleased with the support from international investors.”

EvodiaBio’s success, alongside scientific work to boost the resilience of the hops plant, holds great promise for the beer industry and beyond. Both efforts indicate the importance of investing in sustainable breakthroughs that can deliver our favourite products while also lowering carbon footprints.

WWW.EVODIABIO.COM

BECOME SELF SUFFICIENT WITH KUMULUS WATER!

Create Drinking Water From Air

A DROUGHT-PROOF GREEN SOLUTION

Enhance your green credentials with the Kumulus Amphore One, a state-of-the-art, plug’n play device which generates pure water directly from the atmosphere daily!

With no installation required and full CE certification ensuring the highest quality water and safety standards, Kumulus is perfect for homes, hotels, and recreational facilities. Monitor production effortlessly with the LCD screen and Kumulus app for remote connectivity.

Call to book your viewing in Marbella.

For more information Tel: (+34) 951 744 626 info@kumulusmarbella.com www.kumulusmarbella.com

Prepared to be impressed with the architecture and styling of La Querola d’Ordino. Check out the Scalpers & North Sails collaboration for America’s Cup. See tips on how to remain healthy this autumn. What happens to pets when couples split?

« BACK TO CONTENTS

lilifestyle

124 La Querola d’Ordino

134 Scalpers & North Sails Collab for America’s Cup 2024

142 Nail Trends for Autumn

146 Boost Your Immunity in the Autumn Season

148 The Pet Custody Battle

LA QUEROLA D’ORDINO

John Taylor is promoting 27 of the 51 homes in the impressive Querola d’Ordino development, a residential complex in Andorra designed by architect Jean Nouvel (Ateliers Jean Nouvel) that represents the perfect fusion between architecture and nature, offering a unique experience of a lifetime for its residents.

Located in the picturesque town of Ordino in Andorra, awarded the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve seal in 2020, La Querola d’Ordino at an altitude of 1,360 meters stands out for its harmonious integration with the natural environment. Its façade, made up of more than 22,000 pieces of handcrafted stone, and its wooden interiors and oak finishes, reflect the project’s commitment to sustainability and aesthetic beauty. The new development is only minutes from the gondola that accesses the ski domain of Vallnord. ›

THE MATERIALLY PERFECT HOUSE

Each of these residences has spaces designed to offer maximum quality, comfort, and privacy. The facades are built with an aluminium structure covered with slate stone, highly waterproofed and insulated with rock wool to guarantee a class A energy certification. For their part, the Schuco aluminium windows, recognised for their technical advances, and the Forster steel joinery complement the robustness and energy efficiency of the design. ›

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

video

The interiors have been carefully designed combining contemporary and traditional materials, such as oak wood and concrete ceilings. While the kitchens, designed by Jean Nouvel and manufactured by Martinez-Otero, feature cabinets with metallic honeycomb patterns. The bathrooms meanwhile, use materials such as Corian and Krion from Porcelanosa and Italian taps from Gessi. ›

Surrounded by dream landscapes and with truly outstanding views, the properties also have terraces with barbecue installation, gardens with chill out zones, private garages, elevators, and a Family Room, equipped with a fireplace and office area, ideal for multiple uses such as studies, libraries, play areas, or home theatres. The penthouses stand out with ceilings between three and five metres high, irregular shapes, and open skylights.

COMMON AREAS DESIGNED IN DETAIL

The residential complex excels for its extensive communal areas, such as a Spa-Wellness zone with water features, relaxation area, sauna, hammam, massage room, fitness room, and a semioutdoor Jacuzzi. In addition, it offers outdoor seating areas,

a solarium, and a bathing lake, all set against stunning views of the valley. The complex also has a concierge and reception service, as well as lounges and other interior spaces for the exclusive use of residents. The surprising viewpoint over the interior lake stands out, crowned by a large crater of light.

One of the main objectives of the project is its integration into the existing natural environment. Its design includes a meticulous landscaping project that merges with the surroundings, incorporating bushes, flora, trees, stones and rocks, as well as high mountain aquatic landscapes. ›

MULTI-AWARD WINNING

Each home is characterised by interior finishes of a level not previously seen, with extreme attention to detail in each of its features, providing an experience of unparalleled luxury and sophistication. It is not surprising that the project has received eight International Awards to date. In January 2022, it was awarded Best Engineering Project in a Luxury Residential Complex thanks to its innovative air conditioning system using geothermal energy. In 2023, it received multiple awards

from the European Property Awards, including Best Residential Project, Best Sustainable Project, and Best Architecture Project in Andorra.

The homes, marketed by John Taylor, vary in size between 254m2 and 612m2 and are available for prices ranging from €1.97M for units with two suites, to €5.97M for those with five suites.

Without a doubt, Querola d’Orino is a masterpiece of architecture and design that redefines luxury and sustainability in the heart of Andorra.

ABOUT JOHN TAYLOR FOUNDED IN 1864 BY YOUNG BRITISH GARDENER, JOHN TAYLOR, THE LEADING FRENCH REAL ESTATE AGENCY OFFERS PRODUCTS AND SERVICES BASED ON PERSONALISATION. BASED IN MONACO, IT HAS EXCLUSIVE HOMES IN UNIQUE LOCATIONS, AN INTERNATIONAL NETWORK OF INVESTORS, AND THE EXPERTISE OF REAL ESTATE CONSULTANTS.

WWW.JOHN-TAYLOR.COM

NAIL TRENDS FOR AUTUMN 2024

TRANSLUCENT EVERYTHING

The Autumn season is characteristically accompanied by darker, more sensual hues in nails and make-up. This year, however, there are a few surprises, with a few metallic and nature-inspired shades holding sway. Marisa Cutilllas brings you some of the very best.

Have you seen the latest manicures in semitransparent red, brown, or nude yet? If you’d like to try it at home we recommend Vishine’s gelpolish in Sheer Nude.

GOLDEN SHINE

You don’t need to wait until the holiday season to add a bit of shine to your manicure. For this look, we recommend Rimmel’s 60 Seconds Super Shine in the tone 831 Oh My Gold!

Matte nails in nude, brown, and green have paid homage to nature in many Big 4 Fashion Week catwalks. Our pick is Dior’s nude-hued 614 Jungle Matte, though you can also give any polish a matte effect with O.P.I.’s Matte Top Coat.

BOLD BURGUNDY

RAVISHING RED

Ferrari red is always in style in the cooler months. One of the longest-lasting and shiniest shades is Essie’s Forever Yummy.

AUTUMN FLOWERS

Spring may have been and gone but flowers are still blooming this season. As a base, we recommend one of the best black shades of all time: O.P.I.’s Infinite Shine 2 in Black Onyx.

This shade always comes out to play in the Autumn season. Made popular by the character of Mia in Pulp Fiction, it blends glamour and vampiness in one sexy shade. One of its most classic iterations is Chanel’s Le Vernis in tone 155 Rouge Noir.

Transforming Vision

WITH FEMTO-LASER ASSISTED CATARACT

SURGERY AND REFRACTIVE SURGERY

Laser cataract surgery and refractive surgery are two of the most significant advancements in ophthalmology, offering patients remarkable options for restoring and enhancing vision. Laser cataract surgery utilises advanced femtosecond laser technology to break up the cloudy lens with precision, leading to a more efficient and less invasive procedure. This technique reduces the need for manual incisions and allows for improved accuracy in lens placement, resulting in faster recovery times and better visual outcomes. Patients can expect a smoother experience, often returning to their daily activities within a shorter period.

In addition to cataract surgery, refractive surgery provides a solution for common vision issues such

as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia (tired eyesight). Utilising laser technologies like LASIK and PRK and advanced intraocular lenses, these procedures reshape the cornea to correct refractive errors, minimising or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Dr. Nabil and his experienced team are leading experts in this field. With a focus on personalised care, eye specialists at Oftalma assess each patient’s unique needs to determine the most suitable treatment option, ensuring optimal results. Together, laser cataract and refractive surgeries represent a leap forward in vision correction, empowering patients to enjoy a clearer, brighter world.

TEL: (+34) 683 275 883 WhatsApp only

Our advanced laser unit, conveniently located within Marbella’s Quirónsalud Hospital premises, complements our multidisciplinary approach, enabling clients to undergo all necessary tests and evaluations in a single day for prompt diagnosis and treatment planning.

WORDS

MARISA CUTILLAS PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK

BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY

IN THE AUTUMN SEASON!

The peak season for colds and flus is October through March, with some viruses (including COVID) being particularly easy to catch in the coldest months of the year because people spend more time indoors. If you are 60 or over, Andalucía is currently carrying out its flu and COVID

campaigns, which you can ask about at your local Centro de Salud. You can do plenty to boost your immunity through your lifestyle choices, too. Below are just a few strategies for keeping illness at bay.

EMBRACE THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET

Harvard academics point out that superfoods, vitamin drips, and other new approaches to immunity may be growing in popularity, but they are still not endorsed by official government health authorities. In fact, the same things that are good for your overall health including your diet are also good for optimal immune function. The Mediterranean diet is as good as it gets if you follow an omnivore diet.

What’s more, it’s easy to follow as it comprises lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, nuts and legumes, and Omega-3 fats like cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil.

HIGH-ANTIOXIDANT AND IMMUNE-STRENGTHENING FOODS

Within the Mediterranean diet, some foods are particularly high in antioxidants, including berries and citrus fruits. Broccoli, meanwhile, is rich in sulforaphane – a chemical that switches on antioxidant genes and enzymes in some immune cells. Many journals and sites are currently recommending blood oranges, which contain five times the antioxidant activity of regular oranges with the same amount of Vitamin C. Yet another food to stock in your fridge this season is Greek yoghurt. One meta-analysis found that those who consumed probiotics daily had a lower risk of catching colds. Other foods that are positively associated with a strong immune system are Brazil nuts, ginger, shallots, dark chocolate, kiwi, and oregano.

STAYING ACTIVE

Physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and

airways, thus reducing your chance of catching a cold or other illness. Studies have clearly shown that there is a clear inverse relationship between moderate exercise training and illness risk. Working out induces small elevations in IL-6, an immune protein that exerts direct anti-inflammatory effects and improves glucose and lipid metabolism. It also lowers the number of exhausted T-cells (the cells that help protect the body from infection and may help fight cancer) and increases their ability to proliferate. It helps the body respond well to bacteria and produces longer leukocyte telomere length (which is linked to a longer lifespan). Exercise also results in greater NK cell cytotoxic activity (in other words, it helps killer cells target and eliminate aberrant cells, such as virally infected and tumourforming cells).

HOW MUCH EXERCISE IS ENOUGH?

Most government bodies suggest that you should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week or at least 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week (or a combination of both). Aim to spread your workouts over a few days in a week.

KEEPING STRESS AT BAY

Stress can literally make people sick and one lab study suggests that gut bacteria may be to blame. When the brain is stressed, it directly shuts down specific glands in the gut, thus affecting healthful bacteria and the body’s broader immune system. Fight stress proactively and daily through activities such as exercise, mindfulness meditation, yoga, and spending time in nature. The next time you’re feeling worried or anxious, try this simple ‘box breathing’ exercise: Inhale to the count of four, maintain the air in your lungs for four seconds, breathe out to the count of four, and pause for four seconds. Repeat this various times until you feel relaxed.

COMMONSENSE STRATEGIES

Finally, adopt tried-and-tested methods to preserve your health. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and wash your hands often to avoid catching colds and flus. Remember that a large percentage of bacteria and viruses are passed through items like clothes, surfaces, door handles, and similar. Germs can make their way to these surfaces not only by touch but also when people cough without covering their mouths. e

WHO GETS CUSTODY

OF YOUR PETS IN A DIVORCE OR SEPARATION?

Divorce or separation is one of the most stressful life events people can live through. And when you have beloved pets together, the issue of custody can be even more significant than who gets the car or who gets to keep a treasured vinyl collection. In 2022, the law in Spain changed for the better regarding animal rights. Pets are now considered

sentient beings that can no longer be seized, abandoned, mortgaged, mistreated, or taken from one of their owners in the case of separation or divorce. Appropriate modifications were made to three pieces of legislation: the Civil Code, the Mortgage Act, and the Civil Procedural Act, all of which

work to improve pet custody rights. In case you were wondering what pets have to do with mortgages, the Spanish Mortgage Act now excludes pets from forming part of a mortgage. The Civil Procedural Act, meanwhile, prevents them from being seized to cover outstanding debts.

WORDS MARISA CUTILLAS

Pets can also be included in wills. As such, if you have various children and one shows an interest in caring for your pet, it is a good idea to stipulate this in your will. Otherwise, the pet will be handed to inheritors, who can decide who takes the pet or how caregiving duties are divided.

WHEN BOTH PARTIES AGREE

If both parties agree regarding custody, their lawyers can draft an agreement (convenio regulador) stipulating their wishes. This agreement should indicate where the pet will live, how much time should be spent with each party, and how costs will be divided. Once the agreement is drafted, it can be presented to a judge for legal ratification and approval.

WHEN PARTIES DISAGREE

If parties are in disagreement, then they can ask the court to regulate the custody of the pet. Each party can present documents indicating their wishes, backing these up with good arguments. The judge then makes a decision that must be complied with. In coming to their decision, judges usually take the

following matters into account:

» Who is the legal owner of the pet

» Who is the real caregiver of the animal

» Who has more time to care for the pet

» Who has the best circumstances to be a pet owner (for instance, who has a home that is best suited to a pet’s needs)

» If there are children, which parent has custody of them

Note that because children have a powerful bond with their pets, courts often opt for a significant overlap between child and pet custody arrangements.

With respect to costs, court orders may vary. For instance, a judge may deem that necessary veterinarian costs and/or pet insurance be covered equally by both parties, but that clothing and grooming be paid for as each party wishes. The judge takes into account the economic situation of each party when coming to a decision.

Judges also have the power

to modify an animal’s conditions of care if necessary. They can decide if custody should be shared at all, or if the pet would be better off with just one owner. They can also limit parental access to their children if one parent mistreats their pet as a form of vicarious or gender violence.

A judge’s order can be modified judicially or via an agreement between co-owners of the pet if the needs of their children or pets change. For instance, if a pet becomes ill and needs treatment every few hours, partners (or the court) may deem it better for the pet be with a partner who has more hours during the day to be a caregiver. This agreement or order can again be modified if a pet improves and no longer requires intensive treatment.

The legal modifications have done plenty to ensure that our furry friends’ best interests count when divorce breaks pre-existing bonds. For many, these modifications were long overdue! e

Imagine enjoying the latest comforts and amenities offered by Amaranta Living Casares Golf. Gain an insight into the business of specialist insurance with Op de Beeck & Worth.

Line up a visit to this month’s Simed Mediterranean Real Estate Exhibition.

eenterprise

AMARANTA LIVING CASARES GOLF

New developments just keep getting more refined these days, and Amaranta Living, front line to the Casares golf course is a fine example. A panoramic setting overlooking nature, golf, and the sea completes the modern design and the latest comforts and amenities of this stylish new complex of 74 apartments and 17 penthouses.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EXXACON SMART LIVING

Ranging from around 100m2 to almost 250m2 in size, the two and threebedroom apartments and penthouses that make up Amaranta Living offer a sense of floating mid-air among spectacular views of the surrounding mountain and valley scenery, green fairways, and of course the blue of the sky and Mediterranean Sea that form the focal point of everyday life here.

FreshcontemporaryMediterraneanarchitecture

In what has become a soughtafter luxury location among investors and end-users alike, Casares Golf is tucked into a hillside curve near the Finca Cortesín resort and country club that adds such lustre to this new upmarket location between Sotogrande and Estepona. For residents of Amaranta Living, the fine dining, spa, beach club, and elegant ambience of this five-star deluxe resort are just a short distance away, and it finds itself situated between two golf courses that add bright greenery to the local scenery of hills and mountains. Nature is all around you here, with the sea a few minutes distant and the likes of Sotogrande, Casares village, and Estepona your local reference points.

“This development, which offers so much open space, fresh sea breezes and spectacular views, not to mention luxury amenities and excellent value, has been discovered by international buyers and investors,” says Juan Jesús Martínez, Commercial Director and Head of Sales & Marketing of Exxacon Smart Living, one of the key developers in this area and other parts of the Costa del Sol – and also the creators of Amaranta Living. ›

“The word ‘living’ has entered our corporate identity and our project descriptions because it now forms a central part of our design and development ethos. Gone are the days when you simply built an apartment complex to more or less standard configurations. Today we focus on creating a living environment, not just properties, and this is reflected in everything from the orientation and interior/ exterior flow to the architecture, amenities, communal spaces, and the overall lifestyle being offered.”

A GOLF-SIDE, SEASIDE COMMUNITY

Amaranta Living is therefore designed as a community, with more than just stylish modern apartments and penthouses. The complex has a social hub with two large swimming pools, a gym with changing rooms, a gourmet room, barbecue area, and

golf simulator. Several of these facilities are guaranteed to become a meeting place for residents, and it all takes place within a setting where you’re always accompanied by those sea, golf, and country views. “The setting right on the Casares golf course means you have all that greenery right in front of you,” says Juan Jesús, “with the Cortesín estate three minutes away, the beach five, and the western part of the Costa del Sol, including Marbella, within a half-hour drive.”

The architectural styling is modern Mediterranean, with sleek white Andalusian tones offsetting the blues and greens of the surroundings.

“We’ve designed spacious interiors with an open-plan distribution and quality modern finishes such as wood and ceramics, contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, as well as large terraces that make the most of those views.” Particularly impressive

are the penthouse rooftop terraces, which can measure up to 125m2 and incorporate outdoor lounging, dining, and sunbathing areas, as well as an attractive optional hot tub that looks out over this entire section of the coast, with Africa and Gibraltar close up. It’s quite the setting to spend an evening relaxing and entertaining as the sun sets behind Gibraltar. ›

“Our intention was to create homes that feel comfortable and welcoming as well as stylish and sophisticated, and above all to create a sense of lifestyle, the ability to create true quality of life in a beautiful setting,” says Juan Jesús. A sustainable approach to development is now an intrinsic part of the company’s philosophy, and at Amaranta Living reaches its high point to date, with energy and water-efficient systems throughout ensuring low consumption and a high level of comfort, while the abundant planting of gardens and terraces uses indigenous, drought-resistant species that are adapted to the local climate and conditions requiring less maintenance and irrigation.

“These are just some of a long list of procedures we now follow in all our projects, and thanks to modern technology and evolving practices, it’s expanding all the time.” For this reason, the new community that seems to float among its spectacular views and setting alongside the Casares

golf course is ‘green’ for more reasons than its surroundings alone. “Amaranta Living is a stylish new addition to an area that is fast becoming one of the new references of luxury and lifestyle on the Costa del Sol.”

C. CASARES GOLF GARDEN, 57, CASARES

TEL: (+34) 722 780 555

AMARANTALIVING@EXXACON.ES

WWW.EXXACON.ES/PROMOCION/AMARANTALIVING-CASARES-GOLF

WWW.TUSCANYGROUP.ES/EN/AMARANTA-LIVINGCASARES-GOLF

Outdoor lounging and dining Living with inspiring views

AMARANTA LIVING

Danni Worth – cofounder and CEO of the company

OP DE BEECK & WORTH EXCEEDING YOUR EXPECTATIONS

For people across the coast, from businesses and resorts to private and high net worth clients, Danni Worth has been the person to entrust insurance requirements to for over 30 years.

WORDS MICHEL CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

As one of the founding partners of Op de Beeck & Worth, he runs a company that has built up a name as a leader in the field of expat insurance, with a client base that extends well beyond the Costa del Sol to include all regions of Spain. “Since the core of our clients consists of foreign residents, business persons, investors and property owners, our main areas of activity are along the coastal regions and the major cities,” says Danni, who insures across a wide spectrum to include businesses and private assets that can vary greatly in value and nature.

“I’ve been in the business for over 35 years and first started as a Lloyds broker in the early eighties before moving to Marbella and becoming

specialised in providing suitable insurance for foreign residents and entrepreneurs.”

Fully bilingual, he has become a broker of reference in his chosen segment, and this draws not only private clients from a broad range of nationalities but also diverse businesses.

“We insure hotels, yacht harbours, golf clubs, offices and commercial centres, residential urbanisations, private businesses, and also property developers and constructors,” says Danni. “Many of these are specialised areas and require specific know-how, but to this list you can add M&A Insurances as well as the advanced payments insurance that developers have to provide for off-plan property buyers, and other rather unique, one-off situations.”

Not everyone has the experience, contacts, and

standing with the right kind of insurers to pull this off, but Danni and his multilingual team do just that, consistently finding the best option for each situation. “Op de Beeck & Worth was created almost twenty years ago through a merger with Patrick Op de Beeck, another highly specialised and respected broker who started in the business in 1977.”

Their focus was clear: finding bespoke solutions for the private and corporate expat market in Spain with a commitment to service and desire to exceed their clients expectations.

“Perhaps the fastest growing segment within our business is the luxury market,” says Danni. “High Net Worth clients now make up an increasingly important part of our client base, and Op de Beeck & Worth are considered leaders in this specialised market.” ›

SPECIAL HNW SERVICES

“In our experience HNW clients require insurance solutions and an approach that are more dynamic and flexible than the mass market insurers are able to offer. These clients will invariably have high value homes and contents to insure, and in many circumstances will require specific cover for artwork, jewellery, watches, wine collections, etc. There are specialised brokers and insurers who operate in this market and fully understand the requirements of these clients in terms of coverage, flexibility, and above all levels of service. The role of the broker with this type of client is similar to that of the private banker, and this is apparent in the personalised

service and attention to detail.”

Aside from the far broader insurance cover that this approach affords the client, they also benefit from a risk inspection visit by an expert who will advise on getting the sums insured right, and on general risk management tips, ranging from intruder and fire detection advice through to flood avoidance tips.

However, what really sets this specialist high net worth insurance market apart is the way in which claims are dealt with. The broker and insurer truly put themselves in the shoes of the client and do everything possible to reach a speedy and satisfactory end to the claim. “We use specialist loss adjusters who understand this market and the very high values involved as

well as having the ability to be discreet. Our experience is that over 90 per cent of clients who have a claim under this type of policy would not hesitate to recommend the policy to a friend or family member.”

Op de Beeck & Worth are considered one of Spain’s top three High Net Worth Brokers, and also have a firm and longstanding commitment to local charities such as Niños Mariposa (Debra) and Aloha Cares.

CENTRO COM. GUADALMINA IV, LOCALES 97-98, GUADALMINA, SAN PEDRO DE ALCÁNTARA

TEL: (+34) 952 882 273

INFO@OPDEBEECK-WORTH.COM

WWW.OPDEBEECK-WORTH.COM

The multilingual team of Op de Beeck & Worth

SIMED IN MÁLAGA THIS MONTH

Simed will host its 20th edition in November with more professional activities and a wide-ranging offer for individual buyers.

Simed, Mediterranean Real Estate Exhibition, returns to FYCMA (Trade Fair and Congress Centre of Málaga) from 7 – 9 November.

Now in its 20th edition, this real estate salon is returning as a strategic ally of the sector, working with estate agents and public

administrations to create a trade fair specialising in second homes and real estate investment.

Positioned as one of the sector’s most important events in Spain, specialising in second homes and property investment, the exhibition will gather the country’s leading property developers and real estate agents with a high-quality offer.

VISITESSENTIALMAGA

Simed offers private buyers and investors access to various options when looking for a first or second home, a holiday apartment, or an investment property among the largest selection of residential real estate gathered in a single space. It also provides financing options and advice on the purchasing or rental process to help with decision-making.

INVESTMENT PROPERTIES

Simed creates a space for analysis of lifestyle trends and new investment opportunities in the residential sector. The exhibition is also attracting increasing interest from different types of Spanish and international investors – over

200 in 2023 – with options for investing in the construction and development of first homes, tourist residences, and multifamily formulas, among others.

The event specialises in the residential sector with the largest offer located on and around the Mediterranean coast, which will include direct sale opportunities in new-build and second-hand properties in the salon itself. In 2023, for example, properties were available from over 70 municipalities in Spain.

This subject area will include activities like the secondhand home promotion forum ‘Prime Homes Summit’, the Meeting Point co-organised

with the Provincial Builders and Developers Association (ACP Málaga), and the ‘2nd Forum on Opportunities and Trends in Residential Tourism’.

PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS

This event is well-established as a meeting place where public administrations and the private sector come together to find potential synergies with developers, builders, and investors, and discuss the challenges and opportunities of partnership. In 2023, Simed attracted over 380 government representatives at the national, regional, and local levels.

The offers at Simed include land programmes, and

lines of urban and property development promoted by public admnistrations at these three levels. It also promotes formulas to facilitate housing development through pioneering specialist meetings such as the ‘2nd Public-Private Partnership for Investment Forum’, a unique event at the national level to encourage collaboration between government and the private sector as an economic catalyst, while also offering solutions for the challenges facing the housing sector.

Other activities fostering public-private partnerships are the ‘International Meeting of

Public Housing Developers and Managers in the Mediterranean Axis’, organised by Malaga’s Municipal Housing Institute, the Spanish Social Housing Association (AVS), and the international agent Housing Europe.

INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

Simed also spotlights sustainable and industrialised construction with solutions provided by PropTech companies, such as ‘The House of the Future’, a forum exploring such vital subjects as artificial intelligence applied to the

sector, the circular economy, new methodologies in processes, etc. Other activities in the forum are aimed at startups, such as ‘Simed Innova’ and the ‘Open Call for PropTech Startups’, where new Spanish and international companies can present their initiatives to the ecosystem of investors, experts, and innovation directors in the real estate sector.

Simed is organised by FYCMA, part of Málaga City Council, in partnership with APCE, FADECO Promotores, and ACP Málaga.

bbusiness news

COMPILED BY MARISA CUTILLAS

NVOGA Launches ARUNA and NUBAY Developments

NVOGA is proud to present two of its latest developments: ARUNA (in Marbella) and NUBAY (in Manilva). ARUNA is an exclusive boutique development comprising 12 (three- and fourbedroom) apartments and penthouses. It is a gated, private urbanisation with green zones, two saltwater pools, private pools, an exclusive gym-sauna, and co-working spaces. NUBAY is made of 66 exclusive two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments (all with spacious terraces and spectacular views of the Mediterranean) and five stunning villas, also with a host of attractive features such as landscaping, large terraces, optional private pools, and more. Like ARUNA, NUBAY is a gated community with a guardhouse and an advanced 24hour video surveillance system.

WWW.NVOGA.COM

Porcelanosa Marbella Reopens with Tamara Falcó as Guest of Honour

Porcelanosa Marbella celebrated the grand reopening of its newly redesigned showroom, a spacious 1,400 m² venue that showcases a wide range of construction and design solutions. The event brought together renowned personalities from the worlds of architecture, politics, and design. Tamara Falcó delighted attendees by preparing a dessert live, adding a unique touch to the festivities. The showroom, inspired by the concept of design-focused spaces, offers a sophisticated blend of residential and commercial environments. This opening reflects Porcelanosa's ongoing commitment to innovation, quality, and a deep understanding of contemporary design needs. WWW.PORCELANOSA.COM

RH Privé Presents CARAT 3 at Trocadero Benalmádena

RH Privé, a leading eco-luxury housing developer on the Costa del Sol, held a presentation at Trocadero in Benalmádena. The event, attended by over 300 people, was a moment to celebrate past achievements, toast to the future, and introduce the developer's new project, CARAT 3 – a development where luxury, sustainability, technology, leisure, calm, and wellness abide. Over the past few months, RH Privé has achieved numerous goals, including the sale and delivery of 76 Seaviews Reserve homes and five Península Villas, in addition to the complete sale of Pine Valley 1, Pine Valley 2, and other properties.

WWW.RHPRIVEESTATES.COM

Marifé Núñez Presents Her Latest Exhibition at the El Fuerte Hotel

Córdoba-born painter, Marifé Nuñez, who founded the Es Arte Gallery at the five-star El Fuerte Marbella Hotel, will be uniting her two passions (artist and gallerist) at one of her most personal exhibitions. The exhibition, which can be viewed until the end of November, comprises five pieces from the series The Beauty of the Fleeting and the Comfort of Memory and the selfportrait, The Empty Space. Through these works, Núñez not only pays tribute to her mother, who passed away this year, but also honours an entire generation of resilient women who experienced the passage of time with serenity, love, and acceptance.

WWW.ELFUERTEMARBELLA.COM

Pedro Peña Presents The Key to Distinction

The Key to Distinction, an event organised by Pedro Peña Interior Design alongside Illusion, highlighted the value of merging innovation and design in the high-end housing sector. The event brought together over 100 professionals from the architecture and real estate development sectors, and officially inaugurated Pedro Peña Interior Design’s new showroom. During the event, key participants revealed that Generation Z has driven a 25 per cent increase in demand for innovation and design in luxury properties on the Coast. Properties that invest in this synergy see an increase in their ROI of up to 35 per cent.

WWW.PEDROPENA.COM

Vithas Receives Recognition at the Best Spanish Hospital Awards

For the sixth consecutive year, Vithas has been deemed the most awarded hospital group at the Best Spanish Hospital Awards (BSH), receiving a total of five awards and 10 finalist diplomas. Organised by the healthcare consultancy Higia Benchmarking, the BSH Awards evaluate 3,000 objective indicators of care quality, appropriateness, efficiency, and special indicators, applied as appropriate to each of the 110 clinical processes identified for each centre. Dr. David Baulenas, Corporate Care Director at Vithas, highlighted “the tireless work” of the group’s doctors, nurses, and 12,600 professionals.

WWW.VITHAS.ES

Women Who Change the World

The second edition of Women Who Change the World (Mujeres que Cambian el Mundo) took place at the Edgar Neville Auditorium of the Málaga Provincial Council. The event, organised by Mujeres a Seguir in collaboration with the Fundación Unicaja, focused on 30 women who are paving the way for others in industries such as education, technology, entrepreneurship, politics, and social organisations. It featured a host of round table talks and discussions on topics such as technological innovation and social justice.

WWW.MUJERESASEGUIR.COM

The Sociedad Económica de Amigos del País Celebrates the Málaga Wine Brand

The Sociedad Económica de Amigos del País recently hosted an exhibition entitled Cien Años en la Boca de Todos (100 Years on Everyone’s Lips), which was centred on three Designations of Origin: Málaga, Sierras de Málaga, and Pasas de Málaga. The exhibition, sponsored by Fundación Unicaja, offered a journey through the wine legacy of Málaga province. Gemma del Corral, Provincial Delegate of the Ministry of Culture and Sport of the Andalusian government, explained that the Málaga wine and raisin industry has been a powerful force for centuries owing to the collective effort of key businesses and institutions.

WWW.SEAPMALAGA.ES

The Costa del Sol Afrofestival is a Big Hit

More than 1,000 people from over 30 countries attended the ninth edition of the Costa del Sol Afrofestival – an event organised by AfroExperiences and featuring African dance, culture, and well-being. It took place at the Hotel Amaragua in Torremolinos and entertained guests with activities such as dance classes with renowned international teachers, live performances, and yoga sessions at the AfroWellness zone. Attendees also learned more about Kizomba, Semba, Afrobeat and other genres of music and dance.

WWW.AFROEXPERIENCES.COM

Insparya Opens a New Clinic in Málaga

Insparya Málaga, the renowned hair treatment company cofounded by Cristiano Ronaldo, is proud to announce that it has opened a brand-new clinic in the heart of Málaga, on Plaza de la Solidaridad. The new space boasts six treatment rooms for hair transplants and two rooms for advanced hair treatments. Patients can opt for a host of treatments, including Active Plasma Insparya, which delays the deterioration of follicular unit cells through platelets obtained from the patient’s blood. Insparya is home to four clinics, with three others located in Barcelona, Bilbao, and Valencia.

WWW.INSPARYA.ES

Swimming Success for Students from the Sotogrande International School

Students from the Sotogrande International School represented their school with confidence at the recent EIC swimming Gala. The school attained over 70 gold medals, a record number of first places and its highest points total ever. Special mention is due to the 38 race winners in the Backstroke, Breaststroke, Butterfly, and Front Crawl categories. Many set new school and competition records.

WWW.SIS.AC

Casino Marbella Supports Debra

Casino Marbella has been supporting butterfly skin charity, DEBRA, for six years. This year, it sponsored DEBRA’s annual golf event, which featured a golf tournament and charity gala. An impressive total of €44.965 was raised, which will help fund the hiring of a specialised nurse and numerous research projects. Butterfly skin (epidermolysis bullosa) is a rare genetic disease that provokes extreme fragility in the skin and mucous membranes. DEBRA works tirelessly to support children with this disease and their families.

WWW.CASINOMARBELLA.COM

Clínica Estética Dra. Matas Presents Latest Medical Treatments

Clínica Estética Dra. Matas, a clinic offering personalised treatments, top-brand products, and pioneering techniques, recently held an event to introduce innovative medical treatments to a group of women. At her Golden Mile Clinic, Dra. Matas offers the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine and plastic surgery for the body and face, based on a personalised medical diagnosis. Her motto, ‘Beauty in Harmony By Excellence’, reveals how she combines cutting-edge medical techniques with innovative procedures and top-tier products, delivering a tailored approach that enhances and nurtures natural beauty. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to provide exceptional care, ensuring a radiant, healthy glow from within.

WWW.DOCTORAMATAS.COM

Avalon Renovables and Foresight Present an Innovative Biofuel Plant in Jaén

Avalon Renovables and Foresight Energy Infrastructure Partners 1 (FEIP 1) presented their 100 per cent green biofuel production plant in Martos (Jaén). The plant, which received an investment of €100 million during its construction phase, offers an innovative and sustainable solution for the olive oil industry. The event was attended by prominent figures from the olive oil sector, authorities from Andalucía, and the Spanish government. The project will create around 200 direct jobs during the construction phase and over 40 during its operation, which is estimated to last for 25 years. WWW.AVALONRENOVABLES.COM

Artelier 21 Launches at the Puerto Deportivo de Estepona

The Puerto Deportivo de Estepona is home to a brand-new creative and artistic space: Artelier 21. Founded by the artist and Director of the agency Al Aire Libra, Marta Bernad, it aims to be an epicentre of creativity and a meeting point for lovers of art. It offers an original programme with classes, workshops, exhibitions, and masterclasses. Bernad, a Zaragoza native based in Estepona, highlights that this is her most personal and important project yet. With the creation of Artelier 21, she combines her two great passions: art and connecting with people.

WWW.ARTELIER21.COM

A Comprehensive Guide for Communities and Property Owners in Spain

José Luis Navarro Rosado, a seasoned lawyer and Property Administrator, has condensed his 30 years of experience into a practical guide, essential for anyone involved in managing communities. This book is particularly valuable for presidents and board members but is accessible to anyone interested in understanding and navigating the complex regulations governing this field. Having gone through multiple Spanish editions over the years, this updated, in-depth yet very readable version is now available in English, both on Amazon in paperback and as an e-book on Kindle.

WWW.INTERCALA.COM

Marbella 4 Days Walking 2024 a Resounding

The 13th edition of Marbella 4 Days Walking enjoyed tremendous success. With no fewer than 12 walking routes, two new Challenge Routes, and over 2,500 participants from 17 different countries, the event is a major attraction for sports enthusiasts and tourists. What began in 2011 as a small gathering of friends to explore the region’s routes has blossomed into an international movement. This year, experienced walkers were especially thrilled to take part in the new Marbella 2 Days Challenge, which led them from Plaza del Mar in Marbella to Ojén through the mountains and valleys of the region.

WWW.MARBELLA4DAYSWALKING.COM

Grupo Fidelitas & Company Presents Art and Finance Event

Grupo Fidelitas & Company, a multinational business conglomerate with nearly three decades of experience in the financial sector, recently organised the event Art and Finance: New Opportunities to Diversify Your Investment, through Fidelitas ARTe – an art fintech company specialising in the democratisation and financial professionalisation of art. The event, held at the Palacio de Exposiciones y Congresos in Marbella, brought together artists, investors, and entrepreneurs. It showcased innovative, profitable art that can serve to diversify investments. Fidelitas ARTe has over 300 artists in its portfolio, with works selling from €1.500 to €350million.

Rotary Club Marbella-Guadalmina Holds Charity Golf Tournament (S)

The Rotary Club Marbella-Guadalmina is organising The President's Charity Golf Cup, which will be held at the Los Flamingos Golf Course at Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, Benahavís on Monday, December 2. The 18hole, 5,700m2, par-71 layout, designed by the architect, Antonio Garrido, is characterised by its careful landscaping, which features numerous tree species and beautiful views of the Mediterranean. The event aims to raise funds for AFESOL – a non-profit association founded in September 1999 and made up of people with mental illness and their supportive relatives. Players will be offered a shared buggy, free parking, and wine and tapas at the prize-giving reception.

WWW.MARBELLA-GUADALMINA-ROTARY.CLUB

NASA Space Apps Challenge: The Biggest Hackathon in the World Returns to Spain

The NASA Space Apps Challenge, considered the biggest hackathon in the world, once again ignited the imaginations of people across the globe. Competitors faced 21 challenges posed by NASA, including designing galactic games and creating a web application that demonstrates objects that are close to the Earth. The event took place simultaneously in seven cities in Spain (Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Sevilla, Málaga, León, y Gijón) and over 185 additional countries. Some 600 participants from Spain took part in the challenge – a larger number than any other country in Europe. The event was organised in Spain by SpaceApps.

Retired English Barrister Launches Business Butler in Málaga

Retired English lawyer Richard Szrabe (barrister, Middle Temple, 1982-2009) commiserates with anyone who has to hire a lawyer or is struggling with a situation and has no source of support. He has therefore invented a new profession: that of business butler. Richard specialises in helping people with inheritance disputes and keeping an eye on the bad behaviour of insurance companies. He also has a consultancy specialising in inheritance crime and is interested in supervising work done by lawyers. He claims the title of ‘Billion-Dollar Lawyer/Author’ for having given advice to American corporate Lloyd's policyholders. “Until now, the role of hand-holder did not exist. Now it does.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, WWW.MRRIGOROUS.PRO

Palm Sporting Club

Palm Sporting Club, launched as an ‘ultimate wellness destination’, is a new studio offering a variety of fitness classes, including the revolutionary Lagree method, loved by Hollywood celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Sofía Vergara. Lagree is a high-intensity, low-impact workout on a piece of equipment called the Megaformer – which strengthens and tones the entire body. Staff also provide mat Pilates and yoga classes for a balanced approach to fitness. After working out, visitors can enjoy a nutritious meal or freshly made juice at the health food restaurant.

WWW.PALMSPORTINGCLUB.COM

Dr. Carl H. June Wins Prestigious Prize from the HM Hospitales Research Foundation

Dr. Carl H. June, a renowned American immunologist and the creator of the CAR-T therapy against cancer, was recently deemed the winner of the fourth edition of the Abarca Prize, awarded by the HM Hospitales Research Foundation. The treatment is currently being used to treat malignant haematological neoplasms, and it has paved the way for clinical research in many other types of cancer and non-oncological diseases. In 2017, the FDA approved the world's first CAR-T cell treatment, marking one of the most significant medical breakthroughs of our time. Scientists have compared it to the development of antibiotics, chemotherapy, or genetic research.

WWW.HMHOSPITALES.COM

Fuertes y Hermosas Doubles Its Audience Attendance on its 10th Anniversary

Fuertes y Hermosas, a beauty-centred charity event in Málaga, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and raised over €10.000 for the Hermanas Adoratrices – a charity that fights against violence towards women. The event comprised an ‘outdoor beauty salon’ at Malaga’s Plaza de la Constitución. Attendees received a host of beauty treatments, hairstyling and barber services, and more.

FACEBOOK: #FUERTESYHERMOSAS

OCEAN CLUB BLACK & WHITE CLOSING PARTY

OOcean Club capped another fabulous and memorable summer season with their traditional Closing Party, this time with a black & white dress theme. Hundreds of revellers attended the event and danced and partied with international bands and live entertainment, culminating with an enthralling fireworks display.

WWW.OCEANCLUB.ES

PHOTOGRAPHY PEDRO JAÉN

CLASSIC CAR RALLY

CThe Classic & Sportscar Club Spain congregated for their 200th one-day car run on a lovely sunny Sunday, with a host of impressive vehicles on display. Starting from Marbella Golf & Country Club, the participants drove for several hours in the countryside before reconvening for lunch at the Geranium Restaurante in La Cala de Mijas.

WWW.CSCCANDALUCIA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

MAKING IT IN MARBELLA

MCelebrating the launch of Making It in Marbella on the Netflix platform, which depicts the agents of Homerun Brokers in action, a large contingent of glitterati converged on Florentine restaurant at the new Forum centre on Marbella’s Golden Mile. A red carpet reception received the immaculately clad invitees.

WWW.HOMERUNMARBELLA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

ENGEL & VÖLKERS

For the first time ever, all of the Engel & Völkers shops on the Coast, including those from Sotogrande, Estepona, Marbella, Mijas, Fuengirola, Benalmádena, Torremolinos, and Málaga joined forces at an event. This was held at the Andalucía Lab and consisted of a seminar with a range of speakers and networking sessions.

E

WWW.ENGELVOELKERS.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

RASHA PRESENTATION

RInvitees gathered at a luxurious art deco villa in Marbella Sierra Blanca for a presentation of the latest RASHA technology, invented by Dr. Jere RiveraDugenio, on the eve of the Bare Knuckles Fight Club event. This advanced technology is officially endorsed by the BNFC to enhance recovery and performance.

WWW.THERASHA.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF NUBAY

NThe Coast’s real estate fraternity arrived in force for the official launch of Nubay, a frontline beach complex west of Estepona consisting of 66 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments and five villas. José Carlos Leon of Nvoga, the marketing operation for the development, presented the project alongside Francisco Vasquez from the constructor, Hercesa.

WWW.NUBAY.ES

PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN

Top hotels also contain excellent restaurants that are open to the public – we recommend some on the west side of Marbella that you ought to know. Meet Floriano Pellegrino and Isabella Potì who are creating waves on the gastronomic scene with BROS’.

« BACK TO CONTENTS

ggourmet

188 Five Star Dining West of Marbella

200 Floriano Pellegrino & Isabella Potì of BROS’

206 Gourmet Bytes

210 The World’s Best Wines?

FIVE STAR DINING ON THE WEST SIDE OF MARBELLA

Top hotels also contain restaurants with a gourmet offering and level of service that are exemplary. Here are some fine examples on the west side of Marbella, open to the public, that you ought to know.

WORDS JAMES SINCLAIR   PHOTOGRAPHY KEVIN HORN & RESPECTIVE HOTELS

FINCA CORTESIN

Renowned for its elegance and sophistication, this multi-award winning resort invites its guests to luxuriate within sumptuous surroundings. Converted from a country hacienda with traditional Andalusian architecture, Finca Cortesin occupies a tranquil estate quite close to the picturesque

mountain village of Casares. It offers an array of amenities for those fortunates who can take time out for a pampering experience par excellence in a rarefied ambience. Notably, its legendary restaurants are also open for those not residing in the hotel by prior reservation.

WWW.FINCACORTESIN.COM

REI

Rei by Finca Cortesin is the hotel’s signature restaurant, attracting a clientele from all over the province. Under the guiding hand of Masterchef, Luis Olara, its cuisine is renowned for sublime traditional Asian dishes as well as enticing combinations fusing Asian and Mediterranean influences. An open kitchen affords diners the opportunity to see the staff at work as they skilfully slice the fresh cuts of fish and prepare the exquisite delicacies Rei is famed for. Select from the 14-course tasting menu or from an extensive offering of tempting specialities.

OPEN FOR DINNER FROM TUESDAY TO SATURDAY FROM 19:30 TO 23:00. RESERVATIONS:

(+34) 952 937 800

EL JARDÍN DE LUTZ

With a magnificent setting facing a stately lawn with millennial olive trees and the Mediterranean shimmering in the distance, El Jardín de Lutz occupies a shaded terrace area, moving indoors on cooler evenings. It comes to life each evening with exceptional candlelit dinners serenaded by a live band softly reproducing popular hits. Head Chef Lutz Bösing

has curated a compact menu that combines classic Spanish dishes with modern touches. Savouring such delicacies with a fine wine pairing and enveloping ambience is the stuff of memories.

OPEN EVERY DAY FOR DINNER FROM 19:00 TO 23:00. RESERVATIONS:

(+34) 952 937 800

LA VERANDA

Fully restored to its original splendour and managed by Head Somelier, José Luis Morales, La Veranda is the Anantara Villa Padierna’s restaurant for international dining with flair. Chef, Santiago Altuna has assembled a menu which offers diners the favourite dishes and most iconic plates that hotel guests have enjoyed over the

last two decades. The venue is as time honoured as the dishes on offer, with a lovely terrace for dining under the stars, and an interior space that exudes elegance and sophistication.

OPEN FROM WEDNESDAY TO SUNDAY FROM 19:00 TO 23:00 WITH LIVE MUSIC ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 889 150

ANANTARA VILLA PADIERNA

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace lives up to its name with magnificent Tuscan-inspired architecture, comprising wonderfully elegant rooms and suites. Although located on Marbella’s doorstep, it is sufficiently removed and in such a privileged location that, for all intents and purposes, it feels like being in another world. The hotel boasts many special amenities, including three golf courses surrounding the resort, a Raquet Club with tennis and padel, squash and badminton, a croquet lawn, a sumptuous spa, and a Roman amphitheatre

LA LOGGIA

La Loggia instantly impresses with its classic décor, lavish produce displays, extensive menu, and sweeping views over the lake and fountain across the golf course to the Mediterranean. A favourite venue of guests staying at the hotel, under the guiding hand of Head Chef, Esteban Periañez, the ambience is lively and enticing. An Italian food aficionados paradise,

this is a lovely venue to linger over a leisurely lunch on the terrace or to enjoy a sumptuous meal within the confines of its beautiful interior setting.

OPEN EVERY DAY FOR BREAKFAST

FROM 07:00 TO 11:00 AND FOR LUNCH

FROM 13:00 TO 16:30. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 952 889 150

METT HOTEL & BEACH RESORT MARBELLA – ESTEPONA

METT is a name conferring exclusivity and luxury, with a collection of refined hotels located in some of the world’s top locations including Bodrum in Turkey, Barcelona coming soon, and METT Singapore which will open later in 2025. The METT Hotel & Beach Resort Marbella – Estepona emanates sophistication yet with a relaxed vibe befitting its beachfront location. Guests can indulge in exciting leisure facilities, top gastronomy, and entertainment, the sumptuous MOI spa, and the impressive Azure Pool and Beach Club.

ISOLA

Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Roman Empire and southern Italy, Isola Ristorante is a dream venue for lovers of Italian cuisine, serving up a range of favourite Italian dishes that are beautifully presented and simply delicious. Lose yourself in the plush surroundings while savouring wonderfully tasty preparations with a modern twist. A highlight here not to be missed is the speciality of the house – pinsa – prepared in an authentic pizza oven, a type of deep pan pizza with an incredibly light base, allowing the topping to reign supreme.

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 19:00 TO 23:00. CLOSED FOR THE SEASON FROM NOVEMBER 12. RESERVATIONS: (+34) 951 906 567.

AMMOS

Following its exodus in Doha, Dubai, and Ibiza, since opening this summer, AMMOS has established itself as the best Greek restaurant on the Coast. Masterminded by the resort’s Executive Chef, Giannis Toman, he has ensured that his country’s most favoured dishes are well represented at this quaint venue right on the beach, with the highlight on fish and seafood preparations. The relaxing setting evokes a Greek village permeated with a Mediterranean vibe, with white and blue touches everywhere in evidence.   You will have to wait until March to experience the many charms that AMMOS offers. e

FLORIANO PELLEGRINO AND ISABELLA POTÌ OF

BROS’

FINE IMAGINATIVE CUISINE IN SOUTHERN ITALY

Far from the large, cosmopolitan cities of the north of Italy, BROS’, a fine dining establishment in the southern city of Lecce, is quickly gathering fame and recognition. Run by Chefs Floriano Pellegrino and Isabella Potì, it obtains inspiration from the region that surrounds it, melding tradition, forgotten products, and processes with the highly technical, creative, and contemporary skill set of its two internationally-trained chef patrons. Together, they have created a style of cuisine that excites the mind and palate, drawing guests into a world of aromatic intensity and masterful complexity of texture and flavour.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BROS’

FLORIANO PELLEGRINO

Chef Floriano Pellegrino hails from the southern region of Salento (Italy’s ‘heel’). He grew up alongside his two brothers, immersed in the daily routine of his family’s farm and respecting the importance of producing quality, sustainable produce. His surroundings nurtured his early enthusiasm for ingredients and cooking, and he revelled in preparing family meals in the farmhouse kitchen. He studied to become a chef at the Istituto Alberghiero Columella, in the main city of Lecce, spending his free time on weekends and throughout the busy summer months working in local hotels. He also played rugby, a sport that helped him master the discipline and mental focus one needs to be part of a successful team.

At the age of 18, Floriano joined the team at Restaurant Ilario Vinciguerra, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Gallarate just outside Milan in Lombardy. A year later, he headed to Spain, honing his craft in some of the country’s best restaurants: Mugaritz (under Andoni Luis Aduriz), Azurmendi (under Eneko Atxa), and Restaurante Martín Berasategui. He then headed to France, working at La Grenouillère under Alexandre Gauthier, and then to Denmark, where he trained at Noma under René Redzepi. ›

Floriano states that his time in the kitchen under the mentorship of Martín Berasategui had the most profound impact on his professional and personal path. He credits this experience with having helped him develop the mental aptitude and meticulous discipline required to be a successful, innovative, contemporary chef.

In 2014, he headed to London for Claude Bosi’s two-Michelin-starred Hibiscus in Mayfair, fulfilling the position of Junior Sous

Chef. There, he reconnected with a chef colleague and friend from his hometown – Isabella Potì, who was then Pastry Chef de Partie. This would soon change the course of both their paths as they returned home and became partners in business and life.

Floriano opened BROS’ in Lecce in early 2016 with his two brothers. In 2016, he won the Tomorrow’s Top prize from the Touring Club, the Surprise of the Year title from Identità Golose, and the 20 Years Award from San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna.

ISABELLA POTÌ

Isabella, whose father is Italian and mother is Polish, was born in Rome but moved to Lecce as a baby. She grew up surrounded by nature and hyper-local ingredients, such as daily fresh milk from a neighbour’s cows and wild strawberries from her grandmother’s garden. She also studied at the Istituto Alberghiero Columella in Lecce, and after graduating in 2013, she headed to London and the kitchen of Chef Claude Bosi’s Hibiscus in Mayfair. The following year, her culinary prowess led her to Spain, Denmark, and France, where her skills were honed under renowned chefs Paco Torreblanca, Martín Berasategui, Rasmus Kofoed, and Mauro Colagreco. In 2016, she returned to Lecce and joined Floriano to help direct BROS’. She is also co-owner of Roots Trattoria in Scorrano and the marketing agency, Pellegrino Brothers. She is additionally a sought-after collaborator in the world of high-profile brands.

VIA DEGLI ACAYA, 2, LECCE LE, ITALY

TEL: (+39) 351 661 5513

WWW.PELLEGRINOBROTHERS.IT

THE CONCEPT

At BROS’, diners enjoy meticulously crafted food and a wine list featuring labels from big and small wineries. Scanning a QR code allows diners to access the wine list and interactively connect with the works of local artists who have interpreted the restaurant’s dishes through video, painting, sculpture, and digital work. Guests are led through a detailed breakdown of each dish and its corresponding representation of art.

The restaurant is discreetly housed within the white stone alleyways of Lecce’s old town, with its Baroque churches, old residential buildings, and Roman amphitheatre. The comfortable interiors are based on a pared-back, textural palette of warm light wood, polished floors, and exposed stonework with soft directional lighting in the evenings. The tables are well-spaced, allowing for private conversation and meaningful interaction with the serving staff. Modern music helps create a calm, sensory ambience that guides guests on a gastronomic odyssey through the world of two of Italy’s most exciting chefs. e

COMPILED

BY

MARISA CUTILLAS

CHEFS JACQUES AND MATHIEU PRESENT CASCADA MARBELLA

Cascada Marbella is a warm, welcoming bistro-style restaurant located in a stunning space that was once a private villa. Nestled in the hills of Sierra Blanca next to one of the waterfalls of the Arroyo de las Represas, it is led by executive chefs and brothers Jacques and Mathieu Lagarde. The brothers focus on sustainability, embrace the zero-waste philosophy, and grow their own food. Both studied cooking in their native France and have travelled the world to enhance their training. They have honed their craft in top restaurants in Australia, New Zealand, and France.

WWW.CASCADAMARBELLA.COM

SEVENTH EDITION OF FIESTA POP TAKES PLACE ON NOVEMBER 18 IN MÁLAGA

Fiesta POP Navidad Gourmet

5.0 is one of the highlights of the gastronomic season on the Coast, as it gathers companies from the wine, premium beverage, delicatessen, artisanal sweets, Iberian products, seafood, truffle, caviar, and exotic fruit sectors. This year, the seventh edition of the event will be taking place on November 18 at the Hotel Ilunion in Málaga, from 11am to 8pm. It will be spread out over 600m2 and will feature tasting sessions, showcasing events, and networking opportunities. Attendees will include chefs, directors of restaurants, distributors, hotel directors, producers, shops, and more.

AFTERNOON TEA AT THE ANANTARA VILLA PADIERNA PALACE BENAHAVÍS MARBELLA RESORT

The Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort will now be serving afternoon tea at Eddy’s Bar with items from the stunning The IQ Home Collection, a sustainable artisanal brand founded by Inés and Mercedes Domecq. Specifically, the resort will be utilising the brand’s MALAKITA line of tableware, in green and white tones. Afternoon tea, which features an array of sweet and savoury delights, can be enjoyed from 4pm to 7pm every day.

WWW.ANANTARA.COM

DA BRUNO PAYS HOMAGE TO GRAPES

Grupo Da Bruno recently celebrated a new edition of the Fiesta de la Uva de Da Bruno (the Da Bruno Grape Harvest celebration), coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the group. It featured wonderful products from Italy and other Mediterranean countries as well as a tasting of Doña Giuseppina wines. Congratulations to Da Bruno for its many years of success and its respect for excellent produce!

WWW.DABRUNO.COM

LA ANTXOETA ART RESTAURANT WINS GOLDEN PLATE AWARD

La Antxoeta Art Restaurant, located in the Soho area of Málaga, is the proud winner of the Plato de Oro (Golden Plate) award at the National Gastronomy Prize, held by Radio Turismo. The restaurant has also been deemed the best restaurant in Andalucía by The Fork and its maître d’, Cristina Socorro, was recognised for her outstanding work by the Club de Gourmets. La Antxoeta is famed for its avant-garde dishes, made with top-quality, market-fresh ingredients obtained from zerokilometre suppliers.

WWW.ANTXOETA.COM

THE WORLD’S BEST WINES?

Who decides which is the best wine on the market? Wine critics play a key role in the positioning and popularity of certain wines. Their reviews not only impact consumers’ purchasing decisions, but also distribution strategies and market prices. Some critics have an almost immediate impact on the success of a wine, with producers eager to obtain good scores.

WORDS SEBASTIÁN LOZANO OF INVINIC

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL TODAY ARE:

» Robert Parker: Founder of The Wine Advocate, his 100-point scoring system revolutionised the way wines were evaluated. Parker's high scores can increase the prestige and price of a wine.

» Jancis Robinson: One of the most respected critics, with great influence both in the UK and internationally. Her wine reviews and her JancisRobinson.com platform are highly valued.

» Wine Spectator: One of the most important wine magazines. Every year it publishes its list of the ‘Top 100’ wines, which has a significant impact on the popularity of the wines included.

» Decanter: Another influential publication that awards prizes in its Decanter World Wine Awards, one of the most prestigious competitions worldwide.

PETRUS 2015

AOC Pomerol - France

100% Merlot

Petrus 2015 is an exceptional wine that combines power and elegance. One of the jewels of the wine world. 100 Parker

Price: 7.500€

PINGUS 2014

DO Ribera del Duero - Spain

100% Tempranillo

Pingus is a cult wine due to its extremely limited production, the uncompromising quality of each bottle and the prestige of its creator, Peter Sisseck. Organic and biodynamic. 100 Parker

Price: 2.450€

RECAREDO TURÓ D’EN

MOTA ENOTECA 2001

Corpinnat - Catalonia

100% Xarel.lo

Unique plot of just 1 hectare, where the Xarel.lo vines are over 80 years old. This is a unique edition of 150 bottles ‘disgorged’ in May 2024 with 22 years of ageing on lees. Organic and biodynamic. 100 Parker

Price: 695€

ARTADI EL PISÓN 2004

Rioja Alavesa - Spain

100% Tempranillo

From a 2.4 ha. vineyard planted in 1945 in Laguardia. It is a cult wine, considered one of the best in Spain and the world. 100 Parker

TORBRECK THE LAIRD 2005

Barossa Valley - Australia

100% Shiraz

The Laird is extremely limited in production, which makes it highly desirable among collectors and connoisseurs.. It is a powerful and opulent wine, capturing the essence of Australian Shiraz at its best. Vineyards over 100 years old. 100 Parker

Price: 850€

Price: 975€

TORO ALBALÁ DON PX SELECTION 1946

DO Montilla-Moriles - Spain

100% Pedro Ximenez

This 1946 vintage is considered a masterpiece due to its rarity, longevity and complexity. Don PX 1946 comes from a historic vintage and has undergone extended ageing in oak barrels for more than 60 years before bottling. A collector’s rarity. 100

Parker

Price: 595€

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