Social Scene Costa del Sol 7 – 13 March 2024 Issue 2018

Fashion lunch

AGE CONCERN MARBELLA - SAN PEDRO is holding a Fashion Lunch at 1pm on Thursday March 21 at the G-Wine restaurant located on Avda. Mar Mediterraneo in San Pedro Alcantara.

The event will feature a wonderful Fashion Show by Anne O’Ryan and Jewellery by Selina. Come enjoy a lunch on the catwalk - an event guaranteed to be full of fashion and fun.

Anne O’Ryan commented on Facebook about being thrilled and immensely grateful to be part of this event, dedicated to supporting Age Concern San Pedro/Marbella. “It fills our hearts with happiness to join hands in such a meaningful cause, knowing that together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of our community’s seniors.”

The price is €30 per head for lunch (which includes a glass of wine, beer or soft drink) and the Fashion Show, and please pay by cash on the day. You can book by email - info@ageconcernmarbella. com.

Fuengirola for equality

FUENGIROLA Town Hall has designed a full programme, consisting of more than 20 activities, to commemorate International Women’s Day, whose main event will be the gala recognition of women ‘Fuengirola for them’, to be held on Friday March 8, from 6pm, in the Palacio de la Paz.

Donkey (Mother’s) Day

Brian Bamford

YOU could celebrate

UK Mother’s Day with a traditional afternoon tea or, for a donation of just €20 per person you can go and celebrate in the tranquil atmosphere of Donkey Dreamland AND have a wonderful afternoon tea.

Donkey Dreamland provides a home for donkeys free from pain and suffering, surrounded by people who offer love and respect in a calm and tranquil setting. Keeping Donkey Dreamland open isn’t cheap as 20 donkeys munch their way through €600 of hay per month and €200 of special dietary foods, not to mention the rent that has to be paid. This is why the sanctuary needs to raise funds through your

donations while you enjoy a wonderful day in the countryside this Mother’s Day.

Spoil your mum, wife or girlfriend on Sunday March 10 with a traditional afternoon tea (with a glass of Cava) and meet the lovely donkeys. All funds that will be raised on the day will help Donkey Dreamland to continue to rescue donkeys in need

The councillor for Families, Equality and Social Welfare, Cristina Bornao, said, “we are going to have padel tennis tournaments for women, selfdefence workshops; we are going to start the first ‘Fuengirola for Equality’ Reading Club and we will hold the ‘Fuengirola for them’ Gala on March 8, which aims to give visibility to the inspirational women we have in our

municipality”.

To conclude, Bornao invited all the people of Fuengirola, “to participate in the activities of this programme, which will run from March 1 to 23. We have tried to make the programme as cross-cutting as possible so that everyone can enjoy it.”

so, make a difference with your Mothers’s Day present.

Walk around the rescue centre, interact with the amazing donkey tribe and enjoy a delicious homemade afternoon tea with scones, cakes and many more delicious treats. What a great way to celebrate UK Mother’s Day, book now at: donkeydreamland. com.

Photo: Fuengirola Town Hall

Photo: Facebook / Anne O’Ryan

Photo: Pickpik CC

RESTAURANTE

A hidden gem overlooking Marbella

COTO RESTAURANTE recently opened in 2022, is a luxury dining experience situated in the mountains overlooking Marbella. Located on the winding road on the way to Ronda, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Costa del Sol.

The restaurant owner and head chef Clive Rodgers purchased the building in 2018 and began construction in 2022 with local architect Juan Salvator Shvartxberg. Originally from South Africa, Clive opened the venue with the aim to connect the natural Andalucian landscape with the interior of the restaurant. The attention to detail in the venue is evident with the floor to ceiling glass doors, porcelain countertops and wooden panelling on the walls. As customers walk up the steps to the venue, they can experience the natural landscape where the inspiration for the modern architecture developed.

The menu focuses on a masterpiece of flavour with succulent cuts of meat

and fresh fish, each dish captivates all the senses. Customers can expect a menu that features a raw bar, bar bites, dishes to share and high-quality meat cuts. If you just want to enjoy a drink whilst taking in the breathtaking views, the experienced staff can recommend one of their signature cocktails featuring classics such as a mojito and pornstar martini. They also offer some twists that are exclusive to Coto. Featuring drinks such as Coffee Smortini and Royal Oak, this venue provides both classic and innovative drinks that showcase unique ingredients and flavour combinations.

The venue is also the perfect venue to celebrate key milestones such as weddings and birthdays. They also celebrate the smaller moments with an upcoming event for Mother’s Day featuring a glass of bubbly with your meal. If you like many have left buying a present for your mother to the last minute, why not treat her to a fabulous meal in the Marbella hills.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Ctra. de Ronda, A-397, Km 44, 29679, Benahavís, Malaga. Standard opening times are Monday to Saturday, 1pm to 12am, and 1pm to 6pm on Sunday. To make a reservation or get more information on upcoming events call 951 744 777 to avoid disappointment.

Sponsored by

Easter

David Hart

The sell-out event

THERE’S an upcoming charity extravaganza, ‘Express Charity: The SellOut Event’, in support of the organisation, Afesol Salud Mental, and in association with Darkness into Light, dedicated to aiding those affected by suicide and self-harm.

Save the Date: Wednesday April 24 at 1pm at the Harbour Bar and Restaurant in Marbella. It will be an unforgettable afternoon of elegance and compassion as everyone unites for a noble cause. Be part of something special, to raise much-needed funds to support mental health

initiatives.

The event will feature a lunch and fashion show so that you can indulge in a delectable meal while being treated to a dazzling display of the latest fashion

ENTERTAINMENT Alert: Olivia’s La Cala’s 2000s RnB Brunch Party. Step into a throwback that’ll have your heart singing as Olivia’s La Cala is setting the stage for a live show that’s all about those smooth 2000s RnB grooves. The date is Saturday April 6 at 1pm to 5pm and will feature DJs Fuller and Callum with classic 2000s RnB hits, a lively atmosphere and a gourmet brunch. The set menu is just €45 plus €20 for bottomless cava or €65 for bottomless

trends.

A pre-paid reservation is necessary so secure your spot early by making full payment in advance as limited seats are available. This event is renowned

Experience the vibe

Champagne. Embrace the nostalgia as Olivia’s bring the best of 2000s RnB to la Cala de Mijas. It’s not just a brunch, it’s a party with a soundtrack provided by Akon, Usher, J.Lo, Ashanti, and others. Join them for a day filled with rhythm, flavor, and flair in the heart of the Costa del Sol. For reservations, email at reservations@ oliviaslacala.com or call 608 784 367.

for its rapid sell-out, so don’t delay - book your spot today and ensure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to make a difference while enjoying an afternoon of glamour and goodwill.

The price is €45 which includes a glass of cava and €10 of that will be going to charity. Contact the organiser via the Facebook page (facebook. com/anne.halloran.7) for more information and to reserve your place and be a part of this impactful event.

Charity concert

ON Thursday March 14, from 7.45pm, the organ and saeta singing concert, entitled ‘Saetando lo Clásico’ (Tackling the classic), a prelude to Holy Week, will be held in the Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación in Marbella.

The free charity recital will be presented by the journalist Salvador de la Peña and performed by the organist Sebastián Robles (Chano) and the singers Pepe Lara and Juan Gómez.

In this programme, the organist presents four marches considered classics of Sevillian Holy Week, preceded by an unpublished piece by Luis Leandro Mariani, who was the second organist of Sevilla Cathedral from 1889 to 1925, and whose organ works the organist is rescuing and re-editing from the manuscripts that the composer himself bequeathed to his heirs.

Donations will go towards the upkeep of the Sol Mayor organ in the parish church. Donations can be made by telephone: 952 920 004 - 952 865 675 - 689 348 424 or by e-mail: amigosdelorganodelsol mayor@gamil.com.

Photo: Facebook / Anne O’Halloran Ryan

LOCATED in the heart of Puerto Banus, the recently unveiled New Obal Hotel is a four-star gem redefining luxury, gastronomy, and cultural immersion in Costa del Sol. With 110 modern rooms and a commitment to sustainability, it promises an unparalleled urban tourism experience.

The Alameda Restaurant, with over six decades of culinary history, champions zero-kilometre gastronomy. Celebrating Mediterranean flavours, each dish is meticulously crafted from locally sourced ingredients. From indulgent breakfast buffets to exquisite dinners, it offers unforgettable dining moments infused with tradition.

The 360º Blue Sky Bar, perched atop the hotel, offers more than just cocktails; it’s an escape into a world of live music and breathtaking views. With a vast 400m2+ area

Welcome to the Obal

and a pool, it redefines outdoor entertainment, setting the stage for unforgettable evenings under the starlit sky.

Beyond gastronomy and entertainment, the Obal Hotel enriches Marbella’s cultural scene with events like Andalucia Day, the Cocido Madrileño, and the Chuleta Fest. These, coupled with live music, showcase the hotel’s commitment to fostering community and celebration.

Enrique Malagón, Director of Food and Beverages, expresses, “We strive to create unforgettable moments through our culinary offerings. The Alameda Restaurant and the Rooftop 360 Blue Sky Bar are just the beginning of what we’ve prepared for our guests. Our commitment to excellence and innovation shines through in every aspect.”

The Obal Hotel is a testament to luxury and impeccable service. Whether for a leisurely getaway or a special event, guests are invited to immerse themselves in indulgence. For private social events, the hotel offers impeccable venues and personalised service, ensuring every occasion is truly unforgettable.

Experience the epitome of hospitality at the Obal Hotel, where every moment is crafted with care and attention to detail.

Av. Ramón y Cajal, 3, 29601 Marbella, Málaga 952 771 250 obalurbanhotelmarbella.com

Sushi heaven

TOMADACHI restaurant, located in the heart of Neuva Andalucia, offers an unforgettable dining experience under the attentive care of Banty, the passionate owner. From the moment you step into Tomadachi, you’re transported to a realm where sushi ventures beyond its traditional boundaries. The menu entices with a fusion of flavours, seamlessly blending innovation with the essence of Japanese cuisine.

re’s something to delight every palate. Planning a party or event? Let Tomadachi arrange a sumptuous feast of sushi for your guests.

A standout feature of Tomadachi is their House Speciality - Robatayaki, an ancient Japanese culinary technique translating to fireside cooking. This adds an enchanting dimension to the dining experience, elevating the ambiance and infusing each dish with a distinctive, smoky flavour. The menu, boasting a variety of sushi, along with a hot section, is reasonably priced considering the quality of produce offered. With snacks starting at €4.50, appetizers from €10, and the Tempura section beginning from €12, Tomadachi ensures the-

Tomadachi Marbella embodies the vibrant lifestyle of the city, offering exceptional dining, inviting ambiance, and a prime location. Whether you’re a local connoisseur or a curious visitor in search of hidden gems, Tomadachi deserves a prominent place on your list of must-visit destinations. Trust Banty and his team to lead you through an unparalleled culinary journey that promises to leave a lasting impression. Don’t hesitate; immerse your senses at Tomadachi Marbellayou won’t regret it.

C. Rosalía de Castro, 3, Nueva Andalucía, 951 742 508 | Open Wed to Sunday 6.30 pm – 12 am restaurantetomodachi.com

Max-ing out on Mother’s Day

JOIN Max Beach to celebrate the extraordinary women in our lives this UK Mother’s Day with a heartwarming Sunday lunch filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Raise a toast to the mums who inspire us every day as they offer a FREE glass of cava for all mothers attending lunch on Sunday March 10!

Max Beach has an authentic boho style and laid back atmosphere, all in harmony with the natural environment making it the perfect setting to enjoy your meal. Relax and enjoy the action from above on the sky terraces and balcony, or from the lower deck and cosy interiors. Reserve your spot now and make this Mother’s Day one to remember, call 952 930 858

And why not treat mum to a Max Beach gift voucher? You can purchase a gift voucher online for use at Max Beach. Just fill in the information on the website (maxbeach.es), pay online and it will automatically be emailed to you or directly to your mother.

Japan tour

THE first San Roque Manga and Video Games Meeting, called ‘Japan Tour’, will be in the large marquee in the Plaza de las Constituciones, where different stands will be set up on Saturday and Sunday, March 9 and 10 from 11am to 8pm. Admission is free.

‘Japan Tour’ is an appointment for lovers of digital leisure, where they can enjoy the experience of virtual reality and free gaming stations, with the latest generation video game consoles and the best titles of the moment.

As for the activities planned, there will be Japanesethemed photocalls, board games, a creative zone, as well as a bouncy castle and workshops for the little ones. In addition, there will be performances and cosplay character shows on a stage.

THE Irish Association of Spain is celebrating St Patrick’s Day at la Plaza de la Mezquita in Benalmadena from 1pm to 7pm on Sunday March

17. Mass will be held in the Inmaculada Concepcion Church in Arroyo del Miel at 1.30pm(ish), situated next to the train station. There will then

be a parade from the church to the plaza, where the festivities will have already commenced.

For this there is the welcome return of The Celtic

Paddy’s in the Plaza

Dancers displaying their interpretation of modern Irish dance. There will also be a wide selection of bands, dancers, singers and performers keeping you entertained throughout the day.

Of course, there will also be bars serving the

best Guinness in the area as well as a lager for non-believers. Soft drinks and water will also be available. You will also be treated to 100 per cent Irish burgers, cheeseburgers and hotdogs and of course fried onions in the best Irish tradition.

Photo: Rawpixel

Sponsored by

Sparkle into spring

HEAD to the Doña Julia Golf Club at Casares Costa on Thursday March 14 for a fundraising dinner plus a fashion show featuring exclusive pre-loved luxury clothing and accessories, all for sale on the night.

It all starts at 7.30pm with a complimentary welcome glass of cava then there is a three-course dinner starting at 8pm. The price is just €25, there will be a raffle and all proceeds from the event will benefit the SOS Perrera de

los Barrios dog shelter.

Tickets are available from the SOS Perrera charity shop in Duquesa Marina, Doña Julia Golf, The Book Shop in Sabanillas and The Office in Duquesa Marina. Also, if you can donate prizes for the raffle please contact Melissa on 622 060 488. Please bring cash on the evening to buy any fashion items and raffle tickets as card payments can’t be accepted.

Thank you for the music

Kevin Fraser Park

A 50TH anniversary celebration edition of ABBA’s Waterloo will be released in April. Yes it was that long ago: the Eurovision Song Contest final held in Brighton, UK, which saw ABBA launch their career, winning with the song Waterloo, was on April 6, 1975 - 50 years ago.

ABBA have reached the UK Number One spot a total of nine times between 1974 and 1980 and today, the songs they created - written and produced by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and sung by Agnetha Fältskog and Anni-Frid ‘Frida’ Lyngstad - are regarded as an important part of the international music canon. In the 21st century, ABBA are more popular than ever.

THE next lunch for the group is at TAPA y TAI by My Thai on Thursday April 11 as many people are away over Easter. The cost is €18 for three courses and a glass of wine and we have the pleasure of Brian Piccolo singing for us, look forward to that. Open to everyone.

Tuesday April 23 is a St George’s evening do at Monaghans, where we can look forward to a drink on arrival,

We are a family-run business using quality products, and we love our job.

Open from Tuesday to Saturday, dinner only. Kitchen open from 1 8.30 to 23.30, last ord ers 23:00.

Ever y night with live music.

Phone: 952 888 077

Phone: 670 604 392

C/

And you can help celebrate 50 years of one of the world’s most popular bands at Teatro Salón Varietes in Fuengirola on Saturday March 9 at 7.30pm and Sunday March 10 at 7pm.

The shows feature The ABBA Experience, the original ABBA tribute band on the Costa del Sol with great costumes, dance routines and live musicians.

Discover your inner ‘Dancing Queen’ and once again say ‘Thank you for the Music’ with the coast’s leading ABBA tribute.

Tickets available from the box office or the website. Box office hours are 11am to 2.30pm Monday to Friday and one hour before each performance. For more information phone 952 474 542 or email boxoffice@salonvarietestheatre.com.

Simply Thriving

three-course menu, half bottle of wine per person and wonderful entertainment from our own ‘Saint George’.

All this for just €25 and open to everyone. If you are single do come

along and meet other single friends too.

More details soon of May and June events, although so far we have on May 9, a Thursday lunch at El Golf, June 6 a coach ride out to a venta in the countryside, June 27 our final end of our season super night out at La Sierra.

For further information visit Facebook site Simply Thriving Group.

EASTER’S COMING!

John Smith

Easter in

Florence:

rocketing doves and exploding carts

Solve a riddle

EASTER EGGS are popular throughout Europe, but in Denmark there is a tradition which people follow to decide whether you give or receive the egg. The concept is fairly simple, although the actual execution isn’t quite as easy and tends to follow the Valentine’s Day concept of initial anonymity. You choose one or more people and send them what is best referred to as a ‘teaser’ letter which is decorated with snowdrops and contains a riddle.

The sender ‘signs’ the letter with a series of dots which correspond to the number of letters in their name and if the recipient can solve the riddle and also work out who has sent the letter then they are entitled to claim an Easter egg from the sender.

If they can’t work it out, then they have to give the sender an Easter egg, although if they haven’t guessed who sent it, then the sender will have to reveal themselves to get their prize.

THE origin of the bizarre Easter celebration in Florence dates back to the time of the First Crusade, when the Florentine captain Pazzino dei Pazzi, returning from Jerusalem in 1101, brought with him three pieces of stone (allegedly) from Christ’s tomb. From then until today, the three stones are used to make a spark to light the Easter candle, a symbol of Resurrection, victory of life over death.

This holy fire was originally distributed to the people throughout the city in a simple cart that stopped in the streets and squares. The one used today, which in Florence is called the Brindellone, was made by the Pazzi family in 1494 and is a very elaborate construction, hardly recognisable as a cart.

On Easter morning, escorted by a procession, the Brindellone begins its journey from Via Il Prato, where it is kept for the rest of the year. Pulled by two pairs of white oxen, it crosses the city streets and arrives in Piazza del Duomo, in front of the cathedral.

At 11am, to the singing of the ‘Gloria in Excelsis Deo’, the fuse of a rocket powered mechanical dove is lit, which, from the high altar, flies on a zip wire to the Brindellone and sets fire to the fireworks arranged inside the structure starting an explosion, which symbolises the distribution of the blessed fire to the whole city.

The dove, after the explosion, makes its way back to its starting point inside the cathedral. If its journey is interrupted it is said to be an unlucky sign for Florence: in 1966, the year of the citiy’s catastrophic flood, the dove stopped halfway.

Photo: Flickr CC / lars 20070

MAX BEACH stands as a sanctuary where family time transcends into cherished memories against the backdrop of the Mediterranean’s azure charm. Nestled along the captivating coastline of Mijas, Max Beach exudes a boho-chic ambiance that effortlessly blends relaxa-

Max Beach-soup for the soul

tion with sophistication, greeting guests with an inviting decor and unparalleled sea view.

One of Max Beach’s remarkable aspects is its ability to cater to the di-

verse needs of different age groups within a family. Whether it’s grandparents seeking tranquility, parents craving culinary delights, or children yearning for adventure, this establishment seamlessly accommodates them all. The expansive beachfront offers a myriad of activities, ensuring every member of the family finds their slice of joy.

Max’s service elevates the dining experience to extraordinary heights. Understanding guests’ preferences with finesse, his recommendations hit all the right notes, leaving a lasting impression.

The culinary journey at Max Beach tantalises the taste buds and nourishes the soul with a fusion of Mediterranean flavours and global influences. From fresh seafood delicacies to vibrant salads, each dish is a testament to the culinary expertise that defines Max Beach.

Adding to the enchantment is the exemplary service provided by Max, affectionately known as Leo for his uncanny resemblance to Leonardo Capriccio. Despite bearing no relation to the owners,

Max’s embodiment of the restaurant’s namesake reflects the pride he takes in his role, ensuring that every guest feels valued and attended to. With each visit to Max Beach, patrons are treated to unparalleled service from the entire team, making it a beacon of excellence along the coast.

In essence, Max Beach epitomises family time - a haven where generations converge to craft enduring memories. Amidst life’s chaos, it serves as a gentle reminder of the simple joys found in shared laughter, love, and experiences.

So, when seeking to rekindle life’s spark, look no further than Max Beach, where family, cuisine, and service shine brightly.

Urb Riveria del Sol 29649

Tel: 952 930 858

maxbeach.es

C/Moncayo, 21-23, Fuengirola

Brian Bamford

CAFÉ Nomad in Fuengirola is famous for its excellent threetier platters, and what better way to celebrate UK Mother’s Day. Make sure to book your special brunch with Mum or loved ones on Sunday March 10 from 9.30am - only at Nomad.

The price of €17 per person includes a delightful brunch with lots of savoury and sweet treats with a glass of sparkling cava. And why not go that extra mile with Nomad’s Mother’s Day

3 tiers of treats

Specials. Treat Mum to something special with our Mother’s Day collection: cupcake boxes and grazing treats.

Taking the waters

Brian Bamford

BENAHAVIS Arts Society has organised a talk on Britain’s spa towns on Tuesday March 19 at 7pm at Hugos investment in Marbella. Members are free, other societies for the the art society €12 and visitors €15. The lecture is by Jane Tapley who is

Special Events Organiser at the Theatre Royal Bath. She interviews visiting actors, writers, directors and lectures regularly to theatre going societies and history and fine arts groups. In addition she is a consultant to various TV productions of Jane Austen adaptations on food in the 18th and 19th

At Nomad, they know this is a very special date, so order yours now via the website: cafenomadfuengirola. com.

centuries. The origins of Britain’s spas go back to pre-Roman times when they developed from mineral springs or holy wells associated with local myths.

Photo: Wikimedia CC

Photo: Nomad

Sponsored by

ADVERTISING FEATURE

LOOKING for some egg-citing Easter fun for your little bunnies? Look no further than Zona Kids! On Saturday March 30, join us for a delightful breakfast with none other than the Easter Bunny himself! From 10.00am to 1.00pm, your children can indulge in a scrumptious breakfast featuring delicious pancakes with their choice of toppings, accompanied by refreshing juice. And that’s just the beginning of the fun-filled day we have planned!

While the kids enjoy their meal, they’ll have unlimited access to our dedicated play areas, including a softball area for the tiny tots, a fantasy world, a trampoline zone, and even a gaming area for the teens. Meanwhile, parents can unwind and supervise comfortably in our café, savouring some well-deserved refreshments.

But wait, there’s more! The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance, spreading joy and laughter throughout the venue. Plus, there will be egg painting and an exciting Easter egg hunt for the little adventurers. And don’t forget the face painting! Every child will

leave with a smile on their face and a party bag or Easter egg to remember the day by. All this amazing fun comes at a fantastic price of just €15.00 per child, with reservations required to secure your spot. Simply WhatsApp us at 672 879 144 , and don’t forget a €5.00 deposit per child.

At Zona Kids, we specialise in creating unforgettable moments for children of all ages. Whether it’s a birthday party with beloved characters like Mickey Mouse or Spiderman, or simply a day of play and laughter, we’ve got you covered. Ask us about our kids’ meals, balloons and birthday cakes for an extra special touch! Join us this Easter for a hopping good time at Zona Kids. We can’t wait to see you there!

C. Gondola, 2 Alhaurin el Grande | 672 879 144 zonakidsparty.es