Social Scene Costa del Sol 26 Dec 2024 - 2 Jan 2025 Issue 2060
Christmas fair
CHRISTMAS is still in the air so why not check out the the International Christmas Fair which is lighting up the Costa del Sol until December 30, bringing festive cheer and holiday magic to locals and visitors alike.
Running daily from 12 noon to 8 PM, the fair promises to be a holiday highlight, offering a mix of seasonal delights, international flair, and that unbeatable Christmas je ne sais quoi. Where? The fair takes place at the heart of La Cala de Mijas Costa, La Cala
Boulevard, making it the perfect spot to grab some festive goodies and enjoy the community atmosphere.
For more information, call 952 58 90 10, email frd@mijas.es, or visit www.mijas.es.
If you fancy walking around the shops, sipping hot coffee, or mulled wine and eating chocolate-stuffed churros, or nibbling on some tapas, get yourself down to the Christmas market and enjoy the festive season on a high.
Soak up the atmosphere and be part of the community.
Kempinski market art fair
KEMPINSKI Hotel Bahía, just outside of Estepona, has invited Helen Stanley of Champagne
Lifestyle to return Saturday, December 28, to present her increasingly popular Saturday garden market and art fair.
Being held in the beautiful gardens of the luxurious hotel from 11am until 5pm, the market will feature the finest in locally produced high-end artisan products, fashion, and artworks, as well as plenty of gift ideas
and things to indulge oneself with. Organic cosmetics, handmade scented candles, fashion and accessories, unique jewellery, and an abundance of other
course, Champagne lifestyle accessories.
The Helen Stanley-curated market will also feature an art fair, this time featuring the extremely talented
Credit: Shutertock Ground
La Sala Stays Open Late:
& Saturday Until 3AM
LA Sala Puerto Banus, the ultimate spot for dining, live music, and nightlife, is excited to announce longer weekend hours. From now on, we’ll be open every and entertainment every night of the week. As one of the Costa del Sol’s most popular dining and nightlife destinations, La Sala retains its status as the ‘hottest table
rience that keeps going into the early hours. Join us this weekend! Come along every Friday and Saturday and soak up the electric energy, great food, and lively music. Book your table now and make the most of your weekend
To reserve your table, contact La Sala Puerto Banus at: reservations@LaSalaBanus. com or call 952 814
Malaga Blues Festival
Caroline James TO celebrate its 12th Anniversary, Malaga Blues Society presents a Blues Reunion Festival at the Clarence Jazz Club on Saturday, December 28.
Various musicians and groups representing the Malaga blues scene will be appearing along with special guests. After the performances, the special night will culminate in a huge blues jam session.
The event will feature vocals from Vicky King, Pepe Salas and Fran Pacheco. Vocals and guitar will be performed by Fran Pacheco, David Qunitero, Victor Sanchez and Paul Stylianou. On bass guitar will be Angel Quintero and Javier Martin, with
and
on the drums.
The blues bands The Gangberries, The Blues Stompers and El Trio de Saco will be performing.
Special guests at the anniversary event include Richard Ray Farrell on electric guitar, harmonica and vocals, Txaco Jones on vocals and Cristobal Oteros ‘Pobas’ on harmonica.
Tickets are available online or in person from the Clarence Jazz Club in Malaga and cost from 10 to 15 euros depending on the seat location.
This special anniversary event promises to be a real treat for blues fans and the promoters hope it will help to spread awareness of this fantastic genre in the local area.
Claudio Tamer
Olmo Sanchez
The Gangberries, Facebook
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Bite Kitchen
LOCATED in the heart of Miraflores, Bite Kitchen is a fantastic addition to the vibrant culinary scene on the Costa del Sol. Open seven days a week, this charming eatery welcomes guests for all day Brunch and an evening Grill dinner menu. With a meticulously planned menu that not only is entirely gluten free, it is also well catered to other dietary and lifestyle preferences such as vegetarian and vegan - Bite Kitchen promises a dining experience that everyone can enjoy.
The festive season is particularly special at Bite Kitchen, offering a dedicated menu complete with seven festive inspired dishes, along with mulled wine and other seasonal delights. Their weekly special promotions add even more allure, such as their Wine Wednesdays, a Steak and Wine night on Thursdays, a Cocktail evening on Fridays as well as a delightful Happy Hour running Monday to Friday. Early risers can take advantage of a generous 20 per cent off during their Early Bird Breakfast which is available until 9.30am weekdays. If that’s not enough to tempt you then perhaps their popular Bottomless Brunch will, where for just €29.95, you can savour any brunch item alongside two hours of unlimited Cava, Mimosas, fresh orange juice, tea, or coffee.
Bite Kitchen’s ambiance strikes a perfect balance be-
tween modern sophistication and cosy comfort, making it an ideal venue for group gatherings or meetings. With ample parking and wheelchair accessibility, this restaurant ensures a hassle-free visit for all guests. The welcoming and attentive staff further elevate the experience, exuding positivity and going the extra mile to make diners feel right at home. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and their warm, friendly demeanour ensures that every visit is memorable.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bite Kitchen is its entirely gluten-free menu. Yet, the true testament to their culinary prowess is that you’d never guess it! The dishes are so flavourful and expertly crafted that they delight even the most discerning palate. The skill of the chef and the quality of ingredients combine to create a dining experience that is truly exceptional.
see for yourself why it’s quickly becoming a favourite on the Coast!
For those seeking a gift for the foodie in their life, Bite Kitchen also offers gift vouchers, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a festive meal, a casual brunch, an evening meal, a few cocktails with friends or colleagues or simply a coffee in a relaxed yet classy setting, Bite Kitchen is the place to be. Come and
Please note Reservations are advised 648 716 162 - Opening days and hours may change over seasonal periods. Please check their website, Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates.
Urb Jazmin De Miraflores, C. Jazmín | 29649 Las Lagunas de Mijas | 648 716 162
San Silvestre fun run
SAN Silvestre Fun Run is a tradition up and down the country, celebrated on December 31. Most runners are a mixture of fitness enthusiasts and fun runners out for a bit of enjoyment with friends. It’s also an event that draws plenty of crowds to cheer on runners and to have a laugh at some of the silly costumes participants wear.
The run will be held on an urban 4-kilometre route, in which there will be no lack of good atmosphere. Both
the start and the finish line of the runners will be in the Plaza Federico García Lorca.
There will also have a charity aspect to the event. Athletes and those who want to join the event must contribute a kilo of non-perishable food, which will be handed in on the morning of the race. That food will then be donated to charity, almost certainly the Valencia DANA fund.
Registration is free of charge via the app (Torremolinos Despega) or on the day at 10.30, with the only
main requirement to participate is to have a bit of festive spirit, and so, the usual thing is that all participants go in costume. The best outfits will be awarded prizes by the organisers. At noon, everyone had passed back over the finish line; everyone will be handed 12 lucky grapes to welcome in the new year.
The starter pistol will be fired at 11am, so arrive with plenty of time to take your running number and hand in your food donation.
Magic Christmas park
MAGIC Christmas Park was a huge success in 2023 in Marbella, and this year it is returning to the Antonio Serrano Lima sports complex, Jesús Cortés ‘Pori’ football ground, to spread the Christmas cheer.
With countless fun choices, the little ones will be able to enjoy this grand Christmas-themed park that is going to be open from December 27 to January 4.
There will be a synthetic ice rink, a Christmas train, infl atable rides, and an enormous slide. The timetable is as follows:
December 27: from 4pm to 8pm
December 28: to 30: from 11am to 2pm / 4pm to 8pm
December 31: 11am to 2pm
January 1: closed
January 2, 3 and 4: from 11am to 2pm / 4pm to 8pm
The Antonio Serrano Lima sports complex in Marbella will become the Magic Christmas Park from Friday, December 27, until next January 4.
This enormous outdoor enclosure will give children the chance to enjoy
all kinds of children’s activities free of charge, including a synthetic ice rink, a Christmas train, and enormous bouncy castles in the form of Christmas figures such as Santa Claus, snowmen, and Christmas trees.
The Magic Park will have morning and afternoon opening times - from 11am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm -, except January 1 and 6, when it will remain closed so that the workers can have a bit of a lie-in. Friday, December 27, the offi cial opening won’t take place take place until 4pm.
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Marbella.
Adam Woodward
Credit: ChameleonsEye - Shutterstock
Cuban rhythms
ESTEPONA fans of authentic Cuban rhythms will not resist Habana Vieja, who have been entertaining this coastline for decades.
The authentic Cuban music group formed as a result of an idea of one of its five members, Yaemil López Torres, with the aim of reviving and promoting Cuban sounds from their most original roots.
Songs including Sarandonga, Chan Chan, El Camisón de Pepa, and many others authored by the great ‘Compay Segundo’, are faithfully treated to their original arrangements by authentic Cuban musicians, along with equally talented others. They have a faithfulness to the original recordings, a stamp of authenticity among die-hard fans, a sound
that so many want to bring back. There will be no shortage of classic favourites this night.
The group’s sincere desire is to please the public, and infectiousness with their original taste of Cuba makes them known in all traditional Cuban Jazz circles.
Members: Lázaro Yoer Suarez Contino, and on vocals; Yaemil López Torres, Cuban percussion and choir; Yohany Suarez Sotomayor, double bass and choir; Erenio Ignacio Almonte Corzo, guitar and choir; and Elena González Pisonero, flute and choir.
Habana Vieja plays one night only at Huber in Estepona on Saturday, December 28, at 8.30pm. Huber takes reservations on 608 359 596. Entry (cash on the door) is just €15, and is worth every penny.
What to see and where to be seen in Sotogrande this New Year.
New Year’s Eve
Gala Dinner at Cortijo Santa Maria & New Year’s Eve Party at IXO Tapas Bar
This double-event kicks off at 8pm at SO Hotel’s elegant IXO Tapas Bar with cocktails.
At 9pm, the celebrations move to the hotel’s cortijo-style fine dining restaurant where renowned Chef Leandro Caballero will be serving up an exquisite five course dinner.
To complete the celebrations there will be a live
DJ back at the IXO Bar where guests can dance the night away in style.
Tickets for this adults-only event cost 450 euros per adult including all food and drinks and are available now from SO Hotel Sotogrande.
New Year’s Eve Society Event
SO Hotels are also presenting a family event to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the welcoming atmosphere of the hotel’s Society Clubhouse.
Guests will enjoy welcome cocktails followed by a delightful four course dinner with live entertain-
New Year Celebrations Sotogrande
ment.
Tickets cost 220 per person.
New Year’s Eve at Marxa Chiringuito
To celebrate New Year’s Eve with a more laid-back vibe, head to Sotogrande’s Marxa Chiringuito.
Attendees can enjoy a BBQ inspired menu, savouring a variety of grilled delights.
Again, tickets are available from SO Hotel Sotogrande and cost 300 euros per person.
New Year’s Day Roast
Celebrate new beginnings in style at Sotogrande’s Society Clubhouse with a fabulous three-course New Year’s Day Roast lunch.
Tickets cost 65 euros per person, available from SO Hotel Sotogrande.
Adam Woodward
Christmas market
Mijas
Pueblo
PLAZA de la Constitucion in Mijas Pueblo, 11 AM to 7 PM.
Mijas Pueblo has officially decked the halls - and the stalls! The beloved Mijas Pueblo Christmas Market is back, and it’s got all the sparkle and charm to make your holidays merry and bright. It’s running until December 31, so hurry up and join the festive cheer!
Stuff your stockings with unique hand-carved wooden trinkets, cosy tree decorations, and indulgent holiday sweets. But this is just the beginning. Feeling peckish? Local cured meats and artisan goodies are ready to satisfy your festive cravings.
NEW Year’s Eve in Coín always raises an eyebrow as the whole town dresses up, in family or in groups, and eats the traditional grapes in the Plaza del Pescao with each strike of the bell at midnight. If there is something that separates the last night of the year in Coín from other towns in the region, it is that the streets fill up from 11 at night, whereas in other places,
it is tradition to see in the new year at home and in family. Instead, thousands spill out onto the streets in their colourful costumes.
Coín’s New Year’s Eve is not a night for dinner suits and champagne dresses. In fact, it’s altogether better if you don’t wear your best clothes because of the foam canons.
Many of the more organised families and groups of friends that have participated together to prepare
their costumes will have had their family meals earlier and then met up in a garage or other secluded space to quickly dress up and get out on the street to show off their creations.
Then, the whole town meets up in the Plaza del Pescao to await the bells of the church to strike midnight and begin bolting down their twelve grapes, one by one, before the chimes end. The partying should end just in time for breakfast.
Starry at Bonnet
lerie and Freed from Desire. Rocio, on this occasion will be accompanied by frequent collaborator, Alec Peña on guitar. It’s a free gig for anyone to enter.
ROCÍO Starry, one of the Costa del Sol’s most popular and talented singers is performing her Jazz, Blues, Funk, House and Soul at the Bonnet bar, Fuengirola, Saturday, December 28.
From 9.30pm, catch Rocío as she opens with some cool Jazz, moves into more floor-filling Latin sounds, and gets her set culminating in irresistible dance classics such as I wanna be like you, Hit the Road Jack, It Don’t Mean a Thing, Va-
Rocío, plays solo at the Bonnet, but you may have caught her previously singing from her huge repertoire along the Costa de Sol in ensembles, such as Amy Amy Amy Tribute Band, B4 Midnight, or Starry Jazz. And coming up on Friday, January 24, Rocio will be returning to Bonnet with her Amy Amy Amy Tribute Band.
See Rocío Starry at Bonnet bar in the Fuengirola harbour on Saturday, December 28, at 7.30pm.
Rocío
Credit: RC, Facebook.
Adam
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Coín.
MALVA Beach by Besaya is a beach club chiringuito with a next-level feel of elegance and chill on La Rada beach, just far enough from the noise and masses of a busy Estepona centre, yet close enough for a relaxing stroll back into the thick of it.
Whether entering from the street or directly from the beach, with its clean lines and natural wood furnishings, the relaxed concept guarantees calmness and warmth and comfort with a level of service and cuisine worthy of any exclusive dining experience.
Malva Beach by Besaya only opened a few months ago in September 2024, a concept curated by Exe-
cutive Chef Txema Palacio, which marries all the expectations of a premium dining experience to Mediterranean beach life.
It’s December, and still unusually chilly for Estepona, so we forsake the elegant terrace, sunbeds, chillout area, and luxurious Balinese beds, and opt for lunch inside overlooking an almost infinite Mediterranean, opting for mostly fish from the a la carte menu.
A delicate and finely sliced beetroot carpaccio with stracciatella and orange oil, along with red king prawn croquettes and tartar served on a quirky ceramic red prawn-shaped dish, are what catch our eye from the menu. While all the selections pay some sort of homage to
the culture and traditions of the area, the variation in flavours guarantees a different flavour experience and a stunning attention to every detail with no exception.
For our main course, while the menu contains meat and vegetable courses, we are on the beach after all, and wood-smoked grilled fish is a must! In this case, a perfectly prepared and served turbot. Chef Txema Palacio’s concept has not attempted to overdress or decorate his selection for this serving, preferring to let the flavour and the quality of each dish speak for itself. We could have gone for sole, sea bass, sardines, or beef tenderloin, or even T-bone steak from the grill menu, all presented as-is, but we are celebrating the quality of the food here.
At Malva Beach by Besaya, the chilled-out yet elegant dining experience can be as brief or as long as one needs. The fresh seafood and shareable dishes are ideal for a leisurely lunch or indulgent dinner. The menu has a bias towards the geography and its seafood, and the carefully selected wine list features options from around the world, including a total of six Galician Albariños.
Malva Beach opens daily from 10am to midnight, guaranteeing a chilled-out and elegant dining experience throughout the day.
Av de España 2, Playa de la Rada, Estepona +34 952 11 35 56 reservas@malvabeach.es
Adam Woodward
Celebrate New Year at OAK Firehouse & Cocktail
OAK Firehouse & Cocktail invites you to a magical New Year’s celebration, fi lled with exquisite fl avours, live music, and festive cheer.
Bid farewell to 2024 in style with OAK’s extraordinary New Year’s Eve celebration. Start the evening with magnifi cent canapés and a Champagne toast. Indulge in a mouth-watering three-course dinner under the starlit sky, surrounded by loved ones.
The night will come alive with live music from Joey Sax and the dynamic beats of DJ Lady Jade. As the clock strikes midnight, capture the golden moment with the enchanting tunes of ‘The Piano Man Experience’ performed by Paul Maxwel.
Celebrate in perfection at OAK Firehouse & Cocktail, where every de-
tail is thoughtfully designed to make your evening truly unforgettable. Join us for the most magical moments of the season at OAK Firehouse & Cocktail. To make your reservations or for more information, please visit www.oakmarbella.com or call 951 319 411.
OAK Firehouse & Cocktail is a quality steakhouse known for its rustic contemporary interior and stunning location next to La Sala Puerto Banus. Delivering a unique blend of premium grilled meats, fi ne wines, and exquisite cocktails, OAK offers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Puerto Banus.
C. Juan Belmonte S/N Marbella 29600 +34 951 319 411 +34 620 21 33 87 info@oakmarbella.com
Free classical concert
FOLLOWING the success of previous years, Mijas Council is presenting again the free New Year Concert of classical music.
The Malaga Symphony Orchestra will be taking to the stage and performing the concert on December 27 at the Manuel España Theatre in Las Lagunas.
The New Year concert has become a local tradition and one of the most popular events on the Mijas calendar. This year, the concert will be performed by the Malaga Symphony
Orchestra, one of the oldest and most prestigious orchestral ensembles in the country, and the concert promises to be one of the most unforgettable nights of the year.
The concert program is composed of ‘The Wedding of Luis Alonso’ by G. Giménez, ‘The Blue Danube,’ Perpetuum Mobile,’ and ‘Trisch Trasch Polka’, ‘Polka de Caza,’ various pieces by J. Strauss, which are joined by ‘The Legend of the Kiss’ by Soutullo and Vert, ‘The Revoltosa. Prelusio’ by Chapí, ‘Can Can’ by Offenbach, and, as a final
climax, and ‘Waltz of the Flowers’ by Tchaikovsky. The orchestra will be under the baton of Rubén Díez.
The entirely free concert at the Manuel España Theatre in Las Lagunas, Mijas, will begin at 8pm on December 27. The doors will remain open until the theatre is completely full, so plan to arrive early.
Founded in 1945 by maestro Pedro Gutiérrez Lapuente, the Malaga Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest and most prestigious orchestras in Spain
Credit: Ayuntamiento de Mijas.
Adam Woodward
Manilva Cancer Fun Run
Caroline James
MANILVA’s annual Run for Moore event to raise money for cancer research will take place on Saturday, January 4 setting off from the statue on the Paseo Maritimo in Sabinillas at 10.30 am.
If you’re not quite race-fit just yet, don’t worry; participants may walk, rollerskate or cycle, whichever they prefer, making this a great family activity for the New Year.
Donations are welcomed and as usual go towards the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research.
Bobby Moore OBE was a footballer who led the England men’s senior team to their first and only World Cup victory in 1966. He was 51 when
Videomapping Pueblosol
BENALMADENA has brought back its popular videomapping shows to Pueblosol in Arroyo de la Miel to bring out the Christmas cheer.
Spectacular Christmas lighting runs throughout the main shopping hubs of the Costa del Sol town, along with a full calendar of festive activities.
‘This videomapping is part of the council team’s plan to make Benalmadena the most Christmassy town in the Costa del Sol, along with our new and extended Christmas lighting and festive activities,’ said Councillor for Festivities Yolanda Peña.
he died of bowel cancer in 1993.
Shortly after, his widow set up The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research to raise money for bowel cancer research and increase public awareness of the disease.
Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer in Spain, with more than 44,000 new cases in 2024. In Europe, it is the second most common cancer with more than 500,000 European citizens diagnosed every year.
David Hewitt, the local resident responsible for organising The Run for Moore event, has raised over 25,000 euros for this worthy cause.
Why not get down to Manilva’s Paseo Maritimo and join in the fun whilst helping to raise money to prevent and treat this common cancer.
Among one of the best light shows is in the Pueblosol square in front of the Bienestar Social building with an awe-inspiring animated videomapping show projected by lasers onto the façade of the building.
The light show can be seen on Friday, December 27, and Saturday, December 28, at 7pm, and then later at 8.30pm. Then, again, the weekend shows will repeat at the same times on January 3 and 4.
Parking below the Pueblosol square is only €1, and there will be plenty of other Christmas activities to enjoy, such as music and a Christmas market.
Credit: Run for Moore Facebook
Snow White
WHAT better way to end the year than with Costa del Sol’s only pantomime show, Salon Varietés’ Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs?
Alexandra Avery, Toni-Leigha, and Owain Griffiths head a cast of extraordinarily talented local actors for a hilarious romp telling the tale of the fairest in the land. Full of all the classic panto gags and audience participation. If you have never been to a British pantomime, this for the Brits is one of the most cherished events of the year and a must to witness at least once in your life.
Snow White, currently ranked the ‘fairest in the land, has her 18th birthday coming up, officially making her an
adult. Her evil stepmother, the queen, is informed of the development by her magic mirror, and which advises her to kill Snow White. Muddles the jester and Whoopie Da Cookie get in the way of an attempt on Snow White’s life, and so she escapes into the forest, where she becomes hopelessly lost. With the Queen’s huntsman hot on her heels, she happens upon the cottage of the seven dwarfs.
Currently playing until Monday, January 6, don’t delay in getting your tickets, as this event will sell like hot Christmas cakes.
Book online at salonvarietes.com or by calling 952 474 542, or at the theatre box office between 11-2.30pm on weekdays.
CONTEMPORARY artist Lu Gómez, from Malaga, is exhibiting her paintings at the Casa de Las Tejerinas until January 15.
The exhibition, which consists of 13 canvases with women as their subjects, will be open from Tuesday to Friday, from 9am to 8pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 2pm and from 4pm to 8pm, and entry is free.
María Lourdes Gómez Ruíz (Lu Gómez), born in Málaga in 1965, defines herself as a painter and passionate about artistic representation. A contemporary artist with a long career on the international art scene, colour is the main axis of her works. In this particular
Lu Gómez exhibition
collection, it is the female subject who plays the protagonist in a variety of different forms. The common theme linking each image is woman in nature.
Through striking colours and the female figure, there is a representation of the relationship between spirituality and the natural environment. The painter questions the history, origin, meaning, and authenticity of life, transmitting perceptions that transcend her work, offering those who admire them alternatives to question their existence and that of the natural world around them.
The exhibition lasts throughout the Christmas period and is a good stop-off point on a festive stroll around the town. Casa de las Tejerinas, Plaza de las Flores, Estepona, until January 15.
COSTA
IT’S CHRISTMAS LET’S TALK SHERRY
WHATEVER your preconceptions (including the idea that it was something your grandmother brought out once a year), put that aside and embrace one of Spain’s biggest triumphs and one of the most versatile food pairings you could ever have.
A fortified wine from the Jerez region of Spain, it comes in several distinct types, each with unique characteristics. Here’s an overview:
Fino - Dry, light, and pale, crisp, briny, and slightly nutty, with aromas of almonds, herbs, and yeast (due to ageing under a layer of flor, a natural yeast that protects the wine from oxidation). Aged for about 3-5 years and typically served chilled as an aperitif.
Manzanilla - A variety of Fino, but lighter and fresher, with distinctive salty, maritime flavours due to its proximity to the sea. Aged under flor for several years and best served chilled, often as a light aperitif.
Amontillado - Aged Fino that undergoes further ageing without flor, which allows oxidation. Nutty, rich, and amber-coloured, with flavours of toasted almonds, hazelnuts, and a touch of caramel. It´s then exposed to oxygen, leading to a deeper, more complex flavour profile. Mainly served slightly chilled as an aperitif, but it also pairs well with richer foods.
Oloroso - Fully oxidized, with no flor used. Dark, rich, and complex, with flavours of dark fruits (raisins, figs), nuts, spices, and sometimes a hint of leather or tobacco. It has a fuller body than Amontillado. Aged for an extended period it takes on a deeper, darker color and richer flavors. Typically served at room temperature it pairs well
with hearty foods like meats, cheeses, and stews.
Palo Cortado - A rare type of sherry that starts life as a Fino or Amontillado but undergoes a transformation during ageing, developing characteristics of both Amontillado and Oloroso. Complex, it can have flavours of dried fruits, nuts, and subtle spices and has a deeper, more complex profile.
Cream Sherry - A sweetened blend, often made by combining Oloroso with a sweet wine such as Pedro Ximénez. Sweet, smooth, and rich, with flavours of dried fruit, caramel, and chocolate. Can be served chilled as a dessert wine or with rich, sweet dishes.
Pedro Ximénez (PX) - A very sweet, dark, and viscous sherry made from the Pedro Ximénez grape. Intensely sweet, with flavors of raisins, figs, molasses, and chocolate. It’s often described as syrupy and rich. Often served chilled as a dessert wine or drizzled over desserts like ice cream or fruit-based dishes.
So, there you go, sherry in a nutshell !!
Adam Woodward
Credit: color in my soul 5 - Instagram.
Credit: Salón Verietés
Toni-Leigha’s 2025
Adam Woodward
SINGER, actress, and popular personality in the Costa del Sol community, Toni-Leigha Dempsey has gone through a low, but mostly highs in 2024 as her career in entertainment has gone from strength to strength.
One half of Viva la Diva with singing partner Melissa Carver, and now starring in the lead role of this year’s Salón Varietés Theatre’s pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, took the time to chat with Euro Weekly News about 2024 and what she is keeping her fingers crossed for in 2025.
EWN: What was your
happiest moment in 2024?
Toni-Leigha: My happiest moment in 2024 will have been picking up a copy of Essential Marbella Magazine, the May 24 edition, and seeing me and Melissa on the front cover of it. They dedicated a two-page spread to us talking about our lives and careers. It was wonderful!
EWN: How about the worst thing?
Toni-Leigha: The worst thing was losing my grandad back in March.
EWN: What are you planning to do on New Year’s Eve?
Toni-Leigha: Melissa and I are performing. We are at La Sala in Marbella from 8pm to 10pm
SALON Vikingos opened just 3 years ago in the village of Alhaurín el Grande and instantly raised the bar among restaurants.
The pair who took on a greasy spoon and then curated it into a culinary diamond, have enjoyed so much success, they are now ready to move to bigger premises.
Apart from the charm of the narrow corner
and then we are moving onto Cyrano in La Cala for 11pm onwards. Get yourselves there!
EWN: If you could make a wish for 2025, what would it be?
Toni-Leigha: My wish for 2025 would be to stay busy with Viva la Diva but learn how to work smarter and not harder.
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building on the village’s main square, the exquisite fare on offer is as visually creative as it is worthy of a Michelin mention. Owners Tim and Gary are one of eatery’s the main draws. It is rare to find such warmth and authentic dedication to the customer experience as one does in Salon Vikingos.
Consistent 5-star reviews on Google and 5 points on Tripadvisor,
the Salon Vikingos varying menu offers up visually stunning dishes with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. Tim, an ex British Airways First-Class steward, who had travelled the world and stayed in the best hotels, knew exactly what was missing in Alhaurín when they took on a greasy spoon café and transformed it into the best restaurant in town.
Now, due to their popularity, they are about to embark on a far more ambitious project in Calle Gerald Brenan. Their 120-diner pre-opening night for New Year’s Eve was booked out in just 3 days. The full opening is hoped to be in early January 2025.
We wish the guys the best of luck. And while the name may change, Tim and Gary will always be Vikingos to us.
This unforgettable evening promises to be an exceptional celebration, blending fine dining, entertainment, and festive cheer in the perfect setting.
Your evening begins with a warm welcome of cava and canapés, setting the tone for an indulgent night ahead. The centrepiece of the celebration is a sumptuous four-course menu designed to impress even the most discerning palates. Savour the rich flavours of Lobster Bisque, followed by Monkfish and the elegant Fillet Wellington. Conclude your culinary journey with a delightful selection of desserts. Throughout dinner, draught beer, wine, and water will flow freely, ensuring a flawless dining experience.
Once dinner concludes, it’s time to hit the dance floor! Be entertained by
Ring in 2025 with Elegance and Style at Vista Lago’s Blue Label Restaurant
the captivating Alexandra Avery, whose performance will lead seamlessly into an upbeat set by our DJ. As the clock strikes midnight, join us for the traditional Spanish custom of eating 12 grapes and raising a toast with cava to welcome the New Year.
Priced at €170 per person, with children under 12 at half price, this exclusive event is the perfect way to start the year with loved ones and create magical memories.
Reserve your place now and ensure your New Year’s Eve is nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember at the Blue Label Restaurant!
Cava & Canapés on arrival three course choice menu, wine, beer, water during dinner
Lucky grapes & Cava @ midnight
Entertainment with Alexandra Avery followed by a Dj €170 per person
children under 12 half price al so open bar from 23.00-1.00
Calle Tranco,4
Credit:
Viva la Diva.
Spirit of Christmas
Adam Woodward
MUSICAL theatre, fun and games for all the family in Estepona on Saturday, December 28, at the Felipe VI Auditorium, and all for a great cause.
At 6pm on Saturday, December 28, Felipe VI Auditorium will open its doors for a family fun treat which will raise money for the Red Cross and their efforts in DANA-stricken Valencia.
‘El Espiritu de la Navidad’ combines interactive games and Christmas songs to create a magical and unforgettable experience for the kids and all the family. This fun event combines art and social commitment, as proceeds go to Estepona Red Cross in support of vulnerable families. It is a unique opportunity to have festive fun with
the whole family while contributing to an important cause.
Plot: In a world where summer has made Christmas disappear, Santa Claus faces a desperate situation as the reindeer cannot fly and gifts are not delivered. Two brave goblins, Coco and Galleta, decide to take action to reclaim and restore winter. Coco and Galleta, seek to recover the Christmas spirit, despite facing constant sabotage by the Grinch, their friendship and determination prevail. Will they successfully restore winter and the magic of Christmas?
Advance sale of tickets (€8 + fees) at wegow.es, and at the ticket office of the Felipe VI Auditorium on the day of the event from one hour before doors open
THE Automobile and Fashion Museum (MAM) in Malaga has just opened a fascinating new temporary exhibition under the title ‘Novecientosonce. Porsche, la leyenda’ (911, Porsche Legend).
The exhibition offers a unique tour through the history of the iconic Porsche, from its conception in 1963 to the most up-to-date and cutting-edge versions of today.
The exhibition presents a journey through the eight generations of the legendary German model, making the MAM (Museum of Automobiles and Fashion) an absolute must for motorsport lovers this Christmas holiday. The exhibition can be visited with a regular entrance ticket for the museum until January 7, 2025.
The legend of the Porsche 911, the world’s most iconic road-legal sports car, began at the Frank-
Porsche legend
furt International Motor Show on September 12, 1963. There, Porsche presented the successor to the 356 model, initially called the 901. With a six-cylinder boxer engine and 130 hp, it marked a qualitative leap for the brand.
However, due to a commercial rights dispute with Peugeot, the model was renamed as 911 in 1964, quickly establishing its name as an authentic sports
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car and exceeding the expectations of speed enthusiasts. Since then, the Porsche 911 has maintained its position as a world icon.
Nowadays the 911 range goes up to 650 hp and can reach speeds of up to 330 kph. The ‘Novecientosonce. Porsche, la leyenda’ exhibition continues until January 7 at the MAM, Avenida de Sor Teresa Prat, 15, Málaga.
