MA-577-2013 Editor: Diane Hamer
Indian Restaurant And Bar
FIVE RIVERS
Calle Pepin Acunas, 1 Fuente de Piedra, 29520, Malaga Open Every Day
Paul - 632 635 419
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 -
Introduction
Hi Everyone,
Hola a todos:
Here´s hoping that whether home or away, you have all enjoyed the summer holidays and the weather. By the time you read this the children will be back at school and most visitors will have been and gone. So what next?
Espero que, estando en casa o lejos de ella, todos hayáis disfrutado las vacaciones de verano y el clima. Para el momento en que leáis esto los niños estarán de vuelta en la escuela y la mayoría de los visitantes se habrá ido. ¿Y ahora qué?
Well there are September Ferias in Fuente de Piedra and Mollina to celebrate that will prolong the summer months and then hopefully everything will soon get back to normal. Brexit is still the main topic of conversation and which a lot of expats are concerned about, so the article on page 26 is a must read. The last couple of months have seen several friends, neighbours and relatives suffer illnesses, operations and stays in hospital, and also a few more deaths locally so we send heartfelt condolences and get well wishes to all those concerned. Until the next time
Bien, hay Ferias de Septiembre a celebrarse en Fuente de Piedra y Mollina que prolongarán los meses de verano, y entonces todo pronto volverá a la normalidad. El Brexit es todavía el mayor tema de conversación y el que preocupa a muchos expatriados, así que el artículo de la página 26 hay que leerlo. Los últimos meses han visto cómo varios amigos, vecinos y familiares han sufrido enfermedades, operaciones, pérdidas, hospitalizaciones y también algunas muertes, es por ello que enviamos nuestras más sentidas condolencias y deseos de recuperación a quienes corresponda. Hasta la próxima
Diane
Diana
Send your Info to: Diane: Tel: 659991743 E-mail: info@inlandsolutions.es Website: www.inlandsolutions.es face book: inland solutions
Envíe su información a: Diana: Mov: 659991743 E-mail: info@inlandsolutions.es Pagina Web: www.inlandsolutions.es facebook: inland solutions
Deposito Legal: MA-577-2013 Copyright ©2013 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced without prior written approval by the owner. For further information, please email info@inlandsolutions.es All articles, editorials and advertisements are published in good faith, for informational purposes and are in no way a substitute for legal advice. Inland Solutions Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of publications and advertisements contained within the magazine and also no warranty or endorsement is express or implied. We do not accept any duty of care to anyone who uses or intends to rely upon any material in this publication.
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Calling All Areas
Tel - 659 991 743 4 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
Gareth Bale During the 2010/11 Champions League campaign Gareth Bale announced his arrival on the big stage. And how! The then Tottenham Hotspur leftback tormented Inter Milan’s Maicon on the right side of the Nerazzurri all night and went on to score a commendable hat-trick at the San Siro. If there ever was an example of a one-man show in a football match, this game was it. The story was no different in the second leg at White Hart Lane as Bale continued the torment of Maicon for another 90 minutes. Although the Welshman failed to get on the score sheet his stamp was all over Spurs’ 3-1 win over the Italians. Those two performances saw Bale’s stock rise and his 11 goals and as many assists through the course of the 2010/11 season saw him being named PFA Players’ Player of the Year as well as in the UEFA Team of the Year in 2011. The following season Bale improved his numbers further and contributed 13 goals and 17 assists to Spurs’ cause to keep them in the hunt for a Champions League spot. As his performances improved it proved harder for the north London outfit to keep hold of their talismanic figure, however, they managed to keep him for another season. In the 2012/13 campaign Bale outdid his previous performances and went on to notch an astonishing 26 goals and 15 assists across all competitions. His performance through the course of the season didn’t go unnoticed at the year-end awards as he created history by becoming only the second player in history to win the PFA Young Player of the Year and the FWA Footballer of the Year award in the same year. His astonishing displays made it harder for Tottenham Hotspur to keep hold of their man amidst growing interests from Real Madrid and Manchester United. Daniel Levy, the Chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, wasn’t one to let go of his prize possession for anything less than a world record sum. It was a protracted saga for Bale’s signature as Real Madrid tried to lower Spurs’ asking price. However, Levy played firm and Bale eventually signed for a world record transfer fee of €100.8 million (£85.1 million). He enjoyed a dream opening season at the Santiago Bernabeu, scoring the decisive goal in the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in Lisbon to help Real Madrid end their long wait for the coveted Decima. Before the Champions League final he had scored one of the goals of the season as he made a fool of Barcelona defender Marc Bartra in the Copa del Rey final to score the winner. Two trophies in his first season in Spain were a healthy return and probably more than he wished for.
Bale was instrumental in helping the Wales national team qualify for their first major international tournament since 1958 as he led them to the finals of the 2016 European Championship. They were one of the stories of the tournament proper, reaching the semi-final of the competition before bowing out to the eventual champions Portugal.
Interesting Articles
Last season, he scored 19 times and assisted a further 15 goals to help Real Madrid to another Champions League title.
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 5
Calling All Areas Estimados Clientes; Seguimos trabajando para mejorar, por lo que esperamos que los cambios llevados a cabo sean de su agrado y logren mejorar la imagen de nuestra marca. Seguimos trabajando para ofrecerles la mejor relación precio/producto. Seguimos trabajando para que se sientan como en casa. Seguimos con nuestras campañas de regalos: Jamones, Tablets, Cámaras Go Pro, Relojes... SEGUIMOS: REPOSTANDO ENERGIA POSITIVA En esta ocasión, dejaremos que las imágenes que acompañamos a esta publicación hablen por sí solas del valor de nuestros productos.
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Interesting Articles
How Your Actions Can Lead to Dog Bites It is important to realize that dogs who bite should not be labelled “bad” or “mean.” There are a lot of emotions and baggage attached to those powerful words. Instead, understand that when a dog is placed in what he perceives as an uncomfortable situation, just like a person, he will try to avoid it or retreat. If his avenues of escape are blocked, then a dog may exhibit aggressive behaviour, and, if the dog feels very threatened, it may escalate to biting. While, as always, you’ll want to be sure to consult your veterinarian for advice to rule out the possibility that an underlying physical problem may be contributing to your dog’s behaviour, sometimes the reason for the bite is that you simply didn’t “hear” what your dog was saying. In this article, I’m going to provide you with some insight as to the many ways we can unwittingly make our dogs feel “threatened.” I’ll provide you with some tips to help avoid these situations and, hopefully, prevent a bite in the first place. If your dog is already exhibiting fearful or severely aggressive behaviour, such as snapping, lunging and biting, then you need to seek professional help immediately. Here is one common situation that is easily avoided. There is a popular misperception in the dog world in which owners are often led to believe that they need to prove that they are the "alpha" in the family and must act accordingly. This kind of aggressive human behaviour, however, can be counterproductive. Here’s why: Canines have developed a social hierarchy in the wild to avoid physical confrontation and resolve conflict with minimal injuries. Ear, tail and head positions, as well as eye contact (or the lack of it), all convey subtle but important information to other animals of the same species. Think of the body language that your dog displays when you talk to him or reach out to pet him. Most dogs will place their ears to the side, lower their heads slightly and blink or avert their gaze entirely. These are submissive signals that are used to avoid conflict. When a dog is constantly bombarded with interactions by the owner — or sometimes by multiple family members — that he perceives are challenging or threatening, he may reach a point where he can no longer cope and may respond aggressively. So, for example, don’t try to play “alpha” by putting your hand in your dog’s food bowl or moving it around while he is eating. Respect Your Dog‘s Personal Space Some dogs do not enjoy being hugged or kissed on the face. Humans tend to express their affection in hugs and kisses, but this is not how dogs normally express it. While some dogs have learned to accept or even enjoy the kind of attention their owners give them, others may not like being hugged, because they may feel restrained and/or “trapped.” When we kiss them, they may bite to get away from us or to keep our “threatening” faces from getting too close to theirs. Put yourself in their shoes — no matter how much you love your spouse, partner or child, would you want his face to be one inch away from yours whenever you are interacting with him? Usually our dogs have already told us to back off via their body language, such as ears pulled back, avoiding eye contact and pulling away. When we ignore these signs, the dog may feel pushed to the point of exhibiting more intense defensive behaviour, such as barking, growling, snarling, snapping and then, finally, biting. Some dogs may skip all the earlier signs and escalate right to biting. After repeated episodes of an owner getting too close for comfort, a dog may resort to biting as his first action, since he knows his warning signals will be ignored. Now your dog has learned to not exhibit any warning signs at all. In my experience, people commonly say that their dogs did not give them any warning, when in fact their dogs had been crying out for help and relief long before the bite incidents ever occurred.
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Respect Your Dog‘s “Downtime” If a dog exhibits any type of aggressive behaviour when disturbed while lying down or sleeping, such as growling or snapping, then you must refrain from making contact. When we are sleeping, we are at our most vulnerable. Many dogs, like people, need their own space to recover from the day’s events. Some dogs, just like people, can get really startled when disturbed from a deep sleep. For example, one morning my husband had to leave early, and he leaned over to kiss my cheek while I was still sleeping. I woke up startled, because I did not expect it. Both people and dogs may react instinctively in these kinds of situations, and with dogs, that reaction is sometimes a bite. That’s why I follow the old saying, “Let sleeping dogs lie.” I respect that my dog wants to sleep undisturbed and won’t bother him. Instead, I recommend owners call their dogs over to them for attention. I use positive reinforcement to teach the dog to go lie down on his own bed and make sure everyone understands to leave the dog alone when he is on his bed. That way the dog is not underfoot or lying under furniture where family members may unwittingly disturb him. “That‘s Mine!” Many dogs will exhibit aggressive behaviour when another dog or person tries to take a valuable item away from them. The item may be a toy, food found on the ground, the owner’s sock or even just a tissue. The perceived value may be only in the dog’s eyes. When this occurs, I never have people confront their dogs. Instead, I work on gaining the dog’s trust. We work on teaching the dog that the owner has more valuable items, and, if he relinquishes the item he currently possess, he will get something of equal or greater value. Don’t assume the attitude that you, the owner, should be able to take any and all items away. Many dogs are worried when they are eating that someone will take away their food, whether it is their kibble or a tasty treat. For this reason, I don´t like interfering with a puppy or dog while he is eating. However, if you, the owner, cannot walk past your dog during a meal without the dog exhibiting aggressive behaviour toward you, then we have an issue that needs to be addressed by speaking with your veterinarian. Until professional help can be obtained, the dog should be placed in another room or secured area where he will be undisturbed while enjoying his food or treats.
By Dr. Wailani Sung | Vetsreet.com
Interesting Articles
As you can see, various factors can contribute to a situation in which your dog can exhibit aggressive behaviour. Remember that aggressive behaviour is a distance-increasing behaviour. The dog wants you to leave him alone or back away and have you stop exhibiting what he perceives as threatening postures or gestures toward him. Please pay attention to your dog’s body language. If your dog gives you warning prior to a bite, such as growling, lip-licking, avoiding eye contact, snarling, ears averted to the side or pulled all the way back, tail tucked or is moving away, give your dog space. Many of the situations that provoke aggressive behaviour can be avoided or managed to help reduce the risk of bites before they ever occur.
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 9
What’s On Guide
What’s On Guide Five Rivers Indian Restaurant: Now open at Calle Pepin Acuñas 1,Fuente de Piedra for Indian Meals, Pizzas and Take Aways . Tel Paul: 632 635 419
The Amigas de Casa meet on the second Thursday of every month, 11 - 1 at Talillas Bar/Restaurant in Vva del Trabuco. It's a very friendly, informal group for English speaking women. Every month we have a different speaker or demonstrator. For more info call Liz Marsh on 952 031 478 or email raylizpantano@gmail.com
Saydo Hotel, Mollina, English market every Wednesday from 9 am to 2 pm, Thursday Quiz nights 8 pm- late
British Legion meetings take place every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at Parque Las Vina, Mollina at 11am.
The Friendly Club meets on the 1st Tuesday of every month except August at The Camping Restaurant, Calle Campillos, Fuente de Piedra at 11 am. We hold a quiz, Raffle, Book Exchange, and have a speaker.
La Posada Mobile Home Park, Alameda: Quiz Mondays 8.30pm - Bingo Thursday 8.30pm
THE WANDERERS. If you have a motorhome, caravan or tent and would like to join like minded people to rally far & wide, then The Wanderers might be for you. We are a group of friendly campers who aim to rally together approx 8 times a year. If the idea appeals to you, contact us for more details by sending an e-mail to campingwanderers@gmail.com or contact Peter Harrison on 634 366 922
Friday Walking Group walk every other week on a Friday, normally short walks that take about an hour and a half at a gentle pace, and normally dog friendly. If people would like e mails sent to them about forthcoming walks they can e mail Margaret at marg_magnall@hotmail.com or tel 646 354 007
Monthly Wellness Clinics with a British Trained Nurse take place at Diane's Hair & Beauty Studio in Fuente de Piedra. Please book your appointments now for all regular health checks and any medical issues in private - book early as appointments are limited.
Car Boot Sale Held every 2nd Sunday of the month in the Plaza at Fuente de Piedra, €5 per stall, starts at 10am
Next clinics are Monday 5th September and Monday 10th October. Tel: Sarah 657 606 373 or Diane 659 991 743
Rastro El Domingo 12 de Junio, y Domingo 12 de Julio en la Plaza en Fuente de Piedra, €5 cada puesto, a las 10.00 Contact Hilary 634 271 330 for more info
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Local Markets Sunday: Alameda, Casariche Monday: Archidona, Osuna Tuesday: Mollina, Antequera, Campillos, Iznajar Wednesday: Alameda, Saydo Park Mollina, Camping La Vinuela, La Vinuela Thursday: Humilladero, Ecija, Villanueva de Tapia Friday: Fuente de Piedra, Lucena, Puente Geníl, Villanueva de Algaidas Saturday: Aguadulce
Quality Second Hand Cars and After Sales Service Guaranteed P.I. C/ Miguel Ángel Blanco 2, 29520 Fuente de Piedra, Málaga Tel-Fax: 952 73 55 32 - Móvil: 651 86 02 33 pacomartinez33@hotmail.com
Jade’s K9 Care Home Care for Your Four Legged Friends Doggy Day Care Playtime with new and old friends
Sleepovers For your long days out and nights away
Holidays So you can enjoy yours
Pamper Your Pet Full grooming service available
Call Charmaine - # 617 71 95 12
Reach Out To Your Customers Mov - 659991743 Email - info@inlandsolutions.es
Calling All Areas
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Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 11
Stories
Just Young Enough “Tell me they’re not still chasing us,” Jordan said as he and Shannon ran down the street, holding hands. “Of course they are,” Shannon replied, slightly breathless as she kept up with him, stride for stride. “Good thing I didn’t jog this morning, I guess. My knees would be killing me by now,” he said, panting as they turned a corner and spotted a few shops on the somewhat deserted street. Breathing heavily, he pushed open the door of the closest one and dragged Shannon after him, closing it behind them. He peered through the door to see a group of people running by, screaming his name. “If Henry were here, he’d be rolling on the floor with laughter. I thought I’d left that life behind me,” Jordan groused as he pulled Shannon forward to kiss the top of her hair. Shannon laughed as she drew back, using a handkerchief from her purse to dab at the sweat on her face and neck. “He’d probably take video of the whole thing and post it online somewhere.” Jordan sighed. “That would be just like Henry.” “May I help you?” said a voice behind them, and Jordan turned to see a short woman with medium-length hair streaked with grey smiling politely at him. Slightly embarrassed, he replied, “Sorry, we were trying to get away from...well, it doesn’t matter now. Apologies for barging in like that.” Before they could leave, however, Shannon dragged him over to a counter that displayed unique jewellery. She had a thing for necklaces and had lost count of just how many she owned. “I want to look at that one, with the amethyst,” she said, pointing to the piece in question. Jordan squeezed her hand and left her to it, walking around the tiny shop and absent-mindedly viewing the various trinkets that were arranged creatively to catch the eye. His thoughts drifted to his late wife Elaine and what she would have thought about his starting over again in music and love. She would probably have cheered him on while poking gentle fun. He still missed her fiercely, but meeting Shannon had eased the pain and given him a new lease on life. Shannon seemed to understand that he was looking for something simple and stress-free, for the moment, and he appreciated that, more than she could ever know. Eventually Jordan wandered back to where Shannon had just been given a receipt and a small cloth bag with her purchase. “Thank you,” the sales woman said with a smile. Shannon waved and left with Jordan right behind her. The streets seemed clear of any lingering fans so they were able to walk back to the hotel in relative peace. “You think they’ll leave us alone long enough to actually enjoy our weekend together?” he asked as they entered the lobby of the Ritz Carlton. “I’d like to be able to take you to dinner tonight without being mobbed. This must be tiresome for you, and I’m sorry.” She laughed. “Are you kidding? I’m having the time of my life! This is the best vacation I’ve had in a long time, and I get to spend it with you and few crazy stalkers. And I have a mean left hook should it be needed.” “I don’t know why you’re so cheerful,” he replied as he led her into the hotel’s restaurant so they could have some lunch. “It’s tedious.” “Poor baby,” she said, patting his cheek before he held out a chair for her to sit. “I’d appreciate a little support, you know?” he mumbled as he sat and a waiter immediately came over to take their drinks order.
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“Please. You know you love it, deep down,” Shannon said when the waiter left. “Isn’t it nice to have validation that you’re still young enough to be a sex symbol, though age hardly matters in that regard? Look at Sophia Loren or Sean Connery.” She nudged his ankle with her shoe and blew him a kiss. Jordan huffed but made no comment, hiding a smile as he perused the menu. It was ridiculous, the things that blogs and music sites and whatnot were saying about him. He just wanted to make good music. Why did sex appeal or his “chiselled cheeks” and all that rot have to get in the way and muck things up? “Sweetheart,” Shannon said softly covering his hand with hers for a moment, “Your first album in years is selling like wildfire. Unless you want to become a hermit, this is your life for the moment.” Then she grinned. “Of course, we could get you a wig, hat and huge sunglasses. Would that work?” “Funny.” But he still didn’t want to let it go. “Why did I let you and Henry talk me into doing this? And whose brilliant idea was it to put my face on the album cover?” “Calm down. It resonated with your older fans and attracted a younger crowd. It appealed to all generations. You are gifted, Jordan, and the world is simply showing its appreciation.” He gave in. “I know. It just feels weird sometimes, that’s all.” “Actually, what’s weird is the ahi tuna that they served yesterday. It was so dry. I really should take the chef to task again.” Jordan chuckled, finally coming out of his funk. “Leave the poor man alone. One tirade was enough. They’re all shaking in their boots now. Not everyone is up to your high standards, you know. The food is edible, so deal.” She stuck out her tongue before adding, “How about a canoe ride this afternoon? I’ll row because we don’t want anything to happen to those famous hands of yours before tomorrow night’s concert.” She snickered when Jordan scowled at her. “We don’t want to disappoint your rabid fans, do we? You’re their real-life guitar hero.” She just laughed when he said, “Enough already.” **** Their meal was lovely, despite Shannon’s mild complaints about texture or flavour. Jordan knew that most of the reason she did that was to take his mind off things. By the time they were sitting in the canoe, he was relaxed enough to enjoy the view. “I don’t know why you put up with me. Do you think I’m ungrateful?” “No, Jordan. I think you’re a man who thought the rock and roll life was behind him, and was proved wrong. You’re just going through an adjustment period. You’ll be fine.” “Yes, I will, as long as you’re here to bludgeon me in the head from time to time and keep me on the straight and narrow.” “Happy to do it.” She steered the canoe toward an embankment where in the distance he could see a picnic basket and a blanket on the grass. “I had someone prepare something for us.” “Didn’t we just eat?” “Yes, but this is to celebrate six months together as...whatever we are. I’m enjoying it. Are you?”
She smiled. “Can’t wait.”
Cuentos
“Absolutely. And I’ll be sure to thank you nicely for all this later on.”
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Fuente de Piedra
Fuente de Piedra Fun Dog Show 2016
Best in Show was Chato the Boxer who is only 9 months old 2nd Best in Show was Thor a German Shepherd who is 3 years old 3rd Best in Show was Nilo a Rough Collie who is 4 years old El mejor en la Muestra era Chato el Embalador que sólo es 9 meses viejo 2 eran el más Mejor en la Muestra Thor un Pastor alemán que tiene 3 años 3 eran el más Mejor en la Muestra Nilo un Perro de pastor Áspero que tiene 4 años
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Calling All Areas Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 15
Puzzles / Rompecabezas ACROSS 1. Levelled 6. Celebration 10. Baby buggy 14. Not below 15. X X X X 16. Fit 17. Army doctor 18. Leave in a hurry 19. Death notice 20. Found on cave
ceilings 22. Kid 23. Plunder 24. Worn away 26. Against 30. Suffering 31. Cup 32. Give temporarily 33. Terminates 35. Anagram of "Bards"
39. Die down 41. Molasses 43. Beginning 44. Calamitous 46. Ship's front 47. Japanese apricot 49. Born as 50. Axed 51. Prawn 54. Possess 56. Anguish
57. Nonsectarian 63. Constellation bear 64. Draw near 65. African virus 66. Encounter 67. Winglike 68. Sources of ore 69. Feudal worker 70. Tins 71. Donkeys
DOWN 1. Adult male sheep 2. Assist in crime 3. Fizzy drink 4. Wicked 5. Sticker 6. Decorated 7. Aroused 8. Nipple 9. High regard
10. Picture 11. Fanatical 12. Similar 13. Doled out 21. Intimidated 25. Boorish 26. As well 27. Person, place or thing 28. Checks
29. Sow 34. Pennants 36. Unit of land 37. Hard punch 38. Stitched 40. Bit of gossip 42. Female ruff 45. Cold-blooded 48. Vomitive 51. Foam
52. Rabbits 53. Ascended 55. Colonic 58. Soft drink 59. Nile bird 60. Defrauds 61. Away from the wind 62. Young girl
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NOMBRES MASCULINOS Felipe Francisco Gonzalo Gustavo Héctor Ignacio Isidoro Jaime Jesús
Lucas Manuel Nicolás Rafael Roberto Santiago Victor
Puzzles / Rompecabezas
Abelardo Adán Blas Cesar Cristóbal David Domingo Eladio Eloy
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Interesting Articles
Expectations by Colette O’Connor If I was a fifteen-year-old I could call these recollections ‘My Diary’ but who am I kidding? Yes, there are similarities but as an adult, being results-oriented,with each trip there comes an air of expectation. I’m leaving London to look at properties in Spain, specifically properties in the Andalusian area. What am I expecting? With a miniscule budget, the Brexit vote two days gone and news of a leftist, grassroots party called Podemospossiblyabout to take the country by storm, my Expectation Barometer has moved from optimistic to cautious; with these uncertain times, which may completely scupper my plans, I realise that I have to approach the trip with a calm and philosophical air. The plan is to stay in a friend’s house - a sweet retreat, I soon discover- in return for helping out in her brother’s restaurant. Not a problem I tell myself, and collecting the hire car I set off for Fuente de Piedra, a small Spanish village just north of Antequera. Having read a little about the village I know that it lies in a dry basin close to the wetland called the Laguna de Fuente Piedra, home to one of the largest populations of flamingoes in Europe. I feel excited about seeing these beautiful, slender and quite delicate-looking birds as I last saw flamingoes on such a large scale many years ago, in Africa, when my young daughter referred to them as ‘flingoes’. It’s late night when I pull into the village but not late Spanish time; there are plenty of people out walking, the slow and gentle pace reflects, what I come to recognise as, the pace of the village. I walk into the restaurant and am immediately given a warm welcome by the owner and chef, Paul, and Diane, who runs the front of house. I’m offered a tapas, or something to eat? Over the next few days I settle into the routine of working in the restaurant from late morning to mid-afternoon, serving breakfast and lunch, and again in the evening when people come for dinner. Paul serves an excellent selection of Indian dishes and, being a vegetarian, I can’t wait to try a few. The work itself seems easy enough – how hard can this be? - after all, I’m enthusiastic, hard working and generally quite sensible but years of being teetotal and a scant knowledge of Spanish show through. To add to this I find my knowledge of bar etiquette quite lacking: pulling pints, opening bottles of wine and pricing up the bar tab. However, as each day dawns I am determined to tackle the restaurant work con gusto! Between shifts when the streets are quietI explore the typically Andaluz village with its whitewashed houses and quaint wrought iron balconies. The only church, built in 1891, is the Virgen de las Virtudes, the patron saint of the village. The architecture is in the Neo-Mudéjar style - a type of Moorish Revivalist architecture –depicted in the typical horseshoe arches in the belfry tower and Neo-Gothic features on the brickwork. I cautiously open the door and peer inside and, although curious, I quickly withdraw from the semi-darkness leaving the small congregation to their prayers; evocative scents follow me down the steps. I email and call the agents and people I’ve been in contact with to set up viewings and feel overwhelmed by the number of properties and the distances I have to travel. I arrange with Paul to be out of the restaurant on Thursdays and Sundays as the appointments to view come through thick and fast. The viewings are definitely the hardest part of my trip as my mind races through options and questions flood in: Could I live in this village? Is this townhouse too far from friends in Malaga? Is there too much work to do to this property to make the purchase worthwhile? On and on the questions flow. I make notes, chart distances, spend hours in the car and walk through towns and villages, up and down alleyways, often in the blistering heat of the day! Mad Dogs and Englishmen?
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I whittle the huge range of possibilities down to a few properties but the unwelcome Brexit news has stunned the local population and the mood, especially among the English, is unusually sombre. Behind the bar, I hear different views expressed. ‘I’m devastated, this is not good news,’ said an expat. ‘It’s such a shock – what were they thinking?’ she added. Her husband nods. ‘I’d never go back to the UK anyway, not with their immigration policy, and they only have three boats policing the channel!’A young couple, visiting for three weeks, seems uneasy at the anger expressed. ‘Well, we’re not solving problems with the Brussels bureaucracy, something had to be done, 'the man says. And on.And on. The night heats up in more ways than one and the air becomes sticky and moist. As I drive home the moonlight, la luna hermosa, shimmers as it plays across the village rooftops and distant night fields. Early Sunday morning and I’m flying along the highway with voices and opinions flowing through my mind. I look out at the landscape and see I’m travelling through, and yet above, acres of wheat stubble with hay bales dotted in the manner of Van Gogh. The lands lie sinuously close to olive plantations, pushing up and into the foothillls of the Sierra del Torcal, hazy blue-purple in the early morning. The scene takes my breath away – how lucky I am to be driving through this absolutely beautiful land, rugged in a way that reminds me of Africa, once my home. After a trip to Antequera, which I love, I draw close to the Fuente de Piedra turnoff. I look towards the Laguna expecting to see a pink haze as the greater flamingo wade through the shallow saltwater but the promised, glorious oasis is merely a saltpan; there are no birds, there is no water, there is no lagoon. I later hear that underwater springs that feed the lake have dried up due to the lack of rain and the prospect of seeing the flamingoes,on this trip, disappears. I press on towards the village and pass three lone burros, heads hanging in the heat; my heart melts. Will I get time to go to the donkey sanctuary? I guess not as I’m off, yet again, to the restaurant. It’s another night of political discussion. This time the Spanish customers are talking about the results of the recent election. Rajoy has won most seats but is short of a majority and the vote has failed to break the December deadlock. A man in his early thirties tentatively suggests that without Unidos Podemos in the driving seat there will be no political change. Another customer feels relieved that Pablo Iglesias didn’t get in. ‘Thank heavens we haven’t got that Marxist in power!’ he says. ‘Look what he did in Venezuela!’ Venezuela? I had heard a rumour that money had changed hands between a think tank allied to Podemos and the Venezuelan government, but nothing proved. For the moment the bar buzz loudly expresses their relief that they have escaped a leftwing government, even if it leaves them in political limbo. Interesting Articles
It’s late and the last few customers, some of whom I feel a strange affinity for, especially two elderly Spanish people, bid us all ‘Luego’ and disappear into the quiet street. I watch them walk through the moonlight and a sudden ‘ping’ sounds loud in the empty space; my phone tells me that my family are waiting for photos and answers to questions about where I am and what I’m up to. Well…
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 19
Interesting Articles
Luckily, the next day I see a lone rider clip-clopping through the village. He stops outside the bank to chat to a friend. His horse moves back and forth, as if it wants to park.Am I experiencing a surreal Spagetti Western moment? No, just an aspect of rural Andalusian life. I send the photo off, with various others I’ve taken, and a response comes through asking if it’s a one-horse town? Ha ha! But I immediately spy two riders on horses and trump them with that. Ha ha! Drawing close to the date of my departure I’m told that we must prepare for a few busy nights because the Feria de Santiago will be upon us next week. Gosh, where have all the days gone? Have I seen enough properties? Have I done enough research? Undoubtedly not – there will always be so much to learn, so much to see and many, many choices to make. As the crowds draw in from the surrounding districts I am amazed to see people come together to celebrate a religious festival in a way English people seldom do.A Spanish couple who frequent the restaurant are smartly dressed in the Spanish style - of course - andsay they are off to dance. I walk a short distance to the dancing and festivities, a flamboyant and colourful scene where couples sway on the dance floor, and the señoras hermosas, bright dresses swishing with flamenco ease move to the sound of the night music. Many people, too shy to dance perhaps, watch from upright chairs set in a semi-circle. With fans fanning, feet tapping and smiling faces upturned in the arena lighting, they are enjoying the feria in their own special way. I look across to the children’s jumping castle and see a small girl or perhaps four or five, way up in the air. What is more unusual, for me at least, is that she’s dressed in the flamenco tradition, her brightly coloured, many layered, ruffled polka dot dress seems not to bother her as she soars up and down. I see it’s 12.50am but she appears, as do all the other children, to have the energy that only excitement and fun can bring. Back in the restaurant I say a fond farewell to Paul, Diane and Howie (Diane’s husband) and the many people who work with Paul. They are all such lovely people and I feel lucky to have spent this time with them. Some customers are still at the bar and I take a photo to remind me (as if I needed reminding!) that I feel entirely at home, even though I’ve been here less than a month. Early the next morning I head out along the highway. Even the sunflowers are not yet up, their sleepy heads nodding in the morning stillness. The rugged landscape, a soft green, brown and blue, mix with the pink and orange of the rising sun; it all takes my breath away. I drive more slowly than usual as if to keep the scene with me. I realise that moving to Spain will have a profound affect on my life. I feel the need to be within a Spanish community rather than an expat community and yet I know that I must be able to form friendships with people from different backgrounds and cultures, people with different attitudes, speaking different languages. It is this that excites me; creating a new life with new possibilities. I think, also, of my children, scattered around the world. How will that change things for me? Can I do it? Can I be open-minded enough not to expect anything of Spain? Can I just rely on my own sense of commitment and hard work? The car glides down through the valley and up again. As I come over a rise a fresh vista greets me:set against the restless swell of the sea and early morning scudding clouds, a sign that tells me my journey is over: ‘Malaga Airport 25 KM.’
20 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
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Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 21
Entertainments 22 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
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Calling All Areas Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 23
Interesting Articles
The Lamp Post Down Memory Lane It was a standard concrete lamp post, no different from any other but for several summers in the early sixties it played a key role in our street games. When there were only two of us, the lamp post made up the numbers. While one of us skipped, the other turned one end of the rope while the other end was tied around the post. There were three or four children who regularly played by the lamp post. When one moved away she was replaced by the new neighbour. Sometimes other children joined in, bringing the numbers up to half a dozen. To my brother’s annoyance, they were mostly girls and he was frequently excluded. The road was practically empty. Not every house had a car, and if there was a car it was just the one, and when not in use it was parked in the garage or on the drive. Road safety was drummed into us at school and at home and yet our games were rarely interrupted by a passing car. We all had large private gardens with flowers and trees. Mine had a swing rigged up in one of the apple trees. But playing in a garden meant being invited in and that meant crossing enemy territory and running the gauntlet of well-meaning enquiries from mothers, intimidating elder siblings, scary fathers and sometimes grandmothers. And there were rules, like only one guest at a time and the whole hostess/guest routine to contend with. The street was neutral ground and anyone could join in or leave as and when they liked.
Games were played in seasons such as bead swapping, skipping or two ball. But when chase was in season the lamp post came into its own. The two most popular games were Off-ground He and Pom Pom 1,2,3. Whoever was “on” stood at the lamp post counting …..98, 99, 100, coming, ready or not… and it was also “home”. Our hiding places were our front gardens on both sides of the road. Only the gardens of the children actually playing at the time could be used. Trespassing was not allowed. Despite the constant shouts and laughs, running up and down and crossing the road, adults rarely made an appearance. Someone’s mother might treat us to an ice-cream once in a while or step in to settle a dispute, at her daughter’s invitation of course. Only one neighbour regularly asked us to be quiet and that was when her husband, a printer, was sleeping before his night shift. A friend once gave me an old pair of roller skates and my mother made me share them with my brother. Her preferred solution was for us to have one skate each, which was fine while we were learning, but we soon got bored with that. Usually we took it in turns, which meant one of us constantly whining “its my turn now”, until a neighbour rooted out her son’s long forgotten skates for us to use.
24 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
The slope at the bottom of the hill where we lived was fairly gentle and ideal for learning to skate, especially as we never really mastered stopping. As we got bolder we started higher and higher up the hill. Flying down the hill at great speed we would throw out an arm and wrap it round the lamp post to slow us down or swing round it and stop; abruptly flipping onto our toes. The street was our playground from spring until the autumn nights closed in. We were out as soon as we got in from school and stayed out until bedtime, with a break for tea. I used to have to do 15 minutes of piano practice after tea every day. The lamp post stood twenty feet away in a direct line from the middle of my back, where I sat painfully, tunelessly prodding at the keys. My friends could see me through the window. Usually someone would knock at the door, only to be told that Jennifer would be out when she had finished her piano practice. I never made much progress with the piano despite having lessons every week for some seven years. Like learning languages, playing the piano requires practice and motivation. My practice was enforced and my motivation disappeared the moment I realised playing beautifully didn’t happen overnight. They may have only been a few years but those evenings playing on the street were such an important part of growing up. It is so sad that cars parked on both sides of the street, fears of abduction or other dangers mean that many children now-a-days are confined to their gardens. When my children were small we deliberately chose a house with a grassy play area out front where the local children were already playing. Throughout their childhoods my children and their friends occupied this triangle of grass, safe in the knowledge that eyes were always watching and doors were always open, with drinks and biscuits, cotton wool and savlon, ready and waiting. One of the joys of Fuente Piedra is the children playing out in the square on summer evenings. Long may it continue. Jenny Whiteley
Interesting Articles
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Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 25
Out and About With Nick & Mo
It's not over until the fat lady sings It seems like an eternity ago that I woke, along with millions of others, to find that a majority of the British public had followed the advice of Farage and Johnson and the others in the leave camp and voted to leave the European Union. This was and still is a momentous decision both for the UK and for Europe, the result will be felt for years to come, but for those of us who are expats, living outside of the UK in other parts of Europe, the effects could be huge and potentially life changing. Much has already been written about the various possible outcomes for expats, some of it realistic and helpful, but a lot of it, led by some of the more notorious British newspapers, quite sensationalist and unhelpful. Some of the more scaremongering reports have suggested that the expats like us living in Spain will be thrown out and forced to return to the UK and at the same time all Europeans living in the UK will be forced to return to their countries of origin. This is complete nonsense and there is no way that this will happen. British people chose to live happily in Spain long before the UK became a member of the European Community and, whatever happens with the outcome of Brexit they will continue to do so. It would certainly not be in the interests of either Spain or the UK to see a huge exodus of people returning to their respective countries. I think a lot of us spent many hours reassuring Spanish friends and neighbours that we were not about to pack up and leave. Unfortunately I do think that expats are in some ways an 'easy hit' when it comes to saving money and that the current government would not be adverse to making cuts if they feel they can get away with it. What could well happen is that we will see some changes to our lives, some of which will be determined by market forces, but others that may be determined by the respective governments of, in our case, the UK, or Spain. The UK may decide to continue to pay the current amount into the Spanish health care system to enable those expats who qualify to continue receiving free health care. Conversely they may reduce this amount, or cease it altogether, meaning that we would have to pay part of the cost ourselves, or, worse case scenario, pay the total cost via health insurance. The truth is that we just do not know what is going to happen until the negotiations about leaving begin. There is also a lot of fear around the housing market and the effect that Brexit will have upon this. It certainly will not help, as many of those who may have been thinking of moving to places like Spain could well hold fire until they see how the situation develops both in the UK and in Spain. Some estate agents are claiming that they have seen little effect upon the amount of people from the UK wanting to purchase property in Spain, but, while this may be the case, it could equally be the agents talking up the market. Whatever the case we are starting from a fairly low base in terms of property values and market movement so this may not affect us too much and there are, of course, potential buyers from a lot more places than the UK.
26 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
Perhaps the largest noticeable effect so far is the fall in the value of the pound. As I write, one pound will buy 1.16 euros, a fall from 1.34 immediately prior to the vote and indications are that it may well continue to fall for a while yet. While this may not have too much of an effect on someone coming for a week's holiday it will most certainly impact significantly upon the savings and pensions of expats. Added to this is the fact that there is no certainty that the so-called triple lock pensions guarantee will continue after Brexit. This is the guarantee that our pensions will rise in line with inflation, but for the majority of expats in other countries this does not apply and there is a growing feeling that it may be the same in Spain in following Brexit, so I'm afraid that this is yet another wait and see situation. On the other hand the economy in the UK may boom and the value of the pound increase, only time will tell. There is going to be no magic solution to the way ahead for us with regards to what Brexit will bring, but, in my opinion the two worst things to do are to panic and, on the other hand, do nothing and think it will go away, because it will not. The temptation to act in haste is strong in situations like this, particularly with things like private health care. You will not have failed to notice that every other post now on social media such as Facebook seems to be about the advantages of taking out private health care. Now for those who do not qualify for the Spanish state health care, or who prefer private health care this is fine, but it can also be very expensive and beyond the means of a lot of people. The quotes that you see for twenty euros a month are for a healthy child, but you get a quote for someone aged sixty plus, with a preexisting condition and it will be significantly more expensive. The good advice would be to stick with Spanish state health care for as long as you are able. The private companies will still be around in the future to sell you their products should you have to use them. The same “don't panic� warning applies to those thinking of selling up and returning to the UK. If this is something you have thought about carefully and been planning for some time then fine, but if it is a hasty decision, based on the information following Brexit, it needs some careful thought before you make a potentially life changing move, particularly if this involves selling your house here for silly money.
Out and About With Nick & Mo
As we said earlier the option to sit back and pretend that nothing is going to happen is not really an option at all, for the decision to leave the EU has been made and changes will come, in one form or another, it is just a question of when. The one thing that the seemingly protracted negotiations will give us is a little more time to prepare for the changes when we know what they are. Part of this involves checking whether your current paperwork is in order and up to date. Should you have a residencia and if so do you have one? Are you registered on the padron at your local town hall? Should you be a Spanish tax resident and if so are your taxes in order? Ensuring that the basics such as these are all correct will be essential for those thinking of taking Spanish citizenship, but also because they are likely to be scrutinized more carefully in the future. The tax situation is certainly one to keep an eye on as it could well change significantly. No one yet knows what will happen to some of the agreements on taxation that currently exist between the UK and Spain, but some changes at least are very likely. One of these could be around inheritance tax. It is, as with a lot of things in Spain, rather complicated, but in brief the current preferential rate of inheritance tax that is paid by UK citizens could well change after Brexit and we would be paying the standard rate that all Spanish people pay, which is likely to be a lot higher. It is worth keeping an eye on this one as it could mean a substantial financial hit for your relatives. As and when the situation begins to become clearer there will be any number of Spanish solicitors on hand to help guide you through the complexities of this and other situations.
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 27
Out and About With Nick & Mo
In many ways those of us who chose to make our lives here in Spain are now living in limbo, where we know for sure that something is going to happen, but we just don't know what. Unfortunately this situation is likely to persist for a long time, as the latest estimates are that the negotiations could continue until 2019 and even then it will take time for the implementation of any agreed changes. The single most important thing in a situation like this is information. I am not talking about the sensationalist stuff pumped out by some of the newspapers, or the rumours that abound on the social media, but up-to date and accurate information that is going to help us all to make informed decisions about our futures. There are of course already a number of sites relating to the expat situation here in Spain, but the majority of these seem to be focused on giving expats a place to discuss the merits of Brexit, or just somewhere to let off steam. There are also the numerous petitions, the majority started by individuals, to get the result of the vote reversed or declared illegal and, while I am only too keen to sign these, I am doubtful that they will change anything. There is also the excellent CAB Spain and they can be relied upon to provide accurate information as and when they get it and I see that some areas such as Mijas have started their own group to oppose Brexit and to offer help and support to people in that area. Perhaps the best group I have seen so far though is not in Spain at all, but has been formed by expats living in France. It is called RIFT, which stands for Remain In France Together and although initially formed to fight Brexit it has a much broader aim of providing a united voice to be heard by the UK government. RIFT is different from other groups that provide the very necessary purpose of allowing people to have their say about all related issues and is more about seeking constructive suggestions from it's members and to influence any deal made in respect of British citizens living in France. One of the things it is seeking is to lobby for the appointment of a minister for expats in Europe in the British government and this seems to me to be an excellent idea and one that we in Spain could support. RIFT is currently a Facebook group, but is looking to have it's own website. It already has a barrister in the group who is willing to provide legal advice and support to people and would be looking to increase this in the future. While I am not into starting new groups for the sake of it I do believe that something similar to RIFT could be very useful here In Spain, both as a pressure group to make sure that the voice of expats is heard and to ensure that we are not treated as pawns in future negotiations, but also as a medium of providing accurate and up-to-date information to people. Another very important function of a group such as this would be to portray expats in Spain in a more positive and realistic light to help counter some of the more negative stereotypes that we always see in the media. I would be interested in hearing people's views about the idea of a group such as this. As I said at the beginning the UK vote to leave Europe is going to affect everyone, but in particular, expats more than most. We can panic and make decisions that we may later come to regret, or join the ranks of those who like to pretend that nothing has happened and it will all turn out right in the end. I am for a middle path. I am, like most people worried, but I am not going to be panicked into any knee-jerk decisions and while I do hope that it will all turn out alright in the end, I think it will have the best chance of doing so if we all take what actions we can to influence our future. The fat lady still has not started singing, but maybe when she finally does we can at least have some influence on the song she sings.
28 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
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Calling All Areas Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 29
Puzzles / Rompecabezas
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30 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016
Directory of Advertisers / La Guía Antequera Swimming Pools: Quality Pools, All Services Undertaken see back page Tel: 952 701 604 Restaurants: Cafe/Bar Amapola, La Veronica Centre, Open all day Dentists: Corporacion Dental, Calle Duranes, 10, Tel: 951 249 274
Fuente de Piedra Hairdresser's: Peluqueria Diana, Calle La Iglesia15, Tel: 659 991 743 Restaurants: Five Rivers Indian Take Away, C/ Pepin Acunas Tel: 632 635 419
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Bar Tejada Plaza De La Constitución, 10 Tel: 952735332
Petrol Stations: Limonar Petrol Station, Carretera N334,Mollina
Estate Agents Sinergia Inmobiliaria C/ Antequera 2 Bajo Tel: 952 736 136
Kennels: Jade's K9 , Mollina Tel: 617 719 512
2nd hand Cars: Paco Martinez Tel: 952 735 532 Mob: 651 860 233 Travel Agents: Fergoviajes Avenida Andalucia, 68 Tel: 952 735 339
Builders: Reform Specialists: Tel: 657 365 916
Car Repairs : General Mechanic, Bodywork, Paint Repair Taller el Rayo, Las Viñas Industrial Estate Tel: 952747961 Hotels: Saydo Hotel, Tel: 952740475 Home Improvements: Transolmedo Home Improvements Tel: 952 740 371
Online Absolute Andalucia Estate Agent www.absoluteandalucia.co.uk Tel: 684 067 251
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Inland Computer Services, Calle El Progreso, 12b bajo, Mollina Tel: 954 323 284
Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016 - 31
32 - Inland Solutions Magazine - September/October 2016 Septiembre/Octubre 2016