EXPAT Lifestyle MAGAZINE
July 2022
Issue 8
Step into summer! TALKING WINE
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Letter from the Editor – Moira Carmenate
with Moira Carmenate
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MOIRA’S KITCHEN
Hello I hope you are all surviving the heat.
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SAMARITANS IN SPAIN
10 - 11
TALKING WELLBEING with The Elite Wellness Group
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LOOKING AFTER FLOWERS with Yaraslava Garmashevska
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TALKING LEGAL with Costasea Legal Services
BEAUTIFUL BLANCA BEACHES
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with Lola Culsan & John Weller
‘MOORS & CHRISTIANS’ IS BACK! 18
with Turisme Guardamar
TALKING PROPERTY
20 - 21
with John Clark, The Sapphire Group
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with Simon Wade
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ENTERTAINMENT with Richie Sparks of BIG FM
with The Tipsy Tortoise, Formentera
Furthermore, AEMET, The State Meteorological Agency for the Spanish Government, predicts that July and August will see the highest temperatures recorded in Spain over a 30-year period. With that in mind, I decided it was best to postpone our Lifestyle show at La Laguna Hotel in July and rearrange it for later in the year when it will be cooler. From a health and safety perspective, we didn’t want exhibitors or visitors suffering in what is predicted to be suffocating temperatures. Keeping cool in the summer months is not only necessary for your comfort, but also for your health and wellbeing. Here are a few tips for surviving the heat:
CLASSIC FILM REVIEW
WHAT’S ON GUIDE
Temperatures hit record highs in June and some regions faced a scorching 44 degrees, the hottest on record for June.
26 - 27
READER’S CONTRIBUTION with The Golf Doctor
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Stay in an air-conditioned place, take cool showers frequently and limit outdoor activity to when it is coolest – in the morning or evening. Cut down on outdoor exercise and drink more water as sweating removes salt and minerals from your body. Fundamentally, never leave children or animals in a car, even if windows are open. If you have elderly neighbours – regularly check they are ok. In summary, stay safe but enjoy the summer. Love Moira
Contact Us
Our Experts
The Expat Centre, Calle de Villena 12 Dona Pepa, Ciudad Quesada, 03170 ALICANTE Tel. +34 865 668 596
Legal - Costasea Legal Advisors Health - Apple Hearing & Healthcare Wellbeing – The Elite Wellness Group Property - Sapphire Properties & OP Group Spain Gastronomy – Ari & Rose Stein, Paprika Restaurant Entertainment – Richie Sparks, Big Radio Spain Classic Films – Simon Wade
Editor Moira@expatlifestyle.es Advertising Simon@expatlifestyle.es Design Simon@expatlifestyle.es Admin Tracy@expatlifestyle.es
Expat Lifestyle Magazine is published by The Expat Centre. Whilst the publisher has taken all reasonable precautions and effort to ensure the accuracy of material contained in this magazine at the time of publishing, no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage will be assumed by The Expat Centre or its employees. All conditions, rates, specifications and policies are subject to change without notice. Expressed or implied authors’ and advertisers’ opinions are not necessarily those of the editor and/or publisher. All material produced and/or published by Expat Lifestyle Magazine in electronic, printed or other format is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the express written permission of the publisher. The advertiser assumes all responsibility for attaining copyright permission for any material not produced by Expat Lifestyle Magazine.
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TALKING WINE
with Moira Carmenate
VERDEJO – A REFRESHING TASTE OF SUMMER As summer continues, there is nothing nicer than a chilled glass of white wine as you relax by the pool or at the beach. An uncommon, light-bodied white wine you might like to try is Verdejo. The wine is an outstanding alternative to wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio with flavors of lime, lemon, grapefruit, grass, fennel, and citrus blossom. Verdejo is a variety of wine grape grown in the Rueda region of Spain. The grape originated in North Africa and came to Rueda around the 11th Century. Verdejo was generally used to make strongly oxidized, fortified wine. In the 1970s, the winemakers, Marqués de Riscal, began to develop a fresher style of wine using the Verdejo grape. In 1980, white wines from the Rueda region, located in the Community of Castille and Leon, were recognized by a Denominación de Origen (DO). Rueda is one of Spain's leading wine regions and is known primarily for its white wines based on the Verdejo grape. Wines designated "Rueda Verdejo" must contain 85% Verdejo although they are often 100% Verdejo. Verdejo grapes are generally harvested at night. This means that the grapes enter the cellar at the lower night-time temperature, instead of the higher daytime temperature. Lower temperatures mean less oxidation or browning of the skin resulting in a wine which is often smooth and aromatic.
Unlike most whites, Verdejo continues to improve over several years of bottle-aging, where it gains a rich texture and flavors of toasted almonds, supported by sparkly acidity. Although the name Verdejo is similar to the Portuguese grape, Verdelho, it is not the same grape – so make sure you pick up the correct bottle. Is Verdejo wine sweet or dry? Verdejo is known for its light body, lack of sweetness, and dominant lime flavour. The wine also has a pronounced acidity, making it a very crisp and dry white wine which is wonderfully refreshing in summer. Pair a bottle of Rueda Verdejo with shellfish, chicken, fresh cheeses, vegetables, spicy foods, or salad — or just enjoy it on its own on a hot day!
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MOIRA’S KITCHEN with Moira Carmenate, Expat Lifestyle editor
Super Easy Ham and Chicken Terrine Ingredients • 1 large ham hock • 1 large uncooked chicken breast • 1 stalk fresh celery chopped • 1 medium fresh carrot chopped • 1 garlic clove peeled • ½ small onion peeled and chopped • 3 bay leaves
• • • • • •
1 tbsp black peppercorns 4 handfuls fresh parsley chopped 2 tbsp salt 1 chicken stock cube 1 small pack gelatin powder Cold water
Method 1. In a large oven proof pan, put ham hock, celery, carrot, garlic, onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and cover with cold water. 2. Bring the ingredients to boil for 10 minutes, add the chicken stock and boil for further 5 minutes. 3. Transfer the covered pan to oven, 140 degrees, and leave it to slowly cook for 3 to 4 hours, depending on size of ham hock. You will know it is ready as meat will fall off the bone. Remove ham and set aside to cool. Place the chicken breast into the stock and poach for about 15 minutes. Remove from liquid. 4. Strain stock and get rid of the vegetables. 5. Bring the stock back to boil and then simmer for 30 minutes to reduce the stock and intensify the flavour. Adjust seasoning adding salt and pepper if necessary. When stock is hot, not boiling, gently mix in the gelatine powder and dissolve then allow stock to cool.
6.
Remove ham from bone discarding any fat. Shred chicken. Line loaf tin with cling film, leaving good overlap. 7. Gently ladle in small amount of the cooled stock to coat the bottom of your tin. 8. Add layer of chopped parsley and gently add a layer of shredded ham and chicken on top. Gently add another layer of stock, then another layer of ham and chicken until you have used up all the meat. If you add too much liquid everything will be floating, so just take it easy – add slowly and gently at each layer. 9. Cover completely with cling film and put in fridge – ideally overnight. 10. When ready to serve, gently open clingfilm, invert your tin onto serving plate, remove cling film. Enjoy cold with salad or some homemade piccalilli.
Indian Spiced Piccalilli Ingredients • 1 cauliflower • Radishes • Green Beans • Chopped red onion • Red chili • 2 tbsp salt • 2 tbsp oil • 2 Bay leaves 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
• • • • • • •
2 tbsp mustard powder 2 tbsp turmeric 2 tbsp cumin 4 tbsp flour 1 tbsp mango chutney 6 tbsp sugar 500ml white wine vinegar
Method Gently break the cauliflower into little florets and place in large bowl of cold water. Dice radishes, green beans, red onion, and chili and add to the cauliflower. Make sure all the vegetables are completely covered in water and add salt. Leave to soak in the brine for at least an hour – although ideally overnight. Add 2 tbsp oil to large pan and heat with mustard seeds, powder, turmeric & cumin. Add 4 tbsp flour to the spice mix and make a paste – add a little cold water if needed. Slowly stir the white wine vinegar to the paste, adding the mango chutney and sugar.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as required. 9. Drain the veg from the brine and rinse in cold water. 10. Add the veg to the spice mix and simmer for 15 minutes until all combined. Add to sterilized jars and allow to cool. Store in fridge.
To sterilize glass jars, wash in hot, soapy water and rinse well with boiling water. Dry in the oven for 15-20 mins at 140°C, until completely dry. Boil metal lids and rubber seals for 10 mins, then leave to dry.
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Smoked Mackerel Pâté Ingredients 320 g Cooked Smoked mackerel • fillets 1 tbsp creamed horseradish • 200 g cream cheese • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • Rind and juice of small lemon • Black pepper • Parsley for garnish • Method 1. Remove skin from mackerel fillets. 2. Break mackerel into bits, removing any bones and add to food processor. 3. Add rest of ingredients, except parsley and blitz for 2 minutes until you have a paste. Depends on how smooth you like it as to how long you blitz. 4. Taste and adjust seasoning and add more pepper or lemon juice to suit your taste. 5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if you prefer. Serve with sourdough toast or toast some bread on your grill pan as an alternative.
Pickled Red Onions Ingredients 2 red onions 1.5 cups vinegar 1.5 cups water 1 tsp salt 1 clove garlic 3 tsps sugar Sprinkle of Nigella seeds & coriander seeds (Optional) Freshly ground black pepper Method 1. Put vinegar, water, salt, sugar in a pan and bring to boil. 2. Finely slice red onion (use mandolin if you have one). 3. Lift onions slices up to separate them and pop them into a sterilized jar (I’ve used 1 litre jar) – if making smaller jar – just half the quantity. 4. In layers, sprinkle in the seeds (you can add any seeds you like or have in cupboard). 5. Stuff garlic clove into the middle and add ground black pepper. 6. Pour vinegar mixture into jar, covering all the onions. 7. Cool before storing in fridge.
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Quick and easy Chicken Skewers Ingredients • • • • • • •
Diced chicken breast Diced Courgette Diced Red pepper Diced Red Onion Cup milk 1 Lemon Peri Peri sauce
Method: 1.
Put milk and juice of half lemon in a bowl to make an alternative to buttermilk. Put diced chicken into the milk mix, with a dash of peri peri sauce and leave to marinade for at least an hour or ideally overnight. Remove chicken from milk discarding any excess liquid, pat dry. Skewer chicken and vegetables. Grill for 10 minutes turning regularly until cooked. Serve with corn bread wraps, peri peri sauce and salad
2.
3. 4. 5. 6.
Quick and Easy Southern-Fried Chicken Dippers Ingredients • • • •
Strips of chicken breast 2 cups Milk Juice of one lemon 3 cups flour
• • • •
1 cup corn flour 3 tsp smoked paprika 3 tsp dried oregano 3 tsp garlic powder
• • • •
3 tsp cayenne pepper Salt & Pepper 2 Eggs Oil for frying
Method 1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6. 7. 8.
Add lemon juice to milk to make buttermilk alternative. Take half and keep for later. Put chicken strips into one half of the milk mix and marinade for at least an hour although ideally overnight. Remove chicken from marinade and lightly pat dry and discard the marinade. Make your dry mix by combining flour, corn flour, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt &pepper. In large shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and remaining buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Dip chicken into the flour mix, then egg mix, then again in flour. Fry in hot oil (200 degrees) until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Transfer to baking tray and finish in oven (200 degrees) whilst you cook remaining chicken.
TIP: you can use same method/ingredients to coat chicken pieces – just like a wellknown fried chicken company – just make sure you check your chicken Is well cooked especially if on the bone.
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Caramelised Pear, Pecan & Cheese Tarts with Spicy Honey Ingredients • 500g block of frozen puff pastry • 3 pears • 25g butter • 1 Lemon • 2 tbsp runny honey • 1 dash chili sauce • 125g goat’s cheese • 125g blue cheese e.g. Roquefort (if you don’t like blue cheese you can replace it with feta or more goat’s cheese) • Handful of pecans (or walnuts) • 1 beaten egg • Herbs for garnish (basil/rosemary or thyme) Method 1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees & line baking sheet with parchment. 2. In a large pan, melt the butter with the honey and chili and squeeze of lemon juice. 3. Add the pears, which have been sliced and cored, and cook for 3 minutes each side. 4. Remove the pears from the honey, reserving the spicy honey for later. 5. Cut the pastry into 2 or 4 (I’ve done 2) and roll rectangular pieces, on a lightly floured surface – about 5mm thick. With a sharp knife, score a 2cm rim from the edge, making sure not to cut through. Place pastry on the prepared baking sheets, spacing the pastry about 1 inch apart or on separate tins. 6. Arrange the pears on the pastry, within the border.
7. Dot pieces of goat’s cheese and blue cheese over and around the pears. 8. Sprinkle with pecan nuts. 9. Brush the pastry border with beaten egg. 10. Bake for 15/20 mins until pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven, drizzle remaining spicy honey mix and scatter chopped herbs on top. 11. Serve and enjoy hot or cold
Thai-inspired Stuffed Squash Ingredients • 1 squash halved and deseeded • 1/2 cup basmati rice • 1 cup cold water • Red pepper diced • 1/2 courgette diced • 2 tbsp Thai curry paste (red or green) • 1 tbsp grated ginger
• • • • • • •
1 diced chilli 1/2 tin coconut milk Salt & pepper Fresh chopped parsley or coriander Fresh lime juice Finely sliced red onion Grated cheese
Method 1. Preheat oven - 200 degrees. 2. Halve the squash, remove seeds and trim the ends. 3. Lightly brush the flesh of the squash with oil and season with salt & pepper. 4. Roast, flesh side down for 20 minutes then turn 5. Whilst squash is roasting, sauté the rice in a pan with 1 tsp oil & tsp salt. Add 1 cup of cold water (always twice amount of water to rice) bring to boil, reduce & simmer until cooked. 6. Sauté red peppers, courgettes, ginger & curry paste. Add coconut milk and cook for 10 minutes. Add the cooked rice to the milk and veg. Add chopped parsley or coriander and juice of 1 lime. 7. Using a teaspoon, or melon baller, scoop out some of the roasted squash and gently add it to your curried rice mixture. 8. Add curried rice mixture back into the shell of the roasted squash. Top with a little grated cheese (optional) and finish off under grill. 9. Garnish with chopped parsley or coriander and finely sliced red onion.
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"The world can change, but before that ... let’s eat and drink!" Avenida de las Naciones 1C, Ciudad Quesada call 635 299 626 or email book.paprika@gmail.com
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SAMARITANS IN SPAIN How are you feeling today? Whilst we do receive calls from people who are experiencing suicidal feelings, we want to stress that no-one should feel that they need to wait until they reach this point before talking to us. We are here for anyone who is experiencing negative feelings of any kind such as anxiety, loneliness, distress or despair.
How often do you ignore your feelings? How often do you choose not to speak about how you are feeling because you are concerned about the effect it will have on others? Our world has suffered and continues to suffer from some unexpected and difficult times – Covid and the war in Ukraine to name but two. Even if they do not directly affect our lives, they can still have an impact on how we are feeling. We would not be human if they didn’t. Then of course, there are changes in our own personal circumstances – as Ronan Keating aptly tells us ‘Life is a rollercoaster’.
How to access our Service We are available to ALL English speakers irrespective of Nationality, and the quickest and easiest way to make contact is to call our FREEPHONE number which is 900 525 100 and anyone in mainland Spain or the Islands can access this. At present, we operate between 10am and 10pm every day. We also have an email address which is pat@samaritansinspain.com but as it takes us a little longer to respond to emails, we recommend making that call if you can.
Feelings really are the only indicator that we have by which to assess our mental well-being and we experience them for a reason. Yet, all too often it is seen as a weakness to seek help for our emotions even though we wouldn’t think twice if we were in physical pain. Sadly, men in particular have had this instilled in them from an early age, and yet, statistically speaking, they are the most likely to take their own life.
Spreading the word Even if you do not feel in need of our service, you can help to make sure that others who might are aware of our existence. The easiest way to do this is by strengthening our presence on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/samaritansinspain and Liking the page as well as Sharing and engaging with our posts.
Samaritans in Spain has been set up in order to provide a way for people to express their feelings in total confidence, honestly and openly. We believe that everyone should feel empowered to take action when their emotions are overwhelming them. A short call with one of our trained listeners can make such a difference both in terms of a release and regaining some control. We are not a solution provider, nor are we trained therapists What we are, are a group of people who have received special training in order to be able to listen with empathy and understanding.
So… how are you feeling today? No, really, how are you honestly feeling?
Samaritans is a fully registered charity in Spain (www.samaritansinspain.com) operating under license from Samaritans UK (www.samaritans.org) and works closely with the global umbrella organisation Befrienders Worldwide (www.befrienders.org).
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TALKING WELLBEING
with Moira Carmenate
THE PANDEMIC IN THE SHADOWS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ABUSE CASES GROWING BY MILLIONS There is no doubt that the high-profile court case between Amber Heard and Johnny Depp brought the horrors of domestic violence to the forefront of people’s minds as TV and radio stations around the world covered every aspect of the case. Both parties alleged they suffered domestic abuse as they gave detailed and often shocking examples to support their cases. Whatever your opinion on who may have been right or wrong, this is just one case in millions that are heard in courts around the world.
What are the warning signs? In a HEALTHY relationship, your partner may:
In an UNHEALTHY relationship, your partner may:
*TRUST YOU
*DISTRUST YOU
*LISTEN TO YOU
*GET VIOLENT & LOSE THEIR TEMPER
*MAKE YOU FEEL SAFE *BE SEXUALLY DEMANDING *TREAT YOU AS AN EQUAL *BULLY YOU & PUT YOU DOWN *UNDERTAND YOUR NEED TO BE WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS
*TRY TO CONTROL YOU
*VALUE YOUR OPINION
*MAKE ALL THE DECISIONS
*ACCEPT YOU FOR WHO YOU ARE
*MAKE YOU FEEL SCARED *EMBARRASS YOU
*RESPECT YOU *SUPPORT YOU
*MAKE YOU CRY
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Millions of normal everyday people are suffering domestic violence and many feel trapped in situations, often through fear and financial dependence, and feel paralyzed in any attempt to escape from their living hell.
Where there are low-income situations and people caught in the poverty trap, the situation is exacerbated as they feel they cannot get legal representation and don’t know where to turn. But what is domestic violence, also referred to as domestic abuse? Firstly, it isn’t always physical. Not everyone who is being abused will be covered in cuts and bruises, although many are. Whilst many people, male or female, sadly suffer violent attacks by a partner, many suffer from mental abuse from controlling and intimidating behaviour. According to the World Health Organisation, the numbers are startling. On a global scale, 1 in 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence.
Disturbingly, this information was gathered in 2018 before the pandemic, where during mandatory confinement, the numbers of complaints to the police grew significantly. In the USA, according to the National Library of Medicine, domestic violence affects 10 million people every year and the numbers are growing. What can you do? Well, you can see from the horrific global case numbers, you are not alone. There are many support channels who are non-judgmental, confidential, and free. •
SAMARITANS free phone 900 525 100
•
Spanish government run national line in English and other languages – Dial 016 WEB: violenciagenero.igualdad.gob.es/informacionU til/recursos/telefono016/ocs/Tarjeta016_INGL ES.pdf What’s App: 0034 600 000 016
Don’t suffer in silence
www.theeliteswellnessgroup.com 11
Enjoy a cool house in Spain with custom-fitted blinds. Are you a foreign retiree or enjoying a vacation home in Spain? Then Blinds Casa is the place for you to get your new blinds! Why? Because we are focussed mainly on you as our customer. Rest assured of the following advantages when ordering your new blinds with us:• • • • • • •
Professional advice for your specific situation We can work around your travel schedule when you are travelling to your home country Fluent English, Dutch, German and Spanish-speaking Pixel perfect fitting of your blinds, as we have fitted a lot of blinds before Fully custom-fitted blinds for your window Premium quality blinds backed by a 4 year warranty After ordering, we fit in 3-4 weeks
And to top this all off: - we are on time- we keep our promisesguarantee to fix your blinds within 5 days Please contact us if you have more questions or would like to make an appointment.
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Av. Pais Valenciano 34 - 03140 Guardamar Tel. 681 90 19 35
How To Make Flowers Last Longer By Yaraslava Garmashevska Flowers are a common gift for any of life’s special occasions and even the moments in between. A bouquet of bright blooms can bring cheer to any space and leave a lasting impression, even after they’re gone. For that reason alone, you’ll want to enjoy them for as long as possible. The sad truth is that flower bouquets don’t last forever. On the bright side, there are guidelines and little known tips you can use to ensure the longevity of your flowers. Buy from a professional florist. Malva Flowers proceed from the most famous plantations of Ecuador, Kenya, Colombia, Holland, Italy and Spain. They are of the best quality and conserved in specialized fridges. Cutting the Stems Use a sharp knife to trim one to two inches off and cut them at an angle. This allows for better water intake since they aren’t sitting flat on the bottom of the vase. Be sure to re-trim your bouquet once every few days when you change the water. Prune Remove any leaves below the water line. It will not only make your bouquet look better, but also prevent bacterial growth. Malva Flowers are already pruned and professionally prepared. Check your flowers daily for dead or loose leaves and petals.
Water Wisely Your flowers won’t last long without water, especially once their stems have been cut. Fill your clean vase with room temperature water and add in the packet of flower food, which we provide. Clean your vase and change the water and flower food whenever you see that the water isn't crystal clear anymore. Avoid Direct Sunlight, Heat, Drafts and Fruit Your flowers will last longer in a room with cool temperatures. Avoid displaying them in direct sunlight or near appliances that generate heat. Avoid areas like open windows, heating or cooling vents and ceiling fans as they can cause the flowers to quickly dehydrate. Also, don’t display your bouquet near fruit. Ripening fruits release tiny amounts of ethylene gas which can reduce the longevity of your flowers. There are a lot of popular household remedies like aspirin, bleach, coins, soda and even vodka to keep your flowers fresh longer. What does the professional florist choose? The answer is; a professional flower nourishment, also called "magic powder". Malva Flowers will always offer you the best choice of flowers and potting plants. Mention Expat Lifestyle for a 10% discount. See you soon!
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TALKING LEGAL
with Costasea Legal Advisers
Your trusted legal service •
Have you got an INHERITANCE TAX PLAN regarding your assets in Spain? • Are your beneficiaries here in Spain to inherit your assets? • We can help you with all of this
OUR WILLS ARE ONLY €99 WITH NO HIDDEN CHARGES Make an appointment with us and keep calm. We are specialists in inheritance law and inheritance taxes
C/ La Purisma, 22 03158 Catral +34 966 843 946 info@costasea.com www.costasea.com 15
The Expat Centre - Calle de Villena 12 03170 Ciudad Quesada +34 865 668 596 info@theexpatcentre.com www.theexpatcentre.com
BEAUTIFUL beaches Expat Lifestyle Magazine continues with our guide to the beautiful beaches we have right here on our doorstep in sunny Costa Blanca. Tell us your favourites and send us some pictures, too!
CALA PINETS, BENISSA A cool urban beach with flat rocky shelves in pretty surroundings with uninterrupted views of Penyal D’Ifach. An impressive 50m rock pool means kids can play safely, too.
CALA DE AMBOLO, JAVEA An immaculate cove, one of the most beautiful on the Costa. White gravel and boulders contrast against brilliant clean blue waters.
The cove is protected from sea winds by Isla de Descubridor (Discoverer’s Island) . The beach ahs been closed in the past due to rockfalls so be cautious!
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of Costa BLANCA CALA BLANCA, JAVEA A natural, circular sea-pool, The White Cove is surrounded by low cliffs of marlstone and clay. A great spot for families, where parents can watch kids dive off the rocky outcrops. Walking through a natural rock archway to the right takes visitors to Cala de Dins next door.
CALA DE DINS, JAVEA An idyllic cove with calcite stone formations surrounded by high white cliffs. The low headland is ideal for sunbathing. The narrow inlet alongside is great for swimming and snorkelling. The whole area has a young, local vibe.
Words by Lola Culsan and John Weller (from their book, “Hidden Beaches Spain”) Pictures from Facebook & Wikipedia
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ENJOY GUARDAMAR ‘MOORS & CHRISTIANS’ RETURNS THIS MONTH They’re back after THREE years! The Moors and Christians celebrations in honour of Saint James is a Festival of Regional Tourist Interest of the Valencian Community, taking place in the second fortnight of July. It is the greatest celebration for the town of Guardamar. It begins with the representation of the legend of L'Encantà, where the Lady of Guardamar is proclaimed and crowned. In the act, the ancient story of a young woman is staged who, after having suffered an enchantment, can only be freed by the arms of a brave warrior, who must first win her in a battle against evil forces and bathe her feet in waters of the Segura River. Another act of great interest, which recalls a historical passage, is the representation of the Pact of Tudmir. The signing of the treaty is re-enacted from AD 713, where the Visigoth noble Teodomiro ceded the territories where Guardamar is located to the Muslims of Abd-al Azid ibn Muzá. The parades of the Moorish and Christian sides are, without a doubt, the most spectacular moments of the festival, in which the history of the Catalan medieval reconquest is relived. On July 25, the solemn procession takes place in honour of the patron Sant James, accompanied by Authorities, the Festival Commission, the Lady of Guardamar and Companions, Captains, Associations and festival-goers in general. The fire, the Correfocs, the aquatic fireworks display, the Mascletà and the music are central to this very Valencian festival. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy and be part of Guardamar!
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TALKING PROPERTY With John Clark – Sapphire Properties
CIUDAD QUESADA
Tel. 965 725 478 | Mob. 600 362 843 info@sapphireproperties.co.uk www.sapphireproperties.co.uk
€599,999 CIUDAD QUESADA
€365,000
SR1242
SR1264
Stunning detached villa with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and private pool
Stunning detached villa with 3 beds, 2 baths and a pool in Ciudad Quesada
ROJALES
€167,500 EL RASO
SR1263
SR1261
Delightful 3 bed, 3 bath semi-detached villa with communal pool
CIUDAD QUESADA
€215,000
Fantastic south-facing detached villa with private pool in quiet cul-de-sac
€260,000 SAN FULGENCIO
SR1260
€179,000
SR1259
Stunning detached south-facing 3 bed villa with 2 large terraces
Beautiful 3 bed apartment with communal pool and underground parking
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We are a family run business established here on the Costa Blanca South since 2006. We specialise in Property Sales, Property Management and Long-term lets with our office located in the Gran Alacant Commercial Centre. Stuart Markham OP Group Spain
Tel. +34 865 943 755
Ref: OPLF091 GROUND FLR APARTMENT 2 BED 1 BATH
GUARDAMAR €86,000
Ref: OPLF056 GROUND FLR APARTMENT LA FINCA GOLF €129,000 2 BED 2 BATH
Ref: OPGA047 AMAZING DETACHED VILLA 6 BED 4 BATH
AGOST €309,000
Ref: OPGA059 SPACIOUS TOWNHOUSE GRAN ALACANT €269,500 3 BED 2 BATH
Ref: OPGA061 BEAUTIFUL RETREAT 4 BED 2 BATH
PETRER €279,995
Ref: OPLF083 FIRST FLOOR APARTMENT 2 BED 1 BATH
+34 865 943 755 21
ALGORFA €65,000
When you move to a foreign country, particularly in your twilight years, one of the things you must consider is what happens when you pass away. We know it is not the nicest task on your list of priorities, but to any family you may have living back in the UK or another country, it is a very important one.
For the family and loved ones that are left behind, we make sure that we are there for them, guiding them through any unexpected complications that may occur along the way. We are so much more than a voice on the end of the phone, as we assist in person to make a difficult time just that little bit easier.
Of course, there are several companies on the market who provide a funeral plan but aside from cost, what else should you consider when making your choice of who to go with? We at White Doves Funeral Planning believe that it should be as much about the service that’s provided, as it is about the product of a funeral plan itself.
We understand that grief can be overwhelming and that what might seem the simplest of tasks can be too much. We do everything we can to alleviate those early stresses because we care.
“When my wife signed up, I thought we were buying just a funeral plan but the support I received was so much more than that.” – David Peterson
“They were so helpful and went above and beyond… even collected the ashes on my behalf” – Susan Michaels
Our friendly team are always on hand to answer any questions that you may have and will happily talk you through what you can expect when you purchase a plan from us.
Why do people choose to take out a funeral plan in the first place? They do it to remove the burden of cost from their loved ones, to ensure that family have sufficient time to make travel plans and to make sure that those left behind are not on their own having to deal with what is a complicated process when living in Spain.
We want you to be fully satisfied that you have made the right choice for you and those closest to you. If you have made the decision to enjoy a life in Spain but have yet to put a funeral plan in place, come and have a chat with us today.
Our funeral plans are tailored to meet your needs, and our simple direct cremation can be purchased for only €2,595, currently the lowest priced plan available in Spain.
Call on +34 865 668 597
www.WhiteDovesFuneralPlanning.com 22
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CLASSIC FILM REVIEW
with Simon Wade
“The Ultimate Trip” 2001: A Space Odyssey (Stanley Kubrick, 1968) The poster said, ‘Let the Awe and Mystery of a Journey Unlike Any Other Begin’. Indeed, this IS a film unlike any other, and it IS a journey of awe & mystery. The “awe” is in the epic visual and aural extravagance, the “mystery” is what this film is actually about! Granted, it doesn’t have the multiple vagaries of Kubrick’s own ‘The Shining’ (1980) or the poetic violence of ‘A Clockwork Orange’ (1971) but there is certainly a question mark over the entire premise. Thankfully, co-writer Arthur C Clarke said, “If you understand '2001' completely, we failed. We wanted to raise far more questions than we answered.“ That said, my own understanding is that it’s a simple (if overly long) yarn about evolution and not much else. Although the film and I are exactly the same age, I’m still young enough to appreciate a bit of alacrity! However, my own enjoyment comes from the way the senses are bombarded with a perpetual cacophony of sights and sounds that still aren’t seen in sci-fi movies of the modern era.
It’s a perfect marriage of both audio & visual extravaganze. Strauss’s Blue Danube echoing the elegance of the space station, Floyd’s incessant heavy breathing (allegedly Kubrick’s own) during his space-walk, the deafening silence and blinding blackness of outer space. And that hallucinogenic StarGate sequence … WOW! Little treats include a young Leonard Rossiter, some crazy toilet instructions, HAL's hippy attitude, the amazing centrifuge on Discovery and that famous 'bone-to-ship' edit - bang on 20:01m (2001, get it?) But when Kubrick tries to drive home the philosophical quandaries and thought-provoking content in the coda, it does get uninteresting. No surprise, as this is the point where even Stanley Kubrick’s massive budget ran out! Even so, the confusing ending and erratic pace don’t detract from what is not just a classic of the genre – it’s a classic of the medium. All done without computer effects, which probably generates more “awe” and “mystery” than anything else. Find the film, turn out the lights, maybe even light a "cigarette", sit back & let the journey begin. It’ll be a long and psychedelic one, but certainly a “trip” you’ll enjoy.
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ENTERTAINMENT
SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER!!
Caz Miller-Matthews, - Big FM
Can you actually believe its July already? No neither can I.. School’s out now and all the municipal pools are open. Great news for those without their own pool. Of course, while you are chilling around your chosen pool, make sure your locked into BIG FM on 89.9 & 91.1 FM. We’re live online via bigradiospain.com and on our app called BIG RADIO SPAIN. Because we are THE community radio station on the Costa Blanca we have so much going on during our live shows every day. We have competitions on most of our shows where you can win all sorts of prizes from meals for two and shopping. We even had concert tickets for MADNESS when they played Murcia, giving away guest list tickets to two lucky winners. Looking for work or looking for staff? Well, we have a ‘jobzone’ on our website with details read out live on air during the breakfast show. Being the Community Radio Station that we are, we do all this for free.
It’s Outside Broadcast Season so keep locked on in to BIG RADIO SPAIN to find out where we’ll be and come and join the fun. And if you have an event you want people to hear all about email.... events@bigradiospain.com Caz Miller-Matthews – Big FM
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WHAT’S ON GUIDE
JULY 2022 Friday 1
Thursday 7
BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm QUESADA, Lawson's Cocltail & Tapas Bar, DJ Caz Matthews - 8pm EL RASO, Legends, Lorna Michelle Singer - 8pm LOS ALCAZARES, Celt Bar, Rain O'Connor - 9pm PLAYA FLAMENCA CC, Sea View, Chris 'Nutty Boy' Packett - 9pm GUARDAMAR, El Bosque, Delvis Ramos y Chocolat Son – 10pm
LA TORETTA, Bar Patricia, Nikki Nock karaoke - 7pm
Saturday 2 LOS ALCAZARES, La Zona, The Project Duo - 8pm PUNTA PRIMA, Captain's Table, Chloe Leigh - 8pm DONA PEPA, Coopers Bar, Paula Moloina - 8.30pm TORREVIEJA, Mi Sol Bar, Nikki Nock karaoke - 9pm LA MANGA, The Last Drop, Rain O'Connor - 10.30pm Sunday 3 LA FUENTE, The Pitstop, Alfie G - 5pm LA ZENIA, CC's Bar, Abbalicious Show - 8pm GRAN ALACANT, The Pub, Deja Nielsen singer - 8pm FORMENTERA DEL SEGURA, Rumours Bar, Nikki Nock - 7pm Monday 4 LOS BALCONES, Jessie's Bar, Chris 'Nutty Boy' Packett - 5pm BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm
Friday 8 BENIMAR, El Mundo, Paula Molina - 5pm SAN JAVIER, Altaona Golf Club, Deja Nielsen singer - 6.30pm LA MARQUESA GOLF, Stevie's Lounge, Lorna Michelle Singer - 7pm PLAYA FLAMENCA CC, Sea View, Chris 'Nutty Boy' Packett - 9pm CABO ROIG, Smiðjan - SkyBar, Si Conway Salute to Swing - 9pm Saturday 9 LOS DOLSES, Eddie's Bar, Chloe Leigh - 7pm BENIMAR, So Bar, Lorna Michelle Singer - 7pm CABO ROIG, Shrumba, Alfie G - 8pm PLAYA FLAMENCA, Emerald Isle, Deja Nielsen singer - 8.30pm BLUE LAGOON, Slider's Bar, Rain O'Connor - 9pm Sunday 10 FORMENTERA DEL SEGURA, Rumours Bar, Nikki Nock - 7pm LA FLORIDA, Arianaz, Vortex 80s tribute - 8pm PLAYA FLAMENCA, Emerald Isle, Deja Nielsen singer - 8pm Monday 11
Tuesday 5
TORREVIEJA, St James' Gate, Nikki Nock karaoke - 6pm BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm
LA MARQUESA GOLF, Stevie's Lounge, Chloe Leigh - 8pm
Tuesday 12
Wednesday 6
TORREVIEJA, O'Connors By The Sea, Nikki Nock karaoke - 8pm
SAN LUIS, The Watering Hole, Nikki Nock - 8pm DONA PEPA, La Laguna Hotel, Paula Molina - 8.30pm LA FLORIDA, Bar Arianaz, Rain O'Connor - 9pm
Wednesday 13 CABO ROIG, Shrumba, Rain O'Connor - 8pm SAN LUIS, The Watering Hole, Nikki Nock - 8pm
Please contact Simon at The Expat Centre if you have gigs or events to promote in August Telephone +34 865 668 596
SI CONWAY
CHRIS PACKETT
DEJA NIELSEN
NIKKI NOCK
PAUL SCHRAEGER
PAULA MOLINA
Email Simon@ExpatLifestyle.es
Special rates for businesses that advertise in this section
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The What’s On Guide is sponsored by The Tipsy Tortoise in Formentera del Segura
Thursday 14
Friday 22
LA TORETTA, Bar Patricia, Nikki Nock karaoke - 7pm
BENIMAR, El Mundo, Paula Molina - 5pm CABO ROIG, Smiðjan - SkyBar, Si Conway Salute to Swing - 9pm
Friday 15 BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm QUESADA, Vista Lounge, Deja Nielsen singer - 9pm PLAYA FLAMENCA, Seaview, Chris 'Nutty Boy' Packett - time TBC Saturday 16 PLAYA FLAMENCA, Kacey's Bar, Rain O'Connor - 8pm QUESADA, Los Amigo's, It Takes Two (Vocal Harmony Duo) - 9pm Sunday 17
Saturday 23 BENIJOFAR, Pines Bar, Lorna Michelle Karaoke - 4.30pm CAMPOVERDE, Tipsy Cow, Rain O'Connor - 8pm TORREVIEJA, Mi Sol Bar, Nikki Nock karaoke - 9pm Sunday 24 FORMENTERA DEL SEGURA, Rumours Bar, Nikki Nock - 7pm PUNTA PRIMA, Bar 3 Via Park III, Chloe Leigh is Cher - 9pm QUESADA, Vista Lounge, Si Conway Salute to Swing - time TBC
FORMENTERA DEL SEGURA, Rumours Bar, Nikki Nock - 7pm DONA PEPE, Aurora Bar & Lounge, Paul Schrager - time TBC
Monday 25
Monday 18
BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm CABO ROIG, Jax Bar, Vortex 90s tribute - 9pm
TORREVIEJA, St James' Gate, Nikki Nock karaoke - 6pm BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm
Tuesday 26 TORREVIEJA, O'Connors By The Sea, Nikki Nock karaoke - 8pm
Tuesday 19 TORREVIEJA, O'Connors By The Sea, Nikki Nock karaoke - 8pm QUESADA, Chiefs on Broadway, Vortex 80s tribute - 8pm CATRAL, Camping Alannia, Paula Molina - 8.30pm Wednesday 20 BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm SAN LUIS, The Watering Hole, Nikki Nock - 8pm LA FLORIDA, Bar Arianaz, Rain O'Connor - 9pm
Wednesday 27 BENIJOFAR, La Cosecha Restaurant, Debbie H - 7pm SAN LUIS, The Watering Hole, Nikki Nock - 8pm CABO ROIG, Maschu Bar, Rain O'Connor - 9pm Thursday 28 FORTUNA, The Castle Bar, Deja Nielsen singer - 8pm QUESADA, Chiefs on Broadway, No Fences Country & Western - 9pm
Thursday 21
Friday 29
LA TORETTA, Bar Patricia, Nikki Nock karaoke - 7pm
QUESADA, Vista Lounge, Deja Nielsen singer - 9pm
CAZ MATTHEWS
CHLOE LEIGH
PROJECT DUO: Jude and Debbie Hutchinson 27
READER’S CONTRIBUTION LET’S PUTT IT AWAY!! Hi fellow golfers!
As golfers, we’ve all heard the expression, “Drive for snow, putt for dough” – so let’s see it we can make more of those putts. There are some basics in the setup that will help you make more putts. First and foremost, the ball MUST be directly below your eyes. Or, put another way, your eyes should be parallel to the line of putt. The best way to check this is to set yourself yup for the putt and get a friend to place the ball on the bridge of your nose. As they let go, the ball should fall right on top of the ball you’re about to putt. Another critical aspect of the putt is to STROKE the ball with the same pace back and through. Timing, rhythm and tempo are critical. Take the putter away from the ball and let it act as a pendulum. You must ensure the putter head goes right through the ball and does not decelerate as it makes contact. Although both hands are used in the action, your dominant hand assumes more responsibility. If you’re a right-handed player, try putting with just that hand. The putter will feel heavier, but you’ll get the tick-tock feeling and the sense that its swimming back & forth almost by itself. The cost and style of an amateur’s putter is irrelevant. The most important thing is that it FEELS good in your hand and gives you a feeling of confidence just looking down at it. Also, a well-maintained or new grip will give you extra confidence. Hopefully, these tips will help you sink a few more putts and lower your handicap. In coming editions of Expat Lifestyle, we’ll have a closer look at the rest of your game and address the basics of a good all round golf swing. In the mean time, keep it ‘long and straight’ and stafe! The Golf Doctor
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Living in Spain? All your questions answered! FREE professional talks in a friendly safe environment on all aspects of Expat life here in Spain Subjects covered include: • • • • • •
Savings, investments & pension advice Spanish wills & probate Funeral plans Inheritance Tax Legal advice Resident & non-resident taxes in Spain
Professional boardroom setting Home-made snacks & refreshments
Call +34 865 668 596 or email tracy@theexpatcentre.com to reserve your place (booking essential) www.theexpatcentre.com 30
AEMET, The State Meteorological Agency for the Spanish Government, predicts that July and August will see the highest temperatures recorded in Spain over the last 30 years. With that in mind, we decided it was best to postpone our Lifestyle show at La Laguna Hotel in July and rearrange it for later in the year when it will be cooler. From a health and safety perspective, we didn’t want exhibitors or visitors suffering in what is predicted to be suffocating temperatures. Thank you for your understanding, we look forward to seeing later in the year.
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FOR COMPETITIVE QUOTES, CONTACT US NOW
Tel. +34 865 668 596