A Life in Spain – Edition 16 January 2018 by peter Clarke

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SPAIN A Life in

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South Town

Granada, Andalucia

North Town

Wine Region

Albir, Costa Blanca

Company Profile

Bullas

Insure Spain

issue 16 JAN 2018

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Spanish recipe

Cocido MadrileĂąo

Do we need a lightning conductor in our home?

Wine Region:

Volvo Ocean Bullas Race 8&9 20 & 21 A life on the course...

La Sella Golf

. . . e l fi o r p y n a p Com

Insure Spain

Scuba Diving in Spain: Aguilas

Welcome to the January edition of ALIS. Well that’s that then. The decs are all down, and Papa Noel has gone back to Lapland until next year. Next stop Easter. I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and I wish you all a prosperous 2018. Let’s hope this year has less surprises and a lot more fun and laughter. This issue is packed with great articles including one on the castles in Alicante, as well as ‘the guns of Navarone’. Both of which are a must visit for those with an interest in Spanish history. Whilst the Spanish Recipe Explains how to make a Spanish winter warmer called ‘Cocida Madileño’ and this months wine feature is focusing on Bullas

Road Trip to

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Altea 2017

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www.alifeinspain.com - Jan 2018

People die. That is an axiom. But do you know the odds of dying of say a heart disease? Well, pretty high really, is 1 in 5. Of cancer?1 in 7.Of an accidental injury 1 in 36.Air travel accident?1 in 20.000. A lightning strike.....? 1 in 83.930. Very hide indeed but the situation changes when dealing with houses. I have found that 1 out of 200 houses will be struck by a lightning every year. So is no joke to find out if your house needs to be protected by a lightning conductor or not. There has been and advancement with regards to lightning conductor design. Each year the communications, energy and security technologies advance in the sense of improving the utilization and benefits that coexist in building installations andhow we have to adapt to them. The Spanish Building Regulations forced us architects to carry out a study of lightning protection needs on every building or home designed in order to get to know the actual need for protection of the building in question. In most cases the need for a lightning protection is not required, according to our calculations, so there is no need to place lightning rods on the roof as a means of protection. A lightning rod placed on a mast at the top of the building. The most common and well-known systems of lightning protections are the simple “Franklin lightning rods “ which is a lightning rod placed on a mast at the top of the building. By placing these gadgets, the entire building is transformed into a possible point of lightning impact, is the principle of operation of ionizing systems (Franklin- lightning rods), the rod gets excited and draw lightning which is lead to earth by bare ground wires.

Do we need a lightning conductor in our home? but if the system wasn’t large enough as an energy transporter, the building is put at risk by the high-voltage going through it and not being able to avoid destruction of sensitive electronics equipment, by induction, or overvoltage in the electric data networks, including a returns of current via the earthing and neutral poles. Electricity overflow may jump from outside into the electrical installation of the building. The Spanish electro-technical regulations for low voltage indirectly prohibit these Franklin- lightning rods technologies, by openly limiting the dangerous currents in bare wires, and forbidding any system that allowed an over-range electromagnetic effect. It even prohibits the possibility that by the earthling poles may appear any voltages that may put into risk the lives of people. New methods of lightning protections are now used to avoid the formation of lightning forming on the building which is supposed to be protected. In the technical literature they are usually called “non-conventional systems”. An umbrella that protects the building against the fall of lightnings. The basic characteristics of these systems incorporate a system of transfer of charge (CTS), by transferring the electrostatic charge before the formation of the lightning cancelling the phenomenon of ionisation or corona. In other words create an umbrella that protects the building against the fall of lightning.

The problem with this system is not that lightning rod system may or may not works, the problem is that heads of the rod is not able to recognize or discriminate any type of lightning or The lightning rod head consists of two aluminium electrodes its intensity, and the intensity can vary a lot, It can range from separated by a dielectric insulator all of this supported by a small 5 to 350,000 amperes. stainless steel mast. Its shape is spherical and the system is connected in series with the own earthing to transfer the electrostatic An old technology not without problems. charge to earth avoiding excitement and direct impact of the Part of this system of protection, the ionizing type is called lightning bolt. Franklin system, an old technology that can be still found in roofs, and coexisting with installation of radio and television Its principle of operation relies essentially on channelling to earth aerials in the form of antennas, in energy production systems the potential difference between the cloud and the head of the in the form of solar or photovoltaic panels. lightning rod, the installation first pushes upwards, through the bare ground wire; the voltage generated by the thunderstorm When lightning hits on these lightning rods, it is impossible to to the highest point of the installation, during the process of the predict what will happen, because depends on the amount of storm is generated fields of high tension that are concentrated in energy discharged, the amps will run in microseconds to the the bottom electrode (cathode-), from a magnitude of the electric ground, following the metallic conductive elements from the field, the upper electrode (anode) attracting opposite charges to copper head and wire conductor to the ground, offset the inner potential difference of the head, during the transfer process the flow of current between the anode and the cathode occurs in the interior of the lightning rod, this natural process cancels the effect “Crown” on the outside of the lightning rod.

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www.alifeinspain.com -JAN 2018

Wine Focus...

BULLAS D.o.

Bullas is a DO (Denominaciรณn de Origen) wine region in the southern part of the Murcia province in south-eastern Spain. It stretches from Jumilla almost all the way down to the Mediterranean coast at Puerto de Mazarron. This location makes Bullas the southernmost DO wine zone in the Levante (the traditional, collective name for Murcia its northern neighbour, Valencia).

BACKGROUND The Bullas DO title was created in 1994, and is managed by its own ConsejoRegulador (wine authority). It s named for the small, ancient town of that name, located at the heart of official Bullas viticultural area. Although the area only gained n official DO title relatively recently, it has a long history of winemaking. It is best-known for its rosé and red wines, particularly those made in the fresh, vibrant joven style.

Immediately to the west of Bullas lies the Sierra Nevada, the mountain range which connects Murcia with Andalucia. To the east lies the coastal plain of Cartagena and a large lagoon known as the Mar Menor (small sea in Spanish). The landscape and climate here in this rugged, elevated region is harsh and dry and elevated. Most vineyards sit between 1,650ft and 2,700ft (approx 500-810m) above sea level. The soils here are often so hard they have to be broken up by mechanical means before vines can be planted. This effort is well rewarded, with limestone and chalk soils providing good drainage in the higher areas and alluvial and limestone soils in lower-lying parts also offering good drainage. This is essential, as torrential rains and storms can hit Bullas in September and October. Bullas has a similar climate to Murcia’s other wine regions, with the Mediterranean effects marginalised by the hot, dry conditions of the central Iberian plateau. Summer days tend to be very hot, with temperatures regularly rising to 104°F (40°C). Higher-altitude vineyards in the region’s hilly northwest are noticeably cooler, and its is here that grape are grown for the majority of Bullas wines. Winters all over Bullas tend to be cooler than in other parts of Murcia, because of the mountain influences, which means that occasional frosts are a threat.

Monastrell reigns supreme in Bullas and is responsible for the DO’s signature fruity red wines. It accounts for 60% of the vines here. Traditionally, most of these were drunk joven (young), but since Bullas attained its appellation status, many adventurous producers have successfully experimented with maturing the best wines in American oak barrels. Monastrell is also the grape variety of choice for the region’s fresh and lively Bullas Rosado rosés. Other grape varieties used include Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha, Syrah, Tempranillo, Merlot and Petit Verdot. A small number of white wines are produced, predominantly from the Macabeo and Airen grapes, although Chardonnay, Malvasia Blanca, Muscat and Sauvignon Blanc are also permitted. Most of the production in Bullas has been cooperative-based, reflecting the region’s traditional bulk-producer image and history, but this system is waning as more and more quality-conscious producers create wines expressive of the local terroir. Unlike in the past, many bottled wines are now finding their way to the export markets.

www.alifeinspain.com -JAN 2018

. . . e s r u o c e h t n o A life

La Sella Golf

Enjoy in Denia a 27-hole course, known internationally for its excellent conditions for playing golf throughout the year. La Sella Golf has been headquarters of the Ladies European Tour, Spanish Female Championship and has hosted national team events and other big events. It is a wide and varied course, surrounded by the Natural Park of El Montgó. Its design is appropriate for all levels of players. A very nice and spacious course. Good conditions of fairways and greens. I rented clubs and got brand new TaylorMade. I would recommend this course to everybody.

-Year Built 1991 -Designer/s Jose Mª. Olazábal -Manager Carlos García Miranda de Larra -President MaraBañó -Greenkeeper Francisco García -Golf Professional José Manuel Carriles y Dino Ferrer -Layout difficulty 3 (1 easy to 5 hard) -Approx. tee interval 8 min. -Buggy recommended No -Maximum Handicaps Gents: 35 Ladies: 35 -Green Fee, normal price 80€. -To book, Tel: 966 454 252

www.alifeinspain.com -JAN 2018

100 Castles of the Costa Blanca The Province of Alicante has always had a lot to defend and now it’s got a lot to visit. Castles, watchtowers, bastions, batteries, defence towers and lookout points, forts and bunkers, walled palaces and even Xàbia’s church, designed to repel non-believers. A constellation of 230 constructions dot and explain this territory with its rich terrain and history impregnated with peoples, cultures, and borders. Below, we have selected 100 examples of these pieces of architecture to summarize 1,500 years of epic, daily battles, legendary treaties, and fear of being invaded. Each one of them represents a privileged location to enjoy the landscape, a unique cultural experience,and an invitation to immerse yourself in the people’s memory. Visigoth kings, like Theodemir, mythic Arab commanders, like Al-Azraq, and Christian monarchs as well known as James I or Alfonso X (“The Wise”) wait behind the stoned walls. This is the opportunity to be guided through a journey in time that will be impossible to forget. Being based on heritage, history, and culture, the Castle Route through the Province of Alicante becomes a non-stop session full of experiences for the traveller. Every fortress is an open door to delve deeper into surprising natural spaces, enjoy centuries-old gastronomy, and participate in all types of complementary activities from hiking to shopping – passing over a sports and nautical experience trail.

1. The Vinalopó Castle Route 2. The Key to the Kingdom Route 3. The Tudmir Castle Route 4. The Mountain Castle Route 5. The Frontier of Fear Castle Route

The castles with their silent walls and their arrow slits– whisper stores about a territory where protection and monitoring were always a part of life: a life that is recorded in gold lettering in books and which can be felt through the magic air of the villages and cities that continue to tell its story.

South Town...

Granada

At just a few hours drive West from the Mojacar area, Granada comes highly recommended as somewhere to visit if you’re living in, or just visiting, this area of Andalusia. From it’s fantastic history & city vibe to it’s proximity to the Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, there’s always something to keep everyone happy so check those tyres and oil, book those bus tickets or take that flight as you’ll not be disappointed.

Granada was first settled by native tribes in the prehistoric period, and was known as Ilbyr. When the Romans colonised southern Spain, they built their own city here and called it Illibris. The Arabs, invading the peninsula in the 8th century, gave it its current name of Granada. It was the last Muslim city to fall to the Christians in 1492, at the hands of Queen Isabel of Castile and her husband Ferdinand of Aragon. One of the most brilliant jewels of universal architecture is the Alhambra, a series of palaces and gardens built under the Nazari Dynasty in the 14th C. This mighty compound of buildings – including the summer palace called Generalife, with its fountains and gardens - stands at the foot of Spain’s highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada, and overlooks the city below and the fertile plain of Granada. At the centre of the Alhambra stands the massive Palace of Charles V, an outstanding example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Other major Christian monuments found in the city are the Cathedral, including the Royal Chapel where Isabel and Ferdinand lie buried, the Monastery of La Cartuja and many churches built by Moorish craftsmen after the Reconquest, in Granada’s unique “mudéjar” style.

The Alhambra (See left page) The name Alhambra comes from an Arabic root which means “red or crimson castle”, perhaps due to the hue of the towers and walls that surround the entire hill of La Sabica which by starlight is silver but by sunlight is transformed into gold. But there is another more poetic version, evoked by the Moslem analysts who speak of the construction of the Alhambra fortress “by the light of torches”, the reflections of which gave the walls their particular coloration. Created originally for military purposes, the Alhambra was an “alcazaba” (fortress), an “alcázar” (palace) and a small “medina” (city), all in one. This triple character helps to explain many distinctive features of the monument. Science Museum Granada’s excellent science museum is located just two kilometres (or a 15-minute walk) south of the centre of the city on Avenida del Mediterráneo, opposite the Convention Centre. Probably the most stimulating museum for children in Andalucia, although be warned that large, noisy school groups come in term-time, from Tuesday to Friday.

The Sacromonte hill, which overlooks the city from the North, is famous for its cave dwellings, once the home of Granada’s large gypsy community.

Granada Cathedral The Cathedral is located in the centre of the Muslim area and dates back to 1523. It has a nave and four aisles, a crossing and circular apse. Alonso Cano built the main façade with sculptures by Duque Cornejo, Risueño and Verdiguier while the only tower of the two planned ended up half finished. On the northern side, there is La Puerta del Perdón, a magnificent work of Diego de Siloé who also built La Puerta de San Jerónimo. The chancel is not only stunning, but includes skillful architectural solutions provided by Siloé. Its circular plan and great height contain semi-circular arches upon which a double series of balconies rest.

The name Granada is ancient and mysterious. It may mean “great castle”, for the Roman fortress which once stood on the Albaicin Hill. When the Moors came here, the town was largely inhabited by Jews, for which they called it Garnat-al-Yahud - Granada of the Jews. The Jews are said to have been one of the first people to settle in Spain, even before the Romans.

El Albaicín El Albaicín is the old Moorish quarter of the city. It’s located on a hill facing the Alhambra and there are dramatic views of this area from the palace’s famous rose gardens. The Zirid Monarchs first established their court here in the 11th century although little remains from this era today, apart from some crumbling remains of the wall

The hill facing the Alhambra is the old Moorish casbah or “medina”, called the Albaicin, a fascinating labyrinth of narrow streets and whitewashed houses with secluded inner gardens, known as “cármenes”. The Plaza de San Nicolas, at the highest point of the Albaicin, is famous for its magnificent view of the Moorish palace.

www.alifeinspain.com -JAN 2018

Road Trip to Altea 2017

On Saturday 28 th October 2017 twelve of us left the shop at 2pm accompanied by our wives and partners and travelled in convoy along the AP7 to the Cap Negret Hotel in Altea for a cycling weekend in the hills. Unfortunately as we left Quesada the heavens opened and it poured rain all the way to Altea. When we arrived we checked in and squared our bikes away in the storage area provided for cycling teams. ( large room suitable for 20 bikes , kit etc shower, toilet, and washing machine ) Most of the top teams that train in and around the Calpe / Altea area now use the Cap Negret Hotel as their headquarters. Due to the weather we decided just to go to the bar and spent most of the afternoon there. Sunday morning we were all up bright and early for breakfast and ready to hit the road by 9am. We left Altea and quickly picked up the lovely twisty road to Quadalest, considering all the rain the day before it was a fantastic sunny day with only the occasional damp patch on the roads. When we reached Guadalest it was already quite busy with tourists but we found a restaurant and had a coffee and tostada and the waitress even came out with a cake with a candle on as it was Harry’s 19 th birthday. After 30 mins we were off again heading down the way that we had just came up only this time much faster as it was quite a climb up. We got to Callosa de Sarria where we just made it through the town as they were busy setting up for a Fiesta and there were people everywhere 10 mins after we passed the roads were closed.

We proceeded towards Fonts de la Algar on the Bolulla road which took us to Tarbena where we had another stop this time for a coke and an ice cream, we then continued on this road heading for Coll De Rates. This was a fantastic road steep but with magnificent views which we stopped and took pictures of, once we reached the top we took loads of pictures at the view point there is also a restaurant here which again was really busy as it was a national holiday weekend. We proceeded down the Coll de Rates at a considerable pace passing through Parcent, Alcalali and Xalo finally reaching Benissa picking up the N332 to Calpe where we stopped and had a menu del dia and a few beers. After lunch we picked up the N332 again and followed it all the way back to the Hotel in Altea where we parked up the bikes got changed and had a swim in the pool then relaxed in the sun with yet another beer. It was lovely and quiet and we were also back before Lynn and the girls who had caught the train outside the hotel to Denia for lunch and a look round. When the girls got back we all had about an hour in the sun before getting changed and meeting up in the Dining room for dinner which was brilliant. Monday morning all bright eyed we had breakfast and left the hotel all doing our own thing on the way back to Quesada. All in all a great weekend away. Here’s looking forward to returning again in April. Team “Cyclogical” meet every Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5.30pm and Sunday mornings at 8am and cover between 90 and 120kms at a moderate to fast pace so if you fancy a challenge come along and join us. Looking to improve your fitness, riding ability and speed and also have a new group of friends to train with then why not come along and give it a try or call Gary on 637487377.

www.alifeinspain.com - JAN 2018

LEG 2: Lisbon to Cape town Mapfre racing win Leg 2 When the boats left Lisbon, Portugal, on November 5 for leg two of the Volvo Ocean Race, on a 7,000-mile drive to Cape Town in high winds and big seas, the conditions the sailors got were wet, windy and wild. Dongfeng Race Team led the pack, recording a boat speed of 33 knots in winds of up to 35 knots, while the boats battled through the relentless high winds, 3-4 metre seas and cascades of water. The first 72 hours proved a challenge for the crews, not only to sail as fast as possible, but to live at an angle. “There’s no point in a day like today where you can’t stand up without holding onto something,” said Steve Hayles, leg two’s navigator on Team Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag. “There is lots of water around us, and on us. We’re completely soaked outside and inside our wet weather gear,” added Pascal Bidegorry, Dongfeng’s navigator, on day three. Even when the crews crossed the Equ ator and got to the Doldrums – traditionally an area of light wind – they got wind, rain, thunderstorms and spectacular cloud formations. For 21 days, there was no moment of rest, no moment to breathe, and certainly no moment to eat in a ‘normal’ position.

As the boats approached Cape Town, they did so in style, with an epic downwind ride in the South Atlantic trade winds. Temperatures plummeted in a cold front as wind speeds went back up to 30 knots. The crews layered up as they got their first taste of the Southern Ocean – more strong winds, but this time laced with icy temperatures, huge seas and freezing water. Strong gusts and a bumpy ride kept everyone on their toes, sometimes literally. “This part of the leg feels like when you’re stuck a chairlift in the rain and you can’t get off – cold, wet and no escape!” tweeted Kyle Langford, trimmer on Team Brunel, adding: “Lucky I love sailing.” “Sailing these Volvo boats when it’s windy, it’s really wet and really extreme,” said Nicolai Shested on Team AkzoNobel. “It’s a lot of water coming on the deck, a few tons of water, every 10 seconds. It’s water down your neck seal, it’s water in your eyes, your ears. It’s pretty much like being in a car wash.”

After a tight battle with Vestas 11th Hour Racing, Dongfeng Race Team and Team Brunel, MAPFRE arrived in Cape Town in first place after 19 days at sea, with Turn the Tide on Plastic bringing up the rear a day later, just 1 minute and 8 seconds behind their closest rivals SHK/Scallywag. Did we This is what it feels like to be relentless. The walls mention that this is after a 7,000 mile sail? That’s of water breaking over the deck. The fire hose of like racing an ultra marathon and everyone finishsalt water hitting you, trying to wash you off your ing within seconds of each other. feet. The pounding of the boat against the waves. The big seas. The seasickness, the cold, the mis- Just two legs into an 11-leg race, the drama is just ery, the exhaustion. The sore hands, the constant getting started… drip of water from your nose. The way damp gets into every single thing above and below deck.

D T

V T C n t a

T t I r p

C C s t t a N R t d I t w f

F l p i i

A a C r

CAPE TOWN IN-PORT RACE Dongfeng Race Team win a spectacular Cape Town In-Port Race Vestas 11th Hour Racing and Dongfeng Race Team traded blows throughout the first half of the Cape Town In-Port Race course on Friday afternoon, before the Chinese-French team grabbed the lead midway through the race and stretched away for their first win in the series. The victory vaults skipper Charles Caudrelier’s team to second place on the leaderboard for the In-Port Race Series, just behind MAPFRE who retained the overall lead with a fightback second place finish on Friday. Conditions were spectacular on the waters off Cape Town, with wind near 20 knots, under bright, sunny skies. Boat handling was at a premium in the fresh conditions and on the first two laps of the course, there were several very close crosses as the boats approached the turning gates. Near the end of the second run, Vestas 11th Hour Racing were sailing on an awkward wind angle to the mark and had difficulty furling their big A3 downwind sail in preparation for the rounding. It didn’t hurt them immediately but when they next tried to deploy the sail at the final top mark, it wouldn’t fully unfurl, and the team was very slow for most of the final run. Further back, Brunel and Scallywag engaged in a luffing match early on the first run. The Umpires penalised Scallywag for an infraction and following the penalty turn, David Witt’s team were trailing the fleet. At the finish, a hard-charging Brunel nearly stole a place from Turn the Tide on Plastic. But Dee Caffari’s team, who had a very strong start to the race, held on for fifth place.

LEG 3: Start Dongfeng Race Team and the Spanish MAPFRE squad were neck and neck leading the Volvo Ocean Race fleet out of Cape Town and towards the southernmost point of the African continent on Sunday. It was the eleventh time in the history of the event that the fleet had raced out of Cape Town, this time on a 6,500 nautical mile leg to Melbourne, Australia. The ETA is currently between the 24th and 26th of December. Conditions were ideal, with the famed Cape Doctor wind blowing at 20-25 knots. The fleet raced around a short triangle course in front of the city, before being freed to sprint off towards Australia. There was some drama for the Dongfeng team who had to make a late crew change just before leaving the dock. Daryl Wislang suffered a back strain this morning and the team decided not to risk having it flare up more while at sea. He stepped off the boat to be replaced by Fabien Delahaye. “Fortunately it seems the human mind forgets the bad times and only remembers the good, which is why we keep coming back.” A sentiment that is sure to be shared among the 63 sailors (and seven on board reporters) over the coming days.

Coffee

ou y o d How

? s r u o take y

Coffee in Spain is delicious and varied, but it takes some time to get used to the ritual of ordering it. Even so, if you learn how to order a coffee in Madrid, that doesn’t mean you will get the same in Alicante or in any other region. Starting with the safest option – Café Solo, which means single espresso. This is the most common type of coffee in Spain. Usually served in a small cup, Café Solo represents the basis for all Spanish coffees, being the strongest one. Oddly, Spaniards don’t seem to use it in order to wake up in the morning. They prefer to begin the day with Café con Leche, which is much weaker, and then have a Café Solo around 11 a.m. If you think Café Solo is too small, you’ll have to ask for a Café Doble (double espresso). If you find it too strong, ask for an Americano. Which is basically Café Solo with more water added, and finally, if you think none of these is your type, but you still don’t want milk, try a Café Suizo – café solo topped with whipped cream, or a Carajillo – the same Café Solo spiked with brandy or whiskey. They say Café con Leche is the second most popular coffee in Spain, but if you ask me, I would say this type is the nation’s regular drink. They wake up with Café con Leche, they end the day with Café con Leche, and they even drink it after any meal. The difference between Café Cortado and Café con Leche. Café Cortado is Café Solo with milk. Who would have thought that coffee in Spain could be named after the amount of milk added? Café Cortado is not Café con Leche, it is Café Solo with just a bit of milk, while Café Manchada is a little coffee with a lot of milk, not to mention the variations of coffee in Malaga – so entangled and hard to remember that they will only blur your mind instead of clarifying things. For those who don’t tolerate caffeine, there’s always the option of asking for a descafeinado. Be aware though, you should ask for a descafeinado de maquina, unless you want to get an instant coffee poured into a cup of hot milk. Café con Hielo is not that simple as you may think, you don’t just throw a couple of ice cubes in your cup of coffee. The ritual goes pretty much like this: Ask for a cup of coffee (black or white, it doesn’t matter) and a glass filled with ice cubes. Add the sugar in your hot coffee, stir until melted, and then pour the cup over the glass of ice. Drink it fast! After 10 minutes, in a hot summer day, it will lose all the charm. So, in summary: Café Solo – espresso Café Doble – double espresso Café con Leche – coffee with milk, usually half and half proportionally, but it depends on the region Café Cortado – espresso with a dash of milk Café con Hielo – espresso with ice Carajillo – espresso with a drop of brandy, whiskey, or rum Trifásico – Carajillo with a bit of milk, a Catalan specialty Café Bombón – Café Solo with condensed sweet milk Café Manchado – a glass of milk flavored with a bit of coffee Café Sombra – this is actually a Café Manchado in Andalusia Café Americano – large black coffee or Café Solo with more water added Café Suizo – coffee topped with whipped cream Café Caramel – espresso with condensed milk

Spanish recipe

Cocido Madrileño

. . . s t n e i d e r g n I

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

9 oz dried chickpeas soaked overnight 1 lb cured brisket of beef or silverside in one piece 9 oz salt pork belly, streaky bacon in one piece or fresh pork belly. 1 lb 4 oz knuckle gammon bone, with some meat attached 1 1/2 lb beef marrow bone, sawn accross 1/2 boiling chicken 1 pig’s trotter, split 1 whole garlic bulb 2 bay leaves 8 black peppercorns, crushed 1 small onion, studded with 2 cloves 1 1/2 lb Savoy cabbage, quartered 2 carrots, in big pieces 2 leeks, short lengths 1 lb new potatoes 2 chorizos, or other smoked sausage 1 morcilla or 7 oz black pudding.

. . . t i k o o c o t How Several hours before cooking, cover the salted meat (brisket or silverside, salt pork belly or bacon and gammon knuckle) with cold water and leave to soak. Choose a large stockpot - at least 10 pints (6 litre). Pack in all the meat, skin side down, with the beef bone. Fit the chicken and trotter on top. Add the garlic bulb, bay leaves and peppercorns and cover with water. Bring to a simmer, skimming off any scum that rises. Drain the chickpeas, add to the pot, cover and simmer on the lowest possible heat for 1.5 hours, checking occasionally. Half way through add the onion with the cloves. No other vegetables go in. In a second casserole, put the quartered cabbage, all the vegetables and all the sausages. If the black pudding has a plastic skin, remove it. Add water to cover the ingredients and a little salt and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook until the potatoes are ready. Drain the vegetables and sausages and slice the sausages. Arrange the vegetables decoratively on a platter and put the sausage slices on top. This can be served before the meat or alongside it. Remove the meats from the main pot, collecting the chickpeas together. Remove the marrow from the bone and slice it into the chickpeas. Slice all the meats. Arrange the meats and chickpeas on a platter, moistening them with a little broth.

www.alifeinspain.com -JAN 2018

North Town... Albir

ALBIR The small, modern resort of Albir can be found about 50 minutes drive North along the motorway from Alicante just beyond the lively resort of Benidorm.Unlike many other Costa Blanca towns Albir has been carefully planned virtually from scratch. Only one or two of the buildings are over five storeys high, its avenues are broad and tree lined, and there is plenty of parking. There is a sense of space and an unhurried atmosphere make getting around a pleasure.

Accommodation Hotels and Apartments are modern and limited but all are extremely good and offer excellent value for money. The clientele is International. Out and About A holiday in one of Albir’s modern hotels and apartments puts visitors in easy reach of some of the Costa Blanca’s best destinations. Altea, with its charming old town packed with restaurants and artist’s workshops, is just a short journey from Albir, while its busy harbour is quite literally a seafront stroll away. See Altea Benidorm, chock full of entertainment is easily and cheaply reached by the frequent bus service or taxi. The atmospheric Old Town, the shopping area, the big theme parks and wonderful shows and concerts are some of the highlights for daytime or evening pleasures. Festivals Albir’s climate, hot and dry in summer and nearly always dry and mild in winter, means that whatever the time of year its fiestas are celebrated outdoors in comfort. The main festivals are: March 19th – San Jose May (1st weekend) – Fiesta de la Creuta July (1st week) – Albir Film Festival August 1st to 15th – Summer Festival November - Honor del Santisimo Cristo del BuenAcierto December – Fiestas de la Purisima. The Beach With almost 600 metres of clean safe beach, there’s always plenty of room to stretch out. The Playa de Racó de l’Albir has been awarded the prestigious EU Blue Flag classification, denoting its excellent facilities and cleanliness, every year since 2001. The beach is comprised of very fine smooth pebbles and bathers can take in the views of the Sierra Helada nature reserve to one side, and to the other, the famous Peñon de Ifach, the massive outcrop of rock by Calpe. Beach facilities are excellent, in summer there are three lifeguards on duty, a first aid post and an ambulance on standby for minor injuries. There are public toilets in the centre of the promenade - how very convenient - and even fresh water foot showers. The beach side promenade, the Paseo de Las Estrellas - with Hollywood style plaques honouring the stars who have won awards at Albir’s film festival - is the focal point throughout the day. Morning joggers open it for business and it’s the main thoroughfare for beach users in the sunshine hours. The Paseo then comes into its own when a craft market is held there on balmy summer’s evenings and people stroll about without a care in the world. Eating Out and Shopping Albir is blessed with plenty of all types of restaurants; with cuisine from all over Europe and further afield to choose from you will find it easy to find the food for the mood. Also there are lots of nice little shops which make a pleasure to buy your souvenirs. Leisure & Culture As well as the summer fun Albir also has a host of activities in the cooler season. The Casa de Cultura cultural centre is busy all year round and has a concert hall, TV studios and exhibition space. It hosts the Film Festival, a Jazz Festival in October and has concerts by international dance companies and orchestras throughout the year.

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Mediterranean diet The Mediteranean diet was awarded the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity designation in 2010. This is because it is much more than just healthy food, and because it has been consolidated as culture that promotes social interaction, respect for the land and biodiversity, and preservation of traditional and craft activities connected with agriculture and fishing. The main ingredients of the Mediteranean diet are olive oil, cereals, fruits, vegetables, a moderate amount of meat, fish and dairy products, and a lot of seasoning and spices. It is usually consumed with wine or infusions. The UNESCO mentions Soria, in Castille-León, as a clear example of a city that is committed to the Mediterranean diet, even though it can be enjoyed all over Spain. Research has shown that the traditional Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of heart disease. The diet has been associated with a lower level of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol — the “bad” cholesterol that’s more likely to build up deposits in your arteries. In fact, a meta-analysis of more than 1.5 million healthy adults demonstrated that following a Mediterranean diet was associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality as well as overall mortality. The Mediterranean diet is also associated with a reduced incidence of cancer, and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Women who eat a Mediterranean diet supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil and mixed nuts may have a reduced risk of breast cancer. For these reasons, most if not all major scientific organizations encourage healthy adults to adapt a style of eating like that of the Mediterranean diet for prevention of major chronic diseases.

The Guns Of Navarone British ex-pats in this area of Spain sometimes call these weapons the “Guns of Mazarone,” not only failing to use the official name but also using some poetic license to mispronounce the name of the nearby town, Mazarrón to make a rhyme with “Navarone.” The comparison is not without a little justification. The gun battery was built to prevent enemy ships entering the bay to attack the important port and military arsenal at Cartagena. You really seem to be very high above the sea at Castillitos, though the actual altitude is only about 800 feet. The Bateria de Castillitos military buildings are extensive and were built in an ornate, crenelated style reminiscent of a Disney set. You can look inside a many of them including both the gun control bunkers and many of the crenelated towers. The highlights of the visit, however, are the massive 381mm guns with the 17m long barrels each mounted in an enormous turret. These guns were only ever fired once in action. This was during the Spanish Civil War by the Republican Forces against Franco’s Nationalist fleet in April 1937 (Cartagena was a strongly republican stronghold). After being demonstrated once it is unsurprising that these guns, that could fire a one-ton projectile over 35 miles, were not called upon to be used again. These, and several other, gun batteries overlooking the bay (the Bateria del Jorel, with its slightly smaller guns, is also worth a visit and has to be reached on foot further along the headland) were only taken out of service in 1994 but, given the advancement in naval offensive armaments since WW2, they would probably been little more than symbolic for many years. They were manufactured by the Vickers company in the UK in 1927 and 1928. Apparently these massive gun barrels were towed up the steep winding road by steam traction engines. After driving up there in a modern car the mind boggles at the prospect. Even the prospect of transporting numerous one-ton shells up there is amazing. After taking a good look at the guns and the military buildings it will then become clear that even without these features many people would be prepared to drive the long and winding (and obviously easily defended) route along that narrow road just to see the views (parking is reasonably plentiful and turning round is not a problem). Looking roughly west you stare out over shimmering waters of the Bay of Mazarrón in the opposite direction to look over Cartagena’s huge bay. On a sunny day there can be no better coastal views in Spain. Know Before You Go The guns are an amazing sight and you have to ask yourself how the authorities simply allow the public to wander about and even climb all over them. It is likely that the authorities will start to charge for entry and closely control access in future. To get to the Bateria from Mazarrón, take the RM-332 road which goes over the hills Cartagena, turning off at the roundabout with a lighthouse on it onto the E-22, towards El Mojón and then through Isla Plana. About a kilometre further on, turn right onto the RM-E23 to go through Campillo de Adentro and carry on past the large wooden notice board with a hikers route map just after crossing the Rambla de Azohia. Then follow a narrow and winding, former military, road to the crest of the peninsular. It is not a drive for drivers of a nervous disposition. After awhile you are likely to worry if you are on the right road as you climb higher and higher up to about 850 feet altitude before descending a little before you reach the parking and turning area. You may be unlucky enough to meet vehicles coming in the opposite direction. There are occasional passing places so take it steady and try to anticipate. The views along this road are magnificent but for the drive sightseeing is best left until the car is parked. There are no toilets and no catering at the site so be prepared.

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The Avalon team explain how diǀerent the complex funeral system is here in Spain to both non-residents and those that live here all year round. This aǀects everybody so we are committed to helping all UK, Irish and European citizens make informed choices. • We also check all types of insurance to ensure each person is covered for everything they need to be. • We oǀer a tailor made funeral plan to suit every client which is fixed at today’s cost.

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Scuba diving in Spain: Aguilas

Aguilas was a Roman fishing port, which was re-established when in 1785 it began to operate as a port of export for the produce of the Murcia regions fertile fields. It is one of the best places on the Mediterranean coast for scuba diving, thanks to its rocky seabed. Favourite diving areas are Fraile Island, this steep island on the south side has numerous large boulders to swim between where you can find moray and conger eels, grouper, octopus and hundreds of damsel fish following the natural slope of the island east takes you to shallower water also teeming with anchovies. Visibility is usually 20 m and mild current. The area around the rock of Cape Cope east of frailie has numerous diving sites. Los meros is a great dive to find grouper. The cueva de la virgen is close to many sunken old fishing boats sank around the peninsular almost 50 years ago as an area to attract fish and is now a protected area for divers to enjoy.

You can navigate from one wreck to another but they are spread out to make at least two dives. The boats are quite broken down but many marine creatures have made this their home, several moray eels here are huge and there is plenty of other fish in this area. Some sites the fish follow you due to people feeding them so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be surprised if a shoal of fish swims quickly towards you ! There are just a few dive centres but Zoea buceo is a friendly team to dive with and just on the doorstep is Hotel Puerto Juan Montiel which is a pleasant place to stay.

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Insure Spain is a fully legal and registered insurance company which was founded in 2016 by Peter Clarke. It is British run and all of the staff are British so there are no language barriers to contend with. The ethos behind the company are that of customer service and true British values. Insure Spain cover all types of insurance including Car insurance House insurance Golf insurance Pet insurance Health insurance Travel insurance Life insurance Funeral insurance And much more Insure Spain was Founded as a result of poor service and none payment of claims by a different insurance company. Peter said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have lived in Spain for over 16 years and have been the victim of poor service by various insurance companies. I decided that enough was enough and that it was about time someone set up an insurance company that put you the customer first.â&#x20AC;? 6 months later Peter was qualified and registered as an independent broker and set up Insure Spain. Now in its second year they are helping people get top quality insurance at the right price. They work hard to search for the best value cover for you whatever your needs are. They work with major companies such as Liberty Seguros and ASSSA so you are always in safe hands. Why not give them a call or send an email and let them try to save you money.

Insure Spain Tel: 660 170 355 Email info@insurespain.com www.insurespain.com

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Music in Spain In this issue we will concentrate on the music of the Basque Country. The most popular music is that which accompanies the “Trikitixia” dance. The music is mainly based on two instruments, the accordion and the tambourine. There are of course other unique instruments played such as the “txistu” which is similar to the tabor pipe, a type of recorder mentioned in an earlier issue, the “alboka” which is a strange double clarinet and the “txalaparta” which is a huge xylophone, similar to a Romanian “toača” and is played by two musicians. Singing has always played an important part in Basque culture on both sides of the Spain/ France border. A surge of Basque nationalism at the end of the 19 th century, led to the formation of large Basque language choirs. These helped to preserve their language and songs. Even throughout Franco’s “persecution years”, when the Basque language was outlawed, the songs and dances were defiantly preserved in secret. They continue to thrive, thank goodness, despite all the commercially marketed pop music.

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As mentioned, dancing is very important in this region and there are many variations including traditional dances with sticks, swords and believe it or not, arches made from vegetation. And why not? There are many types of dance including, fandango, jota and the zortzico. Once again, Youtube provides lots of good film. For example, type into the search, “Fandango”, as mentioned in the Queen song, Bohemian Rhapsody. Some artists to look out for are: Oskorri (Band), Kepa Junkera (Accordion), Joseba Tapia (Accordion and singer), Benito Lertxundi (singer) and Oldarra ( a basque choir). Sadly there are few CD shops around nowadays but if you travel to the Basque area or anywhere else for that matter, check out the local Tourist Offices who usually stock a reasonable selection of “ethnic” music.

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SOLE AGENT OR MULTI-LISTING? So it’s taken a while, but finally you’ve come to the decision that now is the right time to sell your home. You’ve enjoyed lots of fun times and can share some great memories, but now the time has come to move on with your book of life and start a new chapter somewhere else. “Where do we start?” “Who do we use?” “We’ve never sold property in Spain before!” I hear these comments everyday and reassure all of our clients that by choosing the right Estate Agent, your concerns will be put to rest by the end of the listing appointment. I always advise all sellers to be ready for their appointment with pen and paper. It is helpful to you the seller, to have your questions written down ready to go point by point. By going through your list, will not only put your minds at rest, but it will help the Estate Agent too as they will be able to understand your worries and can guide you through the whole process. Some Estate Agents offer multi-listing options whilst others like us, are Sole Agents. Multi-listing means that if you choose to list your property for sale with numerous agents, you’ll find yourself doing all of the leg work and not really using the services of the Estate Agent you have chosen to represent you. You don’t want to go running between agent to agent notifying each and every one of thetimes when you can’t be reached whilst on holiday or your potential price reduction. Not only is it time consuming but it’s also causing you to do the work.But the worst is not knowing exactly who has your keys! If you were happy with the Estate Agent you’ve chosen to begin this journey with, then you shouldn’t feel like you need to work with anyone else. If you experience that thought of “I must inform everyone that my property is for sale,” then you obviously don’t have much faith in the Agent you have chosen. Think about it! Why choose them in the first place if you’re seeking an alternative? The one agent you choose should know your home inside out, but enlisting numerous agents at the same time may not allow them to fully concentrate on your home. You can’t blame them, it’s so time consuming just making sure the price they have on your home is the same as every other agent is a full time job in itself.

Haven’t you ever wondered why you see reference numbers on for sale boards? It’s because the agent has too many homes for sale and yours turns into just a number. Yes they sell them, but only because someone wants to buy it, not because it’s being sold to them. I know I get frustrated when I go to buy say, a new television. The salespeople don’t inform us the consumers, of all the features, but they still sell them because we the consumer,go in the store wanting to buy it. Well it’s the same concept with selling houses. If your agent knows your home well enough, with just one phone call from a potential buyer, they should be able to recall the street, features of the home and most importantly the price.

With a Sole Agent, they do work harder to sell the home because they’re the ones doing all of the marketing and not sitting back relying on the expertise of others.You’ll probably find they’ll have a larger advertising budget and company Euros to match it, means gaining greater exposure to the largest number of buyers. See how they’re the ones doing all of the leg work, informing everyone about their New Listing?They can’t rely on other Agents selling it on their behalf. Not only is their commission on the line, but their reputation too. Another upside to being with one agent is you know exactly who has your house keys. They are the only ones accountable for accessing your home. So whether you decide to go “solo” or “multi”, choosing the right Estate Agent should make the complete selling experience as stress free as possible. If you think its expensive hiring a professional to sell your home, try hiring an amateur!