A Life in Spain – Edition 14 November2017

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Volvo Ocean Race 2017-18 Race Report

NORTH TOWN

Wine Region

La Romana, Costa Blanca

Company Profile

Ribera del Duero

Malvina Gift Shop

issue 14 NOV 2017

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PAGES 11

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#Edition14 • November 2017

Spanish recipe

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Spanish Lentil Soup (Sopa de Lentejas)

Valuable tips for a greener home (Part 1).

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Wine Region:

Volvo Ocean Race 8&9 20 & 21

Ribera del Duero

A life on the course...

LO ROMERO GOLF

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. . . e l fi o r p y n a p Com Malvina Gift Shop

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Scuba Diving in Spain: Ship wrecks of Cabo de Palos

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Welcome to the November edition of ALIS. Remember, remember the 5th of November... and all of that. November really is literally an explosive month.

Because ALIS is distributed on or around the 15th of the month, Bonfire night has already passed. However, Christmas (yes I did use the non-politically correct word) is just around the corner. The ´decs´ are going up, and the festive season has begun.

So, what’s in this issue?

The wine region this month is the fantastic region of Ribera Del Duero. This is a region that I love, and well worth a visit. Juan, the architect brings us ways to make your home greener.

Whilst The north town feature is on La Romana and the south town is Lorca

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Unibike 2017 The Spanish Bike Show

contact ALIS:

enquiries@alifeinspain.com peter.clarke@alifeinspain.com

In last months ALIS, in the article about UP Now TV we referred to the main sponsor of the film as Homes 4 U. Their correct name is Inmobiliaria Real Estate Agents of Ciudad Quesada..

Sorry for any confusion caused. You can visit their website which is www.homes4u.es or see their advert on page 22 Remember – all of our articles and over 8,000 properties for sale and rent are available online at:

www.alifeinspain.com ALIS is not responsible for the accuracy or content of any articles published in the magazine or online and proffessional advice is reccomended. ALIS does not endorse any company advert or article herein. We try to make sure the content is accurate but cannot be held responsible for inaccuracy.

TEL: 660 170 355 deposito legal: MU 1390-2016

www.alifeinspain.com - Nov 2017

05

Valuable tips for a greener home (Part 1).

Yesterday, the electricity was cut off by the electrical company about five times at our offices. It was around 5.00pm temperature outside was approximately 40ºC104º Fahrenheit.

Yes, everyone was having the air con at full blast; it was that or having drops of sweat pouring over the paperwork. After restarting the pc’s five times we all thought of switching off any irrelevant machinery (except the air con) and we switched off two printers, the plotter and shut off the air vent of two rooms where there were no one at the time.

We made some rough calculations and we were saving about 1 kw. of energy, that made us aware of how much energy we can save or waste foolishly. So I thought of different actions that citizens could put into practices in their homes to become more sustainable and save money and share it with you. I am sure we can do much more than what we believe to combat climate change, pollution and overexploitation of natural resources and to pay less in our fuel bill.

Various ecological measures could be applied that will help improve the environment and, in turn, save money.

This article outlines a number of tips for a greener home.

Replace incandescent light bulbs with led lighting.

Incandescent bulbs waste energy and last less than led lighting: it is estimated that only 5% of the energy consumed by a typical model of 100 watts (W) results in light (95% in waste heat) and the useful a life is 1,000 hours. The European Union (EU) has approved a policy for gradual withdrawal of incandescent lighting that will end in September 2016.

Consumers can do more than they think about the environment from home. Led light bulbs are good for the environment and for your pockets, because they are more efficient (in producing light) and last longer than incandescent. In the market you can find various models and types such as compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), halogen or even better still, LED. In any case, whether they are efficient or not, you should turn them off when not required: the cleanest energy is that which is not used.

Use reusable products and packages.

Against the throwaway policies and its negative consequences, the reuse of packaging and other products extends its life and provides a reduction in waste and a good savings for the domestic economy.

The ways that you can reuse product at home are very diverse: using textile bags against plastic specially of a single use, aluminium or steel containers to store food, glass bottles for storing and serving water instead of plastic bottled, linen cloths instead of paper towels, rechargeable batteries, etc. etc Install water-saving and energy systems.

The water waste and energy resources may harm the environment, while adding a considerable economic cost. Therefore, we should consume only when absolutely necessary and take various actions to achieve a sustainable use of them.

In the case of water you can take five-minute showers instead of baths, washing clothes with cold water programs, using high-efficiency dishwasher to reduce water and energy consumption, avoid wasting water taps, installing water savers systems, etc.

As for energy, the potential for savings are also diverse: appliances which use high energy efficiency lamps; install renewable systems for electricity or hot water, such as photovoltaic panels or solar thermal systems (it is a crime not to install solar thermal panels in Spain); switch off appliances that are in “standby” mode; instead of using an oven use microwave; improve the thermal insulation at home so that heat will not escape in winter or rise in in summer; clothesline outdoors rather than tumble dry, etc.

Recycling and composting waste.

Recycling avoid filling landfills and extraction of new raw materials, in addition to reducing energy consumption and the emission of greenhouse gases that cause climate change.

Also, existing materials can be recycled to make new products. Therefore, inhabitants of an eco- house, friendly to the environment should have an area for storing and separate waste so that can then be taken to the appropriate waste container.

Composting is a system that transforms organic waste into a material capable of enriching plants and crops. A simple container, a few tips and a little patience are enough for anyone to compost at home.

Next week we will continue with further tips on how to save energy and be friendlier....with the environment and your fellow homo sapiens.

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www.alifeinspain.com -NOV 2017

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Wine Focus...

Ribera del Duero Ribera del Duero is an important wine-producing area in Castilla y Leon, northern Spain.

Its reputation is largely thanks to the high-quality of its red Tempranillo-based wines, the best examples of which are renowned throughout the world. The capital of Ribera del Duero is the historic town of Aranda de Duero, which boasts a series of antique underground cellars (bodegas) built to store wine.The interconnecting cellars reach a depth of 40ft (12m) in places. Despite a long history of winemaking, Ribera del Duero was not awarded DO status until 1982. A corresponding Consejo Regulador (wine-regulating authority) was then established to administer it.

BACKGROUND Ribera del Duero sits on the elevated northern plateau of the Iberian Peninsula at 2800ft (800m) above sea level. It is divided by the Duero River (as its name would suggest – Ribera del Duero means ‘bank of the Duero’), which provides the local vineyards with a much-needed water supply.

The region’s inland location, coupled with the sheltering effects of the nearby Sierra de la Demanda and Sierra de Guadarrama mountain ranges, creates an extreme climate in which hot and dry summers are followed by harsh winters. Temperatures can range from –0.4F to 104F (–18C to 40C) and winter and even spring frosts are a real threat here. In the growing season, the high daytime temperatures are combined with considerably cooler nights – a condition which assists in the optimum accumulation of aromas and other chemical compounds (phenolics) in the grapes.

Alternating layers of limestone, marl and chalk under silt and clay topsoil add complexity and character to Ribera del Duero wines.

The leading local producer is Bodegas Vega Sicilia, which took the wine world by storm with its ‘Unico’ wine. Tinto Pesquera is another renowned brand, created by the region’s best-known winemaker, Alejandro Fernández. The success of Vega Sicilia and Pesquera quickly turned local producers away from bulk rosé and selling to co-operatives and focused their attentions on making quality reds. Other prominent producers include Dominio de Pingus and Emilio Moro.

Nowadays, Ribera del Duero is almost entirely devoted to red wine, with Tempranillo the most widely planted grape variety. It is known locally either as Tinto Fino or Tinta del Pais and produces wines which are deeply colored, with a firm tannin structure and complex aromas of mulberry and blackberry. Most of the top examples age gracefully for years. According to DO regulations, Tempranillo must make up a minimum of 75% of all vinos tintos (red wines). The balance is made up of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec (varieties that were introduced

by Vega Sicilia well over a century ago) or up to 5% of Albillo or Garnacha.

Garnacha is used for most rosé wines, and a few wineries employ small quantities of Bordeaux varieties in their red blends. Albillo is the only white grape grown in Ribera del Duero, producing wines for local consumption that don’t qualify for the Ribera del Duero DO title, or in minor quantities as a softener for heavy reds.

www.alifeinspain.com -NOV 2017

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

Lo Romero Golf

From the platforms of the teeing area you can see the holes and most of the course

This month we are looking at the Lo Romero Golf.The elevation of the teeing area above the area between the tee and the putting green gives a better flight to the ball and, as a result of this, a second PW-shot can be obtained The out of bounds along the left side can be easily seen from any point.

To the right of the fairway, in the Rough, there is a bunker at the same level as the landing area,

which holds those balls deflecting from the fairway and stops them from landing in the stream, lateral water hazard, running along the right hand side of the hole.

The green is protected by a bunker on the left front and by a lake along the right to the back of the green. The typical hole number one can be classified as an easy and short one which allows you to speed up the game and to warm-up.

The greens are big and quick and one paced super, really interesting holes dog legs etc. the walks between tee and green are not too long. The 18th is the star of the show but the par 3s are all a good test.

Definitely would play again.

However would play off back tees as some of the holes are a little bit short off the yellow markers.A brilliant course for a holiday round.

Year Built2007 Designer/sJorgeGuillén ManagerD. Jaime IbañezPeñalver PresidentD. Mariano Muñoz Orejon GreenkeeperJose Martinez Golf ProfessionalAlex Ward Layout difficulty 3 (1 easy to 5 hard) Approx. tee interval 8 min.

Buggy recommended not necessary Buggy allowed in fairway Yes Maximum Handicaps Gents: 36 Ladies: 36 Green Fee, normal price 46€.

www.alifeinspain.com -NOV 2017

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We would like to announce the OPENING of our NEW Office in PILAR DE LA HORADADA. The new office will service the areas around Pilar de la Horadada, Torre de la Horadada, Pinar de Campoverde, San Miguel de Salinas, Villamartin and Vistabella Golf.

Murcia Villas for all your property needs.

Our services include: Property Sales Property Rentals Property Management Keyholding Pool and Garden Maintenance Air Conditioning Maintenance Calle Pedro Gea,9, Pilar de la Horadada, 03190 Telephone: 634307526or 968033128Website: www.murciavillas.com

E-mail: dave@murciavillas.com

Juice Cure COLD: carrot, pineapple, ginger, garlic DEPRESSION: carrot, apple, spinach, beet or noni HEADACHE: apple, cucumber, kale, ginger, celery DIABETES: carrot, spinach, celery ULCER: cabbage, carrot, celery ASTHMA: carrot, spinach, apple, garlic, lemon HIGH B.P.: beet, apple, celery, cucumber, ginger ARTHRITIS: carrot, celery, pineapple, lemon KIDNEY DETOX: carrot, watermelon, cucumber, cilantro EYES: carrot, celery STRESS: banana, strawberry, pear CONSTIPACION: carrots, apple, fresh cabbage FATIGUE: carrots, beets, green apple, lemon, spinach INDIGESTION: pineapple, carrot, lemon, mint HANGOVER: apple, carrot, beet, lemon MEMORY LOSS: pomegranate, beet, grapes NERVOUSNESS: carrot, celery, pomegranate

North Town...

La Romana

La Romana is a village of some 2500 people, located in the foothills of the Serra del Reclot a few kilometres from Algueña and several kilometres from Hondón de las Nieves and Novelda, in the autonomous community of Valencia, southern Spain.

The village is surrounded by countryside where vineyards and almond orchards are grown. The area is also noted for the number of quarries producing marble and limestone. There are a number of cave dwellings around La Romana which are still in use, many having been converted into modern homes. The main village is set out on a grid pattern of mostly one-way streets, with very few buildings higher than one storey, with clean, tree lined streets.

The town’s popular fiesta is held in the 3rd week of August each year, with a humorous parade held on the Thursday and Moors and Christians parades on the Friday and Saturday.

In the autumn a gastronomica is held in the park.

In the town you will find a mix of shops, bars and restaurants, both English and Spanish.

You will also find 2 of our advertisers, La Romana Self Storage, and Malvina Gift shop.

Both adverts can be found on page 14.

Colin runs La Romana Self storage and offers secure units from 11M2 and from 25€ per month.

Malvina Gift shop is a lovely shop packed with gifts and artisan. They also now have their Christmas stock on sale.

You will also find Route 66 bar. If you like great home-made burgers, sandwiches and cakes in big portions, you’ll love La Romana’s taste of the USA at Tel’ and Akin’s Route 66 Deli!

At the back of the petrol station you can find Bodega Bocopa. This bodega offers wine tasting and has a cellar/shop open to the public.

There is a small weekly street market on Saturdays, around where the covered daily market is.

La Romana

www.alifeinspain.com - NOV 2017

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Unibike 2017 The Spanish Bike Show

On Friday 22nd September2017 I left a sleepy Quesada at 5.30 am accompanied by our apprentice mechanic Harry Morrow and stepson Moth Robertson and headed for Alicante to catch the High speed train to Unibike in Madrid. We boarded the train and left Alicante at 7.10 and were soon sitting in comfort with issue headphones, a good video and a cup of coffee, this is the way to travel stress free. Just after 9am we arrived in Madrid station and caught a taxi direct to the Recinto Ferial Ifema (Madrid’s exhibition centre). Last year we got the underground and we seemed to take forever with 3 train changes so this year we took a taxi and got there in half an hour and also saw a bit of the city.

On arrival we checked in and got our security passes took a few pictures and proceeded into the main hall.

Unibike consisted of 3 large halls with all the main bike and accessory dealers from all over Spain having large displays. Having Harry with us last year was a god send as he talks Spanish like a machine gun. It was really beneficial for us as we now buy direct from many Spanish company’s including Shimano Spain.

Our first impression on entering the main hall was the amount of dealers who were there, every bike manufacturer that you can think of was represented.

After a few hours looking at the new models and new accessories, we had a well deserved lunch break where we took time to review and consider the different models and companies we would like to start working with.

Exercise is necessary in our lives, as we all know.

People who are physically active are much less likely to develop heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke, depression, disabilities in old age or to die prematurely. Despite these benefits many people still do not exercise and they always have the same excuses, they don’t have time or they aren’t fit enough to exercise.

Most of them are around 22-25kg in weight and have 36volt lithium batteries which can travel for around 80-100kms at speeds of between 20 and 25km per hour. If you are thinking about getting an E-Bike but not sure or never tried one just call in and speak with Lynn or myself and we will advise you and let you try one.

We had 2 members of our Hybrid groups 1 male and 1 female change onto e-bikes in the past few weeks as they are 70 years old now and were both struggling to keep up with the rest of the groups especially on the return trip now the groups struggle to keep up with them the change is amazing especially as they were both considering packing in cycling. So don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today.

Gary and Lynn are available at “Cyclogical” in Quesada, Monday to Friday from 9.30am – 5.30pm and from 10.00am – 2.00pm on a Saturday to assist and advise you on all your cycling requirements including their Route Map books.

www.alifeinspain.com - NOV 2017

19

MAPFRE draw first blood in 2017-18 Volvo It was a comprehensive victory for the Spanish team in the MAPFRE In-Port Race Alicante.

October 14, 2017 11:18 UTC The local heroes on Xabi Fernández’s MAPFRE were a popular winner in the first point scoring race of the 2017-18 Volvo

But behind them, it was a hard-fought race. Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag was strong on the first leg, but dropped back over the course of the race. In contrast, Dongfeng Race Team fought up the fleet to grab second place, battling with Vestas 11th Hour Racing and Team Brunel who were trading places throughout the race.

Fernández and his team made a bold call at the start to duck behind the entire fleet in order to sail up what turned out to be the favoured right hand side of the course, coming from behind to earn a narrow lead at the first gate.

“There was a lot of action! MAPFRE played their own game alone but behind them, we had a big fight for second place. It’s good, it’s good,” said skipper Charles Caudrelier on Dongfeng Race Team.

“It was pretty clear from Joan (Vila) and Rob (Greenhalgh) that we wanted to hit the right side of the course in the first upwind looking for more breeze,” explained Fernández.

“It was a very exciting first In-Port Race for us,” said Charlie Enright, the skipper of Vestas 11th Hour Racing. “They’re always really close. You know, when you’re racing these 65-foot canting keel boats around a one-mile track it gets interest“Our intention was to start on port but Pablo ing, with a lot of exchanges and big headsails and (Arrarte) saw the gap himself when Brunel did a a lot of grinding. We did some good things and poor tack and they couldn’t accelerate so we want some bad things and got third place. All in all, not for the cross and we had plenty of room and once a bad way to start the campaign.” we hit the right everything went well.”

“I had a bad start and that put us on the back MAPFRE then managed to stretch out to a lead of foot,” said Bouwe Bekking the skipper of Team nearly one-minute at the bottom gate, giving them Brunel. “But we sailed the boat very nicely. All in a lead they would enjoy the rest of the way. all, we’re pretty happy with how we sailed today.”

“The truth is it hasn’t been an easy race but we Sun Hung Kai / Scallywag made a late gain to took a bit of a risk at the start,” Fernández said grab fifth over team AkzoNobel with Turn the Tide after the finish. “We saw the gap in front of Brunel on Plastic never recovering from a poor first leg. and we went for it. Everything went really well.”

“It was okay. Fifth’s not great but it was okay. We In fact, the Spanish team sailed a flawless race, in were second at the top but we just made one terms of strategy and execution, and were never mistake on the first run and it cost us. Basically, it threatened after grabbing the lead at the first was good. Amazing to be racing here in Alicante,” mark. said David Witt, the skipper of Sun Hung Kai / Scallywag.

LEG 1: ALC-LIS Dongfeng Race Team powered its way into an early lead on Sunday, pushing penalties on its two closest competitors, in hard-fought racing as the Volvo Ocean Race 2017-18 got underway.

The fleet of seven of the best sailing teams in the world started Leg 1, a 1,450 nautical mile sprint to Lisbon, Portugal in bright sunshine and a 15-20 knot Easterly breeze.

The bay off the Alicante sea front was crowded with hundreds of spectator boats, ringing a short inshore race course, before the fleet was free to fly off, downwind, towards Gibraltar.

They were treated to some of the most intense racing ever seen in the opening minutes of a Volvo Ocean Race. The highlight came on the approach to the final turning mark before leaving the bay, when Dongfeng Race Team came screaming in on a collision course with Team Brunel and MAPFRE, both of whom were forced into a quick gybe to avoid the right of way Chinese boat.

Separated by less than a meter at times, as they went through their manoeuvres, the on water Umpires judged neither Brunel nor MAPFRE had kept sufficiently clear and penalised both, pushing them back down the fleet.

After winning round one of the fight, Dongfeng then sped off with the lead, with Sun Hung Kai/ Scallywag, Vestas 11th Hour Racing and Turn the Tide on Plastic in close pursuit. All three would thread their way through the spectator fleet, at times within an arm’s length of the astonished guests, before finding a clear passage out to sea.

Before racing started, the intensity and drama played out dockside, with team AkzoNobel submitting its final crew list just ahead of the dockout time.

The team has been in flux since it was announced one week ago that original skipper Simeon Tienpont had left the team and had been replaced by watch captain Brad Jackson.

But on Friday evening, Tienpont won an arbitration judgement allowing him to return to the team and just hours before start time, the team submitted an updated crew list with Tienpont leading a newly constituted squad. Jackson, as well as previous navigator Jules Salter, are not on the boat.

“I am relieved to be back with my team and excited to be getting our Volvo Ocean Race campaign underway,” Tienpont said in a statement thanking Jackson as well as Sun Hung Kai/Scallywag, who agreed to let António Fontes race with the AkzoNobel crew for Leg 1.

With the start behind them, the teams will settle into the routine of life at sea, as they begin the first leg of what will be a 45,000 nautical mile race around the planet. The intensity shown during the first hour of the first leg, when the fight was for every metre, demonstrates just how competitive this Volvo Ocean Race will be.

WE HELP PEOPLE THROUGHOUT SPAIN EVERY DAY

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.

Tel: 968 151 089 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.

Avalon Team Avalon has onjces throughout Spain

671 935 072

All our members are covered in Spain and the UK. You will automatically be covered immediately regardless of health issues or age.

Spanish recipe

Spanish Lentil Soup (Sopa de Lentejas)

. . . s t n e i d e r g In 1 pound dry lentils 5 medium potatoes 2 carrots 2 celery ribs 3 garlic cloves 4 boneless pork loin chops 2 links Spanish chorizo sausage 2 tablespoons Spanish virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin Water Salt and pepper to taste

. . . t i k o o c o t How

1. Begin by sorting through the lentils to remove any debris or rocks. Make sure to be thorough, as there is nothing worse that a stone in lentil soup.

2. Then, rinse the dry lentils under cold water and place the lentils into a medium saucepan and cover with water. Soak the lentils for 1 hour.

3. While the beans are soaking, peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Trim and peel the carrots and dice them into 1/2-inch cubes. Trim and cut the celery ribs into a medium dice. Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Set the vegetables aside.

1. Cut the pork loin into 1-inch cubes and the chorizo into 1/2-inch chunks.

2. Pour the olive oil into a large pot and heat on medium. When the oil is hot, add the vegetables and cumin and sautĂŠ for 3 to 5 minutes.

3. Add the pork cubes and chorizo, and sautÊ for 3 more minutes, making sure that the meat doesn’t stick.

4. Add just enough water to the pot to completely cover the vegetables and meat. Bring the water to a boil.

5. Drain the lentils and add them to the pot. Bring back to the boil, reduce heat and simmer until the lentils are cooked, about 1 hour. Check the pot every 15 to 20 minutes. Add additional water if/when needed.

6. When the lentils are fully cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve in bowls with rustic bread on the side.

www.alifeinspain.com -NOV 2017

25

South Town...

LORCA Lorca, was declared a Town of Historical and Artistic Interest in 1964 and is described as “the baroque city� due to the important baroque heritage of its historical centre. One of the most important in the Region, and the historical events that have shaped modern Lorca from the Iron Age to our time.

Mention must be made of the numerous archaeological sites, the ColumnaMiliaria dating from Roman times, the Espolón Tower and the Alfonsina Tower, a Christian construction dating from after the Reconquest; the “Porche de San Antonio”, the gate through the old wall that surrounded the city (in the 10th century), the numerous churches and convents dating from different periods and built in different styles (15th century to the 18th century), the baroque palaces and stately homes, such as the Guevara Palace, the Palace of the Counts of San Julián or Casa de la Mula, the military fortress that restructures the medieval castle on an inexpugnable site, or the paved streets around Plaza de España, with popular architectural buildings imbued with strong traditional character, such as La Zapatería y La Cava.

The people of Lorca are the protagonists of, and the driving force behind, the changes that are taking place in the town, and aimed at designing a strategy that will help to interpret, establish themes and communicate its rich heritage, and with which will help to bring visitors to the historical, cultural, architectonic and artistic values of Lorca, in an attractive, interesting and unique way.

If you want adventure then Lorca “Workshop of Time” will give you as a visitor what you are looking for: the adventure of immersing yourself in everything that Lorca signifies. Its streets, its wealth of monuments and its urban atmosphere can all be appreciated via the following four Cultural Itineraries which when finally completed reveal a multiple, diverse and historical world; “Entre el cielo y el suelo” (Between Heaven and Earth) “Tiempo de contratiempos” (Timed and mistimed) “La ciudad de loscien escudos” (The city of the one hundred coats of arms) “Tiempo de devoción” (A Time for Devotion).

Your visit to the Archaeological Museum will bring to fulfillment your knowledge and enjoyment of the rich history of this city.

Lorca, “Workshop of Time” is also proposing a new Visitor Activity Centre in the recently restored Convent of Lorca building. The abundant historical evidence which remains from Lorca’s frontier times and from the time of the Moors and Christians has made Lorca one of the most important historical centres in the whole of South Eastern Spain. Its castle with its imposing appearance is being converted into a theme area to be known as Fortress of the Sun. Here the visitor will be able to live out “an experience through the periods of History”.

You will also find centuries worth of craft traditions still being enjoyed; expert hands which can transform nature into hand-produced rugs, embroidery and pottery. In addition to all of this, Lorca, “Workshop of Time” savours and learns things from Easter week and other examples from its full annual calendar of traditional festivities: The Feria Chica (Small Fair), in September, which pays homage to the Virgin of the Huertas (the agricultural country around Lorca) The Day and Night Fairs, which greet the end of the summer and fill the streets with local snacks, wine and folklore The Moors and Christians festival during San Clemente, with its horses, troops, armies and mediaeval markets.

Visitors are always made more than welcome in Lorca, and its year-round good weather, restaurants, hotels and first-class tourist infrastructures, all combine to add to the rural tourism on offer in the largest district in the Region of Murcia. The city and its nearness to its many mountain chains and areas of great natural beauty make Lorca a place to really have a good time. www.alifeinspain.com - NOV 2017 27 www.alifeinspain.com - NOV 2017 27

History of

Flamenco dancing

Flamenco is one of the most characteristic elements of Spanish culture, especially throughout the southern region of Andalucía. Which is why several schools offer Spanish and Flamenco courses, where you can learn Spanish while learning how to dance flamenco.

History of Flamenco Dance To point out the stomping feet and fiery passion is merely brushing the surface of flamenco dance. Flamenco dance, as one-third of the quintessential Spanish phenomenon of flamenco, has an extensive historical background that parallels the cultural development of Spain itself.

Hailing from southern Spain’s outcast populations, flamenco dance and music drew early influences from the Greeks and Romans and later from Indian, Moorish, and Jewish cultures. With the arrival of the Moorish and Jewish populations to the Iberian peninsula centuries ago, Andalusia’s already thriving music and dance inadvertently began extracting characteristics from the newly-arrived populations.

The flamenco dance and music that we see today are the dazzling results of centuries of absorbing and flawlessly sewing together elements of this myriad of diverse cultures.

With the flourishing development of flamenco music emerged the equally rapid evolution of flamenco dance, which first appeared recognisably as a structured dance in the 18th century. While flamenco’s design in its origin revolves around the hearty voice of the singer, the impassioned flamenco dancers stunned audiences in special music cafés - called cafés cantantes - and quickly began stealing the show. Centuries of cultural melding later, what ironically began in caves as a form of personal expression by gypsies and other oppressed ethnicities has evolved into the flashy flamenco dance and music that has taken the world by storm.

Flamenco Dance Technique

Flamenco Dance While the common denominators of passion and fervor never waiver, there is no one single flamenco dance. In fact, depending on the criteria of mood intention, the set of melodic phrases and the cultural traditions behind each song, flamenco dance actually manifests itself in more than 50 distinct palos (types of flamenco dance)! Both flamenco music and flamenco dance involve a great deal of personal improvisation which takes its form through the spontaneous expression of the performer’s emotions at each moment of the performance. However, personal expression must adhere to the strict framework of flamenco music’s traditions and rhythmic patterns.

Flamenco Dancers In a flamenco performance, the dancer - or bailaor(a) - will often stand motionless for the first moments absorbing the strums of the guitar, the clapping, and the singing until the inspiration hits him/her. Then he or she will launch into a flamenco dance every bit as passionate as the song being belted out by the cantantaor- you can even see the explosion of emotions in the dancer’s facial expressions throughout the performance.

The role of the flamenco dancer is essentially to physically interpret the words - which often express the great lament of the persecuted ethnicities of flamenco’s history - with light, graceful arm movements that contrast the reverberating steps as feet drill into the floor with a bewildering intensity. Duets, performed by a man and a woman, are often the most vivid flamenco dances.

The dancers keep their eyes firmly locked each other, constantly and aggressively building off one another in what becomes competition of passion, sexual tension, and emotion.

Snow Wells a ñ u p s E a r r e Si Some of the most popular curiosities in Sierra Espuña Regional Park are its snow wells.

These constructions have been used from the 16thC to the 20thC order to keep snow and supply ice to people in Alhama and the surrounding areas. Now in disuse, they act as witnesses for a way of life from the past. There are 25 of them among the summits of the Regional Park but... You have to climb up 1,400m to enjoy them. Quite an experience Sierra Espuña contains Murcia’s largest extensions of forest, as well as being one of its most emblematic areas of outstanding natural beauty. Its modern verdure is due in large part to reforestation campaigns carried out towards the end of the 19th Century by Murcian philanthropist Ricardo Codorníu, known by the nickname the Tree Apostle.

The districts bordering the area are Río Mula (Mula and Pliego) and Sierra Espuña (Alhama de Murcia, Totana, and Aledo). Mula and Pliego nestle between the Espuña and Ricote ranges and are places steeped in local tradition and culture, which, along with the area’s scenery make them an ideal stopping place on inland routes in the region. Alhama de Murcia, Totana, and Aledo are all within easy reach of these wooded uplands, which naturally form part of the identity of the towns themselves.

The district is also known for its pottery manufacturing, and Totana is Spain’s second most important area for pottery production. The district of Aledo has kept alive the tradition under the gaze of its Moorish watchtower and has dominated the valley since the days when it bore witness to skirmishes between Christians and Moors.

The Regional Park of Sierra Espuña and its surroundings has become the first protected natural space of the Region of Murcia, supported by the European Charter of Sustainable Tourism, CETS. ‘Source: murciaturistica.es’

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Scuba diving in Spain: Ship wrecks of Cabo de Palos

The region of Murcia and in particular the ancient town of Cartagena and surrounding coastal towns such as cabo de palos has seen many ships sail these waters for well over a 2000 years.

During this period there has been many ships sunk due to storms, hitting offshore reefs, and in battles from as early as the roman and Carthaginian battles to WW1 and WW2. Due to the area’s history we have many different and exciting wrecks , some are still very much intact to the occasional object being found such as an ancient anchor or amphora’s being overturned in a storm that have been lying hidden for hundreds if not thousands of years. There was recently a Phoenician wreckfrom 600BC discovered in a small reef called La Laja and la campana north east off of isla grosa island .Due to its age there was not much of the boat remaining as it was made mostly of wood,but there is plenty of pottery and spear heads found which lead to a more extensive excavation which was productive and 2 elephant tusks were recovered that dated back nearly2,500 years.

This makes diving much more fun and interesting in this area as you never know what you could find under the surface.

Some of the wrecks that are regularly dived are the(lsla Gomera) which sank in a violent storm in 1946 just out of the port of cabo de palos. It was carrying a cargo of oranges which lead to the ship being nicknamed the “Naranjito” which divers will be more familiar with. The wreck is 50 metres long and lies at a depth of 28m at the bow and 43m to the propeller.

The Turia and Ulla which are wooden minesweepers were sunk by the navy between Isla Grosa and Cabo de Palos for training purposes and lie in approximately 28 to 35m deep.

El vapour or “Sama” which is an old wreck at 50 meters deep and has not been explored much due to the depth and is broken down and flattened due to its age but has many large nudibranches (hypseldoris picta) living on it.

A off shore reef called Bajo de Fuerawithin the “Islas Hormigas marine park” has been a fatal shipping trap due to its distance from shore and being outside of the Islas Hormigas islands lighthouse and a huge reef system that peaks at just 3 metres below has a known 4 ship wrecks lying at the base of the reef. One was the famous Sirio passenger liner which hit the reef in 1908 and was carrying approximately 1000 immigrants from Italy when it struck the shallow reef and grounded for days until a storm broke the ship in two, the bow section slipping to the south side of the reef and the stern slipping into the north.

Other ships are the Minerva wreck that lies upside down. The Nord America which has an anti-aircraft gun on the stern section at 61 metres, also The Casenga, but all lie at 48 meters and deeper so just out of the reach of a recreational diver and more of a technical dive.

In Bajo de Testa, the closest dive site within the marine park has 4 known anchors from various ships and some of these date back over 1000 years old, I Myself discovered one small one while making a safety stop at 5 metres as I saw a rough outline of what looked like a small anchor on the reefs top. This site also holds many artefacts which would be hidden in the fields of Neptune grass which is very dense but is highly protected and forbidden to remove any artefacts.

Just on the north point of the Islas Hormigas marine park there is the wreck of the SS stanfield, this wreck is approximately 120m long and popular among technical divers due to its depth of 45m on top of the deck to 64 m at the propeller. The ship was torpedoed by a German U boat after it was captured and when it sank it hit the sea bed bow first splitting it open which makes it very interesting to dive and able to dive through the bow at 3 different levels.

There are also other various deep wrecks in the cabo de palos area which is out of the reach of normal recreational divers and some technical divers as they can be in depths in excess of 100 metres. Some of which are the , Maria Dolores, “Dorris”, Despina, ss Alavi, Atlantic city, kansega, ss Wilmore just to mention some and we know that there will be many more lying in darkness just waiting for to be discovered and dived.

Port of Cartagena The CBA wreck off Cartagena was a purposely sank by the navy almost 50 years ago and was a small fishing vessel and lies at a depth of 20m.

In this site the navy also sank a harrier jet fuselage which is good for taking photos and navigation skills.

Off the island of Escombreras at a depth of 40 metres lies amphora’s which were used in the roman and Carthaginian times to transport goods such and oil and wine. Due to it being submerged for centuries none of the boat remains, just the amphora’s which are highly protected by the authorities in Cartagena.

Co

. . . e l fi o r P y n mpa

Greetings cards – wide range of birthday and seasonal cards for all occasions Children’s section – toys and gifts for the little ones. Great ideas for sending back to the grand kids!!!

Nestled in the rural town of La Romana you will find Malvina Giftshop. Established by Caroline Clarke years ago, this quaint shop has something for everyone.

This gem of a shop is an Aladdin’s cave that you just wont want to leave. There is even a bar near by to park the husband whilst you browse uninterrupted.

Stationary and book section – from pens to paper and from Jeffery Archer to Enid Blyton, this shop has something for everyone Gifts – as a gift shop you can obviously buy all of your gifts from Malvina Giftshop. The choice is endless and includes: jewellery, CD and DVDs, concrete ornaments, men’s and ladies clothing. If you are spoilt for choice, why not get a gift voucher and let them choose their own present Internet access and phone top up – it even has your basics covered. Whether you want to top up your phone credit, or use their fast internet. You can even print off your boarding passes. There is also a photocopying and laminating service available Mailboxes – is the postman struggling to find you? Why not rent a mailbox and never lose important post again Passport application – Caroline can even help with checking and sending your passport application.

Malvina Giftshop, more than just a giftshop. See our advert on page 14

Malvina Gift Shop malvinabookshop@hotmail.com 638 919 637 965 696 656

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Music in Spain

3 t r a P

In this issue we are going to concentrate on a band that encompasses many of the musical styles that have been mentioned in earlier articles. They take on board many other styles and influences that it is actually great fun listening to their music and identifying their origins.

The band is usually 9 or 10 strong with the odd flamenco singer thrown in. The influences are many and the band inludes a trumpet and a vynil LP scratch player. So if you are an aficionado of dub, hip hop, flamenco, rumba, indian and North African music, well, they are all there.

Ojos de Brujo, (sorcerors or wizzards eyes) sadly have now split up but not before they blessed us with five albums which should form part of anyone’s CD collection in Spain or anywhere else for that matter. They were issued between 1999 and 2010 and are entitled, “Vengue”, “Bari”, “Techari”, “Aocaná” and “Corriente Vital 10 Años”. This latter album is a collection of collaborations with other famous artists such as Amoral, Estopa, Bebe and the fabulous Nitin Sawhney.

Although they have gone their separate ways (on friendly terms, I think) they all have their own projects and you should look up Marina Abad: singer, Dani Carbonell: singer (Macaco), Ramonn Jimenez: guitar and Javi Martin: bass guitar. Look up on youtube, Martin’s epic 5 string bass solo recorded in 2004. Magic!!

I had the pleasure of seeing Ojos de Brujo twice in concert, in Lorca and Madrid. I was blown away by the range of songs sung with such enthusiasm, enjoyment and sheer musicianship.

Since I first saw Ojos de Brujo on Jools Holland’s “Later” on BBC 2, I was smitten. Once again, youtube has so much material to look at including the whole “Techari” concert. forget the troubles in spain at the moment and immerse yourself in the music of this wonderful band.

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4 Unspoken Etiquette Rules When You Complete Your Purchase At The Notary You’ve chosen your dream home, paid your deposit and the time has arrived to complete your purchase. All you need now is to get to the Notary, pay your money and have the keys to your new abode. It’s an exciting day. Butterflies are in your stomach. Most times, buyers and sellers understand what it’s like when they go to a Notary’s office, but sometimes people forget where they are in all of the excitement, and think that because they themselves may be on holiday, the professionals are too.

1. Don’t turn up in beach wear. You wouldn’t visit with a Lawyer in your own country wearing skimpy shorts, bare chested and in flip flops, so please don’t do it ere either. You’re not expected to be wearing a shirt and tie, but smart casual will show them the respect they deserve, and I can assure you, the respect will be mutual.

2. Don’t be late. The Notary’s office can get very busy. They don’t just deal with drawing up Title Deeds! So by being prompt for your appointment will help you get seen to, as quickly as possible.

Buying property in Spain, is certainly a more “hands on” experience than that of the U.K., but as long as you are prepared, everything will go smoothly and you’ll be celebrating in your new home, in no time!

By being prepared, doesn’t just mean having your funds available, Lawyer in place and documents ready. It also means that you need to be aware of the place that you will be going to. The Notary. This is a position in Spain that is held in very high regard. This professional person does not work for the buyer or the seller, but is completely independent, and it is the Notary that will sign your Title Deeds. Attending a Notary’s office is, and should be entered with respect. But it is surprising how many people forget where they are, and think they are going for a picnic on the beach! There are 4 “unspoken rules” about attending a Notary’s office.

3. Patience! Like I said previously, the Notary’s office can get very busy, and although you did arrive on time, you can experience what seems like an exaggerated wait time. Don’t get stressed about it. That will achieve nothing, and it definitely won’t speed the process up. Take a breather, and go with the flow. The phrase “mañana” doesn’t exist for nothing!

4. Don’t expect the Notary to speak English.

These people are highly educated, and although they probably do speak English, they are not obliged to. Remember, you wouldn’t expect a Lawyer in England to speak Spanish!

By remembering these simple rules, you’ll have a completion day that will be the start of many happy memories of home ownership in Spain.

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