society living magazine

G TIN ne A R RPO gazi O C a IN SUE me M S I o PER M H U l B u if

ISSUE 18 NOVEMBER 2010

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO LIFE ON THE COAST

SOCIETY Living ut a e B

STYLE TRANSITION from AUTUMN to WINTER

MARBELLA’S

new entrepreneurs

Giving your body SOME TLC

Potent motoring REFINEMENT FOR high-tech high-flyers

Anastacia LITTLE

lady with a

BIG HEART

LUXURIOUS LAYERS from the Coast’s TOP BOUTIQUES

LIFESTYLE GLAMOUR PERSONALITIES STYLE LEISURE GASTRONOMY

CONTENTS

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52 14

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66

12 glamour digest 08

Chic style and stunning fashion trends

tech world 12

Cutting edge innovation ... state-of-the-art gadgets

Contents

movie lines 14

celebrity spotlight 18

music notes 16

fashion flair 24

Behind the scenes in the world of films and DVDs

Rock snippets from around the globe

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No 18 – November 2010

Anastacia: little lady with a big voice

Hot styles for the cooler months

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latest trends 36

ask the doctor 42

health and fitness 38

clinic and boutique 44

Tips, trends and new sensations in make-up and skincare

Developing muscle strength‌ with Matt Roberts

Blood group diet: your questions answered

Health, fitness and beauty news from along the Coast

CONTENTS

18 36

100

08 society 47

Costa glamour... mixing business with pleasure

kristina szekely’s diary 60 business restaurant guide profile fine dining 94 90 106

snapshots 111

Queen of Marbella social scene

Aromatic delights at a Marbella favourite

table talk 92

Restaurant news and culinary tidbits

Highly recommended for gastronomic pleasure

on the road 100

Audi A8L W12: power and refinement

Your view... special moments and occasions

The new Marbella‌ and entrepreneur

noticeboard 109

in the stars 113

Astrologist Russell Grant looks into the future

Business and other news from around Spain w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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EDITORIAL LINES

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24 Inspirational lady with a heart of gold

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ur special Breast Cancer Awareness issue last month was so well-received we decided to prolong this important theme and feature Anastacia on our November cover.

The Chicago-born singer, songwriter, fashion designer and philanthropist was diagnosed with cancer at 34, having had a routine mammogram before an operation that was unrelated to the disease. As she notes in an exclusive interview for Society Living, “Many countries don’t advise a mammogram till we are 40; my hope is this will change in time.”

That was over six years ago and since then she has set up her own charity, the Anastacia Fund, and become an inspirational figure in international campaigns to promote early detection and research for younger women.

Last month might have represented the main global focus of this cause, but for Anastacia and other well-known campaigners the work continues throughout the year. “I hope that my diagnosis… helps others facing this disease to not feel ashamed. Breasts are just as beautiful after cancer!”

Back on the Costa del Sol, the focus for many people – especially those involved in business – is to shake off the shackles of recession and look forward with growing, albeit cautious, optimism to a less fraught future. These have been troubling times but there is one thing that never changes: the Costa del Sol’s pre-eminent status as a prime expatriate and tourist destination.

It is a sad truth that some businesses have been forced to close over the past two years, but it is also a matter of great comfort, even pride, that many others are opening – in spite of the economic climate.

In recognition of that admirable commitment to and confidence in the Coast’s future, and specifically Marbella, this issue we began a regular new series featuring entrepreneurs who are leading the way in this new era.

We all know the property market has been the main casualty of the crisis, and that makes us even more aware of the importance of our own homes: as a haven away from the madding crowds; as a cosy, comfortable and comely environment to enjoy the famed Mediterranean lifestyle

Publisher Andy Clark andy@societylivingmagazine.com Advertising Manager Emma Landberg emma@societylivingmagazine.com Tel. 667 619 488 Advertising Representative Annalisa Turner-Sterling annalisa@societylivingmagazine.com Tel. 655 466 798 Accounts Manager Suzanne Kellet accounts@societylivingmagazine.com Tel. 952 814 851

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with our families and friends; and, if necessary, as a reliable investment that one day, when the difficult times have passed, will provide a solid nest-egg.

With that in mind, we are pleased to include the latest Beautiful Home supplement in this issue, with advice on how to give your home a makeover – suiting all budgets! – and, if you are preparing it for sale or rent, tips on how to make your property more desirable.

We hope you enjoy this latest “double-issue” and look forward to sharing together a much more positive countdown to the end of the year.

Editorial editorial@societylivingmagazine.com Associate Editor Nicola McGeorge Features Editor Laura-Jane Bruce features@societylivingmagazine.com Contributing Editor Peter Leonard Contributors Russell Grant, Ian Kuah, Chloe Madison, Matt Roberts, Kristina Szekely Photographers Gary Edwards, Ruth Jones, Steve Sparrow, Gary Tapp, David Toms

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Society Living is published monthly by: Bespoke Media S.L. CIF: B92998483 www.societylivingmagazine.com Depósito Legal: MU-1588-2009 Production Opus 1 Design design@societylivingmagazine.com Printer P&R Grafis Tel. 952 667 788 – www.prgrafis.es The views and opinions expressed by contributors to Society Living may not represent the views and opinions of the publishers.

Bespoke Media takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements or advertorials in this magazine.

No part of Society Living may be reproduced or copied in any way without the prior written consent of Bespoke Media.

GLAMOUR DIGEST

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GLAMOUR DIGEST

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GLAMOUR DIGEST

A touch of daring A coat is a crucial bit of kit in creating the right look, whatever else you’re wearing.

So it is well worth investing in a few different styles to see you through the season. Zara never fail to produce fashionable yet affordable clothes every season, and this red coat and cape are not going to disappoint.

Meanwhile, our very own Nina B boutique is currently stocking this fabulous suede trench coat, which can act as the staple of your outfit

and guarantee you’re on trend.

Nina B: Tel. 952 907 020

A darker side of white After a bright summer, The White Briefs continue their journey towards a darker side – but still the same great shape and good quality.

The White Briefs is an essence-underwear brand with a generous and honest ideal – “encouraging the introspective and breathing fresh air into your imagination”. The shapes are classic with an eye on subtle adjustments and detailing. They are carefully made piece by piece, with wellsteamed cotton bags wrapping up the products in recycled, sophisticated, minimalist packaging.

All components play an important roll to accomplish an extraordinary experience, from

the specific nature-friendly corozo buttons to elastics, bindings, treads and refined fabrics.

As part of their social and environmental responsibility, The White Briefs deliver a high quality product in all aspects. Organic farming is a production method that not only respects human health and the environment but is also a model of sustainable development that improves the quality local communities’ resources, helping them face global competition.

The new collection is available in black in selected stores worldwide.

The White Briefs: Tel. 663 850 958

Cool and practical It’s officially that season of the year again: time to pull on the boots! Elle Morgan at Laguna Village have stock a “booty-licious” selection of boots that will guarantee to liven up any outfit. The Fit Flop Uggs are warming but breathable, help keep you in shape while you’re out and about, and look effortlessly cool. If you are looking for something a bit different this winter, these fun wedge wellingtons are practical if caught out in a rainstorm, and can sass up a jumper dress in an instant.

Elle Morgan Boutique: Tel. 952 802 481

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Mukluk Short (chestnut boots) - €169 Gogh Suede (chocolate boots) - €89 Wedge Wellies (black and pink wellies) - €59.95

TECH WORLD

Recording every special moment Are you the kind of person who wants to capture every exciting moment? The new Looxcie camcorder attaches to your ear, allowing you record your extreme skateboarding trick or your daughter’s birthday. You can also preview on your smart phone, making sure you have the right shot. looxcie.com

CUTTING-EDGE INNOVATION STATE-OF-THE ART GADGETS, HIGH-TECH UPDATES AND CONSUMER ELECTRONICS NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE Truly mobile!

TV favourites Do you travel a lot and dislike international TV – and just crave watching English TV? Well, now you can link up your TV with the new HD Slingbox and watch the TV programmes you miss… anywhere in the world. You can even stream it to your iPhone! slingbox.com

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Do you get fed up of carrying your phone around the house or at work with you? Well, Sony has come up with “Live View”, a little gadget that feeds updates and messages to the 1.3-inch (3.3centimetre) touch screen so you don’t have to have your phone on you all the time. You can even wear it as a watch while running to check your heartbeat, distance and music selection. sony.com

TECH WORLD

Slim and sexy The new Macbook Air has now been released! Extended battery life, multitouch trackpad, and a new HD display… mac.com

Pump the volume!

Pioneer has just released limited edition versions of the HDJ-1000 in gold and stealth black. With the comfort down to a tee and quality sound, they are the best for long DJ sets and partying. pioneer.co.uk

Customising your cam

Inner creativity

If you are bored with your camera skin, with the new Pentax you can change them as much as you like. You can choose from a range of pre-created decals or design your neat skin. pentaximaging.com

Want to see the inner workings of your phone? This flash new gadget by IIDA puts the creative edge on mobile phones. Available in a range of colours, it’s a great new accessory. iida.jp COMPILED BY DAN OPUS 1 – IF YOU HAVE A NEW GADGET ON THE MARKET AND WOULD LIKE IT CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION IN THIS SECTION. SEND INFORMATION (MAX. 50 WORDS) AND A HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGE TO: design@societylivingmagazine.com

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CULTURAL CORNER

Movie of the Month Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 This is the first film of a two-part finale for Harry Potter. Harry, Ron and Hermione must start the trek that Dumbledore sent them on to find and destroy all of the lost Horcruxes. But of course it won’t be easy: Harry has no way of knowing what the Horcruxes look like or where they are. Meanwhile, the Death Eaters have taken over the Ministry of Magic and there is a 10,000-galleon reward for anyone who turns in Harry to the Death Eaters – to allow Voldemort to kill him. While all this is happening, Harry keeps having glimpses into the mind of Voldemort, who is on a quest to find a wand he has never heard of. Harry must destroy the Horcruxes, find the mysterious wand before Voldemort does and stay alive. Part 2 is scheduled to premiere in July 2011.

Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson

Movie

Lines LAURA-JANE BRUCE LOOKS AT THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF MOVIES… WHAT’S ON THE BIG SCREEN THIS MONTH, WHAT’S BEING FILMED AT THE MOMENT AND WHAT’S IN THE PIPELINE

The American George Clooney is back in The American, a mysterious tale of an assassin who wants his next assignment to be his last. He moves to Italy but is followed by hunters who have been trying to kill him.

Posing as a photographer, he has to try to outsmart them. Not one of George’s best films, but a good one nonetheless.

George Clooney, Violante Placido, Thekla Reuten, Paolo Bonacelli

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Five of the best for November

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Due Date Ever since The Hangover, fans all over the world have fallen in love with notorious funny man Zach Galifianakis. Well, Zach and his trademark sarcastic sense of humour have teamed up with Robert Downey Jr in a new film, Due Date. Troubled by a lack of relationship with his father, Peter is determined to make it to the birth of his child. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds, with pal Ethan along for the ride. Expect adventure and hilarity.

Robert Downey Jr, Zach Galifianakis, Juliette Lewis, Jamie Foxx

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Machete Machete is asked by a local businessman to kill the senator in exchange for a large sum of money, but realises he has been set up when he is shot himself and left for dead. Machete now wants revenge and, along with his sexy accomplice, plots revenge on the businessman. With Michelle Rodriguez at your side and Jessica Alba tracking you, and having Lindsay Lohan in captivity, Danny Trejo must have hated every minute of filming.

Danny Trejo, Michelle Rodriguez, Jessica Alba, Lindsey Lohan

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You Again Marni is returning home for her brother’s wedding. However, his fiancéée Joanna turns out to be an enemy from high school who made her life a living hell.

Marni wants to expose her true colours and protect her brother from making the biggest mistake of his life. Worse still, Marni’s mother Gail is reunited with Joanna’s Aunt Romona, who was her arch nemesis when she was in high school. The claws are about to come out in this drama-filled romantic comedy.

Kristin Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sigourney Weaver, Odette Yustman

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Skyline Stephen Hawkins warned that we shouldn’t try to contact outer space, but NASA didn’t listen. Now, an extraterrestrial force threatens to destroy the entire population of earth, as strange lights beam down from the sky and draw people to them like moths to a flame. This sci-fi blockbuster warns, “Don’t look up.” A relatively unknown cast stars in this mix between Cloverfield and War of the Worlds.

Eric Balfour, Scottie Thompson, Donald Faison

CULTURAL CORNER Quick Clips Daniel Radcliff has been talking about the pros of Harry Potter ending. He claims he will now be able to branch out into different genres.

When actors are cast in films for a lengthy period of time, it is normally impossible for audiences to adjust to the change. However, Radcliff is going to try, so watch this space.

Speaking of actors being unable to move on from their typecast, since O.C ended in 2007, there has been a distinct absence of actors from the hit television show. Well, Rachel Bilson has now been cast in BFF and Baby, a film about a women who isn’t ready for motherhood, and her best friend who tries to teach her that being a mother has its rewards.

She did well in her cameo for How I Met Your Mother, so good luck to her.

Vince Vaughn and Kevin James headline an all-star comedy from director Ron Howard and producer Brian Grazer about a man who finds out that what you don’t say to a friend is just as important as what you do. Jennifer Connelly, Winona Ryder, Channing Tatum and Queen Latifah join them in The Dilemma, a story of how far you can bend a brotherly bond before it snaps. This is going to be a film to watch out for in early 2011.

Anthony Hopkins and Rachel Weiss are currently filming for a film called 360, which consists of a series of interlocking stories about sexual encounters and infidelity. The gimmick is that one person in the romantic pair at the centre of each story will also be at the centre of the next story with a different person, until it all becomes a full circle.

Thankfully, 73-year-old Hopkins and Weiss (40) don’t have any sexual scenes together. The film is set for release in 2013.

Lindsay Lohan just can’t seem to keep her nose clean. The troubled actress, who was recently released from jail and rehab, has admitted to failing a mandatory drug test that could lead her back to jail. She was set to portray Linda Lovelace in the biopic Inferno, but if she’s sent to jail it could lead the filmmakers to recasting the role for the film, which has already been delayed once due to her first 30-day stint behind bars. If only today’s biggest stars could just behave.

Rihanna has moved from singing to movies, as she is starring alongside Liam Neeson in the upcoming film Battleship, based on the childhood favourite game of the same name.

Directed by Peter Berg (Hancock), this is set to be a huge film in 2012. Trust me.

Meryl Streep and Julia Roberts are considering teaming up to play mother and daughter in a film version of Pulitzer prizewinning play August: Osage County. The story centres on a family that begins to unravel after the death of the patriarch.

Streep will play the drug-addict mother of the family, while Roberts would play her daughter, whose teacher husband has slept with one of his students.

Men In Black 3 is currently in production.

Both Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones are going to reprise their roles as the crimefighting duo. The film will be shown in 3D and will be released some time in 2012, so expect, action, adventure and gruesome aliens.

Did you enjoy Mamma Mia? If so, you’ll be pleased to know there is another similar film in the pipeline featuring songs from the Beach Boys. The film is currently untitled and no further details have been announced regarding

Latest DVD releases

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Toy Story 3 Andy has grown up and gone to college, and the toys mistakenly get delivered to a day-care centre instead of the attic. It’s now up to Woody to convince the others that it was a mistake and to return home to Andy. If you didn’t see this in the cinema, one tip: make sure you have some tissues nearby before watching.

Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack

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The A Team A bit of a flop at the cinema, but still a good film nonetheless. Sent to prison for a crime they didn’t commit, the A Team escape and set out to clear their name. This film includes action and adventure and, for those of you who watched the TV series, it will bring back nostalgic memories.

Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Jessica Biel

3 the premise or expected release date, but if it’s anything like Mamma Mia it’s going to be a great sing-along success.

Following on from September’s Quick Clips revelation about the Spice Girls musical, it has been confirmed that Jennifer Saunders from Absolutely Fabulous fame will be writing it.

She is said to be very excited to be working on a musical that encompasses the music and energy of the biggest girl band to date.

Robert Pattinson is reportedly going to be keeping an eye on rumoured girlfriend Kristen Stewart while she is filming sex scenes in her new movie On The Road. The star wants to visit the set while the scenes are being filmed to ensure they are strictly professional.

Speaking of Pattinson, he was almost crushed by an elephant on set last month. During the filming of Water For Elephants, the elephant he was working with mixed up her signals and, instead of swinging her trunk, sat down, prompting the Twilight star to slide off her back.

She then lifted her front legs and rolled over.

Thankfully Pattinson was not harmed.

Another injury story… an extra from the new Transformers movie was hospitalised after a stunt went wrong. According to her family, she has undergone brain surgery after a tow cable pulling the car she was manoeuvering snapped and smashed through her windscreen.

April 2011 sees the return of Scream 4. Ten years have passed, and Sidney Prescott is visited by… guess who. That’s right, the Ghostface Killer. Not much has changed in terms of the plot since Scream 3, but I’d be surprised if it wasn’t released in 3D, so that’ll be something different at least.

Predators A group of killers, some professionally trained and some not, are plunged into the jungle of a strange world where they are hunted by predators.

Their talent and ability is tested in this kill or be killed movie.

Adrien Brody, Laurence Fishburne, Topher Grace

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Scott Pilgrim vs. The World Scott Pilgrim falls in love with a fellow musician, but before dating her he must defeat her seven evil exboyfriends, who will do anything to keep him from getting to her. A light-hearted, fun film with plenty of comedic moments along the way.

Michael Cera, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Kieran Culkin

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Jonah Hex Expect lots of explosions and shootings in this high-action thriller. Jonah Hex, wanted in his own right, makes a deal with the US military to stop a terrorist in exchange for his freedom.

Josh Brolin, John Malkovich, Megan Fox

Filming has just begun for the fourth and final installment of Mission Impossible. Tom Cruise returns with Lost director JJ Abrams, who has brought along Lost hunk Josh Holloway to star with Cruise. This film will bring action, explosions and mega special effects in 2011.

Sad news from Tinseltown: legendary actor of the 1950s and 1960s Tony Curtis has passed away at the age of 85. Curtis died peacefully in his Henderson (Nevada) home last month, suffering from cardiac arrest in his sleep. w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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CULTURAL CORNER

Single Tracks Fans of MICHAEL JACKSON will be pleased to hear that another DVD of his work is being released. Vision will include a collection of his videos, including one previously unseen video. Let’s hope it’s a good one.

ROBBIE WILLIAMS and GARY BARLOW performed together at the Heroes Concert at Twickenham Stadium. The concert, which was in aid of the charity Help for Heroes, saw the pair perform Shame together for the first time on a bill that also featured X Factor winner ALEXANDRA BURKE, PLAN B and THE SATURDAYS. VMA news now, and LADY GAGA appeared to be wearing a dress made from meat. The Bad Romance star, who scooped seven trophies, took to the stage dressed in an outfit that was constructed from cuts of meat and included a meat hat, boots and purse. When she was presented with Video Of The Year by CHER, the singer joked, “I never thought I'd be asking Cher to hold my meat purse.”

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Music notes LAURA-JANE BRUCE BRINGS US UP TO DATE WITH LATEST CD RELEASES, CONCERTS AND ROCK SNIPPETS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

RUSSELL BRAND was arrested in LA after attacking a member of the paparazzi who was trying to take a picture up his fiancée’s skirt. A couple of weeks later and KATY PERRY was seen at the VMAs with actual images of Brand on her fingernails. Talk about supporting the ones you love.

It seems that last year’s X Factor winner JOE MCELLDERRY has finally come out. We commend him for being so brave in the harsh world of the music business, where everyone seems to be out to get you, but it’s awfully coincidental that he decided to come out now, just when his new single Ambitions and new album Wide Awake are being released

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throughout November. Funny that.

Remember the MTV Video Music Awards last year and KANYE WEST’s public attack on TAYLOR SWIFT for winning Best Female Video ahead of BEYONCE? Well, he’s now trying to apologise to her one year on. Through a series of Twitter posts, West revealed he had written an apology song for her and wants her to hear it.

Better late than never, I suppose.

JANET JACKSON is rumoured to be to considering signing to an independent label after she terminated her contract with Island Records in 2008. Jackson wants to have more control over the music she releases. A shame she didn’t take that approach to her infamous

“wardrobe malfunction” at the Super Bowl six years ago.

Thought you’d heard the last of X Factor rejects SAME DIFFERENCE? Well you were wrong.

They have teamed up with Swedish dance group ALCAZAR to create Karma Karma, promised to be one of the most fun tracks fans will ever hear. That’s quite a strong statement, but we’ll just have to wait and see.

Fans of CHERYL COLE will be pleased to hear that a 50-second preview of her new single has been leaked on the web. The track Promise This can be found on YouTube and is thought to have been released to coincide with the X Factor live shows.

Okay, so you know when Twitter is taking over your life when you need to take a break from it to record your new album. Rapper 50 CENT claimed that he was going to take respite from the social networking site to record songs for The Return Of The Heartless Monster, set to be released before the end of this year.

R&B heavyweight LAURYN HILL is set to bring out a new album, 12 years after her debut album was

Five new CD releases

one Take That – Progress As the title aptly puts it, Take That have finally put their differences behind them and have joined together for one long-awaited album. They have all grown-up and now have a more mature sound, but one that will appeal to old fans and new. The album will be followed by a tour, but make the most of it ladies (and gents, if you’re brave enough to admit it): this is going to be the only album from our favourite quintet.

two JLS – Outta This World JLS have decided to change the sound of this album to lean towards a more acoustic feel, but that doesn’t mean they are turning their backs on the sound that we all love. The first single, The Club is Alive, rocketed straight to number one two months ago; and next single, Love You More, has been confirmed as the official Children In Need single. What more could you ask for? Handsome and charitable.

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released. Following a string of live performances earlier this year, Hill was said to be looking forward to getting back in the studio and communicating to her fans, new and old, through her lyrics.

Christmas must be just around the corner: MARIAH CAREY is already divulging information about her yuletide album. Merry Christmas II You will be the pop star’s second holiday album and is set to include original material along with classic Christmas covers.

It’s official: it is acceptable to be a fan of JUSTIN BEIBER. The pint-sized pop star has an evergrowing celebrity fan base, with SNOOP DOGG recently added.

Of the singer, Dogg claimed that we may even see a collaboration between the two.

Watch this space.

Spain music news now… and Scottish indie-rock band Franz Ferdinand will be performing here throughout November. They will be in Barcelona on the 4th, San Sebastian on the 6th and Málaga on the 8th. If you’re a secret indie-rocker at heart, these guys are the band to see.

Rihanna – Loud Loud is the Barbados singer’s fifth studio album, and is miles away from the reggae-inspired sounds of her first album. This album is, according to the singer herself, sassy, fun, flirty, energetic and more tailored to her. It features collaborations with music industry heavyweights such as David Guetta, Timbaland and our very own Taio Cruz. Only Girl (In The World) has been released in the US and peaked at number three on the billboard hot 100, so we’re looking forward to it being released over here.

four Jamiroquia – Rock Dust Light Star British band Jamiroquia are back with their seventh studio album, after a break of five years. The band have been busy recording the album in two locations: one in Jay Kay’s home studio, and the other in Thailand.

Poor them. Expect an eclectic mix of funk, pop and rock.

five Neil Diamond – Dreams Five decades into his career, Neil Diamond has finally made the album of his dreams. Dreams is a new 14-song collection of the legendary singersongwriter's interpretations of his favourite songs of other composers from the rock era. It’s been two years since he released an album, and this has been eagerly anticipated by all his die-hard fans.

CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT

ANASTACIA The little lady with the big voice In this exclusive interview for Society Living, Anastacia talks to Nicola McGeorge about her recovery from cancer and Crohn's disease, setting up the Anastacia Fund and what it was like to perform with the world’s most famous divas.

How did you become involved with music?

I was going to the New York nightclubs in the late ‘80s, I loved to dance... and I eventually got asked to audition for a MTV show called Club MTV. This led to me being asked to be in a few music videos, followed by a producer asking if I could sing. However, my mom is a musical theatre-trained singer so I never thought my very different sounding voice would be appealing.

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CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT

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CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT What are your latest recording release plans?

I am currently not on a label. In one way, it is scary and in other ways I am wide open to work and record with anyone. I am happy to simply be touring and singing live to wonderful audiences at the moment.

“I am deeply grateful for the acceptance and career that I have in Europe”

Who would you like to work with?

Oh man, so many people! Umm, Justin Timberlake, Eminem, Take That, Mary J Blige, Pink, Beyonce – to name a few.

What do you do in your free time?

Because my work takes me away from home, friends and family for long periods, I love hanging out at home and cooking for friends.

You are a superstar overseas, but not as big in the US. Why is this – are they mad?

LOL! I have no idea why… I am deeply grateful for the acceptance and career that I have in Europe.

The highlight of you career?

Singing with Elton John at Madison Square Gardens.

You got your start when you performed in an MTV talent show. How do you feel about young new artists performing in shows like the X Factor? Do you have any advice for them?

I really can't imagine what it must be like to be swept up in the quick rise of stardom like today's competition participators find themselves in. I was almost 30 and had been singing and trying to land a "deal" for almost a decade. Perhaps the most important part of my own story I can offer is that I did not win The Cut. I was a runner-up; the stars can align for more than just the winner.

What songs are rocking your iPod right now?

I have such a wide range of music and it's always on shuffle, from Celine Dion to Jay Z to Pavarotti.

Did you enjoy working on Don’t Stop Believing?

I cared for it! It was so much fun. My friends and I have used the phrase, "I care for it", for years... we use it for everything, good or bad. I see something I like and say, "I care for it"; or don't like something I tasted and I'll say, "I don't care for it". The fact that the show picked up on this was hilarious and especially hearing people imitate how I say this phrase... funny, funny!

You performed in VH1's Divas Live. We are dying to know who was the biggest diva?

That was a huge honour for me. I sang with Celine Dion, which still feels like a dream. I didn't have any diva experiences in any negative way at all. I was in awe of the divalisciousness of these woman: Cher, Mary J Blige, Celine, Shakira... OMG!!!

You have a huge gay fan base… why do you think you are so popular with them?

What a wonderful thing. I adore the gay community. I think that may be my only fan base in the US. I'm not sure why, but boy oh boy am I honoured by the support.

You dedicated your album to Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes… what did she mean to you?

It was so sad when I heard about her death.

TLC were such a mega force and yet sadly signed to a deal that left them the last people to see the money their success made. She seemed like a strong woman and was doing her best to branch out in a new untapped area of the competition show idea, and her willingness to risk it as a host gave me my career. I will always be grateful to her and she holds a place of inspiration when I face my own new directions in my career.

“I am happy to say that I am a survivor: cancer-free for over six years”

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Tell us about the Here Come The Girls tour…

Well, I was lucky that Lulu, who was the mastermind behind this idea, thought I might be a good prospect. A very unique and risky project because it was kind of a hybrid concert idea: three woman from different decades coming together to sing a mixture of songs from the ‘50s till the present day, including a few of their own.

Most songs are shared vocally by all three women so the audience got to enjoy the collaboration more than the solo nature of three different performers. I loved the concept and I did not hesitate when Lulu and Chaka Khan were slated to be part of this. We had a blast and I am thrilled that we have a chance to do another tour, and with a new addition – Heather Small replacing Chaka.

In October we dedicated the issue to breast cancer. This is something that has affected you personally…

I am happy to say that I am a survivor: cancer-free for over six years. I felt so lucky to have this diagnosis in the early stages. I didn't have more than a day before news broke in the press, so it kind of forced me to get educated and understand what I was facing very quickly and then take quick action to treat and fight it. I hope that my diagnosis, along with a few other wellknown women, helps others facing this disease to not feel ashamed. Breasts are just as beautiful after cancer!

Your charity work is important to you and you have created the Anastacia Fund…

Estee Lauder have helped give me an umbrella fund which focuses on early detection and research in younger woman. I was 34 and many countries don't advise a mammogram till we are 40; my hope is this will change in time. I am also a Crohn's survivor. I was diagnosed at 14 and had 14 inches (35 centimetres) of my small intestines removed at that time. I worked with the UK Crohn's & Colitis organisation on the tour book on the last tour.

Which song changed your life and why?

I really don't have one song. Technically, my song I'm Outta Love changed my life the most.

Have you even been to Spain?

I've been to Spain many, many times – Barcelona and Madrid mostly.

You have a love of fashion… describe your style…

My style is a mix of hard and soft. I'll wear jeans and leather jacket, and combine that with a frilly camisole and a silk scarf and sexy feminine pumps. I love Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson and Vivienne Westwood, and definitely love some of my favourite High Street shops: Warehouse, Top Shop, All Saints...

CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT

“Breasts are just as beautiful after cancer!”

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CELEBRITY SPOTLIGHT

How do you keep in shape?

I've been very lucky; I have good genetics and a pretty fast metabolism. But now that I am 42 I have found that my body needs to exercise and I eat more carefully. I do Hot Yoga and circuit training and cardio.

What are your favourite make-up products – any tips?

L'Oreal make an incredible product called Double Wear: foundation, eye shadow, eye pencils. All are made to stay on even in the rain, and they are incredible... the make-up does not budge!

What inspires you?

My fans... their unconditional support and many of their personal life challenges that they have shared with me.

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FASHION FLAIR

Hot style for the cool months With the nights drawing in ever closer, Society Living shows you how you can fend off the chill without foregoing on fashion.

Dress – Elle Morgan €139 Cardigan – Elle Morgan €139 Belt – Elle Morgan €45 Jewellery – Stephen Webster Boots – Model’s own 24

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FASHION FLAIR

Photographer: Steve Sparrow steve@sparrowphotography.com Make-up by Laura Dee Shelley lauradeeshelley.com Model: Liza M at Target Models targetmodels.com Styling: Emma Maria Landberg Editorial Co-ordination: Laura-Jane Bruce w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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FASHION FLAIR

Top – White Briefs €60 Trousers – White Briefs €60 Boots – Elle Morgan €169 Bag – Elle Morgan €249 Scarf (tied around bag) - Elle Morgan €59.95

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FASHION FLAIR Top – Body Up €37 Shorts – Body Up €35 Scarf – Nina B €99 Wellingtons – Elle Morgan €59.95

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FASHION FLAIR

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FASHION FLAIR

Coat – Nina B €525 Boots – Nina B €349 Jewellery – Stephen Webster w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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FASHION FLAIR

Dress – Elle Morgan €65 Cardigan – Elle Morgan €65 Wellingtons – Elle Morgan €59.95 Jewellery – Stephen Webster 30

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FASHION FLAIR

Dress – Nina B €369 Handbag – Nina B €245 Jewellery – Stephen Webster

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FASHION FLAIR

Nina B C/ Las Malvas.

Nueva Andalucia Tel. 952 907 020 Elle Morgan Laguna Village Tel. 952 803 481 Fashion Villa Elviria Tel. 952 850 501 The White Briefs Tel. 663 850 958 Body Up Puerto Banus Tel. 610 604 542 Stephen Webster Puerto Banus Tel. 952 816 976 All jewellery - price on application

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Top – Fashion Villa €179 Trousers – Fashion Villa €299 Gilet with fur hood – Fashion Villa €299 Belt – Fashion Villa €189 Jewellery – Stephen Webster

Special Winter-Highlights and Must-Haves!

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LATEST TRENDS

health&beauty COMPILED BY NICOLA McGEORGE

LOVE

Silky look and feel Healthy shining hair is achieved not only by using good hair products but also by brushing often with an excellent brush. With 138 years of experience, Acca Kappa have designed the perfect range of brushes and combs specifically created to eliminate different everyday problems. This Styling Control Brush is from their Professional Range, and is made with Kotibe Wood and Pure Boar Bristles, which add volume and sheen to hair. The bristles contain natural anti-static properties and the soft foam rubber handle provides better balance, comfort and handling. shopaccakappa.com

AMcQ Confection photo by Philippe Ardouin

thy SKIN

As we head into the winter months, we need to give our skin some tender loving care. For many people, winter brings more than just a rosy glow to the cheeks. It also brings uncomfortable dryness to the skin on the face, hands and feet. So why not invest in some of these products as an early Christmas present to yourself, and your body.

Soothing the body

Inspiring beauty Dove Spa’s philosophy is simple – they want to make women feel more beautiful every day by inspiring us to take greater care of ourselves. This tummy cream does exactly that. Not only does it moisturise dry skin but it also streamlines your abdominal area, meaning that you can treat yourself to one more mince pie this Christmas!

Firm Believer uses a high-performing formula and contains a sublime mixture of llex Leaf extracts and Arabica Coffee seed that helps reduce the contour volume around your waist. So, this winter, look after your waistline and your skin. dovespa.co.uk

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Luxury and organic? These are two words you seldom associate together in the beauty world – until now. The Davina Peace beauty range is the first to be able to compete with luxury, nonorganic beauty products. Her range spans across the spectrum of body-caring creams to moodenhancing candles for the home. This Body Cream is rich with a clinically proven Cork Oak active which creates an instant smoothing and toning effect enhanced by the properties of Organic Indonesian Kendi Oil, a natural source of skin-plumping Omega 3 and cell rejuvenating natural Vitamin E. This indulgent body cream immediately moisturises whilst giving the skin a smoother and tauter appearance. The “organic fairly traded” Shea and Cocoa Butters have excellent skin-soothing properties, working deep down to replenish moisture and rebalance the deeper layers of the epidermis. Long-term use will improve the overall tone and texture of skin. davinapeace.com

LATEST TRENDS TOP NEW RANGES, TREATMENTS AND NEWS FROM THE WORLD OF MAKE-UP, SKIN CARE AND FRAGRANCE

Katy Perry at VMAs with Custom Russell Brand Minx applied by Kimmie Kyees – photo

by Adam Orchon Sitting tight It seems they have thought of everything. Soap and Glory’s Sit Tight Cream allows you to reduce the appearance of fatty tissue build-up. Every morning, knead a generous layer of Sit Tight onto your bottom and thighs, and then do as it says on the tub: sit tight. The heat and friction generated by the user during the act of sitting acts as a release mechanism to trigger increased movement of the product to the lower body areas. The exclusive sit-released firming system is loaded with caffeine (at a level of between 27 and 33 per cent) and is known for its extended lipolytic, firming and draining actions. However, do be aware that you may feel a slight heating sensation for several minutes; and ensure you wait at least 30 to 60 seconds before putting clothing over the top. soapandglory.com

Celebrity style Minx is not only a new company for nail design: it is also a revolutionary brand that has taken the fashion world by storm. This glamorous brand allows women to extend fashion right to their fingertips. Sparkly metallics for Christmas, personalised graphics and photo-quality designs currently unavailable in the market make up the Minx nail line. Made of flexible film, Minx finally gives women completely customised nails that can feature the exact pattern and colours of their newest dress, their favourite photo or that season’s hottest designs. Katy Perry was seen at the VMAs with Russell Brand on her fingertips, showing her support for her fiancée, and Minx founder Dawn Lynch-Goodwin personally worked backstage with leading UK manicurist Marian Newman to provide customised Minx nails to the models at Alexander McQueen’s runway show at Paris Fashion Week last month. Luckily for us, our very own Reflections stock the collection.

Reflections Hair Nails / Skincare: Tel. 902 325 324; reflectionsmarbella.com

Transforming the skin Environ's vision has always been to make the best products in the world, through a philosophy of well-researched, scientific skin care. As a brand, they say they value proven results that truly transform the skin on a long-term basis, and aim to offer consumers the most effective skin care range that science permits. A consultation is always needed before any products are purchased as some do involve needling procedures, but this Focus Frown Serum, Hydrating Serum and Cosmetic Focus-CIT are just what your skin needs this winter: nourishment.

Skin Care & Beauty Clinic: Tel. 952 814 671; beautyclinic.es

Sweet opulence If you not fortunate enough to be able to afford everything designer-style, indulge in a piece of luxury with this candle. The best part is that you won’t have to lie when someone asks if you own a piece of Manolo. Luxury shoe designer Manolo Blahnik has teamed up with candle designer Miller Harris to create a special collection of candles. This rose-scented candle will make your house smell sweeter, and will bring opulence to your living room. liberty.co.uk

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Developing muscle strength through training One of the world's leading personal trainers, Matt Roberts is responsible for creating some of the most famous physiques‌ including Tom Ford, Naomi Campbell, John Galliano and Amanda Holden.

Muscle development and conditioning ability can both be enhanced by having a higher base level of strength.

The fundamental lifts for developing strength in our training are the squat, dead-lift, bench press and pull-up – or variations of these exercises.

Together they work the major planes of movement where force production is necessary.

If short on time, these exercises are the most effective choice when your main goal is maximum strength or to grow muscle.

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To build strength you either have to move quickly or lift the heaviest weight possible to recruit the maximum muscle mass in the concentric (muscle shortening) part of the movement. The technical nature of these big lifts means that acceleration or load is compromised for all but the elite, so focus on either speed or load.

HEALTH & FITNESS

In the lowering (eccentric) phase of a movement, the squat, dead-lift, bench press and pull-up can be controlled. You can slow the tempo of the movement on lowering and therefore keep the muscle under tension for longer.

Keeping the muscle under tension will cause more muscle damage and therefore, if your nutrition is correct, stimulate muscle repair and growth.

Certain supplementary exercises can work well to assist the major lifts. A good dose of single leg-work such as lunges and step-ups are useful for challenging the muscles in a more dynamic environment.

Mastering your body weight with press-up variations, dumbbell press variations and row-based cable movements, as well as challenging drills such as inverted rows on the TRX band or gymnastic rings, helps to develop structural strength around the shoulder.

Isolation work can follow: for example, bicep curls, tricep extensions and lateral raises to build definition in small muscles groups.

Abdominal training is also vital in your training.

Planks and side planks are a good start to build torso strength. In time these can be progressed to more dynamic plank variations, ab roller exercises or Swiss ball roll-outs.

These drills challenge the abs to resist excessive rotation or bending of the back and they provide a great supplement to the multijoint compound movements.

These exercises are preferential to ab curls.

While not suggesting that ab curls will destroy your health, as most people sit in a flexed position daily it is better to move away from this movement in your training.

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Body Up® products are directed to modern women who demand quality.

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LOCAL TRENDS

Ask the Doctor BLOOD GROUP DIET CONTINUING OUR SERIES OF ARTICLES ON LATEST MEDICAL TRENDS, GENERAL PRACTITIONER DR MARÍA CARMEN NUÑEZ FROM MILLS AND MILLS IN MARBELLA ANSWERS SOME COMMON QUESTIONS

Q I have heard a lot about the so-called

progress on the diet can be assessed, and adjustments can be made as required. There will be further blood screens to have as part of the assessments. As this diet can mean quite radical changes in what you eat and drink, it is important that you are under the guidance of a doctor with knowledge and trainÏing in this particular diet.

“blood group diet”. What is this and how does it work?

A

The blood group diet was developed

by Dr Peter D, Adamo, who is a naturopath by training. He believes that our blood group has its own antigen marker and reacts either favourably or otherwise to different foods. The blood group diet states that, if you follow a diet specifically designed for your blood group, then you will absorb food more efficiently and you will lose weight and feel better.

The key theory behind the diet is that our blood groups evolved at different times in ancient history, and therefore our diet should relate to the diet that was

Q I hear that people feel much better on the diet and have more energy… is this true?

A If you are used to following a very Q Can it help me to lose weight? unhealthy diet, with the associated health and symptoms as a A Yes, you will lose weight. However, it must complications consequence, you can be amazed at the be remembered that this is a diet to improve your general health. If you are overweight and you lose weight that is a bonus.

Q I have high cholesterol and high blood sugar… would the blood group diet help me in this regard?

A

The doctor will take these factors into account and it is important that these conditions are treated and brought under control. Together with the diet, the doctor will monitor these conditions through regular screening of your blood. These conditions can be improved with the diet.

Q Do I need any tests before I can start the diet?

followed by our ancestors, depending on which particular group you belong to. It is claimed that the first blood group was type O. This group were mainly meat eaters (hunter-gatherers). The next group to evolve was type A. This group began to farm the land. Consequently, type O groups should follow a high protein diet based around meat, and type A should follow mainly a vegetarian diet. This is a very broad explanation and your diet doctor would create a special diet plan for you after in-depth analysis of your blood.

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A

We need to identify your blood group type to begin with. Usually, a detailed screening of your blood is undertaken at the first consultation, together with a full medical history. A specific plan is then put together for you based on the findings in the screening tests.

Q How often do I need to see

difference this diet can make to your life. By following the principle of the diet that you eat according to your blood type, you will be eating foods which your body is accustomed to. Therefore, you are less likely to suffer ailments which are reversible, by taking control of your eating habits. Also, you don’t just have to be following a very unhealthy diet to benefit. Many of us are just eating the “wrong” foods for our blood type. The blood group diet educates you to eat the foods which best suit your blood type, and which foods you should avoid.

Q How soon can I expect to see results?

A This varies from patient to patient.

However, most patients notice improvements in their general well-being quite quickly. If you are overweight, the benefits of losing that extra weight are obvious and weight loss occurs steadily from the beginning in most cases. As you progress through the different stages of the diet, the heath benefits increase as your personal plan becomes more refined by your blood group diet doctor.

the doctor?

A

It is important that you are monitored on this diet. Normally you will have regular appointments with the doctor so that your

Dr Nunez provides consultations for the blood group diet at Mills and Mills Medical Group: millsmedical.com.

To arrange a consultation: Tel. 902 906 058

CLINIC & BOUTIQUE

A ROUND-UP OF HEALTH, FITNESS AND BEAUTY NEWS FROM ALONG THE COAST THE MARBELLA VEIN CLINIC Cutting edge treatments Facial thread veins State-of-the art technology has revolutionised for all budgets The Marbella Vein Clinic is a state-of the-art treatment centre specialising in the management of varicose veins, spider veins, facial veins and deep venous thrombosis, offering unrivalled expertise and providing safe and affordable treatments.

They treat patients who have cosmetic concerns about veins on their face or legs, as well as others who suffer from symptomatic varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

They provide the most complete range of venous explorations and treatments available, using the latest techniques and modalities.

Varicose veins Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a new minimally invasive method for treating large varicose veins that eliminates the need for surgery in most cases. No general anaesthesia or hospital stay is required. It is a walk-in walkout procedure performed under local anaesthesia. All large varicose veins are treated in one session in the same leg. This requires only micro-incisions and no skin sutures. The aesthetic results are excellent and, one hour after treatment, the patient walks out of the clinic and returns to his or her normal daily routine the following day.

Leg thread veins Depending on the size, colour, and depth of the vessel, thread veins can be treated with foam sclerotherapy, microsclerotherapy and/or laser treatment. To ensure the best cosmetic results, the clinic uses a unique, polarised, specially manufactured light system.

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the treatment of facial veins. The use of a specific vascular laser is highly successful and gives immediate results without any scarring. Normal activities can be resumed after treatment.

Hand veins Microsurgical treatment or injection therapy is used to treat large, bulging hand veins that are unsightly and give an “old look”. This offers a fast and virtually painless way to have younger looking hands, and the results are dramatic and long-lasting.

To find out more: Tel. 952 867 003; marbellavein.com.

REFLECTIONS SALON New hair products for men Reflections Salon in Nueva Andalucía is stocking a new product line for November. Formulated with technologies exclusively developed by Recherche Avanceé L’Oréal (L’Oréal’s advanced laboratories), the Kérastase Homme Collection is designed to tackle key male and scalp concerns head on.

Enriched with a key technology called Système Taurine, products in the Homme collection target the primary physical concern of men: hair vitality.

Three shampoos (€14.50) and three treatments (€19.50) work in conjunction to invigorate the scalp and hair, while also targeting other common male hair concerns including hair density, dandruff and oiliness.

For more information: Tel. 902 325 324; reflectionsmarbella.com

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Swedish ladies celebrate in style in Marbella opposite page

Thai star too hot for rivals in Benahavis Senior Masters page 56

Celebrities join the festivities at stylish new Marbella venue page 48

Laura Davis shows star quality in Spanish Women’s Open page 59

Chic end of season party at Banús beach club page 50

Exotic celebrations at popular Marbella beach club page 52

Special new party room at glamorous Marbella venue page 55

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ADVERTORIAL

LA SALA Now officially inaugurated after two fantastic launch parties, La Sala is open from 10am to midnight, seven days a week. Complimentary valet parking is available right from opening hour, so it is the perfect place to start your day with a tasty breakfast.

There is now a set lunch menu from Monday to Friday, â‚Ź15 for two courses, which is a tremendous deal. All food is freshly made and the highest quality ingredients are used.

Also, with Christmas creeping up on us, what better way to spend the yuletide period than at La Sala? Bring your family and friends, but be sure to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

La Sala Tel. 952 814 145 lasalabanus.com 54

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COSTA GLAMOUR ... MIXING BUSINESS AND PLEASURE

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SOCIAL SCENE

Kristina Szekely’s DIARY

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REAL ESTATE IMPRESARIO, INDEFATIGABLE PARTY-GOER, PATRON OF THE ARTS, GENEROUS CHARITY SUPPORTER… KRISTINA SZEKELY IS THE QUEEN OF MARBELLA SOCIETY can be obtained for up to 40 years, at good interest rates, and – as I mentioned last month – there are 100 per cent mortgages available for Spaniards and residents, with other buyers offered between 50 and 80 per cent.

It is not only the higher end of the market that is showing positive signs. I was at the SIMA property exhibition in Madrid and – I’m not exaggerating – people were queuing up to hand over deposits, for properties ranging between €100,000 and €300,000.

Many were young people buying their first home, and we have a similar market here at the lower end, with good opportunities for properties in that price range – bank repossessions, auction sales, opportunities where owners need to sell quickly – so there is great potential, as well as the luxury apartments in El Embrujo Banús, which belong to a bank.

I noted before that the market turned in spring and we are finding more and more people who were waiting for prices to drop even further have lost out because someone else has suddenly come along and snapped up a good bargain. There is an upward trend in prices starting, though mainly at the lower end.

The rental market is also solid.

A lot of people are renting homes through our Gibraltar office, where we have some wonderful villas in the Point area, with panoramic views over the sea.

At night it is quite amazing, with all the tankers lit up.

On the social scene, one of the highlights was the second “international” launch party at La Sala Banús, where I was delighted to have the opportunity of chatting with one of the celebrity guests, former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

Photo Gary Tapp

t may seem strange to be talking about the weather in November but this really is the time of the year when the Costa del Sol’s renowned Mediterranean climate becomes an enticing lure for visitors from the north.

Already, as I write this diary in October, the weather is extremely cold in other parts of Europe and many people are looking forward to coming to the Coast, either on holiday or because they have second homes here – or, hopefully, are looking to buy a second home!

It is not only the traditional nationalities, from the UK, Germany and the Nordic countries.

I went to the annual furniture fair in Valencia and there were a lot of clients from eastern Europe, mainly Russia and the Ukraine. For them, just like other people escaping the northern climes, they find the weather in southern Spain a very strong attraction.

In fact, I am considering attending the next Moscow property fair to promote the attractions of Marbella – not only the weather. The banks are offering some excellent deals to buyers, including rental contracts with the option to buy. Mortgages

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Located just above our main offices in Benabola, La Sala is a great meeting point, open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just drinks. A lot of people are commenting on the excellent food and it is always a good sign to see a place so full – and with so many repeat clients.

Another wonderful evening was the concert organised by Amigos de la Música at the H10 Plaza hotel, where venerable Spanish actress Nati Mistral recited and sang works from Federico García Lorca. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, this music association was founded by Arthur Rubinstein and Plácido Domingo as honorary president. The concert that evening was in memory of Maria Buchinger, the founder of the Buchinger Clinic in Marbella, who died in March aged a very healthy 94.

During the month I attended a very colourful Flower Ball at Puente Romano; the dresses were made with natural flowers, including headware, and there was music all night and a stunning fashion show.

My Taiwanese pianist friend Meijen was visiting for a month and performed three concerts; and José María (my manager’s son) and Olga held their wedding in grand style at Don Pepe Hotel, with many visiting guests from Moscow. My sister’s birthday party was held at Maxwells Marbella; and I attended a conference by Marbella mayoress Ángeles Muñoz at Los Monteros hotel. I have to say it is great news for Marbella that this hotel – such an integral part of the area’s celebrated history – has now re-opened with a new owner and is back to its best.

Away from Spain, Mary Bloomfield and I went to the annual Breast Cancer Care gala at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London – as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As always it was a very emotional affair, with women who had suffered breast cancer taking part in the fashion show.

While in London, I met up with our Sotheby’s International Realty associates, who brought us up to date with their expansion plans in the UK. They plan to open 10 new Sotheby’s brand offices in the near future. We are certainly hoping to get a lot more business from the UK. So all in all business is shaping up well for a good November and Christmas season and, if the weather remains so beautiful, another opportunity to showcase the Costa del Sol at its best.

BeautifulMag Home azine LATEST COLOUR TRENDS for a cosy and inviting winter EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH...

David

Marshall Metal sculptor

inspired by nature

FOR SALE Making your home MORE DESIRABLE

DĂŠcor ideas Bold, playful, elegant and healthy

BeautifulMagazine Home

Contents design ideas 66

Eye-catching insight into avant-garde style

objects of desire 68

Great items for the colder months

home tech 70

State-of-the-art gadgets and electronics updates

trend espaĂąa 72 Tips for a cosy and inviting winter

inspired living 78 designer in focus 80

Family comfort and style

David Marshall: sculptor with a passion for innovation

business file 86 business directory 88

84 Making your home more desirable

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What’s Hot on the Coast

Key services & products

design ideas

STRIKING AND INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS TO GIVE YOUR FAVOURITE ROOM, OR CORNER OF THE HOME, A STUNNING AND ORIGINAL NEW LOOK COMPILED BY CHLOE MADISON

Quality lighting AMC projects can provide lighting solutions for any type of home on the Coast, whether it’s for inside or outdoors. They use the best materials, of the highest quality, and these Anperbar lamps, available at the AMC Projects lighting design studio, are both unique and stunning.

AMC Projects know that good lighting equals good decoration.

Amcprojects.com

Natural airs Kettal Bitta is a new collection of outdoor furniture designed by Rodolfo Dordoni, which comprises a combination of aluminium structures, teak wood, polyester rope and stone for the tabletops.

Dordoni wanted to create a dense braid that “still had room to breathe”, mirroring the twist of ropes used for mooring boats – the word “bitta” is berth in Italian.

The extensive collection of dining room and lounge furniture is in natural, relaxing tones, while the pieces also create a sense of lightness.

Kettal.com

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design ideas

Urban revolution Bo Concept’s new collection is inspired by the urban lifestyle and comprises colours and features which are attractive, simple designs using quality materials.

This is an open space for design, where clients will find the most innovative ideas to decorate their home.

The essence of the collection is that there are no limits: the designs have been inspired by the ‘60s and ‘70s, with classic pieces incorporated with sophisticated, modern touches.

Traditional colours of black, white and grey are mixed with coral red, orange and water blue, which are softened when combined with wood.

Three of the stunning items include the Nomi chair, which is noted for its revolutionary and stylish design; the Melo sofa, which has individual reclining seats to accommodate guests, giving it a multifunctional flair; and the Carmo sofa, which redefines the living space by creating a casual lifestyle and relaxing atmosphere – its compact design and modular system is available in 80 different fabrics including leather.

Boconcept.es

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objects of desire

Even with autumn here and winter looming, it is still so much nicer to spend time outside… Chloe Madison has chosen some great items to help you live outdoors in comfort and style for the next few months.

Jewel of an idea I don’t know about anyone else but my partner always moans about my many jewellery boxes and I seem to be forever untangling my necklaces, so these Bosign silver branch hangers are perfect for me to hang jewellery and keys on. The strong metal hooks can be easily fixed to a wall – by the front door for keys or the bedroom for jewellery – and I never need worry about tangled necklaces again.

Allupandon.co.uk

Colourful comfort It’s always nice to spruce up the sofa with some new cushions as after a while the old ones can look, well, a bit old so this embroidered cushion is ideal. The design gives a hint of colour and is slightly more interesting than all-plain cushions – you can also get other cushions to match easily by complementing the orange and greens.

Homesense.com

In the mood Elegant dining There is never enough room on the dining table when you are entertaining and you are forever passing the salt and pepper pots from one end of the table to the other. This distinctive salt and pepper mill has a twin chamber and is sleek and elegant on the dining room table. Easy to fill, the ceramic mechanism can be adjusted to give a coarse or fine grind.

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Spice up your bedroom with this groovy disco clock that will get you in the mood for any party.

Redcandy.co.uk

objects of desire

Light ambience These recycled aluminium tea light holders are great to put on the dining room table or around the living area when you have guests… you can turn off the harsh overhead lighting and use these and some lamps to create a great atmosphere.

Fairwindonline.com

Cute practicality In the summer we tend to live outdoors and perhaps forget about the little details for the inside of the house – it’s nice to update certain areas with cute little accessories such as these adorable cat and dog doorstops. Made from recycled materials, they are fairly traded from India and are handmade, making them both practical and cute.

Fairwindonline.com

Playful touch Definitely one for the girls’ night in, these adorable, playful handbag place settings are made from enamel and diamante and are a lovely touch at the dinner table.

Strawberryfool.com

Bold versatility This antique-looking mirror is great for either the boudoir or a boldly designed living room. The contemporary style will work well with other bold pieces and is fashionable and versatile, made from black glass.

Frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

Practical fun I used to have loads of books around my house in all the nooks I could find so when I bought a bookshelf these owl bookends would have been perfect to keep my books from falling of the shelves. Full of character, they are great fun and practical.

Strawberryfool.com

Healthy living Growing your own herbs and vegetables has never been easier and, let’s face it, it’s cheaper, they taste better and there is the great satisfaction of knowing you have grown what you are eating. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get the kids involved and help them learn about food and enjoy all the healthier things that they sometimes would steer clear of. So these porcelain herb and plant labels are great to help you get started. Available individually, or as a pack of three or five, the choice of what you want to plant is totally up to you.

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home tech Internet TV is here!

Fancy watching TV and browsing the internet at the same time? Well now you can with the new Sony HD TV. You can watch your favourite soap while updating your Facebook status. sony.com

GADGETS AROUND THE HOUSE STATE-OF-THE ART AUTOMATION, CONSUMER ELECTRONICS, HIGH-TECH UPDATES AND NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

Travelling light – and green A new way to travel. This electric-powered bike folds away to become extremely portable and lightweight. Capable of speeds up to 25kph it is certainly not slow – and it also looks pretty cool too. yikebike.com 70

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home tech

Fresh at its best The ultimate in fridges! With its “magic eye” control system, just a slight touch of your finger enables you to set each level of your fridge at different temperatures, keeping all your food at optimum freshness. liebherr.co.uk

Luxury litter tray Don’t you just hate litter trays and their mess? Modkat has created a modern litter tray where cats can have privacy while doing their business. modkat.com

COMPILED BY DAN OPUS 1 – IF YOU HAVE A NEW GADGET ON THE MARKET AND WOULD LIKE IT CONSIDERED FOR INCLUSION IN THIS SECTION. SEND INFORMATION (MAX. 50 WORDS) AND A HIGH-RESOLUTION IMAGE TO: design@societylivingmagazine.com

3D projection… on a budget

A light touch Stuck for space? This new gadget allows you to project onto any surface and create a touch screen. Great for impressing your friends. lightblueoptics.com

If you are keen to become involved in the new 3D phase, Acer has just released this 3D projector for under £500. So if you cannot afford a new 3D TV why not purchase this, together with some 3D glasses, and enjoy the new movies on offer! acer.com

Colourful glow A great gadget to brighten up your home...

With over a thousand iridescent shades, you will never become bored with your wall colour. yantouch.com

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Autumn colour trends 72

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Chloe Madison In winter there is nothing better than the fire and enjoying time at home offers some tips on lighting cosied up on the sofa with friends and family… how to make your after all, who wants to go out when it’s raining.

So why not make your home an inviting space home even more during the colder months, and friends will flock rather than the other way round. cosy and inviting to Ifyou you are thinking of redecorating rooms in this winter. your house you need to make sure you pick colours that suit you and your tastes, and that will also work well with existing furniture and household items. A bright orange wall with a black sofa and other furniture will not look good – the idea is to harmonise your rooms so you feel comfortable and relaxed in them.

When we think of autumn and winter we automatically think about colours such as browns, warm oranges and beiges, but why not be a little bit more adventurous and consider a new palette of colours that will enlighten your rooms.

Each season brings a new selection of colours that interior designers drool over so become

your own interior designer and have some fun.

This season’s palette is a deeper, more seasonappropriate take on summer’s vibrancy; and darker, richer shades will take over the walls.

Sapphire blue is an excellent colour for the bedroom or living space: use darker tones to create an opulent escape; bolder tones for family fun in children’s rooms or playrooms; and pale shades for a blissful, relaxing hideaway. Mix blue with oyster grey for tranquillity and a chic space or, for the more adventurous, mix with coral for a rich, sumptuous look.

Many designers have been inspired by nature and the natural world, especially the sea, so expect to see some great shades of green – such as cedar green. The different shades of green can work well in almost every room of the house and you can mix them with furniture to create a classic or contemporary room. It is a very restful colour and goes with practically anything, meaning you can work it to fit in with whatever you already own or anything you are hoping to buy. w w w. b e a u t i f u l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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Another important colour this season will be purple – you will see it a lot wherever you go and it could be a great colour for one wall of the living or dining area, or as the main colour of a bedroom. Don’t be afraid with purple – choose the darker, bolder shades for walls and use lighter shades for accessorising.

Create a boudoir bedroom – mixing it with black for ultra glam – but be careful not to go too over the top or it could look like a scene from Moulin Rouge!

These are obviously bold colours so if you aren’t that brave or want something a little more toned down there are some great paler shades and alternatives that will still make your house look beautiful. Maple glaze – or light, earthy brown to those of us who aren’t interior designers – is a wonderful rich colour… sophisticated and understated. It would look terrific with mossy greens, browns and burgundy, which you can use as an accessorising colour.

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and warm. It works brilliantly with brighter colours such as yellow and blue so if you have bright cushions or accessories you can tone them down for winter with a soft grey. A sharper grey looks great in kitchens and is less harsh than white but not as boring as magnolia.

Don’t become Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen though and use bold colours in every room if it’s not necessary. One boldly coloured wall in a room can look striking but if every wall is painted bright purple guests may only come to see you once! You want to a make a statement, not turn your house into coloured frenzy.

Why not a take a risk? It’s only paint after all; you can always choose another colour if you don’t like what you have.

If you still aren’t brave enough to paint walls or simply can’t if you are renting a property then use these colours for items that you can change easily if you don’t like them. Cushions, table runners, glasses or candles are a great way to inject some colour without going mad and splashing the walls with the latest colour must-have.

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no limits in new favourites

inspired living

FAMILY COMFORT AND STYLE This stunning beachside

property – located in the much sought after area of Guadalmina Baja, only 500 metres from the beach – is the perfect family home or holiday haven.

The beautifully decorated and expansive living/dining room has a feature fireplace with open fire; while the wood kitchen is fully fitted with cream-coloured units and a central island workplace. A sweeping spiral staircase leads to the upper floor.

The property has five double bedrooms and four bathrooms. The master suite is huge, with his and hers dressing rooms and a large bathroom with a jacuzzi bath and separate shower cubicle. Patio doors lead to a large terrace overlooking the pool and gardens.

The property also has a substantial basement/garage area, which could be developed into further accommodation.

Standing on a plot of 1,100 square metres, including a built area of 345 square metres, the home has ample terracing to both the ground floor and the balconies.

The professionally kept gardens include a swimming pool and children’s splash pool, an ornate garden fountain and a fish pond.

The property is also protected with a comprehensive alarm system and perimeter security cameras.

It is immaculately presented throughout, and being offered for sale at a price reduced from €1.850,000 to €1,695,000.

For more information: Tel. 607 979 470 saundersmills@yahoo.co.uk

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“Hydromassage is good for you! – Did you know that: -

As a therapeutic treatment it activates the blood circulation around myalgia / muscle tensions It activates specific trigger points that signals the muscles to release its tension Bathing in a spa with salt water cleansing along with 3-day fast It activates the calming nervous system and decouples and relaxes the body

Come and experience our spas with ACE salt water purification system.

Eric and Nicolette Vrolijc, Estepona‘ As regular users of our spa we feel that the hydro massage is having a very positive affect on our complete body. We feel relaxed and good after a session in our spa. Espial the massage under your feet is giving us much relieve and an overall good feeling.

It certainly as improved our life quality and not only by the treatment of the hydro massage but also as we regular use our spa with the whole family (me, my wife and 2 kids) and this gives us a nice time to talk with each other in a nice and comfortable way.

As my wife is suffering from rheumatism and/or arthritis this was in fact the idea behind our purchase of the spa. It gives her much relief as she is using this on regular basis while we are in Spain. This in combination with the warmth of the sun helps her a lot.

Debbie and Chris Howells, Mijas” We remain delighted with our decision to purchase a spa and have been pleasantly surprised by the constant use of it throughout the different seasons. It really is so relaxing sipping cava and watching the sun set over our stunning views.

The hydromassage greatly assists with relaxing the body and particularly helps with both mine and my husbands back problems, when a muscle is in spasm.

For us we are constantly working and quite often stressed and tense. The spa assists greatly with relaxing and unwinding from the days activities.

The service we have received from Aquapool has been outstanding from the installation to product supply to our ongoing maintenance contract. We remain impressed.

info@aquapool.es • www.aquapool.es Polígono Industrial de San Pedro • Carril de Picaza, no. 17 • 29670 San Pedro de Alcántara Tel.: +34 952 927 811 • Fax: +34 952 927 812 • Monday-Friday: 10-18 • Closed Saturday

designer in focus

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designer in focus DAVID MARSHALL Innovative sculptor with a passion for design

PHOTOS DAVID TOMS As someone born in the midst of war and chaos in 1942, David Marshall’s strong and complex character has derived from this. After studying non-ferrous metals with British Oxygen at the Royal Navy Officer Academy and at the University of Toronto, his fascination for sculpting unique and inspiring pieces has matured over the years. He speaks to Beautiful Home Magazine about why he moved to the Costa del Sol, his inspirations and what projects he has in the pipeline.

Firstly, what brought you to Spain and why did you settle on the Costa del Sol? I left Scotland when I was 18, went to Canada and worked for advertising agency. Then in 1962 I took to my motorcycle and ended up in Colombia. I stayed there for three years but unfortunately caught malaria, so I travelled to England to recover. Once recovered, I decided to come to Spain. The bonus was that I already spoke Spanish, being Colombian, and I’ve now been here for 45 years on and off.

Why did you choose Benahavis for your home?

I didn’t actually choose Benahavis. I originally came to Mijas, when it was basically a dirt road, to escape civilisation but now I have a farm up behind Ronda and it’s beautiful. On the other hand, my house in Colorado is also beautiful. I’m here for one half of the year and in the States for the other half. I’ve just opened a new gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which is pretty mad to do at the moment, but like everyone I’m just waiting for the economy to pick up again.

Do you think living in Spain has helped with your work… has it inspired you?

I guess I’m inspired by nature. Things that get me excited are the way rocks have been eroded and the way the mountains are. I’m in no way an industrial type city boy but it is difficult because there is no backup here like there is in a big city; there are no workshops or people who can finetune your work. Here you’ve got to be very selfsufficient and it does limit what you actually can do. I have my own plasma cutters and welders, and all the things I need to do I do myself because there isn’t really much support.

Anything else that inspires you?

I love travelling because you’re not just travelling: you’re meeting lots of new people. I like working with artisans who do things that I can’t do and whom I can learn from. Recently I worked in India and Thailand carving enormous trees, and learnt a considerable amount from that and the people I worked with. I’m working in Bali at the moment, which is very interesting because there is so much to get inspired by. One of the problems in Europe is the fact that the artisan has disappeared. I do a lot of sand casting myself, and I sort of invented a system for casting two materials at the same time. I still cast here in Málaga but it’s very old-fashioned now and not a lot of people know how to do it.

How did you come into your line of work?

I suppose the first job I did working with metals was in Colombia. I worked for a big construction company called Raymond International; we were

building a thermo electric plant and that’s where I started welding. In the UK I did a non-ferrous course with British Oxygen working with brass and magnesium. Then I came here in 1965, which was kind of a hippy time, and I used to make belts and bits of jewellery. I had a few exhibitions here and it just grew from that. I have done quite a lot really, often too much to remember everything, not to blow my own trumpet. I made cutlery and took it to Christian Dior, who commissioned me to make cutlery for them, which was a pretty good offer. I’ve worked for the Ryder Cup and Andalucía Open in the past and made all their VIP gifts. I’ve worked for UNICEF and made all their trophies. I’ve made fountains for Seville Water Board. Two years ago, at the launch of the BMW 5 series, all the journalists were given one of my pieces to take home. I mean, the list goes on.

In a world ruled by machines, why do you think people should stay true to their craft?

It seems a pity that we lose such a lot of processes that people don’t know how to do things any more. You need to go somewhere like India to see true artisans. Sand casting is hot, tiring, smelly; you’d make more money on the dole probably, which is a bit unfortunate, but the direction we’re going is that you press a button and it has to be mass produced. It’s not commercially viable in Europe to make things any more because making things by hand costs money and takes time; we’re much more commercially minded than we used to be. That’s why I travel to places like Ghana, where they make things for use and they decorate them; w w w. b e a u t i f u l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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designer in focus “I like doing something different because it then gives you more ideas and keeps life interesting” their pieces are not only practical but also they’re more like a work of art too, and we’ve lost that.

People in Europe want to make it, and then get it out there and sell it. We need to preserve those kinds of trades; it’s just too special to lose sight of.

Everyone in Europe seems to be in a hurry; they want to make as much money as they can as quickly as possible. We’re in a mass production world where the artist is anachronistic. Hopefully it’ll all come back.

Do you have a favourite piece of work?

The piece I’m working on now is fast becoming my favourite. I’m working on a couple of totems at the moment. I think the Indian culture of Colorado has worn off on me. But I like doing something different because it then gives you more ideas and keeps life interesting.

You like to combine other materials with metal. Can you give us some examples?

To be honest with you I got a bit fed up of working with brass and aluminium, but the trouble is that I’ve been doing it for so long that clients still want that from me. I’d gained a bit of a reputation because of that, but I feel like I’ve been there and done that and it’s nice to work with something else. For example, experimenting with brass and wood and aluminium and steel. I like to mix materials a lot; it gives the pieces more strength. I also find it’s nice to make things that have some kind of use.

What would you like to try next?

Well, I worked a lot with glass and wood in Bali.

Unfortunately it didn’t work out very well because I didn’t really know how to do it.

Different materials cool at different temperatures and different speeds, and it ended up being a bit of a disaster. Luckily I found some guys who blew glass who could teach me. It’s always something new when you’re playing with different materials and learning how they function and it’s good to experiment because life is an adventure and I wouldn’t even dream of stopping yet. I have too many things to do; I crave knowledge too much. You can’t let age prohibit you from doing something you love.

Any pieces you’re particularly proud of?

I don’t remember a lot of them, to be honest with you. I’ve done too many things to remember them all. I’ve built about 12 houses down here. I had a gallery in Mijas and one in Puerto Banús. Originally there were antique shops and Puerto Banús was fun but, once the money and all the bling came here, it changed everything. So we sold up and moved on.

What’s next for you?

I’m concentrating on America at the moment.

I’ve got a house and my galleries over there so that’s got most of my attention. The new gallery in Santa Fe is important for me to focus on at the moment because it’s the art centre of America.

My gallery is one of 220 galleries, so that’s my main focus; I want to see how it goes.

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“You can’t let age prohibit you from doing something you love”

designer in focus

“We’re in a mass production world where the artist is anachronistic.

Hopefully it’ll all come back”

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THINKING OF SELLING? CHLOE MADISON SUGGESTS EIGHT WAYS TO MAKE YOUR HOME MORE DESIRABLE

HOME MAKEOVER 1.

Disassociate yourself

Deciding to sell your house is one thing; moving out of your home is another. When you are selling your property you need to remove yourself and your emotions from the equations so that you look at things objectively. Say goodbye to the rooms and keep the memories at bay when showing people around. They will want to put their stamp on your house so let them and don’t disagree when they say, “Oh, I’d change this or that” – it’s off-putting and will annoy potential buyers. Think positive and look ahead: if you are moving it’s probably because you have found somewhere better and can make new memories.

De-clutter

2.

People seem to collect an extraordinary amount of junk – I know I have – so when it comes to selling up make sure you de-clutter. Be ruthless. Think of it like this: if you haven’t used it in a year, you don’t need it! However, if there are things that you really want to keep get them packed in boxes so they are not cluttering rooms. Keep counters, tops and windowsills clear – it gives the buyer more to look at and enables them to imagine their own knick-knacks there. Plus, with it all packed away you have a head start on the packing you will have to do when you do move.

Tidy cupboards

4.

Rearrange your cupboards – buyers tend to be quite nosy and we all love to snoop, so they will definitely open cupboard and wardrobe drawers. If these are tidy the buyer won’t be put off even if they are on the small side.

Seeing how easily your things fit into the cupboards will make them see how their own will as well. In the kitchen stack dishes neatly, turn coffee cup handles so they face the same way and have jars all facing the front. Make sure hangers in wardrobes all face the same way, shirts are buttoned and hang together and shoes are lined up, not just thrown in.

Tackle home repairs Make minor repairs to your home such as cracked tiles, counter tiles or small holes in walls. Leaky taps will be the first thing a buyer hears when they enter the bathroom so make sure they are fixed, as well as doors that don’t close properly or drawers in the kitchen that may jam up. If you are a bold decorator in your home think about the buyer – they may not have your tastes so painting brightly coloured walls a neutral colour will help. Don’t make them remember your house as the one with the ghastly orange bathroom. Lastly, change light bulbs that have stopped and remove any furniture that is broken – the buyer will still remember it as part of the house even if it’s not staying.

3.

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Make the house sparkle The house needs to look as if the King and Queen are coming for tea – wash the windows, clean out cobwebs, polish chrome faucets and mirrors, clean and clear the fridge and dust and Hoover the whole house. Fresh towels are also a must as well as a clean terrace area – swept and mopped – and a tidy garden. You don’t need to leave out every bit of garden furniture, or the kids’ toys. Pay attention to hidden corners – you never know where potential buyers might look. Also make sure your house smells nice – use air freshener or home-made bread, which may be terribly clichéd but still smells nice. Also wash any pets and keep their beds, etc., outside during the viewing.

5.

trend españa

Increase the space

6.

You want your home to look as desirable as possible so making it look bigger than it is will always help. You often hear people say things like, “Wow, it doesn’t look this big from the outside”, and that’s because clever people have used certain tricks to make their house look bigger. You want as much light as possible filtering through the rooms, so once the windows are cleaned use light, thin curtains that will let light in. Also make sure to remove overhanging branches or leaves from outside the window, as that will also hinder the light.

Inside, move furniture to the edge of the room if you can, and remove whatever doesn’t need to be in the room.

7.

Paint where needed

This is very important; walls are the bones of the house and they need to look fresh and clean. Paint is relatively cheap and if you do it yourself then you can achieve an almost new home with not much time or money.

Stick to neutral colours like beige or cream but avoid loud colours such as purple, yellow and red as the chances are the majority of people won’t like these on their walls. Just painting the walls can have a huge impact on the way your house looks and make a potential buyer more interested.

Curb appeal

8.

The very first thing a buyer sees when viewing properties is the home’s external appearance and the way it looks from the street. If they don’t like the look of the outside, it’s probable they will find fault with the inside. Mow the front lawn, if there is one; plant flowers, especially yellow as the buying emotion is evoked by this colour; trim the bushes; and paint any of the house that looks old or tatty.

Also, an inviting front door helps. Keep it neutral, not garish; traditional greens and browns are good and make sure visitors can clearly see the number. Go outside and scrutinise the house. Does it look welcoming? If not, what can you do to make it better?

When you have tidied, cleaned, painted and polished, walk round your home objectively and think of it as you first did when you came to view it – would you still buy it? w w w. b e a u t i f u l h o m e m a g a z i n e . c o m

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business file points is that, sooner or later, they end up shopping at El Corte Inglés. So we wanted to create a loyalty card that relates to their lifestyle on the Coast, a card that we could all use day in and day out, at El Corte Inglés, but also at partner businesses on the Coast. The What’s Hot magazine and card have been created for foreign people by foreign people, and the main idea behind it is really to emphasise the link between El Corte Inglés and local foreign communities.

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One of the largest family-owned companies in the world, and a shopping institution with Spaniards for over half a century, El Corte Inglés has in recent years also become the favourite department store for foreigners living on the Costa del Sol, as well as tourists. The marketing manager of El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús, Gaël Vignon, talks to Society Living about his own career with the company, and an innovative project, What’s Hot, aimed specifically at the store’s international clientele.

at t ’s H s a ot on the Co manager. Along the way, there have been many unique responsibilities and functions: sales, purchasing, management, etc… It’s just been the most exciting experience! The great side of this story is… it never stops. It’s a thrilling job; of course, very time-consuming but at the same time extremely rewarding.

How did you first start out in the department store business?

I studied marketing in Paris and Edinburgh and loved it. With a masters in one hand and some good international field experience in the other, I decided to move to Spain. I didn't know a word of Spanish, but I knew it was where I wanted to be. I started working for a local company until I was “mystery-shopped” by members of the El Corte Inglés team, who persuaded me to come on board. I was obviously very proud to be offered the opportunity to work for such an established brand as El Corte Inglés.

Tell me about What’s Hot…?

The What’s Hot magazine is a 100 per cent English-language media that was born in Marbella. We wanted to communicate with our foreign customers about local news, new promotions, new brands, etc., and make them more involved in their El Corte Inglés stores throughout the Coast. The magazine has been up and running for four years now, and is published quarterly, reaching 30,000 people. Thanks to this publication, we now have a more efficient way to communicate with the shoppers, and through their feedback we know they are grateful for it.

The idea of making El Corte Inglés part of the local community, and more personalised to our foreign customers, has been very much appreciated. Following this success, we went on to launch the What’s Hot loyalty card.

“El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús has to become as cosmopolitan as Marbella itself. That’s how much we value our local market”

Being head-hunted is a great achievement.

How did you feel when you were approached?

I mean, it’s a fantastic achievement and gives you the confidence in knowing that you’re doing a great job. I’ve been with El Corte Inglés for eight years now and still enjoy every day.

Did you start out as marketing manager for El Corte Inglés?

No, I had to work my way up the ranks, which in my opinion is the best way to learn and understand a huge organisation like El Corte Inglés. So I began as a sales assistant, and over the years I have established myself in the company and worked up to my current role as marketing 86

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What are the benefits of owning a What’s Hot card?

It entitles the holder to discounts from a number of locations, such as restaurants, leisure parks, golf courses, hotels, beauty products, spas, rent-a-car, etc… the list really does go on. New benefits are updated every month, so there is always going to be something that interests each individual cardholder.

What inspired you to create this card?

Well, Marbella and Puerto Banús are so international, with many different cultures living amongst each other. One of their many common

Why is the foreign market so important to you?

If you run a business, you have to deal with several obvious issues, one of them being the market in which you operate. Marbella is definitely far from being a typical Spanish market; Its communities, its average expenditure, its food, weather, trends, etc, are all parameters that form a very unique market, and the foreign communities include some of the most influential protagonists in the Marbella society. Year after year, El Corte Inglés has been learning from its foreign customers’ feedback to deliver a better service. For instance, most of our in-store jingles are translated into English; we have a team of interpreters who speak nine languages; we have created an International food selection; we advertise in local foreign media; we are very much involved in local foreigner social issues like charity organisations; we display English signage throughout the store; we run the What’s Hot magazine, and now we keep delivering with the What’s Hot card. We are committed to our local market and we hope it shows!

There is an existing El Corte Inglés card…

What makes the What’s Hot card different?

The El Corte Inglés card is available to anybody.

Also, it holds credit facilities, which the What’s Hot card doesn’t. More than 10 million people carry an El Corte Inglés card in Spain and I believe more than three million people have already asked for a Doble Cero card, which appeals to a younger market. The What’s Hot card is rather a local project which will benefit residents on the Costa del Sol. It’s a community concept, a bridge between our shopping centres and our customers.

We are very proud to have opened this door and we hope more people will take advantage of it each day.

What’s next for you?

At the moment, we are very busy handling the hundreds of applications for the What’s Hot card we are receiving every week, so I really want to focus on it and make sure that we are relating to the cardholders in the correct way. The actual figures are exceeding our target, which is absolutely fantastic, but we need to concentrate on quality, rather than quantity. This is why we are spending more time negotiating good deals with our partners for the benefit of our cardholders, rather than wasting energy making thousands of cards without content. That would really be counter-productive, don’t you think? In the long term, we’ll be thinking about implementing the What’s Hot concept in other areas in the country.

To apply for a What’s Hot card, visit whatshot.es or pop into El Corte Inglés Puerto Banús, first floor, and ask one of the staff for an application form. Your card will be handed to you immediately!

BeautifulMagazine Home Business and Services Directory I INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES I PROPERTY ADVICE I DÉCOR PRODUCTS I EXCLUSIVE SHOPPING I OUTDOOR LIVING

A comprehensive directory of decoration & décor, furniture & furnishings and landscape gardening outlets, as well as other property orientated companies on the Costa del Sol I ARCHITECTS CARLOS LAMAS San Pedro de Alcántara Tel. 952 886 970 / 609 572 275 www.carloslamas.com

FIBER PROTECTOR Tel. 952 928 963 www.fiberprotector.es

I ART

TOTAL BUILDING Altos de La Quinta Nueva Andalucía Tel. 622 541 722

FLOR4U COLLECTIONS www.flor4u.com

I FINANCE, INVESTMENT AND INSURANCE

STONE & GLASS Guadiaro Tel. 956 695 896 info@estudioarque.com www.estudioarque.com

JYSKE BANK Gibraltar Tel. (+) 350 72782 info@jyskebank.gi www.jyskebank.gi

I BATHROOMS

KNIGHT INSURANCE BROKERS Los Boliches Tel 952 660 535 www.knight-insurance.com

CASA DEL MÁRMOL San Pedro de Alcántara Tel. 952 799 661 www.casadelmarmol.com

I FIREPLACES PIAS CHIMENEAS Nueva Andalucía Tel. 951 275 693 / 617 649 583 info@pias-chimeneas.com www.pias-chimeneas.com

STEINBERG Marbella Tel. 952 764 083 www.steinberg.es I BEDROOMS

I FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS

BEDS OF SWEDEN C.C Calahonda Tel. 952 939 377 www.bedsofsweden.com I BUILDING & OTHER SERVICES A1 SAFE SECURE ELECTRICIANS Manilva Tel. 952 891 924 / 671 281 757

BOCONCEPT Mijas Tel. 951 242 092 malaga@boconcept.es www.boconcept.es CHILLOUT BEDS Pol. La Campana Tel. 661 328 218 www.chilloutbeds.com

JENSEN STORE (beds) Nueva Andalucía Tel. 952 908 855 info@jensenstore.com www.jensenstore.com LAS TELAS DEL PORTICO Puerto Banús Tel. 952 908 479 altadecoración@lastelasdelportico.com www.lastelasdelportico.com LAURA ASHLEY Marbella Tel. 952 76 47 42 www.laurashley.es METROPOLITAN CLOSET Marbella Tel. 902 446 044 / 952 903 977 www.metrocloset.com ROCHE BOBOIS Marbella Tel. 952 777 858 www.roche-bobois.com

SMART SYSTEMS San Pedro de Alántara Tel. 952 799 344 www.smartsystems.es

SPOTON DESIGN Nueva Andalucía Tel. 952 780 310 www.spoton.es

I HOMEWARE (online)

TODO MADERA Estepona Tel. 952 793 391 www.todomaderaestepona.com

I INTERIOR DESIGN AND DECORATION

UNOPIÚ ESPACE MARBELLA Marbella www.unopiu.es I GARDENS & FLOWERS

NEXT DIRECTORY www.nextdirectory.eu

AMBIENCE HOME DESIGN Pol. Ind. San Pedro Norte Tel. 952 853 642 info@ambiencehomedesign.com www.ambiencehomedesign.com ANA MORENO Fuengirola Tel. 952 479 858 www.anamorenodecoracion.com www.toldosmoreno.com

DICKSON www.infotoldo.es

SOTOGARDEN Sotogrande Tel. 956 795 716/956 795 694/956 785 033 www.paradise-garden.net

EL CORTE INGLÉS El Capricho Tel. 952 902 390 www.elcorteingles.es

I HOME AUTOMATION AND ENTERTAINMENT

BARBARA IFFLAND Tel. 952 494 282 / 610 522 681 barbara.iffland@gmail.com

BANG & OLUFSEN Puerto Banús Tel. 952 817 250 beolink@beolink.com www.bang-olufsen.com

CORTIJO LAS FLORES San Enrique Tel. 956 615 143 linda@cortijolasflores.net www.cortijolasflores.net

DOMOSAT Pol. Ind. La Quinta Tel. 952 787 357 www.domosat.com

GASTON Y DANIELA Marbella Tel. 952 774 224 www.gastonydaniela.com

GLASS CURTAINS Mijas Costa Tel. 902 433 435 info@glasscurtans.es www.glasscurtains.es GUNNI GLOBAL STORE Marbella Tel. 951 968 771 www.gunni.es

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visit our website VIEW ON-LINE KABILA (ANTOLINI) Pol. Ind. San Pedro Tel. 952 799 398 info@kabila-décor.com www.kabila-décor.com

LEXLAND ABOGADOS Marbella Tel. 952 778 899 marbella@lexland.es www.lexland.es

LOFT DESIGN San Pedro de Alcántara Tel. 951 969 179 www.loftdesign.es

I LIGHTING

PAULA MONAGHAN INTERIORS Fuengirola Tel. 952 493 895 info@paulamonaghan.com www.paulamonaghan.com PATRICIA DARCH INTERIORS Torreguadiaro (Sotogrande) Tel. 956 615 351 www.interiorsinspain.com RICHARD LEWIS INTERIORS Guadalmina Tel. 952 896 901 www.richardlewisinteriors.com WHITE DESIGN COMPANY La Cala de Mijas Tel. 952 494 155 www.whitedesignco.com I KITCHENS KITCHEN CONCEPTS (HÄCKER) San Pedro de Alcántara Tel. 952 799 307 Sotogrande Tel. 956 793 180 richard@kitchenconcepts.info www.kitchenconcepts.info

DOMOSAT Pol. Ind. La Quinta Tel. 952 787 357 www.domosat.com ECO LIGHTING www.eco-led-lights.com KSR LIGHTING EUROPE San Pedro Tel. 627 556 312 info@ksrlighting.com www.ksrlighting.com I PHOTOGRAPHY (homes & décor) DAVID TOMS Tel. 690 656 120 david4world@yahoo.com www.DavidTomsPhotography.com I REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY KRISTINA SZEKELY (SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY Tel. 952 810 102 info@KSsir.com

THE KITCHEN ROOM Estepona Tel. 952 896 336 www.thekitchenroom.com I LAWYERS HASSANS Tel. +350 200 79000 Chis White (tax partner): chris.white@hassans.gi Paul de Beresford (tax consultant): paul.deberesford@hassans.gi Angela Smart (tax adviser): www.hassans.gi

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FINE DINING

SUKHOTHAI

Aromatic delights at a Marbella favourite TEXT LAURA-JANE BRUCE PHOTOS RUTH JONES

S

ukhothai, meaning “Dawn of Happiness” in Sanskrit, was the first Thai restaurant to open in Marbella, and has become one of the town’s firm favourites. Its location on the Golden Mile is perfect; with indoor and outdoor seating, whatever the weather, you are always guaranteed a great experience.

A full Thai meal is an ensemble of distinctive flavours: citrus freshness, aromatic tastes and the fierce bite of chillies and peppers. The main ingredients include lemongrass, mint and spices.

The décor encompasses the feel of the restaurant perfectly; the staff are keen for you to enjoy your meal while also relaxing and enjoying everybody’s company. The modern purple décor and mirrored walls enhance the elegant and relaxing ambience; and the low mood lighting complements the cosy setting to perfection.

As I looked around at the tables, it was clear to see that everyone was thoroughly enjoying their evening, be it an intimate date for two people or

Restaurante Sukhothai Golden Mile, Marbella Tel. 952 770 550 sukhothai-restaurante.com 90

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a large family gathering. It was also brought to my attention that there were quite a few locals in the restaurant when we dined, both English and Spanish clients, so I knew we were in for a fantastic and delicious meal.

As we arrived, we were warmly greeted by Lincoln, who also owns Tai Pan and is a partner in Thai Gallery, and shown to our table. Ours was close to the kitchen, so as soon as we sat down my mouth was already watering from all the different aromas we could detect.

Sukhothai has a female head chef, Amornpan, who has worked for the restaurant for over 11 years, and was actually brought from London to Spain especially to work in the kitchen.

After being handed the menu, it was obvious I had no idea what I wanted to order and, along with my guests, we decided to ask our waiter to serve us his favourite dishes. Boy did he deliver!

Our starter was a mixed dish, which included elements of all the starters on the menu, and was perfect for sharing. I noticed that the family opposite us had asked for the same dish, and they definitely seemed to be enjoying theirs, so I could barely wait for ours to be served.

Our starter included a selection of beef, chicken and prawn satays, sesame toast and prawn balls, accompanied by their special peanut sauce, a sweet and sour sauce and a citrus vinaigrette. The beef was succulent, the sesame toast was light and crunchy, and the sauces

complemented the dish to perfection. Many people may be slightly reluctant about trying peanut sauce, as I was the first time I did, but trust me: it gives the dish variation and flavour.

The mixed starter was also beautifully decorated, even down to the carrot leaves and flowers.

Again for our mains, we were kindly served a selection of favourite dishes from the creative menu. Roasted duck curry in a spicy coconut milk with lychees and basil leaves was brought to us first, which was wonderfully palatable and fresh. Together with this, we devoured fried rice with pineapple and chicken, served in a pineapple – the ideal accompaniment. The dish was light and fragrant, and provided a nice twist to traditional fried rice.

Our third offering was Pat Thai (Thai noodles with prawns), which was a delicate dish and exquisitely presented. Finally, Kapraw (stir-fried) prawns with basil leaves, garlic and chilli, which had a certain kick to it but wasn’t overpowering. If you struggle to handle spicy foods, the chef will be more than happy to readjust the level of spice.

If that wasn’t enough, we were kindly brought a sweet, which thankfully was light and refreshing but still complemented the aromatic flavours of our previous dishes. Fried banana with seasonal fruits was consumed by all, and we left the restaurant satisfied and vowing we would definitely all be visiting again in the not too distant future.

TABLE TALK

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R E STA U R A N T RO U N D - U P

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he Costa del Sol might be best known for sun, beaches and glamorous parties but it is also a paradise for discerning foodies who delight in fine cuisine. This special monthly section features the latest restaurant and gastronomic news from along the coast.

COMPILED BY LAURA-JANE BRUCE

BEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT Fine dining and live music throughout winter Just because the weather is starting to cool off doesn’t mean that all the beach restaurants have shut down. Beach House Restaurant in Elviria is still

open for business, and will remain open throughout winter. Monday to Thursday now incorporates a set menu: €20 for two courses and €25 for three. This is open for lunch from 12.30 to 3.30pm and dinner 7 to 10.30pm.

Dishes available include the sticky spare ribs, which is braised in stock with star anise until falling off the bone and then barbecue-grilled to order; and sautéed, caramelised sea scallops with crab tabboulea with mint and coriander, which is also available as a main.

If dishes from the set menu don’t suit your fancy on the day, there is the option of ordering from the main menu and paying a small supplement; so, whichever option you choose, the prices are always going to suit.

The weekends feature some of the best live music acts. On Friday nights there is the house jazz duo New Life, with a female lead performer on Saturday nights, and Adam and Eve, a Caribbean-inspired duo, perform on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Also, New Year’s Eve is looming and the Beach House has a fantastic concept: €150 (excluding IVA) for a champagne reception, 12course degustation (tasting) menu (excluding wine) and dancing until the early hours.

For more details, and a sneak peak at the menu for the night, visit marbellabeachhouse.com or Tel. 952 839 458.

Also, with Christmas and New Year on the way, Small World and Tribeca 12 are now taking bookings for meals and events. They have great options and packages for the yuletide season and to welcome in the New Year, so be sure to contact them through their private events email (xmas@smallworldcafe.com) and book before it’s too late!

SMALL WORLD CAFÉ Innovative additions to winter menu After two years of fantastic trade, the guys at Small World have decided to freshen up their menu. Head chef Nico Tisone has now returned from his inspirational travels around Europe, and his experiences will be reflected in the innovative menu. They are planning to reinvent some of their old favourites, and add additional dishes for the winter.

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TERRA SANA Delectable new menus and breakfast delights An old favourite, Terra Sana on the Golden Mile and in Nueva Andalucía, is now under new management. This has brought new and exciting changes, with word on the grapevine that they are planning a great new refurbishment of both restaurants. The reality, however, is these new changes are already in motion!

For those cold winter weekends, the Golden Mile restaurant is offering Sunday roasts accompanied with excellent live music. Menu choices include beef, chicken or pork with all the trimmings – available from 12 to 6pm.

The Nueva Andalucía restaurant has now launched its new Pickin’s menu, which includes some classic favourites as well as additional dishes from new head chef Adriano, whose previous employers included Zuma Restaurant in London. This is available from 5 to 8pm every night. Nueva Andalucía is also adding delectable new delights to the breakfast menu.

Call Golden Mile on Tel. 952 777 480 or Nueva Andalucía on 952 906 205; or visit myterrasana.com.

7.30pm–00.30am Plaza Altamirano 1 • Marbella

Tél. 952 85 88 68

S OTO G R A N D E I

ESTEPONA I

SAN PEDRO I

P U E R TO B A N U S I

International

N U E VA A N D A L U C I A I YANX CAFÉ

Location: Centro Plaza Tel. 952 818 861 BUDDHA BEACH www.cafeyanx.com Location: Urb. Marina Villa A prized location and lively (beachside) atmosphere make this a great Tel. 952 813 882 Luxurious Balinese setting with choice all-round. al fresco restaurant serving an appetising selection of dishes NERMAN’S RESTAURANT ranging from fresh seafood plat- AND BISTRO BAR ters to Thai fusion cuisine, sushi, Location: Avenida del Prado Tel. 952 815 398 creative salads and lighter nermansrestaurant@yahoo.com dishes. A “snack and wrap” Sumptuous home cooking in a menu can be enjoyed from relaxed atmosphere, with Buddha’s beach beds. attentive staff and good value for money.

LA SALA BANÚS Location: Calle Belmonte POLYNESIAN’S Tel. 952 814 145 RESTAURANT AND lasalabanus.com Open from 10am to midnight, COCKTAIL BAR Location: Urb. La Alcazaba seven days a week, La Sala offers eight individually-styled Tel. 952 816 100 settings to suit whatever mood restaurantepolynesians.es you are in – for breakfast, lunch, Exotic fusion of tropical and dinner, afternoon drinks with oriental cuisine, with indoor or al FROM TRADITIONAL MEDITERRANEAN TO A WIDE SELECTION fresco dining, relaxing ambience friends, evening cocktails or OF INTERNATIONAL CUISINE private business meetings. A set and Chinese wood-fired oven lunch menu from Monday to specialities.

Friday is available for ?15 for TERRA SANA two courses; and SAN ROQUE WEST OF SAN PEDRO PUERTO BANÚS complimentary valet parking is Location: near Andalucía Plaza Tel. 952 906 205 available from 10am.

Oriental Italian Italian Renowned for its tasty and healthy dishes.

BUBLÉS KAMAKURA LA PAPPARDELLA MACCHERONI Location: Plaza Antonio Location: golf resort Location: Laguna Village Location: Jardines del Puerto Banderas, TIBV Tel. 956 646 575 Tel. 952 807 354 Tel. 951 703 175 Tel. 606 070 979 Considered one of the finest Popular Italian restaurant group Fashionable pizzeria serving Superb international cuisine and Japanese restaurants in Spain. which made its mark in London authentic Italian specialities. and Puerto Banús. Extensive list Takeaway available. Open every cocktails in stunning Balinese roof terrace setting. of dishes made using finest night from 8pm.

SOTOGRANDE Italian ingredients, and great NUEVA ANDALUCÍA service. A fine dining experience Oriental International in chic, luxurious surroundings.

International

s t n a r u a t s Re Guide to fine dining

KE BAR

Location: Frontline port Tel. 956 793 333 Chic venue ideal for watching the world pass by with snacks and full meals.

BENAHAVIS

FLAHERTY’S

Location: Crta. de Ronda Tel. 952 812 794 www.alabaderoresort.com Creative inexpensive cuisine, in elegant surroundings including stunning garden setting .

Location: Frontline port Tel. 956 790 390 Lively Irish bar and restaurant with well-priced snacks and full dishes – fun ambience and live music evenings.

CASARES International SCHILO Location: Ctra. de Casares Tel. 952 937 800 www.fincacortesin.com Gourmet Asian-fusion cuisine created by world-class chef Schilo Van Corvorden at the Finca Cortesin hotel and golf resort. Superb service, elegant setting and excellent wine list.

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International TABERNA DEL ALABADERO

THAI GALLERY

Location: Puerta de Banús Tel. 952 818 392 Creative cuisine with professional service and lively atmosphere.

Open daily for dinner.

NAGA THAI

SAN PEDRO

Location: C.C. Cristamar Tel. 952 815 319 Wide range of exquisite and exotic dishes enjoyed in stylish surroundings. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Take away and full catering service also available.

International

NARUTO

Location: Cento C. Cristamar Tel. 952 811 827 Contemporary cuisine, Location: C.C. La Colonia presented by Sushi des Artistes Tel. 952 781 583 (Golden Mile) – sushi, sashimi www.passioncafe.eu Fresh and creative food served and Japanese tapas. Takeaway throughout the day. Fantastic available. Open seven days a breakfasts, salads, wok dishes, week from 1pm to late. fajitas, burgers, wraps and sandwiches. Daily specials and superb evening menu. Eclectic décor and pleasant ambience.

PASSION CAFÉ

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GIRASOL Location: Avda. del Prado Tel. 952 813 859 Superb service and excellent food from award-winning chefs Michel and Paul. Attractive surroundings and pleasant patio terrace overlooking golf valley.

MAGNA CAFÉ Location: Magna Marbella Golf, Tel. 952 929 578 www.magnacafe.com Exquisite cuisine in stunning surroundings. Bar and large terrace with breathtaking views.

STARZ MARBELLA Location: C.C. Centroplaza Tel: 952 816 313 www.starzmarbella.com International food with all-day breakfast and extensive lunch menu. Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am–5pm. Free wifi.

EVITA BY BUENOS AIRES Location: Avda. del Prado Tel. 952 929 620 Superb Argentinean cuisine. Golf views on a beautiful terrace.

MARBELLA

Italian REGINA’S Location: near Andalucía Plaza Tel. 952 814 529 Elegant surroundings with highquality Italian dishes ranging from traditional to creative.

Oriental THAI BANGKOK Location: Plaza de Las Orquídeas Tel. 952 813 603 Traditional Thai and Asian cuisine made from the freshest ingredients.

Open daily for lunch and dinner.

GOLDEN M ILE Oriental SUKHOTHAI Location: Marbella Mar Tel. 952 770 550 Fabulous Thai cuisine, with intimate surroundings and cosmopolitan décor.

TAI PAN Location: Puente Romano Tel. 952 777 893 Enjoy cocktails at Polynesian bar before sampling oriental cuisine in beautiful surroundings.

EAST OF MARBELLA I

FUENGIROLA I

BENALMADENA

s t n a r u a Rest

THAI ELEPHANT

SUITE

CASAMONO

TERRA SANA

Location: opposite Marbella Club Tel. 952 779 166 www.yakudza.es Sumptuous original Thai and Japanese cuisine including sushi and a selection of curries, with large terrace area perfect for al fresco dining. Take-away and delivery service also available – with full menus and online order service.

Location: Hotel Puente Romano Tel. 952 820 900 Stunning restaurant and lounge serving superb Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine in luxurious surroundings.

Location: Calle Estébanez Calderón Tel: 952 774 578 The cuisine is in the style of a classic French bistro with a delicious array of cocktails.

Location: Nueva Andalucía Tel. 952 906 205 Freshly made, lovingly prepared food which uses the best possible ingredients. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Italian

GARUM

French

International VILLA TIBERIO Tel. 952 771 799 Highly popular restaurant set within stylish surroundings, al fresco at its best.

SMALL WORLD CAFE Location: C.C. Le Village Tel. 952 771 046 Small World Cafe is a cool, contemporary restaurant where diners can enjoy lazy breakfasts, a quick bite for lunch or a relaxed dinner from the simple yet creative menu.

TERRAZA DUAL Location: Marbella Mar Tel. 952 925 250 www.terrazadual.com Great service and attractive surroundings. Home-made dishes. Take away also available.

MARBELLA International ZOZOÏ

Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 858 858 www.garummarbella.com Great for drinks, snacks and à la carte dining. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner Open seven days.

THE ORANGE TREE Location: Orange Square Tel. 952 924 613 / 680 224 457 Creative contemporary cuisine, with innovative new menu every six weeks. Open daily for dinner from 6.30 till late; early evening menu until 8pm.

Location: Plaza Altamirano Tel. 952 858 868 Old converted house provides perfect atmosphere for cuisine BIJOU BAR & BISTRO with a difference.

Location: Plaza Juan de la Rosa Tel. 952 776 468 www.bijoumarbella.com SANTIAGO Varied and well-priced cuisine, Location: Paseo Marítimo designed to include fresh Tel. 952 770 078 www.restaurantesantiago.com ingredients, in comfortable Specialising in fish and seafood environment with excellent, friendly service. Open Tuesday from throughout Spain. to Sunday at 6pm.

CASANIS Location: Calle Ancha 8 Tel. 952 900 450 Exquisite bistro serving menu del día as well as à la carte, aperitifs and cocktails. Open Monday to Saturday for dinner.

Italian ZAFFERANO Location: Calle Gloria 12 Tel. 952 863 125 Beautiful renovated old town house with modern Italian cuisine in elegant surroundings.

CASA NOSTRA Location: C/ Camilo José Cela Tel. 952 861 108 Local dining institution since 1988, with extensive selection of superb Italian cuisine.

Authentic and innovative Italian cuisine

DA FABIO Location: Marbella & El Rosario Tel: 952 823 376 / 952 833 467 Friendly, authentic Italian restaurant offering traditional cuisine and special dishes prepared by the chef. Open daily 11am-midnight, with easy parking.

Superb entertainment, elegant surroundings and excellent service

EAST OF MARBELLA International BONO’S BEACH Location: Costabella beachside Tel. 952 839 236 www.bonosbeach.com Fine cuisine in a stunning location on one of the most beautiful beaches in Marbella.

THE BEACH HOUSE Location: frontline beach Elviria Tel. 952 839 458 www.thebeachhousemarbella.com Idyllic location by the sea with stunning sunsets over one of the Coast’s best beaches. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

NIKKI BEACH Location: Hotel Don Carlos (beachside) Nikki’s signature “global” cuisine served in luxurious beach club surroundings either on the palmshaded al fresco terrace, or from one of the oversized beach beds.

Tel: 952 814 529 Edificio La Ruleta (next to the Hotel Andalucia Plaza) Nueva Andalucia

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EAST OF MARBELLA I

FUENGIROLA I

BENALMADENA

MIJAS COSTA

Vegetarian

International

VEGETALIA

s t n a r u a Rest

Location: C/ Santa Isabel 8 Tel. 952 586 031 www.restaurantevegetalia.com Location: La Cala seafront Salad buffet with hot dishes of Tel. 952 493 749 Popular restaurant overlooking the day at lunchtime; a la carte the sea, with entertainment and selection in the evenings, fresh dancing every evening. Superb juices and homemade desserts.

Open Monday-Saturday lunch; food in elegant surroundings.

Friday and Saturday dinner.

MIJAS PLAYA

Cha Cha Bar and Grill

VALPARAISO

Location: Ctra de Mijas Spanish Tel. 952 485 996 Excellent Italian and international LA GAMBA DORADA cuisine served in charming and Location: Avda. Jesús Cautivo Tel. 952 477 267 elegant surroundings.

The best seafood in town, in pristine surroundings with FUENGIROLA professional and friendly service.

International PUEBLO LÓPEZ Location: off C/ Valencia Tel. 952 471 929 Well-established, family-run restaurant in charming Pueblo López cobbled courtyard.

MIJAS PUEBLO

MESON BRAVO Location: C/ Francisco Cano Tel. 952 585 417 Wide selection of traditional Spanish and original international cuisine for all tastes.

Oriental MAKATI TEPPANYAKI

Location: Edif. River Playa Tel. 952 580 640 www.restaurantemakati.com VILLA VARSOVIA Location: Crta. Mijas, Km. 4.2 Superb Japanese cuisine in chic surroundings with excellent Tel. 952 590 727 Polish and international cuisine – service – moderately priced but ample dishes. original creations, well-priced and generous servings with easy parking and live entertainment BENALMÁDENA twice a week.

International

Indian

LOS BOLICHES Oriental THAI LANNA Location: C/ Francisco Cano Tel. 952 587 139 Exquisite selection of wellpresented Thai dishes in attractive ambience, with friendly and attentive service.

Italian

NIRVANA Location: Altos del Higueron Tel. 952 568 564 Wide selection of excellent, moderately priced Indian cuisine in friendly atmosphere.

LA CARIHUELA

NEW BAR AND GRILL OPEN! International cuisine

Spanish RÍAS DE GALICIA

Location: Paseo Marítimo Tel. 952 385 974 / 629 535 887 5 SENSI Location: C/ Francisco Cano 15 www.riasdegalicia.es Basque and Galician cuisine in Tel. 617 909 805 frontline beach setting. Extensive A chance to enjoy all five à la carte selection and senses in tasteful – delicious selection of starters, pastas and moderately priced menu del día . meat dishes.

Opening times Weekdays and Sundays 12pm – 02:00am Fridays 12pm – 03:00am Saturdays 09:00am – 03:00am

687 365 811 Centro Comerical Plaza L 64 Nueva Andalucia, Marbella Malaga 29660 By the Bullring in Puerto Banus

tel 687 365 811 951 319 273

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ON THE ROAD

“Whether driving slowly around town or taking autobahn sweepers at speed, the A8L feels solid, secure and planted�

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Efficient refinement

AUDI A8L W12

ON THE ROAD

“Silence and power are definitely the hallmarks of the latest W12 in the Audi A8L”

Silent power CRUISING ON THE AUTOBAHN AND CHAUFFEUR-DRIVEN ON THE WAY HOME, MOTORING AUTHOR, RACING DRIVER AND PHOTO-JOURNALIST IAN KUAH DISCOVERS THE CONTRASTING PLEASURES OF THE AUDI A8L W12

If

you believe in magic, there is no substitute for a twelve-cylinder engine in your car. Its firing pulses are even smoother than a bent-crank V8s and, providing it is silenced for comfort rather than speed, it truly is the last word in refinement.

Where the industry standard has always been the V12, the VW group decided to take a detour around convention and make their twelve-cylinder in a W-configuration.

Essentially four rows of three-cylinders merged into two cylinder banks, forming two narrow angle VR6 engine blocks with a 72-degree included angle; the compactness of this motor allows just two camshafts per cylinder bank. Thus, it is more of a VR12 than a W12 engine.

The chief advantage is a shorter block for easier north-south packaging although, as physics dictates, the engine must then be wider. But for an engine that was designed to be installed as far back in the chassis as possible, and in more than one platform (normally-aspirated in the VW Phaeton and Audi A8, and twin-turbocharged in the Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur), shortness was a clear advantage.

The firing pulses of the W12 are quite different from its Vee-configuration cousin.

From within the cabin, both engine types are well nigh inaudible at idle, but if you are standing behind the car the W-motor seems to have a slower “boom, boom, boom” firing pulse, not unlike a huge boat engine. This is definitely a W-thing, as the Bugatti Veyron’s w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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ON THE ROAD

“The air suspension soaks up bumps at low and high speeds with none of the float that can make some limousine travel a sickness-inducing experience”

W16 motor has a similar soundtrack at idle.

Where the original W12 displaced 5998cc, the latest version sports 6299cc, direct fuelinjection and other improvements. This undersquare (86.0 x 90.4mm bore x stroke) 6.3 litre W12 produces 500hp at 6,200rpm and 625Nm of torque at 4,750rpm, seamlessly deployed by Audi’s super smooth eight-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox.

Efficiency has been dramatically increased, so not only is the revised engine more powerful but fuel economy is 10 per cent better at 12.4lt/100km, and CO2 is down to 250gr/km. These are remarkably low numbers for a 12-cylinder, 6.3 litre limousine.

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A press launch event normally means time behind the wheel, but when appraising a limousine time in the back seat is de rigeur. This reveals the important other side of a car in terms of leg-room, head-room, ride and cabin noise.

Audi clearly recognise this issue and, as most of their customers who sign up for their new flagship A8L will be chauffeur driven, they suggested that we drive the car to the lunch stop/press conference venue, and then be driven back in the evening.

Silence and power are definitely the hallmarks of the latest W12 in the Audi A8L. It is only available in long-wheelbase form in the latest A8, and after sales statistics of the previous

model concluded that W12 SWB take up was almost non-existent; the W12 is so quiet that, even on full throttle, it is hard to discern its aural signature from behind the wheel.

This virtual silence in the cabin is also true to a slightly lesser extent with the A8L’s alternative engines. As with the normal wheelbase car, these are the supercharged 265hp 3.2 litre V6, the 372hp normallyaspirated 4.2 litre V8 and the 250hp 3.0TDI V6 and 350hp 4.2TDI V8 turbo-diesels.

There is no speed limit on sections of the autobahn heading south from Munich towards the Austrian border, and I took advantage of this to explore the all-out performance of the A8L

ON THE ROAD

W12. While the 0-100km/h sprint takes 4.7 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, effortless is a good word to describe how swiftly the Audi flagship reaches or regains its cruising speed in the real world. So subdued are its mechanicals, you really have to check your speed in areas with limits, as 160km/h feels like walking pace to this car.

The big Audi is just as quiet as the Rolls-Royce Ghost I tested recently, and nearly as quick in a straight line since it is much lighter. However, the Audi would have vastly superior traction in slippery conditions, where its quattro four-wheeldrive system comes into its own. According to chassis engineer Michael Wegschneider, the

spring and damper rates of the adaptive airsuspension are the same as the normal wheelbase A8. Thanks to the car’s allaluminium construction, the extra 13 centimetres in its wheelbase only increases kerb weight by 25 kilograms, easily compensated for by the self-levelling system.

The one option that does increase weight significantly, and in the wrong place, is the Panorama roof. Unlike any other roof of its kind, this features a tilt and slide facility for both front and rear panels.

Press launch stopovers tend to be at notable restaurants, but one of my all-time favourite places is Hanger 7 at Salzburg

Airport. This is a very special venue if you like good food and aeroplanes.

Opened in August 2003, Hanger 7 belongs to Red Bull owner and pilot Dietrich Mateschitz, and is an Aladdin’s Cave for aircraft and car enthusiasts, as well as for fine food and wine gourmets.

Hangar 7’s architecture is quite unique.

Constructed from 1,200 tons of steel and 380 tons of special glass, it mimics the shape of a huge wing, and houses offices and lounges as well as the three-star Michelin Ikarus restaurant.

The transparency of the building’s outer shell creates a different ambience in the interior according to the ambient light outside. Against a w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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ON THE ROAD

“You experience the A8L’s refinement to an even greater extent when cosseted in the roomy rear compartment”

backdrop of the “Flying Bull” aircraft collection such as the F4U-4 Corsair and B-25J Mitchell, the interior of Hanger 7 is used for art exhibitions.

Since Red Bull began its motorsport sponsorship, various F1 cars from past seasons have also been housed here.

Hanger 7 is open to the public, so anyone can go there to enjoy a fabulous meal at the Ikarus restaurant or a drink in the bar, and discover the delights of one man’s aviation and automotive fantasies (hangar-7.com). On the return journey, it was immediately apparent 104

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that you experience the A8L’s refinement to an even greater extent when cosseted in the roomy rear compartment.

Cruising at 160km/h, the world outside passes in near silence, and you can literally whisper to your companion and be clearly heard. Because engine noise is a non-issue at cruise, if you want to listen to music, watch a movie or simply work on your laptop, this is a great place to be.

As an audiophile, I was impressed by the 1,460W, 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Whatever you might think of their domestic audio systems, there is no doubt that B&O have done a very good job in the A8’s cabin.

While B&O’s first attempt at high-end car audio in the previous A8 was good, it was compromised by the fact that it was retrofitted to an existing car. The opportunity to design a bespoke audio system into the new A8 from day one has made all the difference, and the level of transparency and imaging I experienced with the latest system clearly sets the bar high for factory-installed car audio.

ON THE ROAD Despite the generously sized standard 9.0J x 19-inch alloys shod with 255/45ZR19 tyres, the ride quality in the rear cabin is superb. The air suspension soaks up bumps at low and high speeds with none of the float that can make some limousine travel a sickness-inducing experience. Whether driving slowly around town or taking autobahn sweepers at speed, the A8L feels solid, secure and planted.

Even on a car of this stature, the options list is long, and includes massage seats with heating and cool air venting, and 10.2-inch LCD video screens on the front seat backs. If you

are so inclined, you can even have a drinks cooler between the individual rear seats.

For business users, a significant USP is the A8L’s potential internet connectivity using the optional UMTS module. In its ultimate version, this system can access Google through the online Bluetooth car phone, providing Google Earth’s 3D satellite imagery and other information you would normally only get on a laptop with a fast broadband connection.

In effect, the car creates a mobile hotspot for you to surf the net with your laptop, iPhone, iPod Touch or similar device, and you can connect up

to eight mobile devices at one time. Once upon a time, flagship limousines battled it out with the big guns of cylinder count, horsepower, performance and comfort. Today, these aspects are very much taken for granted and, as CEOs and wealthy individuals spend more time working in the back of their cars on the move, connectivity is becoming more and more important.

In this respect, the new Audi A8L is at the cutting edge of what is possible to keep today’s high-tech high-flyer up to speed on the go. As a drivers’ car, as well as one to be driven in, Audi’s new A8L is as good as it gets.

“The new Audi A8L is at the cutting edge of what is possible to keep today’s high-tech high-flyer up to speed on the go”

TECHNICAL FILE AUDI A8 L W12 Engine: 6.3 litre W12 Maximum power: 500bhp at 6,200rpm Maximum torque: 625Nm at 4,750rpm Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Top speed: 250km/h (electronically limited) 0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds Price: consult local dealership

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BUSINESS PROFILE

What prompted you to open a beach club and more recently a restaurant lounge bar?

First and foremost it was my utmost confidence in Marbella itself that enabled me to establish Buddha Beach and now La Sala. Being here 21 years now, I had the assurance that the Marbella community would support new local businesses and make my companies as successful as they are today. Secondly, I wanted a hands-on business that would enable me to interact with the staff and the customers, and to inject my passion into something. This passion is crucial when opening new businesses.

THE NEW MARBELLA …and the people behind its success

A

fter a couple of, let’s say, difficult years, Marbella is back in the headlines for the right reasons. Once again the spotlight is on a town that has been a favoured haunt for the famous for five decades… that (possibly) has more Ferraris and Porsches per square kilometre than any other area of comparable size… that is home to the most über-select fashion boutiques… that takes fine dining to new levels of excellence and creativity… that has more golf courses than any other municipality in Spain…that throws the best parties… that is home to the chicest of chic beach clubs…

In short, Marbella is back on the radar – and determined to consolidate its international reputation as an expatriate and tourist resort par excellence.

There are various reasons for Marbella’s resurgence. Michelle Obama’s visit this summer helped, and the town hall and other authorities have worked hard to sort out the wellpublicised legal and urban morass that besetted the town.

Perhaps most importantly, however, people in business – Spaniards and foreigners alike, both old

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hands and relative newcomers – have maintained their faith. In the first of a regular series of features on Marbella’s leading entrepreneurs, Society Living talked to Ian Radford, co-owner (with Rob Segal, Howard Holland and Premiership footballers David Bentley and Stephen Carr) of Buddha Beach and the newly-opened La Sala lounge bar and restaurant.

Society Living publisher Andy Clark caught up with Radford – a 41-year-old father of two girls Sofia, 16, and Chea, six months) – at the “international” launch of La Sala last month, where he also took the opportunity of speaking to Carr, and former English goalkeeper Paul Robinson.

IAN RADFORD What business were you involved in before moving to Marbella?

My main business is in football. I used to bring English teams down to the Coast for training courses and friendly matches against local Spanish sides. Through this, I met Robert Segal, one of my partners in Buddha Beach and La Sala and, through him, David Bentley and Stephen Carr became partners also.

What has been the initial reaction to La Sala since it opened at the end of summer?

The reaction has been incredible. I couldn’t have asked for anything better, to be honest with you. The location is fantastic and the staff are committed to making La Sala work.

Are there any special qualities an entrepreneur needs to be successful in Marbella - i.e. different or additional qualities to those required back in the UK? Well, it’s very important to know your location. Knowing Marbella and the way of life down here helps you enormously to learn what your customer wants, because at the end of the day the customer is the most important factor in business. You also need to understand and respect the Spanish people, because they are very important to making business succeed.

How much effect does the "Mediterranean lifestyle" have on business management and choices in Marbella?

It has a huge effect because of the laidback attitude that Marbella has. It’s important to remember that it is not a holiday and you need to be disciplined and focused.

BUSINESS PROFILE

What is the secret to your success?

There’s not really a secret to being successful in Marbella. It’s all about working hard for something you believe in, understanding and integrating with the Spanish community and, most importantly, being disciplined.

Do you have much free time for leisure? How do you like to spend it?

To be very honest, over the last eight months or so I’ve finally had the opportunity to relax. Buddha Beach and La Sala are doing very well, so I now have some free time to spend with friends.

Any upcoming events planned to La Sala?

Now the winter season is upon us, Buddha Beach is closed and La Sala is obviously the main focus.

We are going to have live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and then on Sundays we are introducing the Sunday roast to the menu.

A long-term business goal?

Just to keep Buddha Beach and La Sala as successful as they can be.

What word or phrase would you use to define Marbella?

There is only one word to describe Marbella: perfect.

And a word or phrase to describe yourself – in a businessman context?

I am very hard-working, disciplined and, most of all, I make sure I still have fun.

What would be your first decision if you were elected mayor of Marbella?

Ask Ángela Muñoz to work for me! (She is doing a great job and I hate politics.)

If you could arrange a dinner party with any three people of your choice, who would they be?

Gordon Ramsay to cook it, Eddie Murphy and my beautiful Claire for afters.

The courses here are fantastic; La Quinta and Benahavis, for example. Like I said earlier, the climate here allows you to spend your time off outdoors, and my favourite hobby is definitely golf.

What is your favourite place in Spain – outside Marbella?

City – Sevilla; beach trip – Cádiz.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Carr: The opportunities that it opens and the freedom to travel.

Robinson: The fact that what people do in their spare time relaxing is my job. I never forget how fortunate I am to be able to do something I love and get paid to do it.

STEPHEN CARR and PAUL ROBINSON What draws you to Spain and the Spanish lifestyle?

Carr: The people here in Marbella draw me to Spain. The atmosphere down here is so fantastic; it’s like a small tightlyknit community.

Robinson: I enjoy the fact that there is an English community here, making it seem like a home-from-home. Also the climate and the lifestyle suit me perfectly.

What are your impressions of La Sala?

Carr: It’s absolutely fantastic. It’s nice that it’s away from Puerto Banús and it’s just different to anything else that’s here. You can relax and have a few drinks with the family and, if the opportunity arises, you can stay here right until the end of the night. It has everything.

Robinson: It has filled the niche market that Marbella was lacking. It has everything in one location. The diverse setting allows you to chill out during the day with friends and family, and then it can turn into a night out if you so wish.

How do you like to relax?

Carr: Golf is the best way to relax.

Robinson: I always play golf when I’m relaxing.

In future issues we would like to feature other people who are also making a difference in Marbella – truly making a difference! Not flyby-nighters who talk the talk but don’t end up walking the walk, and abandon the Coast when things get a little tough. But people like Ian Radford who transform dusty old premises into trendy meeting places; charity workers who give their time for others, for no personal reward; retailers who continue to invest their own money and efforts into providing the services we need…

Marbella does not need hairdressers who turn up to a fanfare proclaiming themselves the “new Vidal Sassoon”, then quietly disappear less than a year later; or individuals who renovate old houses and decide they are now “property developers”. We need entrepreneurs and people with the drive and vision needed to restore Marbella to its former golden era.

If you know of anyone who is making a difference in Marbella’s new business climate – even yourself! – contact Andy Clark: andy@societylivingmagazine.com Next month: Javier Peromingo – founder of the Triple AAA animal refuge.

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NEWS UPDATE

Noticeboard

ROUND-UP OF BUSINESS, CHARITY, CULTURAL AND OTHER GENERAL NEWS FROM THE COSTA DEL SOL AND ELSEWHERE IN SPAIN

GUARNERI TEAM PODIUM FINISH FOR YOUNG RACING DRIVER Sixteen-year-old Salvador Tineo gained another podium finish when the fifth leg of the Mini Challenge Spanish Championship was held at the Jerez racetrack. A member of the Guarnieri Team, and from Benahavis, the young driver finished fourth but was elevated to third when the second-placed driver was disqualified.

More information: guarnieri.es

HOTEL SELENZA ESTEPONA SUPERMODEL VISIT… AND NEW DIRECTOR Argentinean supermodel Valeria Mazza and her family checked out the Selenza Thalasso & Spa during a visit to the Costa del Sol last month. Valeria is involved in a hotel project in Punta del Este (Uruguay) which will be managed by the Selenza hotel chain Selenza Thalasso & Spa has also announced the appointment of a new medical director, Dr Francisco MartínezPeñalver, a surgeon and internal medicine specialist.

Extending over 2.000 square metres, Selenza Thalasso & Spa is a vanguard facility – said to be the largest of its kind in Andalucía – that brings water directly from the sea, 400 metres away.

More information: selenzahoteles.es w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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NEWS UPDATE turned over, depositing the driver on the ground. She panicked and ran blindly over a main road and crashed into a wall, badly injuring herself. For this her owner asked the vet to destroy her, not because of her injuries but because she had destroyed his carriage. The vet refused and thankfully she has found a home with the centre.

The third was Esperanza, a young filly who was very nervous after being mistreated and starved. She will take a long time to regain her trust in humans.

If any of these pull on your heartstrings, contact Kevin on Tel. 951 170 825 or visit haciendahorses.com.

COSTA PETS LOOKING FOR A HOME We are pleased to offer space in these pages to Costa associations looking after and trying to find homes for abandoned or mistreated animals. If you would like news or contact details for your association included in this section, email: editorial@societylivingmagazine.com ABANDONED PUPPIES ADANA is a small charity that has been rescuing, re-homing and caring for abandoned dogs in the Estepona area since 1989. It is currently caring for over 150 dogs at the headquarters in Los Pedregales Park and has seen a steadily increasing stream of unwanted animals left at its door since the economy took a downturn.

Dusty (above) is one of five puppies found in a bin at the entrance to the park. Each of the five is completely different – like a “pick and mix” of puppies! One white, one black and tan, one brown and black… there is a puppy to suit everyone.

Uppa (below) is a dainty, black and tan German Shepherd who has been in the shelter for two years. It is time she found a home! Michelle (above right) is a mediumsized, female water dog cross. These dogs do not moult and therefore are excellent for people who suffer from allergies.

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If you are looking to adopt one of these dogs, or any other animals, contact ADANA on Tel. 952 113 467 or visit adana.es.

BUSINESS SUPPORT Following a series of break-ins at the ADANA kennel, thieves stole the office computer – which is vital for logging new arrivals and keeping track of vaccinations and medical treatments. A local property management and rental firm, HomeCareontheWeb, provided them with a replacement computer and programmes, and also offered other support. Noted Tony Sidebottom, founder of HomeCareontheWeb, “We actually got our rescue dog, Charlie, from the charity five years ago, and so it was great to be able to give something back for how well they looked after him in the months he was there, as well as for all the other dogs in their care.

We shall try to help the charity as much as we can in the future and would like to urge other businesses to do the same.”

HORSES RESCUED Hacienda Horses is a non-profit making equestrian centre situated between the towns of Estepona and Casares. Kevin Smithson organises treks through the surrounding mountains for keen riders and also rescues and cares for unwanted horses. Recently, he rescued three horses that were about to be slaughtered. The first was Margarita, a seriously underweight mare.

The second was Cherry, a beautiful little pony. Cherry’s only “crime” was that the carriage she was pulling

GOLF AND MARATHON The Malaga Animal Protection Society (MAPS) is holding its final charity golf day of 2010 at El Chaparral on 19 November. The cost is €55, which includes a shared buggy and a buffet lunch. As well as prizes, there will be a charity auction/raffle. MAPS has also reserved 50 places for runners who would like to participate in the first Málaga Marathon on 6 December. All runners will be given a MAPS running shirt and will be invited to run as part of the charity while raising money through sponsorship.

More information: Tel. 689 604 966 (Rachelle); admin@mapss.eu / sales@mapss.eu; mapss.eu III Other associations: ANBAD: anbad.wordpress.com FAMA: f-a-m-a.net SEPE: sepeonline.net SIEMPRE CONTIGO ROTA: siemprecontigoprotectora.org SOS: sos-animals.org TRIPLE A: aaahelps.com

NEWS UPDATE

SNAPSHOTS As it is not always possible to cover every party, launch or general celebration we would like to in our Society pages, the Snapshots section features other events along the coast – and further afield. If you would like your special occasion featured in the magazine, send us a selection of high-resolution photos and a brief write-up about the event (maximum 50 words), by 10 November (for the December issue) to: editorial@societylivingmagazine.com

ALZHEIMERS SOCIETY DONATION BY FUENGIROLA MASONIC LODGE One of the worthy causes supported by the Fuengirola Masonic Lodge is the Alzheimer’s Society, which is currently working on providing a newly

constructed facility in the Fuengirola area to cater for increased demand. Ian Hunter is pictured presenting a cheque for €2,000 to the society’s director.

POLYNESIAN’S BAR RESTAURANT EXOTIC END-OF-SUMMER PARTY About 120 guests marked the end of summer with a lavish party at Polynesian’s Cocktail Bar Restaurant, featuring a welcome with traditional flower necklaces handed out by hula hula dancers, tribal music dances from the South Pacific and a special menu designed for the occasion.

ZUMBA FOR CHARITY SOROPTIMIST CLUB SUPPORTS MOLDOVA CAUSE Members of the Soroptimist International Club Costa del Sol raised ?905 for Moldova at a Zumba for Charity event in Mijas. The money raised will go towards initiatives aimed at preventing human trafficking from Moldova, by providing life-skill education and sustainable living conditions for vulnerable children. w w w. s o c i e t y l i v i n g m a g a z i n e . c o m

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IN THE STARS

In the stars ... with Russell Grant SAGITTARIUS

SCORPIO

November 23rd – December 21st

October 24th – November 22nd

CELEBRITY SCORPIO Bo Derek

Born 20 November 1956 in Long Beach, California Perhaps still best known for her co-starring role in 10, a Blake Edwards film that propelled her to international stardom and sex symbol status, Bo Derek began a relationship with director John Derek when she was 16 and he was 30 years older – they married in 1976 and remained together until his death in 1998.

Her film career was mostly inauspicious, perhaps hampered by the fact her beauty overshadowed her acting.

She owns Andalucian horses and is a spokeswoman for the Animal Welfare Institute.

An inspired idea for a business is worth developing as November gets up and running. The 2nd is perfect for being brave and asking someone for a date. Your pulling power draws admiring glances from every corner on or around the 6th. Your powers of perception attract an admirer near the 7th but you might choose to play for time and not commit yourself. The 15th prompts you to champion the underdog; don't be afraid to stand on principle this fateful day. Beware of pushing a sensitive relative past the breaking point in the days surrounding the 18th. Put your personal stamp on a creative project on the 19th; this is a great time to modernise traditional techniques.

The days surrounding the 20th are ideal for negotiating a raise or landing a lucrative job. The 21st is perfect for getting engaged or married, or forming a business partnership. Don't try to buy somebody's affection on the 25th. Offering a relative financial assistance is the best thing you can do on or around the 27th. A disagreement over values could put strain on a close relationship near the 28th. Your sex appeal soars as November draws to a close.

Money is a powerful aphrodisiac on the 1st.

Cash negotiations or property deals are favoured at the start of November. The 6th gives you a divine chance to rest, relax and rejuvenate. Investing in some home office equipment is favoured around the 7th.

People will be more receptive to your ideas starting on the 8th; take this opportunity to promote your pet projects. Encourage a friend to make a bold move in the days surrounding the 15th.

The 18th favours a business partnership with an older, experienced friend. Relatives offer to relieve you of chores around the 19th, allowing you some much-needed private time. Be sure to follow medical advice to the letter in the days surrounding the 20th. Finishing a work assignment on or around the 21st helps you spend more time at home. Family may not have much sympathy for your ideas on or around the 25th. The 27th favours writing projects of all kinds. Beware of goading an irritable family member on the 29th. The 30th begins a period of seclusion; it's a relief to scale back your social schedule.

Horoscopes CAPRICORN December 22nd – January 20th A powerful attraction could develop between you and a friend near the 1st.

Taking a short trip for pleasure is favoured on or around the 4th. Take a short trip to visit a friend in the days surrounding the 6th. Pooling your resources on the 7th will enable you to afford an expensive luxury item. Hone your diplomatic skills in the days surrounding the 8th; offering good public relations could land you a promotion. Working behind the scenes gives you a greater measure of freedom in the middle of the month so that's the time to push your plans.

The 18th favours extending an olive branch toward a neighbour or sibling.

Brushing up on your computer skills around the 19th will help you land a better-paid job. Someone could confide a deep, dark secret on the 20th; hold it close to your heart. A love affair reaches an exciting turning point around the 21st; an engagement or marriage could be in the cards. Try to overcome your fears about public speaking in the days surrounding the 25th. Doing some freelance work after hours could put extra money in your pocket near the 27th.

PISCES

ARIES

January 21st – February 19th

February 20th – March 20th

March 21st – April 20th

Someone at work could be harbouring a secret crush on you around the 1st. The 4th helps you make money doing something you really love. A fabulous career opportunity becomes available on or around the 6th, bringing in a welcome influx of cash. Propose a new product or service to your boss near the 7th, when people will be receptive to your ideas.

You'll be able to spend more time with friends in the days surrounding the 8th. The 15th is ideal for negotiating a rise, promotion or new position.

Being tougher at work on the 18th will help you climb the ladder of success. Invest in a new computer, PDA or mobile phone in the days surrounding the 19th. The 20th is perfect for attending a wild party. A real estate deal comes to a satisfying conclusion near the 21st, and it looks as if you'll turn a tidy profit. Stand up for your beliefs with a pushy friend on the 28th. A glamorous work assignment could be handed to you at the end of November, but will you be happy to accept it?

Knowing people in high places on the 1st will put you in the lap of luxury. Make suggestions for improving a stuffy institution in the days surrounding the 4th.

An opportunity to write, travel or study could fall into your lap around the 6th, helping you to widen your horizons. The 7th is ideal for planning a last-minute trip; you're sure to find some great airfares and hotel rates. Your sex appeal soars in the days following the 8th.

Your boss praises your resourcefulness during the middle of November, but you'll have to be up front and honest about your lack of experience on the 18th, or you could be put in an embarrassing situation.

You'll be able to get some specialised training on or around the 19th. The 20th is ideal for going on a job interview. A new mobile, computer or PDA puts you in closer contact with your nearest and dearest in the days surrounding the 21st. Don't let your boss interfere with your personal life around the 29th. Opportunities to broaden your mind and extend your thinking abound as November ends.

The 1st results in a passionate encounter, if you're so inclined. Trust your instincts when it comes to an intense partnership on the 4th.

You'll embark on a new chapter to your love life around the 6th, thanks to an attentive admirer. A surprise rendezvous is just what the doctor ordered around and about the 7th. A close personal relationship becomes much sweeter on the 8th; perhaps the two of you should plan a vacation together. A close friend opens your eyes to new possibilities on the 15th. Keep your financial information under lock and key on the 18th.

If you're looking for love, think of joining an online dating service on the 19th. Learning a few words of a foreign language around the 20th will soon come in handy. A cheque or payment finally arrives on the 21st, allowing you a greater measure of financial freedom.

Resist talking about private matters like religion and politics on the 25th. Ask a friend to write you a letter of recommendation on the 27th. Don't betray a friend's secret on the 28th. Someone could try to convert you to their point of view on the 29th, which could prompt an irritable outburst. A friend or lover could give you a luxurious present on the 30th.

AQUARIUS

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IN THE STARS

Horoscopes In the stars ... with Russell Grant TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

LEO

April 21st – May 21st

May 22nd – June 21st

June 22nd – July 23rd

July 24th – August 23rd

A legal decision could be rendered near the 1st, enabling you to move on to greener pastures. A close relationship helps you realise a cherished dream near the 6th. An unusual business alliance will be very profitable on the 7th. Set up a retirement, savings or college account in the days surrounding the 8th. Money from an investment allows you to find work that is more fulfilling near the 15th.

The 18th is ideal for improving your professional skills, especially in the area of business management. Abandon yourself to romance on the 19th. Sexy talk gets your blood racing in the days surrounding the 20th. The results of a self-improvement project will be impressive on the 21st. Don't be swayed by a manipulative person's charms near the 25th. The 27th is good for negotiating more vacation time. Keep your personal information under lock and key around the 28th as a means to guard against identity theft. A narrow-minded bigot could get a piece of your mind on the 29th. Let a loved one pamper you near the 30th.

A sexy encounter makes you feel like a million dollars on the 1st. Suggest an idea for saving money to your boss near the 4th.

An exciting job opportunity arrives near or around the 6th, enabling you to showcase your expertise. You could be given a plum work assignment on the 7th. Devote the 8th to leisurely pursuits; you're long overdue for a break. You radiate good health on the 15th, making you a prime candidate for a public relations position.

A work assignment near the 18th proves confusing; demand clarification. Your job description could be completely overhauled on the 19th, much to your relief. A meeting of the minds with a business or romantic partner occurs near the 20th. The 21st brings an end to a period of loneliness, thanks to a stimulating work assignment. You'll have to make a choice between your personal and professional lives on or around the 25th. Plan a trip on the 27th to a seaside resort. It feels like your boss is picking on you on the 28th; maintain a thick skin. Don't hurry love at the end of the month.

A powerful executive could throw flirtatious glances your way around the 1st. The 4th brings a great opportunity to study a subject you love. A passionate romance could take flower on the 6th. An unexpected travel opportunity could fall into your lap around the 7th. The 8th finds you adding decorative touches to your home. Funding from a religious or cultural institution helps fund a creative project around the 15th.

Resist the urge to buy a youngster or lover's affection on the 18th. Venturing out of your comfort zone near the 19th will put you on the path to romance. Be sure to take a medical professional's advice around the 20th. A group project comes to a successful conclusion on the 21st, leading to a great travel opportunity. Job training will try your patience near the 25th. Establishing healthier habits on the 27th will have immediate results. A lack of experience makes you feel self-conscious at work in the days surrounding the 28th. A pushy colleague gets on your nerves near the 29th. The 30th draws romance into your life, much to your delight.

A relative could give you a generous gift on or around the 1st, making daily life much more pleasant. The 4th is ideal for getting a bank loan, grant or scholarship. The 6th is favoured to buy or sell waterfront property. A meeting of the minds could end in a steamy physical encounter on the 7th. The days surrounding the 8th are ideal for launching an advertising campaign. Your positive outlook attracts a sexy admirer near the 15th.

Don't fool yourself into thinking your family's way is the only way on the 18th. An electric attraction to a rebel will be overpowering in the days surrounding the 19th. Take a calculated risk near the 20th.

You could be given an award, promotion or high-powered job on the 21st, enabling you to travel overseas. Be realistic about your financial future on the 25th; stop racking up debt. The 27th is ideal for collaborating on a film, photography or dance project. A sudden expense near the 28th could become a source of anxiety. Don't hurry a love affair near the 29th.

VIRGO

LIBRA

August 24th – September 23rd

September 24th – October 23rd

Integrating pleasant activities in your daily routine will give you a new lease of life around the 1st. Be sure to compliment a close friend on the progress they've made on the 4th. Taking a class on or around the 6th could culminate in a powerful alliance.

Improve your home office with high-speed equipment on or around the 7th. Short trips to see family are likely in the days surrounding the 8th. A healthy expression of anger feels liberating on the 15th; you can no longer tolerate a relative's oppressive behaviour.

Let a family member help you find a job on or around the 18th. The 19th is perfect for pursuing the object of your affection; try setting yourself apart from your rivals.

Be forceful with a relative near the 20th; or he'll never learn his lesson. A legal decision could be rendered near the 21st, strengthening your bond with a friend, spouse or business partner. The 28th finds you having to clean up someone else's mess. Stop hiding your true feelings from a romantic or business partner on the 29th.

A flirtatious conversation on the 1st stirs some powerful desires. You'll be able to negotiate a much higher budget for a work project on or around the 4th. More money starts coming in around the 6th, making the pace of daily life much more luxurious. The 7th is ideal for buying home office equipment, a PDA or a home entertainment system. You're more attractive than ever in the days surrounding the 8th; use this golden period to lure a lover into your web of passion. Your positive attitude helps you land an impressive job on or around the 15th.

Getting financial support for a business venture is possible on or around the 19th.

Favourable publicity is coming your way near the 21st; get ready for your close up.

Unrealistic thinking about your daily routine could take a toll on your health around the 25th. A child, lover or creative project gives you an optimistic outlook on the 27th. Don't let an inflated ego affect your work performance the 29th. More money for luxuries becomes available at the end of the month; take this opportunity to buy some beautiful clothes, furniture and artwork.

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